Syncretic India: The Twitter Handle That Strengthens Our Belief in the Secular Values and Cultural Diversity of India

Despite rising xenophobia and social crisis, Indians still keep secularism and cultural diversity close to their hearts 1. Indians still have a strong belief in secularism and religious tolerance. 2. Rabindranath Tagore had echoed the Quran when he said that India’s religious and cultural diversity was planned by God. 3. Many Muslims celebrate Hindu festivals and many Hindus fast during the Ramadhan. 4. Western thinkers have expressed surprise over India’s unity in diversity. ------------ New Age Islam Edit Desk 6 February 2022 At a time when religious hatred and xenophobia have caused the social crisis not only in India but around the world, and various communal organisations spread religious and communal hatred, a Twitter handle spreading the idea of Syncretic India and receiving over one hundred thousand visits and retweets surprises many. This hints that though we have been made to believe that secular values are fast receding in the country, the reality is not so much disappointing or grim. People in the country still cherish the moments of solidarity and communal harmony and feel that India can never lose its communal harmony and secular fabric no matter how much the communal forces strive to secure their nefarious goal. This week a Twitter handle #Syncretic India trended with over one thousand tweets stressing and strengthening the idea of Syncretic India and showing through various quotes, happenings, heart touching images and representation of cultural and religious diversity and religious tolerance for a couple of days. That was really refreshing and heart touching. People mentioned incidents where the members of a particular community performed the last rites of the deceased of another religious community. This aspect of syncretic India came into prominence during the height of the pandemic and lockdown when the relatives of several Hindu deceased could not reach the dead due to lockdown restrictions and their Muslim neighbours took up the responsibility of cremations with correct Hindu religious rituals in a number of cases. Another aspect of syncretic India was shown in the fact that in India copies of the Hindu epic Ramayana written in Urdu are still preserved and adored by Hindus. Many Hindu women and men fast during the holy month of Ramzan while many Muslim men and women wear a bindi, take an active part in Hindu festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi. In Kumartuli of Kolkata, many Muslim artisans make images of Durga, Saraswati, Kali and other deities. Secularism is so deeply etched in the psyche of Indians through the aeons that irrespective of political ideology, political leaders like Atal Behari Vajpayee, Narendra Modi along with Pranab Mukherjee and Mahatma Gandhi accept the fact that India cannot exist without secularism. News of Muslim boys dying while saving a Hindu girl or a Hindu boy providing shade to a Muslim boy offering namaz by spreading his saffron robe or Muslim youth providing fruits and refreshes to Hindu pilgrims during a Hindu festival strengthens our resolve to keep India’s secularism alive amid crisis. The great poet and philosopher of India, Rabindranath Tagore goes on to say that India’s secularism was according to the plan of God because if he had willed he would have made India a country of one religion and one culture. Some of the tweets, quotes, images and representations are being reproduced here for our readers. 1. Ramayan in Persian! Our Secular heritage. Let’s not lose our secularism #SyncreticIndia 2. Secularism in in the blood of Indians. We support equality. #SyncreticIndia 3. Our country is divided into religion, cast, creed, colour, language but we together with a thought that we are one, firstly we are citizen of our country. #SyncreticIndia 4. Secularism is not just a word; it is a matter of faith for us Indians! #SyncreticIndia 5. Western dictionaries define secularism as absence of religion but Indian secularism does not mean religiousness. It means profusion of religions. #SyncreticIndia 6. If #India is not a secular nation then India is not India at all. #SyncreticIndia 7. #India is a vibrant nation whose strength lies in its commitment to equal rights & speech, religious freedoms that enrich lives of all citizens. India is not only the world's largest democracy; it is also a secular, pluralistic society. ~ Henry Paulson (Author) #SyncreticIndia 8. Buddha is the crown jewel of India which accepts all ways of worship of all religions. This quality of Hinduism in India was a product of many great spiritual masters chief among them was Buddha. And this is what sustains secular character of India. ~ PM #Modi #SyncreticIndia 9. In Western lands there is a distinct division between the religious and the secular life. This distinction has never found its place in the life of the people of India. There, all of life is included in the word 'religion.' ~ Virchand Gandhi #SyncreticIndia 10. Almost every Indian has a loving Muslim/Christian/Sikh/Buddhist friend/neighbour who has stood by them during troubled hours. Secularism is in our blood. #SyncreticIndia 11. As per the findings of Pew Research Centre, Indians feel they have religious freedom, see respecting all religions as a core value. This is India. #SyncreticIndia 12. Many Sikh (29%), Christian (22%) & Muslim (18%) women in India say they wear a bindi even though bindi has Hindu origins. (Pew Research Centre data) This proves that #India is truly secular and Indian secularism is the fusion of religions rather than separation. #SyncreticIndia 13. In India, 77% Muslims, 77% Hindu and 54% Christians in India believe in karma. (Pew Research Centre data) This proves that #Indians are truly secular and Indian secularism is the fusion of religions rather than separation. #SyncreticIndia 14. India is truly a secular nation and believers of all religions and atheists have a place in this country. #SyncreticIndia 15. India is a country in which every great religion finds a home. ~Annie Besant #SyncreticIndia 16. In the West, #secularism implies pinpricking religious fraud and arrogance, but in India secularists are the most eloquent defenders of myth and theocracy. #SyncreticIndia 17. Indian secularism is the fusion of different religious beliefs, not their separation. #SyncreticIndia 18. A beautiful quote by former Prime Minister of India Atal Bihari Vajpayee ji on Indian secularism #SyncreticIndia 19. Gandhi Ji beautifully explains nuances of secularism, which Indian constitution represents. #SyncreticIndia 20. We are one #SyncreticIndia 21. Unity in Diversity is India’s strength. There is simplicity in every Indian. There is unity in every corner of India, This is our strength. #SyncreticIndia 22. Unity in Diversity. #SyncreticIndia 23. "Our ability to reach unity in diversity will be the beauty and the test of our civilization." #SyncreticIndia 24. #SyncreticIndia 25. "In diversity there is beauty and there is strength." #SyncreticIndia 26. "Our cultural strength has always been derived from our diversity of understanding and experience." #SyncreticIndia 27. "Difference is of the essence of humanity. Difference is an accident of birth and it should therefore never be the source of hatred or conflict. The answer to difference is to respect it. “#SyncreticIndia 28. #SySyncreticIndia 29. A grand synthesis of cultures, religions and languages of the people belonging to different castes and communities has upheld its unity and cohesiveness despite multiple foreign invasions. #SyncreticIndia 30. "We must embrace our differences, even celebrate our diversity. We must glory in the fact that God created each of us as unique human beings. God created us different, but God did not create us for separation." #SyncreticIndia 33. I bow my head in front of shrines because I love my religion & it doesn’t allow insulting any other religion. Religion only tells that if you join your palms it is called worship and if you open it is called Dua. #SyncreticIndia 34. My tribute towards #SyncreticIndia 35. This is really India! And not everything else you hear! #SyncreticIndia 36. Meet Razia who brings in Home Ganpati bappa since she was a child. #SyncreticIndia 37. Still Somewhere Humanity is there!! #SyncreticIndia 38. Somewhere in India, a Temple shares wall with a Mosque! #SyncreticIndia 39. This is the beauty of our #SyncreticIndia 40. A Hindu Sanyasi speaking high about Sikhs & a Sikh Guru speaking high about Hindus. This is the beauty of India. Sikh Namadari community welcomed Mata Peetadipati Sri Sri Shankara Bharati Mahaswamiji to their spiritual headquarters Shri Bahini Sahib in Ludhiana #syncreticIndia 41. isIt is the beauty of #India. External forces are trying desperately to divide us, to break us. But let’s show the world what India is made of. #SyncreticIndia 42. बुराई किसी धर्म पर नहीं होती बुराई तो कुछ इंसान में होती है #SyncreticIndia 43. आज मुझे फिर इस बात का गुमान हो, मस्जिद में भजन मंदिरों में अज़ान हो, खून का रंग फिर एक जैसा हो, तुम मनाओ दिवाली मेरे घर रमजान हो। #SyncreticIndia 44. अब ना मैं हूं ना बाकी है जमाने मेरे l फिर भी मशहूर है शहरों में फसाने मेरे l जिंदगी है तो नए जख्म भी लग जाएंगे l अब भी बाकी है कई दोस्त पुराने मेरे l #SyncreticIndia 45. We are Indians, first and last. Spread your wings and embrace the love of your nation. Happy Republic Day! #SyncreticIndia 46. यही है हमारी संस्कृति, आपसी भाईचारे की आइए सब मिल कर अब मंदिर और मस्जिद के झगड़ो को खत्म करें और साथ मिलकर आपसी सहयोग से अपना और देश का भविष्य बनाएं। मेरा तो बस एक ही है अरमान तिरंगे के नीचे हो सारा हिंदुस्तान #SyncreticIndia 47. Our ability to reach unity in diversity will be the beauty and the test of our civilization. #SyncreticIndia 48. Muslim artisans create Durga puja tableaux is a symbol of love, respect for each other’s culture and traditions. #SyncreticIndia https://youtu.be/b1YIM3gbbDI 49. Muslim bands perform for Hindu Kumbh mela represent one belief in that almighty whom we address by different names. #SyncreticIndia https://youtu.be/yTiLfxlZnak 50. India is known for unity in its diversity and Shiva temple in Assam cared for by Muslim represent the same. #SyncreticIndia https://youtu.be/NEANHq2aFPk 51. Hindu Muslim Unity: Why my Hindu grandfather fasted for Ramadan #SyncreticIndia https://youtu.be/9Ng5ExNaOCs 52. Pune: Masjid and Mandir side by side signify Hindu muslim unity. #SyncreticIndia https://youtu.be/3dDhA7hyxeo 53. Muslim girls chant Sanskrit hymns #SyncreticIndia https://t.co/xIIY5XVa53 54. “If we live in our oneness-heart, we will feel the essence of all religions which is the love of God. Forgiveness, compassion, tolerance, brotherhood and the feeling of oneness are the signs of a true religion.” #SyncreticIndia 55. “As different streams, having their sources in different places, all mingle their water in the sea, so, O Lord, the different paths which men take through different tendencies, various though they appear, crooked or straight, all lead to Thee.” #SyncreticIndia 56. Before becoming a Hindu, a Muslim, a Christian or a Sikh let’s become a human first. #SyncreticIndia 57. An 18th century painting depicting Lord Krishna sighting the Eid moon and pointing it to MUSLIM women and men #SyncreticIndia 58. Architecturally medieval Jali / Latticed screen painted with green & embedded with Saffron & Red thread knots of faith sighted somewhere at Dargah of #Pirankalyar #SyncreticIndia 59. This is the true face of India. Here, every Indian has a caring friend from other religions #SyncreticIndia 60. The Muslim neighbourhood in North Kashmir’s Bandipora helped perform the last rites of an elderly Kashmiri Pandit woman #SyncreticIndia 61. These things can be witnessed only in India #SyncreticIndia 62. Meet Mr. Anil Kumar Chauhan, an artist who had transcended boundaries by painting verses in 100 Hyderabad mosques. #SyncreticIndia 63. In Uttar Pradesh Muslim woman breaks her fast to donate blood to Hindu patient. Humanity is the identity of our country. #SyncreticIndia 64. Lord Krishna is showing Eid moon to Muslims. A Rajasthan artwork. It clearly depicts how deeply rooted Secularism we have in India. #SyncreticIndia 65. Image speaks a thousand words. #SyncreticIndia 66. A goodwill gesture by muslim boatmen by making floating pathway by means of boats for hindu devotees towards popular hindu temple at Jhelum sind river junction #SyncreticIndia 67. These kinds of news makes us feel proud to be Indian! Indians proved their unity in diversity #SyncreticIndia 68. இந்திய மதச்சார்பின்மை என்பது வெவ்வேறு மத நம்பிக்கைகளின் இணைப்பே தவிர, அவற்றின் பிரிவினை அல்ல #SyncreticIndia 69. மத சார்பின்மை என்றால் என்ன என்று நீங்கள் இந்தியாவை பார்த்துதான் கற்று கொள்ள வேண்டும். சகோதரத்துவம் என்பது இந்தியர்களின் இரத்தத்தில் உள்ளது #SyncreticIndia 70. Dr APJ Abdul Kalam was the best example of #SyncreticIndia. https://www.hindustantimes.com/columns/farewell-citizen-kalam-he-symbolised-a-syncretic-india/story-OmXJtrbNWiHfZ6BXiaJTfP.html 71. This happens only in India. #SyncreticIndia. 72. This is India which our heroes dreamt of. The living example of Unity in Diversity. #SyncreticIndia 73. Hindus and Muslims greeting each other on the eve of Ganesh Chaturthi and Moharram. #SyncreticIndia 74. Ancient Buddhist temple at Bakariya Kund - an example of syncretic culture in Varanasi. #SyncreticIndia 75. “Adopting a secular approach, treating all spiritual traditions with respect, has been an exemplary Indian tradition,” His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama of Tibet. #SyncreticIndia These are only some of the images and pictures of the Syncretic India we have built and protected for centuries. It is home to thousands of religious and cultural groups. We hope that this syncretism and cultural and religious diversity will prosper and become richer with time and will remain an example of peaceful coexistence for the entire world. == URL: https://www.newageislam.com/interfaith-dialogue/syncretic-india-twitter-handle-diversity-india/d/126310 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

