Ar Rasheed Vol 10 No 2 by Islamic Focus

Financial Dealings:

Society:

Financial transactions whether clandestine or transparent are part of our everyday life. They also permeate our spirituality.

The Muslim AIDS Programme has an initiative for the protection of orphaned and vulnerable children due to HIV/AIDS.

Profile:

Mufti Muhammad Taqi Uthmani of Pakistan is a prolific writer and an eminent scholar of our time. We look at his life and work.

VOL 10 NO. 2 Jumâdal Ûkhrâ 1428 July 2007 JAMIATUL ULAMA Established in 1923 as Jamiatul Ulama Transvaal P.O. Box 42863, Fordsburg, 2033 Tel: 011 373 8000 Fax: 011 373 8022 E-Mail: jamiat@islamsa.org.za URL: http://www.islamsa.org.za

Ar-Rasheed End the Occupation of

PALESTINE

Masjid Al-Ibrahimi, Al-Khalil City, Occupied Palestine

outh Africans have once again re-affirmed their support and commitment to the struggle of Palestinians for freedom. A line up of events held around the country recently have borne testimony to this. These events were part of a Programme of Action to show solidarity with the people Palestine who are living under Israel’s illegal occupation since the end of the 1967Arab-Israeli War. Read Full story on Page 2.

Ulama Lose a Fountain of Wisdom and Guidance

The Cold War on Islam Co-opting ‘Moderate’ Muslims

he Rand Corporation, a reactionary and influential US think-tank, recently published a report entitled, ‘Building Moderate Muslim Networks’ (2007). This report re-states the oft repeated mantra of how extremism in Islam poses the gravest threat to the West. The policy question this report grapples with is: how best to engage with, influence, and co-opt “moderate Muslims” into programmes funded by the US government. The report suggests that lessons should be taken from the Cold War, when the USA funded and assisted ‘liberal networks’ to counter the political influence of the Soviet Union in the Eastern Block and other regions of the world. The report goes into great detail to ascertain what lessons the USA can learn from the Cold War, and how best to promote Islamic moderates around the world today.

The Rand Corporation, has published two major reports on strategies the USA could adopt in its interaction with Muslims. The first, published in 2003, and the most recent one published in this oulana Mohammed Cassim Sema (May Allah fill his grave year, lays the foundation for major US with His abiding nûr) was born on 12th May 1920. He government funded interventions to change, and completed his junior primary schooling at the St. Oswalds influence the thinking, faith, and attitudes of School in Newcastle and left for India in 1935 to pursue his dream of Muslims. becoming anAalim. Drawing on the experience of the Cold War, the a n e m e rg e n c y m e a s u r e a report highlights the grand strategy the USA He enrolled at Jamiah Islamiah steamboat named “Tilawa” was adopted during the Cold War. In doing this the Dabel where he pursued his especially chartered to transport Rand Corporation is, unwittingly or not, studies with distinction. He was passengers to various parts of promoting one of the largest politically inspired blessed to have sat at the feet of Africa. On 23rd November 1942 programs of social engineering since the end of some luminaries among whom Moulana left India onboard the the Cold War. The mere fact that Islam is targeted were Moulana Yusuf Binnouri “Tilawa” hoping to return to the in such a cold political-strategic manner, means and Moulana Badre 'Alam. shores of South Africa. After five that no-one can get away from the fact that Islam Miraculous Rescue days of journey a Japanese has become the main ideological counterpoint submarine torpedoed the ship (and implicit enemy) of the West led by the USA. Moulana graduated in 1942 at the which killed majority of the This is the reason why the Rand Corporation age of twenty three during the passengers. Read Full story on Page 15. advocates a Cold War style strategy to infiltrate,4 period of Second World War. As

Leading Issues

Ar Rasheed Vol. 10 No. 2

Israel is an Apartheid State The Cold War on Islam

4influence, and change the minds of

South Africans Call for... ) Boycott of Apartheid Israel ) End of Occupation of Palestine ) End of Detentions without Trial ) Dismantling of Apartheid Wall ) Release of Palestinian Tax Revenues he culmination of the events of the Programme of Action for the End the Occupation Campaign was a rally held at the Johannesburg City Hall on Saturday 9 June 2007. Speaking at this rally attended by well over 2500 people, Moulana Bham emphasised that even if the focus for the End the Occupation campaign was on the year 1967, the suffering of Palestinian people had begun much earlier. Palestinians have suffered at the hands of Zionist forces since the infamous Balfour Declaration of 1917 which promised the land of Palestine to the Zionist movement without much regard to the inhabitants of the territory. It was a product of a myth of 'Land without a people for People without Land.' Palestinians suffered under a period of torment and terror which culminated in the declaration of the Jewish state in 1948. The 1967 was therefore only an exacerbating instalment in the long anguish of Palestinians. Other speakers at the rally drew parallels between Apartheid and the Zionist entity of Israel. They quoted many eminent and an increasing number of people such as Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu and former US president Jimmy Carter who have unequivocally consider Israel as anApartheid outpost. End the Occupation campaign brings together various organisations, faithbased communities, social movements, political parties, labour unions, students, activists and representatives of governments sympathetic to the nonalienable rights of the Palestinian people. They all call for sanctions against Apartheid Israel and an unconditional end to the illegal occupation of Palestine.

CARPET & DECOR CENTRE SINCE 1968 FOR ALL YOUR FLOORING REQUIREMENTS COMMERCIAL CONTRACTS AND RESIDENTIAL INSTALLATIONS

WALL-TO-WALL CARPETS (ROLLS & TILES) AND VINYL FLOORING

JOHANNESBURG OFFICE

MEMBER OF:

FCA FLOOR COVERING ASSOCIATION OF SA

SALES

011 833 2311

FOR COMPETITIVE FREE QUOTES • GUARANTEED WORKMANSHIP SUPPLY AND FIT OR SUPPLY ONLY BRANCHES JOHANNESBURG, KRUGERSDORP, MIDDELBURG (TVL), PIETERSBURG, PRETORIA, SPRINGS, TRICHARDT & WARMBATHS

Balterio

HEAD OFFICE: 011 837 3856

LAMINATE FLOORING 12 MINERAL CRESCENT, CROWN EXT. 3, JHB

Muslims. But, what does the report say, and what proposals are made to pursue the goal of building moderate Muslim networks? There is a growing emphasis in Western government circles that the so-called battle against “radical Islam” is a battle of ideas. Meaning that the threat Western governments face, in terms of terrorism, and a growing resistance against its military interventions in the Middle East, should be dealt with by way of identifying moderates, liberal-minded, and secular Muslims to counter the “propaganda” of radicals. This report does not recognise the fact that the concepts it deploys to define Muslims (as radical, fundamentalist, modern, or moderate) is nothing but a throw-back to a type of Western imperialist thinking geared for divide and rule. The report argues that networks of moderate Muslims will be funded, and assisted politically to change the perceptions of Muslims. The important implication this holds is that Muslims, if viewed from this perspective, will no longer be in a position to define their own political, and to some extent religious positions. The irony is that most Western diplomats, government leaders, and securocrats will go to great lengths to say that Islam and Muslims is not the enemy. But, when the Rand Corporation couches its planned intervention in the heart of the Ummah within the context of Cold War logic, doesn’t it mean that the body of Islam is the enemy that has to be infiltrated, interfered with, and ultimately changed to suit the political vision of the United States? These are very difficult issues that Muslims will have to grapple with as we strive to please Allah alone, and to work towards the realisation of truth and justice in this world.

Historic Note In 1938 the Jamiatul Ulama sent telegrams to various leaders, countries, and organisations, across the globe, with regard to atrocities being committed on Palestinians by Zionist terror gangs. Among those to whom telegrams were sent were: the League of Nations, the monarchs of Hejaz and Egypt, the British government as well as Turkey. Copies of some of the telegrams sent and replies received by the Jamiatul Ulama are available for viewing on the Jamiatul Ulama website: www.jamiat.co.za.

Leading Issues

Ar Rasheed Vol. 10 No. 2

Bob Woolmer ‘Murder’: Where's the Truth? Pakistani Cricket Team Crashes out of the World Cup and their Coach Dies... It’s time to Pedal ‘Sound Theories’... ! Police believe... “Bob Woolmer, the Pakistan coach, was poisoned and then strangled as he was about to go public with allegations of corruption in international cricket, it was claimed yesterday…” (www.telegraph.co.uk)

! …Jamaica Police said, with speculation rife that he was eliminated by the betting mafia as he 'knew too much'. (www.hindustantimes.com)

! Pakistan cricket coach Bob Woolmer's mysterious death took a new twist with a media report in London linking his murder to Dawood Ibrahim and Al-Qaeda… (www.hindustantimes.com)

! …he was the victim of a supporter with a grudge. (sport.guardian.co.uk)

! …Woolmer killing was in response to a Fatwah issued against him for his views on the religiosity of the Pakistani Cricket Team. (www.bbc.co.uk/panorama/) Months later...

