The MAI Institute Markaz al Ihsaan
Magazine
Eid ul Fitr 1443 A.H.
Swimming Against the Tide MAI Institute.com
The occasion of opportunity to take stock.
Eid
is
a
good
We have undergone a spiritual and physiological ‘disruption’ for the past month, and mentally we have been careful to guard our conduct, our words and thoughts to make sure we don’t ‘spoil the fast’. On a day like today, we can reflect on the past month – the highs and lows – and see how we can respond differently in the future. That is to say, we can use our experiences of the past month to guide us through the next Ramadan. It is also a good time to take stock in looking at the community as a whole. That we are coming out of pandemic restrictions, we have a rare opportunity to reflect on the past few years, and redefine what we would like the future to look like, as we rebuild, restart and redirect our efforts and those in our charge. Going back to how things were might be comfortable, but it certainly won’t be ideal. As we position for the years to come, at an individual and community level, it is our hope that we can become a stronger force, more united and more directed towards lifting each other up. This cannot only be lip-service, however. Efforts to tear down barriers and old habits must be undertaken. For some, it may be a new way of thinking. For others, it may be sharing resources or the spotlight. Or climbing off a pedestal and getting back in touch with the troops on the ground.
Whatever the resulting decisions and required actions may be, now is the perfect time to take charge of the future and redefine what direction our efforts would take, to what intended outcomes. We owe it not only to ourselves, but to the future and upcoming generations, who themselves have very little to look forward to. This Eid, let us resolve that the renewed habits and new thinking can steer us towards a brighter future, as a more united body. Let us commit to be the representative of Almighty Allah, and be a brighter light in a growing flood of darkness; a beacon that calls others towards safer ground. And hopefully, when we take stock at the next year’s Eid, we can look back with satisfaction, and look forward with greater hope. At the MAI, we are happy that we were able to do our small part towards demonstrating a commitment to development for everyone – at the individual and community levels. We look forward to even more in the coming year, working alongside you, so that we all can ‘Live the best life. For both worlds.’ May this day of Eid give you peace, solace, comfort, opportunity and drive to define and realise a brighter tomorrow. Eid Mubarak from the MAI Institute family, to you and yours.
Praises are for Allah, the Originator of the skies and the earth. Peace and salutations on His beloved servant – the Final Messenger that was sent to mankind. We thank the Lord for blessing us to witness another month of Ramadan. We pray to Allah to bless our fasting, prayers and sacrifices we make during the Holy Month. Today, we join with our brothers and sisters from all over the world by celebrating Eid. As every single human is a representative of the Lord here on earth, everyone is required to develop certain moral and spiritual discipline. Everyone is required to show restraint. Because it is sometimes difficult to restrain ourselves, Allah, out of love and mercy for us, gave us an institution designed to help us resist material distractions through fasting. He tells us in the Holy Qur’an, “Fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before, in order that you will be able to establish restraint.” Every individual is required to culture and cultivate some of the qualities contained in the Divine Attributes. Each person must always keep in mind the important fact that he or she is living on earth just for a span of time and before we can imagine we can die and leave all the material things behind. Ramadan teaches us to become conscious of
1. Our use of our material blessings to help us become better representatives of the Lord here on earth 2. Control of our desires and passions 3. Be conscious of the fact that we are living amongst other human beings, and we are required to interact with them in a special way. All human beings are required to keep in mind the important fact that Allah says, “If He were to take mankind to task for all the wrong they do, there will not be a single one left.”
Maulana Dr. Waffie Mohammed Principal – MAI Institute
Our mission on earth is to behave like the Lord as best we can. And knowing that we can have a lot of short comings, we benefit ourselves by fasting in Ramadan, observing extra acts of worship and giving charity. Ramadan teaches us to humble ourselves before our Lord and develop righteousness as much as possible. Because Fasting in Ramadan is for one month, we will be able to cultivate some of the righteous deeds through restraints. Therefore, we feel happy when Eid comes, as we are able to restrain ourselves. Let us thank our Lord for His blessings and let us continue to try to uphold the permissible and avoid the prohibited.
Eid Mubarak to you and your family.
From the MAI Institute
to the national Muslim family.
FASTING IN RAMADHAN AND EID By: Mufti Mohammad Asrarul Haque, Spiritual Guide of ASJA The concept of fasting is common among human beings, irrespective of their religion, cast and practices. It is even observed by animals such as camels, snakes and certain species of lizards at certain timed for a period of their lives. Moreover, fasting has been an old act of worship which is stated in the previously revealed religions. The Torah has obligated Fasting on the Jews as well Gospel on the Christians. But Fasting in the month of Ramadhan is distinguished by being exclusively intended for the sake of Allah Almighty.
Fasting is a Divine obligation stated in the Holy Qura’n, (Chapter 2;183) How does Muslim fast and its Degrees of Fasting. First: General Fasting. This is achieved through abstention from eating, drinking and having sexual intercourse. This is the apparent fasting that the majority of Muslims observe and think that they have fulfilled their obligation. Second: Special fasting. This type of fasting includes the first degree in addition to the abstention of the organs from committing sins. Third: The most special fasting. It involves the first two types in addition to the fasting of the heart and purifying it from all abomination which contradicts faith and sincerity and devotion and dedication to Allah Almighty. After completion of fasting for month of Ramadhan by seeing the Crescent of the Month of Shawwal, Allah gives Muslims to celebrate and enjoy on one day which is called the day of Eid.
