Salafi if one looks for contradictions in anything, then he is sure to find it, and even when some don't find any contradictions they twist the words to make it seem so. As we are all aware Dhaif Hadiths can be found even in the most authentic of all books namely Bukhari, Muslim etc. So finding a Dhaif Hadeeth in Fazail A'mal does not disqualify it all together, in the same way it shouldn't in other books. The only book that is without flaws is the book of Allah. When we come across Hadiths that are classified as Dhaif, we should ask Allah ask in an earnest and sincere manner to give us the good in it and to turn us away from the bad it contains. As long as the slave of Allah is sincere about his actions, then Allah is Al-Ghafoor. But to act as if we know everything and can tell instantly between that which is good or bad for us, is not the way to Allah. For a more specific answer to you're assertion that Fazail A'maal contains all fabricated shirk, refer to this link for an extended answer http://www.tabligh.com/answers.html Rahima i do not know where you got that from, but to the best of my knowledge, no the sheikh has not denounced this book after having compiled it. It must be stated first and foremost that the late Shaikhul Hadith Muhammad Zakariyya Kaandhlawi had memorized the Quran at an early age. He was a scholar of Hadith, that taught Bukhari and Muslim to his students for well over forty years. He devoted his life in the noble effort of propogating Allah's religion. Again, Allah knows best.

I tend to agree with J11 that this article is indeed interesting, to say the least. "Given this almost obsessive fear of the Africans that a state may emerge in their midst, one wonders why the Europeans and Americans are so much at ease with monopolised government". The above quote embodies an immeasureable amount of truth. Personally i would answer to the above by saying, that, the only thing that keeps Europeans and Americans at ease with monopolised govermemt is because of their materialistic tendencies, which i am proud to say most Africans do not possess. Perhaps it would be more correct to say that materialism has not been inculcated in Africans as much their western counterparts. Basically, westerners are willing to for-go their dignity and basic human rights in exchange for everlasting economic prosperity. Whereas Africans, more specifically Africans of Islamic faith, would rather keep their dignity and god-given rights intact, rather than choose the 'seemingly' more prosperous path(wests).

Salafi, Fazail A'mal is a book by the late Shaikul Hadith Maulana Muhammad Zakariyya Kaandhlawi (May Allah have mercy upon him), who strived his whole life seeking the pleasure of Allah. May Allah accept. Many prominent scholars of today have praised his work and some have even travelled to him seeking deeper understanding of deen. The books contents include: Stories of The Sahabah: -Steadfastness in face of hardships. -Fear of Allah. -Abstinence and self-denial of the Sahabah. -Devotion to Salaat. -Sympathy and self-sacrifice. -Pleasing the Prophet (sallAllahu alaihi wa salam). -The Women's Courage and spirit for Islam. -The Children's Devotion for Islam. --Virtues of The Holy Quran: --Virtues of Salaat: --Virtues of Dhikr: --Virtues of Tabligh: --There are ayats of the Quran concerning Tabligh. --Virtues of Ramadhan: --Muslim Degeneration and its remedy This book is read by countless muslims around the world, including Tablighis'. 'Tabligh' is the work done by Muslims to call others to Allah. It is the same work that was done by the prophets and messengers (May Allah's peace upon them and His blessings), to their people like Nuh, Lut, Ibrahim, Ismail, Ishaaq, Yaqub, Musa, Isa, Muhammed, etc. (May Allah's peace be upon them all.) Since Muhammed (May Allah's peace upon him and His blessings) is the final prophet and messenger, it becomes a duty on every muslim to invite and call people to Allah. This is what the work of Tabligh is all about. The views you hold about this book are not entirely new to me, i have heard them before. But what is interesting is that most of the critics of Fazail A'mal have an issue with the Tablighi Jamats rather than with the book itself. There are even some who argue that Tablighi Jamats are innovative and that their way of conducting dawah is a bid'ah. The founder of this work of Tabligh is Abu AlQasim (May Allah's peace and blessings be upon him), also known as Muhammed ibn Abdullah ibn Abdul Muttalib ibn Hashim, who is not the father of any man and the seal of the prophets. After receiving the messengership, Muhammed (May Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) conveyed the message of truth to His companions (called the Sahabah), who then brought the message to the rest of the world. It is this work that is, by the grace of Allah, alive and active today. It is by their efforts, May Allah be pleased with them and have mercy upon them, that we are Muslims. One other thing, if i may. I have noticed that you criticize more than you benefit in this forum. Anything that doesn't sound right to you is shirk, bid'ah etc. Surely a book such as Fazail A'mal which places so much emphasis on the Lifes of the Sahabah, their sacrifice's for deen, thirst for knowledge and true civility, is something we should be careful to crticize outright. May Allah guide us all to the straight path, The path of those on whom he hast bestowed his Grace. Allah knows best.

Hadhrat Umar (Radhiyallaho Anho) and the Fear of Allah. Umar (Radhiyallaho Anho) would often hold a straw in his hand and say, "I wish I were a straw like this." Sometimes he would say, "I wish my mother had not given birth to me." Once he was busy with some important work when a person came to him and, complaining about some petty grievance, requested for its redress. Hadhrat Umar (Radhiyallaho Anho) laid a lash across his shoulders, saying, "When I sit for that purpose, you do not come to me but when I am engaged in other important work you come with your grievances to interrupt me." The person walked away. But Hadhrat Umar (Radhiyallaho Anho) sent for him and, handing his whip over to him, said, "You now lash me to even the matter." He said, "I forgive you for the sake of Allah." Hadhrat Umar (Radhiyallaho Anho) went home, prayed a Salaat of two rakaats in repentance and upbraided himself saying, "Oh, Umar! You were low but Allah elevated you. You were wandering astray but Allah guided you. You were base but Allah made you noble and gave you sovereignty over His people. Now one of them comes and asks you for redress of the wrong done to him, and you beat him? What answer have you to give before Allah?" He kept on chiding himself thus for a very long time. Once Hadhrat Umar (Radhiyallaho Anho) was going on his usual rounds towards Harrah (a suburb of Madinah) with his slave Aslam, when he saw a distant fire in the desert. He said, "There seems to be a camp. Perhaps, it is a caravan that could not enter the town due to night fall. Let's go and look after them and arrange for their protection during the night." When he reached there, he found a woman and some children. The children were crying. The woman had a pan of water over the fire. Hadhrat Umar (Radhiyallaho Anho) greeted her with salaam and, with her permission, went near her. Umar, "Why are these children crying?" The Woman, "Because they are hungry." Umar, "What is in the pan?" The Woman, "Only water to soothe the children, so that they may go to sleep in the belief that food is being prepared for them. Ah! Allah will judge between Umar (Radhiyallaho Anho) and me, on the Day of Judgment, for neglecting me in my distress." Umar (weeping), "May Allah have mercy on you! How can Umar know of your distress?" The Woman, "When he is our Amir, he must keep himself informed about us." Hadhrat Umar (Radhiyallaho Anho) returned to the town and straight away went to the Baitul Mal (House of Charity) to fill a sack with flour, dates, fat, and clothes, and also drew some money. When the sack was ready, he said to Aslam, "Now put this sack on my back, Aslam." Aslam, "No please, Amir-ul-Momineen! I shall carry this sack." Umar refused to listen to Aslam, even on his persistent requests to allow him to carry the sack, and remarked, "What! Will you carry my load on the Day of Judgment? I must carry this bag, for it is I who would be questioned (in the Hereafter) about this woman." Aslam most reluctantly placed the bag on Umar's (Radhiyallaho Anho) back, who carried it with a swift pace right to the woman's tent. Aslam followed at his heels. He put a little flour and some dates and fat in the pan and began to stir. He blew (with his mouth) into the fire to kindle it. Aslam says, "I saw the smoke passing through his thick beard." After some time, the pottage was ready. He himself served it to the family. When they had eaten to their fill, he made over to them the little that was left for their next meal. The children were very happy after their meal and began to play about merrily. The woman felt very grateful and remarked, "May Allah reward you for your kindness! In fact you deserve to take the place of Khalifah instead of Umar." Umar consoled her and said, "When you come to see the Khalifah, you will find me there." He sat for a while at a place close by and kept on watching the children. He then returned to Madinah. On his way back, he said to Aslam, "Do you know why I sat there, Aslam? I had seen them weeping in distress. I liked to see them laughing and happy for some time." It is said that Hadhrat Umar (Radhiyallaho Anho) while leading Fajr Salaat used to recite Surah Kahf, Taha and other such Surahs in his Salaat, and would weep so much that his crying could be heard way back to several rows. Once he was reciting Surah Yusuf in Fajr. When he came to the verse: "I only plead for my distress and anguish unto Allah," (XII: 86) He wept so much that he could not recite any further. In Tahajjud, he would sometimes fall to the ground and would get indisposed with excessive weeping. Such was the fear of Allah in Hadhrat Umar (Radhiyallaho Anho) whose name struck terror in the hearts of the mightiest monarchs of his time. Even today, the people are filled with awe when they read about him. Is there any person in power today who is prepared to show such kindness to the people in his charge?

An Extract from Fazail A'mal. Hadhrat Abu Bakr (Radhiyallaho Anho) and The Fear of Allah. According to our belief, Abu Bakr (Radhiyallaho Anho) is the most exalted person after the Prophets (may peace be on all of them). The Prophet (Sallallaho alaihe Wasallam) himself conveyed to him the glad tidings of his being the head of a group of persons in Paradise. The Prophet (Sallallaho alaihe Wasallam) once remarked, "Abu Bakr's name shall be called out from all the gates of Paradise, and he will be the first of my followers to enter it." With all these virtues and privileges, Abu Bakr (Radhiyallaho Anho) used to say, "I wish I were a tree that would be cut and done away with." Sometimes he would say, "I wish I were a blade of grass, whose life ended with the grazing by some beast." He also said, "I wish I were a hair on the body of a believer." Once he went to a garden, where he saw a bird singing. He sighed deeply and said, "Oh, bird! How lucky you are! You eat, you drink and fly under the shade of the trees, and you fear no reckoning of the Day of Judgment. I wish I were just like you." Hadhrat Rabiah Aslami (Radhiyallaho Anho) narrates: Once I had some argument with Abu Bakr (Radhiyallaho Anho), during which he uttered a word that I did not like. He realized it immediately and said to me, "Brother, please say that word back to me in retaliation." I refused to do so. He persisted, and even spoke of referring the matter to the Prophet (Sallallaho alaihe Wasallam), but I did not agree to utter that word. He got up and left me. A few people of my clan remarked, "Look! How strange! The person does wrong to you and, on the top of that, he threatens to complain to the Prophet (Sallallaho alaihe Wasallam)." I said, "Do you know who he is? He is Abu Bakr (Radhiyallaho Anho). To displease him is to displease the Prophet (Sallallahu alaihe Wasallam) and to displease the Prophet (Sallallaho alaihe Wasallam) is to displease Allah, and if Allah is displeased then who can save Rabiah from ruin?" I went to the Prophet (Sallallahu alaihe Wasallam) and narrated the whole story to him. He said, "You were quite right in refusing to utter that word. But you could have said this much in reply: 'Oh, Abu Bakr, (Radhiyallaho Anho) May Allah forgive you!' " Look at the fear of Allah in Hadhrat Abu Bakr (Radhiyallahu Anho)! He is so anxious to clear his accounts in this world that no sooner has a slightly unpleasant word been addressed by him to a person, then he regrets it and requests him to say that word back to him in retaliation. He is so particular in this that he threatens to have the retaliation done through the intervention of the Prophet (Sallallahu alaihe Wasallam). We are in the habit of saying offensive words to others, but we fear neither the retaliation nor the reckoning in the Hereafter.

In an age where grave injustice is widespread, and justice seldom occurs; except for the rich and powerful, i thought it would benefit us all, to look back at the the conduct of our beloved prophet(s.c.w) and his innate sense of justice. Prophet Muhammad (s.c.w) - JUSTICE Muhammad proved by his own example that no one could be more just and equitable than the Messenger of God. As head of the state of Medinah, he decided all cases on merit with justice and equity, irrespective of colour, creed, or race. Once a Quraish woman was found guilty of stealing. Some people wanted to save her from punishment in order to protect the honour of the family of the Quraish. They wanted to hush up the whole affair. They asked Asama bin Zaid, who was very dear to the Holy Prophet, to intercede on her behalf. He requested the Prophet to forgive her. The Holy Prophet very furiously said, "Bani Israil was ruined because of this. They applied law to the poor and forgave the rich." Once Abdullah ibn Sehl went to Khaibar for the division of dates. He was accompanied by his cousin Muheesah. While walking in the street, Abdullah was murdered by someone and his dead body thrown in the ditch. Muheesah complained to the Holy Prophet. He asked him, "Can you swear that he was killed by the Jews?" He replied that he had not seen with his own eyes. The Holy Prophet said that the Jews should be asked to take an oath. Muheesah said, "How can we trust their oath? They will take false oaths a hundred times." There was no one else living in Khaibar except the Jews and it was indisputably one of the Jews who had killed Abdullah. But as there was no eye-witness, the Holy Prophet did not ask anything of the Jews and paid one hundred camels as blood-money from the state treasury. It is narrated by Tariq Muharbi that God's Messenger was delivering a sermon in the Mosque of the Prophet (Masjid An-Nabi), when an Ansari, seeing them, stood up and said, "O Messenger of God! These people belong to the tribe of Banu Tha’lba. Their ancestor killed a member of our family. We appeal to you to get one of their men hanged in exchange for that." The Holy Prophet replied, "The revenge of the father cannot be taken on his son." The Prophet was so well-known for his justice that even the Jews, who were his deadly enemies, brought their suits to him and he decided cases in accordance with their law. He very strictly followed the Commandment of God: "If they come to you, either judge between them, or decline to interfere. If you decline, they cannot hurt you in the least. If you judge, judge in equity between them. For God loves those who judge in equity." [Qur'aan 5:45] Justice demands that it should be upheld in all circumstances, even if it goes against one's own self or one's family or relations. "O You who believe! Stand out firmly for justice, as witnesses to God, even as against yourselves, or your parents, or your kin, and whether it be against rich or poor." [Qur'aan 4:135] God's Messenger proved by his own example that no one could be more firm for justice than him, even if it was against his own interest or the interest of those who were near and dear to him. He decided every case brought to him by friend or foe with justice, without fear or favour. He favoured neither the rich nor the poor, but decided their case with equity and justice. He decided the cases even of his enemies with strict justice and fairness. His enemies brought their suits to him without any fear or hesitation for they knew that they would get justice only from him. The Holy Prophet did not distinguish between a friend and foe in matters of justice: "O You who believe! Stand out firmly for God as witnesses to justice, and let not the enmity of others incite you to act contrary to justice. Be always just, that is next to' piety. Be mindful of your duty to God." It is surely an act of merit to do justice among friends and in a favourable or neutral atmosphere, but real greatness lies in doing justice to people who are one's open enemies. The Holy Prophet, as head of the Muslim state of Medinah, always treated his enemies, including Jews and unbelievers, with justice and equity. Once the Holy Prophet was distributing the spoils of war among the people. There was a crowd of people round him, and a man came along and laid himself on him. The Holy Prophet had a thin stick in his hand, and he lightly struck him with it. By chance, the end of the stick struck his mouth, which was slightly scratched. The Holy Prophet asked him to take his revenge on him. He replied "O God's Messenger! I forgive you." "We have sent down to thee the book in truth, that thou mightest judge between people by that which Allah has shown thee; so be not an advocate for those who betray their trust"[Qur'aan 4:105] The Commentators explain this passage with reference to the case of Ta'ima ibn Ubairaq, who was nominally a Muslim but really a Hypocrite, and given to all sorts of wicked deeds. He was suspected of having stolen a set of armour, and when the trial was hot, he planted the stolen property into the house of a Jew, where it was found. The Jew denied the charge and accused Tai’ma, but the sympathies of the Muslim community were with Tai'ma on account of his nominal profession of Islam. The case was brought to the Prophet, who acquitted the Jew according to the strict principle of justice, as "guided by Allah." Attempts were made to prejudice him and deceive him into using his authority to favour Ta'ima. When Ta'ima realized that his punishment was imminent he fled and turned apostate. The general lesson is that the righteous man is faced with all sorts of subtle wil; the wicked will try to appeal to his highest sympathies and most honourable motives to deceive him and use him as an instrument for defeating justice. He should be careful and cautious, and seek the help of Allah for protection against deception and for firmness in dealing the strictest justice without fear or favour. To do otherwise is to betray a sacred trust.

i'm in

Truth Seeker, The editor of the London Daily, Al-Sharq Al-Awsat, Abd AL-Rahman Al-Rasheed wrote the following, I myself read it in 'The Australian', it is News Limited owned. Abd AL-Rahman Al-Rasheed accuses Arab intellectuals of rating the death of one palestinian at the hands of of an Israeli higher than that 1000 sudanese. "They are not the victims of Israeli or American aggression; therefore they are not an issue for concern," he wrote in condemnation the attitude of many Arabs towards the problem in Sudan. He further adds "As for Arab intellectuals who see nothing in the world but the Palestinian and Iraqi causes, and who consider any blood not spilled in conflicts with foreigners to be cheap and its spilling justifiable - they are accomplices to the crime." I tend to agree with the above comments. The people Kofi Annan and Colin Powell addressed were mostly women covered in their islamic clothing . Where was the Arab League, why didn't they interfere and call on Khartoum to act. Sudan is part of the Arab league is it not. We wouldn't have to be debating the motives of U.S. senators and their rhetoric towards Sudan, if the Arab League got their act together earlier and help save innocent Muslim women and children. It was ironic that most of the people that both Powell and Annan addressed were mostly women, where were their men, forced to flee by other people calling themselves Muslims! What is happening to the Fur of Sudan is similar to the Bantu people of our country. They are muslims just like us, testing to the creator, the majestic, the sustainer and provider of all, ALLAH (A'za Wa Jallah). Yet how did the Somali's treat the Bantus, we gave them derogatory terms such as 'Adoon', 'Jareer' and the list goes on. The Bantus are today being hoarded to outback U.S. towns and converted to Christianity. They are by far the biggest number of refugees given settlement status from East Africa. Why is this? Simply because they are the perfect kind for the Missionaries. They rightly have something to complain about and this gives the missionaries an opportunity to scold our religion and at the same time mislead as many as they can.