I am Wajahat Farooq Bhat, Once a Stone-Pelter, I Now Work for a Better Future for Kashmir’s Youth

By Wajahat Farooq Bhat February 05, 2022 How I Overcame Views That Led To Militancy And Secessionism While Hoping For A Brighter Future For Kashmir Main Points · People who live in complex territories like Kashmir evolve with each new reality that emerges day after day. · I am a survivor of a period when the majority of young people are susceptible to ideas that promote militancy and secessionism. · The only ideas that could strike me those days were terror, violence and Azadi. The driver of our imagination happened to be Osama Bin Laden and the Taliban. · In the first few months of 2020, our focus shifted to de-radicalisation and we spread our wings to South Kashmir, particularly Pulwama. ... Hundreds of young people have joined us to take the caravan forward, writes Wajahat Farooq Bhat. Photo Twitter/@jkSYSF ---------- People living in complex territories like Kashmir change with every reality, unfolding day in and day out. I can say those who survive the political ambiguity come to learn about the reality. Political ambiguity, I believe, is the period of stress we occasionally experience in Kashmir; it renders thousands dead, and only a handful of people could live to disclose the reality. It is the time when the majority of young people become prey to ideas that potentially advocate militancy and secessionism. I am a survivor of such a stressful period. I am Wajahat Farooq Bhat, born in a middle-class family in Sheen, Baramulla an area not immune to the infection caused by violence. I graduated from Degree College in Baramulla. Our parents live in a distorted reality; they believe that sending their children outside Jammu and Kashmir may put their lives in trouble; this is a cardinal lie, factually incorrect. As per data, hundreds and thousands of young people choose colleges outside their home state to grab opportunities; they make it to national and international institutions to work in distinguished capacities. But here, most of my classmates joined the local Government Degree College and I followed them, and completed my three-year BA course, with political science as the main discipline. Then, I chose to pursue Masters in Political 0cience. In Baramulla, like in other places in the Valley, Fridays are days to contest the claim of India on Kashmir and ardently raise slogans in favour of Pakistan, considered a sympathiser of Kashmir. A section of disgruntled Kashmiri youth thinks Pakistan may help them force the Indian Army to vacate the land. Therefore, Fridays witness stone-throwing and anti-India drama, a display of vengeance. I had been part of this cohort for a long time. The only ideas that could strike me those days were terror, violence and Azadi. The driver of our imagination happened to be Osama Bin Laden and the Taliban. In our area, all those involved in violent, business-like stone hurling, maintaining proximity with militants and confronting state forces on road would get public attention. Occasionally, the acts of violence would help us feel heroic — no matter who gets hurt or dies on the spot. In 2014, elections were around the corner and political parties were rallying for votes. In the middle of the election season, I along with other co-believers confronted the police vehicles transporting policemen for deployment, for law and order in the town. I threw multiple rounds of stone at them that could have broken the windows of Casspir, the giant vehicle. In the evening, many people sent me appreciation texts; most locals hugged me for the act and discussed me in secret groups. The lack of alternatives and opportunities had made me so rugged that I was struck by the ideas of martyrdom and radical thoughts. In 2015, I joined the NCC in college, a certificate course that people often join to be eligible for reservation in-state job recruitments. Over time, I went to Nagrota military base with other NCC mates, where aspirants attend classes and do some physical drills along the lines of those performed by police and Army personnel. I met people from other states and it proved to be a fruitful interaction. As usual, I argued with people over the unjustified presence of Indian armed forces. People on the other side were patient, they would listen — they gave me enough space to express myself. Their behaviour got me thinking. I left the military base with a fresh perspective. The journey of change started. In 2017, at Showkat Ali Stadium, during a sports festival, I met SSP Imtiyaz Hussain Mir, known for his bravery and hard work. I exchanged ideas with him and I realised he is an officer with whom I can interact freely. In 2018, I founded "Save Youth Save Future (SYSF) Foundation, with barely any support. I began to dream of a better future for the young. I sensed that young people are always told stories of death; I thought I must change their perception. I, therefore, consulted people whom I considered knowledgeable, for ideas. I got some depressing comments and ample positive responses. On February 28, 2018, in a collaborative move, we organised a programme 'The Young Kashmir: The Dialogue Within'. Unexpectedly, the event got a huge response with 400 people participating in it. We had invited people from civil, military and police bureaucracy. A plethora of issues was discussed, grievances were registered and ideas for future course of action were noted by all the administrators present at the event. Hence, the wide gap between people and administration was reduced. In the middle of 2018, in the summer to be precise, our Foundation started a cricket tournament. Along with other achievements, the SYSF Foundation managed to build a representative character. I was assisted in the process by many fellow stone hurlers. In another move, we made a list of local heroes who have made immense contributions in different areas like sports, academics, music etc. For the finale of the North Kashmir cricket championship tournament, a few officials invited as guests assured the youngsters that more tournaments would be held in the future. ... As things moved on, those who believe in violence served me death threats for opening new doors, other than those leading to violence. The online blog 'Kashmir Fight', now known for issuing a list of people to be assassinated in the future, issued threats to me. It was on the directions of the blog that Shujaat Bukhari was assassinated. My natural reaction was frustration and fear. I rushed to the SSP office, briefed SSP Imtiyaz Hussain Mir about the threats. He calmed me down and reassured me no one can kill me if I am not destined to die. The news about threats to my life spread like wildfire, my friends boycotted me, and they feared they could become collateral damage in an attack. In the meantime, I came across Brigadier Girish Kalia. While interacting with him, I got the feeling of talking to a teacher/mentor. I also met Captain Ankur and Major Sushil, my phone calls would matter to them. In 2019, the Foundation in collaboration with locals in Kupwara organised an event on the theme 'Discuss Issues of Kashmir and not the Kashmir Issue: What Next'. In the aftermath of the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A, our Foundation resumed business in November 2019, with a new zeal. The first event was Youth Parliament; it was an open interaction between young people and the people in the system. During the interaction, people discussed ideas and some conspiracy theories spread by the political bosses were also squashed. In the first few months of 2020, our focus shifted to de-radicalisation and we spread our wings to South Kashmir, particularly Pulwama. In 2020, our Foundation gained international character; we were assigned a project by the European Union (EU) to study the trends in radicalisation among young people and how to ensure de-radicalisation. We have a target of 69 workshops on de-radicalisation, with the EU. We have completed 24 workshops so far. In all these workshops, we have been coordinating with former stone hurlers and political rioters. The outcome of these efforts is that we have evolved from a group to a community. Hundreds of young people have joined us to take the caravan forward. I took my volunteers to JNU for a cultural exchange programme where 120 youngsters from the Valley participated. There, they developed friends, contacts and bonds. The interaction exposed them to reality outside Kashmir. The volunteers were called messengers of peace. In 2020, we included women in our Foundation and formed a women's wing. Young women now discuss issues and challenges they face in society. An outreach effort was launched through sporting events. After some time, women's KPL (Kashmir Premier League) was kicked off; women from all districts took part. In 2021, an event was conducted to laud women achievers in society. With time, the scope of activities broadened. In 2021, we carried out loss-and-gain exercises to check how violence has destroyed our social ethos and how Kashmiriyat and Sufism have suffered. We are coordinating with maulvis, imams and Sufi peers to help us revive what we have lost in the backdrop of militancy and separatism. Moreover, our team is active on all social media platforms. In all districts, we have a cluster of offices and 40 office-bearers working to achieve our dynamic objectives. We are collaborating with many organisations, along with EU officials, to determine further courses of action. ... Wajahat Farooq Bhat is Chairman of, the Save Youth Save Future Foundation. He is based in Baramulla, Jammu and Kashmir. The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not represent the stand of this publication. ... Courtesy: Chattan, Srinagar URL: https://www.newageislam.com/islam-politics/wajahat-farooq-bhat-kashmir-youth/d/126307 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