“Eid” is an Arabic word which means referring to something habitual that returns and is repeated. Eid-al-Fitr is a very joyous day for the believing men and women. On this day Muslims show their real joy for the many blessings Allah Ta’ala has given to them to fulfil their obligations of fasting and other good deeds during the blessed month of Ramadhan. The Messenger of Allah, Muhammad is reported to have said: “And then the night of Eid ul fitr, the night that is called Laylatul Jaa’izah (night of prize giving), comes along. On the morning of Eid, Allah sends down the Malaa’ikah (angels) to all the lands of the earth where they take their positions at access points of roads, calling out with a voice that is heard by all except man and jinn, “O Ummah of Muhammad (Salallaho alaihe was sallam), come forth from your houses towards a Lord that is noble and gracious, who grants much and pardons the major sins.” When they proceed towards the places for their Eid salaah, Allah says to the Malaa’ikah: “What indeed is the reward of that employee who had rendered his services?” The Malaa’ikah reply’ “O Lord and Master, it is only right that he should receive his reward in full for his services.” Allah then says, “I call you to witness, O My Malaa’ikah, that for their having fasted during the month of Ramadhan and for their having stood in prayer by night,
I have granted to them as reward My pleasure and have granted them forgiveness. O My servants ask now of Me, for I swear by My honour and My greatness, that whatsoever you shall beg of me this day in this assembly of yours for the needs of the Hereafter, I shall grant you; and whatsoever you shall ask for worldly needs, I shall look at you favourably. By My honour I swear, as long as you shall obey my commands, I shall cover your faults. By My honour and by My greatness do I swear that I shall never disgrace you among the evil-doing ones and disbelievers. Depart now from here, you are forgiven. You have pleased Me and I am pleased with you.” The Malaa’ikah on seeing this great reward bestowed by Allah upon the Ummah of Muhammad (Salallaho alaihe wassallam) on the day of Eid ul Fitr become greatly pleased and happy.” Since the Government of Trinidad and Tobago has eased some of the restrictions with regards to the Covid pandemic, the majority of Muslims including women and children are very excited to go out on the Day of Eid to the Masjid and perform the Eid prayers and to celebrate their Eid with families and friends this year, 2022, in sha Allah. Let me take this opportunity to wish you a very happy Eid to you and your family and friends in advance. May Allah bless us all.
from the
TACKVEEYATUL ISLAMIC ASSOCIATION TIA) Assalamu alaikum Unto You).
Eid-ul-Fitr 2022
(Peace Be
believers should be engaged in activities that would draw them closer to their Creator.
The executive and members of the Tackveeyatul Islamic Association (T.I.A.) are pleased to extend Eid greetings to our brothers and sisters throughout the world. The festival of Eid-ul-Fitr marks the end of Ramadhan, the month in which our spiritual batteries should have been recharged. Indeed it has been a month of spiritual rejuvenation and stocktaking for the believers who should have drawn themselves closer to their Creator. In many parts of the civilized world fasting has been recognized as an institution from which communities may benefit physically, spiritually and morally. Eid is a day of graduation from a month of intensive exercise in self-restraint. It is a day of happiness for those who have responded to the call from their Lord to fast for His pleasure. The day of Eid is essentially a time for giving thanks to Allah for His countless favours bestowed upon His creation. In addition to the compulsory fasts in Ramadhan, other types of fasts can be identified for spiritual upliftment. 1.
Obligatory fasts (Wajib): If one has made a vow to observe a fast, or has to observe fasts for atonement of sins, one will be obligated to observe them.
2. Sunnat Fasts: These are fasts observed by the Holy Prophet (Peace be unto Him) or fasts which he urged his followers to observe.
Almighty Allah has reminded us in the Holy Qur’an about the following: i) Do not cover truth with falsehood. ii) Do not make mischief in the land. iii) Do not gossip, slander and backbite. Benefits of Fasting
Imran Hoosaney President, Tackveeyatul Islamic Assoication • The Ashura fasts on the 9th and 10th of the first Islamic month of Muharram. • The fast on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah on the day of Arafah. • The fasts on the 13th, 14th and 15th of every lunar month. 3. Voluntary Fasts. • Six fasts of the month of Shawwal, immediately after Ramadhan. • Fasts of every Monday and Thursday. • Fast on the 15th of Shaban. • Fasts during the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah. Several benefits may be derived from fasting, but Allah instructs us that the real purpose of fasting is to develop Taqwa (piety). It is important to note that fasting does not only entail abstaining from food, drink, marital relations and evil, but
1. Allah showers His blessings on those who fast sincerely. 2. Several organs e.g. liver, kidney and pancreas are “at rest”. 3. It improves our will-power since we must avoid things that are Halaal (lawful ) during the period of fasting. We can well imagine how much we need to avoid those things that are Haraam (unlawful ). 4. This month teaches us to be punctual in our timing, since we must begin and end our fasts at the correct times. 5. Fasting gives us the opportunity to develop qualities of patience, humility and endurance. All our senses are disciplined and our character improves as we strive to please our Lord. 6. From a moral standpoint, one becomes more sympathetic and tolerant towards those who are in need. 7. Community-spirit and togetherness are fostered during this month as members congregate for Salaah (prayer) in the Masjid 8. Repetition of verses from the Holy Qur’an improves memory.