Detain Injustice, Not our Fathers By Muhammad Al-Shareef Article taken from Khutbah.com Dear brothers and sisters. My father, Helmy Alshareef, was imprisoned in Egypt (or detained, as they wish to call it) after Hajj this year. Subhan Allah, he’s 63 years old! In the airport, they said they would only question him for a few hours, which turned into days, which turned into weeks. For 20 days my father was denied a lawyer, denied communication with the Canadian consulate, and denied permission to tell his family where he was and what had happened to him. A rally joined to champion his plight. CAIR Canada was first to help; joining ranks was Amnesty International. The news media ran the story across Canada on Saturday. By Monday, a coalition of Muslims across the USA and abroad gathered together to bombard, with emails and phone calls, any who stood in the way of my father’s release. The negative, sensational stories began appearing quietly, but by early Tuesday, my father had been released. Those stories looked foolish and were overshadowed by the moment of joy. In the past 20 days, I have contemplated a great deal over the plight of the detainees. “Let my people go!” I would hum to myself. And then it dawned on me: “Let my people go!” was the call of Moosa, alayhis salam. For what reason? To facilitate the release of the detainees of that time: Banee Israa’eel. And then I was like, “What’s up with these Egyptians? Even from ancient times they have had a passion for detaining people!” And so I opened the Qur’an and began reading again and again how Moosa, alayhis salam, rescued the detainees, Banee Israa’eel, from Pharaoh. And in today’s Khutbah, in sha Allah, I would like to share my reflections with you. But before I begin, you are probably asking yourself, “Why does this concern me? My family has never had such trouble and I think it’s best if I just went home and closed my window shades.” The problem, dear brothers and sisters, is that the issue will not go away by us merely closing our window shades and canceling our membership to Islam. Like Bosnia and Chechnya before, they will knock down our doors and pull us out. We must define ourselves or else others will define us. We must stand up for our rights, together and unified, or else we collectively will have no rights. Even if we do not accept these challenges, people with evil intentions will impose them on us. After 9/11, our Muslim communities disassociated with anyone who was accused of the T word. We would defend, defend and support, until some dubious person accused that Muslim of the T word. Then, we abandoned those people as if they had just been diagnosed with the plague. And thus began the very ancient strategy of ‘divide and conquer’. Reflection One: Go to Fir’own! Allah ta’ala tells us in the Qur’an: [Go, both you and your brother, with My signs and do not slacken in My remembrance * Go, both of you, to Pharaoh. Indeed, he has transgressed.] Surah Taha, 20/42-43 Moosa, alayhis salam, after many trials (his salvation from the baby murders, his upbringing in the home of Pharaoh, his mother being the only one able to nurse him, the killing of the Egyptian man) Moosa had now found asylum in Madyan. He was married to a most righteous wife, his father in law was one of the most blessed in-laws one could have, and life had returned to normal. When he was told of his mission to save Banee Israa’eel, why didn’t Moosa, alayhis salam, just say, “Why do I have to go? It’s not my problem.” Why didn’t he say, “I should not be associated with them?” Why didn’t he say, “So long as I close my window shades, the evil of Pharaoh will go away”? All the gifts of Moosa, alayhis salam, were given to him by Allah and it was all a test. Allah was preparing Moosa, alayhis salam, for the return to champion the cause of Banee Israa’eel. As Allah ta’ala says in the verse right before this: [And I produced you for Myself!] Meaning, Allah had already selected Moosa, alayhis salam, and made him strong in body and character according to the requirements of the mission. And so I reflect: So many of us have been saved from the trials that are afflicting our brothers in this country and abroad. It is not acceptable for us to say, ‘it’s not my problem.’ No, with all our talents and with all our voices and with all our unity, we must stand up to champion the cause of anyone who is detained unjustly. Let Injustice be detained, not our Muslim brothers and fathers! Reflection Two: Placing trust in Allah Allah tells us how Moosa reacted when given the mission. He reacted by making dua for the tools he would need in order to fulfill this responsibility: [(Moses) said, “My Lord, expand (i.e. relax) for me my breast (with assurance) * And ease for me my task * And untie the knot from my tongue * So that they may understand my speech * And appoint for me a minister (i.e. assistant) from my family - * Haroon, my brother * Increase through him my strength * And let him share my task. And so I reflect: How often, at times of trial, do we forget to turn to Allah in sincere and constant dua. We remind each other of making dua—true—but in reality, how consistent are we in praying for justice and praying for the tools we need to be victorious? The more we focus in our dua, the more determined and focused we shall be in driving towards victory. Reflection Three: media distortion of the truth When Moosa, alayhis salam, made his plea to Pharaoh to release Banee Israa’eel, Pharaoh argued with him. He argued about the oneness of Allah and he argued about their forefathers. None of this moved Pharaoh and he laid bare his version of Moosa’s mission. [He (Pharaoh) said, “Oh Moosa, have you come to us to drive us out of our lands with your magic?] What? Is that what Moosa, alayhis salam, was there for? Notice that Moosa, alayhis salam, was not given a chance to counter the accusation before Pharaoh pronounced, [Then we will surely bring you magic like it, so make between us and you an appointment, which we will not fail to keep and neither will you, in a place assigned.] And so I reflect: In this war of words, it is not about lies – it is about half truths and the ‘spinning’ of the truth. Whoever makes the media their source of ultimate truth has indeed failed in their estimation. They have misled themselves long before others mislead them. Allah demands from us to seek out the truth and to question our sources. Prepare yourselves with third-party knowledge and ‘challenge’ the false interpretations. Reflection Four: The game of fear In the days of my fathers detainment, I was surprised to learn of so many cases of others whose families confided in me. ‘Don’t tell anyone,’ it would begin, ‘but such and such and such and such family member of ours were detained.’ Why have you not gone public? I would ask. Fear of angering those governments. Fear of community shame. Fear of public condemnation. Fear upon fear upon fear. In the story of Moosa, alayhis salam, I realized that it is OK to be afraid. It is something natural. Allah ta’ala told us that even Moosa, alayhis salam, was afraid: [And suddenly their ropes and staffs seemed to him from their magic that they were moving (like snakes * And he sensed within himself fear, did Moosa.] But Allah ta’ala taught Moosa, alayhis salam: [We (i.e. Allah) said, “Do not be afraid. Indeed it is you who are superior.”] And so I reflect: in this game of fear, we need not shun this emotion. Rather, we should respect it and channel the power that it gives us to a feeling of confidence—a confidence that it is we who have committed nothing wrong. It is we who have been treated unjustly. And if there is anyone who should feel fear, it is those who have transgressed the commandments of Allah. My brothers, do not be afraid. Part ii: Victory in the end will always be for the believers Dear brothers and sisters, when Allah ta’ala sent Moosa, alayhis salam, to Pharaoh, He reminded Moosa, alayhis salam, of all the ways he had protected him in the past. Just like Allah protected him in the past – do not be afraid – Allah has the power to protect you today and victory in the end will always be for the believers. Musa and his people were followed by Pharaoh and his henchmen. The latter’s intent was nothing less then the total slaying of the former. That day the sea parted, that day Banee Israa’eel was saved, and that day Pharaoh was drowned – a lesson for every believer until the day of resurrection. Allah’s Messenger, sal Allahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, said, “This is a mighty day (the 10th of Muharram). It is the day when Allah saved Moosa and his people and drowned Pharaoh and his people. Moosa fasted this day in thankfulness to his Lord, and so we too shall fast it.”And in another narration, Rasul Allah, sal Allahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, said, “(fasting this day) expiates (the sins) of the past year.” Normally, when people look at the horrific acts of Pharaoh, they would only naturally want to reply with the strongest of words. As common knowledge goes, only toughness can be met with toughness. But this is not the wisdom Allah sent Moosa with: [Go, both of you, to Pharaoh, indeed he has transgressed * And speak to him with gentle speech. Perhaps he may be reminded or fear (Allah).] This is a characteristic that the believer should never be without – the characteristic of gentleness of speech. When egos blind the tyrants from the truth, only gentleness will help them see through the fog and guide them aright. Let us not forget that the magicians, who in the morning were the most wicked of people, were on their way to highest level of paradise by nightfall. And their blessedness was recorded in the Qur’an to be recited till the day of resurrection. If Pharaoh’s magicians repented and became who they became, let us not lose hope in guiding people to Allah. Ibn Abbas, radi Allahu ‘anhuma, narrates that Rasul Allah, sal Allahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, said, “Jibreel said to me: ‘O Muhammad, if only you could see me on that day pouring dirt into the mouth of Pharaoh, (for fear that after all he did, he would beseech the mercy of Allah) and that mercy would embrace him.’” And as Rasul Allah, sal Allahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, said, “Whoever was denied gentleness (with others), was denied all goodness.” [Muslim] In those times of Fitnah, Moosa, alayhis salam, taught his people how to remain firm. And today, as we live through these times of Fitnah, let us recall his teachings: One: We will overcome with patience and seeking aid from Allah. [said Moosa to his people, “Seek help though Allah and be patient. Indeed, the earth belongs to Allah, He causes to inherit it whom He wills of His servants. And the outcome shall always be for the righteous.] A’raaf 7/128 Two: We will overcome with faith in Allah, placing our firm trust in Allah [And Moosa said, “O my people, if you have believed in Allah, then rely upon Him, if you are indeed Muslims.] Younus 10/84 Three: We will overcome through our supplications to Allah. [so they said, “Upon Allah do we rely. Our Lord, make us not (objects of) trial for the wrongdoing people * And save us by Your mercy from the disbelieving people.”] Younus 85/86 Allah ta’ala recorded all of this in the Qur’an and this Monday (the 10th of Muharram) we shall fast to remind us of the lesson – not just the ritual – of standing firm in the face of injustice.

