MBM Issue 14

magazine

The global magazine for Muslim women

September 2010

‫مجلة المسلمات الجميالت الملتزمات‬

Photograph: Dreamstime.com

Volume II Issue II

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Finally.

An evolution that Islam agrees with.

How did you evolve this Ramadan?

Let us know: admin@mbmuslima.com Photo Credit: Rachid Lamrabat www.lamrabat.be

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Contents

September 2010

In every Issue Words Explained for the non-Muslim..........…........................................................................Page 6 Editor's Letter……………………….……….....……………………………………………..Page 8 Grand Old Time ………………………………………………………………………………Page 18 For our French Readers………………………………………………………………………Page 15 Hakim and Leila……………………………………………………………………………… Page 21 Notes from Nazeeha: Family, Celebration & Unity ………………………………………...Page 28 Quran Challenge ……………………………………………………………………………..Page 52 Tafsir of Quran Challenge…………………………………………………………………... Page 54 Eid-ul-Fitr / Post-Ramadan Eid Mubarak from MBM …………………………………………………………………...…Page 3 How did you evolve this Ramadan? …………………………………………………………Page 4 Poem: Eid-ul-Fitr ………………………………………………………………………………Page 7 5 Ways to Enhance the Occasion of Eid …………………………………………………….Page 10 Productivity & the Post-Ramadan Experience……………………………………………... Page 12 For our French Readers………………………………………………………………………Page 15 Notes from Nazeeha: Family, Celebration & Unity ………………………………………...Page 28 Ramadan & Eid Recipes ……………………………………………………………………..Page 45 Poetry Poem: Eid-ul-Fitr ………………………………………………………………………………Page 7 Poem: "Blue" ………………………………………………………………………………...Page 30 Poem: "Unity" ………………………………………………………………………………..Page 31 Spotlight Features "Bismillah" ……………………………………………………………………………...……Page 20 Chatting with Moustafa Zayed, author of "The Lies about Muhammad" …………..……Page 22 Update with Emma Apple from MuslimasOasis.com ……………………………………...Page 56 Employment Editing Internship @ MBMuslima …………………………………………………………Page 34 Marketing Internship @ MBMuslima……………………………………………………... Page 35 Advertising Internship @ MBMuslima ……………………………………………………...Page 35 Now Hiring: Media Internship @ MBMuslima ……………………………………………..Page 36 Now Hiring: Part-Time Advertising Account Executive …………………………………….Page 37 © Copyright Modest Beautiful Muslima Magazine 2009-2010.

Reproduction or redistribution of anything from MBM requires proper credit to be given.

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Words Explained for the non-Muslim InshaAllah Simply translated from Arabic to English, InshaAllah means ‗God willing‘. This is a very commonly used phrase, as Muslims believe God has power over everything.

MashaAllah Simply translated from Arabic to English , MashaAllah means 'Whatever Allah (God) wills'. Often, it is used as an expression of delight or achievement.

JazakAllah khairan Simply translated from Arabic to English, jazakAllah khairun means ‗May Allah reward you for the good‖. This is commonly used to thank someone or to acknowledge someone‘s effort.

SubhanAllah In Arabic, SubhanAllah means ‗Glorious is Allah‖. This is used when praising God. It is also commonly used as a exclamation like ―Wow!‖.

Masjid The Masjid is simply the Arabic word for Mosque. Many Muslims refer to the Mosque as a Masjid. Masjids are primarily used for Salah (Prayer) Jummah prayer The Friday prayer services that Muslims attend weekly.

SWT: Subhana wa‟ta3la Arabic Praise used after the name of Allah meaning ‗glorious and exalted is He‖ Inna Lillahi wa inna ilayhi raa‟jiun: Surely we belong to Allah and to Him shall we return'. This is part of the Quran Surah (Chapter) Al Baqara. It is part of Ayah (Verse) 156 Hijab Headscarf prescribed to Muslim women for modesty purposes Shahadah Declaration of Islamic faith.

Assalamu Alaykum: May peace be unto you.

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Photograph: Charles Shapiro | Dreamstime.com

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By Fida I.

Believe it or not Ramadan is half way done...

15 days left to do what we do, fasting and praying waiting for a great feast with friends and family.

The celebration has come, we walk through the doors of the mosque clean and ready to pray we exchange hugs and gifts with friends a great day is about to begin.

Fida Islaih a multicultural poet

http://fida17.wordpress.com/

Photograph: Ioana Grecu | Dreamstime.com

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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, As we enter into the final days of Ramadan 1431, I am very happy to launch this issue, which alhamdulilah, has been blessed with some great content.

I chose the theme of Unity for this issue for a few reasons. During Ramadan, we are able to feel and experience a tremendous amount of unity, which in turn, strengthens our Iman and makes us better Muslims. With Ramadan ending, it is very common for this unity to dissolve. Sadly, when that happens, we lose the strength we gained. Unity is very important, not only in Islam, but in humanity. We must all stick together, in order to achieve a greater good, all for the sole sake of Allah SWT. None of us are perfect, but when we work with others, we collaborate into greatness. This does not just go for our Muslim brothers and sisters, but also for our brothers and sisters in humanity.

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Editor

As you flip through the pages with this issue, make yourself a promise that you will take in every word, with the hope of equating it into achieving unity amongst us all. I will do the same, inshaAllah.

Finally, I hope you all enjoy the wonderful Eid content provided by our wonderful writers. May you all have a safe, blessed, and wonderful Eid-ul-Fitr, inshaAllah.