! ....Jamaican police are reportedly due to announce that Woolmer -- who was found dead in his hotel room the day after the team were knocked out of the World Cup in the Caribbean -- was not murdered after all... (www.hindustantimes.com)

Well Done Tshwane

Which reports of Bob Woolmer’s murder were we to believe in? Were these media 'instalments' done up to build intrigue regardless of the horror of the matter just to drive paper sales or web traffic? Was it not possible for relevant authorities and agencies to handle this investigation without the showmanship we saw and bring perpetrators of this crime (if it was) to book as quickly as possible? The sensation brought about by the manner in which this ‘murder’ was handled has been distasteful. It is difficult to find any other motive for this fiasco other than to think that this was a deliberate attempt at discrediting the ‘too religious’ Pakistani team.

‘Check this Anti-Islamic Website!’ Innocent; Well-intended; Negative Impact!

he intended ban on the advertising of alcohol in public places in Tshwane is definitely a move in the right direction. The ban is a part of a much larger plan by authorities to stop the spread of the scourge of drug and alcohol abuse. Tshwane has proposed the establishment of a 'Local Drug Action Committee' which would be made up of various law-enforcement agencies and broad range of community representatives. The 'Local Drug Action Committee' would be empowered with various powers, including restricting the erection of any outdoor advertising for alcohol products. Also included in their powers would be things such as; disconnecting the water and electricity at homes or business identified as dealing in illegal drugs as well as conducting random drug tests at schools, universities and places of entertainment. The by-laws are to be presented to the community and business this week, and will, after feedback from the public, be implemented in July this year. In light of the fact that the advertising of tobacco products are banned and the laws regarding the advertisement of tobacco products managed to retain its position in the face of strong opposition from the tobacco giants, one wonders why alcohol advertising in public places was not subjected to restrictions or bans a long time ago. Alcohol and drug abuse is without doubt a major cause of road accidents, murders, rapes, women and child abuse and other conditions that arise out of a persons judgment and senses being clouded. As expected, those with their own interests at heart will rise up to oppose the by-laws, and SAB has already threatened to take the authorities to take legal action. It is hoped that reason and justice will triumph, and that genuine efforts such as these, which consist of real solutions and empower authorities to take actual action will be supported in an effort to establish a free and peaceful society. The Jamiatul Ulama supports this initiative of the Tshwane Metro Council.

What is the Best Way of Responding to Anti-Islamic Websites? rom time to time at the Jamiatul Ulama we are referred to anti-Islamic websites. What is not realised is that such sites die on their own if they are not able to generate visits. Through more visits, more and more Muslims are angered and pushed to react in certain ways that fit stereotypes which have been created by enemies of Islam. This fits in with the adage, 'Who angers you, controls you.' Hence their objective is met at the expense of our greatest asset: time. Our time could be better spent on something positive. There are cases in which we do react by way of protest to websites that are anti-Islamic. However, the success in these situations is limited due to the nature of the Internet: anonymous hosts, pseudo-authorship, ease of duplication (mirror sites), sheer size of cyberspace, etc. It appears, the more you make noise about it, the more curiosity is built around the site, and the more visits are registered, hence, in the eyes of the mischief-makers, success! Where authors/webhosts have been identified, different methods can be used which may include but not limited to engagement through direct contact (phone/fax/email) and recourse to relevant legal instruments. In the case of South Africa, there are constitutional rights bodies which may also be approached by filing a complaint against such crude websites. Let us reconsider the sending out of 'alerts' and 'warnings' of any existing or emerging websites against Islam since this would tantamount to promoting those websites.

Microsoft Internet Explorer is a trademark of Microsoft Corporation

Spirituality

Ar Rasheed Vol. 10 No. 2

Our Financial Dealings: Transparent or Clandestine he various activities in our Deen are categorised into five groups. They consist of beliefs, acts of worship, financial dealings, social behaviour and character of oneself. Each of the above is of great importance. However, after analysing them, it can be concluded that our dealings constitute one of the most important activity for the simple reason that every endeavour of ours, religious or worldly, revolves around the nature of our dealings. If our dealings and avenues of earning are tainted or even Haraam, then it will have an impact on our minds. Instead of maintaining sound Islamic values and beliefs, we will begin to entertain evil thoughts, incorrect beliefs and eventually become victims of warped thinking. While we may continue to think that we are mentally progressing, our haughty attitudes will be frowned upon. No knowledgeable servant of Allah will have the courage to approach us in an effort to rectify our thoughts. This will eventually lead to us being deprived of true guidance. If this area of activity is not properly monitored and carried out, our acts of worship will be affected too. They will not be carried out with true devotion unto Allah. We will exhaust every effort in looking for an excuse to omit Salaah

JMB L A B E L S

in congregation, giving Zakaat on time and even performing Hajj. Why? For the simple reason that we sustain our health and bodies by consuming doubtful substances. It is high time we acknowledge that many of our dealings lack transparency and conformity to Shari'ah. Who knows? Maybe that's why we fear our creditors, the receiver, and the list goes on.

If we do not uphold the teachings of Islam in our dealings, every relationship, be it social, business or even personal will be ruined. We will deceive our best friends and relatives without a bothering conscience. We will begin to deceive, lie and pull wool over people's eyes just to provide unnecessary luxuries for our families. We will stop at nothing to finish off a chasing creditor or debtor in need of more time. If our dealings fail to comply with Shari'ah, our status in society will be

Remember!AShari'ah compliant deal is not the ‘be-all end-all’ of our dealings. Being involved in the prevailing Shari'ah compliant business ventures should not lead to complacency. It is for this reason that it is imperative upon us to seek forgiveness from Almighty Allah for possibly overstepping the boundaries of Shari'ah. There are times when we find ourselves ignorant of what we've gotten into and as a result have become guilty of open transgression in the court of Allah. Therefore, the need to turn to Him in repentance from time to time. If you are convinced that the content of this article is correct and accurate, then no time should be wasted in taking action and doing something about bringing a change in the way we transact or conduct ourselves in the business world.

May Allah bless us with understanding and the ability to practice.Aameen.

ICE CREAM

MANUFACTURERS (PTY) LTD 2 ALBERT STREET, LENASIA 1827

For Self-Adhesive Labels “STICKERS” 19 Bessemer Road, Amalgam Johannesburg P.O. Box 42828, Fordsburg, 2033 Tel: 011 830 0790 Fax: 011 830 1234 E-Mail: jmblabel@iafrica.com

reduced to nothing. We will become outcasts because of illicit dealings. Young and old will look at us with eyes of contempt for doing down others. Even after those we dealt with leave this world, we will have to live with the curses of their families and friends, all for the simple reason that our dealings were not above board. In essence, we will be unwanted and disowned by society.

Century Motors 16 Ada Street, Carlettonville Gauteng, 2499 Tel: 018 788 3274 Tel: 018 788 3937

P.O. BOX 56, LENASIA 1820 JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA Tel: (+27 11) 852 1416 or 854 1398/9 Fax: (+27 11) 852 1189 DURBAN Tel: (031) 579 5930 Fax: (031) 579 4260

MITSUBISHI MOTORS Approved Dealer for Mercedes Benz and Mitsubishi Motors

Spirituality

Ar Rasheed Vol. 10 No. 2

A Hadith Qudsi The gates of Paradise will be opened on Mondays and on Thursdays, and every servant [of Allah] who associates nothing with Allah will be forgiven, except for the man who has a grudge against his brother. [About them] it will be said: Delay these two until they are reconciled; delay these two until they are reconciled. Muslim (also by Malik and Abu Dawud)

Starting Your Day on a Spiritual High hat better way to boost your spiritual self and to feel good about yourself at the start of the day than by reciting Surah Yaseen after Fajr Salaah or before starting the day's routine? The importance of starting the day on a right note has not only been emphasized by Rasulullah Sallallahu 'alayhi wa Sallam, but its importance has not been lost upon the corporate world as well. Ads call for boosting your day by eating certain types of cereals for breakfast, consuming vitamins to keep your mind alert in order to achieve maximum output and using certain brands of deodorant to attract others is well- known. As the West places so much emphasis on starting your day in the most physically appealing and mentally charged way, so does Allah want us to start our day on a high spiritual note so that we set the tone of spirituality for the rest of the day. Allah is our guide and all affairs are in His control, so why not draw Allah close to you when starting your day, daily? One of the ways of doing this is by reciting Surah Yaseen every morning Sunday to Sunday not only on weekdays. As we see and hear the western ads daily, so should we remember the ahadith of our Noble Prophet Sallallahu 'alayhi wa Sallam in this regard daily.