May the lessons learnt during the month of Ramadan fortify us to remain steadfast on the straight path that will take us to the Paradise. May Almighty God guide us, protect us and forgive us. From the executive and members of the TIA, EID MUBARAK 2022.
Islamic Ladies Social and Cultural Association (ILSCA) We strive to please Allah … and then we celebrate Allah سبحانه و تعالىhas blessed us with a month full of blessings, full of opportunities for us to receive forgiveness, full of guidance to improve ourselves. As we fasted from dawn to dusk during the month of Ramadan, we would have experienced the pangs of hunger and thirst felt by so many throughout the world. This causes us to develop a soft heart and empathy for those who are normally without basic food and drink, not knowing from where their next meal would be coming. This in turn would encourage us to assist those poor and destitute in our society as much as we possibly can, In Shaa Allah. We would have striven to fast in such a manner so that at the end of the month we would have cultivated taqwa. Developing in us the ability to be conscious of Allah سبحانه و تعالىin all aspects of our lives, the ability to recognize that we need to be grateful to Him, سبحانه و تعالىat all times in our lives and the ability to let all of our actions be acts of ibaadat (virtuous acts) as servants of the All Loving and Infinitely Merciful Creator.
Shaleeza Khan-Ali President, Islamic Ladies Social and Cultural Association (ILSCA)
May Allah سبحانه و تعالىaccept all our duas and acts of ibaadat (virtuous acts) so that at the end of this month of Blessings as we celebrate Eid ul Fitr it would be a meaningful celebration. Celebrating the fact that we would have striven to improve ourselves in a way that is pleasing to Allah سبحانه و تعالىand the intention to continue to strive to maintain the good habits that we would have developed during the month, In Shaa Allah. On behalf of the entire membership of ILSCA I extend Eid Mubarak to the Muslim community and the national community.
Ramadan: A month of opportunity and training
Islamic Dawah Movement Why is Ramadan so special? Indeed, Allah has granted the Muslims solace with the coming of the ‘spiritual training camp’, the holy month of Ramadan, in which each and every Muslim is granted a golden opportunity to practice spiritual endurance, a necessary requirement to overcome the obstacles of life. What makes Ramadan so special compared to other Islamic months is that during this month, the rewards are multiplied. Every form of worship, every act of kindness, and every good deed done during this month carries more weight and blessings. Allah’s mercy and generosity is showered upon us in this month. It is said that the gates of forgiveness are open during Ramadan. All prayers are heard. This is why Muslims graciously donate to charity and do other good deeds.
Fasting is one of the best ways to attain this Taqwa. Taqwa is the most valuable fruit of fasting. Just as plants have their own season of flowering, so is Ramadan the season of the year for blossoming of goodness, virtue and piety. The month of opportunity The month of Ramadan provides the perfect opportunity for us to inwardly reflect on our lives and make sincere resolutions to change for the better throughout the proceeding months. It is a month of moral and spiritual growth. Islamic fasting is more than hunger and thirst. It is a month-long camp restraining oneself from desires and evil. In other words, Ramadan is a month of self-regulation and discipline.
The prize of Taqwa (piety)
Opportunity to change negative perceptions
The Holy Quran ordains, “O you who believe, fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those who were before you, in order that you may achieve ‘taqwa’ (piety)” (Ch 2:183).
Let us also make this Ramadan about building stronger relations with our neighbours and the wider community in Trinidad & Tobago. Ramadan can be used as an opportunity to change the negative perceptions around Islam and Muslims by sharing the goodness of this month with those around us. Let us display the generosity and kindness to fellow Muslims and non Muslims as directed by our Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
Taqwa, in Islam, is a means of getting closer to Allah spiritually. It strengthens a Muslim’s belief and enables him/her to become a better human being and an even better follower of the Islamic faith. Taqwa is consciousness of Allah. It is the outcome of the love and passion an individual has for their religion, Islam, and for their prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and Allah.
ISTIGHFAR – SEEKING FORGIVENESS IN THE BLESSED MONTH OF RAMADAN By: Alisha Gaffoor, MAI Institute Student
Bismillah hir Rahman nir Raheem. In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful. I wish to take this opportunity to wish everyone Ramadan Mubarak and remind us it is a special occasion for us to focus on selfreflection and improving our relationship with Almighty Allah. Our beloved Prophet Muhammad (peace be on him) said, ‘’When the month of Ramadan begins, the Gates of Heaven are opened and the Gates of Hell are closed, and the devils are chained.’’ Which of us is void of sins and errors? We are all prone as we are human, but this is a special opportunity for us Muslims in Ramadan to do some powerful supplication and strengthen one’s relationship with Almighty Allah through abundant prayer, reciting Quran, fasting, and seeking Allah’s forgiveness. A simple dua we must make a habit of saying is ‘Astagfirullah', which means ‘I seek forgiveness in Allah.’ Prophet Muhammad (peace be on him) used to say this dua at least 100 times a day, and we should strive to do the same as it is a Sunnah or practice of our Prophet (peace be on him). By doing so, especially in Ramadan, Almighty Allah answers our duas, He relieves us from stress and anxiety, we gain a closer bond with Our Lord and we are given an opportunity for Almighty Allah to erase our sins, once we are sincere in repenting from our hearts. It is said that acts of worship and kindness in Ramadan are multiplied up to 700 times in rewards from Almighty Allah!
So my dear friends, do not waste this opportunity to seek forgiveness, whatever sins we have committed. If we make it a habit of saying ‘Astaghfirullah’ on a daily basis, it will help us to refrain from further committing sins and guide us to make better decisions, knowing that Almighty Allah is everywhere, He knows everything, so we will be more mindful of our actions and strive to do good deeds to earn His rewards. In a Hadith narrated by Abu Dawd, Ibn Abbas said: The Prophet (peace be on him) said, ‘’If anyone constantly seeks pardon (from Allah), Allah will appoint for him a way out from every distress and a relief from every anxiety, and will provide sustenance for him where he expect not.’’ Another reminder is that we must forgive ourselves as part of the process of healing, because we all make mistakes, but Almighty Allah loves us so much He is ready to forgive us and accept our repentance once we turn to Him with sincerity. Prophet Muhammad (peace be on him) said ‘’ Whosoever Glorifies Allah and Praises Him 100 times a day by saying ‘Subhan Allahi wa bihamdihi’, his sins will be obliterated even if they were equal to the foam of the sea.’’ So perform the Tasbih of Astaghfaar now! In one minute, you can say ‘Astaghfirullah' 100 times! The doors of Repentance are open my friends so do not delay! Tomorrow is uncertain so act today!
Ramadan Reflections and the New Normal Majlis ul Ulamaa (Council of Scholars)
Majlistt.com One Position. One Voice. One Ummah.
In the Name of Allah, All-Knowing, All-Merciful. By the grace of Almighty Allah we have been able to witness another month of Ramadan, and in this year we saw some return to normal proceedings, compared to what we went through nationally over the past two years. We thank Almighty Allah for His mercies. As we celebrate the day of Eid ul Fitr, we are reminded of the personal sacrifices we would have made to obey the command of Almighty Allah, the efforts we would have undertaken to build a closer relationship with Him, and the discipline and conditioning that would hopefully help us to be better versions of ourselves in the next 11 months. In a similar way, coming out of the pandemic restrictions, we had to exert considerable efforts to be able to take care of ourselves and of others. Many of us had (and continue) to make sacrifices mentally, emotionally, physically and financially. Others have also enjoyed benefits of working from home, building closer relations with their families, neighbors and communities. For many, things are finally getting back to normal. But is this what we really want? Over the past 2 years we have seen instances of people coming together, utilizing their strengths and abilities to help each other, and standing together as one body to overcome challenges everyone faced. Before this, such examples were too far and few between. On this day of Eid ul Fitr, let us make the resolve that we would emerge from this experience into a new normal that sees us more conscious of each other’s welfare, caring more, willing to do more, for more people, so that the future sees us emerge stronger as a community and society. On a personal level, this is what we undergo at the time of Eid, after a month of rigorous fast. As a society, the experiences over the past 2 years give us the opportunity to do the same. We pray that Almighty Allah accepts our efforts, make easy our burdens and challenges, and allow us to come closer together and be stronger together, with a resolve to ensure everyone can progress and prosper in the years to come. Eid Mubarak to you and yours.
Ramadan A Catalyst For Change By Imam Hafeez Khan Santa Cruz ASJA Masjid
Muslims exercise immense physical and mental discipline during the month of Ramadan. The increased spiritual exercise and connection with Allah, can transform your habits for life Prophet Mohammed (saw) has said in a (Hadith-Qudsi),”Almighty Allah says, ‘I treat my servant according to his expectations from Me, and I am with him when he remembers me. If he remembers Me in his heart, I remember him in My heart…. if he walks towards Me, I run unto him.” “Change” is is a key element of our daily lives. Recently the price of gas changed a $ per gallon, This would have a domino effect on the price of everything. Covid restrictions have been causing significant changes in our lifestyle for the past 2+ years. We have also experience changing weather patterns. Even our Ramadan routine has changed over the last three Ramadans. For Muslims, Ramadan is the prime time for change. This month dramatically alters our routines and schedules. From tight sleep schedules, to hunger for extended hours, to reduction in consumption of junk foods, to withdrawal from caffeine addiction, to lengthy standing in Nightly prayers, to extensive listening to the Quran. The real change, however, that Ramadan demands of us is the internal change – a change that positively transforms our lifestyle, character, attitudes, conversations, and habits. The Quran describes this change in the month of Ramadan as follows: “O you who believe, fasting has been ordained on you as it was decreed upon those before you so that you may attain Taqwa”
Taqwa embodies our consciousness of everything that is beneficial to us, Our health, behaviour, relationships and adherence to our religious principles. So to attain Taqwa is to make the necessary changes to attain these. Few things are more demanding than eliminating bad habits, since they are part of our daily routines and personality. It takes days of patience and practice to break old habits. However, the good news is, Ramadan offers a perfect and natural environment for moral training. Interestingly, researches from “positive psychology” (scientific study of successful people) have repeatedly shown it takes between 30 to 40 days to kick a bad habit and develop a new one. In addition to the physical discipline during the month of Ramadan, the increased spiritual exercise and connection with Allah, can transform your habits for life. So let us Try these proven techniques for a successful positive change in your habits during Ramadan and beyond! 1. Acknowledge and Identify your bad habits: First step is to admit you need to change. If you are in a state of denial, you won’t recognize that you have a bad habit to change.