Any good from this issue, 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. Enjoy the issue.

Assalamu Alaykum wa Rahmatullahi Wa Barakatu, Sister Yasmin

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Photo Credit: Zaharescu Mihaela Catalina | Dreamstime.com

Ways to Enhance the Occasion of Eid

By Nadia Ali

“Every people has its festival, and this is our festival.” ~ Hadith.

The beautiful month of Ramadan is almost over and soon it will be Eid. Here are a few tips to ensure you make the most of our festival holiday.

1. Ease Eid Cleaning Get the household in shape for Eid-ul-Fitr. Now is a great time to do as much cleaning as you can to keep you from struggling with major cleaning and fasting at the same time. For those of you who stay at home, use the days during your menses (since you are not fasting) and take on the big jobs like washing the drapes, tablecloth, sheets etc you intend to use on Eid day. Air out pieces of furniture, mattresses or armchairs that will be harder to move around once you return to fasting.

2. What‟s on the Menu?

Ask any muslimah what is the hardest part of the fasting month and she will tell you it‘s knowing what to cook! The kids like one thing and your husband another. So, before the headache of deciding what to cook for the blessed day of Eid arrives, sit down with the family and work out a menu. This will allow you to go grocery shopping before hand, ensuring you have a plethora of delicious dishes to satisfy everyone‘s appetite. mbmuslima.com

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3. Wrap Up Eid As a major festival you can decorate for the occasion, blow up balloons and hang banners. Nowadays, you can even buy Eid festive packs which have specially marked Eid goodies. Otherwise, you can simply choose to display the celebration through your choice of a festive menu with a beautiful table setting to allure family and friends. Of course, don‘t forget to wrap up reasonable presents for the children, loved ones and something for those in need.

4. Dress Up From the decorative mehendi on your hands to the decision of what the family wears, dressing up for Eid is a pleasure. Start your day after Fajr to ensure you observe the sunnah by taking ghusl, eat dates/breakfast before attending the Eid prayers. While you are encouraged to wear something new, don‘t put yourself in extra expense. Remember, not to wear any of your brand perfumes to attend the Eid prayer, "When any of you comes to the mosque, she should not apply perfume." ~ Saheeh Muslim.

Ibn Al-Qayyim said, "The Prophet, (saw), used to wear his best clothes for the Eid prayers and he (saw) had clothes that he reserved for the two Eids and Jumu'ah." - Saheeh Muslim

5. Welcome Home Welcome guests with a fragrant scented candle or incense. Prophet Muhammad (SAW) loved scents in the mosque and at home. The sound of music can similarly enhance the atmosphere at home with either Qur‘anic recitation, dua‘s or even nasheeds.

The important thing to remember is that your home illuminates a humble abode where Islam was enhanced during the blessed month of Ramadan and where Eid-ul-Fitr will be enjoyed by the entire family.

Eid Mubarak!

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Courtesy of ProductiveMuslim.com

Productivity & the Post-Ramadan Experience Picture this.

A man joins the army. He is then inducted and put into an intensive and grueling training program. He develops his stamina, trains very hard, and becomes a disciplined member of his unit who the commander can rely upon.

What would you expect from this soldier once his training is complete? Would you expect him to be a liability to his unit? Would you expect him to lose his stamina due to laziness? Would you expect him to eschew his responsibility to defend his country?

I think not. And if he did any of these, he would either get himself killed, or get kicked out of the army.

Now let us apply this analogy to ourselves. We‘ve just finished our annual training regime. That‘s what Ramadan is, a month to train our mind, body and soul so that for the rest of the 11 months we might be able to live as practicing and productive Muslims.

But is that what happens in reality? Look around you. Just pop into the Masjid on the very next day after Ramadan and Eid. Where have all the Muslims gone? It is as though the ‗Ramadan Muslims‘ have gone back into hibernation, or have switched back to their alternate mode, aka ‗Friday Muslims. They‘ll be back in the Masjid, sure, but only for Jumu‘ah. If this is the result of a whole months training, do you think we deserve to call ourselves rightful members of the Muslim community? Do you think we become assets or liabilities for the community?

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Now if we're to apply this model of becoming unproductive post training, to our workplace or any other institution we might be part of, would we last there very long? I think not.

Our beloved Prophet (pbuh) once said that human activity followed a trajectory with a peak, and then a normalized level and that this normalized level represented our true state of being. It‘s easy to reach a peak of activity during the hype of Ramadan, but once that has past and it‘s just you back to your own normal lives, look at the extent to which we are living by the guidance of Allah and His messenger, for this is the true you. This is the true us.

Compare this true us as we are during the rest of the year, with who we were during Ramadan. That‘s basically how far off we are from how good we can be.

Allah has favored us by gifting us the blessed month of Ramadan. But this will be the last for some of us. And there is no guarantee whatsoever that any of us will live to see the next one.

If we were told that the most important exam of our life was going to happen anytime between today and next year when would we prepare for this exam? Would we assume that it‘s probably next year and not revise, or would we get revising straight away so that we are always prepared in case the exam came sooner than expected?

We all know what the wise thing to do would be. So without wasting anymore time, let us make ourselves a plan, set some goals, and get practicing what we trained for – to be productive and inspiring Muslims who are assets to the community. If we can do that, we will feel a difference in our lives, and our people will love us. And so will Allah.

This article was kindly contributed by Mr.Nabeel Al-Azami.

Al-Azami is a member of the Board of Directors of the Islamic Institute of Research and Development (www.iidr.org). He's also the Founder of Murabi Consulting (www.murabi.com).