TRAVEL BAGS

Manufacturers, Importers & Distributors of: Travel Bags, Sports Bags, Briefcases, Suitcases, Folios and School Bags Specialise in Nylon Bags for: Corporate Promotions, Computers, Conferences, Travel Agents, School Paramedics, Sports Clubs & Silk Screening Also Stockists of: Luggage Suitcases, Zino,Tosca, Cellini, Polo, Saley

TRAVEL OVERSEAS!!! WEDDINGS, HOLIDAYS & UMRAH 9 GOLD REEF ROAD GOLD REEF CITY ORMONDE JOHANNESBURG Website: www.stgbags.co.za

TEL: (011) 247-9200

Virtues of Surah Yaseen Our Noble Prophet Sallallahu 'alayhi wa Sallam mentioned a number of virtues and benefits of Surah Yaaseen which appear in authentic ahadith. Some of these are as follows: 1. “A person who recites it fearing Allah and the Hereafter has his past sins forgiven. Therefore, recite it over your dead.” 2. “I would love it to be in the heart of every person in my Ummah.” 3. “One who reads it at the start of the day all his needs are seen to.” 4. “Everything has a heart and the heart of the Quran is Surah Yaaseen.” 5. 'Allamah Muhammad Al-Jazari writes in the Al-Hisnul Haseen: “Recite Surah Yaseen (morning and evening) especially when in the presence of someone in his dying moments or after he has died, for it is mentioned in the Hadeeth that Surah Yaseen is the heart of the Qur'an and anyone who recites it for the pleasure of Allah and for the (reward of) the hereafter, Allah Will forgive him;

Content Imam Ghazali has explained that the subject matter of Surah Yaseen has to do with the Aakhirah (Hereafter). It is a strong belief in the Aakhirah which prevents one from sin and encourages one to do good. Thus, fear of accountability in theAakhirah is a critical factor in guiding man in his actions. This is much the same as the heart in the body. The body cannot function without the heart. Broadly, the subject matter of this surah covers the following areas : 1.Aakhirah (Hereafter) and Qiyaamah 2. Jannah and Jahannam 3. Relationship of prophets with their nations 4.Accountability beforeAllah 5. Mans social responsibility Meaning of “Yaa/Seen” The Surah begins with two letters “Yaa and Seen.” A number of interpretations have been given by the scholars regarding these letters. The most accepted view is that these are called Huruf al-Muqatta'aat. We do not know the true meaning of these letters. Their true meaning is known to Allah only. The Qur’an has a number of such letters which commonly occur at the beginning of certain Surahs of the Qur’an. e.g. Hâ Mîm, Qaf,Alif Lâm Mîm, Tâ Hâ, etc. Lessons from Surah Yaseen 1. The Qur'anic laws and systems are perfect and totally appropriate in every time and place. It is an unfortunate fact of the world we live in that man regards his own theories of social life, finance, law, etc to be superior than that of the Quran. This is the precise reason why the entire world is swimming in such chaos! 2. Hidayah (true guidance) is in the hands of Allah. He guides to the straight path whom He chooses. People with soft hearts accept the truth quickly and earn great rewards. Those who are arrogant and hard-hearted refuse the truth no matter how perfect the evidence may be. Conclusion We should not only recite this important surah in order to gain blessings from its words, but also to study the message of Allah contained therein so that we can transform our lives to be in tune with how Allah wants it to be. Âmîn.

What’s Happening at the Jamiat

From the Taalimi Board n April of 2006, a delegation of 4 people from the Jamiatul Ulama visited Thailand to observe the maktab level there and also make a survey on what the needs of the area are. This visit was in response to a visit by two Thai businessmen, who after a tour of the madâris, felt that the current South African maktab system is an ideal one for the betterment of Taalim in Thailand. Concurrently a Thai student, from one of our local Darul Ulooms, had begun the translation of the Tasheel series of the Jamiatul Ulama from English to Thai. This combination pressed the need for the Taalimi Board to embark on a trip for a hands-on programme on workshops for Ulama and committee members over there. A year later, the fruits from that expedition manifested in the form of a delegation from Thailand who had come to South Africa for a practical

Ar Rasheed Vol. 10 No. 2

Report on Thailand Delegation

workshop on the know-how of running a maktab and maktab networking. The team consisted of four delegates; Moulana A. Hameed Metha Principal of a girls institute with 200 students, Moulana Omar Saknirandon a young successful businessmen who now fully dedicates his time to Taalim, Mr. A. Gani Chumnantrakul a School Teacher with many years of experience in teaching and da'wah, and Shaykh Yusuf Wangchang a graduate from Al-Azhar University who is the Ameer of the maktab programme. Currently seven makâtib (afternoon madâris) have been established in and around Bangkok, the capital of Thailand. Even though there are other afternoon madrasah programmes in the country, this delegation wish to run theirs under the patronage of the Jamiatul Ulama.

During their two week stay they experienced, with assistance of the Taalimi Board supervisors, classroom situations in at least 15 institutes (including Muslim schools) of varying demographics and educational strengths. During the mornings they would attend PDPs (Professional Development Programmes) at the Jamiatul Ulama's head office on issues from administration to logistics and from teaching to report writing. As the host, we were at all levels tremendously impressed with their fervour, enthusiasm and discipline with which they conducted themselves. It was indeed a pleasure having them over and we ask Allah Ta'âla to make such travels with high and noble motives to be a means of strengthening our services and also a means of guidance for all concerned. Âmîn!

‘Hanging’ at The Youth Convention he Annual Jamiatul Ulama and Union of Muslim Students Association (UMSA) youth convention was held on the 13th of May 2007 at the Darus Salaam Islamic Centre in Laudium. Approximately 3000 participants comprising mostly of students from various universities, technikons, schools and darul-ulooms, as well as ulama, professionals, academics and members of the general public contributed toward the vibrant and inspiring atmosphere, and successful outcome of the event. A parallel conference for Muslim sisters took place on the same day at the Lenasia Muslim School (LMS), and was similarly well attended. The broad theme of the conference, as indicated by the catch-phrase 'Hang in there' on the advertising posters for it, was an encouragement to Muslim youth towards maintaining an Islamic lifestyle while simultaneously learning to overcome the challenges present in modern society. During the convention's main session, prominent Ulama including Moulana Ebrahim I Bham, Moulana Sulaiman Moola, Moulana Yaseen Mukaddam and Moulana Abbas Hlatwayo addressed and enlightened the gathering on a variety of topics related to the realities and demands challenging not only Muslim youth, but the Muslim Ummah as a whole, and the manner of responding and dealing with these issues in light of the requisites of our religion. Moulana Ebrahim I Bham explained the 'Hang in there' theme of the conference, and asserted the necessity of remaining firm and proud of one's Islamic identity, with particular emphasis on how the freedoms guaranteed in South Africa provide an opportunity for the practice of Islam. Moulana

Abbas Hlathwayo, who is a resident of Soweto, educated the audience on the similarities between Islamic practices and those of the Indigenous population of South Africa, and Moulana Mukaddam who previously taught in the USA, before being refused re-entry recently, stressed the importance of maintaining a complete and uncompromising Muslim identity, despite the negative messages encouraging Muslims towards abandoning aspects such as Islamic dress and appearance. Moulana Moola in his customary charismatic and eloquent manner explained the dimensions of the father-son relationship with detailed reference to the relationship between Umar bin Abdul Aziz Radhi-Allahu anhu and his son. Hafez Irshaad Vawda and Hafez Abdur Rahman Laily from the UMSA also addressed the audience, with Hafez Vawda emphasizing the need for Muslim youth to integrate in society without weakening one's core beliefs, and Hafez Laily explaining the consequences of the 'War on Terror' and its implications for Muslim youth. Dr Riyad Moosa also succeeded in providing some humour in a 'strictly halaal' manner! Thereafter various interactive ‘breakaway’ sessions were held at different areas of the conference with the topics discussed ranging from ‘Comprehending the media’ and ‘Maintaining a Muslim identity' to 'Relationships across the gender barrier' and ‘Alternatives for Muslim youth’. These sessions were conducted by a varied selection of panellists including national cricketer Hashim Amla, and various University and school students. The convention concluded with a Q&A session and a du'a by the ameer of the Jamiatul Ulama, Moulana Abbas Ali Jeena.

What’s Happening at the Jamiat?

Ar Rasheed Vol. 10 No. 2

AGM Review The Jamiatul Ulama Marks 86 Years of Existence

The MAP Orphan and Vulnerable Children Programme

he Jamiatul ‘Ulama held its AGM on 6th May 2007 at its headquarters in Johannesburg, marking its 86th year of existence. 'Ulama from all over the region converged at the office on that chilly morning to hear the activity reports of the various departments, give their suggestions and renew their commitment towards serving Islam in whichever fields they are involved in. In his opening remarks, the Ameer, Maulana Abbas Jeena Sahib pointed out that Muslims, by and large, have not learnt from the very painful and terrible lessons that history had taught them over and over again. He cited the example of Andalusia and the Ottoman Empire that a fragmented ummah was always cannon fodder for our enemies and presently too, as the crusade against Islam intensifies, Muslims are still involved in bickering about petty issues. The AGM report covered the work of the departments of the Jamiatul Ulama. Some of the highlights were that: · The Darul Ifta’s responses to 1018 written queries (fatawa). This was in addition to answering an average of about 50 telephonic queries a day! · Various branches had also taken special care to train and empower their office workers via various accredited courses in order to ensure more efficient service delivery to the masses. · A weekly online newsletter was launched in the middle of 2006 which includes handy Jumu'ah bayaan pointers for the 'ulama and a personal message from the Amir. About 5500 recipients are on the mailing list · The Jamiatul Ulama’s website (www.jamiat.co.za) has registered a steady increase of about 10 000 new unique users per annum for the past three years. · The Lenasia Branch had facilitated 197 burials thus far in the current year and they had also taken over a unique madrasah which includes teaching important life-skills like dressmaking and cooking in the curriculum. · Radio Islam, for their part, had devoted considerable time in improving the content of their website and 10 420 573 hits were

recorded last year. They had also attended more than 35 workshops and conferences dealing with specific areas of the media in a bid to improve service delivery. · In keeping with the demands of the time, a separate Media Desk was also established at the Jamiat in the past year. The main task of this Desk is not only to engage with issues raised in the media affecting Muslims, but also to build pathways in to the mainstream media so that the Jamiat can play a positive role in national debate. · Youth conventions were organised in Swaziland, Rustenburg and Middelburg and the Shababul Muslimeen of Lenasia, Benoni, Azaadville and Johannesburg reported much more consistent activities. The Ta’limi Board is the busiest and perhaps one of the most important activities of the Jamiat. Certain areas in the Boland have affiliated themselves with the Ta'limi Division, bringing the total of madâris under Jamiat supervision to 100. Furthermore, Books 1-5 of the revised Tasheel Series have already been published and the other textbooks and Manuals are in the process of being updated. The Muslim Aids Programme (MAP) had also surpassed all performance indicators and its progarmmes are now offered in four provinces. It also feeds 1000 orphans and vulnerable children daily. We have only been able to achieve these and much more by the help of Allah Ta’âla and your generous contributions. Other counselling services operating under the Jamiatul Ulama offices in Laudium, Lenasia and Johannesburg also tabled reports of their work. A detailed AGM brochure is available at the Jamiat Headquarters for those who require more details.

he AIDS pandemic has resulted in the deaths of 25 million people and a further 40 million are now living with the disease. The epidemic has also had a devastating effect on the lives of children. More children are caring for their sick parents and even more are made vulnerable through the impact of the epidemic on their communities. These children need support from the community. Muslim AIDS Programme (MAP) is running 2 Orhans and Vulnerable Children (OVC) programmes in Soweto and Fordsburg. We try to normalise the lives of the children as far as possible. The programme endeavours to strengthen their coping mechanisms, as well as the challenges of addressing the needs of orphans and other children made vulnerable by HIV/AIDS. The programme addresses some of the following: ! Withdrawal from school ! Discrimination and stigma ! Emotional needs and grief over illness and death of parent(s) ! Increased poverty ! Lack of adequate nutrition ! Loss of property and inheritance rights ! Material needs ! Shelter needs ! Inadequate health care ! Vulnerability to physical and sexual abuse ! Children become care providers for sick parents or for younger siblings ! Children may have to resort to various forms of labour ! Loss of parenting ! Homework and Supervision The project has been initiated by MAP in partnership with appropriate government departments. It has resulted in a most fulfilling and rewarding exercise and a much needed support for the Gauteng strategy in combating HIV andAIDS in the province. MAP is appealing to the community for Volunteers to assist with the programme as well as donations to sustain it. Please contact Safina or Aamena at MAP on tel: 011 373 8083/5.

The Muslim World

Ar Rasheed Vol. 10 No. 2

Muslim Worldnews Govt Trained Imams for UK

Uproar: Reforming Islamic Education in East Africa

nger is brewing among Tanzanian Muslims over government proposals on the teaching of Islamic education in primary and secondary schools. An accusing finger is being pointed at the United States for pushing forward the plan which among other proposals seek to have the teaching of Islam lumped together with the teaching of other religions. They expressed their concerns that America seeks to have an Islam "The tiny proportion of extremists usually have which reflects its policy. uslims in the UK have considered the recent British government as misguided in its thinking that imams whether home-grown or foreigners are to blame for extremism and that training them in UK university is the solution. Muslim experts and university imams told a newspaper recently. "The problem is not imams and their countries of origin," said Ibrahim Mogra, an imam at De Montfort, Leicester and Loughborough universities. nothing to do with imams," he insisted. Mona Siddiqui, professor of Islamic studies at the University of Glasgow, agreed. "People who are involved in extremism will not usually involve their imam," she stressed. "Imams are not the solution to the problem of terrorism." The government has described plans to educate foreign imams and encourage home-grown preachers as part of its efforts to clamp down on extremists. The Department for Communities and Local Government is developing "minimum standards" for all imams engaged by the state by early 2008.

Concerns are growing that non-Muslim teachers could, if the proposals sail through, be allowed to teach the subject. Under the proposals being propelled by the Ministry of Education and Vocational Training under Elimu ya Dini na Maadili Shuleni (EDMASHUTA) programme, Islamic Studies which is at present taught separately will be taught together with Christian Religious studies as Religious studies. EDMASHUTA is in the process of developing a single curriculum for the subjects.

The Department for Education and Skills says it is "not planning to educate imams at At a meeting recently in Dar-es-Salam, universities" but is rather developing training sessions for all faith leaders, including imams. more than twenty Muslim organisations These would include units on charity law, reiterated their opposition to the plan and leadership skills and financial management. "I don't see how it is going to work," said Siddiqui. "Who is going to have the authority on which imams get trained? I think it hasn't been thought through." No Interference University imams and prominent Muslims on campus insist that imam's training should be supervised by Muslims. "Imams must have spiritual and theological training that can only be supplied by people who themselves have had this training," Mogra said, adding Muslims will not accept government interference in theological training. Leaders of the some two million Muslims in Britain have blamed the government foreign policy and long-standing alienation and marginalization of the minority for extremism. "Blair needs access to someone who knows what's going on," said Mogra. "I'm more than happy to sit with him and explain.”

AKSTEX AFRICA t/a

Gani’s Cash & Carry GCC

48 Lilian Rd, Fordsburg Tel: 011 492 1689 Fax: 011 492 1707

Importers-Exporters & Distributors of Textile Piece Goods Stockists of Plain & Printed Polycottons; Shwe-Shwe Prints; Gala; Minimat; Butcher Linen; Pongee Lining;African Prints & All Basic Fabrics

E-Mail: farziab@proacess.co.za

vowed to soldier on to ensure that it was not effected. Dr Hamdun Suleiman from Munadhamat Da'wa al Islamiyya said the government should quash the programme which was of no benefit to Muslims in the country. Plans to reform religious education were first brought to Parliament last year but President Jakaya Khalfan Mrisho Kikwete later came out to dismiss the programme. But according to the weekly An-Nuur newspaper, in Tanzania the government is covertly pushing on with the programme and wants to have the proposals tabled in Parliament in June.“We do understand that this is not a Tanzanian but an American agenda. Why does our government accept to take other nation's programmes which have detrimental effects on its people?” asked the newspaper in an editorial recently. While Muslims in Kenya are grappling with the problem of Muslim students being taught their religion by non-Muslim teachers, there is strong opposition against the idea in Tanzania. In September last year, riots broke out after reports that Muslim students were being taught the subject by non-Muslim teachers.

Perspective

Ar Rasheed Vol. 10 No. 2

Insights of Scholars into Contemporary Issues

Extracts of the Writings from Ta’meer-e-Hayat by 'Allamah Sayyid Sulaiman Nadwi. The ‘Power of Decisiveness’ is by Maulana Sayyid Abul Hasan 'Ali Nadwi Nowadays, many of our scholars are only involved in the pursuit he conditions of this world and the ideologies and of studying and teaching, in answering legal directives (fatawa) philosophies which accompany it are changing at such and explaining masa'il to them. The time has dawned that that breakneck speed that without understanding them fully, they also revive the lessons of their previous scholars. Their duty one can not challenge them to be of service to Islam. The current economic and political conditions of the world have become so was not only limited to the field of knowledge and research, but widespread, that for a scholar of Islam who needs to be in the service they physically took part in many struggles, movements and other of Muslims all the time, it would be essential to understand these educational pursuits. Wherever they lived, they kept their happenings and devise solutions for them. communities alive through their efforts. Only to object to them and In short, to educate the then remain indifferent to The Duty of Each Alim (Scholar) of Islam ignorant, to enlighten the them will not solve the unaware, to assist the problem. By ignoring these indigent and poor, to fulfill whatever economic, political or realities of life, the world will not change its course and nor will societal necessities of the area, to advise the leaders and the societal norms and the current environment change. It is also the influential, to be of service to the disabled and weak, to guide stringent duty of every scholar of Islam and 'Aalim-e-Deen to those who are astray, to inform society of their weaknesses and tackle the present day difficulties and participate in the ways of overcoming them, to keep them informed of all the appropriate struggles and forums and try to attain a certain pertinent happenings of the world and to benefit the people position and status for Muslims in their country and society. through ones knowledge and actions… all these are the duties of a scholar of Islam ('Aalim-e-Deen).

etermining the curriculum for learning institutes is not something that can be casually decided upon, or determined with haste and driven by emotions. This is indeed a great responsibility.