2. Pick a habit for this month: Prioritize your bad habits and focus on one for this month. If you are committed to changing at least one habit, you will see remarkable results, Insha Allah. 3. Realize that it’s in you to change: You can break a bad habit if you really want to. No one else can change your habits, if you don’t want to.
4. Remember, Allah loves those who commit mistakes and repent: The Noble Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said:
“If you were not to commit sin, Allah would sweep you out of existence and He would replace (you by) those people who would commit sin and seek forgiveness, and He would pardon them.” 5. Intention & Plan to change: “If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.” A healthy process of change in character requires a gradual pace, which entails planning. Develop concrete milestones to measure your progress.
6. Replace a bad habit with a good one: Completely eliminating a habit is more challenging than replacing it with a more productive habit. Moreover, it’s crucial to replace the lost natural needs, such as the need to socialize and to be entertained with something healthy. For instance, it’s easier to replace your addiction to TV with a physical workout or reading. Interestingly, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), the greatest ‘psychologist’ of humanity, illustrated this principle in these words: “Fear Allah wherever you may be; follow up an evil deed with a good one which will wipe (the former) out,” 7. Change your Environment: Resist the negative peer pressure by finding a better company of friends. Collective action to change is very powerful. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) explained this peer pressure effect with the analogy: “A good friend and a bad friend are like a perfume-seller and a blacksmith: The perfume-seller might give you some perfume, or you might buy from him, or at least you might smell its fragrance. As for the blacksmith, he might singe your clothes, or you will breathe in the fumes of the furnace.” 8. Exercise: Spiritual exercise is important for lasting change. You may not realize that by exerting
…A Catalyst For Change cont’d yourself in spiritual exercises like the reading of Qur’an, fasting, giving charity, etc helps in eliminating a number of bad habits.
Through doing noble deeds, evil ones will gradually be eradicated. Quran says : “Indeed, Salah restrains from Shameful and unjust deeds” A person complained to the Prophet Muhammad (saw) about someone who read salaah and also committed theft .The Prophet Muhammad (saw) said “His salaat will very soon wean him off that sin.’ This shows that the evil habits can be gotten rid off by adhering to good practises. Moreover, exercising your will power to fight temptations this month, helps you kick all kinds of bad habits and form new good ones. Willpower is like a muscle; the more you exercise it, the more you strengthen it. 9. Think of yourself as a changed, different, or new person. This simple psychological shift in your thinking about your own image can do wonders. Tell yourself, “I can’t continue this ill-behaviour. I am better than that. I am stronger. I am wiser.” 10. Reward success: The most fundamental law in all of psychology is the “law of effect.” It simply states that actions followed by rewards are strengthened and likely to recur. Set up a reward system that works for you. As Muslims we should know that the ultimate reward is Allah’s Pleasure and Paradise in the Hereafter. 11. Get help: Tell someone about your effort to change if it helps. He or she may keep you on track and may offer some good advice. Join the various programs in your local Masjid. Ladies can also join their local or online Islamic Classes. There are good and sincere people who are ready to assist. We are not an island- We are an Ummah! 12. Boost your spiritual immune system: By fasting, doing good actions, and spending time with the pious friends will boost your Imaan. This will provide you with internal strength to overcome temptation to revert to old bad habits. 13. Remind yourself of Death and Hereafter often: Prophet Muhammed (PBUH) advised “Remember often the destroyer of all pleasure - death,”
…A Catalyst For Change cont’d
14. Resolve to continue on and follow up: Giving up bad habits or learning good habits requires regular maintenance and determination. It is a long, ongoing process, also known as “Tazkiyyah” in Islamic terminology. It’s more difficult than the first few steps of change. (“How many times have I dieted, for example, only to gain the weight back?”). So ensure that you follow up. Link yourself to a good Islamic Scholar,this could be through reading or listening to YouTube videos. Make a habit to constantly engage in Jamaat or community work. 15. Develop a relapse strategy: How do you ensure not to return to your bad habit you are trying to change? Some people donate money to a good cause every time they return to a bad habit. This reminds them of the ‘cost’ of going back to old bad habits. Others try physically demanding acts to deter them from reverting to old ways. For example that if you do___ act than you will keep three fast or pay so much sadaqah(charity) etc 16. Ask Allah for Help (Dua): MOST IMPORTANT!Make Asking for Allah’s Help an integral part of the overall change process. Ask for Allah’s Help before, during and after every attempt at kicking a bad habit. Do so sincerely, even begging and crying, like a child does when he or she really wants something. Allah is Ever-Willing to Help and to Respond to our needs, but it is us who must take the first step towards Him. Allah will NEVER disappoint us! Allah Ta’ala says “ Ask me, and I will answer your call…” (Quran 40:60) “And whosoever is conscious of Allah and keeps his duty to Him, He (Allah) will make a way for him to get out (from) every (difficulty), and He will provide him from (sources) he could never imagine.” (Quran 65:2-3) So surely you Can do it!!!…Just Trust and Pray to Allah and make that great change this Ramadan!
