Islam is the most effective developing religion in the world. Individuals from all over the world are impressed and getting into Islam by acknowledging all the conditions of Islam even the eating habits of a non-Muslim. In addition to the many other religious features and prerequisites, the restriction of Muslims to the halal foodstuff also holds many advantageous elements for the well beings of Muslims and the mankind.

There are several kinds of meals taken in the various parts of the globe. Some are non-meat eaters as for instance in China and India, and some are omnivores who eat both beef, fresh vegetables, etc. The beef is provided from various resources for example; lamb meat, beef and pig’s pork; the red meat, while seafood and poultry are popular as white meat.

There are many times we listened the word halal foodstuff or halal beef in restaurants, but not all of the people are acquainted with the real idea of halal meat. It is a type of meat which is permissible for the Muslims to consume or eat. The concept of halal and its opposite haram is almost at par with the principle of the term “Kosher” from which the Jews are abide by.

There are some circumstances on the slaughter of the pet animal which make it halal or allowable religiously for consuming by Muslims. These conditions are summarized as follow;

1.           Pet animal should be slaughtered by a Muslim following a few particular prayers for the almighty Allah. The beef will not be regarded as halal if the pet animal is slaughtered by non-Muslim, or the person who left Islam.

2.           Slaughtering should be carried out with a well-defined cutting knife or blade and things like gazelle, bones, stones are not permitted to wipe out the animal, or to slaughter it.

3.           It is very essential to cut the gullet and the windpipe of the pet with a well-defined cutting knife, if it is not cut, then the meat will not regarded as halal.

4.           if  the gullet and windpipe are cut after killing the animal (when it is dead), it would certainly not be regarded halal.

5.           The butch should slaughter the animal quickly without having causing it more soreness.

6.           The animal’s face should be in the direction of the house of Allah in Mecca at the time of slaughtering.

7.           Species of fish is not needed to be slaughtered and is regarded halal. Seafood can be used without these procedures.

8.           The cutting knife or slaughtering tools should not be dull.

9.           It is also suggested though not essential that the animal ought to be given well and should not dehydrate before the practice of slaughtering.

10.         The slaughtering should be begun with the name of Allah called Bismillah.

The Muslims in non-Muslim nations are experiencing issues to find the halal foodstuff because there are very few dining places which are taking care of all these parameters, but in Muslim nations it is not a big deal to locate the halal food items.

View the Original article

A lot of Muslims think that Muslim Umah is not heading into the right direction, but it is quite easy to have a comment on other Muslim fellows about what they are doing and what they should actually be doing. As a part of Islamic society, every single Muslim has his part to play.

Islam is a religion that is quite flexible in every sense, but this flexibility does not mean that you should do whatever you want to do, the life should be in accordance with the teachings of Islam. Prophet (PBUH) himself demonstrated that how should one live their life in accordance with the will of Almighty Allah.

You hear people say that a lot of things have changed with the passage of time, but in my opinion; everything is the same except the behavior and approach of the Muslims. Unfortunately, you don’t often see people following the religion as they should be; the reason is that there are so many things to be done in knowing the religion. When you don’t take interest in knowing what your religion says, then how one can expect you to be a good Muslim.

The most common issue that is faced by Muslim Umah is that they don’t have any consensus at any point rather than most of the Ulema’s are always found to be pointing on other Ulema’s. There are different schools of thoughts in Muslims, each school has a conflict with the other ones. Muslim Umah is not guided with the true teachings of Islam in which there is a surety given to every Muslim by almighty Allah.

There are two directions from which every Muslim has to select one.One path that leads you to Heaven, and the other one that leads you to hell. It is obvious that when you do things against the teachings of Islam, you won’t get the guidance by Allah.The same happens with Muslim Umah in the present days as they are not involved in the practices for which they are sent for. Today Muslim wants to preach Islam to others, but he is not ready to adopt Islam. Most of the Muslims are not following the teachings of Islam and this activity of Muslims also disrupt the non Muslims from accepting Islam. A Muslims should represent his Religion in his actions. If a Muslims is doing anti-Islamic activities, then how will other non-Muslim accept Islam?

Therefore, now Muslims became a hindrance in the way of Islam’s  progress.

View the Original article

Islam is the fastest growing religion in the world; perhaps due to the fact that it appears to be the most accommodating faith in developing countries where most of the world’s inhabitants are found. Conversely, it is not as stigmatized as Christianity that has the dubious reputation of being associated if not unfairly, with colonialism. As a Christian, I look at all faiths as equal because in school, we were taught to respect other faiths by virtue of the fact that God will favor you as long as you are an ardent follower of your faith. 

I grew up in a society that comprised diverse faiths, races and ethnic groups. I could be termed a ‘moderate’ because I relate to anybody that I share things in common with. My respect for other faiths helps me to gain a valuable insight into their beliefs, and I sometimes think that if I wasn’t a Christian, I would most probably be a Muslim. This is because The Bible and Quran share striking similarities in material, and the divergent views may not be too far fetched as some may think. Secondly, a major similarity in Christianity, Islam and Jewish religions that cannot be changed is the use of the Old Testament as referred to in the Bible. It is a pointer to the common origin of man.

Based on such perceptions, there is not much of a difference between Christianity and Islam, save for the New Testament where Jesus Christ is referred to as God the Son, whereas he is regarded as a Prophet in the latter. In my view, most of the other divergent views are brought about by the politicization of faiths. I find this dangerous because man has a weakness of diluting the facts when it comes to the interpretation of faith in order to achieve personal gain. Otherwise, we cannot help but admire Muslims for their manner of worship.

Which other religion in the world commits to praying five times a day or fasting during the Holy month of Ramadan. Even those harboring anti-Islamic sentiments will admire the strictness and discipline practiced by its followers; something that is rarely found in other faiths. Other than Muslims banks, which other banks desist from charging interest on credit facilities? These examples bring out the human face of Islam as opposed to its detractors who prefer to create negative stereotypes about its followers.