The curriculum has an outer appearance as well as a soul which permeates the entire body. Planning a curriculum is not just about putting together some disconnected items and prescribing some lifeless text-books. In actual fact, it is the aspiration and the realization of the needs of a particular When reviewing any curriculum, it will not be proper to creed, nation, learning institute or community. It further maintain the old version as is and nor will it be correct to encompasses an understanding of present-day needs and regard it as deficient in benefitting from the all ways and completely A Comprehensive Definition of a Curriculum lessons of the past. abandon it. In reality, the curriculum of any nation reflects their degree of intellectual It would also be a gross injustice to merely place a list of progress, their learning experiences, their methodology and books before you and then decide what books needs to be their mental ability. It reflects the depth of learning of any prescribed and what books should be discarded, which book is nation, their level of thought, and the climax of their mental beneficial and which one is not, the contents of the one book ability. If one would like to measure the learning heritage and has more on that particular topic than another etc. These are knowledgeable experiences of any nation and the stature of not the only factors of determination. It should be their scholars and bearers of knowledge, curriculum is indeed accompanied by some intellectual realities, in order to do a reflection of their learning. justice to it. hat greater evidence of the intellectualism, political awareness and rising up to the challenges of the time can there be by the Ulama (scholars) of the past other than the fact that they had included western philosophy and Greek methodology (commonly known as mantiq) in the curriculum of their The Basis of the Rise madâris. Without doubt, this was the greatest need for the service of Islam at that time. At that time, no one could object to any of the beliefs of the Muslims and today there is no need to even answer to those objections. Today, that ideology has died down. It has no steam left in it and there is no fear of it influencing anyone or even reviving itself.

Likewise, there is a need today to create a new discourse in Islamic sciences. There is a dire need to refute all the political, economical and cultural objections against Islam. There is also a dire need to stir within the younger generation of this Ummah an undying passion to defend Islam as the fate of nations, their rise and and Decline of Nations d e c l i n e , s q u a r e l y depends upon the younger generation of today. This depends upon their good character, enthusiasm and dynamism, and willingness to sacrifice. These same youngsters will be tomorrow's architects of society and the anchor of our nation.

n this world, after the Might and Power of Allah Ta’âla (which is the Original Power), the greatest worldly power “that has stood the test of time,” that has been The Power of responsible for the many changes and revolutions in the world over time, “that has the power of shifting mountains from their places,” changing the direction of mighty rivers and extinguishing the lamp of impressive states, that brings to reality such things

Indeed, tomorrow belongs to those who work tirelessly today.

that were thought of to be impossible…this human power is called decisiveness. This wonderful quality has not only changed the fate of individuals and but nations and humanity Decisiveness communities, at large. Allah says: “Allah will not change the conditions (of a particular society), until they do not change their own situation.” (Ar-Ra'd: 11)

Fiqh Focus

Ar Rasheed Vol. 10 No. 2

Children Have a Place in the Masjid This Series of Questions and Answers will Help us Understand the Issue of Bringing Children to the Masjid. It is a translation of the answers given by Mufti Abdur Ra'oof Sakhrawi in an Urdu Magazine, Al-Balagh, published by Darul Uloom, Karachi in Pakistan. Question: I have noticed that some people are very strict and become very perturbed when they happen to see children in the Masjid. They scold them harshly and drive them out! Should all children be treated in this way when they come to the Masjid or are there some other details pertaining to this matter? Please shed some light on this issue for me. Answer: First, we will explain some of the principles [usool] in this regard and then we will endeavour to answer your question.

Masjid, they would soil it. It is compulsory (waajib) not to bring such children to the Masjid. 2.Those children who have some understanding of the sanctity and holiness of the Masjid and who will, most likely, not soil the Masjid if they visit it. To bring such children to the Masjid would be permissible, but they should be preferably left at home.

There is some detail as far as the types of children are concerned. There are three types of children who have not yet reached puberty (baligh or mature children are counted as adults):

3.Those children who are close to attaining puberty; who have a full understanding of the sanctity of the Masjid; who are aware of what is purity and impurity, and who uphold the sanctity of the Masjid. Such children can be brought to the Masjid (i.e. from the age of seven/eight upwards). In fact, it is encouraged to bring such children to the Masjid in order to get them in to the habit of performing Salâh. However, there should be someone to mind such children so that they do not get up to mischief or do something against the etiquettes of the Masjid.

1.Those children who are so young (toddlers) that they can not understand what is purity and cleanliness and what is not. They do not understand why a Masjid is different from another building and in addition, there is a possibility that should they visit the

When immature (not baligh) children visit the Masjid for Salâh, then before the congregation stands up, they should be placed in the appropriate place in the rows (sufoof) in order to follow the Imam. The details of the rows (sufoof) of children are as follows:

Firstly, it is not prohibited to bring all the types of children to the Masjid. Some can be prevented whilst others can not be prevented. This is why it will not be correct to prevent or drive out ALL CHILDREN from the Masjid.

TEMSIK EST. 1976

1. It is Sunnah to form the row of the children behind that of the adults. Thus, when the congregation stands up, the adults should first form their rows completely and thereafter, a separate row [saff] for the children should be formed behind them. 2. Even if the children are few in number, a separate row for them should be formed behind that of the adults. 3. Children should not be allowed to stand in between the adults. An effort should also be made that children do not walk in to adult row and join them whilst performing Salâh. 4. After the adult and the children rows are formed and the Salâh has commenced, if some adults then appear (i.e. come late),, they should join the adults in their row if there is place on the sides. 5. If there is no place in the adult rows, then they should join the children's row filling in the gaps to their left and right. They should not shift the children behind as the children were standing on the correct place in their rows when the Salâh commenced (i.e. they had come late, thus could not manage to find a place in the adult's row). This sequence i.e. children's row behind the adult's row, is to be observed and put in

TEMSIK BOLT & NUT WHOLESALERS 28 Lillian Road, Fordsburg

TOYOTA Freeway Toyota SALES, SERVICE, SPARES

Corner Northern Parkway & Crownwood Road Ormonde 2091 * 39394, Booysens, 2016 E-mail: toyota@freeway.co.za Website: www.freeway.co.za

Stockists of Quality Hand Tools; Power Tools; Drill bits; taps; die nuts; Abrasives; etc.

EXPORTERS TO AFRICA

Open Saturdays: 09:00-12:00noon Tel: 833 1320 (All Enquiries Ext 8) Fax: 834 7300 e-mail: sales@temsik.co.za Homepage: www.temsik.co.za

( 011 661 000 - Fax: 011 661 0050 (Parts and Service Centre)

( 011 661 0100 - Fax: 011 661 0150 (New & Pre-Owned)

Fiqh Focus

Ar Rasheed Vol. 10 No. 2

Balancing Masjid Sanctity and Tarbiyyah place before Salâh commences, and should not be changed after it has already started by the latecomers. 6. The regulation of forming the children’s row behind that of the adults applies only to those children who are well-behaved and disciplined, who do not make a noise in the Masjid, get up to mischief, uphold the sanctity of the Masjid and would, in all likelihood, perform their Salâh in silence and without disturbance; 7. However, if there is a fear that the children would get up to mischief during the Salâh and become a nuisance and even possibly nullify the Salâh of the adults, then a separate row should not be formed for the children. Rather, they should be made to spread out in between the rows of the adults.

procedure is followed, there will be no problem, but as soon as this practice is neglected, it gives rise to many other problems. Question: If there is only one child amongst the adults, should he be made to stand alone in a row behind the adults or should he stand amongst the adults? Answer: If there is only one child, he should be made to stand alongside the adults. This will not be regarded as makruh [reprehensible]. Question: What is the ruling if there is more than one child? Where should their rows [sufoof] be formed? Can they stand alongside the adults?

8. In this event, however, it would be better to place them at the far right and far left of the rows so that if they happen to cause a disturbance during the Salâh, it would not affect the Salâh of the adults. If they are made to stand in the rows in this way, it will not be regarded as makruh [reprehensible]. The tragedy of the situation is that Muslims, by and large, have overlooked and neglected their duty of paying due care to the spiritual upbringing, nurturing, character imbibing and imparting of sound values to their children. We do not realise that we need to teach our children the proper etiquette of visiting the Masjid which is the spiritual epicentre of the Muslims. We do not teach them the etiquettes of the Masjid and make a point of enforcing it upon them. The result of this is the defilement and violation of the sanctity of the Masjid. If every parent takes it upon himself to supervise his children, to continuously make them understand and warn them about getting up to mischief, then there is no reason why the situation prevalent in our Masâjid will not be rectified. Another aspect which we have by and large neglected in this regard is taswiyahe-sufoof, or the aspect of straightening of the rows, which is an essential part of establishing Salâh according to a hadith. An essential component of taswiyah-esufoof is that before the Salâh commences, each person, adult as well as child, should be in their proper position and posture in the saff in preparation for Salâh. Only when the rows are properly formed and there are no gaps in between, should the iqaamat be called and the Salâh be commenced. As long as this

Answer: If there is more than one child in the Masjid, and there is fear that they will cause a disturbance in the rows of the adults, then a separate row should be formed for them behind that of the adults and they should be positioned therein. It is against the Sunnah practice to unnecessarily include children amongst the adults, whether it be Salâh al-Jumu'ah or any other fardh Salâh. However, if it is feared that the children would collectively get up to mischief and then cause a hindrance to the Salâh of the adults, then the children should be separated and included randomly amongst the adults. Question: If there is a gap in the adult row, but the children's row is complete behind them, can an adult pass in front of the children (which normally would not be allowed) in order to fill the gap in front of them? Answer: It is proper for an adult to pass in

front of the children in order to fill a gap in the adult row whilst the Salâh is in progress. In such instance, one will not be regarded as sinning as he is doing it out of necessity. It will also be proper to separate the children in the middle i.e. disturb the formation of the children's row in the middle, in order to get to the front. Question: If the adult rows have been filled up, but there is place in the right hand corner and left hand corner of the children's row, should an adult latecomer join the children in their row or should he shift them one row to the back as some people do. Can one shift children a few paces back whilst they are performing Salâh, even if it done with dignity and calmness and take their place? Answer: Some detail of this has been already discussed, but there is no clearcut directive in the fiqh in this regard. However, after studying the various fiqhi texts, what appears is that it would be better for the adult to join the children in their row to the right and the left because the proper formation of the rows is considered before the starting of Salâh, not after it has commenced. The adults should rather join the children in their row and not shift them to the back. Question: If one were to form a separate row for the children on the occasion of Jumu'ah or the Eid Salâh where there is a huge crowd present, and there is a fear that the children would be lost or become unsettled (due to the absence of their father/ guardian), or the children will end up fighting and quarrelling amongst each other or get up to some mischief, then in this instance, is there a problem if the child is made to stand alongside an adult? Answer: If there is only one child, then it will be not be makruh [reprehensible] for him to stand alongside an adult. However, if there are multiple children, then without necessity, it will be against the Sunnah to include them amongst the adults. What can be done is that one can position ones child away from the adult as well as the children's row at a specific location in the Masjid like near a certain window, behind a certain pillar or adjacent to a certain door. If this is also not possible due the large crowd and there is a fear that the child might get lost, or become restless and fearful or get up to some mischief, then these children should be dispersed amongst the adults due to necessity. This is also the opinion of 'Allamah Rafi'i.

Q&A

Ar Rasheed Vol. 10 No. 2

From the Darul Iftaa ulama@islamsa.org.za

When I leave home, I adorn clean socks and then wear shoes. I need to make Zuhr Salaah at work and have to utilise the bathroom facilities for wudhu. There are people in there at times and I think that they would feel that it is unhygienic for me to wash my feet where they wash their face and hands. So I just make massah of my feet over the socks. Is this acceptable? Ideally, Masah should be made on leather socks. However, that sock which is not of leather but is so thick that it does not absorb water quickly and water does not sift (penetrate) into it and one is able to easily walk in it without shoes for a considerable distance, then Masah will be correct on such socks or else not. Hence, Masah on the thin cotton or nylon socks that are normally worn daily will not be permissible, as the aforementioned conditions are not found. (Hence, it would not be acceptable to just make Masah of the feet over the cotton or nylon socks) {Fatawa-Mahmudiyya (vol. 17 pg. 32 & vol. 20 pg. 117)}, {Fatawa-Darul-Uloom-Deoband (Imdadul-Mufteen) (vol. 2 pg. 247)}, {AapKe-Masail (vol. 2 pg. 66)}, {Ahsanul-Fatawa (vol. 2 pg. 61)}

Exactly what is the stance in terms of Sharia with regard to Taweez?

There are three methods to remove sickness and worries, viz (1) Du’â, (2) Medicine, and (3) Taweez. A person must opt for the first two and in certain sickness if he opts for Taweez provided that he stays within the boundaries of Shariah (i.e. fulfilling all the criteria for its validity), then there will be no problem. Amongst the criteria for its validity is that the Taweez must consist of words of which the meaning is known (at least to the Ulama). Thus those Taweezes of which the meaning is strange and unknown (even to the Ulama), then normally this type of Taweez would not be permissible as there is a strong possibility that words of Shirk (ascribing partners to Allah Ta'aala) may be used therein. Another criterion for its validity is that the person using the Taweez must have correct beliefs. Thus, if a person believes like they used to do in the times of ignorance that the Taweez itself will cure him (and not Allah Ta'âla), then it will be prohibited for him to use the Taweez, as such a belief is tantamount to Shirk. A further criterion for its validity is that words of Shirk are not contained in the Taweez; i.e. no other deity besides Allah Ta'aala must be beseeched for goodness and cure. If the Taweez contains words whereby other beings other then Allah

Change Your “Worthless” Paper Money into REAL MONEY

INVEST IN KRUGER COINS

KRUGER COIN BROKERS Sales & Re-Sales

T O M IA

Sportline Auto Mercedes and Honda Specialist Service $ Repairs $ Electronic Diagnosis $ Parts

Ta'aala are beseeched for help, then such a Taweez will be prohibited. Remember that the only being that can cure is Allah Ta'aala. Yes, the Taweez is a means but Allah Ta'aala is the only being that cures. In short, the permissibility of Taweez is subject to the case where ones belief is correct (that only Allah Ta'aala is the giver of cure) and the words used in the Taweez are the names of Allah Ta'aala, Quranic verses, Duas that are narrated or such words that do not have an iota of Shirk or Kufr in them. However, the preferred Sunnah method is to read the relevant Aa'yaat and Dua's for cure and then to blow on the patient. Yes, for the younger children or those who cannot read they may wear the Taweez. Hadhrat Abdullah bin Amr bin Aas Radhiallahu Anhu used to teach a Dua to his children who were of understanding age and able to recite. For the younger children, he used to write it down on a piece of paper as a Taweez and hang it on their necks. {Shami (vol. 6 pg. 363-364)}, {AhsanulFatawaa (vol. 8 pg. 255-258)}, {ImdadulAhkaam (vol. 1 pg. 329-330)}

If there is a jacket left in my Masjid and after 3 months of leaving it in the same open spot, I then make some effort in asking some people if it is owned by them and I get the negative, is it halal for me to claim it for myself? One must publicise the lost item (by way of announcing its loss, etc.) and keep the jacket for such a duration of time that no hope remains of tracing the owner. Thereafter, it should be given as charity (on behalf of the owner) to the poor. If the person finding the jacket is poor himself, then he himself may also bring it into use.

111 Industrial Road, Amalgam P.O. Box 1042, Crown Mines, 2025 Tel: 011 837 4001 or 011 830 0097 Fax: (011) 837 0327 Email: automia@telkomsa.net

If however, the owner happens to come thereafter and seeks the jacket then it will be necessary to return it to him. If it had been given to a poor person then it will be taken back from that person (unless the owner agrees to leave it with him). And if it cannot be traced, then its value will be given.

Retail Motor Industry Organisation

May Allah Ta’âla grant us the correct understanding of His religion and make us practice upon it.

Stockists of SA Gold Investment Coins 084 6786 014 or 082 8169 061

A selection of Questions from the Public as answered by the Jamiatul Ulama’s Darul Iftaa Department

Profile

Ar Rasheed Vol. 10 No. 2

Mufti Muhammad Taqi Uthmani of Pakistan ufti Muhammad Taqi Uthmani, one of the foremost of contemporary 'ulama in the world today, was born in Deoband on the fifth of Shawal 1362 A.H. (October 1943 C.E.) in an intellectual and pious family. His father, Mufti Muhammad Shafi, was the head Mufti of Darul Uloom Deoband before he migrated with his family to Pakistan in May 1948 where he founded the Darul Uloom Karachi in 1951, it is from this prestigious institution that Mufti Taqi Uthmani graduated at the young age of seventeen whilst attaining first position in his class. A few of the teachers of Mufti Taqi include his own father, Mufti Rasheed Ahmad Ludhyanwi, Maulana Akbar Ali, Maulana Saleemullah Khan and Maulana Abdus Subhaan Mahmud. After his 'Aalim Faadil course, Mufti Taqi Uthmani graduated as a Mufti within two years from the same institution. He also completed a degree in Law from Karachi University and obtained a Master's degree in Arabic from Punjab University. Mufti Sahib thereafter undertook teaching at Darul Uloom Karachi in 1380 A.H (1960) and his lectures on Sahih al-Bukhari and Tirmidhi, reduced to writing by some of his students and published, have become very popular and useful for scholars and the common Muslims as well. Besides teaching, Mufti Sahib is also the founder of the monthly organ of Darul Uloom Karachi, Al-Balagh in urdu (founded in 1967) and its English version, Al-Balagh International (founded in 1989). After the demise of his illustrious father, Mufti Taqi Uthmani was appointed as the vice chancellor of Darul Uloom Karachi. He was also appointed as a judge on the Shariat Appellate Branch of the Supreme Court of Pakistan due to his wide learning and expertise in fiqh. Furthermore, he is the deputy chairman of the Jeddah based Islamic Fiqh Council of the Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC). Rising to the Challenge Mufti Taqi Uthmani is one of the erudite scholars of this age who is aware of modern challenges to Islam and has detailed answers for such problems. The popular books, speeches and verdicts of Mufti Taqi Uthmani rightfully defend Islam against all modern incursions and innovations and provide for the seeker of the truth a clear and straight path to follow. Mufti Taqi Uthmani, has not only shown the way for establishment of Islam in all branches of life in the modern age, but he has taken his precious time and travelled extensively and written prolifically to point out the Islamic method in economic transactions, political endeavours, technological advancements and social conduct. To Muslims, technology can not mould Islam, instead Islam molds technology. International economics can not direct the

Quran and Hadith, but these two sources of mercy and guidance direct international economics. Transcontinental commerce can not guide Islam, instead Islam guides transcontinental commerce. It is points like these that Mufti Taqi Uthmani tackles. Banking and financing are not haraam in Islam, but Islam has its own way, method and values in the field of banking and financing. Mufti Taqi Uthmani is the senior advisor to many Islamic banks worldwide and serves on many Shariah Supervisory Boards. Mufti Taqi Uthmani himself points out an urge in Muslims to find out the Islamic method of business and trade: “All praise for Allah. For some time, this consciousness has born into the Muslims to free themselves from the evils of the economic system that had been forced upon them during western colonization and to mould their economic endeavors according to Islam.” (Islam, Modern Living and Trade, page 5) To show Muslims how to mould their worldly transactions and make them a part of Islam, Mufti Taqi Uthmani’s Islam, Modern Living and Trade is an excellent book.

Mufti Taqi Uthmani has also written and spoken much on purification of the inner-self and has explained the reality of tassawuf in many of his writings. His eleven volume “Islahi Khutbaat, which has been translated into English and entitled “Discourses on the Islamic Way of Life,” show his deep understanding of Islam and portray his balance in all disciplines of Islam. He is not only a jurist or a sufi, but he is a living Islamic scholar, well-versed in Quran, Hadith, Fiqh, Tassawuf, history, economics and politics. He has explained the political outlook of Hadhrat Hakeemul Ummat Maulana Ashraf Ali Thanvi in his book, The Political Ideology of Hakeemul Ummat and supervised an excellent translation of his father’s book on tafseer, the Ma'arif al-Qur'an. Mufti Sahib is also a great researcher and an outstanding examiner. He has completed the commentary of Maulana Shabir Ahmad Uthmani on the Sahih of Imam Muslim and this completed version has been published as The Completion of the Victory. His research skills are also evident in From the Bible to the Qur'an, which is a translation of Maulana Rahmatullah Qayranwi's Izhar-ul-Haq (Manifestation of the Truth). In this three volume work, he had investigated all the sources and then cited them in the translated version, which was a arduous toil. He has also

written a book explaining Christianity from an Islamic point of view called 'What is Christianity?' an English translation of 'Isa'iyyat kia hey? This book is now also available in Arabic. No matter from which angle you look at, Mufti Taqi Uthmani has defended and protected the original and unaltered teachings of Islam. His book on Taqleed defends this practice of Ahlus Sunnah wal Jam'aah and provides the full proof of following one of the four Imams of Fiqh. This book is called Taqleed ki Shari Haysiyat in Urdu meaning The Legal Position of Taqleed. Great Traveller Mufti Taqi Uthmani together with being an excellent writer is a keen observer. His travelogue, Jahan-e-Deeda (Travelogue of the world) and its continuation, Dunia Meray Agay (the world before my eyes) and his account of Turkey, Andalus mein Chand Roz (A Few days in Spain) are all excellent examples of how a believer should take heed from his observations. These books are equally important for Muslims, for they point out the view a Muslim should have while traveling and seeing the nations of the past and the present. It seems that Mufti Sahib's skills are boundless as he is an excellent biographer as well. The obituaries he wrote in Al-Balagh have been collected and published. Nuqushe-Raftagan [ A Life-Sketch of some Contemporaries] examines the lives of many personalities of the Muslims world from late 1960s to late 1990s. He has also written the biography of his father, Mufti Muhammad Shafii, which has a unique title, Meray Walid, Meray Shaikh (My Father, My Shaikh). His biography of the late Dr. Abdul Hayy Arafi is also noteworthy. Defending the Ulama of Deoband, Mufti Taqi Uthmani has written an excellent book entitled Akabir-e-Deoband Kia hey? Malfoozat-e-Akaabir, which is a collection of the sayings of the scholars of Deoband. The writings of Mufti Taqi Uthmani has also been welcomed by the wellwishers of this great Islamic institution. Mufti Taqi Uthmani has also written many other valuable and useful books. Currently, hundred of thousands of 'ulama and non-'ulama alike are benefiting from his books and speeches indirectly and thousands are benefiting and have benefited from his pious company directly. On the spiritual front, he has been granted khilafat from Dr. Abdul Hayy Arafi and Maulana Muhammad Maseehullah Khan Saheb, both senior Khulafa of Hadhrat Hakeemul Ummat MaulanaAshrafAli Thanvi. We pray that Allah keeps the shadow of the likes of Mufti Taqi Sahib for a long while over us so that we may drink from their fountain of knowledge and wisdom for as long as possible.Aameen.

Obituary

Ar Rasheed Vol. 10 No. 2

An All-Rounded Community Worker arhûm Khalil-bhai Hassim was born in Maraisburg on 25 May 1939. He qualified as a teacher in 1960 and taught for 6 years. For 28 years he worked at Protea Industrial Chemicals and held a senior position as a national purchasing director. In 1963 he married and in the years that followed was blessed with 3 sons one of whom (the youngest) passed away in 2006. Khalil-bhai was a man devoted to his family. His mentor was the Imaam of Hamidia Masjid, Qari Usman Surtee. Khalilbhai felt duty bound to impart his deeni knowledge to the community and hence started his life long service to the Ummah. At Newtown Madrasah he would conduct adult evening classes. For many years he was one of the senior teachers at Al Aqsa Madrasah in Newclare during Sunday mornings. He propagated Islam to non-Muslim. Not only had many accepted shahâdah at his hands, but he also saw to their basic Islamic education. At the time when most of

Did you Know That...

the lectures were in the Urdu language, Khalil-bhai would speak on Jumuah and evening programmes in English. This was appreciated by many people. In the days when 'itikâf was not widely practiced he was amongst the forerunners who reawakened this Sunnah. In his capacity as an executive member of the YMMA (Young Men's Muslim Association), he was very active in social work. One of the major priorities was to see to the establishment of Islamic libraries. He helped many people who had marital and other social problems. Khalil-bhai conducted many Nikâh ceremonies and the department of home affairs had recently appointed him as a civil marriage officer. Many people attended his Hajj lessons which he conducted annually and provided participants with the correct inspiration to perform this fundamental pillar of Islam.

MOTOR SPARES AND ACCESSORIES

This deep concern not only affected his social life but also had an adverse impact on his health. This dedicated servant of the community returned to the Creator after battling cancer which had metastasized. The gap left by Khalil-bhai will not easily be filled as such devotion and sincerity is rarely found today. May Almighty accept his efforts and grant him Jannatul Firdaus.

Passion of His Life In the mid 1970s he witnessed a group of young boys taking drugs in the

! Annual US aid to Israel exceeds the aid the US grants to the whole of the African continent? ! Israel is the only country in the Middle East that has nuclear weapons? ! Israel is the only country in the Middle East that refuses to sign the nuclear non-proliferation treaty and bars international inspections from its sites? ! Palestinians cannot buy or lease land in Israel [the Zionist entity]?

Manack's

Oriental Plaza parking lot. This disturbed him so much that he dedicated the rest of his life to helping people abusing substances. He started extensive drug counselling, holding workshops in schools, radio programmes and country-wide seminars on the dangers of drug abuse and also making parents more vigilant. As a mark of his dedication, he completed a formal course and qualified as a counsellor. Seeing the dire need for this work, he gave up his senior position at Protea and did full time counselling at the Crescent of Hope Rehabilitation Centre in Magaliesburg for the last 5 years of his life.

! Palestinians are not allowed to move from one city, say Gaza to Bethleham, to another without first getting a 'visa' from the Israelis? ! Palestinian youth, both Christians and Muslims are denied access to their Holy sites routinely? ! Israel’s settlement-building on Palestinian Lanf increased in the eight years since Oslo? ! Palestinian refugees make up the largest proportion of the refugee population in the world?

YARONA Cash & Carry

S.A. PLASTICS 26 Hay Street, Ophirton 2091 P.O. Box 39481, Booysens 2016

Tel: 011 493 1490 Fax: 011 493 4929

Specialising in:

Seat Covers, Louvres, Windshields, Steering Wheels, Spoilers and all Car Accessories

$ $ $ $

Shop S 252 Oriental Plaza (Main Road Entrance No. 3) Fordsburg Tel: 834 3296 / 8348430 Fax: 834 3523

$ $ $

SUPPLIERS OF: PLASTIC: Bags, Tubing, Shrink Wrap, Mini Grip (Plain & Printed) STRAPPING: Polypropylene, Polyester, Steel TAPE: Packaging, Industrial, Speciality Tapes TWINES: Polypropylene, Sisal, Cotton PAPER: Wrapping Paper, Disposable Paper Products BOARD: Corrugated Cardboard, Cartons LABELS: Gummed, SelfAdhesive (Plain & Printed) MACHINES: Heat Sealing, Strapping

THE PACKAGING SPECIALISTS

Obituary

Ar Rasheed Vol. 10 No. 2

Ulama Lose a Fountain of Wisdom and Guidance

Moulana Cassim Mohammed Sema Continued from Page 1

Moulana together with a few passengers managed to get onto a life boat and now had to brave the ravages of violent sea storms. Moulana who was seriously ill had a vision of Moulana Buzruk encouraging him to constantly remain engaged in Durood. This ordeal which lasted thirty-eight hours was eventually ended by a rescue by a British ship called the “Birmingham.” Out of a total of a thousand passengers only a hundred and twenty-five survived. They eventually returned to Bombay once again. Stranded in India, Moulana applied to the Majlise Ilmi in Dhabel for a post as a researcher. Moulana was tasked to make “takhrij” [referencing] of the footnotes of “Athar al Sunan” by Allama Nimwi, which is a compilation of hadeeth relating to Hanafi fiqh. He completed the first volume in one year under the tutelage of Moulana Yusuf Binnouri. When the Majlise Ilmi closed for two months, Moulana traveled to Delhi which is a thousand miles from Dabel. It was on this trip that he met Moulana Ilyas, the reviver of Tabligh. Thereafter he journeyed to Deoband to meet Moulana Hussein Ahmed Madani. However, this was not possible as Moulana Madani was incarcerated by the British. After a brief sojourn, Moulana went to Lahore where he met Moulana Ahmed Ali Lahori a great wali and a renowned Aalim. Moulana's thirst for 'sulook' drove him to walk for two days to Raipoor so that he could meet Sheikh Kamil Moulana Raipoori Saheb.

Moulana eventually left for South Africa in 1944. Moulana married in 1945 and was blessed with five children. He began serving the Wasbank community as teacher and Imaam. In 1949 Moulana began da'wa activity among the indigenous community in a reserve called Msinga Reserves. Over a period of ten years approximately 900 people embraced Islam. In 1960 the first Ijtima in South Africa took place in Wasbank. Moulana's da'wa activity attracted constant harassment from the authorities until he was arrested for not having a permit to enter a “Black Reserve.” Moulana was eventually released after paying a fine of five pounds. After twenty three years of service in Wasbank Moulana retuned to Newcastle in 1968, to take up the position of teacher and Imaam. During this time Moulana with the help of three other Ulama developed a curricular for madressas in Natal under the auspices of the jamiatul Ulama in Natal. This syllabus was called “Nisab Qasimi.” Fulfilment of a Dream Ever since his arrival from India, Moulana had a burning urge of initiating a Darul Uloom on the shores of South Africa. After several unsuccessful attempts since 1946, it was only in 1969 that he came a step closer to realizing his dream. The St Dominic Academy was purchased from the Vatican in Rome. With extremely limited resources Moulana had to embark on transforming the church into a place of worship. An existing classroom was used as a dormitory, another for teaching.

Narrated By Anas bin Malik Radhi-Allahu anhu: We went with Allah's Messenger Sallallahu ‘alayhi wasallam to the blacksmith Abu Saif, and he was the husband of the wetnurse of Ibrahim (the son of the Prophet). Allah's Apostle took Ibrahim and kissed him and smelled him and later we entered Abu Saif's house and at that time Ibrahim was in his last breaths, and the eyes of Allah's Apostle Sallallahu

The Darul Uloom was officially opened in Newcastle on 13 May 1973. The syllabus was developed with the help and guidance of Moulana Yusuf Binnori. Classes officially began on 9 September 1973 with nine students. For the first three years Moulana taught, cooked food and did the laundry, apart from doing all the administration of the institute. He also served as both Imaam and Muazzin for the five daily prayers. Darul Uloom has since produced more than 300 ulama and approximately five hundred huffaaz. Moulana lost his life companion fondly known by the students as “Appa” in 25 May 1998. Moulana remarried in 2000 and he is survived by this wife of second marriage and a five year old daughter together with four sons and one daughter from his first wife. Despite extreme pain and difficulty Moulana continued teaching upto his last illness. He spent the last three weeks in hospital and eventually passed on the 9 June 2007. It should also be mentioned that Moulana had supervised the project of rendering the Qur’an into the Zulu language at the Darul Uloom in Newcastle. Moulana’s death is an irreplaceable loss to the ulama fraternity, his demise brings with it the end of an era. He will forever be remembered for his humility, piety, his trust in Allah and for his knowledge and wisdom. While his family have lost a father, his students have lost the foundation of their wisdom and guidance.

‘alayhi wasallam started shedding tears. 'Abdur Rahman bin 'Auf said, "O Allah's Messenger, even you are weeping!" He said, "O Ibn 'Auf, this is mercy." Then he wept more and said, “The eyes are shedding tears and the heart is grieved, and we will not say except what pleases our Lord, O Ibrahim! Indeed we are grieved by your separation.” (Sahih Bukhari)

Editorial

Ar Rasheed Vol. 10 No. 2

The Challenge of Business

n the 300 years of Islam in South Africa, Muslim business people have played an admirable role in establishing a business identity that is premised not only on profit, but also on progress. Despite 3 centuries of punitive legislation against free trade, ownership of land, prohibited entry into mining, farming, engineering and a host of other productive sectors of the economy, we have created an impact in growth and trade. Our trading activity has created employment, generated funds for masâjid, maktabs, schools, orphanages, clinics, social welfare, boreholes, relief projects and numerous other charities. Our philantrophy derives from our faith. It is based on establishing a just moral and social order. We are inspired to engage in free and fair trade. We are challenged to take the initiative in creating wealth, in a manner that personifies honesty, integrity and nobility in dealings. We have clear boundaries in what is lawful and what is prohibited. Beyond this, the only limits are what we set ourselves.

After thriving for generations it is possible to adapt and excel in changing times... Are we prepared to seize new opportunities?

down upon a farmer, a miner, a millwright, a fitter and turner? Entrepreneurs It is ‘OK’ to be all of these people. But to merely remain in one stuck position all of one’s life is not. The largest farming enterprise listed on the JSE is headed by a person who was once a farmer. The flurry of mining deals running into billions of rands in this overheated sector, is led by one who was once a miner, the person who led the buyout of a major multinational company was once a millwright…and the list goes on.

The above examples are to illustrate what happens when we see with new eyes. When the Noble Prophet Sallallahu ‘alayhi wasallam instructed us to: “Take to trade, because out of ten divisions of livelihood, nine are in trade”, we need not narrow our focus to trade that we have always been exposed to. All aspects of business, local or international, pertain to trade in its many forms. We need to exert our minds to find the Growth right openings for this trade We are inspired to engage in free and fair trade. South Africa is experiencing in the different times and We are challenged to take the initiative in unprecedented growth. After the consumer boom and the creating wealth, in a manner that personifies honesty, contexts that we live in. Equally important, is the emergence of ‘black integrity and nobility in dealings. We have clear need to have information that diamonds’ we are witnessing boundaries in what is lawful and what is prohibited. will generate opportunity, to an investment boom. Beyond this, the only limits are what we set ourselves. create networks that will Infrastructure spending, open doors, to forge ahead on capital projects, mergers and the road less travelled, to acquisitions, have all resulted in a drastically changed leave the herd and make a new path. This requires analysis, business landscape. Government’s business charters education, information and data that makes you stand out regarding BEE, foreign direct investment, China and India from the crowd. But most of all, your branding should be making substantial inroads, all of these initiatives have value driven, exemplifying the highest and noblest ideals unlocked opportunities previously undreamt of. And to that all great leadership is endowed with. cap it all, there are no limits to the range and sectors of business that we can now have entry to. Mining, Vision manufacturing, agribusiness, tourism, healthcare, “Vision without action is a waste of time and action defence, are just a few of the previously prohibited without vision is useless. But vision with action can move barriers that are now open to those who will rise to the mountains.” challenge. In addition career prospects with government in every sector, is an open opportunity. It is encouraging to take note of the calls from within our community to re-examine our future role as business Opportunity leaders. Allah Subhanahu wa Ta’âla exhorts us in Sûrah We need to reflect on where we are in this changing Jum‘uah to hasten to trade in a manner that embodies the landscape. What is our level of representation in these great and the good, of creating values, in sustaining purity new, opening markets? What is our impact in these in thought and deed, in maintaining humility versus sectors? It is true that we are over represented in some excess. We are slowly rediscovering that our most sectors, like retail, but hopelessly under represented in effective goal is to be the best in all we do, that to create many others. What direction are we providing to our youth institutional leaders in various sectors of the business and in business and career guidance that will inspire them to industrial landscape is also a mujahada. We can make the most of these new opportunities? Are we still transform. We can transcend from the mundane to the stuck to the old ways in doing business? Is our preferred sublime, and if business happens to be part of it, so be it. It focus still only in law, accounting and medicine? Is merely reaffirms our dictum to be the best of mankind in teaching still a grudge choice instead of a preferred one? Is the promotion and protection of values as well as the an artisan position still looked down on? Do we still look constant search for excellence in all we do.