The Myth of Quranic Preservation

By Arshad Alam, New Age Islam 30 November 2021 It Is Intriguing Why Early Muslims Never Thought Of Compiling The Quran Into A Single Book Main Points: 1. Muslims believe that the Quran is the very word of God and hence cannot be changed for all eternity 2. Muslim tradition itself records that some verses, like the verse of Rajm, were not included in the Quran 3. In early Islamic history, we do not see any systematic attempt to preserve and compile the Quran. 4. Was Quran really that important in the eyes of the early believers? ----- The Quran holds a special place amongst all religious texts. While Judaism and Christianity believe their holy texts to be inspired by the Almighty, Muslims believe that the Quran is the very word of God. They further believe that not even a word of the holy text has been modified or changed through centuries. They argue that God has promised that He will protect his book and hence alteration in the text is understood as an impossibility. Due to this and blind adherence to their own version of ‘history’, many Muslims find themselves living in two separate worlds. In the world of Quranic mythology, they continue to believe that the earth is flat and that the sun, stars and planets revolve around the earth, while they learn something fundamentally different in their schools. Similarly, they keep believing in creationism while the evidence that they learn in their science classes points towards evolutionism. There are Muslims who would go to ridiculous lengths just to prove that every assertion of the Quran is backed by the science. But most Muslims keep living in these two separate worlds, unable to resolve the contradiction between the two. Since the belief is that Quran is the literal word of God, they cannot question any assertion of this text as it can only be done by painfully compromising one’s religious faith which not every Muslim is willing to do. Such a dichotomous worldview can only mean that fine minds would suspend their natural inquisitiveness when it comes to matters which have the potential of questioning some of the postulates in the Quran. No wonder, Muslim countries have been laggards when it comes to scientific research. Debates within these pages have argued that in terms of language, scientific claims and historical assertions, the Quran cannot be said to be an extraordinary text. But even at a more basic level, if we simply look at the story of Quranic compilation, then also it becomes difficult to believe that the text is free from human mediation. It is too much of a flight of fancy to argue that the revelation (Wahy) that got engrafted on the heart of the Prophet is the same as what is today understood as the Quran. But more importantly, it needs to be asked why the Prophet himself never gave much importance to the compilation of the Quran. The Muslim story is that whenever a revelation occurred, there were scribes (khatib) around the Prophet who would write it down. Some traditions also tell us that the Prophet himself at times corrected what was written on parchments and animal bones. But the Prophet never felt the need to compile the revelations in a single book. According to Muslim claim, Muhammad was the last of the Prophets and was sent as a guide to all mankind, not just Muslims. The Quran is similarly claimed to be the book of eternal guidance, which will continue to light up the path of truth till the end of days. So, it is rather intriguing, giving the central importance of the Quran in disseminating Islam, that it was never compiled during the Prophet’s lifetime. Such an important text like the Quran should have been written down with utmost care. Rather what we find within the tradition is that it was handled rather in a cavalier fashion. Otherwise, it does not make sense why it would be written down on animal bones and leaves, some of which were even eaten up by animals. If the Quran was really upheld as the world of God, then the Prophet’s most important mission should have been its safe transmission to the next generation. He could have done so in one of the many collective functions which he presided over such as during the last Hajj. But Islamic traditions do not record anything like this ever happening or even the Prophet hinting at it. Some Sunni traditions tell us that the Quran was compiled during the time of the first caliph, Abu Bakr while others tell us that it was done during the reign of the third caliph Usman. The Shia hold that it was Ali who had a complete copy of the Quran which he had compiled within six months of the death of the Prophet. Why is it that there is no unanimity amongst Muslims as to when their most important text was compiled especially given the fact that that all agree that Islam is impossible without the Quran. Does it tell us something about the importance attached to this book during the early years of Islam? Whether it compiled by Abu Bakr, Usman or Ali, why is that we do not have any extant copy of the Quran attributed to these caliphs? After all, Islam, as they say, was born in the full light of history. We are not talking about a text at the dawn of civilization but that which came into worldly existence in the 7th century. Are we to believe that the Quran had no special importance to early Muslims? If not, then how should we reconcile the fact no copies of the early texts were preserved by Muslims? What we get scattered through different museums are some fragments and that too from a later period. The Muslim tradition also tells us that when Usman compiled the Quran, he ordered the destruction of all other existing copies scattered throughout the fledgling empire. What was the need to do so? There were revolts at some places as their codices did not become part of the official Quran. The Shia still complain that Ali’s Quran was not taken into consideration. If Muslims believe that only Usman possessed the correct version of the Quran, then what about those early Muslims who were revolting against such a compilation? Is there any way to ascertain that Usman’s compilation did not omit any of the verse that were previously considered part of the Quran? Certainly not. We know that the verse of Rajm did not become part of this Quran. Does this mean that ultimately the consensus on Usman’s Quran was more a matter of politics rather than faith? Muslims might have been wise to give their allegiance to a single official Quran so that dissensions within the community can be minimized. But then, this takes away their claim that the Quran is the very word of God as recorded on the very heart of Muhammad. ----- Arshad Alam is a columnist with NewAgeIslam.com URL: https://www.newageislam.com/ijtihad-rethinking-islam/myth-quranic-preservation/d/125871 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism

Islamic Countries Have Done Little to Eliminate Violence against Women despite Quran's Clear Commands

Honour Killing, Rape, Torture And Exploitation Of Women Are Rampant In Muslim Societies Main Points: 1. Islam ended the practice of killing the girl child at birth or soon after, i.e., female infanticide. 2. Islam is very particular about treatment of girl children and orphans. 3. Islam discouraged slavery but women are still treated like slaves in Muslim societies. 4. Mukhtaran Mai of Pakistan and Sharbat Gula of Afghanistan are living examples of the plight of women in Muslim societies. 5. Turkey withdrew from Istanbul Convention this year causing a setback to women’s rights. ----- New Age Islam Staff Writer 30 November 2021 (File Photo) ------- On the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against women on 25th November, huge protests were held in many European and African cities like Mexico, Madrid, Paris, London and Barcelona. Protests were also held in countries like Turkey, Uruguay, Chille, Venezuela, Bolivia and Guatemala. Thousands of people protested against violence against women. Ironically, most of the protests were held in western countries that boast of giving women freedom, legal and social protection and equal rights. According to reports, at least ten women are killed in Mexico every day. The placards of protestors said, “They don’t die, they are killed.” According to a regional commission in Latin America, at least 4091 women died of violence against them in 2020. There were no such reports of protests in Muslim countries on that day except in Turkey. The reason is that In Muslim countries, violence against women is seen as normal. In Muslim societies, violence against women is committed in the name of protecting the honour of the family. Honour killing is not only practiced in Pakistan but also in the Arab and African Muslim societies as well. Other forms of violence against women are rape, dowry torture, sexual exploitation etc. The protests held over the Western world are a grim reminder of the fact that women are not safe even in the most educated and civilized society. Though women in the European countries enjoy greater freedom, they are not totally free of violence. At least, in western countries, people came out in protest against violence against women. In Muslim countries, the day passed off as usual because violence against women is not seen as a serious problem here. Mukhtaran Mai and other women of Pakistan are living examples of suppression of women’s rights in a feudal society. Sharbat Gula of Afghanistan is another reminder of the plight of women in the Muslim society. During the civil war in the aftermath of the emergence of the ISIS in Syria and Iraq, Muslim women were the most affected by violence. They were killed, raped, abducted, enslaved and sold like commodities. In the government under the Taliban, women in Afghanistan have become prisoners who cannot enjoy social freedom, cannot go out to work or study or to participate in sports. A woman was shot in cold blood by Taliban in Afghanistan for not wearing veil. (File Photo) ----- Violence against women was discouraged by Islam in an organized manner. The Quran prohibited killing the girl child and discouraged slavery and developed a social mechanism for the rehabilitation of slave women and men and their assimilation in the mainstream of the society. The Quran also had the provision that if a women feared violence from her husband she could enter into some peace agreement. The Quran also said that the husband and wife were the clothing of each other. This suggested to the equality granted by the Quran to women in family matters. But the Muslim society did not work towards the emancipation of women in an organized manner. Women still face torture, exploitation and violence in many Muslim countries. Since the Islamic countries did not make outstanding contribution towards the emancipation of women, the modern world bodies like the UN had to take steps in that direction. On the 25th November the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution for the End of Violence against women. The day was chosen because on that day in 1960, Mirabai sisters were brutally killed by the Dominican dictator Rafael Trujillo for having fought for their rights. (File Photo) ------ This year Pan-American Health Organisation (PAHO) has called for a 16 day activism against violence aginst women and has advocated elimination of violence in every sector of life. Statistics show that the incidents of violence have grown during the pandemic as people went through economic stress. This led to the rise in the cases of domestic violence. Unfortunately, Turkey withdrew from the historic Istanbul Convention that was signed in Istanbul in May 2011. The aim of the Convention was to end the violence against women. But in March 2021, Turkey withdrew from the convention under pressure from the religious section that supported honour killing. Turkey’s withdrawal caused a setback to the women’s emancipation and was criticized by the opposition parties. (File Photo) ----- Though Islam has emphasized a society free of violence and exploitation of women, advocated equal rights for women in the field of education, economics, science and bureaucracy, Islamic society still deprives women of their fare share of society and support overtly or covertly practices that lead to violence and suppression of their rights granted by the Quran and Hadith. URL: https://www.newageislam.com/islam-women-feminism/islamic-violence-women-quran/d/125870 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism

Has Religion Lost Its Relevance In The Modern Society?