Ever since the end of the Cold War, we have witnessed a resurgence of Islam because the once dominant superpowers have had to face growing competition from the Islamic World that controls most of the world’s oil reserves. I would not have it any other way because I don’t think the world would be better if the control was vested in the hands of purely capitalistic nations. The Islamic approach to doing business has probably made oil more affordable than it could have been. These are some of the key reasons why I can’t help, but few Islam in a positive light because it has contributed a great deal to equality and respect for fellow men by helping to reduce poverty all over the world. Moreover, in my country, there are numerous Islamic Charity organizations that contribute to the needy through the establishment of educational institutions and hospitals, for example. These have helped thousands of people to gain skills and receive medical treatment that would not be easily found in the region immediately after attaining independence from the British colonialists. As a matter of fact, I was born in the Aga Khan hospital.

My sister-in-law married a Muslim. She was a Christian but converted to Islam without any complaints whatsoever. Every marriage has its challenges, but theirs has not been due to her conversion to Islam. I have schooled and worked with Muslims. I have lived in their midst. What is the difference between two men of different faiths? Believe me, not much. Apart from the fact that their religious beliefs may differ, they are basically the same.

So, it is not for me to judge in my perception towards Islam because my faith teaches me not to pass judgment on others, but God with good reason. Islam should be appreciated because of the important role it plays in the world today.

View the Original article

In the past few decades, Muslims reached every nook and corner of the world. Whether it is for preaching the religion of Allah, or it is the quest for better earnings; it is a fact that every part of the globe has Muslim population to some extent. When it comes to preaching, Muslims have gone as far as the thick and impenetrable forests of Africa and America. They have taken the message of Islam to such regions where people are still uncivilized and cannot understand other languages.

Whereas, when it comes to migration for better jobs and businesses; Muslims have mostly travelled to USA, UK, Canada, Australia and Europe. A great number of Asian Muslims are present in the United Kingdom, who migrated there few decades ago. Now, they have their families settled there, with their businesses set up, and jobs matured.

The highest concentration of Muslims in England is found in London, Bradford, Birmingham, Liverpool, and Manchester. Islam is the second largest religion in England after Christianity. Most of the Muslim community there has come from Pakistan, India and Bangladesh; whereas, a considerable number is from other Asian and African states.

Manchester is one of the most loved cities by Muslims living in the UK. According to 2001 Census of the United Kingdom, Muslims constitute 9.1% of the total population of Manchester; whereas Pakistanis make up 3.8 percent of Manchester’s total population.

The Muslim community of Manchester includes both Sunnis and Shiites. They have their respective Islamic centres in the city where they gather for prayers as well as other events. Manchester Islamic Centre and Didsbury Mosque is a place for all Muslims where they can gather for five prayers and specially Jumma prayers. There is a community/activity hall in the centre which is available for hosting many activities and functions. They can get the hall booked for expositions, weddings, sports, and tutorials. Consistent social gatherings and Quranic classes are also held where there is a library, Sharia department for fatawa, Quran School and Arabic classes.

A very important spot in Manchester is the “Curry Mile”, which is packed with South Asian and Middle Eastern restaurants. About 70 restaurants are spread over an area which is less than a mile. Indian and Pakistani cuisines remain dominant; whereas, Afghani and Arab cuisines also got much recognition in the past years. Every year, a lot of Muslims gather together at the occasions of Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Azha at the Curry Mile.

Manchester has offered better economic and financial prospects to Muslims; they own food and clothing businesses. On the other hand, a great number of Muslims are unable to get a white collar job with handsome salary; they are the victims of poverty even after having gone abroad. Also, a lot of Muslim students reside there in order to enhance their educational qualifications and expand their knowledge.

Muslims in Manchester also work towards preaching the basics of Islam not only to the non-Muslims, but also to the younger Muslim generation who were born and brought up in the UK. They are doing a great service to Islam by spreading Allah’s message to those who seek the illumination of faith.

View the Original article

Recently, there was a recession that hit almost every part of the world including England; however, England is considered as one of those nations that have strong economic conditions. It is considered one of those developed countries.

Talking about the opportunities is particular, it depends upon the economic growth of the country. If the country is growing on a steady economic rate then there are equal number of chances and opportunities in the country.

Unfortunately, in the recent years the economy of the UK is not growing with the rate with which the government wishes to move with, as a result, there was a lack of opportunities which also affected a lot of Muslims. There are thousands of Muslims who were residing permanently in the UK, and every year thousands of Muslims move to the UK for different purposes. Due to the high educational standard universities of the United Kingdom that attracts Muslims students from all parts of the world to study in the countery. Not only this, but also the British law is flexible enough that it allows the Muslims students to stay after completing the degree, and then they can seek a good opportunity in the UK. Not all of the countries permit having a job for the overseas students after completing the degree.

All of the developed countries have strong laws in getting sustainability in the economy, and the astonishing fact is that the people who come from other countries do have string role in raising the economy. But now, the economic condition is quite good and it is now in a rebuilding phase. In the UK, there are equal opportunities for the Muslims. The fact can be best understood with an example that Muslims are allowed to have representation in the government, and there are lots of people sitting in the assemblies.

There are community centers developed by Muslims, and newly coming Muslims don’t find it as a place that is unknown. Muslims are allowed to have religious practices the way they want. There are no restrictions. Particularly, if we focus on the opportunities given to Muslims in the UK, then it would be justified to say that Muslims are given equal opportunities in getting jobs and setting up businesses. There is a large population of Muslims communities that is running the business for many years and this fact also encourages other Muslims to have a business set up in England. Muslims are playing an active role in making the economy stronger, and Muslims are found in every sector. There is no such discrimination against Muslims, and the laws are equally applicable to every single individual resided in England.

View the Original article

Islam is the 2nd largest religion of the world, and its followers are increasing day by day. This is a good sign, but the threat is that some Muslims show hatred towards the west, and this hatred often becomes the cause of conflict between the Muslims and the west.

This is a very serious issue, and very deep research is needed to get to the root of the problem as maintaining peace in the world would not be that easy with the existence of hatred.

The western culture provides all citizens with complete freedom to live their lives they way they want. There is no law to control one’s personal life. You are not bound by anyone, and you can live they way you like. In the western civilization, the concept of God exists, and people can call him in their prayers.