I suppose people can argue that Aisha is a common name, even at the time of this particular artist. But the fact that there was a correlation made between the painting and the prophets wife is what troubles me. Whether this correlation was made by the artist himself at the time of the painting or made afterwards is what we have no knowledge of. One thing is for sure though, the correlation was not made in error, whoever did so, must have had some knowledge of Islam and the Muslims. Therefore, one can also assume that they must have had some knowledge of the sensitivities associated with it.

Amaanimeenah The message you're getting is due to the fact that SisSade accidentally added a dot at the end of the link when she provided it, which brings up the subsequent message. The work is still there, try the link again http://www.tate.org.uk/servlet/ViewWork?cgroupid=999999961&workid=12229

"The west could put current Arab and other tyrannies on notice that their only way back into the global community is not simply to arrest al-Qaida suspects, but to grant basic freedoms to their own people". This would be unacceptable for Washington, as was the case in Algeria. Granting freedoms to the people entails that they also choose that which they are governed by. If this choice turns out to be the Shariah, then all hell will break loose in Washington. Most Western commentators such as the author of this article are too naive to realise this, perhaps with the sole exception of Samuel Huntington. In fact the whole article is seething with extravagance of metaphors, with their accompanying naive bombast. However, i was suprised by these figures: "All 22 Arab states combined, oozing as they are with natural resources and the black gold that is oil, still have a GDP smaller than Spain's and less than half that of California. Education is in a dire state: the whole Arab world translates around 300 books annually, one fifth the number translated by Greece alone. Rates of internet connection, the Arab scholars found, were less than those in sub-Saharan Africa".