‘Religions of Peace’ Have Been the Cause of Bloodiest Massacres on Earth Main Points: 1. 20TH century has witnessed some of the most brutal massacres in the name of God. 2. Srebrenica massacre was perpetrated in 1992. 3. Rwanda genocide was perpetrated in 1994. 4. Genocide of Muslims by Muslims happened in Bangladesh in 1971 in the name of religion. 5. Muslims of Myanmar were massacred by Buddhists in 2017. ---- By New Age Islam Staff Writer 30 November 2021 Religion has been the main guiding force for man since the beginning of the human life on earth. The concept of God provides man with a spiritual source of survival and a purpose of life. In the primitive age, man was surrounded by a hostile nature without any power to fight it. Therefore, Man depended on an invisible force which would provide support and protection from the hostile nature. Gradually, human society developed scientifically and intellectually and became more and more confident of their survival due to newer tools and technology to protect them from the hostile forces like nature and wid animals, natural calamities and diseases. However, the concept of God remained important for Man for spiritual purposes. He found someone more powerful than his scientific and technological devices as most of the times, his scientific and technological tools and devices could not tame nature or calamities. This strengthened his belief in the existence of an invisible power that governed the universe and their lives and affairs. Prophets and seers contributed to the strength of belief in the concept of God. Therefore, as times passed and science and technology progressed, the importance of religion grew because religion was seen as a social and political discipline. Religion filled the spiritual vaccum created by the material and scientific development. However, since no two men agree on an issue, they also differed on which religious course was better for them. This led to the different religious paths and ideologies. And the followers of each religion or religious ideology vouched for the truth of their own religious ideology. This ultimately caused clash of faiths of clash of civilization. Though every religion claimed to be the religion of peace, the same religion became the cause of bloody strife, massacre and manslaughter. The pages of human history are filled with the details of massacres and bloodshed perpetrated by the followers of different religions. Not to go much farther back. If we see the history of massacres perpetrated in God’s name, we come across details of slaughter of human beings in different religions of the world. The 1994 massacre of Rwanda was the most heinous act committed in the name of God when the perpetrators said God was on their side. In this genocide, more than 500,000 Tutsi tribe people were massacred and the Catholic church were held responsible for the massacre. Another big genocide in the name of religion happened in the East Pakistan in 1971. Long ignored and deprived of political and economic rights, Muslims of East Pakistan declared independence from the West Pakistan, forming an independent nation called Bangladesh. Pakistan army invaded East Pakistan and massacred the people of East Pakistan. It is said that about 500,000 people were killed by their Muslim brethren. The massacre is one of the most brutal genocide in the human history. After the defeat of Pakistan army, genocide of Bihari or Urdu speaking Muslims happened in Bangladesh as revenge. Lakhs of Urdu speaking Muslims were massacred by Bengali speaking Muslims. Another lakhs of Urdu speaking Muslims are still living in Bangladesh as Pakistani refugees though they are Muslims. Another big genocide of Muslims happened in Myanmar where the Buddhists are in a majority. They feared that the Muslims may one day dominate them and face a threat to their religion Buddhism as they had destroyed Buddhism in India after the arrival of Muslims in the twelfth century. Therefore, they tried to make Muslims weak politically and economically. In the decades after 1960s, various steps were taken to marginalize Muslims in Myanmar and finally in 2017, the Myanmar army with the connivance of Buddhist monks massacred millions of Rohingya Muslims. It’s an irony that Buddhism forbids killing of any living being, leave human beings. But the followers of Buddhism took active part in the genocide of Muslims and thought that God was on their side. In 1992, the Srebrenica massacre was also committed on religious lines between Christians and Muslims. In this massacre, about one lakh Muslim women and boys were massacred and thousands of women were raped. Thousands of Muslims were expelled from the area. This massacre was another example of massacre driven by religious motives. Even decades after the massacre, Muslims and Christians have not taken any lesson and the hostilities between them continue on religious lines. In 2014, the Middle East saw another round of massacre on the basis of religion. A militant Islamist group unleashed a reign of terror in the name of establishing the rule of God in the region. They killed millions of Muslims, Christians and destroyed religious buildings and enslaved thousands according to their interpretation of religion of Islam. Millions of Muslims and Christians were displaced and had to take refuge in other countries. In India, religious affiliation played important role in communal riots between the majority Hindus and minority Muslims. The followers of both the religions Islam and Hinduism claim that their religion preaches peace. Still, driven by insecurity complex, nationalist groups clashed with each other killing thousands. During the last 70 years of independence India has witnessed hundreds of thousands of small and big communal riots in which millions of people have lost their lives. In Pakistan, after the independence, anti-Ahmadiyya riots took place in which thousands of Ahmadiyyas lost their lives. This was perpetrated by the followers of Islam though they claimed that their religion preached peace and respected the faith of others and that no being will carry the burden of others. Even today, members of the minority communities in Pakistan are attacked, kidnapped and killed by the majority community members in the name of religion or God. Sectarian violence among the followers have also tarnished the image of religion as a civilizing force. Sectarian violence among Jews, Christians and Muslims have been recorded in history and put a question mark on the relevance of religion in human society. Jews fought among themselves on sectarian lines. During the 3rd to 8th century, Christians killed each other on sectarian lines. This hostility continued till the 17th century. Muslims are divided in 72 sects and the followers of each sect consider themselves to be on th true path and declared all the others dwellers of hell and even worthy to be killed. This belief has caused many massacres and violence in the name of God. Muslims in India, Pakistan, Egypt, Afghanistan and all parts of the world where they live are divided on sectarian lines and often engage in violence. The emergence of militant and terrorist organizations only aggravated the situation. They carry out suicide attacks periodically on housing complexes, markets, hospitals and even in graveyards to kill the members of the Muslim sect whom they consider infidels. The Quran chides Man for his quarrelsome and violent nature. Man always wants to impose his view or ideology on the people his dominates. Therefore, the Quran says: “Man is the most quarrelsome of all the things.”(Al Kahf: 54) “Made man out of a drop then he became quarrelsome, talking big.”(An Nahl: 4) God never asked men to kill other human beings for his pleasure because he does not derive pleasure when any of His creatures is killed. But the self-proclaimed authority of religion promote violence and killing in the name of God. The culture of violence all around the world in the name of religion or religious domination has put a question mark on the relevance of religion in the modern day. This violence killing children, women and the helpless and non-combatant people has turned many humanists away from religion. They have lost faith in the utility of religion. A universal morality has developed according to which people decided what is right and what is wrong. They do not care for what the religion has to say on a particular issue. Most people who are inspired by science or have scientific insight do believe in a power that drives the universe but they do not subscribe to any religious belief. For example, Einstein believed in a power that governed the universe but did not believe in a personal god. For this reason, he believed that Buddhism was the religion of the future world as it did not believe in a personal God. Many individuals of the younger generation in Muslim majority countries like Turkey do not believe in Islam but believe in Deism. As human civilization is progressing and exploring outer space and landing on other planets, their idea of a personal God is going a sea change. They do not see or understand God as the people of primitive age saw and understood Him. And insisting on this primitive understanding of God will be a foolish thing. The man of the modern age, therefore, does not give much importance to religion as a binding force but only as a means of providing spiritual solace and support in times of crisis and stress. URL: https://www.newageislam.com/spiritual-meditations/religion-modern-society/d/125869 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism

The Idea of Islamic Literature Does Not Find Support Even Among Islamic Writers

By S. Arshad, New Age Islam 30 November 2021 Islamic Literature, Like the Communist Literature Is Unacceptable To the Literary World Main Points: 1. Literature is secular in nature. 2. Literature deals with the iissues of entire humanity. 3. Literature should not be communalized. ---- Since literature is a mirror of life and society, modern human society has tried to use literature to fulfil its social, political and religious goals. In every age or in every society the dominant political stream or group has tried to use literature to spread its political ideology. For example, communist states tried to communize literature and such literature was widely created, published and distributed. The progressive movement that was based on communism was made popular by Indian writers including Urdu writers during the thirties till the sixties. Other ideological groups also tried to use literature for the spread of their ideology. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Also Read: Lack of Social and Literary Commitment in Contemporary Urdu Literature --------------------------------------------------------------------------- On this line, the movement for Islamic literature (Islami Adab was also started in Pakistan after the independence of India. Renowned critic Mohammad Hasan Askari was the most vocal exponent of Islamic literature in Pakistan. He wanted to shape the concept of Islami Adab. But it did not go too far as it was promoted as an opponent of the progressive movement that was based on communism. However, the idea of Islamic literature did not die completely. Since literature consists of poetry and fiction (stories, novels etc), it was debated if fiction is permitted by Islam and if so, what kind of fiction can be permitted. The other problem was that the common belief among Muslims was that poetry is condemned by Islam, though, in reality, the Quran only discourages purposeless and negative poetry that promotes un-Islamic practices and beliefs. From the verses of the Quran and from hadiths, it becomes clear that Islam is not against literature but that Islam has some guiding principles for literature. Urdu critics and ideologues have tried to define Islamic literature (Islami Adab) according to their own understanding. Pakistani critic Saleem Ahmad writes: “Islamic literature means the literature that expresses the Islamic way of thinking about God, Universe and Man.” .Saleem Ahmad In his book “Islami Afsanawi Adab”, Dr Mohammad Tariq Aiyubi Nadwi writes: “Islamic literature is the piece of literature which apart from having a purpose should be a product of the author’s intuition which is derived from his life and Islamic concepts of the universe in the light of the Quran and Hadith.” According to Dr Tariq Aiyubi, the idea of Islami Adab (Islamic literature) was first presented by Syed Qutb of Egypt and later by Indian Islamic scholar Maulana Abul Hasan Ali Nadwi. In Islam, the first specimens of Islamic literature can be found in the Qasas of the Quran which are told to drive home the Quranic messages of the unity of God, moral and ethical values, scientific temperament and tolerance, self-restraint and endurance. But since the Qasas were not fiction and were based on real incidents, fiction does not find support in the Quran. The specimens of Islamic poetry are found in the Naat (Poems of praise of the Prophet pbuh) and the poems of the companions of the prophet pbuh that were composed on Islamic conquests and on personal experiences of the Muslims. For example, Hadhrat Bilal expressed his personal feelings after migration to Madina in poetry. The prophet pbuh and his companions would recite couplets during the wars. In Urdu, Allama Iqbal’s poetry can be categorized as the specimens of Islamic poetry. Poetry of Altaf Hussain Hali is largely part of Islamic literature because he had the same idea of literature that later Iqbal adopted. Since fiction does not have the support of the Quran and hadith, Arab writers did not take interest in fiction for centuries and many Islamic critics do not still encourage fiction but there are some modern Arab critics who consider fiction a powerful medium for propagating Islamic ideas and messages. Therefore, according to Mohammad Sabagh: “If the missionary of the religion (Dayi) is capable of bringing this powerful medium (fiction) under the confines of Islam, fiction will become a noble medium.” (Islami Afsanwi Adab by Dr Tariq Aiyubi page 68) Taking his stand further some critics say that when Islam claims to be a complete system of life, it cannot reject literature as it is a fundamental and quintessential part of human society. Literature caters to the aesthetic needs of the human society and Islam appreciates aestheticism. “Allah loves aesthetic values” goes the Islamic adage. Prof. Nejatullah Siddiquee writes: Since the movement of Islamic literature was mainly promoted by the religious section for promoting Islamic ideology, the larger secular section of Muslim writers considered the genre only a vehicle for spreading the messages of Islam and hadiths and therefore, thought that Islamic literature will have many limitations on and matter and the use of diction This discouraged them from promoting this genre. If poetry and fiction is legitimized by the Islamic scholars, there remains the risk of using fiction and poetry for militant and extremist purposes. Though literature has in the past been used for carrying forward political and social ideology, such a literature has not been appreciated widely and only those pieces of such literature have acquired universal acceptance which dealt with universal issues of common interest. Gorky’s Mother falls in that category of literature. Therefore, a literature based on any religious ideology like Islami Adab will not get universal acceptance even by Muslim writers because then they will be considered subscribers to a communal ideology. Literature has always remained secular in nature. It has reflected the emotions and problems of the entire humanity. Therefore, the idea of Islamic literature needs to be defined clearly so that its contours become distinct. As of now, the idea of Islamic literature is vague. Therefore, Prof, Nejatullah Siddiquee writers; “The movement for the Islamic literature is in its infancy and Urdu Islamic writes are going through the experimental phase. If the idea is clear and the goal is in sight, we can expect that the number of true Islamic litterateurs and the volume of Islamic literature will keep increasing and will impact the society.”(Islam aur funun-e-latifa by Prof Nejatullah Siddiquee) URL: https://www.newageislam.com/islamic-culture/islamic-literature-writers/d/125868 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism

Islamic Political Thought: Why Introspection and Rethinking is a Must?

By Dr. Mohammad Ghitreef, New Age Islam 28 November 2021 Much Work Has Been Done In Islamic Thought In The Field Of The Revival Of Traditional Sciences Such As Quranic Exegetics, Hadees' Legacy Main Points: 1. After Ibn Khaldun and Al-Mawardi, there was no further evolution in Islamic political thinking at all. 2. Muslim thinkers did not develop new ideas based on human experiences. 3. Islamic State played havoc in the region and more recently the Taliban rule in Afghanistan is doing the same. 4. Secularism in its European sense is an ideology and practice that excludes religion from human life or at least restricts it to a private niche. ----- Much work has been done in Islamic thought in recent times, especially in the field of the revival of traditional sciences such as Quranic exegetics, Hadees' legacy, the printing of classical Fiqh literature, etc. What concerns us on some contemporary subjects and current issues remained untouched until now. The following lines will briefly highlight some of the aspects in which, to me, introspection and rethinking is a must. For the sake of brevity, only main points have been mentioned here and detailed discussion has been avoided. After Ibn Khaldun and Al-Mawardi, there was no further evolution in Islamic political thinking at all. For, Muslim political thought is text-based as Muslim thinkers did not develop new ideas based on human experiences. What should have been a natural evolution in Muslim political thinking did not continue. That is why on a practical level all Muslim countries are compelled to adopt secular liberal western political systems against which Islamists are waging jihad, save the Mid-East, where religious or semi-religious monarchies and kingships are ruling the roost. That is why Islamists everywhere are having only anachronistic ideas in this regard. Clearly a new discourse is needed, where you freely question, rethink in and discuss all the questions arising from modernity, to develop a new jurisprudence relevant to this age. Without this rethinking and revisiting the old set of political norms that have become irrelevant now, we cannot imagine any breakthrough in stagnant Islamic thought. Let me clarify my points citing some examples. In a democracy, contrasting to army dictatorship, monarchy or kingship the real emphasis is on the participation of common people in governance. Not realizing this fact many Muslim scholars have arbitrarily raised the issue of sovereignty of God while discussing the concept of democracy. This is an additional and relative issue. No Muslim can challenge God Almighty’s sovereignty in Muslim majority countries. The debate is practical because people fear that in the name of Islam pure Mullahism would be established. This is not surprising keeping in view the gory nature of now dead ISIS caliphate that emerged in Mideast recently The so-called Islamic State played havoc in the region and more recently the Taliban rule in Afghanistan is doing the same. However, in non-Muslim majority countries, the demand for God's sovereignty will be futile. The secular polity is the best option for these countries, and of course, Muslims in such countries do prefer that option, but here lies the contradictory stand of Muslim intelligentsia and Ulema. That where Muslims are in the majority they oppose the secular state vehemently and wherein they are in the minority they want to keep, defend and protect secularism, multiculturalism and such modern concepts. Secularism in its European sense is an ideology and practice that excludes religion from human life or at least restricts it to a private niche. Obviously, no one among the Muslim scholars can support this ideology in Muslim-majority countries. As far as the countries where different religious units reside secular neutral polity is the best policy for these multicultural, multi-lingual, and multi-religious societies. Muslim intellectuals generally confuse the two and talk non-sense about it. Yes, there are some exceptions too for example Saeed Ahmad Akbar Abadi, Prof. Mushirul Haq, Maulana Wahiduddin Khan, and Dr. Abdul Haq Ansari the ex-chief of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind, support secular state as it does not interfere in the affairs of any faith community and is not biased to any religious, ethnic or racial group, and where all citizens are equal in its eyes and the rule of law is maintained. Islamic jurisprudence is full of old discussions of Darul Islam (abode of Islam) and Darul Harb (abode of Kufr) but while these terms may have been relevant in the Abbasid times, they are not relevant today. Now new terms need to be coined as Khan termed the world as Dare Dawah and Qardawi termed it as Darul and as all the world nations now are signers of the UN Charter and are bound to comply with its rules and regulations. Likewise, the terms dhimmi, trusted citizen (Mustamin), etc. are used for non-Muslim citizens in a nation of Muslim majority, but they are not in accordance with the currently accepted concepts of citizenship. In modern nation-states, all the citizens have the same constitutional rights in a nation, for they are governed by their constitutions respectively. Yes, the practical situation is indeed quite the opposite in many countries. It is not acceptable for the modern mind to differentiate between citizens based on religion as some are first-class citizens while some are considered second-rate ones. The concept of the punishment of apostasy is in conflict with the modern religious freedom as seen by the majority of modern educated people and also against the explicit text of the Qur'an ("There is no coercion in the matter of religion," 2:256) as averred by the majority of Muslim modernists today. Of course, the majority of Islamic scholars have through the ages been bearers of this notion, but there has been another opinion about it from the first Hijra century itself, which remained suppressed because this was not suited to the nexus of kings, politicians, and mullahs. Wouldn't it be appropriate to put forth that opinion in today's world? The concept of the blasphemy law and its application being vested in public hands is not acceptable to the modern mind. It should be discussed thoroughly which is less likely in Muslim societies. About 1500 people have been arrested under this law in Pakistan since 1990. And more than 70 people have been extra-judicially murdered. It often happened that on provocation by the clergy some people from the masses have got up and killed the accused. While none of them could be found guilty in the court and in some cases, the courts had even acquitted them. Anyone can be charged with blasphemy in Pakistan if he dares to challenge the behaviour of religious people. Pakistan's liberal thinkers and intellectuals speak out against this horrible situation but they are always in danger themselves. Punjab Governor Salman Taseer was assassinated by non other than his own bodyguard, a religious extremist, for demanding the repeal of inhuman blasphemy laws and showing sympathy for blasphemy accused Christian lady Asia Bibi. And after his execution this assassin has become a religious hero to a large section of people. Strangely the Hanafi Fiqh which is followed by the majority of Muslims in the subcontinent does not confirm the death penalty in every case. It offers other options too. But ironically in the subcontinent, the opinion of Imam Ibn Taymiyyah is generally accepted and the consensus is claimed on it. The danger lies herein that the general reaction of Muslims in blasphemy cases is to punish the culprit immediately especially in Muslim majority countries, while in the non-Muslim majority countries their reaction is limited to protests. Maulana Wahiduddin Khan, Javed Ahmad Ghamidi et al have challenged this traditional stand. Many other scholars hold the same view but do not express it for fear of public backlash. On the one hand, the subject is very sensitive, it can be said safely that in this regard Muslims do not understand the sensitivities of the West about the freedom of thought which is almost a religion for Westerners and is considered as a Summum Bonum of humanity. The people in the West do not understand the sensitivities of Muslims regarding the honour of the beloved prophet (PBUH). So dealing with this subject and opening the way for dialogue with the West is the need of the hour. One of the points related to this is that theoretically blasphemy law includes insulting Allah, the Holy Qur'an, the Holy Prophet, and any other prophet and there are many blasphemous statements towards Jesus in the West but Muslims act violently only against the humiliation of the Messenger of Allah. Why this disparity? I lament the bankruptcy of Indian Muslim leadership. Not learning any lesson from Pakistan the AILMPLB is demanding to enact anti-blasphemy law here in India. Today practically no Islamic country demands Jizyah from its non-Muslim citizens. But scholars and jurists in their writings and fatwas still insist on it and say that it is prescribed by God to humiliate non-Muslims. Moulana Subhani has given a new opinion that Jizyah will not apply to the common people nor is it a sign of humiliation of non-Muslims rather it is a political settlement between combatant Muslim and non-Muslim states. Would it not be appropriate to ponder upon this opinion? In fact, when the compilation of Islamic jurisprudence began, the Islamic world at that time was superior and the whole Islamic lands were under one Caliph, or at least the authority of one caliph was not being challenged ideologically and the Muslim Sultans were claiming allegiance and fidelity towards the Caliph. The political principles that were written down then and the writings Muslim thinkers left behind are mostly ideological and do not contain any solution to the new problems of the present. For example, they do not answer the question that if a non-Muslim country does not commit aggression the Islamic State's relations with it will be based on war or peace? Because most of the jurists say that a true Islamic state is permanently at war with non-Muslim countries. Obviously, this opinion is very problematic in today’s world and it leaves all the claims Muslims made that Islam is a religion of peace and love suspect. According to some Muslim scholars, Islamic jurisprudence flourished under the rule of Islam. For this reason, it gives detailed guidance to Muslims on the situation when they are in power, but when Muslims are in a state of living under the suzerainty of others or in the situation when power is shared as in India now, then the Islamic jurisprudence is unable to provide guidance for such a situation. The discourse of “jurisprudence for minority” has been created by this practical need because Muslim minorities now constitute 40 percent of their total population around the world. Similarly, there is no mechanism for the peaceful transfer of power in Islamic thought. Due to which most of the history of Islam is full of court conspiracies, power struggles between one Caliph, his sons, ministers, and all-powerful Military, and consequent bloodshed. Much work remains to be done and in this regard, Ijtihad and modern thinking are required. --- Dr. Mohammad Ghitreef is a Research Scholar with the Centre for promotion of Educational and Cultural Advancement of Muslims of India, AMU, Aligarh. URL: https://www.newageislam.com/ijtihad-rethinking-islam/islamic-political-thought-introspection/d/125858 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism

What Is Wrong With Pro-Islamophobic Media And Elements Declaring Islam To Be A Terrorist Religion?