ProductiveMuslim.com is a brand that inspires young Muslims to become Productive through Islam & applying the latest productivity techniques. It's an effort to revive Productivity in our Ummah through lessons extracted from the Quran, Seerah, and the history of the Islamic Civilization!

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A Litte R&R: Roles & Relationships

By Tayyaba Syed

If there is one thing that I miss that I don‘t have in my life, it is my grandparents.

My paternal grandfather passed away long before I was born, and both my grandmothers died when I was very young. As for my maternal grandfather, he was always very sick and never had the energy to interact with us. When he finally left this world as well, I was a young teenager and recall having shared only a few words with him.

Growing up I thought that was the case with all grandparents: they are old and frail and not any fun. It was not until I saw my father play and interact with his own grandchildren that I realized that is not true.

My niece and nephews would turn my dad into a horse, a bear trap, a tickle monster, a race car driver, a singer, and a comedian.

When my daughter was a toddler, she managed to turn him into a dancer. My dad was obsessed with kids especially his grandkids. He was the biggest kid of them all.

(May God rest his soul in peace).

My husband‘s parents are the same with their grandchildren. They become full of life and love when the little ones come over.

My daughter thinks her best friend is her grandmother. They can play together for

hours. My two-year-old is also in love with his grandparents. In his jibber jabber, he commands me to take him to their house as often as possible irrespective of the forty-five minute commute.

I am grateful to have gotten married young and have had kids early, so that my children may know and love their grandparents. Seeing your parents as grandparents puts a whole new light on your relationship with them as well as your love for them. You learn to respect your parents in a brand new way.

Background Image Credit: Dmitry Maslov | Dreamstime.com

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While parents get to do all the stress work and be disciplinarians, grandparents can simply enjoy being with their grandchildren. There is so much wisdom and life-experience that can be absorbed from one‘s grandparents. They have so much to offer if you are willing to take it.

If you are fortunate enough to still have your grandparents around, take advantage of the time you have with them. It is a very beautiful and precious relationship. The time that my kids got to spend with my father was short but still a blessing. We try to make the most of the time they spend now with my mother and my in -laws.

Recently, my daughter was a flower girl at a wedding and looked almost like a bride herself. Even though she is only five, her grandparents got all teary-eyed. They told me they probably will not be around for her wedding but know that she will make a beautiful bride one day. It was a bitter sweet moment for all of us.

Tayyaba S. Syed 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 19

“Bismillah”

Do you know an easy way to get rewarded?

All you have to do is say Bismillah before you do anything. It means ―in the name of Allah.‖ By starting with Allah‘s name, we turn our actions into worship. There is true success in starting tasks with Bismillah.

The word ―Bismillah‖ brings a lot of blessings. Every chapter in the Holy Qur‘an starts with Bismillah, except chapter 9. It even starts the first ayah in the whole Qur‘an! It is that important to say and pleases Allah. You will feel closer to Him if you remember Him all the time.

There are other times you can say Bismillah. Remember to say it before you eat, before you take a test, before you sleep, before driving a car, and whenever you want something to go right.

I try to use Bismillah as often as possible. Last Ramadan I was so scared to ride my bike without training wheels. I was crying a lot. Then I decided to say Bismillah. I learned to ride my bike very quickly and easily. Now I am not scared to ride my 2wheeler bike anymore.

It works for me for sure, so I know it will work for you. You should always ask for Allah‘s help. Just say His name, and He will help you in what you are doing. In hadith it says, ―Any important work that does not begin with Bismillah is imperfect.‖ I hope now you know to always use Bismillah.

Image: Ender Cilgin|Dreamstime.com

Inayah Ali is only 7 years old. MashaAllah. This should serve as great motivation to get your children involved with MBM. E-mail admin@mbmuslima.com for details.

JazakAllah khair and may Allah SWT reward this wonderful child for initiating a beautiful endeavor. mbmuslima.com

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http://www.recesskids.com 21

Chatting Interview by Kyle Smith Kyle Smith: What first motivated you to write the book “The Lies About Muhammad”

Image Credit: Moustafa Zayed

Moustafa Zayed: I, as any Muslim was incensed by the deliberate campaign to demonize Islam and Muslims. However, as a scholar who knows how outrageous the lies are, it was even more difficult for me. One of the sisters who attends my weekly class brought to me the book "The Truth About Muhammad". She was upset with people pushing these kind of books unto Muslims saying "see this is Muhammad and Islam".

Smith: Wat new things did you discover while in the process?

Zayed: The easy way to refute lies about Islam and Muhammad was to list the well known fabrications and allegations about Islam and refute them one after the other. However, while reading Spencer‘s book, I realized it was much better to refute his book, paragraph by paragraph, to show how the twisting and omission of the truth is done in reality. The blatant belittling of the American reader‘s logic as well as the advantage that the most of them don‘t read Arabic and are not knowledgeable about the subject was appalling.

Smith: That is appalling. I want to go back to that topic a little bit later Insha‟Allah. What is the significance behind your book‟s cover?

Zayed: Well, we tried to make it in the same alley of design as the book I was refuting so visually readers will realize that it is related to his. Colors represent psychological meanings and his book design was screaming "Alarm" to me.

Background Image Credit: Juergen Barth | Dreamstime.com mbmuslima.com

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Smith: That‟s a very good idea. MashaAllah.

How much time did it take for you to finish it?

Zayed: About two years, I would have liked to finish it much earlier but I wasn‘t able to drop all my other obligations for it.

Smith: Well of course, especially since giving Dawah full time is no easy task. What did you enjoy most while writing this book?

Zayed: The sense that I am bringing the truth to the average American reader, who, if interested in the subject matter, is in real need for my book. Allah has giving me the ability to attempt the defense of His prophet and religion. I also have to say that writing this book has help me go through the unbearable abhorring lies about Islam and God. Smith: What are the biggest accusations against Islam that Mr. Spencer brings forth in his book “The Truth About Muhammad, founder of the world‟s most intolerant religion”?

Zayed: Well, is there any water in the Ocean?

Actually they are many. My conservative count comes to 154! Some are that the Quran is the word of Muhammad or other humans and not God! That the ―lone God of Muslims‖ is not the one mighty God of the of Old Testament, and that Muhammad was violently preoccupied by war booty, and that he was eager for people to certify him as prophet! Just to name very few fabrications.

verses about the issue of sexual deviance (Leean) in Surat Al Noor that takes the testimony of the wife exactly the same as that of the husband!

Smith: What sources did Spencer use to write his book?

Zayed: Spencer overwhelmingly relies on the most corrupted source of Seerah of Ibn Is'haq.

Not only does Ibn Is'haq himself say "only Allah knows which of the stories are correct or not.‖ On top of that, he almost picks only the well known fabricated ones that are not mentioned in any of the top six books of Quotations of the prophet. His tactics can be related that to a mechanism that enables the filtering of good dollars from bad ones out of a bag. Following the same analogy, Spencer intentionally avoids using that mechanism and even worse, he picks only the counterfeit ones!

Smith: In writing your book what was your ultimate goal?

Zayed: To show the truth about the Prophet and the religion. Most of all, my goal was to defeat the ultimate goal of Islamic bashers which is to hinder the exponential growth of Americans discovering the truth about their Creator and accepting Islam.

Smith: Can you please share with me an example of how these fabrications were made?

Zayed: Spencer claims that Islam mandates two male witnesses in the crime of rape to make sure that women victims are not vindicated! His proof is verse 282 in the Quran.

He only quotes the mandate in the verse of two male witnesses, after he omitted the first line in the verse that says‖ O, you believers when you take debts make sure to write them down‖. The verse has absolutely nothing to do with rape crimes or any crime for that matter.

It is impossible to find him quoting the specific

Smith: Where does Islamophobia originate?

Why is it such a huge problem?

Zayed: Americans and Muslims need to understand that especially after September 11, organized Islamophobia enabled the extreme right wing to push for the invasion of Iraq, that made our "offense" industry hundreds of billions

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Image Credit: Goh Siok hian } Dreamstime.com

of dollars. There is huge war that profits by requiring Islamophobia. In addition to the media bias for the above reasons as well as the severe lack of Islamic American Media, we as Muslims and scholars of Islam are responsible to get rid of this ignorance. Can you believe that in 2010, my book in is the only book in the English language that answers and defends Islam and the Prophet against all allegations? I was shocked to know that myself.

to have a collective budgets for defending Islam and Muslims as well as much bigger budgets for Dawah.

Smith: Thank you for your thoughts. Why do many Americans read books such as Spencerâ€&#x;s book and believe that what they read is true about Islam?

Zayed: It baffles me every time I think about it!

Smith: What can an average Muslim do about it?

Zayed: In a way, I wrote the book to be a support for such a start. If you read it, understand it and help Muslims or non-Muslims with it, then that would be great. But even if you don't have the sufficient knowledge to engage in a conversation about the subject, just hand it to whoever is deceived by that Islamophobia and ask them to read this book first and then get back to me. Most importantly as Muslims, we need to put pressure on the management of our Masjids and organizations

In our case, sworn enemies and bashers of Islam religion are what many people solely rely upon in learning about Islam! Yes, we know the media‘s inherent bias, but in fairness I would ask, where are the other alternatives for the average American? We severely lack Islamic media. I started with myself as the Prophet (PBUH) had ordered us. "The lies about

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Muhammad‖ is 400 pages of pure entertaining knowledge and it is there for the picking.

Smith: Why should everyone, Muslim and nonMuslim alike, read your book?

Zayed: First of all, you have to be aware of what harsh environment is woven out there, waiting to trap you and your children in the future. Secondly, in refuting the falsehood you strengthen the truth in your heart about your faith. Thirdly and most importantly, it is a body of knowledge that will enable you to at least defend the honor of Islam and the Prophet (PBUH), or even better, gain the great reward of making Dawah.

Smith: There are many other books that were written to defend Islam. Why did you think that your book was needed in addition?

Zayed: From the beginning, I wrote this book while keeping the average American reader in mind. Many scholars answered some of these allegations correctly but only from the one aspect of ―this is the Quranic verse and this is

the Hadeeth‖ so it is more or less your word against mine or your belief against my faith.

Even though I used the Quranic evidence and correct hadeeth as extensively as I could, I widened the evidence in my debate using history in general, the Bible, most credible testimonies of historical figures (most of which are not Muslim), as well as basic logic and common sense that would explain to anyone with a brain the laughable falsehood of the fabrications. I also added an index of allegations at the end of the book, so that things could be looked up fast, which could be used to defend something that was said to you. I want to also alert my Muslim brothers and sisters about the urgency of reading and using my book and other books others as well.

Any repeating the lie that goes without being refuted will make its way into the perception of the minds of others. This perception sadly turns into reality for most.

Smith: Why do most Muslims try to boycott events where Mr. Spencer speaks at? Or worse -- no one stands up to him or others like him. It is clear that you have taken a stand with your

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www.theliesaboutmuhammad.com book, but would you go even a step further in a possible debate if he would accept?

Zayed: I actually put it in the book that I am inviting him to a public debate any where any time if it is moderated fairly. The man has talents. Having examined the quality of his research, my only contention is that he and his likes should be in the creative arts fields窶馬ot research. I am being serious about that.

Image Credit: Moustafa Zayed

Smith: InshaAllah I look forward to that debate.

Where can people go to purchase the book?

Zayed: It is available on Amazon.com for $14.39. For anyone who would like to purchase a bulk order, go to www.theliesaboutmuhammad.com for more information.

Smith: JazakaAllah for taking the time to complete this interview with me, and for clearing up all these misconceptions.

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Finally.

An evolution that Islam agrees with.

How did you evolve this Ramadan?

Let us know: admin@mbmuslima.com Photo Credit: Rachid Lamrabat www.lamrabat.be

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By Sister Nazeeha

Image Credit: Tito Santos | Dreamstime.com

The joyous feeling of Ramadan is one of two holidays celebrated by Muslims. It lingers comfortably inside my mind, with no desire to be forgotten or replaced.

Certainly the blessings bestowed on us during the last few weeks have been numerous, and a true Mercy from Allah swt. As Ramadan leaves we no longer have the common thread of fasting. I enjoyed the feeling of being united. Not bound by culture or boarders窶ｦwe were simply Muslims. Our sacrifice and worship insha窶連llah were accepted and our rewards confirmed. The second holiday that is anticipated is immediately followed.

This wonderful farewell marks the end to Ramadan. Depending on where you live in the world the celebration can last

anywhere from one to three days. It is a time for family. A time to give thanks to Allah swt for all He has given us. This is a time for Muslims to return our blessings, through charity and zakat.

Eid al-Fitr starts well before sunrise. Families get dressed in their new outfits (if possible) and attend the early morning prayers at the Masjid. During this time we as a community offer the Eid prayer. We ask Allah swt for His continued blessings for the New Year.

Islam is based on submission to Allah swt and unity. Our families and community are the heartbeat of Muslim society. So naturally on this day we are advised to extend our circle of family. Visiting the homes of relatives and friends, sharing meals and conversation, add to the endless feelings of unity.

Now what would a celebration be without food. I am not talking about a light meal during the day; no this is a full sized feast for the senses! Sisters spend days in preparation

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of these delicious meals.

The aromas of family recipes fill the air.

Beautifully arranged platters of meats and fish line the tables. Every kind of salad, fresh made breads and sweets can be savored and enjoyed to the hearts delight.

Subhan Allah true unity surpasses family lineage. Once we say ―la ilaha illallah‖ we are forever united as brothers and sisters in Islam.

The Noble Qur‟an says: “O‟ Mankind, we created you from a male and female and made you into nations and tribes, that you may know each other.” (49:13)

So as we spend time in reflection, let us remember this feeling of the heart. Subhan Allah may we continue to see the best in one another and keep each other in our dua‘s.

“And hold fast, all of you together, to the Rope of Allah (i.e. this Qur‟an), and be not divided among yourselves, and remember Allah‟s Favor on you, for you were enemies one to another but He has joined your hearts together, so that, by His Grace, you became brethren (in Islamic Faith), and you were on the brink of a pit of Fire, and He saved you from it. Thus Allah makes His Ayat clear to you, that you may be guided. (3:103) .

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“Blue” Written by Nora Ali A student from Mariam Al-Kalby’s creative writing summer class.

Blue is the sound of crashing waves.

It’s the feeling of warm sand on your feet.

The taste of cold lemonade on a hot day.

Blue is the color of the sadness in a child’s eyes.

It’s the sound of the Imam reciting prayer.

Or the sun beaming on your head.

The feeling after a baby is born.

Blue is the light on my blanket when I’m sleeping.

It’s the sound of water dripping from the sink.

The nice feeling in your heart when you pray.

Or the smell of apple pie right out of the oven.

The feeling when you did something good.

It’s the sound of children laughing on Eid. And blue is the color of peace in the world.

Image Credit: Dragoneye | Dreamstime.com

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By Mariam Al-Kalby

Disagreements slip into agreements neighbors forge into families my Ummah becomes the entire Muslim world defending that one drop of Muslim blood one child‘s tear one mother‘s crushed soul carrying arms, fighting for heaven defending the truth through our voices and dying in the name of Allah the losses in this dunya pennies, families, life is the payment to the heavens to meet our Lord

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: Summersea | Dreamstime.com

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www.HABIBIHALAQAS.org

When you educate a man, you educate a single person.

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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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MBMuslima Magazine is a global contemporary magazine for Muslim women that keeps the guidelines of Islam embedded in every single page, between every single letter. The teachings of the Qur'an and Hadith are very important to the magazine. By the pure help of God, MBM will never imitate a manipulated ideology of women. MBM is unique in presenting authentic views, visions, and thoughts.

Editing Internship Advertising Internship Marketing Internship Media Internship

Internships are an excellent way to gain industry experience while still in school.

MBM does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, age, physical or mental disability, national origin, sexual orientation, or any other basis covered. All matters related to employment are decided on qualifications and merit.

Candidates must have an appreciation for the magazine industry, be self-motivated & detail-oriented.

Editing Internship This is a work-from-home internship opportunity that will require 7-10 hours a week. The candidate will be given various documents to be edited. This is a great opportunity for English/Journalism majors to get hands on experience within the magazine industry. We are preferably looking for a Freshman or Sophomore in College. However, Juniors and Seniors in College are also encouraged to apply. Under special circumstances, we will consider high-achieving high school seniors.

Qualifications         

Very strong written and verbal communication skills Grammar obsessed Self-starter Responsible for editing documents without changing the voice of the author Responsible for proofreading MBM website and blog when assigned.

Familiar and knowledgeable with the religion of Islam Self-motivated and detail-oriented Willing to use Microsoft Word “Track Changes” feature Will have the opportunity to put together a portfolio of editing work *This is an unpaid internship* Candidates are able to receive college credit, if they wish.

To apply: E-mail cover letter explaining why you are a good candidate, along with your resume, and 3 writing samples to hr@mbmuslima.com

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Marketing Internship This is a work-from-home internship opportunity that will require 7-10 hours a week. The candidate will be given various advertising tasks and projects. This is a great opportunity for Business/Marketing majors to get hands on experience within the magazine industry. We are preferably looking for a Freshman or Sophomore in College. However, Juniors and Seniors in College are also encouraged to apply. Under special circumstances, we will consider high-achieving high school seniors.

Qualifications          

Very strong written and verbal communication skills Strong interest in advertising Responsible for searching for new advertising clients Responsible for doing market research on the Muslim market Will have the opportunity to gain hands on experience in the Advertising industry Will have the opportunity to handle all the advertising stages of one client Will have the opportunity to compile an impressive portfolio Familiar and knowledgeable with the religion of Islam Self-motivated and detail-oriented Interest in learning basic graphic design and copywriting *This is an unpaid internship* Candidates are able to receive college credit, if they wish.

To apply: E-mail cover letter explaining why you are a good candidate, along with your resume to hr@mbmuslima.com

Advertising Internship This is a work-from-home internship opportunity that will require 7-10 hours a week. The candidate will be given various tasks and projects related to several marketing functions. This is a great opportunity for Business/Marketing majors to get hands on experience within the magazine industry. We are preferably looking for a Freshman or Sophomore in College.

However, Juniors and Seniors in College are also encouraged to apply. Under special circumstances, we will consider highachieving high school seniors.

Qualifications        

Very strong written and verbal communication skills Strong interest in marketing, social media, advertising and blogging Responsible for doing market research on the Muslim market Will have the opportunity to gain hands on experience in the Advertising industry Will have the opportunity to gain a plethora of hands on marketing experience Familiar and knowledgeable with the religion of Islam Self-motivated and detail-oriented Interest in learning basic graphic design and copywriting *This is an unpaid internship* Candidates are able to receive college credit, if they wish.

To apply: E-mail cover letter explaining why you are a good candidate, along with your resume to hr@mbmuslima.com

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Media Internship This is a work-from-home internship opportunity that will require 7-10 hours a week. The candidate will be responsible for nurturing and developing key media relations for the magazine. This is a great opportunity for Communication or Public Relation Majors majors to get hands on experience as well as develop Media contacts, while working under a strong brand name in the magazine industry. We are preferably looking for a Sophomore, Junior, or Senior in College.

Qualifications          

Very strong written and verbal communication skills Someone who is familiar with Muslims in the Media Responsible for monitoring media buzz Will have the opportunity to gain hands on experience with media contacts Will have the opportunity to represent MBM to the media Must be confident enough to contact media personnel Familiar and knowledgeable with the religion of Islam Self-motivated and detail-oriented Interested in creating a strong portfolio, with press releases, interviews, and other media Arabic speaking/writing is a plus *This is an unpaid internship* Candidates are able to receive college credit, if they wish.

To apply: E-mail cover letter explaining why you are a good candidate, along with your resume to hr@mbmuslima.com

While these internships are mainly geared towards college students, anyone is welcome to apply. Even though certain internships state an ideal major, all majors are welcome to apply.

MBM does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, age, physical or mental disability, national origin, sexual orientation, or any other basis covered. All matters related to employment are decided on the basis of qualifications and merit.

Contact hr@mbmuslima.com with any questions.

JazakAllah khairan.

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Part-time Advertising Account Executive MBM does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, age, physical or mental disability, national origin, sexual orientation, or any other basis covered. All matters related to employment are decided on the basis of qualifications and merit.

Candidates must have an appreciation for the magazine industry, be self-motivated & detailoriented.

Job Description *** This is a work-from-home commission based sales position with part-time, flexible hours. The candidate will contact prospective advertising clients. This is a great opportunity for anyone who is looking to gain solid advertising and business development experience while making money based on their performance.

Qualifications          

Very strong written and verbal communication skills, especially in E-mails Self-starter, self-motivated Trustworthy Responsible for contacting prospective clients, with sales letter and MBM Advertising Kit Responsible for maintaining relationships with clients Will serve as a key liaison between clients and Founder of MBM Will be given a list of prospective clients to contact.

Familiar and knowledgeable with the religion of Islam Previous sales / business development a plus Will have the opportunity to put together a portfolio of editing work To apply: E-mail detailed cover letter explaining why you want the job along with your resume to hr@mbmuslima.com

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For Married Muslimahs:

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

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MBM Colum Inspired by Sister Glory Ali from NJ. JazakAllahu Khair Sister.

MBM will return with our ―Success Guide for the College Muslimah‖ in the October 2010, with ten tips for Highschool Seniors.

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Spring Cleaning the Halal Way by A simple guide to finding halal, non-toxic cleaning products and a basic checklist for how to quickly and efficiently deep clean your kitchen.

E-book in pdf. format.

334 kb, 9 total pages.

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Price 1.49 The E-book includes: 

What is Halal Cleaning?  Products to Use  Getting Started  Cleaning From Top to Bottom  Inside the Cabinets  Cleaning Large Appliances  The Exterior  Floors  Finishing  Cleaning Products Brand Recommendation

Click here to purchase Yvonne’s wonderful Ebook!

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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.

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Ramadan

Eid

By Yvonne Maffei from My Halal Kitchen

Perfect before Iftar: Dates & Cream A quick & easy suhoor: Baked Phyllo Stuffed w/ Scrambled Eggs A Hearty „Eid Brunch: Lamb and Yellow Lentil Stew

© 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.

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Dates & Cream Ramadan Mubarak! Muslims all over the world are embarking on another blessed month of fasting from food and drink (pre-dawn to sunset) in order to re focus on what is spiritually important in their lives. Although they’ll be breaking the fast in different ways around the world, according to their own particular and culturally desirable tastebuds, one food that will probably make it to every Muslim’s table is the date.

-

Ingredients     

3 large Medjool dates 9 whole roasted almonds 3 tablespoons or dollups of crème fraiche* lemon or orange zest* several pistachios, finely chopped

Directions   

Wash and dry the dates. Make a clean cut to open the date and remove any pits.

Stuff each date with 3 whole almonds and close them.

On a plate or platter, arrange the dates in a row. Dollup the creme fraiche on top of each one. Finish with lemon or orange zest and chopped pistachios.

Serve at room temperature with small forks for those who prefer it. *For the recipes to make your own crème fraiche and lemon or orange zest, visit http:// www.MyHalalKitchen.com Image Credit: Igorr | Dreamstime.com

Love Yvonne’s Recipes?

Ask her questions by E-mailing your questions to admin mbmuslima.com mbmuslima.com

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Baked Phyllo Stuffed w/ Scrambled Eggs What an easy recipe for suhoor (pre-dawn meal before fasting) for your family or for large gatherings such as a qiyam-al-layl (staying up all night for prayer). You can make the phyllo shells the day before and they’ll be just fine to fill them in with the freshly cooked scrambled eggs.

Makes 36 cups Ingredients for the Baked Phyllo Cups    

8 tablespoons unsalted butter 6 tablespoons finely chopped fresh thyme, marjoram, sage and oregano 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley 12 sheets frozen phyllo dough, thawed (½ of a 16 oz. package) Ingredients for the Scrambled Eggs         

1-2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil ½ red onion, minced 4 mini sweet peppers, diced 3 garlic cloves, minced 7 small cherry tomatoes, roughly chopped ½ teaspoon sea salt ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 4 mini sweet peppers, diced freshly chopped parsley



1-2 tablespoons butter

Image Credit: Kelliem | Dreamstime.com

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Baked Phyllo Stuffed w/ Scrambled Eggs Directions for the Baked Phyllo Cups    

  

Preheat the oven to 350° F. Melt butter, and set aside.

Remove and roll out the entire phyllo dough from the 16 oz. package and cut the entire thing in half.

Place 1 sheet of the phyllo dough on a clean, dry surface; brush the entire surface generously with melted butter. Sprinkle lightly with a modest amount of the freshly cut herbs. Place another sheet of phyllo on top, brush with melted butter, and sprinkle with another modest amount of the fresh herbs. Repeat with 2 more sheets of phyllo to total four sheets.

Cut the stack into twelve 3-inch squares. Gently mold each square into a 3 inch muffin tin cup.

Bake until the edges are just golden brown about 10 minutes. When done, set aside to cool.

Repeat step 2 with 4 more sheets of phyllo dough, melted butter, and fresh herbs. Repeat again, for a total of 36 cups.

Directions for the Scrambled Eggs  

In a large sauté pan, warm the olive oil.

Add the red onions and sweet peppers and sauté for about 3-5 minutes. Add the tomatoes, garlic, salt and papper and cook until the tomatoes have softened.

Directions for the Scrambled Eggs In a large sauté pan, warm the olive oil.

Add the red onions and sweet peppers and sauté for about 3-5 minutes. Add the tomatoes, garlic, salt and papper and cook until the tomatoes have softened.

Crack the eggs directly into pan and stir to scramble with the rest of the ingredients until the engtire mixture is blended and scrambled.

Set aside to cool.

Directions for Filling the Baked Phyllo Cups    

While the baked phyllo cups are still in the muffin tins and cooled, place ½ teaspoon feta cheese in the bottom of each phyllo cup.

Place 1 teaspoon of the egg mixture on top of the feta cheese.

Bake until heated through, about 3 minutes.

Garnish with a small dollup of butter and a bit of fresh, flat leaf parsley for décor and taste.

*Note: if you need to re-heat these for any reason, do so in the oven or a small toaster oven for about 2-3 minutes. Re-heating in the microwave will cause the cups to soften too much and lose their crispiness.

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Lamb and Yellow Lentil Stew Lamb is a common staple at nearly every 'Eid table and there are hundreds of ways to prepare it. I love this recipe because it brings out the flavors of ultra fresh meat and remind us of the immense blessing for merely having it in our possession. In my opinion, this simple, rustic meal does justice to the sacrificial lamb so many of us are fortunate to enjoy, alhamdullilah.

Ingredients           

1 tablespoon olive oil 1 tablespoon butter 1 small onion, finely diced 1 lb. boneless lamb meat, cut into very small pieces a few lamb bones, preferably from the rib 1/2 teaspoon dry parsley flakes 1/2 teaspoon dry basil 1/2 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon mint salt and black pepper, to taste 1 1/2 cups yellow lentils, washed

Directions Rinse and pat dry the meat with paper towels.

In a large Dutch oven or deep sauce man, heat butter over medium heat. When it begins to froth, add olive oil.

Add onions and saute until translucent. Next, add the meat and brown it on all sides. Add the bones.

Add all the spices. Continue to sauté for 1-2 minutes.

Add 2 to 2 ½ cups water and bring the meat to a boil.

Add the lentils, stir then lower the heat.

Cover the pot and continue to cook for 20-30 minutes. Add more water if necessary. Taste to adjust any seasonings.

Serve in large bowls with rustic bread for dipping. It's a meal by itself!

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Image Credit: Jillian Bear | Dreamstime.com

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*Custom Embroidered My Halal Kitchen Aprons

Every halal kitchen should own one.

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QUR’AN CHALLENGE Each issue, MBM will choose one Surah that we challenge our readers to memorize completely within a month's span.

This issue’s challenge is Surah Al-Qaria On the following page, you will find the Translation and Transliteration of Surat Al-Qaria.

MBM wishes you all good luck to memorize this, inshaAllah!

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Surah Al-Qaria (Day of Clamour)

Translation Credit: http://noblequran.com/translation/surah101.html Transliteration Credit: http://www.islambasics.com/view.php? bkID=30&chapter=101

In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful Bismi Allahi alrrahmanialrraheemi 1. AlqariAAatu Al-Qari'ah (the striking Hour i.e. the Day of Resurrection), 2. Ma alqariAAatu What is the striking (Hour)?

3. Wama adraka ma alqariAAatu And what will make you know what the striking (Hour) is?

4. Yawma yakoonu alnnasu kaalfarashi almabthoothi It is a Day whereon mankind will be like moths scattered about, 5. Watakoonu aljibalu kaalAAihnialmanfooshi And the mountains will be like carded wool, 6. Faamma man thaqulat mawazeenuhu Then as for him whose balance (of good deeds) will be heavy, 7. Fahuwa fee AAeeshatin radiyatin He will live a pleasant life (in Paradise).

8. Waamma man khaffat mawazeenuhu But as for him whose balance (of good deeds) will be light, 9. Faommuhu hawiyatun He will have his home in Hawiyah (pit, i.e. Hell).

10. Wama adraka ma hiyah And what will make you know what it is?

11. Narun hamiyatun (It is) a hot blazing Fire!

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Tafsir of Surah Al-Qaria

By Sister Fa-izah In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

A short Makkan sūra which describes the Day of Judgement as the Day of Clamour, a day of noise and Clamour (agitation), when there will be an incredible convulsion, in which the present order of things will be distorted, in utter disarray.

For us to understand what this day is, Allah (SWT) epitomises it to a day when men will be like moths, frail little creatures. When such frail creatures are scattered about, it gives an idea of helplessness, distress and confusion. This will be the case on that day, when old memories will brought in the light.

Further, Allah (SWT) describes to us that on this Day, even the mountains we think are so solid and cannot be moved, are not as solid as we think. What we consider very substantial in this life will be as insignificant in the next world.

On that Day, everybody‘s deeds will be measured on a balance and good will receive rewards and evil will receive punishment, in essence, if good predominates, the judgement will favor an individual, with a life of pleasure and satisfaction. However, if evil predominates, then judgement will be unfavorable for such an individual. It is important to understand here, that the bliss and punishment received on that Day will be in grades, exactly according to the nature of the deeds of the individual concerned. This will take into account all our motives, temptations, provocations, surrounding conditions, antecedents, subsequent amends, and all possible connected circumstances. Hence, bliss and punishment is not the same for everyone, that is why we have to work hard always to improve on ourselves, to elevate our status in this life and the next. What we need to do is to seek knowledge and be patient as Allah put us through trials, and also ask for guidance through out everything.

Allah des not impose on any self any more than it can stand. For it is what it has earned; against it, what it has merited. ―Our Lord, do not take us to task if we forget or make a mistake! Our Lord, do not place on us a load like the one You placed on those before us! Our Lord, do not place on us a load we have not the strength to bear! And pardon us; forgive us; and have mercy on us. You are our Master, so help us against the unbelievers.‖ (Qur‘an, 2:286)

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*The last few months have been quiet for Muslimas Oasis. Behind the scenes however, ideas have been festering and articles vying for attention from Authors, each wanting to be the next to be published.** **We‘ve been getting to know Leila and her to-the-point approach through her bi-monthly column ‗Leila‘s living room‘.

Leila is quickly becoming one of our star Authors by addressing topics usually not addressed with a strong and well researched writing style.** **One of our favorite writers Yvonne with her column ‗Food with My Halal Kitchen‘ went to ISNA and did some amazing cooking demonstrations. Special congratulations to Yvonne!** **I reviewed the documentary ‗Veiled Voices‘ for my column ‗Today with UmmHend‘. This review is soon to be followed by an interview with Veiled Voices Director Brigid Maher.** **We have a new, very special ad in our sidebar spot for ModestyStyles.com and HelpOurGirls.com, go take a look and click it to find out more about The Beg Family.**

Background Image Credit: Tito Santos Dreamstime.com

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Assalamu Alaykum,

At The Dua Club, you 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.

The Dua Club is open to everyone. Both women and men. Both Muslims and non-Muslims.

JazakAllah khair.

Click here to visit the Dua Club!

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