"Turkey has found what nations of every culture and every region have found: If justice is the goal, then democracy is the answer". What kind of democracy are we talking about Uncle Sam. "In some parts of the world, especially in the Middle East, there is a wariness toward democracy, often based on misunderstanding. Some people in Muslim cultures identify democracy with the worst of Western popular culture, and want no part of it. And I assure them, when I speak about the blessings of liberty, coarse videos and crash -- crass commercialism are not what I have in mind" Whether he has "coarse videos and crash -- crass commercialism" in mind or not, these have been the un-mistakable by-products of western democracy. Once again sorry dude, but actions speak louder than deceiving words. The words of Allah(A'za Wa Jallah) are indeed most true: "...Each time they kindle the fire of war, Allah extinguishes it. They rush about the earth corrupting it. Allah does not love corrupters. (Al-Qur'an 5:64) For the true definition of Justice lets ponder over the following Ayats of the Qur'an Kareem. You who believe! Be upholders of justice, bearing witness for Allah alone, even against yourselves or your parents and relatives. Whether they are rich or poor, Allah is well able to look after them. Do not follow your own desires and deviate from the truth. If you twist or turn away, Allah is aware of what you do. (Al-Qur'an 4:135) Allah commands justice and doing good and giving to relatives. And He forbids indecency and doing wrong and tyranny. He warns you so that hopefully you will pay heed. (Al-Qur'an 16:90)

Laa Hawla Wa Laa Quwata Ilaa Billah SiSade i hope they've at least taken it off from physical view in the actual gallery. The above letter and the campaign at the time seemed to have been pretty strong, so perhaps they did take it away from public view. May Allah make it so. Perhaps you guys in london can verify this. (please go to http://www.tate.org.uk/britain/information.htm for visiting info). I believe there is another one at Albert Dock, Liverbool and also at St Ives, Cornwall. This is what our beloved prophet(pbuh) had to say about the mother of the believers Ai'sha (ra): Abu Musa reported Allah's Messenger as saying, "A'isha's superiority over other women is like the superiority of tharid (a food) over other foods." (Bukhari and Muslim). Once, when 'Umar Ibn Al-As returned from Gazwa That As-Salasal, he asked Allah's Messenger, "Who do you love most in this world?" He said, "A'isha." He said, "O Allah's Messenger, the question is about men." He said, "A'isha's father." Indeed if we are believers, we should love, honour and respect that which our beloved prophet (pbuh) did and hate that which he did.

Salamullahi ‘Alaykum Brothers and sisters i do not reside in the U.K. but please read the following article. It was posted on a forum that i administered last year, i never again heard from the brother who posted this message, therefore i do not know if this matter was resolved or not. Can the brothers and sisters from Britian in this forum, find out what happened in regards to this case. Dear concerned brothers and sisters, Re: Painting of A’isha (ra) in Tate Britain. Are you aware?! It has come to our knowledge that Tate Britain in Millbank (London SW1)recently put up a painting of A’isha ®, the wife of the Prophet Muhammad ‘alayihi wa sallam and the daughter of Khalif Abu Bakr. A’isha is recorded to have narrated around 12,000 Traditions, of which 174 were accepted by Sahih Al-Bukhari and Sahih Al-Muslim. A painting of this great woman of Islam can be found hanging at a public gallery at the Tate Britain (section 15 of the Victorian Art Collection), painted by artist Valentino Cameron Prinsep (1838-1904). The painting is labelled as ‘Ayesha exhibited 1887 (oil of canvas)’ without any mention of her relationship with the Prophet. It was first displayed in 1887 at the Royal Academy in 1887, purchased of by president and council of the Royal Academy of Arts. What is our objection to this painting as Muslims and what we ought to do? When volunteers from the East London Mosque and Women’s Relief confronted the Tate management expressing their objections and disgust at the painting, the official response was that: a) the painting and others of the Prophet and his family members are displayed in Iran; b) that there has not been much objection from the British Muslim community to warrant its removal; and c) that the Tate was merely to trying to exhibit art from the Islamic civilisations. Our objections: 1. The vast majority of Muslims in Britain and abroad do not approve of paintings or sculptures generally on Islamic grounds, especially members of the Prophet’s family. 2. The painting, albeit in good faith, is insensitive and can enrage British Muslims. We must not forget the Satanic verses which inflamed muslim feelings world-wide. 3. Whilst we don’t want to enter into Shi’i-Sunni debate which will only serve to weaken our case, it needs to be noted that 90% of British Muslims are Sunna and that even prominent Shi’i scholars object to paintings and sculptures of life form. According to Ayatullah Al-Uzma Al-Sayyid Ali Al-Husayni Al-Seestani, he said ‘it is not permissible’ to make a statue in the shape of a human being or an animal or similar things relating to corporal objects of creation that possess souls. 4. If Tate Britain sincerely wishes to promote art from the Muslim world and promote better understanding between faiths and communities, it should do so in consultation with the representatives from the Muslim community in Britain, such as the MCB. What you should do? Please call, fax, email or visit the Tate Britain to politely register your objection to the painting of A’isha ®. When we last spoke to the managers (Fri 17 2003) of the Tate, they said they had only received about four complaints. If more complaints are filled the managers will be obliged to remove the painting. Speak to Roger Miller (Visitor Services’ Training Manager) or Steven Deucher (Director of the gallery). Tel. 020 7887 8725 Fax. 020 7887 8788 www.tate.org.uk Tube: Pimlico; Railway: Vauxhall; Bus: 88, 77A, C10. Brothers and Sisters, we must not forget our duty and reverence for the Prophet and his family. Allah, the Exalted reminds us: "And whosoever honours the Symbols of Allah, then it is truly from the piety of the heart.'' (22:32) Let us also take heed from Yazid bin Haiyan who reported: I went along with Husain bin Sabrah and `Amr bin Muslim to Zaid bin Arqam and as we sat by his side, Husain said to him, "Zaid, you acquired great merits, you saw the Messenger of Allah, listened to him talking, fought by his side in (different) battles, and offered Salat (prayer) behind him. Zaid, you have indeed earned great merits. Could you narrate to us what you heard from the Messenger of Allah?'' …Zaid then said, "One day Messenger of Allah (PBUH) stood up to deliver a Khutbah at a watering place known as Khum between Makkah and Al-Madinah. He praised Allah, and said, `Amma Ba`d. O people, I am a human being. I am about to receive a messenger (the angel of death) from my Lord and I will respond to Allah's Call, but I am leaving with you two weighty things: the first is the Book of Allah, in which there is right guidance and light, so hold fast to the Book of Allah and adhere to it.' …He exhorted (us to hold fast) to the Book of Allah and then said, `The second is the members of my household, I remind you (to be kind) to the members of my family. I remind you (to be kind) to the members of my family. [Muslim]. The least we can do to show our bond of affection and reverence for the Prophet’s family is to register our complaint from the comfort of our homes and offices. Please tell others. Wa billahi Taufiq. Wassalam