Without A Doubt, Islam Is A Very Humanitarian And Tolerant Religion Main Points: 1. Violence and Islam are like fire and water. 2. The right of human life to be treated with respect and dignity, as well as to live in peace and contentment, has been prioritised in all of the world's religions and faiths. 3. Islam and Muslims are accused of attempting to propagate Islam throughout the universe by terrorism and coercion, despite the fact that the Qur'an explicitly prohibits this. 4. Certain radicals are committing acts of terrorism in the name of Islam and it is our job to continue spreading the Islamic message, which emphasises the significance of promoting peace. ------ By Kaniz Fatma, New Age Islam 27 November 2021 (Photo courtesy: Media Diversity Institute) ----- Today, some pro-Islamophobia media and elements make a ruthless endeavour to prove that Islam teaches hatred, promotes human disdain, and is tied to terrorism. Violence and Islam, on the other hand, are like fire and water. Islam cannot exist where there is bloodshed. Similarly, there can be no shadow of violence when Islam exists. Islam is a source of peace and harmony, as well as a faith that fosters human love and goodwill, as Allah states: “O you who have believed, enter into peace [Silm/Islam] completely [and perfectly] and do not follow the footsteps of Satan. Indeed, he is to you a clear enemy.” (2:208) “And cause not corruption upon the earth after its reformation. And invoke Him in fear and aspiration. Indeed, the mercy of Allah is near to the doers of good.” (7:56) The right of human life to be treated with respect and dignity, as well as to live in peace and contentment, has been prioritised in all of the world's religions and faiths. Allah be praised! In this regard, Islam holds the highest position. Allah Almighty says, “And do not kill the soul which Allah has forbidden [to be killed] except by [legal] right. This has He instructed you that you may use reason.” (6:151) Thanks to these clear Islamic teachings, the world witnessed an extraordinary scene of human life protection. The awful episodes of horrific human life, terror, and bloodshed throughout the great empires of the world disappeared after the arrival of Islam. Because of Islamic teachings, humanity was saved in a relatively short period of time. Human respect, peace, and security spread throughout the world and a murderous nation like Arabia was shaped into the mould of civilization and nobility. This reality is spelled forth in the Holy Qur'an as follows: “And you were on the edge of a pit of the Fire, and He saved you from it. Thus does Allah make clear to you His verses that you may be guided.” (3:103) Sadly Today, there are attempts on all sides to disparage Islamic ideals. Islam has always rejected violence and terrorism and advocated for peace and security. Terrorism and persecution are prohibited in Islam. According to Islamic teachings, persecution can be retaliated against, but if the oppressed commits a transgression, he will join the oppressor's ranks. The divine command is as follows: “...Allah does not like transgressors” (2:190) The position of Islam on terrorism and violence is unequivocal: Islam opposes unjust killing, as stated in the Holy Qur'an: “Because of that, We decreed upon the Children of Israel that whoever kills a soul unless for a soul or for corruption [done] in the land - it is as if he had slain mankind entirely. And whoever saves one - it is as if he had saved mankind entirely. And our messengers had certainly come to them with clear proofs. Then indeed many of them, [even] after that, throughout the land, were transgressors.” (5:32) “Associating partners with Allah or killing someone [unjustly] and disrespecting one's parents are among the worst sins in Allah's sight,” the Holy Prophet is purported to have remarked. (Bukhari) Today, Islam and Muslims are accused of attempting to propagate Islam throughout the universe by terrorism and coercion, despite the fact that the Qur'an explicitly prohibits this. “There is no compulsion in the religion; the straight path has been diverted from the wrong path” (2:256) Similarly, Allah Almighty forbids believers from insulting people of other faiths, saying, “And do not insult those they invoke other than Allah, lest they insult Allah in enmity without knowledge. Thus We have made pleasing to every community their deeds. Then to their Lord is their return, and He will inform them about what they used to do.” In terms of religious beliefs and dissemination, Islam is exceedingly humanitarian and tolerant. It forbids anyone from imposing or forcing something on someone else. If someone conducts terrorism or violence in the name of Islam, he is not a Muslim, but a man who has departed from the path of Islam, and this act would be the most heinous exploitation of Islamic Shariah. Photo courtesy: WACC Communication for All) ------ Torture and violence are not tolerated in Islam. Islam not only necessitates the abolition of violence to handle any internal issues within the Muslim community, but it also teaches good morals to individuals of all religions living in a region or territory on a global or greater scale, as Allah says: “Allah does not forbid you from those who do not fight you because of religion and do not expel you from your homes - from being righteous toward them and acting justly toward them. Indeed, Allah loves those who act justly.” (60:8) Speaking out against injustice and telling the truth in front of oppressors is emphasised in the Islamic religion, and it is regarded a vital trait of a sincere believer. While Islam has affirmed the sanctity of human life, it has also stated that those who sow dissension and corruption, as well as those who shed human blood, will not be pardoned. Tensions in society are unsuitable for Islam, which seeks to stop all types of confrontations and squabbles and to foster chances for friendship and collaboration among individuals in a peaceful atmosphere, as Allah Almighty states. “And hold firmly to the rope of Allah all together and do not become divided. And remember the favor of Allah upon you - when you were enemies and He brought your hearts together and you became, by His favor, brothers. And you were on the edge of a pit of the Fire, and He saved you from it. Thus does Allah make clear to you His verses that you may be guided.” (3:103) All of these magnificent teachings were revealed so that God's servants may never cease working to fulfil their mission and the goal of the universe's creation, by doing good acts in this world with sincerity and piety, and thus be deserving of Allah Almighty's pleasant tidings. “And when guidance comes to you from Me, whoever follows My guidance - there will be no fear concerning them, nor will they grieve.” (2:38) The bottom line is that Islamic history, traditions, and temperament all testify to the fact that it has never tolerated terrorism or violence, and that the vast change it has wrought in the globe has been based on its high values, which may be described as a just and peaceful revolution. It is acknowledged that certain radicals are committing acts of terrorism in the name of Islam. As a result, it is our job to continue spreading the Islamic message, which emphasises the significance of promoting peace. URL: https://www.newageislam.com/muslims-islamophobia/islamophobic-media-terrorist-religion/d/125851 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism

The Holy Quran Lays Emphasis on the Nutritional and Medicinal Values of Natural Products

The Quran Does Not Mean That the Verses Should Be Used For Cure But It Suggests Research On Nature Cure Main Points: 1. Quran swears by the importance of Olive and Fig. 2. It says that honey and milk have great nutritional and medicinal value. 3. Grapes and Dates also have nutritional and medicinal value. ---- New Age Islam Staff Writer 27 November 2021 The Quran has been revealed as a book of religious, social, economic and political guiding document for the followers of Islam. But it is not a dry book of commandments and do’s and don’ts. It deals with all the spheres of life. The followers of Islam can turn to the Quran for guidance in individual as well as communal life. Quran not only deals with spiritual matters but also deals with scientific and economic affairs. God claims that the Quran does not leave any dry or any wet thing to be discussed in the Quran. Therefore, the Quran also deals with medical issues and the cure of diseases in the Quran. Though, the Quran does not specifically tells us about the cure of diseases and the medicines or cures for different diseases but advises its followers to do research on various herbs and plants, fruits and vegetables. It gives hint of the medicinal properties of some of the fruits, and natural products like milk and honey. The Quran opens the field of research in Naturopathy and suggests that Nature cure is the best cure. The Quran also says that there is no disease in the world which does not have a cure. So the term incurable disease is not according to the principle of Islam. There is a verse in the Quran which says that the Quran is a healing or cure: “We send down the Quran as a healing and mercy for the believers, but it only increases the wrongdoers in loss.”(Al Isra: 82) This led some Islamic scholars to interpret that the verses of the Quran can be used as a cure for diseases. No doubt, verses of the Quran have great powers but God wants Muslims to develop their own medical system by doing research into the Nature. When God says that Quran has been sent down as a healing and mercy for the believers, it means that the Holy Quran has cure for spiritual diseases like atheism, caprice, hate, lust etc. Moreover it means that the Quran also hints at the medicinal properties of natural products, and so advises Muslims to do research on them and find cures for various diseases in them. And your Lord inspired the bees: “Make ˹your˺ homes in the mountains, the trees, and in what people construct, and feed from ˹the flower of˺ any fruit ˹you please˺ and follow the ways your Lord has made easy for you.” From their bellies comes forth liquid of varying colours, in which there is healing for people. Surely in this is a sign for those who reflect. (An Nahl: 69) “With it He produces for you ˹various˺ crops, olives, palm trees, grapevines, and every type of fruit. Surely in this is a sign for those who reflect”. (An Nahl: 11) And Verily! In the cattle there is indeed a lesson for you. We give you to drink (milk) of that which is in their bellies. And there are, in them, numerous (other) benefits for you, and of them you eat. (Al Muminun: 21) In the verse of surah An Nahl, Quran says that a liquid from the bellies of bees is obtained which is of varying colours. The liquid is honey. The honey is of varying colours like yellow, chocolate and even white. Some hadiths also tell us about the medicinal qualities of honey. Milk is another natural product about which the Quran says that it is beneficial for man. Some hadiths also mention the medicinal qualities of milk. In surah At Tin, God swears by Olive and Fig. It suggests that Olive and Fig possess great medicinal values. Modern science also confirms that these fruits have great health benefits. Similarly, grapes and dates are also mentioned in the Quran as having great nutritional and medicinal value. Therefore, the Quran lays emphasis on the nutritional and medicinal values of various fruits and natural products. The Quran wants Muslims to do research on these fruits and natural products to find out their medicinal and nutritional values in detail. URL: https://www.newageislam.com/islam-environment/quran-nutritional-medicinal-natural/d/125853 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism

What Is Wrong With Pro-Islamophobic Media And Elements Declaring Islam To Be A Terrorist Religion?

