Issue 12

Issue 12

February 2013

Syria Crisis Rabia al Basri Self-Harm & Suicide Iraq 10 years On

Green-Eyed Jealousy MOMO Awards Prophet Muhammed (pbuh) Shaista Gohir MBE

Stained glass panel by artish Huda

Awad

www.hudaawad.com

Fifteen21 inspires young Muslims to be proud of their British Muslim identity. The name Fifteen21 is derived from both the 15th century of the Islamic Hijri year and the 21st century of the Common era. Fifteen21 aims to reconcile both Muslim and British identity.

Designed by Hafizur Rahman All views are of the authors alone and not necessarily of those held by Fifteen21

Guest Editorial Aisha Iqbal Dear Readers Asalamu Alaykum!

There are approximately 3 million Muslims in the United Kingdom, who not only silently contribute towards the economic growth of our nation but who have inspired, motivated and made an everlasting mark on this country. Think of the Muslim sports personalities, business entrepreneurs, academics, activists, politicians and think of yourself too. Why? Because making a difference doesn’t always mean you have to move a mountain in the process, win a medal or win anything for that matter.

Simple everyday gestures of kindness, charity and love can make all the difference to another person’s life and

their opinion of us and our blessed faith. In March, we will see the 20th anniversary of Islam Awareness Week.

This is Islam’s time to shine and our time to share with others who Muslims are and how we have positively shaped the British landscape.

“Whoever works righteousness, man or woman, and has faith, verily, to them will We give a new Life, a life that is good and pure, and We will bestow on such their reward according to the best of their actions.”

(Qur’an 16: 97) Whilst we rejoice in the many positive contributions Muslims have made in the UK, Issue 12 also reminds us of the work that is still to be done and the duty on our shoulders to serve

the people around us. In this issue we continue with Young Minds discussing self-harming & suicide. We will also explore the trials and tribulations of being a teenager, compare notes on the lives of Prophet Yusuf and Prophet Mohammed (peace be upon them both) and be inspired by poetry from Rabia al Basri. To mark International Women’s Day on 8th March we speak to activist Shaista Gohir MBE, in addition to book reviews, recipes and the Islamic tartan on page 40!

As always, this edition is fun packed and bursting with knowledge. Please remember all the volunteers of this magazine in your prayers but most importantly, enjoy the read!

Contents 6-7 8 9 10-11 12 13 14-17 18-20 21 22-23 24-25 26-27 28-29 30 31 32-33 34 35 36-37

Prophets of Islam: Prophet Yusuf (AS) (Part 2) One Hundred Less One: Al-Jabbar: the Compeller Muslim Youth Helpline Muslim Heritage: Rabia al Basri Help! I’m a Teenager! Parents Child Line Young Minds: Self Harm and Suicide Hello my name is Alexandra Child Line Self Harm & Suicide in Islam Deed of the Month: Green-Eyed Jealousy Healthy Living: First Steps Hadith: Modesty Dua: Seeking Safety in Allah Fifteen21 Syria: History Repeating Itself MOMO Awards Muslim Youth Helpline Peace Day Winners!

38-39 40 41 42 43 44-45 46 47 48-49 50-53 54-55 56 57 58 59 60-61 62-63 64 65

Islam Awareness Week Islam in Scotland Islam: Not What You Think Conference EdUK8: Recruiting Students Now! Young Muslim Leadership Program A Day in the Life of…Prophet Muhammed (SAW) Nominate a Role Model!

In The Next Issue…

Organisation Profile: Stop the War Coalition Muslim Role-Models: Shaista Gohir MBE Food for the Soul Masjids around the World Child Line Book Review: The Black Cat Detectives Trees 4 Life Poetry Recipes: Spiced Fruit Bread National Events Child Line

24

32

28

50 10

62

In prison, Prophet Yusuf (AS) developed friendly relations with many prisoners.

One day two prisoners came up to the Prophet and asked him to interpret their dream. One saw that he was pressing wine and another saw he was carrying a basket on his head and that birds were eating from it. Prophet Yusuf (AS) interpreted the dreams as narrated in the Qur’an.

“O my two fellow-prisoners! As for one of you, he will pour out wine for his Lord to drink; and as for the other, he will be crucified so that the birds will eat from his head. Thus is the case judged concerning which ye did inquire.” (Qur’an 12: 41)

One day, the King of Egypt dreamt that seven fat cows were eaten by seven thin cows and he also saw seven green ears of corn and seven that were dry. He was very concerned about this dream but no one could tell him what it meant. The wine server heard about the dream and he remembered when Prophet Yusuf (AS) interpreted his dream in prison and also that he forgot to tell his master of the Prophet’s (AS) innocence.

The wine server approached the King and got permission to see the Prophet (AS). Prophet Yusuf (AS) interpreted the dream. He said that there would be seven years of rich harvest in the country from which they should store as much as The dreams of both men came true. One possible, for following this would be seven was hanged and the other was released. years of famine. The King ordered that When the one who was released was Prophet Yusuf (AS) be brought before him leaving, Prophet Yusuf (AS) told him to tell so that he could make use of his wisdom. his master of his innocence when he saw However, the Prophet (AS) refused to him. However, the wine server forgot and leave prison until his innocence was the Prophet (AS) remained in prison for proved. The King made enquiries and many more years. found that he indeed was innocent and

6

Prophets of Islam:

Prophet Yusuf (AS) (Part 2)

Azizun Nessa

therefore he was released from prison with his dignity and honour restored.

When the King met Prophet Yusuf (AS), he was impressed with his nobility and intelligence. He wanted to give him a high position in government and as the Prophet (AS) requested he made him in charge of food and finance as the director of stores. Prophet Yusuf (AS) started his duties immediately and started preparing for the famine. He became a powerful man.

When the drought and famine came, Egypt did not face a shortage of food, thanks to Prophet Yusuf’s (AS) work. The famine spread to Palestine and Canaan where Prophet Ya’qub (AS) lived with his sons.

Word had got to them that there was food available in Egypt. Prophet Ya’qub (AS) kept Binyameen for company and sent his other sons to Egypt to buy grain.

gave them a fair price on what they bought.

He told them that if they come back they should bring their other brother with them.

On their return home the brothers related what happened to their father and spoke of the generosity and hospitality of Prophet Yusuf (AS). On opening the sacks they were surprised to find their money in it. Once they were out of grain the brothers had to go back to Egypt but they knew they could not go without Binyameen. Prophet Ya’qub (AS) refused for him to go because he did not want the same to happen to him as Prophet Yusuf (AS). Eventually, they convinced him and they went to Egypt with Binyameen.

On reaching Egypt, they went straight to the store house where Prophet Yusuf (AS) was and introduced Binyameen to him. Prophet Yusuf (AS) was so pleased to see him. Once he got him alone he revealed his identity to him but requested that he kept this to When the brothers arrived in Egypt, Prophet himself.

Yusuf (AS) recognised them but they did not recognise him. He enquired about the family Find out what happens next in Issue 13! and was pleased to learn that his father was still alive. He showed kindness to them and

AS alayhi salaam Upon him/her be peace RA radhi allah anha May Allah (SWT) be pleased with her

SWT subhanahu wa taala Glorious is He and He is Exalted

support us by joining our page on www.facebook.com/fifteen21magazine

7

One Hundred Less One: Al-Jabbar: the Compeller Allah (SWT) is Al-Jabbar; the Compeller, Allah (SWT) says in the Holy Quran: the One who commands His Will with independence and authority in every Allah is He, than whom single matter. No other Will prevails There is no other god, over His; and nothing can escape The Sovereign, the Holy One, His grasp. Allah (SWT) is therefore The Source of Peace (and Perfection) the Absolute Compeller who compels The Guardian of Faith, everything but nothing compels Him. The Preserver of Safety, That is to say: whatever Allah (SWT) The Exalted in Might, has decreed is final and no-one can The Irresistable, the Supreme challenge that which He has decreed.

Glory to Allah (High is He) Above the partners They attribute to Him. (Qur’an 59: 23)

SWT – subhanahu wa taala Glorious is He and He is Exalted

And in order to do this one must reject all other dispositions that are based on false impulses and become mindful of Allah’s (SWT) hand in everything even in things that may appear catastrophic and distressing to us.

In learning the meanings of the Beautiful Names of Allah (SWT) we can come to internalise the magnitude of Allah’s (SWT) power although the very nature of His infinite power means that we can never grasp His attributes completely.

Nevertheless, contemplating on the Beautiful Names of Allah (SWT) causes To compel means to act or endure with us to develop an insight into our own overwhelming pressure. For example, nature and the dependency we have for the prick of a needle from a doctor can a Being greater than anything we know bring about anxiety and discomfort but to watch over us, to guide us and to we are compelled to endure this short compel us to continue to reject falsehood pain because we know that it is good for when it is present in our hearts and let us.

Allah’s (SWT) Will prevail over all.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 8 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 Shanaz Ali

Much of what we know about Rabia al Basri (713 – 801) comes from Farid uddin Attar, a later sufi saint and poet.

Rabia herself left no written records.

It is said that when Rabia was born there wasn’t a single item in her father’s house, for her father was very poor. He didn’t even have a drop of oil to anoint her navel; there was no lamp, and not a blanket to wrap her in. Rabia was his fourth daughter.

himself that he would never ask anyone for anything so he went over to the neighbours, knocked so gently that they didn’t hear and returned home to tell his wife that the neighbours didn’t answer.

That night the Prophet (SAW) appeared to him in a dream and told him, ‘Your newly born daughter is a favourite of the Lord, and shall lead many Muslims to the Path of Deliverance.

You should approach the Amir of Basra and present him with a Rabia’s mother asked letter in which should her father to go over to be written this message, their neighbours and ask ‘You offer Darood to them for oil so that she the Holy Prophet (SAW), could light the lamp but one hundred times every her father had promised night and four hundred 10

times every Thursday night. However, since you failed to observe the rule last Thursday, as a penalty you must pay the bearer four hundred dinars.’’

Hazrat Rabia’s father got up and went straight to the Amir, with tears of joy rolling down his cheeks. The Amir was delighted on receiving the message and knowing that he was in the eyes of the Prophet (SAW). He distributed in gratitude one thousand dinars to the poor and paid with joy four hundred to Rabia’s father and requested her father to come to him whenever he needed anything as he would benefit from

Muslim Heritage

Rabia al Basri

being visited by someone so dear to the Lord (SWT).

that he kept such a pious soul as a slave, he set her free.

Rabia went into the desert to After her father’s death, pray and became an ascetic. there was a famine in Basra, Unlike many sufi saints she during which Rabia is thought did not learn from a teacher to have parted from her or master but turned to Allah family and started travelling (SWT) Himself. with a caravan. One day the caravan was robbed and She did not possess much Rabia was abducted by the other than a broken jug, a robbers and sold into slavery. rush mat and a brick, which she used as a pillow. She Her master worked her hard, spent all night in prayer and but at night after finishing contemplation, chiding herself her chores Rabia would turn if she slept for it took her to meditation and prayers away from her active love of and praising the Lord (SWT). Allah (SWT).

Foregoing rest and sleep she spent her nights in prayer As her fame grew many and she often fasted during prominent people would the day. come to discuss religion with her. She had many offers One day the master of the of marriage. It is said the house saw her praying. There Amir of Basra also proposed was a divine light enveloping but she refused them as she her as she prayed. Shocked had no time in her life for

anything other than Allah (SWT).

More interesting than her absolute asceticism, however, is the actual concept of Divine love that Rabia introduced. She was the first to introduce the idea that Allah (SWT) should be loved for Allah’s (SWT) own sake, not out of fear, as earlier Sufis had done.

Rabia was in her eighties when she died, having followed the mystic Way to the end. By then, she was continually united with her Beloved. As she told her Sufi friends, ‘My Beloved is always with me’.

Shabina Bi-Baroo

Rabia’s Prayer “O Allah! If I worship You for SAW fear of Hell, burn me in Hell, sallAllahu alay-hi wa-sallam and if I worship You in hope May Allah (SWT) honor him of Paradise, exclude me from and grant him peace Paradise.

But if I worship You for Your SWT Own sake, subhanahu wa taala grudge me not Your Glorious is He and He is everlasting Beauty.”

Exalted

support us by joining our page on www.facebook.com/fifteen21magazine

11

Help! I’m a Teenager!

Parents

Earlier this evening I returned from Glasgow where I attended a course on ‘Protect this House’ with my family. This is about family ties and kinship; how to treat your parents, how husbands and wives should be with each other, showing respect and love to siblings and extended family members. There are two things I want to highlight, firstly going to an Islamic course is probably the last thing on any teenagers mind, but I have to say I have attended a few Al-Maghrib courses, the teaching methods are very creative and the Sheikhs are fun and understand the ‘youth of today’. These courses are for everyone and I recommend you find out about one in your area and attend!

Second point, this course ‘Protect this 12

House’ has taught me the importance of my family. It should already be obvious but we don’t understand until you hear it from someone else who is not a family member.

Main topic was the all important ‘how to treat your parents’. I was dreading this as I knew my mum would be quoting the Sheikh ‘remember what the Sheikh said about this and that...’.

But whether you dread it or not its only the truth. They have many rights over you and we need to realise their

Khurram Azad

importance and the importance of their words. They say all this stuff because, let’s face it, they know best: they’ve been around the block and DO NOT want us to make the same mistakes. I heard that ‘silly kids learn from their own mistakes but clever kids learn from other people’s mistakes!’ Wow this really shook me. There’s people making mistakes all the time around us and we should learn from their experiences instead of making our own mistakes.

Fact; Making your parents happy is the easiest way to please Allah (SWT), better get the kitchen cleaned!

SWT subhanahu wa taala Glorious is He and He is Exalted

Young Minds:

Self Harm and Suicide What is self harm?

as not every person who harms (NICE) has outlined other themselves has contact with groups in society that may The Royal College of health services. be more prone to self harm, Psychiatrists describe self harm including people with learning as when someone hurts or Some groups of people can be disabilities, and prisoners; as harms themselves. at a higher risk than others: many as 10% of whom will How common is self harm?

• Girls and young women self harm during their term.

• Young people aged between Research also suggests that The rates of self harm in the 15 and 25 years old drinking a lot of alcohol can UK have increased in the • People who live in residential significantly increase the risk of past decade and are one of care or secure institutions self harm in young people who the highest in Europe (Royal • Gay, bisexual, transgender are already feeling stressed College of Psychiatrists, men and women or depressed; up to half of 2010). The ‘Truth Hurts’ report • Asian women people who are seen in A&E identified that around 1 in 12 • People who are dependent following self-harm will have children self-harm, and this on alcohol or street drugs. used alcohol. accounts for roughly 200,000 admittances to hospital each Overall, women are more Why? year. likely to self-harm than People are more likely to self men - this is most evident in There is also a suggestion that harm when they are in a highly adolescence. The National the actual number of people emotional state and feel in Institute of Clinical Excellence who self harm may be higher distress. A person may have 14

been struggling for some time before they begin to harm themselves. Some reasons why include: • Physical or sexual abuse • Relationship issues • Work related issues eg unemployment • Not feeling listened to • Feeling - isolated or alone - hopeless - out of control - powerless - depressed - bad about self Most people who self-harm usually suffer in silence, and harm themselves in private.

Those who self harm, have

reported the act helps them to feel in control and can relieve uncomfortable feelings of distress. However in the long term, regular self-harm, can lead to feeling out of control and helpless as the individual struggles to find alternative ways of coping. It can also act as a form of punishment if the person feels guilty for something that has happened.

than the general public. It has also been reported that 20-25% of people who die by suicide have presented to a general hospital after episodes of self harm in the year before death.

is seen more evidently in young people aged 15-25 years old, Some of the changes that could and suicide is the leading killer contribute to suicidal thoughts of this age group. could be: How common is Suicide?

• Being bullied • Bereavement Approximately 1700 young • Relationship breakdown people (under 35 years old) Self harm is not always an • Family issues ended their life by suicide attempt at suicide despite • Emerging mental health in 2011. However it is it often being termed problems e.g. depression suggested this figure is largely ‘parasuicide’. In fact often • Exam pressure underestimated. people who deliberately harm • Illness – physical & mental Why? Self harm and Suicide themselves are not always • Drugs & alchohol aware of the dangers of what Suicidal thoughts can develop • Abuse – physical, sexual, Although someone who selfthey are doing and therefore due to a number of changes emotional harms may not necessarily do not intend to kill themselves, in a young person’s life. The • Sexuality become suicidal, self harm is however self-harm still pressure to accommodate and • Cultural issues known to be a risk factor in maintains to be a contributing adapt to these changes can • Fear subsequent attempted suicide. factor to suicide. Both self harm sometimes exceed the limit • Financial issues People who deliberately harm and suicide may appear to be of their resilience and coping themselves have a risk of closely linked due to the age skills. suicide some 100 times greater groups they affect. Self harm Continued on page 16

15

How can we tell?

Individuals who feel suicidal often struggle to tell someone about how they are feeling.

Often they report not wanting to burden anyone with their problems, not wanting to upset anyone, or feeling that they do not deserve help. However there are verbal/behavioral warning signs that can be visible to others, which could indicate suicidal feelings.

Some of the verbal indicators could be: • I just can’t go on • I want it all to stop • I hate myself • I want to go to sleep & not wake up 16

• It’s all too much • I can’t see the point of anything anymore • I just want to get away from everything • I’m feeling so low Some of the behavioural indicators could be: • Loss of interest in usual activities • Loss of energy • Changes in appetite, weight, appearance • Change in sleep patterns • Making negative comments about self • Talking, writing or hinting about suicide or death • Giving away personal possessions • Loss of libido

• Increasing self harm, changes in self harm • Withdrawing/isolating self If these changes can be seen, this is an invitation to ask how they are and whether they are suicidal. Asking someone if they are suicidal will not induce suicidal feelings.

Where to get help Often an individual may appear to feel down, and then suddenly appear to be extremely positive and ‘better’.

Sometimes individual’s will plan how to end their life, and when they have done this, they appear more positive because they know themselves they have decided when to end their life.

If you are having thoughts of suicide, or perhaps know someone who could be, it is recommended you speak with your local doctor. Your doctor can discuss treatment options such as medication, or various forms of counseling, as well as putting you in touch with your local crisis team and/or Mental Health team.

PAPYRUS Prevention of Young Suicide run a helpline known as HOPELineUK which takes calls from any young person (under 35) concerned about themselves or someone concerned about a young person they know. We can help talk through practical ways of keeping safe, look up organizations which can help you with your suicidal thoughts and/or the contributing factors in your life and support you through this difficult time.

To find what help is available in your area you can contact HOPELineUK run by PAPYRUS Prevention of Young Suicide.

Youth Access also has a directory of free counselling

and advice for young people www.youthaccess.org.uk

Family and friends

someone concerned about a young person they know in the UK. It is run by mental health professionals who can safely advise you about how and where to seek help.

HOPELineUK is confidential however we will always intervene if a life is in danger.

Family and friends can be We would recommend you of great support in helping speak with your doctor who people cope with suicidal may discuss the option of feelings and the contributing medication and also may refer factors you are facing in you to specialist professionals life. HOPELineUK is open to like psychiatrists, psychologists, anyone concerned about a and counselors. It may not be young person they know, and possible to access this support our experience shows support Helpline Contact Details without seeing a doctor. If from friends and family can HOPELineUK FREEPHONE you feel that you cannot talk really help people to cope and 0800 068 4141, SMS to your usual doctor, you can recover as well as receiving 07786 209 697, and email usually see another doctor in professional help and advice.

Pat@papyrus-uk.org Monday the same practice or you can Help from PAPYRUS to Friday 10:00am–5:00pm talk to someone else in the and 7:00pm–10:00pm, PAPYRUS’s helpline, surgery, such as a nurse or Saturday and Sunday health visitor. You can contact HOPELineUK is available 2:00pm–5:00pm. for confidential short-term NHS Direct for details about other doctors and how to move support, practical advice Rosemary Vaux to another practice or speak to and information for a young Papyrus suicidal person (under 35) or us at HOPELineUK. www.papyrus-uk.org 17

a r d n a

then I couldn’t see anything past my scars and dark thoughts. Self harm is still a relatively unspoken about subject with Most school age teenagers will many young people simply labelled as automatically class self harming as ‘Emo’ attention seekers. But how wrong those and will see it as attention seeking. The labels are. truth is, most self harmers do self harm Three teenagers self harm every hour as a coping mechanism. It’s their way of in the United Kingdom. That is 72 young ‘Sometimes the words get stuck, sometimes coping when life is getting too much. It people everyday. For me that’s 72 too I can’t scream, I can’t shout, sometimes can be a release, it can be a control, and many. It’s hard to get your mind around my words destroy me’ it can be an escape. In a way it’s also a and I know how difficult it can be to silent cry for help. understand. Even the professionals don’t Cutter, emo, scene, Goth youths, wrist I remember my first day of being known fully understand it. Self harm goes bangers, whatever you call it, they as ‘cutter girl’. I held my arms very against every natural fibre in your body. are all names for self harm. There are protectively listening to the name calling If you’re hurt your body tells you to get many sides to self harm and often the and other abuse being hurled at me. away, to save yourself, yet young people subject can be full of judgement and In high school opening your mouth to are hurting themselves deliberately. controversy. I won’t try to sugar coat it: retaliate to a comment can be the start But let’s look at the bigger picture, it’s not this is self harm in a raw, and no sugar of endless bullying. I was 13. only teenagers that self harm, anyone added description. Self harm is the act Looking back to that girl I can still feel can suffer just as anyone can suffer of inflicting pain on yourself; this can be her pain, her tears and her unhappiness. from a cold. Self harm is a scary word, cutting, burning, self hitting and pulling Today I’m a hard working student with a but self harm can often be the start out your own hair. The self harm which is good job and a loving family. But back to a downward spiral into depression, widely recognised is cutting. sometimes ending in suicide.

x e Al

18

You hear suicide a lot more in the news than you do self harm. Every 18 minutes someone loses their life to suicide and every 43 seconds someone attempts to end their life. There’s a family behind every case, trying to pick up the pieces, trying to answer the biggest question, why? When you get the call that someone you love has left this world, its crushing, I know this personally.

If you see a crying person on the tube, ask if they’re okay, give them a tissue and tell them, life gets better. The kindness of a stranger never fails to amaze me; I’ve been saved by one, so why shouldn’t you save a life? It doesn’t take much, just 3 simple words ‘are you okay?’ You may get a shoulder full of tears or a weak smile but remember you are meant to be here too. Listen to their might be the one to save them, you might cry for help, catch their tears, hug them give them hope. Because we all have one A close family member attempted suicide in the dark times and hold their hand to thing in common, we all feel, we all have a few weeks before Christmas; he was happiness. I may be young but I know this emotions, we all feel pain, and we are in a coma for weeks then 3 days after much, life is precious, it’s full of beauty ALL HUMAN. my birthday he left this world. Suicide is and everyone should have their eyes the permanent solution to a temporary If you’re a self harmer, please I urge opened to it. problem. Once it’s done it’s done, but you to seek help, to speak to someone. there is something we can do to let these Life gets better I promise you. You were people know they are not alone. Never meant to live this life to the full; no one alone. else can play your part. You’re special and amazing and that’s because you are Do me a favour, take a breath. A big you. lung filling breath, feel that? That’s life flooding into your lungs, its filling your If you’re a parent or guardian or if you body, it means you’re alive. It means you find someone is self harming, speak to were meant to be here. Surely we should them in a non-judgemental way; leave tell these young people that they your judgements at the door. Urge them support us by joining our page on www.facebook.com/fifteen21magazine

19

to seek the help they need, encourage them to speak up but don’t press them for answers; they may be fighting demons deep down inside. Try not to be angry, although you may be upset and angry, remember this is their cry for help, this is a last resort when really they don’t know what to do. They need you more than ever, give them support and love.

I’ve been on both sides of the fence, I’ve been a friend who’s found out someone I love is self harming and I’ve been the self harmer myself. This year I turn 18, and I’m getting help to fully recover.

Baby steps, one foot at a time. I still speak to my uncle you know, and I still have his number saved on my phone, It’s a reminder that life is precious. I am a survivor.

There are many wonderful organisations out there ready to help young people.

Childline is always on hand to take any young person’s call in their hour of need on 0800 1111.

20

Log onto www.childline.org.uk where you can get support from other young people and advice and information about how to cope if you are affected by self harm.

Remember no matter how dark the night, morning will always come, always.

Alexandra NSPCC Young Ambassador

National Self-Harm Awareness Friday 1st March 2013

Life has its ups and downs You can talk confidentially online or by phone whenever you need to.

Whatever your worry, it’s better out than in.

www.childline.org.uk ChildLine is a service provided by the NSPCC. Registered charity numbers 216401 and SC037717. 7244/11

Self Harm & Suicide in Islam It is a worrying reality that self-harm is a growing phenomenon amongst youngsters. Self-harm can occur when a person is under pressure, is hurt and let down by those close to them and they are not able to put their feelings or emotions into words and this seems the only way to express them.

every person to protect this precious gift from harm and to take care of it in the best way possible.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: ‘Do not harm yourself or injure others’; ‘Do not wish death even on the death bed’ (narrated by al-Bukhari & Muslim).

Self-Harm The majority of people who self-harm do it either as a way of expressing their inner feelings, sometimes called ‘inner scream’, or to express their helplessness, anger and frustration. When these individuals cut themselves, they feel ‘relieved’ and somehow feel more ‘in control’.

Islam forbids a Muslim to harm themselves. Our body belongs to Allah Almighty and is gifted to us for the duration of our lives so that we become its temporary caretaker. It is the duty of 22

This shows that all forms of self-harm are prohibited in Islam. Self-harm may give a person some temporary relief, but it cannot be considered as a serious long-term coping mechanism. Engaging in this type of behaviour aggravates the problem rather than cures it, and can lead to health risks and, more importantly, result in the displeasure of Allah Almighty.

Suicide In extreme cases individuals can reach such a low point in their life that they

see no hope and become overcome with despair. They self-harm with the view to actually ending their life. The Glorious Qur’an reminds us that life should never be taken and we should never despair of Allah’s mercy: ‘And do not kill yourselves.

God is Most Merciful to you’ (Qur’an, 4: 29). It is further stated in the Qur’an: ‘Do not expose yourselves to ruin’ (Qur’an 2: 195). These are reminders from Allah Almighty that even in a person’s darkest hours, He has not forsaken them and His mercy is without limit.

Suicide in particular is considered to be a serious sin in Islam and something all Muslims should keep away from. This is because a person who commits suicide does so because he or she has lost all hope in Allah’s (SWT) help and mercy, whereas at the heart of Islam’s teaching

is the fact that Allah (SWT) is always there for us.

Life’s Struggles The Glorious Qur’an also tells us that ‘Allah does not burden a soul with more than it can bear’ (Qur’an 2: 286). Life is full of trials and tribulations, demands and sacrifices, and requires patience.

Many people go through set-backs, suffer bereavements, experience loss of wealth, loss of health, loss of status and shattered dreams. Life is full of many struggles; spiritual struggles, educational struggles, moral struggles, matrimonial struggles and financial struggles.

A person who finds themselves turning to self-harm as a mechanism to cope with the challenges in their life should instead engage in the remembrance of Allah (SWT). ‘Indeed, in the remembrance of Allah, hearts find peace’, declares the Qur’an (Qur’an 13: 28). Instead of feeling guilty and ashamed of their actions, they should also seek professional help urgently rather than suffer in silence.

British Muslims, collectively, must also try harder to understand the issues faced by young people from within and outside the community. Young people will not feel engaged with their community if the elders of the community do not try to address and provide guidance on the Turning to Allah challenges affecting the youth. Mosques can lead the way in this regard by Allah (SWT) tells us in the Noble Qur’an addressing ‘sensitive’ issues, such as self‘And we are nearer to him than his harm affecting the youth and provide jugular vein’ (Qur’an, 50: 16). Allah spiritual and practical guidance to both Almighty is always there to help us (i) who may be, unknowingly, causing through our difficulties. All we need to do harm to others and (ii) those that may be is to sincerely turn to Him and face life’s harming themselves. challenges with patience.

Imam Muhammad Asim MBE Leeds Makkah Masjid www.makkahmasjid.co.uk

support us by joining our page on www.facebook.com/fifteen21magazine

23

Deed of the Month: Green-Eyed Jealousy ‘They’ve got it better than I do!’

I call it the ‘grass is always greener’ mindset. It relates to complaining that the neighbours’ gardens, lives or belongings are better than your own and wanting to have the same. Individuals, who have a ‘grass is always greener’ mindset, have a constant belief system that if they get what they desire, they will be happier and if they don’t get it, they grow in hatred against those that have it. Sometimes, astaghfurAllah (may Allah forgive me), they begin to hate their own life. Sadly, most people are well aware and have been in this disastrous mental state, better known as envy and jealousy.

phrases, ‘I need’ and ‘I want’? Need is defined as, ‘requiring something because it is essential or very important or necessary,’ whereas want is defined as, ‘having a desire to possess or do something.’

Clearly, there is an obvious difference between the two! So, why is it so often that we interchange one for the other?

When we refer to ‘needs’ we are talking about important things, without which, we will be in an incredibly bad situation. These needs are meant to be a priority in our lives, in order for us to survive successfully.

In Issue 8, ‘Make Islam Your Rock,’ analyses the necessity of prioritizing our lives in the best way possible. Our first priority, as In order to understand how we fall into this Muslims, is Allah (SWT) and following Islam. state of mind, first, we need to analyse the Following Islam is a need, so is the basic difference between two particular words. amount of water, food, clothing shelter, and What is the difference between the two love. Without these things, we will suffer a great deal. Even within Islam, it guides us

24

to help those who do not have these basic are forgetting the tremendous blessings needs fulfilled and to moderately fulfil that Allah (SWT) has given to us already. our own needs accordingly.

If we attempt to write down every single blessing we have in our life, we could The problem is that when we use ‘I need’ never finish writing our list, Alhamdulillah in place of ‘I want’, envy and jealousy (praise to Allah). So what, if we don’t are bound to take hold. We are warned have the latest and greatest! Our ‘grass’

by Allah (SWT) in the Qur’an, ‘And is already green and we can make it covet not the thing in which Allah hath greener! We have Allah (SWT)! made some of you excel others. Unto men a fortune from that which they have Next time you feel that swelling, seething earned, and unto women a fortune from green-eyed jealousy overtaking your that which they have earned. (Envy thoughts, Allah (SWT) tells us in the not one another) but ask Allah of His Qur’an to ‘Say: I seek refuge with the bounty. Lo! Allah is ever Knower of all Lord of the Dawn, from the mischief things’ (Qur’an 4: 32). However, we are of created things; from the mischief of surrounded by a materialistic society, Darkness as it overspreads; from the which is never satisfied with simplicity. mischief of those who practise Secret Instead, it strives to have the latest and Arts; and from the mischief of the envious greatest, and those who choose simplicity, one as he practises envy’ (Qur’an 113: chance being ostracized. Who wants to 1-5). May Allah (SWT) help us to see and be left out? Nobody! be grateful for the many blessings that have already been bestowed upon us.

So, does this justify allowing jealousy and Ameen envy into our hearts? Absolutely not!

When we have that sense of jealousy, we

Michelle Blum

support us by joining our page on www.facebook.com/fifteen21magazine

25

Healthy Living First Steps

‘When you take the first step, the others will follow on naturally; quickly or slowly, they follow on, they have to! You’ve already taken the first step and Allah (SWT) won’t leave you stranded, you just have to make sure that when it’s your move, you take it.’

Moms are geniuses aren’t they!

I think back to when I decided to start up; no business plan, nor any type of written plan, just a dream and an idea. Then one day on a whim, I registered the company name as I liked it and didn’t want anyone else to have it since all the other names I had in mind were already taken.

26

It then hit me a few days later that I was officially a company director! The paperwork came through too and made it even more real.

Friends (real, genuine friends, not those who get jealous deep down) congratulated me when they found out! Others started to back away… WHAT ON EARTH HAD I DONE?! These words raced through my mind for a while to come.

dormant.

What kind of a next progressive step is this?

Well, this gave me time to do important things; planning, further studying and research for specific aspects, networking, writing, but most importantly, to realise exactly why I wanted to do this and my level of commitment.

Healthy Living Since I had taken this step and come this far (trust me, this was a BIG step), I thought that I might as well give it a go and make something of it. I completed paperwork to HMRC and officially made the company

Make sure that when it’s your move, you take it I met a great person at a networking event. It turned out we had much in common; non-Londoners for a start, both looking for the same venue of faith and

spirituality, great! She knew just the right graphics designer too!

programmes and workshops and of course, Has any of this been easy? Some of it has a Programme Catalogue. Another few but most of it hasn’t. Finances aside, time steps complete! is a precious commodity. One I hardly had When you take the first step, the others but one I made sure I got on evenings and Slowly but surely of course; there was the just follow on naturally weekends. Somehow I managed to complete subject of finances to consider since I’m three short courses and gain qualifications.

So not long after, I had a graphics working for a corporate firm and using designer, a logo plus a range of those funds to fund my passion into a full- How does a person manage this? With the professionally designed stationary to Will; when you have the Will, you will find a time lifestyle. I’m somehow not so keen to check and sign off! Then along came an go for a business loan, not for this stage of Way, just remember: offer of a free professional photography the business anyway. However I do have a You just have to make sure that when it’s shoot! Great, just what I needed! I made business plan in place just in case I decide your move, you take it. my move and contacted the photographer. to apply for one.

The photographer turned out to be a lady To Your Success!

I met once or twice before at arts related events. She also turned out to be a website Saira Nisa is the Founding Director and Creative Business designer.

Coach of Living Wellbeing Ltd | Business & Lifestyle When you take the first step, the others just follow on naturally You know what I did next?! Yes, I started to discuss website designs and now there is a website, Alhamdulillah! The website needed information relating to my Consultancy services, so out came

Management (www.livingwellbeingltd.com), providing Creative Motivational and Business Coaching Workshops for Women of faith and ethnic minorities as well as a Trainer for a London based firm. Saira is also a member of the Institute of Entrepreneurs and Enterprise. Originally from Birmingham, West Midlands, she now spends her time skilfully enjoying juggling family, friends, work and business between Birmingham and London. support us by joining our page on www.facebook.com/fifteen21magazine

27

Hadith Jabir ibn Abdullah (may Allah be pleased with him) narrates the following:

‘I asked Allah’s Messenger sallaAllahu’alayhiwasallam (peace be upon him) about the sudden glance (that is cast) on the face (of a non-mahram). He commanded me that I should turn away my eyes.

(Narrated by Abu Dawood)

In the last two editions we’ve been discussing hayaa’, having modesty, and we lightly touched upon modesty of the eyes. A very well known verse in the Qur’an we often hear at talks and lectures is ‘Tell the believing men… and women to lower their gaze…’

(Qur’an 24: 30-31) and then the speaker goes on to remind us about how important this is and that’s great! Except at times you must think to yourself ‘okay I get that I have to lower my gaze and not look at the opposite gender with lust or bad thoughts, but how exactly is it that I go about doing this?!’

So first let’s talk about the verse.

Do you see how it mentions men AND women? Just like in our last issue we broke the stereotype of

28

modesty being applied to only women, in this issue we break this other stereotype which for some bizarre reason suggests that lowering the gaze applies mainly to men. Clearly from what Allah (glorified and exalted is He) tells us it is an order sent down by our Creator to both genders.

A way of acquiring hayaa’ is for us all to lower our gaze. There is a hadith in which the Prophet sallaAllahu’alayhiwasallam ordered his cousin Ali (RA) and said ‘Ali! Do not look once after another, for the first look is for you (since it happens accidentally) while the second is against you’.

So if your gaze happens to fall on someone of the opposite gender you must then turn away because if you turn to look again then on

#Tip 1 ~ Walk with your eyes down So I’m not saying you stare at the ground so hard that you walk into a lamp post but generally we should keep our eyes lowered. Focus on looking at where your feet are going and from time to time gaze up to make sure you’re safe and also that you’re not bumping into anyone, but try to avoid catching anyone’s eyes, male or female. Training yourself to avoid plain looking around in general is very helpful in teaching us to lower our gaze with the opposite gender.

again because it’s something we all forget too often. Allah (Glorified and exalted is He) is the All-Seeing, All-Knowing. He sees exactly where and what your eyes fall upon. Should it displease Him you have incurred sin. Should it please Him you have incurred rewards.

the people that are grateful to Him and conscious of Him at all times. Ameen.

Finally, we need to always remember that when we abstain from anything for the sake of Allah (SWT), He will make it easy for us. We just need to be patient.

# Tip 3 ~ Increase your worship

#Tip 2 ~ Remember Allah’s names

Generally increasing how much ibadah you do increases your imaan which inevitably draws you closer to Allah (SWT). In drawing closer to Him you begin to love Him more and be more conscious of the blessings He has given you. Once you realize that, it becomes much easier to be an obedient servant to Allah (SWT) as you become aware of His presence but more than that you don’t want to disobey Him out of gratitude to Him (Glorified and Exalted is He).

This is something we mention again and

May Allah (SWT) make us all amongst

“

So I’m not saying you stare at the ground so hard that you walk into a lamp post but generally we should keep our eyes lowered.

“

the Day of Judgment this will be against you, since Allah the Most High will hold you accountable for it. So with these Qur’anic ayahs and hadiths in mind what can you do to help lower your gaze?

Zaynab Amatullah

support us by joining our page on www.facebook.com/fifteen21magazine

29

Dua Seeking Safety in Allah

Qul ‘a’oothu birabbin-naas. Malikin-naas. ‘Ilaahin-naas.

Min sharril-waswaasil-khannaas. Allathee yuwaswisu fee sudoorin-naas. Minal-jinnati wannaas.

Say: I seek refuge with (Allah) the Lord of mankind, the King of mankind , the God of mankind , from the evil of the whisperer who withdraws, who whispers in the breasts of mankind, of jinns and men.

Rumaysa Malik

30

FREE Online Magazine

for Young Muslims of the 21st Century 44

...and much more!

Fifteen21.com

facebook.com/fifteen21magazine

“

Alla ind h (sw e t tim pende ) is e an n GLVWU d p t of UHVW HVV DQG ULFWH l G a LVFR QRUP ce G R P

“

[ DXWR DO HYH \JHQ V IRUW D V U\ DSS PDWLF WK GD\ O XSSO\ D UHVX OW LI < UHFL DWLQ LQJ WKD H EUH HW LQ R RI D X J WK W +XP H E ZH GR WKLQJ L U V D OHVV ZLW $U 5 DQNLQG LQ J WK KRXW Q D DK

1 2 8 3 4 15 9 10 21 16 1 11 12 5 6 7 22 7 1

1SPQIFU )VE "4

t

*O 5IF /FYU *TTVFy

&JE VM 'JUS o 'FTUJWBM PG 'BTU #SFBLJOH t

Muslim Ro le-Models Amir Khan - Boxer

Q 3URPRWLRQ V

UWHV\ RI .KD

3KRWRV &RX

Stories of the Prophets (pbut) Book Reviews & Poetry Inspiring Role Models Muslim Heritage

Syria History Repeating

Itself

Humanity is based on morals, manners and good qualities; so living in the 21st century we believe that we are a humanitarian civilization.

However, over the last 22 months we have seen massacres taking place in Syria.

screen created under the UN peace plan.

The Arab Ba’ath party was founded in 1947 by Michel Aflaq (a Christian), As we mark the second month Salah al-Din al-Bitar (a of 2013, we commemorate Sunni Muslim) and Zaki alone of the most deadliest Arsuzi (an Alawite) under the backlashes of the Syrian core beliefs of secularism, government’s history, the socialism and pan-Arab 1982 Hama massacre. unionism.

Over a two week period The people’s uprising by way an estimated 40,000 of peaceful demonstrations Syrians were slaughtered against the regime has been for speaking out against the answered with mass murders, government; but a tyrannical torture, rape, pillaging, lies leader would have no and slaughter of men, women dialogue with his people, and children throughout the each word was exchanged country. for a bullet killing innocent children, women and men.

The people of Homs ignited the revolution in 2010 which A feeling of déjà vu spread throughout other cities resonates; history repeating in rapid succession. And now, itself after 31 years, so we find, at best, the world where did this regime come ‘observes’ this continual from? bloodshed through a smoke 32

It believed it was a ‘nationalist, populist, socialist, and revolutionary’ party that understood unity and freedom of the Arab nations could be achieved in their homelands.

Over the years the party struggled with megalomaniac leaders which caused many rebellions to take place.

In 1966, Hafez al-Assad, the father of Bashar al-Asaad, led the Syrian coup d’état, consequently military force

was given the upper hand as rule in Syria.

Hafez, in 1970, managed to overpower the President, Nureddin al-Atassi, in a bloodless intra-party coup to gain supremacy which he upheld for three decades.

His era produced an increase in repression, through police informants and secret police (mukhabaraat) and created a big propaganda campaign through curriculum education and state-controlled media.

This legitimised his coup and portrayed al-Assad’s government as a strong, uncorrupted Arab nationalist that was willing to defend against western aggression.

Mr Hafez’s tyrannical rule saw him execute a number of massacres, namely the Siege

of Aleppo, Tel al-Zaatar massacre, the October 13 massacre and in addition to this he was well known to depose of any opponents towards the regime through execution.

of people that was reported killed exceeded 40,000 according to some human rights groups.

Hafez was initially grooming his elder son, Bassel al-Assad for the presidency; but with his unforeseen car accident in 1994, Hafez changed track and began work on Bashar alAssad.

In 1980, the Tadmor prison massacre befell the prisoners in response to a failed assassination attempt by the Muslim Brotherhood, within hours, he mercilessly executed Now, Bashar always said he over 1200 people in their was not one for politics; he cells. studied medicine in Syria and ophthalmology in London.

In 1982, the Hama massacre was executed in response However, his father’s cunning to numerous bombings and plan made sure he was hit-and-runs on high ranking strategically supported by Alawites, Hafez ordered the military and security clout Syrian army, which was led by and impressed on the people his brother General Rifaat al- Bashar’s public image of Assad, to bombard Hama and perfection and leadership terminate the Islamic revolt over the next six years. against his regime which had In 2000, after his father’s begun in 1976. The number death, Bashar was sworn in as

both the leader of the Ba’ath party and as president of Syria. Married and a father of three, in 2007, he was once again voted in as president without a challenger in sight.

Now we find, at the beginning of 2013, Mr Assad still transgressing the boundaries of democracy in the role of an autocrat.

As the people of Hama in 1982 created a revolution, we see today their children doing the same. A new generation bring the same words ‘Freedom for Syria’.

Role models are the epicentre of humanity and are those who teach you what you become. It is through his father’s actions that Bashar has found himself doing as he did; Bashar is truly his father’s son.

Hazma Farooq

support us by joining our page on www.facebook.com/fifteen21magazine

33

A truly spectacular explosion of music and media bought to you by the Founders of the UK’s leading number 1 Nasheed contest ‘SoundOfSouls’.

Promising to be a revolutionary platform for Muslims of the world to come together for the very first time and harmonise through their talent.

the final. The ceremony will be a revolutionary beginning and a much awaited platform to celebrate achievements of Muslims. The MOMO Awards ceremony will showcase present and future stars in the making creating a truly spectacular and dynamic event.

MOMO Awards will be an orchestra of talent synchronised through music and media, celebrating achievements and successes at an exclusive awards ceremony.

MOMO wants you to play the crucial part in nominating artists. Bringing you 22 nomination categories, your votes are central in deciding who the winners are from the Male Solo Nasheed Artist to the International Nasheed Album of the year.

The MOMO Awards ceremony will be hosted by leading music and media celebrities, bringing you a stylish sophisticated finale celebrating the achievements of everyone making 34

MOMO Awards promises to play host to Muslim’s finest, jaw-dropping performances from the cream of

both UK and international talent. This vision will become real through your nominations. The nominations will close on the 31st March 2013.

Play your part in creating history, bringing Muslim talent to the forefront.

Nominate now the unsung heroes for the Music of Muslim Origin & Media Awards 2013.

For nominations and further information on MOMO Awards, visit: www.momoawards.co.uk or contact: info@momoawards.co.uk ‘MOMO is the Orchestra of Harmony bringing Muslim Talent alive’ Esharat Qureshi MOMO Awards

Peace Day Winners!

On International Peace Day 2012 a national art and poetry competition for 7 - 16 year olds was launched, called ‘A Picture of Peace’. There was After much discussion and deliberation, a fantastic response with over 1000 a winner was selected from each entries from schools all over the country. age category. A number of highly commended entries were also selected, The judges were from varied which will also receive a £10 book backgrounds and brought a wide range token each. of experience and expertise to the process.

Winner of KS3 and OVERALL WINNER of the competition was Stella Dixon.

• Luqman Ali - Director, Khayaal Theatre Stella will receive a Kindle for herself Company and has also earned her school a • Abid Hussain - Arts Council England selection of books and other materials • Nafe Anam - Creative Director, A&C for being the overall winner of the Communications Agency competition.

• Catriona Robertson - London Borough Faiths Network Commenting on Stella’s piece, judges • Saba Zaman - Freelance Journalist said: ‘The two children holding hands 36

and the balloons merging together to form the world, was a beautiful illustration of aspiration held by all children taking part. The detail in which the balloon’s individual shadow made way for a uniformed world, with its patches still apparent, is a demonstration of the high level of technique we encountered.’

Stella’s fine and subtle pencil drawing was loved by all the judges and was chosen as overall winner, despite very strong competition.

Rabiha Hannan Islam in Schools

‘Peace by Pen’

Julian Sillet

‘Girl In Poppy Field’

Claudia Joarder

‘Young People with Balloons of the World’

Stella Dixon

support us by joining our page on www.facebook.com/fifteen21magazine

37

11th to 17th March 2013

Have you heard of Islam Awareness Week? If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re at university, then itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s likely that an Islamic Society near you will be organising this kind of thing.

up and down the country. There have been educational events, lectures, debates and exhibitions in town halls, city centres and local libraries. Mosques have been encouraged to open their But did you know that there is a national doors and hold public events for the Islam Awareness Week across the whole week. A dedicated website has been of the UK and that this year marks its established for schools offering a 20th anniversary? range of downloadable resources and volunteers offer workshops or assemblies Like most great ideas, IAW was started in their local schools. by young people at universities in the UK (and in the US) many, many Ramadans ago.

But here in the UK it was expanded to become a national event, encouraging Muslims across the UK to take part in activities that help bring people together, remove misconceptions about each other and work for a better future.

Over the years there have been thousands of events in towns and cities 38

But IAW is also about celebrating art and culture and allowing opportunities for people just to meet others of a different faith socially. Many Muslim communities have organised coffee mornings, lavish dinners, musical concerts or film shows.

An important part of IAW though is about getting people to work together to contribute in their society. For instance volunteers have organised soup kitchens, neighbourhood clean up operations and health awareness campaigns. Many of the social events also raise money for local charities.

As long ago as 2002 IAW commissioned a poll by YouGov on societal attitudes to Islam and Muslims. As a result IAW has received a lot of high profile support from leading national politicians and celebrities who recognise the need

for initiatives that promote social cohesion and mutual understanding.

Key events have taken place in such diverse institutions as the British Library, the Houses of Parliament, the Royal Geographical Society and in the Shakepeare Globe theatre.

Every year IAW has a particular theme that can be used to promote particular issues or partnerships. The themes have been incredibly diverse: ‘Our common heritage’, ‘One world - the myth of the clash’, ‘1,000 years of Islam in Britain’, ‘Neighbours’, ‘Celebrating the Best of Britain’, ‘Living in a Multi-faith society’ and ‘Love’.

This year the theme is all about ‘The things we have in common’.

We all inherently share an essential commonality with our fellow citizens along all of life’s avenues. This theme

will share and celebrate this through our common experiences of life, objects, moments and memories.

So come on, get involved! There are many things that you can do and some ideas are listed on the IAW website: www.iaw.org.uk. So however you can contribute whether by finding out what is happening locally and supporting it or setting up your own Islam Awareness Week it all adds up to the bigger picture, so do take part in this year’s IAW.

Amjid Bashir Islam Awareness Week

support us by joining our page on www.facebook.com/fifteen21magazine

39

Islam in Scotland Dr Awais Alvi

My grandfather arrived in Scotland in the swinging 60s.

With his flowing white shalwar kameez and long ‘Mozlem beard’ (‘why do Mozlems just shave their moustaches?’). The people of the small Highland town he opened up a chippie in didn’t quite know what to make of him, or he of them.

One of my favourite quotes of his, ‘Is their hair that colour from drinking too much Irn Bru?’ Another essential for early Muslim families was to wash down their roti with traditional Scottish substitute for water, Irn Bru. There were no signs of jugs of water on the table just glass bottles of Irn Bru that made the curries even more tastier.

40

The start of Islam Awareness Week on the 11th of March

2013, with the Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon attending the grand launch at Glasgow Central Mosque, signals that this lack of understanding between the early ‘Mozlems’ and the Scots is at an end.

Indeed, many indigenous Scots are converting to Islam and even adopting those ‘strange’ robes and beards themselves.

The people of Scotland are finally starting to realise that Muslims are here to stay and not just as interlopers but as an integral part of their flourishing community.

Humza Yousaf, the youngest Scottish Government Cabinet Minister, is flying high in the upper echelons of the ruling Scottish National Party and is heavily involved in the push

for Independence. We need more high profile Muslims to be involved in the debate of deciding Scotland’s future.

One of the events at IAW 2013 is a ‘Hijab Fashion Show’, aimed at helping the average Scot to break the taboo of the ‘oppressed Hijabi’ and show the fun side of the much misunderstood and much maligned female headscarf.

On a similar note, we hope to showcase the ‘Islamic tartan’ which wowed the crowds in London, Paris and Holyrood recently.

The recurrent theme of IAW 2013 is this sense that we, the Scottish Muslims, are no longer any different from the nonMuslims of Scotland. In fact we actually have more in common with them than not.

Recruiting Students Now! Get expert insider tips on your chosen career by joining our unique mentoring programme. Meet professionals from some of the UK’s leading companies.

Be eligible for a financial award at University!

EdUK8 Trust, set up to help talented young people from underprivileged communities, also provides financial awards in recognition of students who are demonstrating commitment to their vision and career goals. Secure up to £1,500 under our Awards programme for next year at University. Visit www. eduk8trust.org.uk/awards-programme to register your interest in applying.

Applications will open on 1st March 2013 and close on 31st May 2013.

From the Magic Circle to the Big Four to world leading corporations, we are working with some of the top companies in the UK to open up new

opportunities for ambitious students.

Are you interested in finding out what they want from a graduate and what it takes to be successful through their challenging application process? Meet and network with recent graduates and representatives from the Graduate Recruitment teams. Sign up for our Commercial Awareness events now at contact@eduk8trust.org.uk

Are you in control of your life?

Know where you’re heading and what is needed to achieve your Find out more at www.eduk8trust.org.uk

42

goals? Do you have a practical career plan? Need more reasons to become a mentee? Join our National Mentoring Programme today! www. eduk8trust.org.uk/national-mentoringprogramme.

Mentoring offers a range of personal and career development opportunities for students such as: • Commercial awareness and insights into a particular industry or profession and job entry routes • Advice on what specific employers are looking for in terms of skills and experience • Advice on writing CVs/cover letters, job applications, interview techniques • Practical experience through work based placement or shadowing opportunity Sarah Bibi EdUK8

Young Muslim Leadership Program In cooperation with the Prince’s Charities, and with the support of the Amanah Foundation, the Centre organises each year the Young Muslim Leadership Programme to encourage greater participation by Muslims in public life.

This two-week residential summer school is held at Oxford and is attended by young British Muslims, men and women between the ages of 20 and 29, who have demonstrated leadership potential in their chosen career-paths. They are drawn from a variety of backgrounds and interests, including national and local government, academia, the legal profession, media, and the voluntary sector.

The course consists of workshops, seminars and institutional visits. Presentations are made by Members of Parliament, senior civil servants and academics, as well as representatives of the media and community organizations.

In evaluating their experience, participants welcomed the opportunities to discuss the challenges facing Muslims in relation to education, employment, housing and foreign policy.

Dates and ‘How to Apply’ for the 2013 YMLP The eighth Young Muslim Leadership Programme is scheduled to take place between 18th - 31st August 2013 in Oxford. Some bursaries are available to cover the costs of participation on the programme. Applications are now being received and the deadline for applications is Monday 1st April 2013.

Candidates are encouraged to apply early. Places are limited.

Asma Mustafa YMLP Co-ordinator

www.oxcis.ac.uk/ymlp.html

support us by joining our page on www.facebook.com/fifteen21magazine

43

A Day in the Life of…

Prophet Muhammed

Mufti Niaz Hannan

(saw)

An Icy Heart in a Boiling Desert Cardiovascular medicine, simply put, means treatment of heart conditions.

One common method of treating heart diseases and illnesses today is called ‘open-heart’ surgery. Open-heart surgery is where the patient’s heart is ‘opened up’ and surgeons operate on the inner bits and pieces. According to Wikipedia, the first successful open heart surgery was performed in 1952 in the US. Wait a minute dude, not so fast.

peace and blessings upon him) had been picked up in infancy for nursing

by Halimah al-Sa‘diyyah (may Allah be pleased with her). He was now growing up in the desert with his foster parents Halimah and Harith, and their children Abdullah, Anisah, and Shaimaa, the foster siblings of the Prophet (May Allah shower peace and blessings upon him).

Allah be pleased with her) came out and saw the Prophet (may Allah shower peace and blessings upon him); only now his face was pale.

Anas ibn Malik (may Allah be pleased with him) narrates, ‘Jibril (upon him be peace) came to him, i.e. the Prophet (May Allah shower peace and blessings upon him) while he was playing with the other boys. He took hold of him, One day, the Prophet (May Allah put him on the ground, opened up shower peace and blessings upon him) his chest and took out his heart. He was playing with his siblings and friends removed a clot of blood and said, ‘This when all of a sudden, his brother ran was Shaitan’s piece of you’. He put the heart in a golden bowl (filled with ice) The first recorded open-heart surgery home and told his parents what he just saw happening. ‘The Quraishi, the and washed it with Zamzam water. He actually happened over fourteen Quraishi! Something’s happened to the then put it back together and returned centuries ago in the boiling desert Quraishi! Two men came, and they had it to its place. The boys came running sands in Arabia. Allah’s messenger, Prophet Muhammad (May Allah shower a knife…’ Pretty serious. Halimah (may to their mother and said, ‘Muhammad’s 44

been killed!’ They all came back to him and his colour had changed. Anas says, ‘I used to see the scar (of the stitching) on the Prophet (May Allah shower peace and blessings upon him)’s chest, (Narrated by Muslim, Hadith no. 261).

Interestingly enough, if a heart is temporarily taken out during an operation today, it’s usually kept in ice because that slows down the metabolic rate and keeps the cells from dying.

That’s not all. Cryonic fluids are also poured on the heart. These are salty liquids that contain the electrolytes needed to help nurture the heart.

Now, anybody that’s performed Hajj or Umrah knows that Zamzam water has always been traditionally salty in its taste. Researchers have now also

“

“

the first instances of using life support equipment happened only about a hundred years ago. There definitely wasn’t any of that type of stuff fourteen hundred years ago

found that Zamzam is high in potassium, calcium, and other electrolytes, which are ingredients, found in cryonic fluids used in hospitals today. So the way the Prophet (May Allah shower peace and blessings upon him)’s heart was handled is very similar to what happens in heart surgeries today.

This was one of the very first miracles of the Prophet (May Allah shower peace and blessings upon him). Think about it. If someone’s heart is taken out of their body, then that person isn’t going to stay alive for too long, except of course if they’re connected to a life support machine or something like that.

But guess what, the first instances of using life support equipment happened only about a hundred years ago. There

definitely wasn’t any of that type of stuff fourteen hundred years ago in the middle of the desert!

Allah Almighty sent these angels to cleanse the heart of the Prophet (May Allah shower peace and blessings upon him) so that he would become ready to carry the responsibility of being the messenger of Allah (SWT) and delivering Allah’s (SWT) message to humanity. He carried out this responsibility like a pro, stay tuned…

‘Haven’t We opened up your chest for you? And We removed your burden from you, that had (almost) broken your back, and We exalted your name for you…’ (Surah Ash-Sharh 94: 1-4).

support us by joining our page on www.facebook.com/fifteen21magazine

45

Nominate a Role Model!

Over the past 12 issues Fifteen21 has showcased many inspirational role-models from the Muslim community in the UK. From youth activists like Neelam Rose, to Humza Yousaf, a trail-blazing young politician in Glasgow to Aisha Yasmin, a young aspiring designer from Birmingham hoping to make it big in the Big Apple!

If you would like to nominate an inspiring role-model to be featured in a future issue of Fifteen21 please email us at letters@fifteen21.com with the following details;

e m a il N a l l m u E F e ls er / d b o m M u N le e o n n R o o h s r P e • p ct s a i t h n t o t ou b • C k n o w n ) a u yo s f i e ( r i p

ins t s) a d r h o W 0w 5 • 1 x ma (

We look forward to receiving your nominations!

46

In to The S

• •

im

Musl

•

age t i r e H

• • •

ds

lar

Regu

at

r, M nome

o

str A – ham

n

ticia a m e h

her

sop o l i h ,P

t

ay H l A bn son a e R f

o

ns, a m o t t

:O

Art c i m * Isla

*NEW

3

ion

ress p e D –

–I

und o S : w

ie v r e t n I

art P ) H U

B

Min g n u o

*Y

*NEW

x e N The

uf (P s u Y t

e

roph P f o ry

… e u t Iss

res u t a e F

ls

gha u M d

n

ds a i v a f Sa k

Boo , s m oe

s, w e i v Re

ies

Rec

tor S , s e ip

–P

Out on Friday 29th March 2013!

Thankyou for agreeing to be interviewed for Fifteen21 youth magazine, what does Stop The War Coalition do?

Organisation Profile Stop the War Coalition

48

I really don’t agree. I think the government and others say that marching changes nothing to try and get people to stay at home. But what about Martin Luther King and the Stop the War campaigns against our civil rights movement? What about government taking us into foreign Apartheid? More recently the Poll wars. We organised the big demos Tax? The truth is a lot of the great against the Iraq War ten years ago advances people have made have and we have protested against come from protesting and marching. our troops occupying Afghanistan, I recount in my book how it’s now bombing Libya, sending troops to come out that the government was Mali and intervening in Syria. We panicked by the anti-war protests, also help organise the big protests and one thing we have done is to against Israel’s attacks on the make it much harder for governments Palestinian people. The suffering to take us to war. caused by Tony Blair and now by this government bombing and invading Ten years on, do you feel the foreign, mainly Muslim countries millions who marched against the is one of the great crimes of this Iraq war in February 2003 achieved century so far. We want Tony Blair to anything? be brought to justice, and we want Britain to stop wasting money and We came very close to stopping lives on wars that most people think Britain getting involved in the Iraq are pointless and horrific.

War. Although we didn’t stop the war, we did win the argument.

Some believe that demonstrations are the weakest forms of power, Do you think Britain will ever see a what are your thoughts?

2-million strong march once again?

I do actually. I think marching is now very popular. We have had two big demos recently against the cuts, and that willl increase as the cuts get worse and worse and people get more and more angry.

The Occupy movement, UK Uncut, the Coalition of Resistance and the unions are getting together more and more.

In June there is going to be a Peoples’ Assembly of all the different elements of the movement that will call more action, so watch this space. Also I think the anti-war movement may well unfortunately have to organise more demonstrations as the threats of further strikes increase.

It was inspiring to hear that students walked out of classes to oppose our countries aggression, what can young people do today to support your work?

Get involved in any way you can. We have Stop the War groups in many schools, colleges and universities. They put on meetings and film shows and do sit-ins and protests and petition to raise Who is the United Nations and what do awareness and keep up the pressure. they do? What was their role in the Iraq When Israel invaded Gaza in 2009 war? students occupied buildings in many universities which really helped to put The United Nations brings together pressure on the government. If you don’t representatives of most of the worlds’ know of a group at your school or college governments. Unfortunately when the US, just email or phone us and we will get you Britain and other big powers want to start in touch with other students. The important wars, they often ignore the UN, as they thing is to get active! It’s the only way did over Iraq, and the five big powers things change. each have a veto, so the UN is not very democratic.

What further aspirations does Stop the War have?

Basically we want a world without war.

Why should people be forced to fight so that Western corporations control oil or other resources? That is why they are starting wars in Africa again, to get control of resources that belong to the people there. The same in the Middle East, they want to make sure the governments there are pro-western so that they can control the oil. We need a world of peace and that means justice too. Please join us to help.

Chris Nineham Vice Chair, STW Coalition www.stopwar.org.uk

49

Muslim Role-Models Shaista Gohir MBE Activist 50

How are you?

How will you be marking International be a part of the International Advisory Women’s Day on 8th March?

Group for Musawah, a global Muslim I will be 44 by the time your issue goes women’s movement who have members out.

To mark IWD, we at the Muslim Women’s across the world. This is their highest Network UK are holding our Annual decision making committee that steers Congratulations on your role with General Meeting at the House of Lords the direction of the movement. I have OXFAM, what does that involve? on the 4th March. We will have a accepted and I am looking forward to panel of speakers presenting on sexual my first meeting in Cairo in April to plan I am no longer at Oxfam. I was a violence against Muslim women and girls their 2014 global event.

Global campaign strategist there and in Britain. that involved mobilising support for How will you be marking International public campaigns such as the Green What achievements are you most Women’s Day on 8th March?

Scarf Campaign in support of Afghan proud of? women. I am currently working for Save After being frustrated by the the Children as an advocacy partnership Probably two achievements a) turning government not engaging with Muslims development adviser, where I have been a small informal group of Muslim except for one or two Muslim men, I set developing global and country action women into the only national formally up an online internet polling website in plans to reduce child mortality. established Muslim women’s organisation 2005 to collect Muslim opinion and then in Britain known as the Muslim Women’s channel this to government. In the same Network UK (www.mwnuk.co.uk) which year, I also joined the Muslim Women’s now has a membership of 500 with Network, a small informal group of a collective reach of 50,000 women. about 20-30 women attached to the Members are from diverse sectors, ethnic Women’s National Commission. In 2007, backgrounds, ages and locations. We I ended up breaking the group away would love to get more youth amongst from government and leading it as our membership though. After being the Executive Director.

Executive Director for 4 years, I am now the Chair b) I was recently invited to support us by joining our page on www.facebook.com/fifteen21magazine

51

What are the main obstacles and challenges women face today both in the UK and internationally? And how can we help?

Violence against women and girls of all faiths and cultures is the most widespread form of abuse. Globally one in three women will be raped or beaten in their lifetime and in Britain 1 in 4 women experience domestic abuse in their lifetime. Such levels of violence are indicative of the lack of respect for women and girls. Changing attitudes is therefore the first step in reducing violence, men and boys need to be educated that violence is unacceptable and never justifiable while women and girls must be encouraged not to continue to accept violence. It is important that men support women and act in solidarity and fight against all forms of violence.

Why do you feel these issues still exist Women are constantly degraded and for women in the 21st century? boys are growing up thinking it is the norm and acceptable to treat and see Increased objectification of women women and girls in such a negative way. in the media, in songs, in films, in Parents and schools need to challenge advertisements and an increasingly these attitudes and in fact they need sexualized society where pornography to intervene before boys develop such is easily accessible even by children on attitudes. mobile phones.

What do you feel is the best thing about your work?

Seeing change happen. For example, Muslim women are now more vocal about their rights whether in Britain or abroad than they were before. I see a critical mass of voices developing that are challenging inequalities and becoming more knowledgeable and aware of their rights in Islam.

How is your book coming along?

As you know I have always wanted to write a book but it is still in my head so I have still not achieved that goal. I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t

52

find the time or have the head space to think about writing right now.

Some examples include Malak Hifni Nasaf (Egypt), Rokeya Hossain (present day Bangladesh), Toobah Azmoudeh (Iran) and Nabawiyah Musa (Egypt).

MashAllah you are a great role model to our readers, but who was your rolemodel when you were growing up?

What further aspirations do you have?

In all honesty I had no role models when I was growing up. I had those when I was older and in my 30s to be honest. I remember meeting you when I was a housewife with three children aged 1, 2 and 3 in 2004. I was not an activist then. I was inspired by your activism for someone so young. Then I met Salma Yaqoob and looked up to her and thought if she can do it so can I! Then through my research of Muslim female role models in history (which I have featured on www.bigstster.org.uk) I found further inspiration from history. I found the Muslim feminists from the 20th century really inspirational as they were challenging patriarchy and fighting for womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rights during a difficult era when women were largely hidden from society with no voice and no education.

To write that book!

Any advice for our readers?

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be afraid to push boundaries, speak out and challenge the status quo.

This involves being relentlessly positive, never giving up, learning from bad experiences and seeing an opportunity in every difficulty.

Interview taken with Fifteen21 editor Fozia Parveen support us by joining our page on www.facebook.com/fifteen21magazine

53

Food for the Soul A Historical Muslim-Christian Debate When the British occupied India they sent many trained missionaries there to try and convert Muslims to Christianity.

The most famous of them all was a German priest trained in England by the name of Reverend Karl Pfonder. He was fairly fluent in Arabic and Persian (Farsi) as well as English and German. He had many debates with Muslim scholars in the 1850’s especially with Maulana Rahmatullah Keeranwi (RAH). This was the first time in history the Muslims were on the back foot because the rulers were Christians and the Muslims were being oppressed and persecuted throughout India.

54

Rev. Karl Pfonder was aware that the Muslims also believe in Isa (AS) to be alive in the heavens while Muhammad (SAW) died a normal death and is buried in Madinah Munawwarah. In one of the debates, he began by asking the Muslim scholar: Rev. Harl Pfonder: ‘Where is Muhammad (SAW) now?’ The Muslim scholar took his time to answer him.

After a considerable pause and thought he replied, ‘In the heavens next to Allah.’

This is what the Christians believe about Jesus that ‘he rose to the heavens to sit on the right side of God’. The Reverend then referring to the Prophet’s (SAW) grandson Hussain’s (RA) martyrdom in Karbala said: ‘If he is next to God, then when his grandson with the rest of his family was being killed in Karbala, did he not ask God to save them?’ The Muslim scholar again after a lengthy pause and thought replied, ‘Yes he did.’

The Reverend then asked excitedly, ‘What did God reply?’