When it comes to Muslims, things are entirely opposite. Muslims believe in oneness of God, and getting the pleasure of God is the most important thing for a Muslim. When Muslims observe such ignorance of God by the western people, quite naturally, they start hating their ideas, and that leads them to hate the westerns.

This is just a simple example. As a matter of fact, the ideas of Muslims and the Western people are exactly opposite as far as religion and general ethics are concerned. West has a culture which allows them full freedom, whereas Muslims are bound by the teachings of the Holy Prophet (S.A.W) and those of the Holy Quran. For Muslims, a better life in the coming world is important while westerns try to seize all pleasure in this lifetime. Due to such differences in the ideas and mental approaches, there is a mutual hate between the two being discussed here.

If we peep into the annals of history, we see that it was Islam that came after Christianity, and from that time to this time, Christians have been trying to eliminate the followers of Islam and the religion itself as they consider it necessary for their own survival. Due to this, from the 6th century to this century, they have always made efforts to get rid of Islam. These efforts of them have given rise to the hatred in the Muslims. Moreover, the actions such as drawing the cartoons of the Holy Prophet (S.A.W), the burning of Holy Quran and other actions of disrespect and the attitude of the Government of western areas regarding these actions is what makes Muslims hate the western people.

View the Original article

← PreviousNext →

There is a large number of Muslims in the Western countries especially America, most of whom came from places like Southern Asia, Iran and Arabic speaking countries. The question is, can they be true Muslims in these western countries? A number of western countries have lax cultures that could be off putting to a strict Muslim person(s).

An example is, a strict outstanding Muslim family values the dress code especially for women, clothes that go well over to the knees are favored to preserve respect in their women folk. In the western culture however, people dress according to what they feel like, the weather condition they find themselves in, among other factors. For example, in some parts of the US, especially Miami, you will find people dressed in only shorts for men, and a two piece swim suit for the ladies, or extremely short shorts and dresses.

On the other hand, since most western countries offer diversity to their people, it is left up to the Muslim on whether or not they choose to remain true to their religion. There are a number of Muslim social centers, mosques and Muslim cultural sites all over the west which aim at keeping a staunch Muslim close to his or her Muslim culture, or practice.

It may be a little hard especially for the weak Muslim in the west to follow through with their culture. This could be attributed to the fact that they may want to fit in with the new society they find themselves in. Major examples are the Muslim children especially the teenagers. If they find themselves in a non-Muslim only school, then to help them not feel discriminated from the rest of the crowd at school, they tend to follow the western trends. For example, in order not to have to explain their Ramadan season, and why they are fasting, they will opt to say that they are on a diet, which will be likely to raise less eye-brows from their peers.

For the teenage girls, much as they may come from strict Muslim upbringing, some tend to copy their western peers in order to avoid the bullying that comes with being different or in order to fit in with the rest of the crowd. It can come as no surprise to find a teenage Muslim girl, leaving her parent’s or guardian’s home in a Muslim attire, and carrying a spare to change into before they reach school, the spare is normally what is on the trend in terms of the girls fashion, which could be a short version than what they are expected to wear.

For the Muslims especially teenagers who are determined to remain true to their religion however, can still do so in the west. There are a number of organizations that are set up to help Muslims remain true to their religion and practices. Parents are also opting to take their children to all Muslim schools so that the Muslim culture can be instilled in them and avoid being affected by the west culture.

View the Original article

More than 1 billion persons are Muslims in this world living in different countries. Traditions, cultures, and various aspects of Islam are totally different from other religions. Islam is a complete religion that has teachings for each and every matter of life. Islam is a sophisticated religion, but it strictly prohibits the Muslims to not follow the traditions, culture and the various aspects of the other religions.

Today‘s Islamic culture and traditions are totally different from the Islamic traditions that were few hundred years ago. Today Muslim has no faith in Islam.

In the history of Islam, the situation was totally different. Muslims enjoyed good health, high literacy rate, peace, respect, various victories due to their deep and strong faith in Islam. These were the actual Muslims who were following the basic rules and principles of Islam.

Today, many Muslims due to their wrong actions and sins, they continually lack prosperity. One needs the latest technology and the other needs to be a modern individual. Today youngsters are totally following other cultures in a dream to become modern and fashionable. They have forgotten the basic rules and principles of Islam.

As we know that every coin has two sides, same as the latest technology has both positive, as well as, negative aspects. Electronic media is a medium that keeps us in touch with the latest news around the world. While sitting at our home, we know what is happening on other parts of the world. It is also the best means of communication that allows us to communicate with our loved ones easily. Electronic media has made our lives much faster and comfortable, but at the same time, it is continually damaging our young generation.

There are various channels that usually show other cultures and traditions. They develop a thinking that non-Muslims culture is better to most of the young generation. Today, one of the most alarming situations is that of the young Muslim generations who totally forget their religion.

About the author

I am running a freelance company to provide development, designing, seo and writing services.

View the Original article

It is very prominent that, discrimination towards Muslims is increasing day by day. In the recent past, it has reached on the summit of mount Everest. The time has come to do something to minimize such hatred but is there anything really present in this world which can bring these two almost opponent ideologies united together?

What will you call such behavior where, every Muslim is treated near to a terrorist? Have anyone experienced persecution on western airports just because of being a Muslim? Many of you will say yes, I know. In all European countries including UK and in USA, Islam is the second or the third largely practiced religion everywhere. Still some countries ban wearing hijab, others humiliate people wearing so. What name you will give to such treatment? As you are ill treating a particular group, like you did towards Negroes throughout centuries, why not it is also named “Racism”?

We, Muslims are hopeful that, as the literal racism abolished, one day, discrimination and intolerance towards Muslims will also vanish. To make this possible, people from every corner, of any culture and religion, should try to know individual Muslims. Yes, all Muslims admit that, terrorists are anti socialist. There is no chance of terrorism or extremism in Islam. Every Muslim hates such extremists as others do. It is not justifiable that, the definition of terrorism or extremism is another name of Islam. It is as wrong as when people used to think, the sun is moving around the earth. If native western people take some steps to change their view towards Muslims, then it can be possible, so from Muslims also. The very first step towards this mission is to stop thinking every Muslim Laden.