Without A Doubt, Islam Is A Very Humanitarian And Tolerant Religion Main Points: 1. Violence and Islam are like fire and water. 2. The right of human life to be treated with respect and dignity, as well as to live in peace and contentment, has been prioritised in all of the world's religions and faiths. 3. Islam and Muslims are accused of attempting to propagate Islam throughout the universe by terrorism and coercion, despite the fact that the Qur'an explicitly prohibits this. 4. Certain radicals are committing acts of terrorism in the name of Islam and it is our job to continue spreading the Islamic message, which emphasises the significance of promoting peace. ------ By Kaniz Fatma, New Age Islam 27 November 2021 (Photo courtesy: Media Diversity Institute) ----- Today, some pro-Islamophobia media and elements make a ruthless endeavour to prove that Islam teaches hatred, promotes human disdain, and is tied to terrorism. Violence and Islam, on the other hand, are like fire and water. Islam cannot exist where there is bloodshed. Similarly, there can be no shadow of violence when Islam exists. Islam is a source of peace and harmony, as well as a faith that fosters human love and goodwill, as Allah states: “O you who have believed, enter into peace [Silm/Islam] completely [and perfectly] and do not follow the footsteps of Satan. Indeed, he is to you a clear enemy.” (2:208) “And cause not corruption upon the earth after its reformation. And invoke Him in fear and aspiration. Indeed, the mercy of Allah is near to the doers of good.” (7:56) The right of human life to be treated with respect and dignity, as well as to live in peace and contentment, has been prioritised in all of the world's religions and faiths. Allah be praised! In this regard, Islam holds the highest position. Allah Almighty says, “And do not kill the soul which Allah has forbidden [to be killed] except by [legal] right. This has He instructed you that you may use reason.” (6:151) Thanks to these clear Islamic teachings, the world witnessed an extraordinary scene of human life protection. The awful episodes of horrific human life, terror, and bloodshed throughout the great empires of the world disappeared after the arrival of Islam. Because of Islamic teachings, humanity was saved in a relatively short period of time. Human respect, peace, and security spread throughout the world and a murderous nation like Arabia was shaped into the mould of civilization and nobility. This reality is spelled forth in the Holy Qur'an as follows: “And you were on the edge of a pit of the Fire, and He saved you from it. Thus does Allah make clear to you His verses that you may be guided.” (3:103) Sadly Today, there are attempts on all sides to disparage Islamic ideals. Islam has always rejected violence and terrorism and advocated for peace and security. Terrorism and persecution are prohibited in Islam. According to Islamic teachings, persecution can be retaliated against, but if the oppressed commits a transgression, he will join the oppressor's ranks. The divine command is as follows: “...Allah does not like transgressors” (2:190) The position of Islam on terrorism and violence is unequivocal: Islam opposes unjust killing, as stated in the Holy Qur'an: “Because of that, We decreed upon the Children of Israel that whoever kills a soul unless for a soul or for corruption [done] in the land - it is as if he had slain mankind entirely. And whoever saves one - it is as if he had saved mankind entirely. And our messengers had certainly come to them with clear proofs. Then indeed many of them, [even] after that, throughout the land, were transgressors.” (5:32) “Associating partners with Allah or killing someone [unjustly] and disrespecting one's parents are among the worst sins in Allah's sight,” the Holy Prophet is purported to have remarked. (Bukhari) Today, Islam and Muslims are accused of attempting to propagate Islam throughout the universe by terrorism and coercion, despite the fact that the Qur'an explicitly prohibits this. “There is no compulsion in the religion; the straight path has been diverted from the wrong path” (2:256) Similarly, Allah Almighty forbids believers from insulting people of other faiths, saying, “And do not insult those they invoke other than Allah, lest they insult Allah in enmity without knowledge. Thus We have made pleasing to every community their deeds. Then to their Lord is their return, and He will inform them about what they used to do.” In terms of religious beliefs and dissemination, Islam is exceedingly humanitarian and tolerant. It forbids anyone from imposing or forcing something on someone else. If someone conducts terrorism or violence in the name of Islam, he is not a Muslim, but a man who has departed from the path of Islam, and this act would be the most heinous exploitation of Islamic Shariah. Photo courtesy: WACC Communication for All) ------ Torture and violence are not tolerated in Islam. Islam not only necessitates the abolition of violence to handle any internal issues within the Muslim community, but it also teaches good morals to individuals of all religions living in a region or territory on a global or greater scale, as Allah says: “Allah does not forbid you from those who do not fight you because of religion and do not expel you from your homes - from being righteous toward them and acting justly toward them. Indeed, Allah loves those who act justly.” (60:8) Speaking out against injustice and telling the truth in front of oppressors is emphasised in the Islamic religion, and it is regarded a vital trait of a sincere believer. While Islam has affirmed the sanctity of human life, it has also stated that those who sow dissension and corruption, as well as those who shed human blood, will not be pardoned. Tensions in society are unsuitable for Islam, which seeks to stop all types of confrontations and squabbles and to foster chances for friendship and collaboration among individuals in a peaceful atmosphere, as Allah Almighty states. “And hold firmly to the rope of Allah all together and do not become divided. And remember the favor of Allah upon you - when you were enemies and He brought your hearts together and you became, by His favor, brothers. And you were on the edge of a pit of the Fire, and He saved you from it. Thus does Allah make clear to you His verses that you may be guided.” (3:103) All of these magnificent teachings were revealed so that God's servants may never cease working to fulfil their mission and the goal of the universe's creation, by doing good acts in this world with sincerity and piety, and thus be deserving of Allah Almighty's pleasant tidings. “And when guidance comes to you from Me, whoever follows My guidance - there will be no fear concerning them, nor will they grieve.” (2:38) The bottom line is that Islamic history, traditions, and temperament all testify to the fact that it has never tolerated terrorism or violence, and that the vast change it has wrought in the globe has been based on its high values, which may be described as a just and peaceful revolution. It is acknowledged that certain radicals are committing acts of terrorism in the name of Islam. As a result, it is our job to continue spreading the Islamic message, which emphasises the significance of promoting peace. URL: https://www.newageislam.com/muslims-islamophobia/islamophobic-media-terrorist-religion/d/125851 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism

Abu Ibrahim al-Hashmi al-Qurashi, Abubakar Shekau, Haibatullah Akhundzada to Ayman Al- Zawahiri - All Are Playing a Foolish but Deadly Friend to Muslims