To this the Muslim scholar appeared to have been taken back and was silent for a long time in deep thought with his head down. The reverend was expecting the Muslim to say that God obviously said ‘No’, because if he had accepted the Prophet’s (SAW) request, then his family would have been saved and that is obviously not what happened in Karbala. They were martyred. And if the answer from God was no, then that would show that the Prophet (SAW) was not close and dear to Allah (SWT).

Seeing the Muslim quiet, the Reverend stamped his feet on the stage urging the Maulana to answer, ‘So what was God’s reply then?’

The Muslim finally answered, ‘When the Prophet (SAW) asked God to save his family, God began to cry.’

‘What? How ridiculous! God began to

cry? What nonsense!’ exclaimed the Reverend. The Muslim scholar then said, ‘Yes, God started to cry and said, ‘Oh Muhammad! I could not save my own son (on the cross), how can I save yours?’

Nasruddin’s Car Drive Mullah Nasruddin and his wife are in their car driving.

Suddenly his wife screams, ‘STOP THE CAR!!!’

‘What is it?’ Mullah Nasruddin asks.

‘Turn around and go back home!! I forgot to turn off the oven!! The house will burn down!!!’

Mullah Nasruddin kept on driving.

‘Why aren’t you turning around?’

Mullah Nasrudin and the Burglar A thief went to Nasrudin’s house and carried away almost all the possessions of the mullah to his own home, while Nasrudin had been watching from the street. After a few minutes Nasrudin took up a blanket, followed him, went in to his house, lay down and pretended to go to sleep. The thief asked Mullah, ‘who are you? And what are you doing in my house?’ Mullah replied, ‘we were moving into your house, weren’t we?’

Ehsan Khan

‘The house won’t burn down,’ Mullah Nasruddin replied. ‘I forgot to turn off the shower.’

55

Masjids Around The World

Jama Masjid (Masjid Jahan Numa)

Capacity:

25,000

17th Built: Century

Location: Delhi, India This mosque is the biggest mosque in India and probably the most famous mosque in the country. It was built in 1656 by Shah Jahan, the fifth Mughal Emperor of India who also built the Taj Mahal. It took 6 years to construct this magnificent mosque. The long wait for the mosque was worth it.

Even today after 300 years the mosque looks so elegant and impressive. The mosque is situated in the old part of Delhi and is opposite the Red Fort. It is a beautiful example of Mughal architecture.

The beauty of the mosque is down to its simplicity. It is constructed of vertical strips of red sandstone 56

and white marble. It has 3 onion shaped domes, 3 gateways, 2 minarats and 4 towers. A broad flight of steps lead to the grand gateways to the north and south of the mosque. The gigantic arched gateways are elaborately decorated.

The third gateway to the east of the mosque remains closed most of the day and was exclusively used by the Emperor in the Mughal era.

The mosque has a large courtyard which can hold up to 25,000 worshippers during prayer. It is paved in red sandstone with a marbled tank in the centre for worshippers to perform ablution. It is the biggest mosque in India with a

capacity of 25,000.

The entrance to the main prayer hall is via a huge arched doorway or the 5 smaller arches either side of the main archway. This simple symmetry makes the mosque look so elegant. The main prayer hall has 260 pillars which support 15 marble domes at various elevations.

The mosque also houses priceless Islamic artifacts such as a Quran written on deerskin. When you walk around inside the mosque it feels as if you have gone back in time to the Mughal period. It is a very enchanting place which deserves to be seen in person.

Zeeshan Arif

Book Review

The Black Cat Detectives

By Wendy Meddour

A gasp escaped Nanna Stalk’s lips.

“Masha’Allah!” she said. “You’re not what we were expecting.”

For Rasheed Khan looked like a Bollywood film star! With swept-back hair, a white cotton suit and deep brown eyes, he flashed his perfect smile.

But Rasheed Khan is far from perfect.

Shaima and Ramzi discover, using Monopoly as a medium, whether the suitor from Truly Deeply Muslims online marriage agency is good enough for Dr Urooj Stalk (Britain’s leading insectologist). Once caught cheating at monopoly, Rasheed’s nature became transparent. But the family were too mesmerised

by Rasheed’s charms to take notice of this, it was evident that drastic measures needed to take place and that’s how the Black Cat Detectives initiated their first case.

And to think that it all started off when Iqbal Stalk got a pawn chess piece stuck up his nostrils.

book that moves away from the Muslim stereotype that resounds in the media. The author depicts Muslims in this story, dare I say, as normal. It’s beautiful to see how the remembrance of Allah (SWT) and Islamic principles are weaved into everyday life in the households, just resonating how normal this is and can be.

The book is sprinkled with Islamic terminology that’s beautifully and simplistically explained at the end by a small section by Shaima Stalk, allowing readers who are not familiar with the terms an insight.

A witty book that’s ideal for confident young readers, that even got my The laugh out loud slap stick humour young brother reading, who hasn’t depicts the life of two Muslim families, touched a book in years. Now that’s using the traditional storyline with saying something. a modern twist. This is a refreshing Samina Kauser

If I Adore You

poetry 60

If I adore You out of fear of Hell, burn me in Hell!

If I adore you out of desire for Paradise, Lock me out of Paradise.

But if I adore you for Yourself alone, Do not deny to me Your eternal beauty.

My God and My Lord Eyes are at rest, the stars are setting.

Hushed are the stirrings of birds in their nests, Of monsters in the ocean.

You are the Just who knows no change, The Balance that can never swerve, and The Eternal which never passes away.

The doors of Kings are bolted now and guarded by soldiers.

Your Door is open to all who call upon You. My Lord, Each love is now alone with his beloved.

And I am alone with You.

Reality In love, nothing exists between heart and heart.

Speech is born out of longing, True description from the real taste.

The one, who tastes, knows; the one who explains, lies.

How can you describe the true form of Something In whose presence you are blotted out?

And in whose being you still exist?

And who lives as a sign for your journey?

Take Away The Words Of The Devil O God, take away the words of the devil That mix with my prayer If not, then take my prayer as it is, devil and all.

All poetry by Rabia al Basri

61

Recipes Spiced Fruit Bread

Prep time: 30mins Baking: 20mins

For the Dough • 450g white flour, plus extra for dusting • 2 x 7g of easy-blend yeast • 50g castor sugar • 1 tsp salt • 150ml warm milk • 1 egg, beaten • 50g unsalted butter, melted, plus extra for greasing • Oil, for greasing For the Spices • 1 tsp ground cinnamon • 1 tsp ground ginger For the Dried Fruit • 50g dried apricots, chopped • 50g dried figs, chopped • 50g pitted dates, chopped • 50g sultanas • 50g glace cherries, chopped • Juice of 1 orange

62

1. Soak the dried fruits in the orange

4. Knock the dough back by kneading

juice for about 30mins, then sieve, reserving the juice.

Method:

for a few seconds. Dust 2 x 2lb loaf tins with flour. Halve the dough. Use a little flour to help you shape each half into a 2. Put the flour, yeast, caster sugar and smooth oval, then pop them into the tins.

1 tsp salt into a large mixing bowl with Cover both loosely with a clean, damp the spices and soaked fruit and mix well. tea towel and leave in a warm place for Make a well in the centre and pour in about 20mins. Meanwhile, heat oven to the warm milk, reserved orange juice, the 180C/160C fan/gas 4. beaten egg and the melted butter. Mix everything together to form a dough, 5. Bake for 20mins, then leave to cool in start with a wooden spoon and finish the tins before turning out and slicing. with your hands. If the dough is too dry, add some warm water, if itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s too wet, add more flour.

3. Knead in the bowl or on a floured

surface until the dough becomes smooth and springy. Transfer to a clean, lightly greased bowl and cover loosely with a clean, damp tea towel. Leave in a warm place to rise until roughly doubled in size, this will take about 1 hour depending on how warm the room is.

Nusayba Malik

63

National Events

To add your local study circles, conferences, events or courses please email events@fifteen21.com

Birmingham

Leicester

The Zawiya Centre T: 0121 766 8364 W: www.thezawiya.com

Masjid An-Noor T: 0116 262 5440 W: www.idauk.org

Arabic, Tajweed, Youth activities & Study circles for both brothers and sisters, various dates

Monthly Youth Programme for boys, starts first Saturday of each month

Bradford

York

Islam Bradford Centre T: 01274 395521 E: info@islambradford.com

York Central Masjid T: 01904 413 123 E: contact@yorkmosque.org

Study Circles, for brothers and sisters (separate classes), various days & times

Brothers Qur’an Circle, every Friday, between Maghrib and Isha Salah Sisters Qur’an Circle, every Sunday, 11am to Dhuhr Salah

… e u s s I e Next

Cambridge Cambridge Masjid T: 01223-350134 E: cambridgemosque@gmail.com

In Th

Arabic, Study Circles, Qur’anic Studies for both Brothers & Sisters, varies days & times

Edinburgh Central Mosque T: 0131 343 3802 E: edinburghmosque@hotmail.com

Arabic, Tajweed, Youth activities & Study circles for both brothers and sisters, various dates

Proph

3

on epressi D – s d n tham – A ng Mi y u a o H Y l * A n *NEW r tage – Ib i • r e H ilosophe h m P i l , s n u a i M ic • themat a M , r e stronom n f Reaso o d n u o :S terview n I

• Art! , Stories s c i e p m i c a l e s I s, R *NEW* Review k o • o B , s s – Poem e r u t a e F Regular •

•

Edinburgh

ry of The Sto

H) Part

f (PBU et Yusu

rida

Out on F

013!

rch 2 a M h t 9 y2

Life has its ups and downs You can talk confidentially online or by phone whenever you need to.

Whatever your worry, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s better out than in.

www.childline.org.uk ChildLine is a service provided by the NSPCC. Registered charity numbers 216401 and SC037717. 7244/11