With respect to each other, understanding every point of view and helping the promotion of Muslims rights can minimize this poison developed between Muslims and the west. Native people should shed of all prejudice and ensure the freedom on their fellow Musolmans.

Many Muslim renowned people are there on earth and in western countries, who have become a very important person as celebrities in their field of work. Some of them are also in politics. They should take care of these issues starting from the state levels. Such representatives can enforce laws to reduce these intolerances and can work on increasing public awareness in conservative ways. Both sides have the freedom of expression, but that should not enhance violence. Research says, education can give pace on such missions, so it should be practiced in every house, and school to maintain a good bonding with Muslims. As there are thousands of organizations in humanitarian grounds, international organization and NGOs should be built on this ‘prevent religious discrimination’ ground. These organizations can emphasize on promoting cultural & religious harmony in the west.

An attempt has been taken a long time ago in the year of 2007 in Spain, a conference held where more than 300 participants, international organizations, NGOs and many elite of Muslim intolerance issues were present. They gave priorities on promoting Muslim-West mutual understanding to reduce racism. Though, we haven’t got any fruitful result from them, still we are hoping to get such a spring devoid of western racism towards Muslims.

About the author

I am a nice, understanding, caring, sincere, honest, trustworthy, friendly single male from Delhi, India. I'm an experienced writer. I have written many articles in different niches, a fiction book, and some poems.

View the Original article

 
By David Gibson and Lauren Markoe, 04/16/2013
 
(RNS) No sooner had the reality of the Boston Marathon bombing sunk in on Monday (April 15) afternoon than Muslim activists in the U.S. began sending out a slew of news releases, tweets and Facebook messages urging prayers and aid for the victims — and condemning whoever was behind the horrific attack.

“American Muslims, like Americans of all backgrounds, condemn in the strongest possible terms today’s cowardly bomb attack on participants and spectators of the Boston Marathon,” Nihad Awad, executive director of the Council on American-Islamic Relations said in a statement on Monday.

It’s a familiar race against time for Muslim groups. Almost as soon as the smoke cleared around Copley Square, they knew from long experience that some would immediately point the finger of blame in their direction.

Many widely believed Muslims were behind the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing, until American militiaman Timothy McVeigh was convicted of the crime.

“We also call for the swift apprehension and punishment of the perpetrators,” Awad added, echoing a statement from the Muslim Public Affairs Council that called on “all of us as Americans to work together to bring those responsible to justice.”

Still, regular Fox News guest commentator Erik Rush quickly sent out tweets blaming Muslims, adding in one, “Let’s kill them,” a post he subsequently deleted. “Jihad in America,” wrote anti-Muslim blogger Pam Geller.

Speaking about the bombings on his ”700 Club” program, Pat Robertson was also furious: “Don’t talk to me about religion of peace” — the way Muslims describe their faith — “No way.”

On his show, conservative host Glenn Beck opined that “no American citizen blows up random people; that’s a Middle Eastern scene, that’s not an American scene. When our crazies go off, they target the government, not streets that are crowded with people.”

On Monday afternoon, the New York Post had to pull a story that reported that police had a Saudi suspect in custody. Later reports that a Saudi national’s apartment near Boston had been searched also raised anxieties among Muslims; the man, who was wounded in the bombing, was subsequently cleared.

“Discrimination against Muslims has been a real dynamic in the United States,” said Christina Warner, campaign director of Shoulder-to-Shoulder, a national interfaith alliance of Muslims, Jews and Christians who combat anti-Muslim prejudice. “We’ve already seen some reports falsely identifying the perpetrator as a Saudi individual when he was just a witness.”

“Obviously it’s a matter of concern,” said Naeem Baig, president of the Islamic Circle of North America, though he added that he has been impressed so far with the restraint shown by mainstream commentators.

“I see a very cautious and balanced approach from the media. It shows a lot of responsibility on their part, not jumping to conclusions,” he said.

“And the president and his statements were very balanced and mature,” Baig said. “Overall, politicians and the media have behaved responsibly.”

Yet if, in fact, Muslim extremists turn out to be associated in any way with the Boston bombing, then the fears in the Muslim community — and the efforts at damage control — will rise to a whole new level.

Already, Iowa congressman Steve King has drawn flack for suggesting that the possibility that a Saudi national was involved in the bombing would be reason enough to rethink immigration reform.

“If that’s the case, then we need to take a look at the big picture,” King, a Republican, told National Review Online. “If we can’t background-check people that are coming from Saudi Arabia, how do we think we are going to background check the 11 to 20 million people that are here from who knows where?”

On the flip side, members of King’s own party pushed back against that use of the Boston tragedy.

“We should really be very cautious about using language that links these two things in any way,” Sen. Marco Rubio of Florida told reporters on Tuesday. “We know very little about Boston other than that it was obviously an act of terror. We don’t know who carried it out or why they carried it out, and I would caution everyone to be very careful about linking the two.”

Article Courtesy: Huffington Post

View the Original article

The West, being the most developed part of the world, is globally regarded as an insignia of a successful life. Included in the definition of success are the following key factors: equal work opportunities; job satisfaction; financial stability and continuous professional growth and the West promises to facilitate its residents with all of these. It does not only accommodate natives in a graceful manner but also warmly welcomes foreigners to get benefitted from its prosperity stream.

In the same context, west is a land of prospects for Muslims, too. Only in the UK, Muslims are a great majority. Though they are facing hard times in some countries like France, yet they are free to live according to their religion in most of the western countries. Since Islam is the fastest growing religion here, it is evident that Muslims are provided with an environment which helps them practice Islam. It offers them a fine living experience with a handful of opportunities to grow both in the academic and professional streams. Those Muslims, who have western citizenship, are entitled to all the benefits offered by the government without any discrimination.

Muslims can live a very successful life in west. They can enjoy financial freedom since western society is the most developed. When Western Muslims are inquired about what so special they enjoy being a part of this society; they answer with a smiling face – equal opportunity. They are provided full support to be a successful and effective member of society and through this factor are encouraged to go ahead in life. They can enjoy a career oriented life where there is full job satisfaction; continual training and development leading towards career growth.