Understanding Syncretic Islam of Kerala from a historical perspective

By Mubashir Vattaparamban, New Age Islam Even Trivial Concession To Religious Communalism Will Wreak Innumerable Havoc Across Kerala • Islam in Kerala has played an indelible role in shaping its economic and social history. • In Kerala, the history of Islam is intrinsically blended with religious harmony and syncretic culture. • Many mosques of Kerala were built with the financial support of Hindu rulers. • Counter radicalization is alarmingly gripping Muslims in the State. …. South Indian Islam is perennially different in contents and practices from its North Indian counterpart. The preaching of Islam by Sufi missionaries and the eclectic nature of social exchanges from the advent of Islam renders South Indian Islam to stand apart from North Indian experiences of Islam which is rather politically mobilized. While North India suffered violent and rash departure from history when Partition forced demographic and religious changes, the South was fortunate to remain shielded from this disaster. Islam in Kerala has played an indelible role in shaping its economic and social history. Islam in Kerala could be geographically located into two; hybrid Muslim Arab settlements in the Malabar region and labour migrant Muslims into Deep South to cash on volatile fortunes after Portuguese forces inaugurated imperial colonialism. But, as noticed by Francis Robinson, both segments of Muslims in the State share identical history and practices with minor regional adaptations. According to Caroline Osella, Islam in Kerala fits into ‘Glocalized Islam’, where sacred universalistic religious practices are integrated into social practices of society and thus new religion serves as continuity without inviting a backlash from other communities. This cultural integration enables delicate intercommunity amity to be revived. Proselytization is done with minimal alterations to cultural and social identities and hence facilitating smooth transaction of society. In North India, Islam more or less served as subservient to the political aspirations of rulers. Political extrapolation of religion often caused ruptures in the society, causing deep antagonism among the people. The fact that religion was a shot in the arm for the medieval rulers without much personal loyalty is glossed over in modern India. When judgments are passed about the Past in the present, it amounts to missing the trees for the forest. But in Kerala, Islam was less associated with political assertion. In the long Kerala Muslim history, only one major Muslim kingdom could rule. And the sole Muslim dynasty itself was the successors of Muslim converts. Throughout history, the Arakkal dynasty followed matriarchy, something antithetical to popular Islam. Islam thrived under Hindu rulers and continued to be a consummate vibrant factor in Kerala. In Kerala, the history of Islam is intrinsically blended with religious harmony and syncretic culture. Hindu population eagerly warmed to the egalitarian precepts of religion. Trade relations nourished the harmonious growth of Islam. “The growth of Islam in Kerala owed much courtesy to the tolerant populace of the time,” says Mujeeb Jaihoon, author of historical fiction about the Mappila community. As a traveller and historian, Mujeeb Jaihoon has documented vividly poignant instances of religious tolerance which helped prosper Islam in Kerala. His book ‘The Cool Breeze From Hind’ is an unputdownable dossier of mutual interactions. While Islam was dreaded as an imperial power in North India, in Kerala the local Hindu rulers persuaded their subjects to convert to Islam, says the author. Zamorins of Kozhikode prevailed upon coast-dwelling people to convert to Islam to supply human resources for the naval fleet fighting Portuguese savages. Many mosques of Kerala were built with the financial support of Hindu rulers. When the missionaries of Malik Dinar band set afoot in Kerala, Chera rulers benevolently donated land and tax-free estate for mosques. Out of the first ten Masjids in Kerala, at least six were constructed with the largesse of the Hindu rulers. “That is why, when North Indian politics is mired ankle-deep in the slugfest of Muslim desecration of temples, Kerala enjoys immunity from temple politics”, proudly boasts Mujeeb Jaihoon. Nevertheless, he is anxious about the quick infection of the communal epidemic in the State too. Besides, the author acknowledges the fact Muslim heroes are revered by the Hindus. The eponymous martyred Kunchali Marakkarand, Kerala Robin Hood Kayamkulam Kochunni is held in high esteem by all. Still, before Hindu devotees proceed to Sabarimala, they venerate Vavaru Swamy, the Muslim confidant of the presiding deity Ayyappan. Darghas have teemed with people across the religious divides seeking temporal largesse. The author highlights the multicultural nature of Nerchas (Uroos) to drive home the importance of cultural assimilation. But the famed religious collaboration is increasingly under peril both from Hindu and Muslim communal forces. The idyllic serenity of religious harmony in the State could be shredded into severe wounds and yawning mistrust lest the State fails to repel the forces of disintegration reminds the author with a pinch of foreboding. Counter radicalization is alarmingly gripping Muslims in the State. Cultural assimilations are denigrated as unlawful accretions in the religion and demand urgent dismissal of such elements and return to sombre monolithic Islam, preached by Salafism. The time is the exceedingly demanding revitalization of the past legacies of cultural exchange. As once Hindus protected Muslim interests, nowadays Muslims are morally bound to sustain delicate religious pluralism. Even trivial concessions to religious communalism will wreak innumerable havoc across the State. ... Mubashir Vattaparamban is a student of Journalism at Indian Institute of Mass Communication, JNU, Delhi ------------ URL: 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

2021, the Repression Year for the Iraqi Kurdistan Journalists

Masrour Barzani, the Nightmare of Journalists By Diary Marif, New Age Islam Main Points · Masrour Barzani’s brutality and hearthstone against his critics, remind people of the miserable days of Saddam Hussein’s era. · Both KDP and PUK used many strategies to silence the journalists, authors and protestors who raised voices against corruption and injustice. · This article discusses only Masrour Barzani’s power to silence journalists. · Masrour Barzani promised to build a strong Kurdistan, carry out reform, and bring all parties to work together but he did the opposite on the ground. · They have to change their brutal strategies otherwise they will have the same fate as Saddam Hussein. .... Since he was sworn as prime minister, the rate of crime and violation against journalists and activists has increased significantly, such as threatening, harassment, arbitrary detaining, torturing, and sentencing behind the bar. His brutality and hearthstone against his critics, remind people of the miserable days of Saddam Hussein’s era. It's been more than 30 years since Iraqi Kurdistan has been run by the two major parties: the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) of Masoud Barzani (1946-?) and the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) of former Iraqi president Jalal Talabani (1933-2017). Both parties used many strategies to silence the journalists, authors, and protesters who raised voices against corruption and injustice. The leaders of the parties are brutal and harsh with journalists and activists. They arrested, tortured, and even killed journalists. Among both the KDP and PUK, the Talabanis and Barzanis have more power than other leaders and control their parties by using security forces to protect their families interests, especially the eldest sons of Jalal Talabani and Masoud Barzani, Bavel Talabani and Masrour Barzani. In this piece, I will discuss only Masrour Barzani’s power to silence journalists because he has held the highest KRG position, his party has more power than other Kurdistan parties, and he has a bad reputation for terrorizing Journalists. Masrour Barzani became the prime minister of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) in July 2019. He promised to build a strong Kurdistan, carry out reform, and bring all parties and all people to work together. Words are cheaper than actions, given that he did the opposite on the ground. He neither did reform nor brought all people together; instead, he put the KRG on the cliff and faced several dire crises in all aspects. He used repression tools and spread fear against his critics, especially towards journalists, activists, and those who raised voices against corruption and inequality. I should mention that the prime minister is not responsible for all crises in Iraqi Kurdistan and did not crackdown on freedom of speech alone as I mentioned above. It has been for more than 30 years, the Kurdish authorities have been involved in corruption, brutalities, and nepotism. However, during Mr. Barzani's power, everything is worse than before because he does not listen to anyone, sees himself above the laws, and doesn't know how to negotiate with his opposite direction. As a result of his authoritarian action, he became a Journalist nightmare and people were disappointed by any change. He has a black chapter of hurting and punishing journalists severely which started many years ago, but one of the most brutal cases he is accused of was the assassination of the young journalist Sardasht Othman who was kidnapped in the Iraqi Kurdistan capital of Erbil and killed in the vicinity of the Iraqi city of Mosul in 2010. Osman was a young journalist who criticized corruption, family rule and nepotism, in several pieces, specifically criticizing the Barzanis. In one of his articles, “I am in Love with Barzani’s Daughter” Osman sarcastically wished to be the son-in-Law of Masrour Barzani, in order to be rich, protected, and have a better lifestyle. The Barzanis thought Osman broke their taboo. Many believe that the current prime minister observed and ordered the process of murdering Osman. Up to now, Mr. Barzani ordered his men to threaten, arrest, and torture journalists and his family’s critics. During his current tenure as prime minister, His Parastine (KDP intelligence agencies) team arrested journalists for writing a comment on social media. They discarded officers who did not vote for their party during the last Iraqi elections. They cracked down the protests. Many journalists and writers fled from Kurdistan to Europe or North America. Another reason he is a journalist’s nightmare is that he was raised in a conservative tribe’s family who cannot accept criticism like his father, Masoud Barzani, who never accepted criticism when he was the president (2005-2017). Masrour Barzani came to power through a robust intelligence background. He was head of KDP intelligence services and before he became PM, he was head of the intelligence of KRG. During exactly 20 years, people nicknamed him after the atrocity son of dictators and authoritarians like Uday Saddam Hussien, Sief-al Islam Gaddafi- son of former Libyan president Muammar Gaddafi and so on. Therefore people did not expect him too much. When he became PM, he allocated most of his cabinet ministers and senior officers who have intelligence backgrounds. Thus, his government does not like journalists and freedom of speech. He ordered all arresting critics, torturing and killing anyone who was against his party and family. Although many people hoped for Mr. Barzani’s reform, he arrested and put around 80 journalists and activists behind the bars in Dohuk province when they demonstrated to stop corruption and demand better public services in 2020. Despite there was a wide range of serious concern and condemnation at national and international levels constantly and demanded to release the victims without any condition, he neglected his all and ordered the Erbil Criminal Court to sentence three journalists: Sherwan Sherwani, Ayaz Karim, and Kohdar Zebari and two activists Mulla Shivan Saeed, and Hariwan Issa for six years in February 2021. All observers throughout the World were shocked by the savage prime minister's decision. He accused the journalists and activists of spying on KRG seniors putting their life at risk, gathering information and passing it to foreign countries such as the USA and Germany. After his repression attitude towards journalists led the foreign observers who had called Iraqi Kurdistan, the beacon of democracy in the Middle East, to rethink and change their minds about it. Besides the shameful actions of Mr. Barzani against the jailed journalists and activists, according to the Metro Center for Jousnalists’s Rights and Advocacy, 353 violations were committed against 250 journalists and media outlets under Mr. Barzani’s regime in 2021. By and large, day by day, the gap between the ordinary people and the prime minister increased obviously. He doesn't try to change the lives of people for the better and does not allow people to talk freely and express their sorrow. He also uses several horrific strategies to silence his critics: social issues. I think he needs to learn the lesson that the most brutal world leaders and presidents could not stop demonstrations, freedom of speech, and journalism, in contrast, they paid the price. I also cannot do it. I'm sure, the Iraqi Kurdish people, especially journalists, will not give up on Masrour Barzani and his father’s evil desires but they have to change their brutal strategies otherwise they will have the same fate as Saddam Hussein. ... Diary Marif is a Kurdish political and non-fiction writer. Marif has an MA in History from Pune University, India. His writing has appeared in the Awene weekly, Lvin, KNN TV, and other media outlets. ----------- URL: https://www.newageislam.com/islam-politics/2021-repression-iraqi-kurdistan-journalists/d/126295 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

Treating the Disease of Selfishness in Islam

Kaniz Fatma, New Age Islam 03 Feb 2022 Respect and Value Others to Avoid Falling Into The Selfishness Trap Highlights 1. Selfishness is a disease that drives a man to the verge of disaster, causing him to destroy both his world and his afterlife. 2. When a person's mind is firmly convinced that he is superior to others, he becomes a victim of selfishness and arrogance, despising, and hating others. 3. The Quran gives the warning to recall your reality and avoid falling into the trap of selfishness. 4. Responding to people's needs and treating them with kindness are examples of behaviour that help people avoid becoming selfish. ... Allah Almighty put the human soul to the test by giving it a tendency for selfishness. Unless someone lives by the moral standards of the Qur'an and tames his earthly desires, this feeling will come to govern his entire moral framework. This type of person is more preoccupied with themselves than with others. He is continually seeking the best, finest, and most faultless of everything for himself. He merely wants material possessions and children, as well as a happy life for his own family. In the face of difficulty, he will urge everyone around him to risk and solve any problem for him, even if it means sacrificing their own interests. He's worried about protecting his own whims and interests, as well as his own ease and pleasure. Selfishness is a disease that drives a man to the verge of disaster, causing him to destroy both his world and his afterlife. Man becomes content with his nafs when he is selfish, and as a result of his satisfaction with himself, he develops many flaws and ailments. A person usually becomes selfish as a result of his activities. He believes that his willpower is involved in carrying out this activity. That is to say, he attributes all positive things to himself, which is simply ignorance. He forgets that not even a single leaf of a tree can be moved without Allah's will in this cosmos. We rely on Allah so much that we can't even breathe without His permission. A person can be affected by selfishness because of his attractiveness, strength, intellect, and intelligence. When a person's mind is firmly convinced that he is better than others, that he is superior, he becomes a victim of selfishness and becomes arrogant, despising, and hating others. Such a person is mentally unsatisfied and quickly descends into depression. If viewed from a worldly perspective, selfishness causes a person to see others as inferior to himself and himself as superior to others. Selfishness in religious things has much more severe consequences. Not only does such a person believe himself to be superior to others, but he also becomes a hypocrite. He begins to credit himself with all of his good fortunes. The drawback is that man, fooled by his own desires, forgets his misdeeds and conducts acts of worship as though he is doing Allah a favour. He then forgets Allah's blessings, which include the power of worship that Allah has bestowed upon him. Allah says in the Quran, “Those who avoid the cardinal sins and lewdness, except that they approached it and refrained; indeed your Lord’s mercy is limitless; He knows you very well – since He has created you from clay, and when you were foetuses in your mothers’ wombs; therefore do not, on your own, claim yourselves to be clean; He well knows who are pious.” (53:52) This verse advises you to praise and thank Allah instead of thinking of yourself as virtuous and pious if you accomplish anything good. There's also a warning to recall your reality and avoid falling into the trap of selfishness to the point of despising others. Believers should be aware that Allah can see the true reality of their lives and the lives of others. Islam cultivates a love of Allah, which is the only way to break the habit of selfishness and acquire characteristics such as compassion, mercy, kindness, helpfulness, and selflessness, which are at the heart of Quranic moral principles. People who fear and love Allah are able to surrender to Him, see the best in everything, and have compassion. Allah displays His love for believers who have a selfless attitude and look after others in the following verses. “They fulfil their pledges and fear a day the evil of which is widespread. And out of His love, they give food to the needy, the orphan and the prisoner. They say to them, “We give you food, only for the sake of Allah – we do not seek any reward or thanks from you.”Indeed we fear from our Lord a day which is extremely bitter, most severe.” So Allah saved them from the evil of that day, and gave them freshness and joy, and gave them Paradise and silk clothes, as a reward for their patience.” (The Quran, 76:7-12) Of course, this may need people to give up things they enjoy or sacrifice their personal comfort. The ethical ideals of the Qur'an confer moral attributes on Muslims who aim to safeguard and watch over the poor by providing alms, helping individuals in need by cancelling debts and spending their wealth on Allah's cause rather than acquiring and hoarding them. Responding to people's needs and treating them with kindness are examples of behaviour that help people avoid becoming selfish. Cruelty and selfishness can be eradicated by empathising with others, showing kindness to those in need, and treating others with respect and love. The following verses demonstrate that the reward for good behaviour is found in Allah's presence: “Worship Allah and do not associate anything with Him. Be good to your parents and relatives and to orphans and the very poor, and to neighbours who are related to you and neighbours who are not related to you, and to companions and travellers and your slaves. Allah does not love anyone vain or boastful.” (Qur’an, 4:36) The egotistical individual becomes consumed with self-praise. He views his opinion to be definitive due to selfishness, and he does not seek counsel from others. To put it another way, selfishness is a terrible disease that has resulted in several disasters and calamities. We should all keep our egos in control. If any sort of selfishness is discovered, we should seek treatment from a reformer as soon as practicable, because sorrow will be invaluable on the Day of Judgment. We should strive for self-improvement today and work hard because every soul will have to face death at some point. The teachings of Islam encourage us to be modest and unselfish toward others, and this is the most reliable way to bring harmony to society. Obviously, a person who practises humility and modesty will not contract the disease of selfishness. Unwanted remarks and nonsense will have no effect on him. Similarly, a person who values others, respects others, and takes care of others will naturally be free of the disease of selfishness, and good deeds will follow. URL: https://www.newageislam.com/islam-spiritualism/treating-selfishness-islam/d/126294 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 Verses of Jihad in Quran Meaning, Reason of Revelation, Context, and Background – Concluding Part 16

By Badruddoja Razvi Misbahi, New Age Islam (Translated from Urdu by Newageislam.com) 2 February 2022 Explaining Verses 5:14 Out Of 26 Verses Presented By Wasim Rizvi In Supreme Court Main Points Discussed In Part 16 1. The verse 5:14 describes that the Christians, like Jews, entered into a covenant with Allah that they would believe in Allah and His Messenger. 2. But, like the Jews, the Christians disregarded the covenant made with Allah Almighty and pursued their own desires. 3. This resulted in “enmity and hatred among them”, which alludes to factionalism or sectarianism within the Christian community or to hatred between the Jews and Christians. 4. Breaking or failing to comply with a covenant between states is seen as the worst crime, leading to economic blockade and war, in today’s world. 5. One should understand 5:14 in the same context, believing that the Quran is Allah's book, which cannot be distorted. ... “And from those who say, "We are Christians" We took their covenant, but they forgot a portion of that of which they were reminded. So We caused among them animosity and hatred until the Day of Resurrection, and Allah will soon inform them of what they were doing.” (Surah Al-Maidah, 5:14) In this verse, after describing the Jews’ breach of covenant and ugly characteristics, Allah Almighty describes the evil deeds and actions of the Christians, as well as their disgusting characteristics. The Jews had promised Allah [the Blessed and Exalted] that they would believe in Allah, His Prophets and Messengers and execute His commands, but they had broken that promise. They not only rejected but also slaughtered many prophets who came after Moses [peace be upon them]. The praises and traits of the Holy Prophet [peace be upon him] were described in the Torah, but they twisted these words of Torah. They were commanded to believe in the last prophet when he was sent, according to the Torah, but they disbelieved him. They not only disbelieved but also disseminated a labyrinth of clandestine intrigues against the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him). In verse 14 of Surah Al-Maidah, Allah Almighty says that the Christians, like Israelites/Jews, entered into a covenant with Allah that they would believe in Allah and His Messenger and would not avoid doing good deeds. One of the interpretative statements is that Allah Almighty promised them in the Gospel that they would believe in the last Prophet Muhammad [peace be upon him]. But, like the Jews, they disregarded this covenant and pursued their own desires. This resulted in “enmity and hatred among them”, which alludes to factionalism or sectarianism within the Christian community or to hatred between the Jews and Christians. That is, Allah created enmity within the Christian community till the Day of Resurrection or hatred between the Jews and the Christians. This resulted in “animosity and hatred among them,” a reference to sectarianism or factionalism within the Christian community, or to hatred between Jews and Christians. That is, Allah created animosity inside the Christian community, or hatred between Jews and Christians, until the Day of Resurrection. And at the end of the verse, Allah Almighty made a strong promise to them and said, “and Allah will soon inform them of what they were doing”. That is, ‘we will punish them severely for violating this covenant and for forgetting the advice.’ And Allah has pointed out in the beginning of the verse [And from those who say, "We are Christians"] that they will happily call themselves Christians (Ansarullah) which has nothing to do with reality. Because if these people had been truthful in their claim, they would have remained steadfast in obedience to Allah Almighty and obedience to His commands and would not forget the covenant made with Him, but they disregarded this pact. In today's world, we can see that breaking the covenant and abrogating or failing to comply with a treaty between states is seen as the worst crime, leading to economic blockade and war. Similarly, when a state-citizen agreement isn't carried out, the issue of law and order arises, and the dominant side seeks to eliminate the defeated, which might result in imprisonment and death. In the same context, one should read and understand Surah Al-Maidah verse 14 and the verses before it, believing that the Quran is Allah's book and His words, which cannot be altered, distorted, or adulterated, and that this holy Book is the book of guidance and well-being for people till the end of time. [Concluded] [Author’s Note: The process of understanding the prescribed 26 verses of Jihad and non-Jihad has been accomplished by the grace of Almighty, with the release of the concluding part (16) of the series. It is recommended that these episodes be revised and published in book form in the three major languages spoken in the country: Urdu, Hindi, and English so that a great number of people can benefit. It should be made clear to the brothers of the country [India] that the Qur'an is a messenger of peace and order, not a preacher of hatred and fear.] ... Maulana Badruddoja Razvi Misbahi, Principal of Madrasa Arabia Ashrafia Zia-ul-Uloom Khairabad, District Mau, UP (India) is a Sufi-minded, well-mannered, classical Islamic scholar, an expert teacher, an excellent writer, a good poet and orator. He has authored numerous books, some of which are as follows: 1) Fazilat-e-Ramazan, 2) Zad-ul-Haramain, 3) Mukhzin-e-Tib, 4) Tauzeehat-e-Ahsan, the commentary on the well-known logical book “Mulla Hasan” 5) Muhazarat fi Halle Qutbi Tasawwurat, 6) Tahzib al-Faraid commentary on “Sharh al-Aqaid”, 7) Atayib al-Tahani fi Halle Mukhtasar al-Ma’ani, 8) Commentary on Sahih Muslim Other Parts Of The Articles: The Verses of Jihad: Meaning, Denotation, Reason of Revelation and Background- Part 1 The Verses of Jihad: Meaning, Denotation, Reason of Revelation and Background- Part 2 The Verses of Jihad: Meaning, Denotation, Reason of Revelation and Background- Part 3 The Verses of Jihad- Meaning, Denotation, Reason of Revelation and Background- Part 4 The Verses of Jihad in The Quran - Meaning, Denotation, Reason of Revelation and Background - Part 5 The Verses of Jihad in The Quran - Meaning, Denotation, Reason of Revelation and Background - Part 6 The Verses of Jihad in Quran: Meaning, Reason of Revelation, Context and Background - Part 7 The Verses of Jihad in Quran: Meaning, Reason of Revelation, Context and Background - Part 8 The Verses of Jihad in Quran: Meaning, Reason of Revelation, Context and Background - Part 9 The Verses of Jihad in Quran: Meaning, Reason of Revelation, Context and Background - Part 10 The Verses of Jihad in Quran: Meaning, Reason of Revelation, Context and Background - Part 11 The Verses Of Jihad In Quran: Meaning, Reason Of Revelation, Context, And Background - Part 12 The Verses of Jihad in Quran: Meaning, Reason of Revelation, Context, and Background - Part 13 The Verses Of Jihad In Quran: Meaning, Reason Of Revelation, Context, And Background - Part 14 The Verses of Jihad in Quran: Meaning, Reason of Revelation, Context, and Background - Part 15 URL: https://www.newageislam.com/debating-islam/verses-jihad-quran-revelation-concluding-part-16/d/126287 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

Hijab, Muslim Women and the Question of Choice

By Arshad Alam, New Age Islam 2 February 2022 Many Muslim Women Reject The Hijab As An Imposition Of Antediluvian Religious Morality Main Points: 1. Through the World Hijab Day, the veil is being promoted as a question of choice and freedom. 2. The event has support of various Islamist organizations. 3. Secular reasons in favour of the hijab are now being adduced which are all bogus. 4. The prime reason for the adoption of the veil is religious as it is commanded in the scriptures. 5. And the scriptures do not mention the veil in relation to freedom or choice. 6. It is good that such events are now being resisted by Muslim women themselves. ------ February the 1st is promoted as the World Hijab Day by groups of Muslim women. Initially, the location of such women was in a couple of western countries but now the ‘movement’ has acquired a global momentum with women from the Muslim south also participating enthusiastically in the event. For diasporic women, the impulse seemed to be to normalize the hijab within western countries. They argued that women’s bodies should not be policed: that wherein there was a lot of pressure on European and American women to look and dress in a ‘particular way’ but then this desire to conform to the male gaze was never being questioned as an imposition. So, if women were free to choose the bikini, they should also be free to don the veil. The veil, therefore, got promoted as a question of exercising choice over Muslim women’s bodies. The numbers that were advocating for the veil was a miniscule fraction of Muslim women living in the west. Most ignored the calls or were indifferent to it. But the matter did not rest there. Today the event draws thousands of Muslim women advocating the use of veil by positing it as choice and freedom. But that’s not all; the event now extends to non-Muslim women too with Muslims inviting them to experience the ‘freedom’ that comes along with the veil. Today the event cannot be said to be a quaint little affair which earlier invoked a quaint curiosity but is now fed by multiple Islamic and Islamist organizations across the globe who want to promote the “Muslim way of life”. And they think that the best possible way to showcase this particular way of life is through the veil. Like any right-wing movement, Islamism also targets women’s bodies and movements to promulgate their vision of society. There are a number of reasons which are adduced in favour of the veil. All of them are bogus and do not stand to scrutiny. It is said that the veil lends respect and honor to women by marking them off as someone to be “protected”. On certain Arabic channels, it is not unusual for men to compare unveiled women to naked “pieces of meat”. Veiled women are compared to “precious fruits” while unveiled women are those who have no “value”. But as we can notice, this conversation, which mostly excludes female voices, is basically about a particular fantasy of Muslim men rather than about protecting women. Women are desirable only to the extent that they remain the absolute sexual property of men; therefore only “they” should see the women according to their desire. What escapes the minds of these gentlemen that the way in which they are looking at women is itself problematic. Women do not need to be covered up in order to respected and honoured. For that to happen, she just needs to be treated as a fellow and equal human being. It is not the veil which gives women honour; rather those societies which enforce the veil or burqa also happen to be the most regressive countries. Another argument that is given in favour of the veil is that it protects women from unwanted male attention and hence is a deterrent against sexual violence. This kind of reasoning again puts the blame on the victim. Rather than reforming men, it in fact argues that women invite violence on themselves by being unveiled. Moreover, there is no evidence to prove that in societies which enforce the veil or the burqa, there are negligible instances of violence against women. In fact, the obverse may be true. Violence is so endemic in such places that women lack the courage to report such instances otherwise they themselves become the object of ridicule and harassment. Such arguments in defence of the veil therefore lack any substance. Instead of saying clearly and expressly that veil is a commandment of the Islamic religion, Muslims are trying to find secular reasons to justify it. But it just doesn’t convince anyone. That the veil is commanded in the Quran can be gleaned from the following verse: “And tell the believing women that they should lower their glances, guard their private parts and not display their charms beyond what is acceptable to reveal; they should let their headscarves fall to cover their necklines and not reveal their charms except to their husband, father, husband’s father, son, husband’s son, slaves, male attendants who have no sexual desire or children unaware of a women’s nudity; they must not stamp feet to draw attention to any hidden charm.” (Q 24:31) It is clear from the above verse that women are expected to be “modest” in Islam and the prescribed way for doing so is to put on the veil. What is also apparent from the verse and many of the hadiths is that women are considered as the source of male temptation; that it is they who through their charm entice Muslim men. And according to the writers of the scriptures, the best way to curb such temptation was to cover up women. What is the fault of Ashraf Ali Thanwi when he advises Muslim women in his Beheshti Zewar to talk in hushed tone so that their voices are not heard by unrelated men and become a cause of temptation! For this is what the standard Islamic tradition thinks of women: as someone without any individuality and agency whose sole purpose is to please men and procreate. The very fact that Islamic jurisprudence considers the testimony of two women as equal to one man proves that the religion treats them as deficient and inferior to men. Coming from such a theological context, the argument that hijab is freedom and choice does not seem convincing at all. Moreover, all such women and allied organizations never argue that Muslims should also have the freedom and choice not to wear the veil. There is all round silence from such groups when the veil is forced by Islamic regimes in Saudi Arabia, Afghanistan, Iran and Aceh. It is heartening that Muslim women are themselves resisting such characterization of the veil and rejecting it as a fabric of oppression and imposition. In contrast to the ‘World Hijab Day’, we now also have ‘No Hijab Day’ which highlights how this piece of garment has become synonymous with the docility and sexualisation of Muslim women. It is very convenient for Muslim women located in the west to fetishize and celebrate the hijab; but a very different story in the global south where hijab and purdah have become synonymous with masculine Islamist violence. ----- A regular columnist with NewAgeIslam.com, Arshad Alam is a writer and researcher on Islam and Muslims in South Asia. URL: 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 the Significance of Ilm al-Tazkiyyah, Science of Self-Purification in Islam?

Self-Purification Is An Outstanding Achievement For Which God Almighty Has Honoured And Awarded His Slaves Highlights 1. One of the five tasks of the Prophethood specified by Allah Almighty is self-purification. 2. The Sufi purification focuses on reducing the lowly desires of the Nafs, breaking its rule over the body and replacing it with the dominion of the spirit. 3. Islam advocates moderation in all states and acts and forbids exaggeration in any form. 4. When one does not damage anyone, is never offended by anyone, and always puts the Lord's joy above everything else, this is a sign of good self-purification. ... By Kaniz Fatma, New Age Islam 1 February 2022 (Photo: Seeds of Guidance) ----- One of the five tasks of the Prophethood of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) specified by Allah Almighty is self-purification. Self-purification in the spiritual context of Islam means removing the natural dominance of evil in the human soul and purifying it from the pollutions and impurities of sins that hinder spiritual growth. Self-purification is the process of overcoming all of these wicked desires both externally and inside. God Almighty says in the Quran, “Just as We have sent among you a messenger from yourselves reciting to you Our verses and purifying you and teaching you the Book and wisdom and teaching you that which you did not know.” (2:151) Commenting on the verse above, the commentators of the Quran have explained that the reciting of Qur'anic verses and the teaching of the Qur'an, as well as the teaching of wisdom and the mysteries of the cosmos, are topics related to the outer norms and acts of Sharia, whereas the cleansing of the soul is tied to the inward spiritual training. Self-purification is the word to denote this spiritual training that reforms men both outwardly and inwardly. In the verse above, the divine words “teaching you that which you did not know” indicate that there are some mysteries and secrets beyond the outward teachings and knowledge of the Qur'an. Ilmu Ladunni, Ilmul Marifat, and Ilmul Haqiqat are the names of these teachings. The Quranic phrase ‘Wa Allamnaahu Min Ladunna Ilman’ (Urdu, Ilme Ladunni) refers to knowledge that comes directly from Allah into the hearts of the Prophets and saints. lmul Marifat is mystical intuitive knowledge of spiritual truth gained via ecstatic experiences in accordance with the texts of the Quran and Sunnah. Ilm-ul-Haqiqat literally translates to “Truth Knowledge.” So these were the mysterious disciplines that no one had ever heard of before. But it was also Prophethood's responsibility to reveal these spiritual sciences and cognitions to truth mystics. Ilmu Ladunni and Ilmul Haqiqat are two terms used in the Qur'an to express the spiritual understanding that allows a person to gain knowledge and understanding of his Lord. “Wa Allamnaahu Min Ladunna Ilman,” says Almighty Allah, “to whom We had bestowed knowledge [of inspiration and mysteries originating] from Ourselves.” (18:65). Ilmu Ladunni and Ilmul Haqiqat are the names given to this knowledge. God Almighty says, “He has certainly succeeded who purifies himself” (87:14). He Almighty also says, “He has succeeded who purifies it, And he has failed who instils it [with corruption].” (91:9-10) Self-purification is an outstanding achievement for which God Almighty has honoured and awarded His slaves. A successful self-purification process increases a believer's faith by purifying him of unbelief, ignorance, evil ideas, erroneous convictions, and immorality. This process culminates in the installation of positive religious and moral traits in the Nafs [a believing soul], such as sound belief, knowledge, gnosis, wisdom, and spirituality. The Sufi purification focuses on reducing the lowly desires of the Nafs, breaking its rule over the body and replacing it with the dominion of the spirit. This can only happen via abstinence practises that develop the willpower against the lower self, which entails strong self-discipline in the areas of food, sleep, and speech. Sufism offers the means for training the soul through three interwoven concepts: Qillatu't-Taam (little food), Qillatu'l-Manam (little sleep), and Qillatu'l-Kalam (little speech). These commandments are the first stages in gaining spiritual power over the Nafs. It is also important to remember that a wayfarer should not overdo the application of these guidelines. Because the Almighty has entrusted us with our bodies, we must remember the importance of treating them with respect. To put it another way, while purifying the lower self, a servant should avoid excess in any direction. He should not overdo spiritual activities in the name of ultimate self-control, because Islam advocates moderation in all states and acts and forbids exaggeration in any form. Furthermore, religion does neither need nor allow for the complete abolition of the self. Instead, a believer must purify himself by taming and training his will so that it obeys Divine precepts. Purification, as well as the teachings of the Book and Wisdom, is mentioned in the Quranic verses. This fact suggests that persons with un-purified Nafs are unable to obtain an actual understanding of things, particularly the Quran. Even if they have a small amount of knowledge, it will be of no use to them. Because wisdom and knowledge are so valuable that they don't live in ordinary places. All forms of worthless and dangerous grimes must be cleansed from a heart that is designed to become a home for knowledge and wisdom. As a result, prophets delivered Divine signs first and then cleansed the hearts of those to whom they had delivered the signs. Prophets only taught the Book and Wisdom to people who had completed the process of spiritual purification. Only those who had cleaned their hearts in the manner described could gradually unlock the secrets of the universe. Those with such spirits even became wellsprings of wisdom in their own right. The sign of a successful self-purification is when one starts performing acts of worship in the proper ways and doing all his good deeds only for the pleasure of Lord Almighty. as a result, his heart becomes sound and healthy, focusing on three characteristics: (1) he does not harm anyone, (2) he is never offended by anyone, and (3) he always prioritises the Lord's joy above everything else. ----- Kaniz Fatma is a classic Islamic scholar and a regular columnist for New Age Islam. URL: https://www.newageislam.com/islam-spiritualism/ilm-al-tazkiyyah-science-self-purification/d/126280 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 Verses of Jihad in Quran: Meaning, Reason of Revelation, Context, and Background - Part 15

By Badruddoja Razvi Misbahi, New Age Islam (Translated from Urdu by Newageislam.com) 31 January 2022 Explaining Verses 8:65 and 66:9 Out Of 26 Verses Presented By Wasim Rizvi In Supreme Court Main Points Discussed In Part 15 1. Surah Anfal and Surah Tahrim were revealed at Madinah during a period when Makkan polytheists and infidels continued to persecute Muslims. 2. Muslims had been commanded in the Quranic verses not to initiate war against any nation. 3. You'll discover that the Prophet of Islam fought in defence in every war from Badr to Tabuk if you look at Ghazawat or Saraya. 4. Anti-Islamic elements overlook several verses and Ahadith that prohibit Muslims from unlawful war, killing and oppression, and choose only verses that appear to be weaponry for them. ... Allah Almighty says, [the meaning of the Arabic text]: “O Prophet, urge the believers to battle. If there are among you twenty [who are] steadfast, they will overcome two hundred. And if there are among you one hundred [who are] steadfast, they will overcome a thousand of those who have disbelieved because they are a people who do not understand.” (Surah Anfal, 8:65) “O Prophet, strive against the disbelievers and the hypocrites and be harsh upon them. And their refuge is Hell, and wretched is the destination.” (Surah Tahrim, 66:9) Surah Anfal and Surah Tahrim were revealed at Madinah during a period when Makkan polytheists and infidels continued to persecute Muslims. Because of the horrific acts committed by the Makkans, Allah's Messenger (peace be upon him) and his companions migrated to Madinah to carry out the duty of Da'wah in peace and contentment. Even here, though, they were vulnerable to the plots of the disbelievers and the Makkan Quraysh. The Quraysh first plotted with Abdullah bin Ubay and the men who were not yet believers. The Quraysh wrote to them, “Take away the man whom you have protected, or else we will demolish you and wipe your mark.” They failed because of the Holy Prophet's (peace be upon him) prophetic insight and discernment. The Quraysh, on the other hand, did not halt their attacks. When Ibn Ubay's assistance was insufficient, they began seeking assistance from the Jews of Madinah, eventually taking them with them and sending a message to Muslims through them, saying, “Don't get caught up in any misunderstanding by safely leaving Makkah; we will make the land of Madinah too narrow for you and will not leave you under any circumstances.” Even the land of Madinah did not remain peaceful for the Muslims in the early days due to their evil activities. The Holy Prophet (peace be upon him) was known for staying up late at night. According to a narration recorded in Sahih Bukhari, he said, “Tonight, a virtuous man would guard!” Hazrat Saad bin Abi Waqas stood up all night and guarded it and then he rested. In such a dire situation, the Messenger of Allah had three options: (1) abandoning the truth and the call to the truth, (2) enduring oppression and violence by sticking to the truth and allowing his companions to be killed, or (3) fighting oppression and violence with courage and defending against the Quraysh of Makkah and leaving the outcome to God Almighty. After much contemplation, he decided on the third option. As a consequence, the truth triumphed, and the oppressors were permanently gone. If you look at the Islamic wars of the Prophet's time, whether they were Ghazawat or Saraya, you'll notice that the Prophet of Islam fought in defence in every single one of them, from Badr to Tabuk. This was due to the fact that Islam never accepts injustice. Everyone, however, has the right to self-defence. The Holy Quran provides some proof for this: “Fight in the way of Allah those who fight you but do not transgress. Indeed. Allah does not like transgressors.” (2:190) “Invite to the way of your Lord with wisdom and good instruction, and argue with them in a way that is best. Indeed, your Lord is most knowing of who has strayed from His way, and He is most knowing of who is [rightly] guided.” (16:125) “But if they fight you, then kill them.” (2:191) “And if you punish [an enemy, O believers], punish with an equivalent of that with which you were harmed. But if you are patient - it is better for those who are patient.” (16:126) “And if they incline to peace, then incline to it [also] and rely upon Allah. Indeed, it is He who is the Hearing, the Knowing.” (8:61) “...And do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. “ (5:8) Muslims were commanded in all of these verses not to initiate war against any nation. If someone is fighting against you, though, you can defend yourself by fighting back. Even in this circumstance, however, it has been highlighted that Muslims should not engage in any form of aggression, such as murdering, fighting, or beating, and that all requirements of justice should be met. The Holy Prophet (peace be upon him) specifically prohibited women, children, the old, and monks from being killed in battle. Hazrat Ibn Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated that if a woman was found killed in a Jihad [by war], then the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) condemned the killing of women and children. (Sahih Muslim, Book of Jihad, Chapter on Prohibition of Killing Women and Children) Similarly, it is narrated by Anas (may Allah be pleased with him) that the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said, “And do not kill the very old, nor the child nor the woman” (Abu Dawud, vol. 1, p.351) Even the desire to fight the enemy is forbidden in the Ahadith. Hazrat Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him) says that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “Do not desire to face the enemy and remain steadfast when you are confronted with them” (Sahih Muslim, Book of Jihad) There are numerous verses and Ahadith that prohibit Muslims from killing without justification, fighting, and unlawful oppression and violence, but anti-Islamic elements ignore all of them. They only select verses that appear to be weaponry for them. They attempt to taint the environment of the country and instigate the brothers of the homeland against Islam and Muslims by presenting these verses without comprehending their genuine meaning and significance. Wasim Rizvi’s writ was dismissed and he was punished by the Supreme Court, which stated that no one will be permitted to destroy the Ganga-Jamuni civilization of the country. The Supreme Court merits praise and congratulations for this. Surah Anfal verse 65, as well as those verses before and after it, including Surah Tahrim verse 9, should all be viewed and interpreted in this context. In the year 2 AH, Islam entered a new era. Angry at the oppressors, the Muslims picked up the sword to defend themselves, despite their little numbers. As a result, the Battle of Badr was fought. However, there was no power balance between the two parties in this war. With a thousand infantry and a hundred cavalry, the Quraysh army was formidable. On the other hand, there were only 313 persons in all, sixty of whom were Muhajireen and the rest Ansar (History of Islam). The Quraysh possessed all of the essential weaponry and equipment. Muslims, on the other hand, looked to God for assistance. When the Muslims learned of the Quraysh army's movement and their large contingent, they must have known their weaknesses against them, as the Quraysh army had 313 men in total, while their opponents had over a thousand soldiers armed with weapons and ammunition. On this occasion, Allah, the Blessed and Exalted, commanded His Prophet to exhort the Muslims to persevere and provoke them to fight the enemy with all their might, telling them not to be alarmed by a large number of the enemy, but to fight them with full courage and faith, telling them that if they are in the number of twenty, they will overcome two hundred enemies, and if they are in the number of one hundred, they will overcome a thousand enemies. That means, if a Muslim confronts the enemy with patience, courage, and perseverance, he will be heavier than 10 infidels! It is still the practice of Military generals to inculcate the spirit, motivate, and encourage their troops to battle the adversary with patience and commitment, regardless of scarcity or abundance. Will governments throughout the world support a military commander who instils cowardice in his troops, encourages them to surrender in the face of an enemy, and then surrenders without a fight? Definitely not. In this light, Surah Anfal verse 65 should also be understood. Such teachings were given to the goat herders and camel herders through the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him), which made them rise like storms and spread all over the world. Surah Tahrim verse 9 was likewise revealed during the early days of the Muslim migration to Madinah when the Muslims were facing both external and internal foes. On the one hand, the blatant opponents of Islam bothered Muslims with their malicious activities and conspiracies every day. On the other hand, their hidden enemy Abdullah b. Ubay and his supporters, who appeared to be with the Muslims but were actually allies of the Quraysh of Makkah and had joined them, did not miss any opportunity to cause problems for the Muslims. You can imagine the conspiracies of the hypocrites when the battle of Uhud took place and the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him) decided to go out of the city to fight the enemy on the advice of a large number of young companions. And when he arrived at the predetermined location with the Islamic army, Abdullah b. Ubay [a hypocrite] fled with his three hundred soldiers, claiming that he could not join because the war was not conducted in Madinah. Due to Ibn Ubay's deception at the crucial time, the Muslims, who were already small in number, became even less, with only seven hundred remaining. As a result, the Muslims had to battle the enemy on both the exterior and internal fronts during the early months and years of the migration. In these circumstances, Allah, the Blessed and Exalted, commanded His Prophet (peace be upon him) to fight sword jihad against open adversaries who were planning to fight and kill. He told his loving Prophet to persuade the hypocrites to adopt the truth through arguments, or admonish and direct them to the correct path, or uncover their secrets and ill practices, and deal sternly with both of them so that their authority is broken and Islam obtains authority. (See Tafsir Kabir under Surah Tahrim 66, verse 9) Other Parts Of The Articles: The Verses of Jihad: Meaning, Denotation, Reason of Revelation and Background- Part 1 The Verses of Jihad: Meaning, Denotation, Reason of Revelation and Background- Part 2 The Verses of Jihad: Meaning, Denotation, Reason of Revelation and Background- Part 3 The Verses of Jihad- Meaning, Denotation, Reason of Revelation and Background- Part 4 The Verses of Jihad in The Quran - Meaning, Denotation, Reason of Revelation and Background - Part 5 The Verses of Jihad in The Quran - Meaning, Denotation, Reason of Revelation and Background - Part 6 The Verses of Jihad in Quran: Meaning, Reason of Revelation, Context and Background - Part 7 The Verses of Jihad in Quran: Meaning, Reason of Revelation, Context and Background - Part 8 The Verses of Jihad in Quran: Meaning, Reason of Revelation, Context and Background - Part 9 The Verses of Jihad in Quran: Meaning, Reason of Revelation, Context and Background - Part 10 The Verses of Jihad in Quran: Meaning, Reason of Revelation, Context and Background - Part 11 The Verses Of Jihad In Quran: Meaning, Reason Of Revelation, Context, And Background - Part 12 The Verses of Jihad in Quran: Meaning, Reason of Revelation, Context, and Background - Part 13 The Verses Of Jihad In Quran: Meaning, Reason Of Revelation, Context, And Background - Part 14 ---- Maulana Badruddoja Razvi Misbahi, Principal of Madrasa Arabia Ashrafia Zia-ul-Uloom Khairabad, District Mau, UP (India) is a Sufi-minded, well-mannered, classical Islamic scholar, an expert teacher, an excellent writer, a good poet and orator. He has authored numerous books, some of which are as follows: 1) Fazilat-e-Ramazan, 2) Zad-ul-Haramain, 3) Mukhzin-e-Tib, 4) Tauzeehat-e-Ahsan, the commentary on the well-known logical book “Mulla Hasan” 5) Muhazarat fi Halle Qutbi Tasawwurat, 6) Tahzib al-Faraid commentary on “Sharh al-Aqaid”, 7) Atayib al-Tahani fi Halle Mukhtasar al-Ma’ani, 8) Commentary on Sahih Muslim URL: https://www.newageislam.com/debating-islam/verses-jihad-quran-revelation-part-15/d/126272 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

Why Is Iran Afraid Of Its Women Who Fight For Human Rights And Rights Of Women?

Many Muslim Countries Persecute Human Rights Activists Though They Claim To Follow Democratic Values Intro: 1. Iran has a long record of persecuting Human Rights activists 2. Nargis Mohammadi has been sentenced to 8 years in jail and 70 flogging 3. Earlier she served a five years sentence. 4. A number of Iranian rights activists have been arrested and jailed by authorities in Iran. ---- By New Age Islam Staff Writer 29 January 2022 The UN has singled out Iran for discrimination against women, so why is it elected to the main UN body dedicated to gender equality? EPA/Stefan Zaklin ----- The sentencing of Nargis Mohammadi, a rights activist and colleague of Nobel Peace Prize winner rights activist of Iran Shirin Ebadi by an Iranina court to 8 years of prison and 70 floggings once again shows the poor track record of Iran and other Muslim countries on rights front. Nargis Mohammadi was sentenced to 8 years prison only after a 5 minutes hearing. This shows the farcical judicial process while dealing with human rights issues. Nargis has been an eyesore of the Iranian government for years as she has been working with exiled human rights activist Shirin Ebadi who was persecuted by Iran government. In 2016, she had been sentenced to 5 years prison for expressing her views against death penalty and her stand against prison authorities. She was released in 2020 only to be sentenced again for 30 months. This time she was arrested in November 2021. Nargis has been working for Defenders of Human Rights Centre and has been fighting for human rights of citizens and for judicial reforms in Iran. Nargis is not the only woman rights activist of Iran to have gone through persecution for speaking in favour of human rights and trade union rights or demanding judicial reforms in the country. There are other brave women in Iran who have dared to stand up against the religious authorities and protest against the human rights abuses committed by the government. Saba Kord Afshari is another young Iranian rights activist who has been jailed for opposing the mandatory hijab laws and protesting against corruption in government’s rank and file. She staged a protest She has spent more than two years in jail in two separate sentences. She was also accused of promoting prostitution and immorality in public when in 2019 when she posted a video of herself without a scarf. She was arrested and was sentenced to 20 years of prison. She said that in Iranian prisons, there was no sign of human rights. This speaks highly of the poor condition of prisons in Iran. Another woman rights activist is Yasman Aryani who opposed the mandatory hijab laws and has spent two years in prison for her ‘crime’ for speaking for the rights of women. She has been detained twice and has spent nearly two years in prison. She was also a participant in the protest against hijab and corruption. She was arrested in 2018 and was sentenced to one year prison and was released in 2019. But her imprisonment could not silence her and her resolve to fight for women’s rights. In 2019, on Women’s Rights Day, Aryani and her mother presented flowers to the women of the women only car of Iran’s Metro to promote resistance against compulsory hijab laws. This act earned her and her mother the wrath of the government and she and her mother were sentenced to 16 years in prison. Later Aryan sentence was reduced to nine years and six months. They have been in jail since then. This is unimaginable in a modern society where only protesting against hijab laws can earn a sentence for 16 years. Tehran, Iran, April 2017 © Grigvovan/Women’s Rights in Iran ---- Atena Daemi is yet another women rights activist of Iran who has earned the wrath of Iran’s religious authorities who deny the rights of women granted to them by Shariah. The conservative religious leadership always try to stifle the female voices that speak up against harassment and persecution of women. Atena fights for the rights of children and opposed death penalty. In 2014 she had been arrested for meeting the families of prisoners and making the plight of the prisoners public causing embarrassment to the jail authorities as the condition of jails in Iran are very poor and the treatment of prisoners in those prisons was like animals. She was arrested and kept in solitary confinement. She was sentenced to 14 years but the sentenced was later reduced to seven years. The jail authorities physically tortured in jail. When her two sisters complained to the court about the torture they were also arrested. Daemi staged hunger strike in protest of their arrest. The inhuman treatment meted out to her in jail caused her serious health problems like skin disease, falling eye sight and stomach problems. Sepideh Qolian is another woman rights activist whom the Iranian government fears and tries to silence. She fights for labour rights of workers. She speaks and writes about the inhuman treatment of prisoners in Iran’s prisons. Her book “Tilapia sucks the blood of Hur-al-Azim deals with the inhuman conditions of Spider Prison. She was arrested in 2019 and was sentenced to 19 years in prison for publishing false news, colluding against national security, illegal assembly and false propaganda against the state. Later her sentence was reduced to five years. From the prison she wrote a book giving an account of the jail condition. She wrote that the jail cell was very small that is 5 square metres with a filthy carpet and two filthier blankets. She also revealed the practice of the jail authorities of extracting forced confessions. She was also offered pardon on the condition that she would apologize to the supreme leader Ayatollah Khamenei but she refused to apologize. She remains in jail. Hangameh Shahidi is another woman activist journalist who has spoken against stoning for adultery. She is vocal for human rights and supports women’s rights in Iran. She has been detained three times and has served jail terms for five years. These are some of the brave women who have shown the courage to stand up against the highhandedness of the religious authorities and have supported women’s rights. They have also made the miserable condition of prisons in the country and the illegal and unIslamic practices of the jail authorities. The women have protested against mandatory hijab, against injustice to the working class and against the child rights abuses. But the Iranian government, instead of bringing jail and labor laws reforms, instead of giving a respectful place granted to them by Islam, have jailed the women with sentences ranging from five years to 14 years, not for killing people but for just opposing mandatory hijab, torture in jails and opposing the punishment for adultery by stoning. This is how women are being treated in Iran which claims to be a truly Islamic country. The Islamic government in practice behaves like the Taliban in Afghanistan. The women of Iran are more educated than their Afghani or Arab counterparts and so they are aware of their rights and place in an Islamic society. They have refused to bow down to the authorities and to the religious leadership. To claim to be a truly Islamic country, Iran needs to change its attitude and policy towards women and should change its laws in accordance with the laws in modern Islamic countries. It needs to reform its jail system and stop torturing women prisoners. These are inhuman practices unbecoming of an Islamic country. URL: https://www.newageislam.com/islam-human-rights/iran-human-rights-women/d/126263 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

Fatima Sheikh: A Founding Member Of The Indian Feminist Movement, Alongside Savitribai Phule And Jyotirao Phule

Fatima Sheikh Launched The Feminist Movement In India And Worked For Women's Rights Highlights 1. She was an enlightened woman who stood side by side with Savitribai Phule and Jyotirao Phule. 2. People used to harass and stop Fatima and Savitribai when they started the educational campaigns. 3. Fatima Sheikh started the first joint struggle of Dalits and Muslims. 4. Google, the world's largest search engine, featured a photo of Fatima Sheikh, wishing her a happy 191st birthday. -------- By Bilal Ahmad Mir, New Age Islam Translation from Urdu by Kaniz Fatma, New Age Islam 28 January 2022 Fatima Sheikh not only launched the feminist movement in India, but she also worked for women's rights. She originated the slogan "Save daughter, educate daughter" with Savitribai Phule a century and a half ago when education for women was deemed kufr. The presence of a poor and lower-class woman, in particular, was regarded as foreboding. Fatima Sheikh was born on January 9, 1831, in Pune, Maharashtra. She was the first Indian woman to become a teacher and open a school for girls. She was an enlightened woman who stood side by side with Savitribai Phule and Jyotirao Phule. She served as a teacher in Phule's secret school and went door to door encouraging small and large families to send their daughters to school and take care of school affairs. It is known that When Savitribai Phule started teaching lower castes, Dalits and especially women, she was asked to either stop this practice or leave her home. The mother-in-law and father-in-law forced her to leave the house. When she decided to leave her house, Fatima Sheikh and her brother Usman Sheikh gave her a place to stay in their house. They helped her establish the first girls' school, the "Intelligence Library". She was against both the upper caste Hindus as well as the conservative Muslims. Almost everyone in the upper class was enraged by her decision and sought to stop her by pestering her socially. Fatima Sheikh, on the other hand, stood like an iron wall and aided Savitribai in any way she could. Her brother, Usman Sheikh could not remain unaffected by the movement. According to documentation from the time, Usman Sheikh recommended Fatima Sheikh to pursue a career in education. People used to harass and stop Fatima and Savitribai when they started attending Jyotibai's school. They were stoned, and the path front of them was littered with thorns. They did not, however, give up and instead became an iron wall in their cause, fighting oppressors who were plotting day and night against the education of lower-class, oppressed, and Muslim women. The life of Fatima Sheikh is of great importance because she started the first joint struggle of Dalits and Muslims. The struggle in the life of Fatima Sheikh proved to be an early prelude. Fatima Sheikh became an icon in India. Fatima Sheikh also worked for women's rights and founded a school for Muslim girls in Pune. Fatima Sheikh was also a teacher at Savitribai Phule School, where she educated Dalit and Muslim girls. The Aim for Education campaign included both Savitribai and Fatima. Fatima Sheikh was a well-known figure in both India and the United States. Fatima Sheikh taught at the University of Pennsylvania and Harvard College of Education as an assistant professor. With her job and personal life, she has affected many women. She was India's first Muslim teacher. She taught in two different Muslim and Dalit girls' schools. Fatima Sheikh was placed in textbooks by the Indian government in 2014. The storey of Fatima Sheikh motivates women to fight for equal rights. Fatima Sheikh was instrumental in opening the doors of education for Muslim and Dalit women in the country and became a forerunner in Indian education for underprivileged women. But unfortunately, history has forgotten Fatima Sheikh. On the internet, Google, the world's largest search engine, featured a photo of Fatima Sheikh in a Google Doodle and wished her a happy 191st birthday. This was a true honour for her. Urdu Article: Fatima Sheikh - The Icon of Women's Rights فاطمہ شیخ۔ حقوق نسواں کی آئیکن URL: https://www.newageislam.com/islam-women-feminism/fatima-sheikh-savitribai-jyotirao-phule-feminist-movement/d/126255 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 Verses Of Jihad In Quran: Meaning, Reason Of Revelation, Context, And Background - Part 14

By Badruddoja Razvi Misbahi, New Age Islam (Translated from Urdu by Newageislam.com) 28 January 2022 Explaining Verses 4:101 and 8:69 Out Of 26 Verses Presented By Wasim Rizvi In Supreme Court Main Points Discussed In Part 14 1. One of the things that the early Muslims had to learn in verse 4:101 was how to pray when they were fearful of the enemies and at war with them. 2. Some commentators argue that the prayer of the journey is not meant in this verse, but rather the prayer of fear. 3. The part of verse 4:101 that says, “Indeed, the disbelievers are ever to you a clear enemy” relates to a reason. 4. During the Prophet's lifetime, the infidels used to plot attacks against Muslims even during prayers. Muslims are therefore cautioned in this verse to always be aware and vigilant! ..... “And when you travel throughout the land, there is no blame upon you for shortening the prayer, [especially] if you fear that those who disbelieve may disrupt [or attack] you. Indeed, the disbelievers are ever to you a clear enemy.” (4:101) “Therefore benefit from the booty you have received, lawful and good; and keep fearing Allah; indeed Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.” (8:69) It's important to notice that in verse 4:101, fear of the enemy isn't a prerequisite for shortening prayers (Qasr). The phrase “if you fear” does not make fear during travel a requirement for shortening prayers. Rather, this pertains to the situation at the time the verse was revealed, as travel was not without fear in those days. The expression “if you fear” was used to reflect the widespread fear of the enemy while travelling in those days. [Hence the readers should not be perplexed here, and 'fear' should not be considered a condition for shortening prayers]. The criterion of reducing prayers (Qasr) applies exclusively to the travels outlined by the jurists, regardless of whether the journey is for Jihad, trade, or some other reason. One of the things that the Islamic Mujahideen had to learn was how to pray when they were fearful of the enemies and at war with them. This critical topic was addressed by Allah Almighty in this verse 4:101. In [the Arabic verse of] the Quran, the word “Qasr” alludes to the shortening of prayers. The phrase “shortening of prayers” in this verse is not clearly defined. Is this limited to reducing the number of raka'ats of prayers, for example, by reducing the number of raka'ats of prayers from four to two? Is this implying that the prayers should be performed in a more reduced manner, such as performing prayers through gestures? Because this text does not precisely define what the phrase “shortening of prayers” means, commentators have come up with two different interpretations: (2) Qasr in this verse refers to reducing the number of raka'ats. The majority of commentators share this viewpoint. They disagree, however, about whether the prayer in this verse refers to the prayer of the journey [Salat al-Safar] or the prayer of fear [Salat al-Khauf]. Some of them believe that this is the prayer of the journey. According to this premise, any prayer that is performed in four raka'ats during non-travel days will be offered in just two raka'ats on journey days, such as Zuhr, Asr, and Isha prayers. The Maghrib and Fajr prayers are not included in them, which means they will not be shortened. Some commentators argue that the prayer of the journey is not meant in this verse, but rather the prayer of fear. Hazrat Ibn Abbas, Hazrat Jabir bin Abdullah, and a group of other jurists believe this. Through the words of the Prophet Muhammad [peace be upon him], Allah has ordained it mandatory for the prayer of non-travel to be performed in four raka'ats, the prayer of the journey to be conducted in two raka'ats instead of four raka'ats, and the prayer of fear to be performed in one raka'at, according to Hazrat Ibn Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him). (Sahih Muslim, Chapter on Prayer of traveller and its shortening, p.241) Commenting on the aforementioned hadith, Imam Abu Zakariya Yahya ibn Sharaf al-Nawawi (may Allah have compassion on him) says that a section of Salaf has practised offering one raka'at of prayer in times of fear. Imam Hasan Basri and Ishaq bin Rahwiyyah hold this viewpoint. The great Imam Abu Hanifa, Imam Malik, Imam Shafi'i, and the majority of jurists, on the other hand, believe that the prayer of fear is the same as the prayer of peace. This indicates that four raka'ats will be performed on non-travel days and two raka'ats will be offered on travel days. They are, however, not permitted to perform one rak'ah under any conditions. These jurists responded to this hadith by saying that one rak'ah refers to the rak'ah that is performed alongside the Imam in a state of fear, while the other is performed separately. (See Imam Nawawi, Commentary on Sahih Muslim: Chapter on the prayer of traveller and its shortening, p. 241) Both of these viewpoints differ on the meaning of qasr as a reduction in the number of raka'ats. (2)The second position is that Qasr in this verse refers to a reduction in the number of ways in which the raka'ats of prayers are completed. So the Qasr here means that the prayers should be performed using gestures. To put it another way, bowing and prostration should be done with gestures, and prayers should be brief. It is permitted to pray on foot in this situation. It is also permitted to pray even if you are bleeding. This is the prayer that is performed in the shadow of swords on the battlefield. Swords brandish from all sides as the battle proceeds, and lives are on the verge of dying. This prayer is offered at such moments. This interpretation (shortening in the ways of raka'ats) has been labelled as weak by the author of Tafsir Kabir [Imam Razi]. It is recommended to use the word 'Qasr' in this verse to indicate that the four-raka'at prayer will be reduced to two Raka'ats. This is supported by the evidence of the hadith recounted by Hazrat Ya'li b. Umayyah, in which he says to Hazrat Umar (may Allah be pleased with him), “Allah says, “And when you travel throughout the land, there is no blame upon you for shortening the prayer, [especially] if you fear that those who disbelieve may disrupt [or attack] you. (4:101)”, and now that the people are safe (i.e. there is no longer any fear of the enemy), why is it necessary to shorten the prayer?” Hazrat Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) stated, “I was as astonished as you are by this judgement. Therefore I inquired about it with Allah's Messenger (peace be upon him), who replied, "It is a charity that Allah has bestowed upon you, so accept His kindness.” (Sahih Muslim, Chapter on Prayer of traveller and its shortening, p.241). More proofs in this regard have been provided by the author of Tafsir-e-Kabir. (See Tafsir-e-Kabir, Imam Razi, under verse 4:101) See the books of Fiqh to know how to perform the prayer of fear [Salat al-Khauf] (Razvi). The part of verse 4:101 that says, “Indeed, the disbelievers are ever to you a clear enemy” relates to a reason. Let us now consider why polytheists and unbelievers have been described as open enemies in this verse. During the Prophet's lifetime, the infidels were constantly attempting to persecute Muslims. They never missed an occasion to make an assault on Muslims while they were at work. They used to plot attacks against Muslims even during prayers. As a result, Muslims are cautioned in this verse to always be aware and vigilant! They have been informed that the infidels and polytheists have animosity toward them and that they may attack you at any time. This animosity still exists today. Muslims are still being targeted by non-Muslim superpowers. Videos of such tragic atrocities against vulnerable and helpless Muslims have been shared on social media, giving us shivers. The fanatical mob kills innocent Muslims on the road whenever it pleases, and the perpetrators are never apprehended or punished. Isn't this atrocity a clear indication that certain people regard Muslims as their enemies? 2. “Therefore benefit from the booty you have received, lawful and good; and keep fearing Allah; indeed Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.” (8:69) Muslims are commanded in this verse to benefit from the spoils of war. The Companions refrained from taking the spoils of war, thus Allah revealed this verse and told the Muslims that taking the spoils of war is allowed. It's also been stated that the particle "ma" in this verse refers to the ransom mentioned in the previous verses. From this perspective, the verse means that it is one of the spoils of war and that it is likewise legal and permissible for them. (Tafsir Ibn Saud, vol.4, p.36) When the Badr captives were brought to the Prophet's court, the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him) conferred with his Companions. Some Companions, like Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddiq (may Allah be pleased with him), speculated that they were family members. What good does it do to murder them? Perhaps they will embrace Islam. Therefore, they should be freed in exchange for a ransom, and their lives should be spared. On the contrary, several Companions, including Hazrat Umar Farooq (May Allah be pleased with him), advocated for their execution and annihilation. They've caused us a lot of grief. As a result, they are deserving of having their necks blown off. We don't require their ransom payment. Rather, one of us should murder one’s relative! Ali should assassinate Aqeel, Hamza should assassinate Abbas, and I should assassinate a relative of mine. But, on the counsel of Hazrat Abu Bakr, the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him) released all of the seventy captives and the noble Quraysh in exchange for ransom. This ransom is also one of the spoils of war, and it is permitted for you, according to this verse. Allah Almighty later revealed the verse, confirming Hazrat Umar Farooq's and his supporters' opinion. This is mentioned in Surah Anfal verse 67. (Al-Razvi) Other Parts Of The Articles: The Verses of Jihad: Meaning, Denotation, Reason of Revelation and Background- Part 1 The Verses of Jihad: Meaning, Denotation, Reason of Revelation and Background- Part 2 The Verses of Jihad: Meaning, Denotation, Reason of Revelation and Background- Part 3 The Verses of Jihad- Meaning, Denotation, Reason of Revelation and Background- Part 4 The Verses of Jihad in The Quran - Meaning, Denotation, Reason of Revelation and Background - Part 5 The Verses of Jihad in The Quran - Meaning, Denotation, Reason of Revelation and Background - Part 6 The Verses of Jihad in Quran: Meaning, Reason of Revelation, Context and Background - Part 7 The Verses of Jihad in Quran: Meaning, Reason of Revelation, Context and Background - Part 8 The Verses of Jihad in Quran: Meaning, Reason of Revelation, Context and Background - Part 9 The Verses of Jihad in Quran: Meaning, Reason of Revelation, Context and Background - Part 10 The Verses of Jihad in Quran: Meaning, Reason of Revelation, Context and Background - Part 11 The Verses Of Jihad In Quran: Meaning, Reason Of Revelation, Context, And Background - Part 12 The Verses of Jihad in Quran: Meaning, Reason of Revelation, Context, and Background - Part 13 ---- Maulana Badruddoja Razvi Misbahi, Principal of Madrasa Arabia Ashrafia Zia-ul-Uloom Khairabad, District Mau, UP (India) is a Sufi-minded, well-mannered, classical Islamic scholar, an expert teacher, an excellent writer, a good poet and orator. He has authored numerous books, some of which are as follows: 1) Fazilat-e-Ramazan, 2) Zad-ul-Haramain, 3) Mukhzin-e-Tib, 4) Tauzeehat-e-Ahsan, the commentary on the well-known logical book “Mulla Hasan” 5) Muhazarat fi Halle Qutbi Tasawwurat, 6) Tahzib al-Faraid commentary on “Sharh al-Aqaid”, 7) Atayib al-Tahani fi Halle Mukhtasar al-Ma’ani, 8) Commentary on Sahih Muslim URL: https://www.newageislam.com/debating-islam/verses-jihad-quran-revelation-part-14/d/126256 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

France And Germany Present And Example By Taking Steps In Favour Of Afghan Muslims And Uygur Muslims While The Muslim Countries Look On

France Condemns Chinese Persecution Of Muslims While Germany Welcome Afghan Muslims In Germany Main Points: 1. France passes a resolution condemning Chinese genocide of Uyghur Muslims. 2. Earlier Holland, Belgium and Italy passed resolutions against China. 3. Muslim countries supported China in the United Nations. 4. Germany made integration of Afghan nationals in German society easier ---- By New Age Islam Staff Writer 27 January 2022 Despite all the big talks of the Muslim countries of following and implementing Sharia, practically they do not show that kind of solidarity to the oppressed and victimized Muslims the world over while the non-Muslim nations whom the extremist Islamic preachers call the enemy of Muslims and Islam come forward to save Muslims in distress and protest against persecution of Muslims in non-Muslim countries. Recently France Parliament passed a resolution condemning the persecution of Turkic ethnic Uyghur Muslims by the Chinese government terming it as genocide of Muslims. The resolution demanded that the government should make protection of Uyghur Muslims taking refuge in France. Last year, Belgium, Italy and Netherland had also passed resolutions condemning Chinese persecution of Uyghur Muslims. More than a million Ethnic Muslims of Xinjiang province have been detained in so called re-education camps where they are forced to abandon their religious beliefs. The women there are raped and forced to go sterilization operations. Many prominent literary and political Uyghur personalities have been killed in these detention camps. Chinese government also forces the Uyghurs to do unpaid labour in cotton plants in the region. Last month the US had banned products produced by forced labor of Uygurs in the US. Unfortunately, Muslim countries have not condemned the Chinese policy in Xinjiang or passed resolutions condemning the genocide of Muslims. Instead they have defended and supported China on the issue. Importantly, two years ago, Chinese government had conducted a guided tour of ulema of Nahdlatul Ulema and Indonesian Ulama Council and representatives of some political parties of Indonesia. China had removed barbed fencing and other incriminating evidences before the tour and had shown them only some sections of re-education camps. After their return from the tour, the ulema of Indonesia had sung praises of China. Not only that, many ulema criticized the US media for unleasiing a propaganda against China. Indonesian government has maintained its stance that the Uyghur issue is an internal problem of China. Imran Khan, the Prime Minister of Pakistan has also maintained the stance taken by the ulema of Nahdlatul Ulema and Indonesian Ulama Council that Uyghurs are not being persecuted in Chinese detention camps and that it was only a propaganda of the US media against China. Saudi Arabia also defended China’s right to fight terrorists in its country suggesting that all the Uyghurs were terrorists. Turkey has not only kept silence on the issue but Uyghur refugees in Turkey have been harassed and deported by the Turkey government. This is in contrast to the policy of the France government which assured the protection of Uyghur refugees in the country. Interestingly, the resolution in the French Parliament against Chinese persecution of Uyghurs by the opposition Socialists but was backed by President Emnmanuel Macron’s LaRem Party. It may be recalled that last year, the whole of Islamic world had stood up against Macron for his comment on the Islamic world and he was branded an enemy of the Muslims and Islam. But on the issue of Uyghur genocide, It was Macron who took the lead in condemning Chinese genocide of Muslims and the Islamic nations are standing with China. It should also be noted that in 2019 western countries had sent letters to the UN Human Rights Council criticising China’s polcy against the ethnic minorities of Xinjiang province. In response China had also sent letter to the UN HR Council with the list of countries that supported its Uyghur policy. Distressingly there were many Islamic countries defending China. The list is as follows. The names of Muslim countries are in bold: Signing the second letter, in defense of China’s policies, were: Algeria, Angola, Bahrain, Belarus, Bolivia, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cambodia, Cameroon, Comoros, Congo, Cuba, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Egypt, Eritrea, Gabon, Kuwait, Laos, Myanmar, Nigeria, North Korea, Oman, Pakistan, Philippines, Qatar, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Tajikistan, Togo, Turkmenistan, United Arab Emirates, Venezuela, and Zimbabwe. Similarly, Germany has also showed the Islamic countries by accepting the fleeing Afghan citizens and giving them opportunity to integrate in the German society. Germany has said that Afghanistan was among the countries from which citizens are being accepted. The enrolment for integration courses for Afghan immigrants have been made easier by the present government. The Social Democratic Party in its election promises had assured of making its migration policy more lenient. The party has fulfilled its promise. The Foreign Minister of Germany Nancy Fazer said, “We should integrate the Afghan nationals into the German society soon because we know that they will live here.” It is an example for the Islamic countries that Germany has accepted more than 5000 Afghan nations since Taliban came to power last August. Last year, a German government agency had said that the Afghan nationals arriving in Germany after recent crisis are more educated than those arriving in 2015 and therefore, they will integrate into the German society more easily. The steps of France and Germany that have shown solidarity with the Muslims of two countries where they are being oppressed are an example for the Islamic countries. The western countries gave the displaced Muslims of Syria and Iraq during the 2014-2015 Syrian civil war as millions of Muslims were granted asylum in Germany, France and other western countries while Muslim countries sealed their borders to prevent them from entering their countries. Some countries deported them back to China to be persecuted and killed. France also granted asylum to Afghan nationals in the run-up to the ascent of Taliban and during the height of the war. France also welcomed those Afghans to France who worked for governmental and non-governmental organizations of France. This caused a mad rush among the Afghan nationals to migrate to France. All these developments indicate the grim realities within the Islamic countries which do not show such concern for humanitarian crisis as the Western countries show. The Ulema, as in the case of Indonesian ulema, also have a very poor understanding and knowledge of the international affairs and make statements due to their lack of knowledge that only harms the cause of the oppressed Muslims. They are totally unaware of the political developments of the world. The Taliban have not shown any interest in calling back the Afghan nationals who have sought shelter in Germany, France, Turkey and other countries. It is blot on their claims of being a truly Islamic organization as Muslims are fleeing from their own country because of the fear of persecution under them and ready to live in a country whom the Taliban consider the enemy of the Muslims. The Muslims feel safer and have more personal and religious freedom in Western countries than in Islamic countries. This provides food for thought who keep ranting against the Western countries. URL: https://www.newageislam.com/islam-west/france-germany-afghan-uygur-muslim-countries/d/126250 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