Assalamu Alaikum, Brothers and sisters check out the islamic flashes at islamway (http://english.islamway.com/bindex.php?section=flashmain). But in particular this one below. Just follow the link please. http://english.islamway.com/flashpage.php?id=18&cat=2&file_name=last&width=550&hight=400

Seven of Nine, Jazakallah Khayr for sharing that with us. Sister Ameenah, the second poem is meant for the weaker ones in iman, of whom i count myself amongst. Allah's wisdom is something beyond the realms of human capability, we cannot even start to comprehend it. That is why most of us get dissapointed when things don't turn out the way we plan them. Oftentimes we don't perceive the fortunate lessons that these seemingly unfortunate incidents carry for us, if only we had the wisdom to see it as such. What we fail to realise is that life is full of trials and tribulations, all of which, when thought of deeply are good for us, in one way or the other. I narrate a short story of a business man. His job required him to travel much to finalise business transactions with overseas clients. He was running late one day to catch a flight, on his way to sign a very important contract worth a few million dollars. As he was driving from his house to the airport, with the traffic jam increasing infront of him, he soon realised that he was never going to reach this flight in time. His worst fears came true and he never managed to catch the flight. At this point in time, he began to feel totally distraught and began to bewail over his situation, knowing that his has just lost all that money. In his own words, he recalls saying "I must be the unluckiest man alive". On his way back from the airport, having missed his important flight, he turns on the radio and hears the speaker, reading out some breaking news. The news that the flight he just missed has crashed, with no survivors. Guess what his thoughts were now, "I'm the luckiest man alive!". Contrary to the bleak image he had a few minutes ago. We should always have patience and approach life with the knowledge that our lifes' are in the hands of the creator of all. No harm can come its way unless he ordains for it, nor can any good reach us without his blessings and permission. Our first reaction when things go wrong, should be to turn to Allah and seek the wisdom to enable us to fully comprehend and understand the situation we find ourselves in. We should not become those Allah describes in the Quran "If We let man taste mercy from Us, and then take it away from him, he is despairing, ungrateful." (11:9) Again "When We let a man taste mercy from Us he exults in it. But if something bad strikes him for what he has done he is ungrateful". (42:48) May Allah make us of those who fulfill the following command of Allah(A'za Wa Jallah). "Remember Me-I will remember you. Give thanks to Me and do not be ungrateful". (2:152)

Sister Ameenah, it sure is amazing. I quote the words of an indian brother, on the state of the muslims today "Today the light rises in the West, and returns to slumber in the West. The East has shunned light, and accepted the West's darkness". Rather our darkness has a direct attribution to the fact that we have failed to act upon the quran. We have resorted to seeking solutions from the very same source, that brought us the difficulties we are seeking solutions to.

I asked for Strength......... And God gave me Difficulties to make me strong. I asked for Wisdom........ And God gave me Problems to solve. I asked for Prosperity......... And God gave me Brain and Brawn to work. I asked for Courage......... And God gave me Danger to overcome. I asked for Love......... And God gave me Troubled people to help. I asked for Favours......... And God gave me Opportunities. I received nothing I wanted I received everything I needed My Prayer has been answered

Assalamu Alaikum, This is a poem i found at (http://www.jannah.org/articles/poems.html#19). May Allah give us the wisdom to comprehend the treasures in the Quran and help us all to act on them. LAMENT OF THE QURAN As an ornament do they adorn me, Yet they keep me and sometimes kiss me. In their celebrations they recite me, In disputes they swear by me, On shelves do they securely keep me Till another celebration or dispute, When they need me. Yes, they read me and memorize me, Yet only an ornament am I.. My message lies neglected, My treasure untouched, The field lies bare, where blossomed once true glory. Wrong is the treatment I receive So much to give I, but none is there to perceive.

Jazakallah Khayr, it is beautiful. May Allah reward you for you're efforts.

Assalamu Alaikum, Brothers and sisters, this is an article i found on the website (harunyahya.com), of the renowned islamic scholar Harun Yahya. This article is an extract from one of his books, entitled 'Devoted To Allah'. I've listed some of his works at the end of this thread. For those of you, who haven't heard of him yet, i urge you to visit his website and check some of his work out. Knowing One's Soul An important piece of information the Qur'an gives us about man concerns his "soul" (an-nafs). The "soul," as commonly used in the Qur'an, means "ego" or "one's personality." In the Qur'an, Allah explains the two aspects of soul: the one inspiring evil and wicked deeds, and the other, guarding against every inculcation of evil. The Qur'an explains this in Surat ash-Shams: By the Soul, and the proportion and order given to it; and its enlightenment as to its wrong and its right; truly, he succeeds that purifies it, and he fails that corrupts it! (Surat ash-Shams: 7-10) As is evident from the above verses, evil exists in every man's soul. However, he who purifies his soul will attain salvation. Believers do not surrender their selves to the evil in their soul; they simply avoid it with the guidance of Allah's inspiration. As the Prophet Yusuf (as) said: "Not that I am free from sin: man's soul is prone to evil-except his to whom my Lord has shown mercy…" (Surah Yusuf: 53), provides the right manner of thinking for a believer. Since the soul "is prone to evil," a believer must always remain vigilant about his soul. As the Prophet Muhammad (saas) also said, "the greatest struggle is the struggle against one's self (nafs)." The soul unceasingly tempts a person and never earns him Allah's approval. As it does all these things it tries to present alluring alternatives. A believer, however, thanks to his fear of Allah, is not deceived by this "misleading" attribute of the soul. He always turns towards what is right to lead a life in compliance with Allah's Will. Such is the attitude of a wise person as opposed to a foolish one, as the Prophet (saas) said: A wise person is one who keeps a watch over his bodily desires and passions, and checks himself from that which is harmful and strives for that which will benefit him after death; and a foolish person is one who subordinates himself to his cravings and desires and expects from Allah the fulfilment of his futile desires. (Tirmidhi) His works include; The New Masonic Order, The 'Secret Hand' in Bosnia, Behind the Scenes of Terrorism, Israel's Kurdish Card, A National Strategy for Turkey, Solution: The Morals of the Qur'an, The Winter of Islam and Its Expected Spring, Communism in Ambush, The Bloody Ideology of Darwinism: Fascism, Darwin's Antagonism Against the Turks, The Disasters Darwinism Brought to Humanity, The Evolution Deceit, Articles 1-2-3, A Weapon of Satan: Romanticism , Truths 1-2, The Western World Turns to God, Perished Nations, The Prophet Moses, The Prophet Joseph, The Golden Age, Allah's Artistry in Colour, Glory is Everywhere, The Truth of the Life of This World........and many, many more. His works are too many to enumerate.

What do you all think about the peace process currently underway in Kenya. Can we expect anything more than the usual quarelling? The childish behaviour of these rotten human beings(warlords), has led to some Somali analysts such as Mr Ken Menkhaus, making derogatory yet justified comments, saying, “Is the state so hollowed out it is not worth fighting for any more?” he continues, “It’s puzzling. One explanation is that there is a lack of seriousness.” Even though I don’t agree with Mr Menkhaus’ comments that the state is not worth fighting for anymore, for indeed it is, I unequivocally agree with him to the latter, it is not only puzzling but it sheds a bad light on the rest of us, to allow such incompetent leaders to continue to represent our great nation. There are some reports that the disparate warlords signed the current agreement(back in March) due to pressure from the European Union, with threats that whoever resisted would be brought in front of the International Criminal Court (ICC), for their respective human rights abuses. Some other reports state that the Kenyan Foreign Minister Mr. Kalonzo Musyoka imposed a flight ban on all the warlords barring them from leaving the country, until an agreement was reached effectively compelling them to sign the agreement instead of doing it out of their own free will and the need to create peace in their shattered homeland. So all this leaves us with the question, was this agreement signed by leaders whose wish was genuine peace for their country? Or it is simply a case of jumping before you’re pushed, fearing for their own personal safety, were the European Union delegation carry out their threats of bringing criminal suits against those resisting peace, to the attention of the ICC. Whatever the intention of the warlords, it should not be up to the European Union nor the Americans or the Secretary General for that matter, but it is we, the Somali masses, who must hold the warlords accountable for their actions. Our history with colonialism, followed by misrule and neo-colonialism, must have taught us, if anything, that we should not place our faith in the genuineness of goodness originating in areas of the globe with a history of imperialist domination, and whose only aim is to continue that trend, albeit in a more disguised form. Over a decade of unfulfilled promises from the warlords must come to and end. Our so called ‘leaders’ (warlords), make no effort to lay the foundations of the homes they keep imagining for their people, but oftentimes they chant about standing on the rooftops of homes lacking base support . The very phrasing of their speeches and writings gives the impression that they have actually attained their objectives. We must see to it that, those who represent us be of the right caliber both in their true intentions for a united peaceful country, minus tribalistic leanings, and someone who has the right credentials, able to do the best for his country, both nationally and internationally, in this world of competition. When one possibility ends, another begins. When the sun sets, it’s the moon that takes its place and comes to give light to the world. So, there is hope for our country. However, by grasping fresh opportunities and utilizing them can one rise again. All one has to do is go about one’s task in an intelligent manner and never give up trying. When matter perishes, it becomes energy, when darkness comes, a new light emerges from its depths, when one building falls, it leaves a place for another construction. We just have to keep in mind that every dark cloud has a silver lining. I would love to hear you're thoughts on this issue, so lets hear them.

Brother Khayr, the contents of my reply to this topic does not imply the following summary of you're reply. "In other words, Islam deserves credit for giving birth to and supporting 'Secular' British Common Law". Rather what i meant to say, is that the British common Law, especially in the field of International Law and Human rights was introducted by Grotuis who studied in Algeria at the time, therefore having strong links to Islamic law, even though he himself and those western law academics do not acknowledge this due to the prejudice of the time of the crusades, which is still with us today. My point is simply this, that no human being can derive laws, especially when it has something to do with human rights, therefore it was imperative for them to add divinely revealed laws. The fact that christianity doesn't embody clear divinely revealed laws that can create order and harmony in society, is a well known fact, so they had no choice but to use islamic law which was clear, detailed and applicable to achieve order and reduce anarchy and choas. I will not argue with you, on the fact that they haven't accepted nor use the principles of Islamic criminal law. It would be naive for us to think that they would, for they do not ascribe to the constitution of Islam which is, (Laa Illaha Ilalah Muhamadu Rasullullah (s.c.w)). One other think you alluded to in you're reply is 'Freedom and Liberty'. These are not as you say alien or contrary to Islamic teaching, Islam introduced these teachings. What they have done is taken it too far, but the concept itself is one which is essentail and its credit lies not on western thought but rather in ISLAM. If i have something out, do reply and let me know, this is something that needs to be explained and understood. The concepts of freedom and democarcy are not alien to Islam, although the west likes to project that image. Islam is the best form of democracy.

It seems as if most of you have simply ignored the contents of my reply, except for two of the sisters. Please don't misunderstand my point, it being, that it is not Haram as long as you're intelligent about you're conduct. As Malikah has pointed out, you might never see the inside of a courtroom, but rather act in an advisory role, as a Barrister. Barristers simply advice straight practicing lawyers about the sort of codes that apply in particular cases, this requires you to specialise in a particular area. It seems to me that most of you are simply not interested in pursuing law as a career, if that is the case then stop being so judgemental, it may discourage another brother or sister who may have sincere ambitions of seriously pursuing this field of study.