West helps through its influential platform a Muslim researcher to advance further in his respective area of study. Western research based program and projects are indeed a gateway for Muslim to earn global recognition for their intellect and wisdom.

Nowadays, west takes a more broad view of Islamic art and thought. Indeed, the age is past when oriental bias promulgated hatred against the West. Today, western scholars consider Islam as a growing factor in the light of its own teachings. Historians of religion contribute much time and space to the development of Islamic thought, which is fascinating in all its glory.

The ”open the door” policy started by the west has encouraged Muslims to settle there. Now the west stands not as a grim prospect hindering the growth of Islam. West, on the other hand, has helped in the democratization of Islam, and has enabled it to realize its own potentialities.

Orientalism and Occidentalism are now being reconciled to produce a harmony, and the west is playing a key role in sustaining this blended identity. As a Muslim, one finds the works, considered as a magnum opus in their respective ages, preserved in full form in Western libraries. Respecting the Islamic limitation on promiscuous intermingling, as a consequence of co-education, western societies and groups are helping Muslim communities to build separate schools, where education is imparted on equal footings.

Our only hope of peace is a world where tolerance is practiced, and tolerance is possible only if we learn to remove our mutual differences. If we can bridge the gap between the Western world and Islam, we can build a world where love and peace prevail.

About the author

View the Original article

The acts of violence and persecution against the Muslims had been initiated soon after the 9/11 attacks. Although still it has never been proved that only Muslims were involved in those attacks, still most of the American population holds quite negative views about them. The one thing, that is visible in all this, is the use of principle of hasty generalization.

In other words, it is never logical and rational to tag a complete religion as being the mother of terrorists, because only 1 % of the followers of that religion engage in acts of violence and terrorism. Apart from this, the acts driven by violence are still visible in one form or the other. Moreover, the acts had also continued in the year 2007 and 2008. The most serious forms of these offenses include a number of physical and mental assaults, which are most of the times quite deadly. These assaults have been directed not only to the ordinary Muslims, but also towards the Muslim leaders.

Moreover, there is no end to the arrests that have been made in the name of terrorism. In reality, the only reason for these arrests have been the individual’s involvement in the religion of Islam. In more simple words, being a Muslim became their crime, in a similar manner that the African Americans were tagged to be criminals not so long ago.

The complexity of the prejudice against Muslims is also intensified by a number of dimensions of discrimination which can be seen in various incidents all over the United States. In addition, these acts of violence show an overlay of various forms of intolerance which are, most of the times, based on the victim’s religion and ethnicity. Unfortunately, not only men who face such violance, but also women and children have been subject to these mental and physical assaults that are being carried against them. The most visible sign of violence and discrimination, against the women in Islam, is the verbal abuse through which the women who make use of Hijab have to go through. Surely, some of the law enforcement agencies have responded to these rising issues, but still they seem to have failed in exercising a control over this hatred which seems to be growing with every second that passes us by.

Another prime problem here is underreporting, as most of the victims are threatened for not going to the police. Now in regrad to these assaults which are being carried out in the domain of the country which considers itself to be the leader and founder of secularism and peace, isn’t it all a form of terrorism. For those who do not know about the exact definition, let me tell you that terrorism does not only involves the use of weapons of mass destruction, but it also encapsulates the use of physical and verbal violence that is intended to harm the other person in any manner possible. Knowing this fact, who is the real terrorist?

About the author

writer @Omniya_Fareed on Twitter
Hope you all enjoy my work! :)

View the Original article

“INVITE ALL TO THE WAY OF LORD, WITH WISDOM AND BEAUTIFUL PREACHING, AND ARGUE WITH THEM IN WAYS THAT ARE BEST AND MOST GRACIOUS!”

(AL-QURAN 16:125)

Islam is a universal religion. It is meant for all mankind. ALLAH is the Lord of the whole universe. Therefore, Muslims have been allotted with the duty of conveying his message to the entire universe. To develop a better image of Islam among all humans, we should be very sensitive towards our duty. Revealing Islam as the best code of life, we should share its preaching to whom this knowledge is not yet conveyed.

In most of the cases, it is usually not sufficient to mention only positive aspects of Islam. As many non-Muslims are not convinced with this positive nature of Islam because there are few questions at the back of their minds which are remained unanswered. For the time, they may agree with your contentions, but deep in their minds they have few ambiguities; like the possibilty of marrying more than one woman by Muslim men. During preaching, we should give a free hand to non-Muslims to reveal their points of view and criticism.

To prove Islam as the best religion of the world, Muslims need to take some physical and mental steps.

Muslims should read Quran every day. As the Quran is a direct speech of ALLAH. It’s a way of guidance for Muslims. Islam emphasizes on treating people gently. Islam strictly prohibits terrorism. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said :

“Don’t kill women and children and non-combatants and don’t kill old people or religious people ….”

Muslims, therefore, request from the media and the people not to use annoying phrases such as “Muslim terrorists” when mentioning a terrorist attack.

According to Islamic teachings, men and women should be treated and respected equally so that this world comes to know that Muslims are not cruel, instead Muslims are against brutality. Muslims should allow their women equally to seek knowledge and education. Since from the beginning of Islam, there were no restrictions and prohibition for women to seek education and employments.

Muslims must be clean to represent their religion as purity is half of faith. A Muslim should never miss his prayer and try to pray at MASJID as much as possible. Muslims can show Islam as the best religion for all mankind by uniting the Muslims around the world. ALLAH said in the Quran:

“Hold fast altogether by the rope which ALLAH (stretches out for you) and be not divide among yourselves: and remember with gratitude Allah’s favor on you; for ye were enemies and He joined your hearts in love so that by His grace ye became brethren”. (Verse 013, Al-i-Imran).

Muslims should avoid division by ignoring all kind of local nationalism. Muslims are largely divided due to their sectarian beliefs in the name of Islam. By taking these measures, Muslims can influence the image of Islam and show it as the best religion of the world.

About the author

I love to write creative articles. I have been writing on different social and religious topics for 2 years now. Give me a creative topic and I will write it for you.

View the Original article

There are many Muslim families settled in the UK, and they are not only well established but also are very content with the life in the United Kingdom. According to a census made in 2011, there are about 2.7 million Muslims residing in the United Kingdom. In this way, it is the second largest population in the United Kingdom after Christians. Since the formation of the UK, Islam has been ever present and growing in popularity, but it was not legally recognized until the Act of Trinitarian  was passed in 1812.

Though the Muslims in England are some time accused of their beliefs, dress, hijab and attitude, England seems to be the best place for Muslim families to live as indicated by several factors. The most important indicator for this claim is that here the Muslims families do not only enjoy their lives, but Islam itself is growing in the area, and is recognized as the fastest growing religion in the United Kingdom. The numbers of conversions to Islam are growing every year. According to one report, there are 100,000 converts to Islam in the UK and about 66% of the converts are females.

The Muslim community in the UK feels pleasure living in a European environment. Almost all of the families live at a high standard. They are either involved in their own businesses, or they are working full time jobs. A Muslim female expressed the living in the UK as “though my parents are not native to this land, but this is my homeland as I was born here and I love to live here”.

According to the current socio-economic position of most of the Muslim countries, many of their citizens are migrating either to the UK or other European countries. A man who immigrated to the UK in 2006 explained his feelings as “I am basically from Syria, but I found more economic activity here despite the fact that I am safer and more in peace of mind”.

According to a report published in 2012 in Guardian, about 83% of Muslims feel contended and proud for living in the UK and they feel good to be British citizens, and about 82% of the total Muslim population want to continue their lives in the UK, and more surprisingly they want to live in diverse and mixed communities instead of just being confined to a Muslim neighborhood. There are many cross marriages between Muslims and native English and they are living a very pleasant lifes with children and grandchildren in some cases. Muslims in Britain do enjoy the liberty of expression, equality of human rights, stability of business and jobs, security of their families, beliefs and assets, and above all the clean environment which all are actually just in accord with the real ideology of Islam.

About the author

View the Original article

February 16, 2013
 
Bismillahir Rahmanir Raheem
 
Assalamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullah wa Barakatuh
 
Dear Muslims:
 
I hope and pray that this letter reaches you while you are in the best state of health and Eman.
 
The Islamic Circle of North America, ICNA, is an organization for all Muslims living in the United States of America.

Since its inception in 1968, the brothers and sisters belonging to ICNA have been working day and night for the cause of Islam, seeking only the pleasure of Allah .

In ICNA we have a very democratic process. Members of ICNA elect their leaders at various levels to run the affairs of this organization. In January of this year, the members of the ICNA General Assembly have put this great task on my shoulders by electing me as President of ICNA for the 2013 – 2014 session.

I request that all of you make dua for me and pray that Allah enables me to fulfill my responsibility in the best manner by following His Commandments and the Sunnah of our beloved Prophet Muhammad .

I have great respect for our elders who have given their best for the Deen of Allah . And I love all of you for the sake of Allah . I am confident that you will stand by my side, shoulder to shoulder, and we will face all hurdles and challenges together as we move forward inshaAllah.

ICNA has almost 40 chapters and sub-chapters throughout the country. This kind of grassroots presence makes it possible for us to involve the American Muslim community and the larger community in many ways. ICNA is known for its outreach/Dawah efforts; we are constantly engaged in relief work and social services and remain committed to social justice causes. ICNA Sisters’ Wing helps sisters effectively learn about Islam. Young Muslims (YM), the youth division of ICNA, runs over 60 study groups for the American Muslim youth.

Dear brothers and sisters, Allah , is All Just and All Wise. He , tells us in the Quran:

“No soul shall be given a burden that he cannot bear.” (Al-Baqarah: 286)

Allah , will not test us with what we cannot bear. I see a great horizon of opportunities for the American Muslims. Trials and tribulation will come, but, at the same time, He , will give us the ability to handle such challenges inshaAllah.

Let us all build a bond of brotherhood and strengthen our relationships with one another. ICNA is committed to working together with all Muslim organizations and masajid. We do not represent any one ethnicity or follow any particular sect. We are an organization of American Muslims and we have made a commitment to work for the betterment of all people.

I invite you to join ICNA and I assure you that, inshaAllah, you will not find yourself in the company of strangers.

May Allah , bless us all with the best in this world and in the hereafter. Ameen.

Sincerely,
Your Brother in Islam,
Naeem M. Baig

President
Islamic Circle of North America

View the Original article

 
OnIslam & News Agencies, 29 March 2013
 
TIJUANA, Mexico — Gathering from different countries at the sleepy beach of Tijuana, a growing number of the city’s population are becoming Muslims, finding Islamic values close to the country’s Catholic traditions.

“The Catholic emphasis on family and family values meshes a lot with Islam,” Dr. Khaleel Mohammed, a professor of Islamic and religious studies at San Diego State University, told KPBS network on Thursday, March 28.

“The difference, however, is that whereas many Catholics see the Roman Catholic values being eroded in the United States in particular, a lot of them are seeing in Islam a difference in that there are more Muslims trying to stick to the traditional Islamic values than leave them aside,” Mohammed added.

Though Tijuana was not the first choice for many immigrants, finding Islam was the greatest gift they have ever got.

Enjoying a welcoming atmosphere from Tijuana people, the Muslim population was growing steadily in the small city, with people coming from India, Costa Rica, the Middle East, Mexico and the United States.

At the city, Muslims have established a new Masjid al-Islam mosque to give the estimated 200 practicing Muslims in Baja California a place to worship.

This mosque is one of two new Islamic centers within a mile of one another, both of which have opened within the past three years.

“I never thought ‘I’m gonna live in Mexico,’ honestly,” Muhanna Jamaleddin, the imam (spiritual leader) and founder of Masjid al-Islam, said.

“So all these reasons come from God, and we thank Allah.”

According to WhyIslam’s 2012 annual report, 19 percent of the some 3,000 converts it assisted in 2011 were Latinos, and more than half of those (55 percent) were women.

The 2011 US Mosque Survey, which interviewed leaders at 524 mosques across the country, found the number of new female converts to Islam had increased 8 percent since 2000.

Of that number, Latinos accounted for 12 percent of all new converts in the United States in 2011.

Life Changing

Though Tijuana was not the first choice for many immigrants, finding Islam was the greatest gift they have ever got.

“It changed my life, you know,” Amir Carr, a native Californian, and a convert to Islam, told Fronteras Desk.
Carr, a tall man wearing glasses and a taqiyyah, or prayer cap, sits in a wheelchair across from his wife, Na’eema, who is wearing a loose blouse and a head scarf.

“I was a — a street kid, you know. I got put in this wheelchair for hanging out and hanging out with gangs and stuff like this, and I got shot.

When he got out of prison in California, his wife Na’eema, a Mexican national, was deported.

“They pulled us over for speeding, and they deported her within about an hour. It was so quick that you just couldn’t even believe it,” Carr says, shaking his head.

Coming to live in Playas, Tijuana, he was introduced for the first time to Islam, which changed his life for good.

“And for the first time I sat down in my life and listened, and when I listened to Islam, it actually changed my life,” Carr said.

Same as Carr, the life of Samuel Cortes, another convert, changed when he came to live in the sleepy beach city of Tijuana.

Growing up Glendale, on the outskirts of Los Angeles, Cortes was a longtime gang member who was deported after spending time in prison for aggravated assault.

“I started gangbanging when I was 9. I stopped when I was 21. When I decided to put that aside, if it wasn’t other gang member from other neighborhoods who were trying to kill me, it was my own neighborhood that was trying to come after me because I wanted to change my life,” Cortes said.

Though Tijuana was not his first choice, he is happy with the turn his life has taken after getting married and receiving his first baby daughter.

“I left everything back there [in the United States] and that’s fine. I mean, hopefully, one day I’ll be able to get my visa and go back forth and just visit my family,” he said.

“But for the time being, I’m just mostly concentrated on my daughter, Islam, and work.”

Coming to Tijuana either by choice or no, many Muslims ended up staying in Mexico rather than trying to get back into the United States.

“When we open a masjid here they don’t even blink,” Carr said.

They look with curiosity and they ask, but for sure they don’t march. I mean, for sure nothing negative comes out of them.

“They just accept it as they would accept anybody else.”

Article Courtesy: OnIslam

View the Original article

With a great deal of educational; financial; professional and recreational opportunities; the United States indeed is a global center of attraction. It would not be wrong to say that it shines like North Star on the sky of universe. It’s a land full of prospects and progress. It is not an exaggeration to say that 1 out of every 5 persons wishes to be a U.S Citizen. One of the greatest attributes which is linked to the US is the applicability of “Equality” for all, where no one is above the rules of law, and this is really laudable. Where the United States is a land of prosperity for Christians and Jews, the same way it welcomes Muslims. It embraces them with open arms and promises them finest living standards within their religious bounds.

The United States is slowly shaking off the bonds that separated it from the Islamic fraternity. For nearly a century, the US forsook Islam, considering it orthodox. Now it has begun to realize the potentialities latent in Islam. It has also realized that it can use these potentialities to brighten its own future. The US offers a constitution based on egalitarianism, and so does Islam. Both mingle well at the grass roots level. The US of today is making huge efforts to bridge the gap between itself and the Muslim World and for so has come forward with various options in all walks of life.

It is widely heard that every Muslim wishes to live in the US, however, it’s more of a psychological factor than an economical one. Muslims, just like non Muslims, are also desirous to get settled where their rights are duly respected and recognized not only on humanitarian grounds but on religious too. In the US, Muslim communities have full freedom to live according to the teachings as laid by the Holy Quran and Sunnah.

There are Islamic centers in each of its state from where Muslims can gain religious knowledge and can resolve their issues as per Islam law and legislation. There are universities with seats reserved for genius Muslim students so that they can explore their hidden potentials. Muslim scholars and researchers have been provided with Islamic chairs in all the major universities of the country. Muslims have been given job placements according to their skill set in the professional platforms. Today, a large number of Muslims in the US are working at major positions in major departments both at governmental and private levels. In totality, it offers Muslims the required opportunity scale to mark their success in the economic and social spectrums.

Muslims from all across the globe are looking forwards towards this country with the new hope that lifts away all traces of discrimination that were there before. They are keen to be an efficient part of the US population for it offers them the chance towards professional glory and economic prosperity. They wish to live here not because it offers a financial victory stand but for the fact that it opens for them the gateway to proceed further in life while realizing their own competencies and utilizing them accordingly.

About the author

View the Original article

Most of the Muslims are perceived as being violent and extremists, all because of the fact that the first world countries are ignorant about the reality and the wisdom of Islam. From an analytical dimension, it is true that Islam doesn’t teach its followers to engage in such criminal acts. There are a few extremist groups in Islam, but it does not mean that other religions do not have simillar extremist groups. So, why only the Muslims are targeted with a number of stereotypes, which are indeed not complimentary for them? The Arabs are the ones among the Muslims who have always been portrayed quite negatively in Hollywood and all other movies. When you watch a movie which focuses on Arabs, their image is always depicted like those who of the ancient Jews. In other words, Arabs are shown to be sinister and dangerous. In every act of terror, it is always shown that Arabs or Muslims are involved. This is indeed quite unjust from the side of the movie makers. For example, if Italians have a number of Mafia groups, then is it justified to call all Italians as being Mafia members? The same applies to the Jews, as well. For example, if a number of Jews are financiers, then is it right to categorize all of them as being a part an international conspiracy?

Movies are indeed a source of entertainment and fun for all, but at what cost this fun is being offered to the audience? Depicting the Arabs and Muslims in a stereotypical manner is a testament of cruelty and injustice. Motion pictures have the power to transform the views of the public, so it is better to make good use of them. It is the time for these countries, marked for their prejudicial and stereotypical attitudes towards the Muslims, to change their views. No matter how many people would agree with me on this, but we can never undermine the fact that Muslims were the ones who laid the foundations of scientific thinking in the world. Moreover, their early physicists are the ones to be credited for the advancements that are now being made in these fields by making use of their concepts. Tagging the Muslims as being intellectual and lazy, is quite illogical, as it is not coherent with the contributions of the Muslims for science, art, mathematics, astronomy, geology and in all other fields. Most of the Muslims are nothing more than ordinary people who want to enjoy peaceful lives. They also have ambitions and talent. Not to forget, that some of the best doctors and pathologists in the world happen to have their origins in the Muslim nations. It is surely corroborated now that humanity is the thing we should respect as the Arabs and Muslims are also human beings. The one thing that makes us different from the animals is our humanity, so it is better if we respect it.

About the author

writer @Omniya_Fareed on Twitter
Hope you all enjoy my work! :)

View the Original article

Islam is a growing religion in Europe especially France. Of the 15 million Muslims population in entire Europe, 5 million (over 30%) live in France, a demographic reality that the French people find it difficult to deal with. There are countless discussions, every now and then, on various forums citing Muslims as an “issue” or a “problem”. The famous notion of “clash of Civilizations” is especially applicable to Islam according to the western version. They equate Islam with terror and violence.

Muslims have always been considered a ‘threat’ and a ‘problem’ by the French people. Recently, the issue of the French ban on hijab stirred a lot of controversy and confusion across the globe. Another issue is the construction of mosques and loud call for prayer which is considered one of the greatest examples of the “clash of civilizations” by the French citizens. As of now, only five mosques stand in France for the entire five million Mulims, who live in Paris, Mantes la Jolie, Evry, Lille, and Lyon. The French citizens strongly put hurdles in efforts to build more. While the town mayors routinely and regularly ignore petitions to construct more mosques. To live peacefully in the country, the Muslims are pressurized to merge and defuse their identity.

France is as secular country as it can be. They applied the rule of “distance between church and state” in 1905 by banning any kind of ostentatious display of religious symbols in public schools. Although this was promulgated initially to root out the Catholic Christians, same law is now applicable to Muslims. The infamous Act “banning the veil in public space” is a clear proof of what they actually want. It is not just the government but society and white French people generally sneer at religion, and give such disturbing looks towards covered Muslim women suspecting them as a sign of violence. The underlying principle behind these laws and attitude is the historical commitment to secularism in France.

Second and third generation of Muslims suffer from an identity crisis. In France, they are immigrants, facing discrimination and unemployment, and in their ‘home’ country they are bound to live as foreigners. The Muslim population is alienated and excluded in all sorts, be it finding work, house to live or social mingling. The largest numbers of immigrants are living in areas which are ‘zones of economic and social exclusion” and have become synonymous with immigrants, extremism, rigidity and violence.

The tension between Muslims and the other French citizens is rising, and there is no effective steps being taken at the governmental level to stop this go. The recent issue of the ban on headscarf has increased the rift. Muslims are being oppressed to live according to their religion; are deprived of their due share of peaceful living and working conditions. The future of France and the Muslims in France hangs on the balance of whether the French people will allow Muslims to become a part of them. Islam is a reality; its here and Muslims should be recognized as a definite religious minority with rights and identity. It’s time for France to represent its love for human rights by taking away such unnecessary impositions, and barriers that are impeding the Muslim ideology.

About the author

View the Original article

 

Islam is the only religion that is based on the relationship of an individual directly to God without the presence of an intermediary. There is not the slightest of doubt in mentioning that Muslims have indeed played a determining and inspiring role in reshaping the face of the world. When it comes to the Muslim World, fame and influence is determined on the base of knowledge, power, respect and authority. In terms of classifying the Famous Muslims of all, there are three categories which we are going to see. These categories include Monarchs, Leaders and various religious scholars who have played a vital role in defining the Islamic world. Here are some of the most Famous Muslims of all times.

King Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz-King of Saudi Arabia

Surely, Abdullah Bin Abdul Aziz is presently the most influential and famous Muslim in the world. Being the King of Saudi Arabia, he is also the custodian and guardian of the Two Holy Mosques. Moreover, he also controls the World’s largest Muslim missionary network, Da’wa and also the largest oil reserves of the world.

Grand Ayatollah Hajj Sayyid Ali Khamenei-Supreme Leader of Iran

Being the supreme leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran and Shia Muslims all over the world, he has always had a unique role to play in terms of political and religious affairs of the Muslims. The reason for his fame in the country and all over the world is due to the role he had played in the Iranian Revolution.

King Muhammad VI-The King of Morocco

Known by the names of Amir-al-Muminin or The Commander of the Faithful, Muhammad VI is known for his revolutionary reforms and policies which have led to the modernization of the country. Furthermore, he has also been able to tackle the issues of poverty, corruption and recession in a more effective manner. Further to your knowledge, he is presently the only legitimate contender for the Islamic Caliphate. He also controls the Maliki Muslims Network all over the world.

Abdullah II Bin Al Hussein-King of Jordan

The reason for which he exercises a great deal of influence in Jordan and in a number of other Muslim countries is all because of this lineage that goes to the Hashemite Family. He is also regarded in respectful terms for his contributions to the country’s free market economies, freedom of expression, international diplomacy and reshaping the face of Jordan.

Grand Ayatollah Sayyid Ali Husseni Sistani

Being a spiritual, religious and a prime marja for all the Shia Muslims in the world, Ali Sistani has always played a vital role in the religious matters of Iraq. The cause for his importance and respect in the Islamic World is due to his pure lineage and eloquent knowledge about Islam.

Mahmoud Ahmadinejad-President of Iran

Last but not the least, we have the President of Iran, who is indeed a man marked by valor and courage and one of only Muslim leaders who have taken an aggressive approach towards external influences and powers. Moreover, under his regime the economy of the country has shown a boom in addition to the development of military sectors.

There are also a number other influential Muslims including

• Sheikh Dr. Ali Goma’a-Grand Mufti of Egypt
• Mohammad Mahdi Akef
• Hajji Mohammad Abdul Wahab
• Abdullah Gul-President of Turkey
• Khaled Mashaal-Leader of the Hamas
• Professor Sayid Ameen Mian Qaudri-Barelwi Leader

About the author

writer @Omniya_Fareed on Twitter
Hope you all enjoy my work! :)

View the Original article