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Islam, Science and the 4th Industrial Revolution
MAI Institute
Two decades into the 21st century, and throughout most of the world the influence of technology is on the rise. AI, Cryptocurrency and the Metaverse seem to be the future of our interactions, our commerce, our employment and our entertainment... the list is not exhaustive. Of course, through these, we hope to be able to salvage if not remedy our climate and environment, our integrity in governance, trade and justice, and opportunities for the economic well-being for all in our societies. What is clear at the moment is that the developments in science leave little room for religious doctrine. The certainty of the material world gives us hard data that can inform root causes, symptoms and solutions, which itself can be critiqued and disproved as we research and understand more. This is a far cry from the blind belief – without evidence – in metaphysical constructs that everyday religion purports. The evidence points to aliens, after all, and if there really was a God, how could He allow all this strife and discrimination in society? What is not well-known is that not only is the foundation of many of today’s scientific developments and technologies were established by Muslim scholars centuries ago, but its development was driven to support religious compliance. In fact, the Quran instructs us, “Only a party from each group should march forth, leaving the rest to gain religious knowledge then enlighten their people when they return…” (Quran 9:122). In compliance with the Quran injunctions, a group stayed in the lands through which they travelled, and established schools through which to learn local language and culture.
This led to several important contributions to science. On one part, there emerged dedicated researchers. On another, as Muslims travelled to other civilizations throughout the world, their learnings were all translated into Arabic, copies of which were sent back to centers of learning in Madinah, Baghdad or Egypt. This resulted in a compilation of world knowledge at the time – which fed further progress. As Islam expanded beyond the borders of the Arabian peninsula in every direction – east towards Asia, north into Europe, west and south into Africa, they faced a problem. A Muslim is required to pray 5 times per day, facing the Kaaba in Makkah, regardless of where in the world he/she is. As the Muslims moved into foreign territory, they needed to geo-locate the Kaaba so that they can fulfill their prayer obligations. Hence the need to develop on existing and available knowledge of astronomy. That had embedded its own problem. We can’t track what we cannot see. Enter ibn Haytham with his developments – first in the scientific method, then in optics, and further in astronomy, to propel increased and ongoing accuracy in ensuring proper worship is established. In similar ways, many of the discoveries bore its own problems, and required its own supporting body of knowledge. A frequently studied example is that of Muhammad Al-Khawarizmi (of the Darul Hikma in Baghdad in 820 AD), the man who developed not only the concept of algorithms, but relatedly in his
work is credited with the invention of Algebra (hisab al-jabr wal muqtabala or calculations of completion and reduction). Or Jabir Ibn Hayyan AlAzdi in his pioneering works in chemistry and modern pharmacy. Or Ibn Khaldun in the formalization of Sociology and History… the Islamic Golden Era was characterized by revolutionary scientific developments that positively impacted human quality of life. That era yielded to the emergence of the industrialized west, and in that transition was lost a unifying religious ethic that steered the direction of development. Quality of life for the population was reduced over time to quality of life for the owners of capital, the manipulation of natural resources for profit, and the rise of the materialist, then secular paradigms. Today, we see development for its own sake, and the absence of a central guiding ethic. In fact, very unlike Islamic paradigm, it seems as if religion is seen as the preceding stage to a progressive scientific society. Beliefs in myths and legends, superstitions are all explained by physiological labels that we don’t understand well but are aggressively researching. To not accept this is to be holding back progress. But religion and science are not zero-sum, and both can co-exist and even synergize to unlock human progress far beyond what we might think possible.
Islam, Science and the 4th Industrial Revolution cont’d Which brings us to the Fourth Industrial Revolution, an age where different new technologies are “fusing the physical, digital and biological worlds, impacting all disciplines, economies and industries, and even challenging ideas about what it means to be human.” We don’t exactly know the extent of change in our everyday lives that technology will usher. We know much of the transformation would be gradual (although occurring in faster cycles) across different areas, amplifying the need for continuous learning of developments that matter to us, and result in lifestyles that are driven by commitment to causes, alongside loyalty to our favorite brands. Ultimately, the post-modern society that unfolds bears the potential to bring quality of life more closely aligned with Islamic values and belief systems. A knowledge-driven society powered by critical-thinking, self-regulating actors, focused on the naturally occurring renewable or bio-friendly resources even as we strive as a society to balance what is more equitable with equity and rewards – echoes hauntingly of the Islamic Golden Era and the civilization of that time. A focus on justice as the happy medium between equity and equality would find significant calibration already defined in an Islamic way of life.
But there is a difference. Past iterations had a unifying, central ethic that was ultimately the responsibility of the Caliph – himself accountable for his every action to an AllKnowing, and thankfully All-Merciful God on a Day of Judgement. Today’s fragmentation of ethical perspectives, however, and the perpetuation of relativist morality can steer developments into very different directions – maybe beyond just this planet. The future is poised to look very different from the present, and maybe unrecognizable from the past. Whatever the resulting lifestyles and ethical codes that emerge to regulate our action and our interaction, as Muslims we are reminded in the Quran of a reward for “Those who believe, and do good, and establish regular prayer, and regular charity...” (Quran 2:277). And this conduct would transcend any industrial revolution.
10 Days of Upheaval: Entering the Homestretch of the Month of Ramadan We are into the last ten days of Ramadan, and we have entered into the home stretch towards Eid ul Fitr. This last third of the month is a significant one, where extra worship tends to intensify. In one hadith we are told that the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace be on him) used to exert himself in extra devotion during the last 10 nights – to a greater extent than any other time.
In this last 10-day period is the Laylatul Qadr – the Night of Power – a special night in the Islamic calendar, and one which holds significance for a number of events. In particular, it is the night in which Almighty Allah showers worshippers with an abundance of blessings and mercy, sins are forgiven and du’as (supplications) are accepted. The Holy Qur’an tells us the blessings of this night are worth more than 1000 months – that’s 83 years’ worth of blessings in 1 night. What night is it? While most agree and observe it on the 27th night, we are told in one hadith to seek it on the odd nights in the last ten nights. That’s a lot of blessings. The night of Laylatul Qadr for blessings is akin to being told there is one day of one month wherein, should you try to withdraw cash from the ATM, you would have unlimited sums to withdraw from. There’s no one I can think of who would miss such an event. And the withdrawals done on that night can set one up nicely for the rest of the year, until that day rolls around in 1 years’ time. When considered as one such night each year, the result is that over an average lifetime the blessings would be exponentially accrued. Needless to say this is a profound institution for the Muslim mind. An All-Knowing, All-Seeing, Most-Merciful, Most-Forgiving God who promises a lifetime of blessings and benefits in one night – individually – based on that person’s intentions and efforts, can prove quite the motivation. It means that despite your mistakes and your shortfalls, despite you yourself not being merciful or patient consistently – there is a chance to wipe the slate clean, seek forgiveness from the Almighty, and establish a better basis for the year to come. In this last 10-day period there is also the practice of Itikaf or spiritual retreat. This involves isolation in a mosque or home for the purpose of dedicated worship of Almighty Allah for the last 10 days of Ramadan. Typically done in the mosques throughout the world, persons would enter the mosque on the 10th night, and stay for the remainder of the month engaged in worship, when not attending to their daily needs. There are some rules to follow, and some acts that nullify the efforts, so it is something those pursuing take seriously and are careful about.
Here we find yet another institution that is designed to bring a person closer to Almighty Allah. Concerns for people and matters of the world are sidelined in favor of worship and self-reflection, and perhaps this is why it is reported in one hadith that the person who observes itikaf will obtain the reward of two Hajj (Pilgrimage to Makkah) and two Umrah (circumambulation around the Kaaba) (Bayhaqi). In addition, we find recurring themes of detachment from the world, training or re-training oneself to proper conduct and mannerisms in accordance with Islamic instructions, and a stronger relationship with, and trust in Almighty Allah to look after our affairs. While the outcomes of this retreat tend to be very individual and personal (different people would come out of the exercise with different takeways and impressions) it is hoped that all enjoy purification of their intentions and a renewed vigor in the practice of their faith. The last 10 days represent the essence of the month of Ramadan. The submission to God’s command through individual self-sacrifice of fasting continues. The need to guard one’s conduct and behavior while undertaking the fast stays top-of-mind. The recognition of the struggles routinely endured by those who are less fortunate keeps one grounded, and is accompanied by increase in the dispensation of charity – itself an ability that persons tend to be more thankful for. The seeking of the night of Laylatul Qadr, and the efforts of even extra worship on this night and in itikaf hold the promise of rewards to be enjoyed either in this life, or the next, if not both. And accompanying all of these, a reminder to not be too attached to the life of this world, or not be a slave to our indulgences and cravings, helps us to temper our materialistic outlook and reinforce the accountability that we believe will occur on the day of Judgement – a day when we will be taken to task for our behaviors and stewardship of our resources in this life, based on our intentions. To state it differently, what people think about you on social media matters very little when you are hungry or ‘dying of thirst’. Through this annual exercise and adherence to the will and command of Almighty Allah, we are able to not only refine our behaviors but also reestablish our priorities, so that we can continue to strive for the increased welfare of ourselves, our families and our communities, and realise benefit in this world, and the world that is to come.
We pray that Almighty Allah allows us to participate in, and benefit fully from, the last 10 days of Ramadan, and guide us through this period to emerge as stronger and better individuals and communities, for the benefit of our society. Faheem.Mohammed@MAIInstitute.com
Ramadan: Rekindling the Warrior Spirit Ramadan is upon us, and once again we enter the month of fasting and extra worship. This year it promises to be somewhat normal, relative to the past 2 years. There might even be some aftari to attend. I wonder where would be having, and what menu would dominate the landscape. Expect to hear, if you haven’t already, proclaimed loudly from the mimbars on Jummah – “Fasting is prescribed on you as it was on those before you,” and “The devil is chained” and so forth. And of course, we cannot forget the same question by our peers – “Yuh fasting owa?” or otherwise, “how you making out?” as we shovel the buss-up-shut or fried rice into our faces relentlessly. Fun times with friends. But this is on one level. There’s a deeper and much more personal effect of Ramadan on us individually. Almighty Allah tells us in the Qur’an: “…Allah intends every facility for you; He does not want to put to difficulties. (He wants you) to complete the prescribed period, and to glorify Him in that He has guided you; and perchance ye shall be grateful.” (Quran 2:185) The mental and physiological discipline takes one out of the domain of civilian comforts and into the territory of warrior conditioning. As it was most likely meant to. Wake up early, have a meal, pray, and go about your day. Relinquish food and drink for the entire day, and yet still function as you need to. Be very mindful of your conduct in every situation lest your fast is in vain. We are told in ahadith: “When any one of you is fasting on a day,
he should neither indulge in obscene language, nor raise the voice; or if anyone reviles him or tries to quarrel with him he should say: I am a person fasting….” (Sahih Muslim Book 35, Number 2566) Abu Hurairah (r.a) narrated that the Messenger of Allah (saw) said: 'Whoever
does not give up evil and ignorant speech, and acting in accordance with that, Allah has no need of his giving up his food and drink." (Sunan Ibn Majah Chapter 9, Number 1689) Abu Hurairah (r.a.) narrated that the Messenger of Allah (saw) said: "There are
people who fast and get nothing from their fast except hunger, and there are those who pray and get nothing from their prayer but a sleepless night." (Sunan Ibn Majah Chapter 9, Number 1690). Hasten to break the fast – but not too early, pray… repeat for 30 days. Meanwhile, as the days go by dehydration begins to kick in, impacting your patience and demeanor – some persons get very irritable and edgy while fasting. That, alongside irregular sleep hours, begins to erode your judgment and decisionmaking capacities. Missing a meal and disrupting daily habits all serve to invoke exhaustion and headaches, acid reflux, muscle cramps. For some, concentration becomes a challenge and the brain begins to flutter. Fasting takes its toll, even though it is embedded with physical benefits. Perhaps this is why we are told in the Qur’an: “O ye who believe! Fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you, that ye may (learn) self-restraint” (Quran 2:183) It echoes eerily of being at a barracks, woken up for a random night exercise, obeying the command of the Drill Sargent, and undergoing some grueling exercise before you get back to base and some semblance of sanity. Or undergoing the rigors of daily training over the weeks you are there. Going into Ramadan, we undergo our own version of military training. Annually. We condition our Nafs – our ‘civilian’ selves, habits and fancies, if you will, to come under our control. The thing is, doing this in the midst of your everyday routine can make it a cumbersome exercise. Perhaps this is why we are told in the Hadith:
“Every act of the son of Adam is for him, except fasting. It is (exclusively) meant
for Me and I (alone) will reward it. Fasting is a shield… By Him, in Whose Hand is the life of Muhammad, the breath of the observer of fast is sweeter to Allah on the Day of judgment than the fragrance of musk. The one who fasts has two (occasions) of joy, one when he breaks the fast he is glad with the breaking of (the fast) and one when he meets his Lord he is glad with his fast.” (Sahih Muslim Book 35, Number 2566). Doing the exact same in the frontlines battling for survival is a different story, however. You tend to think about the sacrifices and irritants less, and focus more on navigating the terrain and staying alive. This is what you are prepared for in your formative training – metamorphosis from being subjected to your whims and cravings to being in charge of your physical, mental selves. And while military conditioning is accompanied by a skillset to stay alive in the physical world, and conquer the enemy combatant, as Muslims we undergo moral and spiritual conditioning, with our physical and mental selves. We disrupt our schedules, we abstain, we regulate our conduct, worship more, give more in charity… all to conquer our Nafs and the whisperings of Shaitan.
Our battle is against our own selves, and we are commanded to do this, so that we come out stronger, in greater control of our desires, and better prepared for facing the battles that can erupt around us or within us for the rest of the year. All for the sake of Allah and in submission to His command. It may well be in recognition of this that we were told in the hadith, “Every (good) deed of the son of Adam
would be multiplied, a good deed receiving a tenfold to seven hundredfold reward. Allah, the Exalted and Majestic, has said:
With the exception of fasting, for it is done for Me and I will give a reward for it, for one abandons his passion and food for My sake.” (Sahih Muslim Book 35, Number 2567)
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