By Arman Neyazi, New Age Islam 27 November 2021 Muslims Will Have to Understand That the Al-Qaeda, Taliban, Boko Haram and ISIS Militants Are Misguided People Pretending To Fight for Islam Main Points: 1. The ideologues of all the terrorist organisations are befooling people by pronouncing them to be religious Jihadis. 2. Terrorists and militants are playing ‘a a foolish’ with Muslims. 3. People who are ignorant of the fundamental message of compassion, love and humility are guiding the so-called Jihadis on the battlefield. 4. Change of the world from spiritualism to materialism is the game of hypocrite political and religious leaders. ------ Read, O Prophet, in the Name of your Lord Who created— is the first verse to be revealed on Prophet Muhammad Pbuh by Allah the All-Knower. This Ayat asks every Muslim to read. Reading is that generates a logical understanding of the things and happenings around us. The followers of Islam were told that literacy is one of the most important essences of religion. Prophet Muhammad Pbuh says, ‘Seeking knowledge is obligatory upon every Muslim.’ (Hadees of Anas ibn Maalik, narrated by Ibn Majah). In the 21st century world, Muslims have become one of the most illogical people on the canvass spread on earth. The much renowned Islamic scholars are well versed in the Quran texts and Hadees but the theological understanding they create among their followers is that of the following of their version of Islam. (File Photo) ------ It is shocking that Islam that declared education a religious duty is lagging in it because of the terrorist scholars playing in the hands of them who want to see bridges among Muslims that cannot be crossed. There have to be seventy-two sects in Islam but none of them is supposed to speak ill of the other, as it is against the preamble of Islam. The Holy Quran says: The believers are but brothers, so make settlement between your brothers. And fear Allah that you may receive mercy. (Al-Hujurat: 10) Sahih International. Every sect has its leader and the leaders are supposed to be Quran and Hadees exegesis but none of them teaches inclusiveness, at least, among themselves. Their fighting against each other shows that they either do not understand what the Quran says or they have their understanding of the Holy Quran and Hadees. Understanding and teaching of the Holy Quran and Hadees by scholars like Abu Ibrahim al-Hashmi al-Qurashi, Abubakar Shekau, Haibatullah Akhundzada and Ayman Al- Zawahiri has transformed peaceful Muslims into terrorists and militants and they fight none but their brothers and sisters. For people who fight among themselves and do not listen to what the Holy Quran says or bring out the meaning that suits them are those for whom Allah, the Exalted says: Surely, those who have made divisions in their religion and turned into factions, you have nothing to do with them. Their case rests with Allah alone; then He will tell them what they have been doing. (Al-Anam: 159) — Mufti Taqi Usmani So leave them in their utter confusion (due to their ignorance) for a time. (Al-Muminun: 53) Amatul Rahman Omar Muslims understanding of the Holy Quran and Sunnah and Hadees is the most pathetic, today. The turmoil Islam is in today may be the precursor of more damages to Islamic ethics and essence in the days to come. Education is not carrying loads of internationally renowned universities certificates and diplomas. From this view, many of the world religions’ leaders and innumerable activists of this era will fall in the category of uneducated and illiterate when the fact is, they were and are wise people who have guided the world on the path of humanity, humility, compassion and social ethics. (File Photo) ------ Come what may but an educated person cannot be a fool. In this 21st century, materialistic world people are seeing that they had never imagined seeing. There are people from the highest seat of world power to the lowest that is making a fool of themselves by supporting (silently) the foolish acts of the elected representatives of the world democratic setup. One cannot doubt the educational institutions that have granted them certificates of Doctor of Philosophy and religious scholars of the highest degree. And this brings us to the conclusion that they are educated people, then why are they acting foolish. They are supporting their masters (political bosses and religious heads) knowing that what they are doing is religiously, socially against the spirit of humanity. If they have not been taught let it be in their knowledge that the supporters of the crime are as much liable to answer in the here and hereafter courts. And the punishment in both the courts, in here and hereafter, for crime against humanity, I suppose, has to be very harsh. To such people, Allah the Exalted and All-Knower calls, hypocrites, and the punishment hereafter have to be, most probably hellfire, unless Allah the Exalted forgives them on some count or the other. Allah the Most Compassionate says in the Holy Quran: (O you who have believed, let not a people ridicule [another) people; perhaps they may be better than them) (Quran 49:11) Indeed, those who committed crimes used to laugh at those who believed. (Quran 83:29) And do not insult one another and do not call each other by [offensive] nicknames… (49:11 The point that is beyond the understanding of every right-minded person is, why the highly educated people who are aware of the consequences, both here and hereafter, indulge in such anti humane and anti-divinity acts. Do they not know what the religions say about them? At least here in India, our educational journey starts with the religious hymns, Shlokas and recitation of the Holy Quran, so there is no question of people in Asia and all other Muslim countries not being aware of the religious lessons of spirituality and divinity that wholly denounces fighting to create a rift in the society. Consider the following Hadees “Whoever bears arms against us is not one of us, and whoever cheats us is not one of us.” (Saheeh Muslim) “Every traitor will have a banner on the Day of Resurrection and it will be said: This is the betrayer of so-and-so.” (Sahih Al-Bukhari) The world is moving faster than imagination, towards the destruction of all the positive norms of a humane society. The humane ethos of our lives has broken to pieces without our knowledge. It all happened, as if, in the blink of an eye. Now that the humane essence of brotherhood and inclusivity has almost lost its sheen there have to be all the satanic qualities of hatred, jealousy and cultural and social degradation. Following Hadees is a true mirror of the social environment today. Consider the following Hadees and understand to what it points: Abu Hurairah reported Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) as saying: (When) the time would draw close to the Last Hour, knowledge would be snatched away, turmoil would be rampant, miserliness would be put (in the hearts of the people) and there would be much blood-shed. They said: What is al-harj? Thereupon he said: It is bloodshed. — (Sahih Muslim) Every day there is a new phobia, rapes of innocent souls, killings, breaking of family norms in the world and all in the name of divine religions. These all are a part of the new normal of the world that has changed to materialism from spiritualism. Change of the world from spiritualism to materialism is the game of hypocrite political and religious leaders. On one hand, the powerful and developed countries are fighting for the supremacism of their political and religious ideologies and are fooling the world that they are fighting to eliminate terrorism. And on the other hand, the terrorist ideologues of the terror organisations are befooling people by making them believe that they are fighting for the establishment of Islamic Shariah rules. Both are playing foolish with their respective audience. Ayman al-Zawahiri (left) and Osama bin Laden (right)/ Photo: TRT World ------ Muslims will have to understand that the Al-Qaeda, Taliban, Boko Haram and ISIS militants are misguided people and that they are not fighting for the supremacy of Allah, the Exalted, the Holy Prophet Muhammad Pbuh, the Holy Quran and the Sunnah. But they are toys in the hands of the powers that be and are playing ‘a foolish’ with Muslims. Those who are ignorant of the fundamental message of compassion, love and humility that Allah the Exalted commands in the Holy Quran and the Apostle of Allah, Holy Prophet Muhammad Pbuh has time and again taught his disciples, are guiding the so-called Jihadis on the battlefield. A foolish friend is more dangerous than an intelligent enemy and the likes of Abu Ibrahim al-Hashmi al-Qurashi, Abubakar Shekau, Haibatullah Akhundzada, Ayman Al- Zawahiri and their likes have brought nothing but disaster to the peaceful and beautiful Islamic nations. Muslims should be taught the lesson of compassion and humility as these are Islamic essence, not hatred and anger that is the sign of Satan. Consider the following Quranic verses and Prophetic traditions and spread the message of love and peace. Beware of ‘foolish friends’. “So woe to those who pray but are heedless of their prayer; those who only show off, And (refuse and) prevent (small) kindnesses.” (Al-Mau: 4-6) “Worship Allah [alone] and associate none with Him. And be kind to parents, relatives, orphans, the poor, near and distant neighbours, close friends, [needy] travellers, and those [bonds people] in your possession. Surely Allah does not like whoever is arrogant, boastful—“(An-Nisa: 36) Prophetic traditions given underneath are needed to be followed by all those who are fighting among themselves and creating reasons for Islamophobia even among those who never doubted the authenticity of Islam as a religion of peace. “Whoever relieves a believer’s distress of the distressful aspects of this world, Allah will rescue him from a difficulty of the difficulties of the Hereafter. (Muslim) “O Aisha, Allah is gentle and He loves gentleness. He rewards for gentleness what is not granted for harshness and He does not reward anything else like it.” (Muslim). Narrated by `Abdullah bin `Amr: The Prophet (ﷺ) said, “A Muslim is the one who avoids harming Muslims with his tongue or his hands.” (Sahih al-Bukhari 6484) People who keep asking for His forgiveness and supplicate for guidance on the righteous path are certainly much more educated, intelligent and cultured than the people on the battlefield fighting for establishing the supremacy of those masters who care just for themselves both in politics and in religion. The ideologues of all the terrorist organisations are befooling people by pronouncing them to be religious Jihadis. They are puppets of the countries they show to be fighting against. And Allah Knows the Best. ---- Arman Neyazi is a columnist with NewAgeIslam.com. URL: https://www.newageislam.com/radical-islamism-jihad/abubakar-haibatullah-akhundzada-ayman-zawahiri-/d/125852 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism

Interfaith Academic Work Is Vital In Strengthening the Spirit of Peace and Brotherhood

By Ghulam Ghaus Siddiqi, New Age Islam 27 November 2021 Interfaith Dialogue: The Need of the Hour Main Points: 1. We need to grasp the concept of homeland love, or what it means to love one's own country. 2. We must focus on finding remedies rather than making things and events more provocative. 3. Hatred and violence cannot be utilised as a means of combating hatred and violence. 4. Its imperative that we get to know one another and form strong interfaith relationships. 5. Interfaith education is welcome, but it should focus on fostering peace and harmony rather than debating and disputing. .... Mohammad Farooq Azmi's piece in the Sahara Urdu daily was noticed a few days ago. The author described the interfaith conversation as a pressing need, and he extended a heartfelt invitation to all leaders to help India develop a climate of peace, tolerance, and brotherhood. Our lovely countrymen profess to love India today, but first, we must understand the concept of homeland love, or what it means to love one’s homeland. Patriotism, in my opinion, means working to ensure the welfare of all citizens of the nation. Individuals of various faiths reside in our country, and while everyone has the constitutional right to live and die according to his or her religion, we must demonstrate in practice that we do not injure people of other faiths. People in every neighbourhood and state must ensure that they maintain a spirit of brotherhood and peace with people of other religions while being true to their own religion and faith and that no terrible events disrupt the peaceful atmosphere of our country. ----------------------------------------------------------------- Also Read: Large-Scale Interfaith Studies Are Urgently Needed To Achieve Interfaith Harmony and Prevent the Growing Hatred in the Country ----------------------------------------------------------------- If one of our Indian brothers does anything wrong, the first thing we should do is try to reform him. We should not condemn him only to humiliate him; rather, we should propose a meaningful solution to the problem; otherwise, it would be nothing more than a provocative act that will damage the environment in our beloved motherland. The following English translation of Farooq Azmi's Urdu article is presented with the goal of demonstrating the importance of academic work in strengthening the spirit of brotherhood and peace in our country. We must create such a curriculum so that future generations may effectively contribute to the growth of the country by cultivating a culture of prosperity and brotherhood. ------- Interfaith Dialogue: The Need of the Hour By Muhammad Farooq Azmi Translated from Urdu by Ghulam Ghaus Siddiqi India is being confronted with a number of intellectual, ideological, political, social, and religious issues. Religious, linguistic, social, and political prejudices and interests are quickly turning into violence and fanaticism. Every day, a new storey of sectarianism and violence emerges. From Tripura, Assam, and Uttar Pradesh to Gujarat, a tsunami of hatred has swept the country. If this tide of hostility is not contained, we may find ourselves fighting amongst ourselves and eventually annihilating ourselves. Getting the beloved country out of this situation and fostering a climate of tolerance, enthusiasm, and mutual trust has become a pressing requirement of the hour. I'm not sure if the nation's leaders are aware of this need or what steps they've made to address it, but some sensitive Muslims in West Bengal have recognised the urgency of the situation and have chosen the tough path of interfaith dialogue to break the cycle of hostility. A group called the "Bengal Institute of Multicultural Studies" has also been formed. These people strive to foster in society the concepts of brotherhood, scientific temperament, and social justice. Their goals and objectives are to do research and report on many elements of social, economic, political, historical, and cultural concerns affecting various classes, as well as to determine a plan of action in light of those findings. ‘Interfaith and Intercultural Dialogue’ was recently inaugurated by the institute, which includes professors, teachers, journalists, and intellectuals from Jadavpur University, Calcutta University, St. Xavier's College, and other prestigious educational institutes in West Bengal. They also advised the country and the nation that if discrimination, prejudice, and animosity are to be removed, we must pursue a path of conversation rather than confrontation. Regardless of ideological disagreements, the only way to establish peaceful cohabitation is via dialogue and discussion. It goes without saying that hate and violence cannot be used to combat hate and violence. Without developing peace and stability in society and taking into account each other's sentiments and emotions, peaceful cohabitation is impossible to envision. In order to achieve social peace, every member of society must develop a more positive attitude toward one another without discrimination. Rather than adopting a contemptuous and disrespectful attitude, behave gently without harming the opponent's self-esteem, and this is the exact tolerance that may be the only way to alter today's hate-filled environment. Tolerance is essential for coexistence in a multicultural and multi-religious society like India. We won't be able to achieve peaceful coexistence unless we instil tolerance in our personal and communal life. This sentiment cannot be created in this way; instead, a few individuals must emerge among us who endure in the face of adversity and, through dialogue and discussion, find a solution to the problem, as well as urge others to do likewise. It is not forbidden in any religion to have good relations with others without renouncing one's own religion or beliefs, and no rational person can argue against it. Essentially, all religions offer a message of peace; nevertheless, humanity's fault is that it has begun to use the same religion for discrimination, hatred, and violence against one another. In today's India, religious prejudice is one of the leading sources of enmity. Unfamiliarity and inferiority contribute to prejudice. Non-alignment with one's religious principles, as well as sometimes fanaticism, contributes to the spread of religious prejudice. We won't be able to comprehend one another or develop a community that is harmonious and united unless we eliminate prejudice. There can be no peace in society, no stability, and no balance in our social life without developing a pleasant climate amongst adherents of different religions and establishing a tolerant spirit towards one another. Every human person desires peace and order, freedom, equality, and progress, and the fulfilment of this desire is found in a positive social environment and conditions, which are decreasing day by day owing to prejudice and hatred. As a result, it is critical that we understand one another and build positive interfaith ties. When individuals of various religions look at each other attentively, mutual misunderstandings are dispelled, and many problems are solved. The need is that we offer our point of view with complete honesty, self-confidence, and courtesy and that we also encourage ourselves to listen to others’ differing points of view and form genuine relationships with them. It is envisaged that the work and initiatives of the Bengal Institute of Multicultural Studies will help to create an environment favourable to peaceful coexistence in the country. ---- URL: https://www.newageislam.com/interfaith-dialogue/academic-brotherhood-peace-spirit/d/125850 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism

Lack of Social and Literary Commitment in Contemporary Urdu Literature

By S. Arshad, New Age Islam 26 November 2021 Urdu Speaking Community and Urdu Organizations Need To Take Revolutionary Steps to Stem the Rot Main Points: 1. Committed poets and writers in Urdu are few. 2. Editors like Gopal Mittal, Zubair Razvi, Sajid Rasheed and Shamsur Rahman Faruqi are no more. 3. Today’s Urdu writers have not social and literary commitment. 4. Urdu literature has lost its relevance in the contemporary social milieu. ---- (Representational Photo from Files) ---- Literature is called the mirror of the society. But the purpose of the creation of literature is not merely reflecting the society but also welfare of the society. And human society can progress only when the individuals of the society are developed intellectually, morally and spiritually. Literature not only provides intellectual entertainment to the readers but also makes covert and overt efforts to train the people both intellectually and spiritually. The purpose of literature had begun to come to fore ever since the beginning of the 20th century and the basic problems of the society got importance in literature. Progressive movement made literature an important pillar of the social life on which the grand building of political and social and economic revolution was constructed. The freedom movement contributed to the significance and importance of literature and literature became an effective tool against slavery, exploitation and class tyranny. The writers and poets of that era were had patriots and were ready to make sacrifices for the welfare of the society. Literature, to them, was not merely a means to earn name and fame but a ran in their veins like blood. They were not merely writers and poets but also social activists and literature was a quintessential part of their activism. They not only waged a war against the power that be but also tried to create awareness about social ills. They did not hesitate to make the biggest sacrifice to achieve their social and literary goals. They did not compromise on their principles for personal gains. They led a life of penury but struggled for the economic prosperity of the people. They themselves went to jail but gifted freedom to the people of their country. They renunciated their posts and jobs but did not accept restrictions on their right to expression. Famous poet Josh Mallihabadi wrote a poem on exploitation of peasants and the Nawab of Hyderabad removed him from his job. Munshi Premchand resigned the government job because the British government wanted to censor his writings. Qazi Nazrul Islam abandoned the idea of joining the job of deputy registrar of Bardhaman because while doing government job, he would not be able to join the freedom movement against the Briitish. Hundreds of other poets and writers endured the hardships of incarceration, even accepted the noose for the good of the society. Literature was an effective means of achieving social and communal goals for Maulana Abul Kalam Azad. If he wanted he could lead a life of luxury by being subservient to the British government. Faiz Ahmad Faiz, Bismil Azimabadi, Ashfaqullah Khan Hasrat warsi, Hasrat Mohani and hundreds of other writers and poets adopted literature as a powerful means of achieving their social and political goals and became the victims of the wrath of the government. Even after the independence, the poets and writers of Urdu had a collective sense of responsibility towards their society. They did not compromise on their principles and remained flag bearers of truth. Fiction writer, novelist and journalist Khwaja Ahmad Abbas was a communist but in the preface to Ramanand Sagar’s book “Aur Insan Mar Gaya”, he held also the communists along with the British government and religious and political organizations responsible for the post-independence riots. He was expelled from IPTA and all other communist organizations for this but he stood his ground. Sadat Hasan Manto and Ismat Chughtai invited the wrath of the fundamentalists for his depiction of the social evils and were even dragged to the court but they did not compromise on their literary ideals. (Representational Photo from Files) ---- However, gradually social and literary commitment disappeared from Urdu literature. Urdu writers became sidekicks of the power that be. Poets and writers became hungry for luxuries and government amenities and privileges. Though they praised the acivements of the political parties they were associated with, they did not find the courage to speak out about their wrong policies and mistakes. As a result, their literature became hollow and worthless. It lost its relevance. He standard of research and criticism and creative literature declined drastically. Books were being written only to earn fame and to increase the number of books. Urdu periodicals and magazines, instead of trying to bring reform in literature, became the part of the same literary corruption suffered from ideological bankruptcy. Now, editors like Zubair Razvi, Shamsur Rahman Faruqi, Mahmood Ayaz, Gopal Mittal, Sajid Rasheed are no more. One may disagree with their literary ideologies but their literary commitment cannot be denied. Literature is basically the product of the creative intuition of the writer but when the number of books is made the criterion for academic jobs and the standards of research and creativity is ignored, then literature becomes merely a means of fulfilling economic needs. Under this faulty system, books are published in great numbers. Men and women who cannot write a good article become authors of books mysteriously. Today, writing a good article is difficult but publishing a book is easy. A big underground market of manuscripts has come into existence. Today, Urdu books find very few readers but Urdu books are published almost daily. The ceremony of inauguration of books is held with much fanfare and old and seasoned writers attend those ceremonies and shower praises on the books of budding writers and give the impression that the publication of the book was a historical event. Today, the writers of Urdu have no ideals or social goals. Leave aside having lofy goals like Sir Syed, Allama Iqbal, Maulana Azad, Faiz and Hasrat Mohani, the writers of Urdu are not even attached with the common problems and issues of the people. They do not have the courage to raise their voices against injustice and oppression because the government privileges have more value for them. Before the Partition, the Bengali intellectual Mohammad Naseeruddin published a Bengali literary journal Soughat. He was a flag bearer of women’s education and was against purdah. This antagonized the religious section. He helped the first Muslim graduate woman Fazilatunnisa to go abroad for higher education. For that, the opponents of Muslim women’s education beat him up in the street. Today’s Urdu writer can fight only for Mushairas and can use all his connections to get a government award. Problems of the society do not perturb him. He is happy in his comfort zone. To rid Urdu literature of the mediocrity and ideological bankruptcy, Urdu speaking community need to take revolutionary steps. Quality of research work and not the number of books should be made the criterion for academic excellence. Genuine talent should be promoted and appreciated and Urdu departments of the government should take appropriate measure to clear the mess Urdu language and literature is in. URL: https://www.newageislam.com/islamic-culture/social-liberty-urdu-literature/d/125842 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism

Buddhist Mysticism Influenced Islamic Sufism in a Big Way

Islamic Sufism Borrowed Many Doctrines and Practices from Buddhist Mysticism Main Points: 1. Buddhism influenced Islamic Sufism in a big way 2. Muslim Sufis Hussayn bin Mansoor, Attar and Bayazid Bustami travelled to India. 3. Ibrahim Bin Adham was influenced by Buddhist mysticism. 4. Khanqah originated on the lines of Buddhist Vihars. 5. Spiritual practices of breath control, Chakras and Perfections influenced Sufism. ----- By New Age Islam Staff Writer 25 November 2021 Courtesy: .cilecenter.org ----- Ibn Arabi institutionalized Sufism on the lines of Vendantist philosophy and Buddhist mysticism. Until then, Islamic Sufism meant strict adherence to the Quranic injunctions on purity of heart, piety, love for humanity and abstention from violence and violent religious ideology. Islamic Sufism till the second century Hijra was based on the Quranic principles and hadiths and the stress was laid on Zikr and Tilawat and inner piety. However, after the 3rd century, Islamic Sufism was influenced by the mystic practices of Vedantic philosophy, Buddhism and Nath Panth that emerged during 7th or 8th century AD. This happened due to the interaction of Muslim Sufis with Hindu Vedantic mystics and Buddhist mystics in India and Afghanistan. Ibn Arabi’s Sufi treatise Fususul Hikam was based on a Sanskrit book Amrit Kund on Vedantiic Advaitavad (Monism). Fususul Hikam popularized Advaitavad (Wahdat ul Wujud) among Islamic sufis. The idea of dissolution of self in the Supreme Soul romanticized the mystic circle. Many Sufis of 8th to 12rh century travelled India and Afghanistan including Sindh which was a seat of Buddhism during that age and leant about the mystic practices of involving physical discipline to acquire greater spiritual development. Hussain Bin Mansur Hallaj, Bayazid Bustami and Fariduddin Attar travelled to India were influenced by the Buddhist mystic practices. Hadhrat Junaid Baghdadi was influenced by Buddhist mystic philosophy which brought moderateness in his mystic thinking as Buddhism preached moderate path in religious and social practices. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Also Read: Hinduism, Buddhism and Islam Must Discover Their Spiritual Symbiosis for a Conflict-Free, Environment Conscious World ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- During the middle ages, Buddhism was the dominant religion in the Khorasan and Indian region. Balkh was the centre of Buddhism where famous Sufi Ibrahim bin Adham was based. He had renunciated his kingship and lived the life an ascetic. His story is very similar to that of Gautam Buddha who renunciated the life of a prince and became a mystic. Therefore, Islamic Sufism borrowed many practices and it coined Sufi terms on the basis of Buddhist mysticism. The practice of deep meditation called Muraqba was based on Dhyan of Buddhism. Islamic Sufism borrowed the practice of rosary for Zikr from Buddhism. The tradition of monasteries (Khanqah) originated in Islamic Sufism due to the impact of Buddhism tradition of Buddha VIhars. Since Sufis engages in zikr for the most part of the day and night apart from Quran recitation and prayers, they needed a place where they could sit in seclusion. Therefore, Khanqahs on the lines of Buddhist Vihars flourished in the Islamic world from the third century Hijra. The first Khanqah was built in Ramalla in Syria in the third century hijra. In the Khanqahs, Majlis of Tarana and Sama’ would be regularly held. The rules for becoming a member of a Khanqah were also formulated on the lines of Buddha Vihar. In Buddhist mysticism, a spiritual aspirant had to apply for the membership of the Sangha. After he was granted the membership, he would be able to live in a Vihar. There were Ten Commandments for a spiritual aspirant to follow to be a member of Sangha and live in a Vihar. The Ten Commandments or undertakings were as follows: Ten Commandments of Buddhism for the spiritual aspirants applying for membership of Buddhist Monasteries I swear that I will not kill any living being. I swear that I will not commit theft. I will abstain from uncleanliness. I swear that I will Not consume intoxicants. I swear that I will Not tell a lie. I swear that I will Not eat in forbidden hours. I swear that I will Not indulge in dance, song and music. I swear that I will Not use wide and high cot. I swear that I will Not use scent, oil, ornaments and garlands. I swear that I will Not accept gold or silver from anybody. The spiritual aspirants had to abide by ten rules to enter and live in a Khanqah. Cleanliness of body and clothes. Sitting at home and mosque. Offering prayers in congregation on time. Night prayers (Tahajjud) Istaghfar at morning. Recitation of the Quran in the morning. Darood and Zikr between the prayers of Maghrib and Isha. Taking care of the needs of the needy and the old. Not eating eatables of each other without consent. Not leaving one another without information. Another point of similarity between Islamic Sufism and Buddhist mysticism is the development of ten virtues or spiritual qualities. In Buddhism, they are called Paramita (perfections). The Buddhist mystic needs to develop these ten spiritual perfection in them. They are following: Ten Perfections of Buddhism Generosity Good manners Piety Intuitive wisdom (pragya) Steadfastness Perseverance Truthfulness Endurance Empathy Equanimity Similarly, the Islamic spiritual aspirants also tried to develop ten spiritual virtues (Haal) in them; Meditation Closeness to God Love Fear Hope Compassion Attachment Equanimity Vision Belief According to Buddhist and Hindu Tantra, there are six spiritual chakras in the body. A spiritual aspirant gradually ascends the chakras beginning from the lower chakra to the top chakra. SiX spiritual Chakras in the body in Buddhism Muladhar Chakra Swadhisthan Chakra Manipur Chakra Visuddha Chakra Agya Chakra Sahasrar Chakra Muladhar Chakra is situated at the base of vertebral column where the spiritual power is coiled up like a snake. This is why it is called Kundalini Shakti (serpent power). The spiritual aspirant tries to awaken this spiritual power which after being awakened rise up and crosses through the different chakras reaching the Sahasrar Chakra in the head. At each Chakra, a subtle sound is heard. This sound is called Anahat Nad. In Islamic Sufism. This is called Lataif-e-Sitta (six subtleties) which is an idea borrowed from Buddhist Tantra. These six Lataif are as follows: Latifa-e-Nafs (from Navel) Latifa-e-Qalb (from heart) Latifa-e-Ruh (From the chest) Latifa-e-Sarmahal (From the abdomen) Latifa-e-Khafi (From the forehead) Latifa-e-Akhfa (Skull of the head) At every stage, the aspirant hears a subtle sound of Allah. In Vedic or Hindu Tantra, the aspirant hears the sound of Om at every stage of Chakra. The practice of controlling the breath in Buddhism or Hindu Tantra also influenced Islamic Sufism. The Pranayam of Buddhism or Hindu Tantra was adopted by Islamic Sufis and it was termed Paas-e-Anfas. Rechak and Kumbhak in Islamic Sufism was called Habs-e-Dum and Hasr-e-Nafs. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Also Read: A Rebuttal to the Article ‘Hinduism, Buddhism and Islam Must Discover Their Spiritual Symbiosis for a Conflict-Free, Environment Conscious World' By Sultan Shahin, Editor, New Age Islam ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Buddhism and Vedanta preach dissolution of self in the Supreme Self which leads to Mukti from the cycle of birth and death. Islamic Sufism adopted this doctrine from Buddhism. The Quran does not preach dissolution of self in the Supreme soul and therefore the doctrine of Fana and Baqa was borrowed from Buddhist and Vedantic doctrine of Monism. In Islamic Sufism, the doctrine of Fana and Baqa was introduced by Sufi Abu Sayeed Kharazi of the 3rd century Hijra. Therefore, from the third century onwards, Islamic Sufism emerged as a distinct religious sect and Sufism was institutionalized by Islamic sufis. They formulated rules and doctrines involving stages of spiritual attainment (haal0 and Maqamat, the institution of Murshid and Mureed and the philosophy of Tariqat vis a vis Shariat was discussed. It is due to the influence of Buddhism that the tradition of Tarana and Sama and religious poetry flourished in Islamic Sufism. The Buddhist mystic songs called Charyageet discovered in 1907 by a Bengali litterateur and researcher Dr Harprasad Shastri from the Nepal Durbar Library showed that Buddhist siddhas (accomplished sadhus) composed mystic songs that were sung in accompaniment of musical instruments and dance in the private assemblies of Siddhas. These songs were composed during the 6th and 12th century. Therefore, it can be said that the tradition of Tarana, qawwali and Sama with dance is due to the influence of Buddhist mystic practices. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Also Read: Islam and Buddhism: Integrating the Thought Resources of Prophet Muhammad (Pbuh) and Gautam Buddha in Contemporary Peace Policies ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Therefore, it can also be said that the tradition ofsufi poetry also has its root in Buddhist mystic poetry. The first Arabic Sufi poet was Yahya Maz Razi in the 8th century AD. Junaid Baghdadi was also an Arabic Sufi poet. Ibrahim Ghawwas, Hussain bin Mansur Hallaj and Ibn Arabi also composed Sufi poetry in the 9th and 10th century AD. Inspired by the Arab Sufi poets, Persian poets also started presenting mystic thoughts and subjects in poetry. Maghribi, Jami, Shabistari, Sherazi, Attar and Rumi are some of the sufi poets who lived between 10th and 12th century AD. Buddhism declined after the 12th century before institutionalizing Islamic Sufism in the Indian subcontinent in particular and Muslim world in general. URL: https://www.newageislam.com/interfaith-dialogue/buddhist-mysticism-islamic-sufism/d/125839 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism

Dr. Sahil Bharti Is Right: Terrorism Committed In The Name Of Islam Is A Massive Insult To Islamic Faith

Defending or Supporting Terrorism by Any Means Is Prohibited in Islam Highlights 1. Terrorism committed in the name of Islam is a grave insult to Islam, and Muslims must respond by refuting the terror narratives point by point. 2. Without a question, Muslims throughout the world have spoken out against Jihadist terrorists. However, raising one's voice once or twice is clearly insufficient. 3. Islam urges people to speak up against injustice and evil, as indicated by Quran and Hadith. ...... By Kaniz Fatma, New Age Islam 25 November 2021 A few days ago, newageislam.com published an Urdu post by Dr. Sahil Bharti, in which the writer made some excellent demands of the Muslim community. I'd like to offer some feedback on their points. Dr. Sahil Bharti says, “Terrorism committed in the name of religion is a massive insult to faith. It is the first responsibility of followers of a religion that is being misused for violence to expel perpetrators and supporters of such anti-religious ideas from their ranks and declare social detachment from them, and it is also the responsibility of the government to cooperate in suppressing such concerns over time.” Without a question, Muslims all throughout the world have spoken out against Jihadist terrorists. However, raising one's voice once or twice is insufficient. This is, of course, an issue of law and order. However, we must also consider that terrorist organisations are distorting Islamic material, which may lead to certain people who do not fully comprehend Islam being misled and becoming terrorists or providing Islamic justification for terrorist acts. In terms of indoctrination and mental corruption, terrorist ideologies constitute a threat not just to Muslims but also to non-Muslims who must be living in peace and security with Muslims. For example, when Wasim Rizvi filed a petition challenging the twenty-six verses of the Quran, some non-Muslims were indoctrinated and began blaming the Quran for terrorist activities. This must have made the Jihadists delighted, because they, too, cite the Quran to legitimize their terror activities. Today, the so-called Mujahids of chaotic thinking wear the cloak of Islam. Dr. Bharti correctly adds, “Therefore everyone must be watchful. These terrorists, who are creating havoc in the name of Islam, credit superstitions, as well as violence and devastation, to Islam, despite the fact that Islam is in open conflict with these acts”. Dr. Sahil Bharti continues, “Defending or sheltering such criminals is a crime and a sin, according to the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him). Muslims should report their activities to authorities, preventing criminals from plotting terrorist crimes in the name of Islam, such as suicide bombings or the unjust killing of civilians.” Cooperating with any terrorist organisation is a forbidden act in Islam. The reason for this is that Allah says in the Quran, “And Cooperate in righteousness (birr) and piety (Taqwa), but do not cooperate in sin (Ithm) and transgression (‘Udwan). And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is severe in penalty (5:2)”. In this Quranic verse, Almighty Allah commands Muslims to work together in righteousness, good actions, and avoiding sins. Muslims are forbidden by God Almighty from assisting one another in committing sin or hostility. This divine message is broad in scope and conclusive in its condemnation of participation with terror organisations whose actions are sinful and transgression. It makes no difference whether the terror actions are carried out in Muslim or non-Muslim countries. The Muslim community must take the lead in combating these anti-Islamic acts for the sake of Islam. According to Dr. Bharti, Islam urges people to speak up against injustice and evil, as indicated by a saying of the Holy Prophet which guides that “If any of you see evil, replace him with the power of your hand. Use your tongue if you don’t have this power within you. Even if you don’t have the authority to do so, your heart should deem it bad. And that is the weakest faith” (Sahih Muslim - on the authority of Abi Saeed Al-Khudri). Dr. Bharti concludes by saying that Jihadis, Takfiris, and terrorists are spreading like cancer among Muslims, and these terrorists are destroying the essential purity of the religion. As a result, every Muslim has a responsibility to alert authorities about individuals who commit acts of terrorism or intend to harm the country and nation or try to join their ranks. I agree with the call of Dr. Bharti, and I too believe it is the role of Muslim clergy and intellectuals to reject jihadist terror narratives on a regular basis and safeguard Islam from their grab. --... Urdu Article by Dr. Sahil Bharti: Supporting Terrorists is a Betrayal of Religion دہشت گردوں کی حمایت مذہب سے غداری ہے https://www.newageislam.com/urdu-section/supporting-terrorists-betrayal-religion-/d/122976 URL: https://www.newageislam.com/radical-islamism-jihad/terrorism-insult-islamic-faith/d/125838 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism