MBM Issue 12- The Family Issue by MBMuslima Magazine

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The global magazine for Muslim women

‫مجلة المسلمات الجميالت الملتزمات‬

July 2 0 1 0

S h a ’ a b a n 1431

٠٢٠٢ ‫يوليو‬

٠٣٤٠ ‫شعبان‬ The best of you are the ones who are the best to their families, and I am the best to my family. -The beloved Prophet (SAW)

Volume I Issue XII

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Contents July 2010 Editor's Letter…………………………………………….Page 4 Finding Good Character in a Spouse…………………...Page 10 Poem: Salah…………………………………………......Page 12 Sakina Design Giveaway……………………………......Page 14 Marriage...How's yours?...........................................................Page 17 Hakim and Leila, Remember Allah……………………….Page 22 Garden of Knowledge…………………………………...Page 23 Extremism?...................................................................................Page 25 Le Respect Des Parents…………………………………Page 34 Calyx & Primula at the Inacraft 2010……………….......Page 36 Sumayyah bint Khabat…………………………………..Page 41 I've Got Rhythm…………………………………………..Page 42 10 Tips For Fresh Graduates……………………………..Page 46 Thai Coconut Soup………………………………………..Page 51 Pad Thai………………………………………………….Page 52 Grilled Skirt Steak with Thai Chili Dipping Sauce…….....Page 53 Quran Challenge………………………………………...Page 59 Heart Health 101………………………………………..Page 62

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From the Bism Allah Al-Rahman Al-Raheem. In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Assalamu Alaikum Wa Rahmatullah Wa Barakatu. May the peace & mercy of Allah Subhana Wa Ta’ala be on you. Dear MBM Readers, When brainstorming what would be the theme for this issue of MBMuslima, it took me quite some while until I put my finger on exactly what it would be. As the 12th issue of MBMuslima, and the last issue in Volume 1, I wanted to choose a theme that represented the glue that sticks everything together. After much thought down a uncertain path, it suddenly became crystal clear what it should be: the family issue. In this life, the one thing that really brings everything to close is the family. Now, I do understand that not everyone has this sort of unit or structure. However, in this issue, as the topic of family is discussed, it will be implied that for some, “family” may not necessarily be biological. I have a habit of keeping my editor’s letters very optimistic, as I pray to Allah that this publication serves as being “glass half full.” However, this editor’s letter will be a little different. In past issues, the themes of MBM have been concepts such as Taqwa, Activism, Ramadan, Knowledge, The Beauty of Islam, etc. Because these things are concepts, it is only clear why they are full of all good. The concept of family is a very beautiful one, given to us by the mercy of Allah aza’wa’jal. However, the family unit is facing a severe crisis. This is true for Muslims and non-Muslims alike. Let us look at the broad picture of some of the problems a family may face. Many children severely lack respect and empathy for parents. Many parents do not understand their children, and as a result, do not know how to communicate with them. Many teenagers are vulnerable to the dangers of drugs, alcohol, and sex. Many teenagers are pushing their parents away on the outside, but on the inside, they are dying for their approval, support, etc. Many parents just do not know what their children deal with on a daily basis. Domestic violence is a huge, silent problem. Many family members lack the will to live up to their gender roles. Many family members have cut off ties with other family members. For many, maintaining a relationship with extended family is a tedious and unwanted responsibility. Many husbands and wives do not

Editor understand each other and fail to emotionally support one another. The list goes on and on and on. Sure, there are many families out there (walhamdulilah) that do not deal with these severe problems. However, statistics show that the majority of families, Muslim and non-Muslim alike, do deal with these problems in a very severe fashion. No one is immune to these problems. I am not immune to them. You are not immune to them. However, we do have great resources: our relationship with Allah (SWT), the Quran, and the teachings of our beloved Prophet (SAW), and the teachings of the Prophets before him (PBUT). So this issue is an invitation. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s invitation to critically analyze your state of affairs with your family members and see what you can improve. Our Prophet (PBUH) told us that, The best of you are the ones who are the best to their families, and I am the best to my family. Now, this is a very common hadith, that I am sure many of you have heard numerous times before. However, this time, let us apply it. We all have shortcomings, but we should not let that stop us from achieving greatness. Many of us do achieve greatness, but we achieve greatness outside of or home. Let us not fall into that trap and let us revive the beautiful sunnah of our Prophet (SAW). Any good from this, is from Allah SWT, and any bad, is from me. Please continue to send E-mails, comments, and messages, as they are all very helpful in constructing a magazine to suit YOUR needs. If you do not feel your voice being represented in MBMuslima, then MBMuslima is not fulfilling its core mission and vision statements. However, MBMuslima cannot represent you, if we do not know what you stand for. =) So please be proactive, interactive, and critical thinkers. But also remember not to put all of that ahead of the sheer guidance of Allah (SWT). JazakAllah khair. Assalamu Alaykum wa Rahmatullahi Wa Barakatu, Sister Yasmin

This editorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s letter will be posted to the MBM blog on July 1, 2010 for you to comment on! http://www.mbmuslima.com/blog

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You can now comment on *select* articles at the MBM blog! Select articles will indicate the dates they will be posted for comments.! P.s. Click here to check out the awesome giveaway contest brought to you by Sakina Design thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s helping celebrate our new blog, alhamdulilah.

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A Litte R&R:

Roles & Relationships Meet Tayyaba Syed Tayyaba S. Syed is a wife, mother, and writer. She is also a certified substitute teacher and teaches on a part-time basis. She has written for numerous publications including the *Chicago Crescent Newspaper*, *Azizah Magazine*, and *Muslim Quarterly Magazine*. She has been featured on air with National Public Radio's "Speaking of Faith" program as well as Soundvision's Radio Islam. She also does public speaking on marriage and family for Muslim women. She is a lead volunteer for the Refugee Assistance Program (RAP) as well as Camp Busy Bees in Illinois. She finds inspiration for her work through her wonderful family and community.

Visit her blog at www.tayyabasyed.blogspot.com Photograph: Don Ionut Popescu | Dreamstime.com

This article will be posted to the MBM blog on July 4, 2010 for you to comment on! http://www.mbmuslima.com/blog

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There are things that every woman should look for in a husband such as faith, intelligence, personality, appearance, family background, and character. The one thing that should stand out from the rest is his character. If he has good character, he will naturally carry faith in his heart and have taqwah, have a good personality, come from a decent family, be smart in his endeavors, and look beautiful inside and out.

We are brought up in a very selfish society where it is all about "me". We see it on the road with discourteous drivers, at the stores or restaurants with rude servers and cashiers, or in our neighborhoods with impolite neighbors. No one seems to care for anyone else. It is every man for himself. This attitude is especially prevalent in marriages.

People get married for the wrong reasons or with the intention to "change" his/her spouse after marriage. They get married for Character and taqwah go hand in hand. the sake of getting married or having an The way we treat people, other creatures, and amazing wedding. They do all the preparathe Earth are all reflective of how we perceive tions for a wedding but not the marriage itthe Creator of all these creations. A believer self. When push comes to shove, they flee with taqwah finds excuses to praise Allah the scene. We see less and less patience or in all the beauty that is around us: the green- tolerance of a partner's faults and weakery of the grass and trees, birds soaring nesses. Instead it is all about what needs to through the air, or a baby's first giggle. His ac- be changed and not what is actually there. If tions are based on accountability reaping rea person does not change his/her ways, the wards for any small act of kindness and redoor is shown or taken. fraining from sin as much as possible.

No one is perfect and neither is marriage supposed to be perfect. Relationships are not easy to handle, but they are easy to sustain. You might not be happy all day long in your marriage, but you should try to find happiness in each day with your spouse. Learn to sacrifice and compromise and try to be on the same page as much as possible with your spouse. If you get upset about something, look at the positive side of things. If you get mad at your spouse, remind yourself of all his/her goodqualities. Be sensible and understanding as best as you can. A husband should be your control in a life full of variables. He should bring you sakoon with his presence and his touch. He should love you for you, and you should do the same.

*When looking for a spouse, you should look for more than just a good, practicing Muslim. When a good proposal comes, look into the guy and his family carefully. Do isthakara and make du'a for proper guidance. Allah knows what is best for us.* *Here are a few suggestions:* 1. Someone who will inspire you to strive more in your deen rather thans omeone who you have to push to pray or grow Islamically. 2. More than someone who just prays 5 times a day but rather one that tends prayer in the masjid as often as possible and tries to pray in congregation. 3. A man that is respectful and loving towards his parents especially his mother. If he treats her right, he will treat you right. 4. A guy that approaches his parents first about you rather than coming straight to you. 5. You hear nothing but good things about him from others. 6. He knows how to control his temper and his words. 7. He is open to your needs and wants. If career is something that is very important to you, he will not stand in the way of it but be supportive through all your endeavors. 8. He is good with kids. 9. He is aware but not insecure about his faults and is always striving to improve as a person and as a Muslim. 10. He loves you for the sake of Allah. 11. He is not judgmental or backbites about others. 12. He tries to embody the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW). 11

By Mariam Al-Kalby I’m falling in love. This feeling that melts into my skin, more slippery to grasp than the cloud’s hands, airier and lighter than a matchstick.

This poem will be posted to the MBM blog on July 10, 2010 for you to comment on! http://www.mbmuslima.com/blog

Love that flies like dust in the morning air, and delicate as the twigs bending their backs struggling to reach the sun’s rays.

Falling in love is like the down on the kitten’s underside, and every time I raise my hands to my ears, lay my right hand on my left, a piercing focus enters my heart. A snap of the fingers, a sniff of jasmine, it is a concentration of love that congeals into submission. I pray this love never extinguishes its strength. I want the roots to wrap itself to the dirt floor and grow as loud as the redwood tree. It is this love that connects with the Almighty. Mariam Al-Kalby is a graduate from Cal State Long Beach with a B.A. in English Education and Creative Writing. She currently is a Religion Editor for InFocus News and has also contributed articles to muslimahsource.org. She also likes to create designs and likes to write short stories, poetry, articles, anything that is writing! For more info contact her at digging4truth@gmail.com Photograph: Paul Benit | Dreamstime.com

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DURATION: June 28, 2010 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; July 26, 2010 DRAWING DATE: July 31, 2010 PRIZES: 1st Prize (10 winners): Sakina Design greeting card set 2nd Prize (10 winners): Sakina Design bookmark set *ALL participants will receive a 15% OFF coupon for Sakina Design.* HOW TO ENTER: To enter, please go to http://www.mbmuslima.com/sakinadesigngiveaway. Note: Upon entering the giveaway contest, you will be added to the MBMuslima and Sakina Design mailing lists, as it is the basis of your entry. You will get the chance to agree to this when you submit your entry. SWEEPSTAKES DRAWING: The contest will run for 30 days (June 28 to July 26, 2010), in which individuals will have the opportunity to enter the sweepstakes by registering at MBMuslima. 14

The drawing will be held on July 31, 2010, Sakina Design will use http://www.random.org/ to generate 20 sweepstakes winners: 10 winners will receive a set of Sakina Design greeting cards and 10 winners will receive a set of Sakina Design bookmarks (A set of 5). Winners will be notified by August 3, 2010 via email. All participants will receive a 15% OFF coupon for Sakina Design. *It will be sent out on the drawing date (July 31, 2010) and will be valid for one week. RULES 1. NO PURCHASE IS NECESSARY TO ENTER OR TO WIN. 2. Must be 18 years old or older and currently living in the United States to enter. Prizes will not be shipped outside of the United States. 3. One entry per person. 4. Employees of Sakina Design or MBMuslima Magazine, and manufacturers, vendors, salesmen, and any other people maintaining business relations with Sakina Design or MBMuslima Magazine as well as family members are not eligible to enter. 5. Void where prohibited. 6. To redeem the prize, the winner must respond to the winner notice no later than August 10, 2010. 7. Prize items cannot be exchanged or replaced with cash. 8. Odds of winning depend on the number of entries submitted and received. 9. All prizes may be exchanged for the other available prizes, of equal or lesser value, with the consent of Sakina Design. 10. Sakina Design and MBMuslima Magazine reserve the right to disqualify the winners. 11. If any information submitted by a participant for giveaway is found to be false, he or she shall be disqualified for the giveaway and its prizes. This contest is sponsored by Sakina Design (http://www.sakinadesign.com/) and promoted by MBMuslima Magazine (http://www.mbmuslima.com/) Please forward any inquiries or communications regarding this contest to SakinaContest@mbmuslima.com

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When you educate a man, you educate a single person. When you educate a Woman, you educate a household!

Marriage...Howâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s yours?

By Kanika Aggarwal from Habibi Halaqas

When I got home that night as my wife served dinner, I held her hand and said, I've got something to tell you. She sat down and ate quietly. Again I observed the hurt in her eyes. Suddenly I didn't know how to open my mouth. But I had to let her know what I was thinking. I want a divorce. I raised the topic calmly. She didn't seem to be annoyed by my words, instead she asked me softly, why? I avoided her question. This made her angry. She threw away the chopsticks and shouted at me, you are not a man! That night, we didn't talk to each other. She was weeping. I knew she wanted to find out what had happened to our marriage. But I could hardly give her a satisfactory answer; she had lost my heart to Dew. I didn't love her anymore. I just pitied her! With a deep sense of guilt, I drafted a divorce agreement which stated that she could own our house, our car, and 30% stake of my company. She glanced at it and then tore it into pieces. The woman who had spent ten years of her life with me had become a stranger. I felt sorry for her wasted time, resources and energy but I could not take back what I had said for I loved Dew so dearly. Finally she cried loudly in front of me, which was what I had expected to see. To me her cry was actually a kind of release. The idea of divorce which had obsessed me for several weeks seemed to be firmer and clearer now. Photograph: Rob Riden | Dreamstime.com

The next day, I came back home very late and found her writing something at the table.. I didn't have supper but went straight to sleep and fell asleep very fast because I was tired after an eventful day with Dew. When I woke up, she was still there at the table writing. I just did not care so I turned over and was asleep again. In the morning she presented her divorce conditions: she didn't want anything from me, but needed a month's notice before the divorce. She requested that in that one month we both struggle to live as normal a life as possible. Her reasons were simple: our son had his exams in a month's time and she didn't want to disrupt him with our broken marriage. This was agreeable to me. But she had something more, she asked me to recall how I had carried her into out bridal room on our wedding day. She requested that everyday for the month's duration I carry her out of our bedroom to the front door ever morning. I thought she was going crazy. Just to make our last days together bearable I accepted her odd request. I told Dew about my wife's divorce conditions.. She laughed loudly and thought it was absurd.. No matter what tricks she applies, she has to face the divorce, she said scornfully. My wife and I hadn't had any body con17

Marriage...Howâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s yours?

My wife and I hadn't had any body contact since my divorce intention was explicitly expressed. So when I carried her out on the first day, we both appeared clumsy. Our son clapped behind us, daddy is holding mummy in his arms. His words brought me a sense of pain. From the bedroom to the sitting room, then to the door, I walked over ten meters with her in my arms. She closed her eyes and said softly; don't tell our son about the divorce. I nodded, feeling somewhat upset. I put her down outside the door. She went to wait for the bus to work. I drove alone to the office.

She was choosing what to wear one morning. She tried on quite a few dresses but could not find a suitable one. Then she sighed, all my dresses have grown bigger.. I suddenly realized that she had grown so thin, that was the reason why I could carry her more easily.

On the fourth day, when I lifted her up, I felt a sense of intimacy returning. This was the woman who had given ten years of her life to me.

But her much lighter weight made me sad. On the last day, when I held her in my arms I could hardly move a step. Our son had gone to school. I held her tightly and said, I hadn't noticed that our life lacked intimacy.

Suddenly it hit me... she had buried so much pain and bitterness in her heart. Subconsciously I reached out and touched her head.

Our son came in at the moment and said, Dad, it's time to carry mum out. To him, seeing his father carrying his mother out had become an On the second day, both of us acted much essential part of his life. My wife gestured to our more easily. She leaned on my chest. I could smell son to come closer and hugged him tightly.. I the fragrance of her blouse. I realized that I had- turned my face away because I was afraid I n't looked at this woman carefully for a long time. might change my mind at this last minute. I then I realized she was not young any more. There held her in my arms, walking from the bedroom, were fine wrinkles on her face, her hair was through the sitting room, to the hallway. Her hand graying! Our marriage had taken its toll on her. surrounded my neck softly and naturally. I held For a minute I wondered what I had done to her. her body tightly; it was just like our wedding day.

On the fifth and sixth day, I realized that our sense of intimacy was growing again. I didn't tell Dew about this. It became easier to carry her as the month slipped by. Perhaps the everyday workout made me stronger.

I drove to office... jumped out of the car swiftly without locking the door. I was afraid any delay would make me change my mind... I walked upstairs. Dew opened the door and I said to her, Sorry, Dew, I do not want the divorce anymore. 18

She looked at me, astonished, and then touched my forehead. Do you have a fever? She said. I moved her hand off my head. Sorry, Dew, I said, I won't divorce. My marriage life was boring probably because she and I didn't value the details of our lives, not because we didn't love each other any more. Now I realize that since I carried her into my home on our wedding day I am supposed to hold her until death do us apart. Dew seemed to suddenly wake up. She gave me a loud slap and then slammed the door

and burst into tears. I walked downstairs and drove away. At the floral shop on the way, I ordered a bouquet of flowers for my wife. The salesgirl asked me what to write on the card. I smiled and wrote, I'll carry you out every morning until death do us apart. That evening I arrived home, flowers in my hands, a smile on my face, I run up stairs, only to find my wife in the bed - dead.

Go to http://www.habibihalaqas.org/2009/09/marriagehows-yours.html to comment on this article.

----The small details of your lives are what really matter in a relationship. It is not the mansion, the car, property, the money in the bank, blah..blah..blah. These create an environment conducive for happiness but cannot give happiness in themselves. So find time to be your spouse's friend and do those little things for each other that build intimacy.

Do have a real happy marriage! 19

Habibi Halaqas Online Lectures for Sisters once a week during the evening. -Islamic Knowledge -Life skills specific to Muslim Sisters -Social Psychology -Self Grooming -Parenting

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Why this book? Islam was forced into the middle of political and cultural turnmoil, and while the majority of Muslims are angered by what is claimed and what is done in the name of Islam, some others in the rest of the world are incensed by what they hear and see through the "commercial" Media for the first time - about Islam. With that in mind and with all of my personal beliefs and certainties, I, on the contrary, took on this project for a completely different reason. As a Muslim American I see a huge divide being relentlessly dug between my American people and 1.2 billion Muslims, a divide that can only lead to a road of hatred, confrontation and already bloody conflicts. The easiest thing for casting some light through the darkness of such a divide, was to defend the religion and analyze the false claims in details, claims which are so baseless and plenty, however, I chose the most honest, unbiased, and to the point approach. I chose you! I gathered a cross section of the prophet's entire quotations covering as many aspects of Islam and life as possible. I chose the quotations that covered the heart of matters, with minimal need of explaining historical events or local customs through which it may have been required for a message of other quotations to be understood. You will read the words of the prophet about Islam exactly, as they were said 1500 years ago, translated in a simple and as accurate as humanly possible language, most importantly, they are written directly from him to you.

Then it's you. Then it's you who will decide for yourself, whom the

prophet really was, what is Islam about, in all matters of perspectiveness. Whatever your opinion will be, it will be purely yours, with nothing between you and Islam, the prophet or the prophet teachings....even me. If I succeeded in spreading the truth, helping to close even on inch of the divide of delusional fear and ignorance, or even help save one piece of hair from being hurt on either side of the widenting divide, I would have succeeded tremendously.

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* Adapted from a speech from Imam Moustafa Zayed

Extremism? By Brother Kyle Smith The media often portrays Islam as an ―extreme religion‖. Sadly, sometimes some individuals will in fact take the religion to the extreme. However, this is true in all religions. Anyone with true knowledge about Islam knows that the religion does not accept extremism. The goal of this article is to explain how Islam strictly forbids extremism. In Surat Al-Balad Allah (SWT) tells us ―we have created mankind in difficulty‖ (90:4). Therefore, it is clear that life is difficult. Allah (SWT) created life and death to test mankind to see who would obey him, and who is worthy of his Jannah (paradise). If life were easy, and everyone was righteous, then why would anyone be deserving of jannah? The following verse ―if it wasn’t for Allah (SWT) pushing people against each other (good vs bad, righteous vs non righteous), then the system of earth would have been ruined‖. What is the way then to the easy life?

The easy way to life is our Deen (religion). Everything that Allah (SWT) mandated upon our life is easy: ―Allah wants you to be at ease and he doesn’t want to make it difficult for you‖ (Quran 2-185). Photograph: Kayla Jenkin | Dreamstime.com

Allah (SWT) wants to facilitate our life. Allah (SWT) does not want to make things difficult for us: ―he chose for you to be Muslims and He did not create anything to be difficult in you deen‖ (Quran 2278). Allah (SWT) tells us ―We created you as a nation of the middle so you will be witnesses upon people as Prophet Muhammed (SAW) is a witness upon us‖ (Quran 2-143).

This means that Islam is the religion between al Ifratt (excessiveness) and Tafreett (negligence). Excessiveness is to add or burden ourselves by making our deen harsh and difficult. This is totally opposite if what Allah (SWT) wanted for us. Allah (SWT) tells us that Islam is deenul yusr [the deen of ease] (Quran 2-185) Negligence is to disobey Allah (SWT) by committing abominations, Haram etc. An example of how Islam is the middle path is as follows: picture yourself driving on a two way street, if you drive too much to the right, you will hop the curb and can smash into a house. If you cross the double line by going too far to the left, you will get into a head on collision with another car. However, if you stay on the 25

This article will be posted to the MBM blog on July 2, 2010 for you to comment on! http://www.mbmuslima.com/blog

straight, middle path, everything is calm and easy, and you will be on your way to the ultimate prize of jannah, inshaAllah. Both excessiveness and negligence are devastating.

Muslims may even leave the deen altogether. The second example, is the tashadud that someone puts upon themselves when they want to get closer to Allah (SWT). The deen in itself is not difficult â&#x20AC;&#x2022;Allah would not burden a soul more Prophet Muhammed (SAW) than it can bearâ&#x20AC;&#x2013; (Quran 2-286). Allah (SWT) is lenient when it comes to the specifically warned us about at deen. Here are some examples: if one tashadud (excessiveness in the cannot pray while standing, then he/she Deen). is permitted to pray while sitting down. If There are two common examples of he/she cannot pray while sitting down, this. The most famous example is bidaa, then he/she can pray while lying down. If which is promoted by people who want to one is sick and cannot fast, then he/she make themselves special by having folcan break their fast. If one is travelling, lowers. These individuals add things to he/she can shorten the four rakaah the deen that Allah (SWT) never manprayer to only two rakaahs. Here is an dated upon Muslims. These things inanalogy to help understand the detriclude adding prayers, nawafel, tasibeeh. ment one puts on them self when they When this happens, the deen becomes are excessive. Allah (SWT) created the heavy and difficult and this results in nature of mankind like a rubber band. If Muslims resenting the deen. In addition, one pulls the rubber band too far to one 26

Extremism? * Adapted from a speech from Imam Moustafa Zayed

extreme, it is going to snap back, and when it snaps back it does not go back to normal, it goes to the opposite side. What do I mean by the opposite side? Allah (SWT) knows the nature of mankind. If an individual adds excessive things such as extra prayers, and nawafel that burden themselves, he knows an individual would do it for a certain period of time. However, once things get too difficult, they would snap back (like the rubber band) to the other side, which is not praying or doing nawafel at all. Prophet Muhammed (SAW) said ―do not go to extremes in the deen, for when you do, Allah (SWT) would bring extreme conditions upon yourself ‖. A major example, Allah (SWT) gave advice to the people of the scripture 1400 years ago in Surat al Maida ―oh people of the scripture do not go to extremes in the religion, and do not claim things upon Allah (SWT) that are mandated upon people, that Allah (SWT) did not say and did not mandate‖. Here are some examples of how humans went to extremes in the religion by making others do things that Allah (SWT) did not mandate. 400 years after Prophet Jesus (PBUH) was raised to Allah (SWT), people said that in order to be a righteous man one has to live in a monastery in isolation, and in harsh conditions. 1200 years after that, the people of the scriptures decided that priests should be celibate and not have families. Other changes in the scriptures include,

allowing people to eat pork, use riba (interest), these changes led to what is known as the dark ages in Europe. 1300 years ago in Italy, the birthplace of the Vatican, people were praying that the Muslims would come in and occupy Italy so they could implement the fairness of the Islamic social systems. These Christians were praying for this because they were under absolute oppression from the church. The church was collecting unbelievable amounts of taxes, claiming that this was Jesus’ (PBUH) money. Therefore, it is clear that these individuals took the religion to an extreme. If we look at the results of this extremism, we find out that 84% of Europeans today do not believe in God, and a majority of the Europeans who do believe in God are Muslims. Religion is dying in Europe, specifically Christianity, and one of the main reasons for this is because they took the religion to a man made extreme. Now we already established that Islam is the religion of the middle—so how is a person supposed to find that balance to stay on the straight path? They can do that by following the text of the Quran. This is one of the absolute mercies that Allah (SWT) had on mankind. Allah (SWT) gave us a religion that is apparent and clear. If we follow the verses, and hadeeths, we will be on the straight path. People deviate from the straight path when they change things for their own desires. The following 27

hadith helps Muslims understand the ease of our deen. At the time of Prophet Muhammed (SAW), when two men were walking in the desert, prayer time came in and there was no water to be found. The ruling in Islam is that if one cannot find water then he/she is permitted to make tayyamun. The tayyumun replaces wudu and that person will get the exact same reward for his prayers. So both of the men made tayamun, then prayed. When the men got back to Madinah they found water, one of the men made ablution and prayed again, while the other did not. Both of the men came to the Prophet (SAW) and told him about the situation. The Prophet (SAW) told the man who prayed twice that he will get twice the reward, and then the Prophet told the other man that he has fulfilled the sunnah. Allah (SWT) made everything easy on us, so, in a situation like this, if one prays again he will get double the reward, however, it is not mandated upon him. It is actually preferred to fulfill the Sunnah instead. The following hadith shows how the Prophet (SAW) warned against things like this. Prophet Muhammed (SAW) sent two

men to open the country of Yemen to Islam Moaz Ibn Jabal and Abu Moosa Al Ashaary. The Prophet (SAW) told them â&#x20AC;&#x2022;make it easy for people, and do not make it difficult, tell people about the glad tidings more than the punishment of Allah (SWT)â&#x20AC;&#x2013;. The Prophet (SAW), told them to speak about hellfire, but he wanted them to speak about jannah more. The Prophet (SAW) also informed them to be cooperative and lenient towards the people of Yemen. In this hadith, Prophet Muhammed (SAW) warns about the dangers of making the deen difficult, and resentful. The Prophet (SAW), told Moaz Ibn Jabal that you are about to enter a country of people of the scriptures. Muhammed (SAW) said this because prophets have been in Yemen before. The Prophet (SAW), said invite them to say the shahadah. If they accept Islam, then tell them there are five prayers a day obligated upon them. The Prophet (SAW) then said if they accept the five prayers, then tell them that there is an obligated charity upon them for the poor. Another example is the fiqh of the caliph Omar Ibn Abdul

Aziz. His son came to him and said ―these new people to Islam, I do not see you applying Islamic law upon them immediately? Why is that if they already accepted Islam? They should be under the law of Islam.‖ Omar Ibn Abdul Aziz responded to him by saying, ―they are new to Islam, and they do not know yet. I am afraid that if I impose all Islamic laws upon them that they would leave it all‖. Both of these examples show the ease, and gradualness of Islam. Some individuals believe that if they make their deen difficult, and harsh upon themselves that they will get more of a reward from Allah (SWT).

and fasting when they can, Allah (SWT) will keep rewarding them for their good deeds. However, these extra prayers and fasts are not to be too harsh and exhausting upon a worshiper for Allah (SWT) left it to us as to when to stop. The wife of a pious Muslim, Abdullah Ibn Amr ibn Alaas came to the Prophet (SAW) and complained. She said that her husband was wearing himself down, as he used to fast everyday, then stay up all night praying. So, the Prophet (SAW) came to him and asked if this was true. Abdullah said yes. The Prophet (SAW) told him ―do not do that. Fast some days, and break your fast some days. Pray parts of the night, and sleep parts of the night. For your This is absolutely wrong, as in body has a right upon you, you’re your Islam an individual gets the same reward from Allah (SWT) from obey- eyes have a right upon you and your wife ing him in the easy obligations, and has a right upon you‖. This means that Allah (SWT) gave you that body to do the difficult ones. righteous deeds, Allah (SWT) did not give Some individuals also believe that you that precious eyesight so you can Allah (SWT) values the word haram more wear it down by reading Quran all night. than the word halal. This is also a false Allah (SWT) blessed you with a good wife, statement. If someone tells someone and she has a right upon you that you else that milk is haram, it is just as sinful should interact with her and fulfill her and punishable as saying drinking alcorights. hol is halal. The obedience of Allah (SWT) These are two examples of excesis what matters. It does not matter how siveness that people brought upon themeasy, or difficult a ruling is. selves, that was not mandated. As Aisha (RA) came to Prophet Muslims, we should do as much Muhammed (SAW), and told him that a additional good deeds as we can, as long woman named al Howla Bint Tuwait, as it is not too much of a burden upon stands up all night praying to Allah ourselves. (SWT). Muhammed (SAW) was surprised One of the days of Eid-al-Adha, upon hearing this, as this was something people came to Muhammed (SAW), and that he himself did not do. So, Muhamas we know, hajj is a sequence of acmed (SAW) ordered all Muslims to ―take tions. They then said that they performed from your religion what you can bear‖. some of the actions out of sequence. This means that as long is one is praying 29

The Prophet (SAW) told every one of them that who did it out of sequence, that inshaAllah it will be accepted. This shows that Islam is the deen of Yusr and ease. The Prophet (SAW) used to tell everyone who was in charge of a certain group of people (i.e. their family, or their business) that they are responsible for these people before Allah (SWT). The Prophet (SAW) used to supplicate to Allah (SWT) ―oh Allah by your power whoever had the responsibility of any part or any group of people in my nation, and made things difficult upon them, then make it difficult for that person‖ In this supplication, the Prophet (SAW) is asking Allah (SWT) that if anyone makes things difficult on a group of people (I.E. telling them that extra prayers are mandated, when Allah SWT did not mandate them himself.) then Allah should make things difficult for the person who did that. In this same supplication, the prophet (SAW) said ―and whoever had the same responsibility upon people in my nation, and was gentle, and kind with them, Oh Allah (SWT) I am asking you to be kind and gentle with him on judgment day.‖ This supplication helps us in understanding the importance of not being extreme upon people. It also helps us to understand the importance of being kind and gentle with people. The following hadith also stresses the importance of kindness and gentleness in Islam ―Allah (SWT) is gentle and kind, and he likes gentleness and kindness in all matters‖ An additional hadith shows how Islam is a religion of kindness, and strictly forbids vio-

lence and extremism. ―Allah (SWT) rewards for mercy, kindness, and gentleness, what he does not reward for violence.‖ If one were to study the Seerah, and hadiths of Prophet Muhammed (SAW), they would find out that everything is a pursuit of mercy and spreading peace. The following hadith backs this statement up: ―you will never get into jannah unless you believe in Allah (SWT), and you will not be believers until you love each other. Should I tell you about that one thing that if you do, you would have that love amongst yourselves‖ All of the companions said yes, oh prophet of Allah tell us. So the Prophet (SAW) said ―spread peace amongst yourselves‖. Let us use three examples of the most fundamental part of our deen, which is Salah. One time, a bedouin heard about Islam, so he walked a very long distance and asked where the Muslims were. So, the people who he asked, pointed to the masjid, where Muhammed (SAW), and his companions were. The man had walked a very long distance and as a result, he had to urinate. The man was not a Muslim, therefore, he knew nothing about the deen. So, the most suitable place in his mind to urinate was the makam. The man went to the makam and started urinating. Everyone was shocked. The companions stood up and wanted to kill the man. They knew that obviously, he was not a Muslim, so they thought he was a kafir who came to disgrace the Muslims with the most foul of liquids were the Prophet 30

You can E-mail Brother Kyle Smith at

sptiger51@yahoo.com to ask him any questions. Jazakum Allahu Khairun. (May Allah reward you for the good) stands to lead prayers. So what did the prophet Muhammed (SAW) do? He stopped the companions, and said ―do not beat him up‖. Muhammed (SAW) did not yell at the man, he didn’t ask him what are you doing? He waited for the man to finish urinating, because he knows that it would be painful for the man to stop him. Then he told the companions to get a bucket of water, which they dumped where the man urinated. Then the Prophet (SAW) sat the man down, and he spoke to the man with absolute kindness. He did not ask the man why he did that. Instead, he told him about the deen: ―this is what is clean, and this is what is not clean‖. Then he told him about Islam. Upon hearing about Islam, the man took shahadah. Since the companions treated the man with harshness, the man said ―oh Allah have mercy upon me, and Prophet Muhammed (SAW), and do not have mercy upon anyone else‖. The man said this because the Prophet (SAW) treated him with the utmost kindness, despite what he did.

A second example was during the most important prayer of the week, jummah prayer. The Prophet Muhammed (SAW) was giving a khutba. A man who wanted to learn about Islam interrupted Muhammed (SAW). The man said ―I am a man from not around here, and I want to learn about my religion‖. What did the prophet (SAW) do? Did he say don’t you see I am giving a speech, why don’t you wait? No, he did not. Instead, he stopped the khutba to tell the man about Islam. He sat down with the man, answered all his questions, and the man took shahadah. After the man took shahadah, Muhammed (SAW) finished the khutba. Keep in mind that at the time, this man was a non Muslim. The Prophet Muhammed (SAW) gave importance to people more than anything else, whether they were Muslim or not. A 3rd example was when Muslims were praying. One man who was new to Islam, heard that when someone sneezes, it’s a right upon the Muslims to say yarhamakum Allah. During the prayer, the man heard someone sneeze, 31

so he said yarhamakum Allah. The man did not know that you are not supposed to talk during prayers, because talking takes one out of salah. All of the companions looked at him harshly—but what did the Prophet (SAW) do? He finished the prayer, and then sat the man down speaking to him with the utmost kindness. He told the man ―our prayers are not something where people can talk. It is only praising Allah (SWT), takbir, and reading Quran.‖ These three examples show how the Prophet (SAW) dealt with people in one of the most important things in the deen. Being that prayers are of the utmost significance, one would think that it is ok to yell at someone. However, the prophet did not yell, instead he treated these people with the utmost kindness and gentleness. So what makes people harsh and extreme in the religion? History always shows that the following three things are the reason for extremism in the religion. The first thing is that people are totally ignorant of the religion. If these people knew the correct hadith, and seerah of Muhammed (SAW), they would never yell at anyone, or make things harsh upon people or themselves.

The second reason is, sometimes people come from harsh environments. These harsh environments create harshness in people.

The third reason is sometimes people are hard to deal with, that is just the makeup of their psychology, Therefore, what is the solution to all of this? It is to learn the deen, and the deen is the text. We should apply the deen as it is. As stated earlier, with the example about the two men in the desert, both tayyumun and ablution are permissible. In situations like this, we should not add difficulty upon ourselves. The deen is easy. Since the deen is easy, and has a kind and caring nature, it is no wonder why Islam is the fastest growing religion in the world. As I stated earlier, there are people in Islam who do horrendous acts in the name of Islam. I also stated that this happens in any religion. I believe that this article has made it clear that those acts are far away from the teachings of Islam, which is the text of the Quran, and Muhammeds’ (SAW) quotations. Finally, I would like to conclude with saying that when one judges a religion, they should not judge it by its people (unless the person is a prophet), but rather by the religion itself.

Islam is perfect but humans are not. 32

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CALYX & PRIMULA AT THE INACRAFT 2010 (April 21-25, 2010) The Inacraft 2010 which was held at the Jakarta Convention Centre, was quite a big success for me, alhamdulillah. Inacraft, the biggest handmade craft exhibition in Indonesia, was jammed packed with visitors from day one to the end. As an Indonesian crafter, I am proud that people appreciate our handmade goods that much. In this exhibition, I displayed my second line, Calyx, the brand for the young and young at heart. I also brought my primary brandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s products, Primula, as well. For the first time, I also produced practical jersey hijabs for teens and kids. My intention was to help introduce hijab to the youngsters.

Calyx most popular and most purchased item was the multi function backpack. It can be worn as a backpack, messenger bag or over sized clutch.

Other Calyx creations were the multi function bags, which can be worn as a shoulder bag, wristlet or belt bag. Because it is roomy enough for 2 diapers and a tube of cream, it was also can be worn as a diaper clutch.

Primula’s hottest item was the Primula minaudiere. As Primula’s signature, the detachable handle can be worn as a necklace. It was sold out on day two.

At this event, I also introduced a new site for my Calyx line:

www.calyxhandmade.blogspot.com. We had a good time at the Inacraft 2010. Not only did we have a good number of sales, but we also met fellow Indonesian crafters with their unique products, whom happened to be my online friends as well.

I shared the booth with my buddy, Pia, with her line Idys. Her best purchased item was the kid praying mat that can be folded into a bag which makes it will easier for children to carry it everywhere.

How are you going to receive MBM updates if you aren’t on our mailing list? =)

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The great women of Islam This brand new column in MBM was inspired by Sister Arifa from NJ. Below, you will see a list of the women of Islam that were promised Jannah. In each issue, there will be a spotlight on each one of these extrodinary women. Khadijah (RA) Saudah bint Zam’ah (RA) ‘Aishah (RA) Hafsa bint ‘Umar (RA) Zainab bint Khazeemah (RA) Umm Salamah (RA) Zainab bint Jahash (RA) Jawayriah bint Harith (RA) Safiyyah bint Huyayee (RA) Umm Habibah Ramlah bint Abi Sufyan (RA) Maimoonah bint Harith Al-Hilaliah (RA) Fatimah bint Muhammad (RA) Fatimah bint Asad (RA)

Umm Rooman (RA) Summaiyah bint Khabat (RA) Umm Haram bint Malhan (RA) Asma bint Abu Bakr Siddique (RA) Umm Sulaim bint Malhan Ansariah (RA) Umm Ammarah Naseebah (RA) Ar-Rabee bint Mauwth (RA) Faree’ah bint Malik (RA) Umm Hisham bint Harithah bint Nu’man Umm Salamah Asma bint Yazid bin Sakan Ansariah (RA) Umm Sa’d Kabshah bint Rafi Ansariah (RA) Umm Waraqah bint Abdullah bin Harith Ansariah (RA) Umm Aiman (RA)

The following feature is about Sumayyah bint Khabat Photograph: Jenny Ben Joud | Dreamstime.com

Sumayyah bint Khabat By Sarah Essa Sumayyah bint Khabat was one of the first seven people to be enlightened by Islam and swear allegiance to the Prophet (SAW). She is one of the greatest women Companions. Sumayyah was a slave girl to Abu Huthaifah. Sumayyah was described as a very intelligent and sensible girl. Abu Huthaifah was a very kind, loving, and generous man. When three brothers, Yasir, Harith, and Malik, set out from Yemen to Makkah in search for its culture and to participate in social activities, they became companions/partners to Abu Huthaifah. Sumayyah was soon married to Yasir, and it was a happy marriage. Abu Huthaifah liberated the family from bondage; but he continued to keep good terms with them and he helped them with money. Sumayyah and Yasir soon had a son, who they named Ammar. They later had two more sons, named Abdullah and Hareeth. The latter was murdered before Islam, and this tragedy was the beginning of the ill fortune that started to haunt the family. Sumayyah, her husband, and her son Ammar, were targets for the cruelty of the Quraish. The Prophet (SAW), saw them being put through the worst torture possible. The Prophet (SAW), was so helpless, that there was not any way he could rescue them. He comforted them with prayers to Allah to save the family of Yasir from the fire of Hell, and told them they would go to Paradise. Sumayyah bint Khabat was given the worst kind

of punishment from Abu Jahl. After she bluntly refused from him pressuring and threatening her. In out of rage, he thrust his spear into her. This proved to be a fatal throw, and she died. Sumayyah bint Khabat was the first woman martyr of Islam. Sumayyah’s death took place seven years before Hijrah, and her husband fell to the victim to the torture of the Quraish, and he died as well. Ammar took a special place in the affections of the Prophet (SAW), after the martyrdom of his parents. The prophet (SAW) called him lovingly as Ibn Sumayyah. The Prophet (SAW) spoke of the family of Yasir in the highest terms of praise. Abdullah bin Mas’ood says the Prophet (SAW) once said that when disputes appeared the people, Ibn Sumayyah would always stand by the right and just. This family gave up their lives to free the truth, and also to earn rewards for the Hereafter. It is about people like these that Allah says, ―Verily, Allah has purchased of the believers their lives and their properties for (the price) that theirs shall be Paradise. They fight in Allah’s cause, so they kill (others) and are killed. It is in promise in truth which is binding on Him in the Taurat ad the Injeel and the Qur’an. And who is truer to His convenant then Allah? Then rejoice in the bargain that you have concluded. That is the supreme success.‖ (9:111)

By Fida BIO: Fida is a multicultural poet and chocoholic. She also blogs at http://fida17.wordpress.com/ *Beauty of Islam by Fida I* Islam is peace and love, full of truthâ&#x20AC;Ś Islam is the hijab a flag, telling us to be modest to be proud. Islam is giving a special bond with God and the Ummah.

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For Married Muslimahs:

A blog about Islamic marriage written by a fellow Muslim sister.

Photographer: Sameh Abdallah www.samabdallah.com

http://tightknot.wordpress.com/

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’s

SUCCESS GUIDE FOR THE COLLEGE MUSLIMAH. MBM Colum Inspired by Sister Glory Ali from NJ. JazakAllahu Khair Sister.

A new regular column in MBM, The Success Guide for the College Muslimah will feature a top ten in each issue. In this issue, we will be looking at

“10 tips for fresh graduates”

Future issues will provide tips for Muslimas that are : - High school seniors - Graduating seniors - School during Ramadan & much more.

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This article will be posted to the MBM blog on July 6, 2010 for you to comment on! http://www.mbmuslima.com/blog

10 tips for fresh

Networking. This is a very important aspect of life post graduation. No one is going to come knocking on your door trying to hand you an opportunity.

3 4

Stay in touch. With everyone! Professors, fellow alumni, faculty, staff, etc.

Keep your resume up to date. And polished! Ask your career services about resume workshops, critiquing, etc.

Get involved. Were you really involved in college? Make sure to remain that way after college. Join professional networks, volunteer at non profits, and stay in touch with your MSA and help them out.

Attend halaqas, classes, etc. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t let graduating stop you from going to all the Islamic classes and events that you used to!

graduates. By Yasmin Essa

Make duaa. Self explanatory. =)

Be flexible. Realize you may not get your dream position right away. However, everything you do get is from Allah SWT and is good for you.

8 9

Be optimistic Whether you plan to work, go to graduate school, or do something else, optimism will continue to be helpful.

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Pray. Prayer is directly linked with success. It wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t matter what job or position you gain if you are not successful in the eyes of Allah SWT.

Figure out what you want to do. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not easy, but you need a game plan! Also remember that this might change. Keep the planning of Allah SWT close to your heart. 47

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Is your kitchen halal? Turn “my halal kitchen” into “your halal kitchen”. Photograph: Michelle Meiklejohn / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Visit myhalalkitchen.com for all your halal needs.

Thai Recipes By Yvonne Maffei from

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Thai Coconut Soup Pad Thai

Grilled Skirt Steak with Thai Chili Dipping Sauce Courtesy of www.myhalalkitchen.com ÂŠ Copyright My Halal Kitchen 2008-2010. No reproduction or redistribution of this recipe is permissible without the express written consent of the Editor of My Halal Kitchen. 50

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This soup is perfect for a summertime lunch. It's light and goes well with a salad, sandwich or Asian noodles on the side. You don't have to go out to a Thai restaurant to enjoy this dish when you see how easy it is to make yourself using this recipe. Makes 4-6 servings

Ingredients · · · · · · · · · · · ·

1 lb. shrimp, peeled and cleaned 2 cans coconut milk 2 cups water 1 small piece ginger, grated or cut into small pieces (about 2 tablespoons) 1 stalk lemongrass, cleaned and cut lengthwise (edible parts only) 1 lb. Shiitake mushrooms, roughly chopped ¼ cup fresh lime juice 3 tablespoon fish sauce ¼ cup brown sugar 1 teaspoons chile powder 1 tablespoon green onions (scallions) 1 teaspoon dried red pepper flakes

Directions 1. Boil shrimp for one minute. Remove immediately and drain. 2. Into a large saucepan add the coconut milk and two cups water. Heat on medium flame. 3. Add the ginger and lemongrass to the coconut milk and cook for ten minutes. Strain the mixture, discarding the ginger and lemongrass. 5. Bring the coconut milk back to the flame. Add the mushrooms and simmer for five minutes. Remove from heat. 6. Stir in the lime juice, fish sauce and brown sugar. Mix well to dissolve the sugar. 7. Upon serving, season with a speck of curry powder, cut green onions, and a few red pepper flakes.

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Pad Thai I first saw Pad Thai being made on the Martha show by Food Blogger, Pim Techamuanvivit, of Chezpim.com. It looked delicious and simple. After a bit of research I discovered that there are many variations of Pad Thai. I looked up a few recipes as a base and adapted it to my own tastes and ingredients easily available to me. You can do the same with this recipe. Makes 4 servings

Ingredients - 8 ounces dried flat rice noodles, 1/8‖ thick - ¼ cup packed light-brown sugar - 3 tablespoons white vinegar - 3 tablespoon Asian fish sauce - 3 tablespoons molasses - ¼ teaspoon coarsely ground dried pepper flakes, or to taste - 1 tablespoon dried shrimp, minced - Kosher salt - 4 ounces sugar snap peas, cut in half - 2 tablespoons sesame oil - 2 shallots, minced - 2 large garlic cloves, minced - 12 medium shrimp, peeled and cleaned - 3 scallions (green parts only), very thinly sliced lengthwise - 1 tablespoon roasted peanuts - 1 lime, quartered lengthwise, for garnish - a few fresh cilantro sprigs, for garnish

Directions 1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside. 2. Meanwhile, combine ¼ cup water, the sugar, vinegar, fish sauce, molasses, and dried chilies in a small saucepan. Simmer, stirring, for 5 minutes. Remove from heat; add dried shrimp. Set aside. 3. Cover and bring a medium saucepan of salted water to boil. Add the sugar snap peas and cook for 1½ minutes, just to blanch. Drain and set aside. 4. Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the shallots and garlic, and stir-fry for 2 minutes. Stir in the sugar mixture, and reduce heat to the lowest possible setting. 5. In another large nonstick skillet, cook the shrimp over medium-high heat, 3 minutes per side. 6. Add the cooked noodles and the scallions to the hot shallot mixture. Raise heat to high, and boil, stirring, for 2 minutes. Add the shrimp and sugar snap peas, and stir for 1 minute more. 7. Meanwhile, dry roast the peanuts in a small pan, 1-2 minutes, watching them carefully so they do not burn. 8. Next, turn out the noodles onto a platter and sprinkle with the peanuts and fresh cilantro leaves. Serve with quarters of lime for individual squeezing on top of the Pad Thai. Recipe adapted from The Martha Stewart Living Cookbook.

Photographs: Pad Thai/ Adventurestock | Dreamstime.com Peanuts/ Robert Lerich | Dreamstime.com

Grilled Skirt Steak with Thai Chili Dipping Sauce

I really love this recipe for its simplicity and the unique flavor combinations, which I normally don't get a chance to cook with. If you're in the mood for something grilled and something Makes 4 servings

Steak Ingredients - 8 oz. skirt steak (you can also ask for arrachera, a type of Mexican-style cut which is most commonly available in halal butcher shops) - 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Marinade Ingredients - 2 oz. oyster sauce - 1 garlic clove, peeled and finely minced - 1 cup sugar

Dipping Sauce Ingredients - Âź cup fish sauce - Âź cup lime juice - 1 teaspoon garlic - 1 teaspoon sugar - 1 teaspoon red chili, crushed

Marinade Directions 1. Combine all ingredients. 2. Marinate for 15 minutes only or steak will be too salty.

Dipping Sauce Directions Combine all ingredients.

Steak Directions 1. Add red pepper flakes to raw steak. Place steak on an indoor grill or outdoor grill over direct heat. Grill 4 minutes on each side. 2. When done, serve each individual with his/her own small cup of dipping sauce. (Alternatively, pour dipping sauce over steak before serving.)

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Custom Embroidered Halal Kitchen Aprons

Get your very own beautifully designed, custom embroidered halal kitchen aprons.

It’s fully covering for the messiest jobs in the kitchen and a comfortable cotton-polyester mix washes well on the delicate cycle of youar washing machine. $20 each (tax included) Pre-order your apron today and pick up at the ISNA Convention. July 3-4. Rosemont, IL. Pick-up times are: Saturday, July 3 from 7-8 pm or Sunday, July 4 from 7-8 pm at the Halal Healthy booth (#1900), unless special arrangements are made. To schedule a different pick up time, please email contact@myhalalkitchen.com and write ―Apron pick-up‖ in the subject line. Cash or check only accepted at ISNA. All other orders may be made via paypal after July 7, 2010.

Join Yvonne Maffei, Chef & Editor of My Halal Kitchen as she demonstrates how to make delicious summertime appetizers and talk kitchen tips with guests. Drop in for free kitchen gadgets and more. What's on the menu? Rice Paper Rolls with Shrimp & Mango Stuffing and an Orange-Lime Asian Sauce for Dipping Baked Phyllo Cups Filled with Sauteed Mushrooms & Warmed Goat Cheese

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ISNA Annual Convention, Rosemont Convention Center (Bazaar) 5555 N. River Road Rosemont, IL

7pm on both Sat. & Sun. July 3-4 55

Click here to visit the Dua Club!

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Assalamu Alaykum, Alhamdulilah, we have launched â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Dua Clubâ&#x20AC;? on our new blog (mbmuslima.com/blog) At The Dua Club, will be able to post requests for duas from your sisters and brothers in Islam. Simply leave a comment requesting other Muslims to do dua for you inshaAllah. You may specify the reason you would like dua if you wish. Also, please read the requests of others and please make dua for them. There have already been posts, so please go check them out. Although MBM is a magazine and blog for Muslim women, this will be a club open to both males and females. JazakAllah khair.

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QURâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;AN CHALLENGE Each issue, MBM will choose one Surah that we challenge our readers to memorize completely within a month's span. This issueâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s challenge is Surah Al-Humazah MBM is currently focusing on smaller Surahs to encourage those who are new to Islam, inshaAllah.

On the following page, you will find the Translation and Transliteration of Surat Al-Humazah. MBM wishes you all good luck to memorize this, inshaAllah!

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Surah Al-Humazah Translation Credit: http://noblequran.com/translation/surah89==104.html Transliteration Credit: http://www.islambasics.com/view.php?bkID=30&chapter=104

In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful Bismi Allahi alrrahmanialrraheemi 1. Woe to every slanderer and backbiter. Waylun likulli humazatin lumazatin 2. Who has gathered wealth and counted it, Allathee jamaAAa malan waAAaddadahu 3. He thinks that his wealth will make him last forever! Yahsabu anna malahu akhladahu 4. Nay! Verily, he will be thrown into the crushing Fire. Kalla layunbathanna fee alhutamati 5. And what will make you know what the crushing Fire is? Wama adraka ma alhutamatu 6. The fire of Allah, kindled, Naru Allahi almooqadatu 7. Which leaps up over the hearts, Allatee tattaliAAu AAala al-af-idati 8. Verily, it shall be closed in on them, lnnaha AAalayhim mu/sadatun 9. In pillars stretched forth (i.e. they will be punished in the Fire with pillars, etc.). Fee AAamadin mumaddadatin

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In the Name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful

Heart Health 101 By Morium Akthar, MD Heart disease is the leading cause of death in this country, and heart attacks play a large role in this picture. However, many heart attacks are preventable. There are instances when heart attacks have a familial role, but even some of these can be preventable, due to their relationship with cholesterol, blood pressure, and the available medications. Some of these ways are to eat healthy(not necessarily to diet), exercise, and visit a doctor regularly who can assist you in determining your risk for heart disease. Most people think that you are prone to heart attacks only if you are overweight. However, there are people with a normal body max index, who may have very high cholesterol levels and not know it until they have a heart attack, that is why I stressed going to the doctor regularly. To further expand upon my point: you may have seen or heard of athletes, most commonly, football players who are out on the field, suddenly collapse and die(even when they have not been tackled or pushed in any way). This is basically a heart attack, but it is not due to cholesterol, eating unhealthy foods, etc. It is due to a structural problem within the heart which is familial, and often occurs with physical exertion. If a doctor thinks a person is at risk for this, he/she will keep a close eye on this patient and follow the patient regularly, and treat if needed. So my point with these is to show you that even though certain conditions have a familial role, you can still have a role in prevention. Of course, this is only by the will, permission, and guidance of Allah(SWT). Signs, Symptoms, Risk Factors: You need to put it all together The main process which causes a heart attack is cholesterol build-up in coronary arteries which are prevented from supplying oxygen and nutrients in the blood to the heart. Increased cholesterol can be from the food a person eats, a familial predisposition to having high cholesterol levels, or due to a chemical imbalance even if they eat healthy. In addition, spasms of those blood vessels can be a cause of heart attacks as well. Cocaine and smoking are one of the most common causes of coronary artery spasm leading to a heart attack. Other medical conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, sickle cell disease, increased amounts of stress, and having had strokes in the past are risk factors as well. If you have ever had angina(sharp, needle-like, sensations over your left chest, which is relieved by rest or certain medications), this is a good predictor of coronary artery disease, which can lead to a heart attack. Remember, angina can be caused not only by cholesterol, but also by drugs, stress, or coronary spasms. Other risk factors include: not being able to tolerate moderate amounts of exercise, being overweight, smoking, a family history of heart attacks, and unhealthy eating habits.

The most common signs and symptoms of a heart attack include chest pain, heaviness, or tightness that lasts over thirty minutes(not relieved with rest). These can radiate to the left arm, face, and back. Many people can also experience nausea, vomiting, sweating, anxiety, passing out, among many other non-specific symptoms. There are many times when all of these symptoms will not exist, some may just have some shoulder pain. There are also atypical signs and symptoms as well, which are common among females who are mid-aged and older, who may only have some nausea, sweating, and anxiety. Did you know that there are many people who have had what is called a ―silent heart attack?‖ This basically means that the person had a heart attack, but it was not big enough to cause many symptoms, so the person did not know, or ignored the symptoms and did not seek medical attention. However, these can add up, and it can even take a second silent heart attack to cause dire consequences. In addition, a panic attack can show many of these same signs and symptoms, so can a pulled muscle over a person’s chest wall. This is why it can be difficult for a person to know if they are having a heart attack or not, and whether he/she should go to the emergency room. More serious conditions such as a collapsed lung, aortic dissection(tearing of the aorta), or pulmonary embolism(blood clot in the lung) can present this way. This is why it is important to ―know your health history‖ and your risk, and put this together with the signs and symptoms you may be having. But it is always better to err on the side of being cautious and going to the emergency room or giving your doctor, ER, or EMS a call, rather than ignoring things. I can only give general guidelines in this article, as every person’s health is different, so this article should not be a cut-and-dry answer if a person needs to decide whether to go to the emergency room or not. But it should be a stimulus to open dialogue with your doctor. So it is best to talk to your primary doctor, who can tailor recommendations specifically for you, tell you specific things to look out for, and can prevent heart attacks from occurring. Emergency room doctors are busy and it is a fast-paced environment for acute problems, so they will not have time to sit and give you detailed guidance, so it is essential to have a primary care doctor. If you do not have a primary care doctor, there are many free clinics(search online, your local hospital) which a person can go to, and the new healthcare plan will hopefully make medical care more accessible to more people, if and when it is finally put into play. Overall, having healthy eating habits, exercising, being pro-active in your health maintenance, watching out for signs and symptoms, and taking care of other medical conditions are just some of the many things you can do. If your doctor has determined you are at increased risk for a heart attack he/she can prescribe medications for you. In contrast to other medical conditions, you can actually lower your levels of cholesterol, blood pressure, and glucose(it is high in diabetes). The only problem is that it may be more difficult for some than others to accomplish this. *Image from: http://www.healthspablog.org/2008/04/05/health-heart-attack-risk

If you have any questions, relating to this topic, or any other medical topics please feel free to email me: aktharm1@yahoo.com.

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