Panel Discussion held on Women Issues vis a vis Quranic interpretation.
North American Muslim Foundation recently held a panel discussion on the topic of women and their rights within the Islamic Sharia. Have you ever thought that why a woman cannot marry four husbands but a man can? Or what is the answer to the Quran stipulating a woman’s testimony isn’t equal to man? How about the way some Muslim countries treat women and rape? Have you had to drink your morning coffee by the water cooler while choking to answer some these CNN headlines?
Well on the head table last Wednesday night was a scholarly scholar visiting from Trinidad, Moulana Siddiq Nasir, who was schooled in Pakistan’s Aleemiya Institute in the 70’s. The other panelist was Nevin Reda, who is pursuing her Ph D at U of T on theology and the exegesis of Sura Baqara. Habeeb Alli was the moderator and within two hours several topics were discussed around women issues including smart questions from the floor.
This is in a series of evening seminars and discussion the Foundation seeks to do over time in order to bring key issues on the table in civil but yet interesting and intellectual manner. For more of these check out www.namf.ca
In closing Mr. Farouk Khan, the Executive Director remarked that the robust debates between the modern viewpoint and the traditional positions will continue but it’s the opportunity to talk that matters.
CIOG held their 11th Annual dinner
With almost twice the amount of Guyanese out of Guyana out and with a Muslim Diaspora from that only South American English speaking country in GTA around 50,000 you would have heard of the Central Islamic Organization of Guyana. Based in Georgetown, Guyana, with an Islamic education and social amelioration mandate, it has grown over its four decades’ life span into an internationally recognized entity with strong political leverage nationally.
The Canadian Support group has tediously labored over the last 11 years to fundraise on behalf of this NGO for various projects, especially the closest to heart- orphan sponsorship and establishing credible academic and Islamic institutions. Last Saturday the IMO was brimming with over 800 attendees as they sat glued in awe as the visiting professor Moulana Siddiq Nasir spoke eloquently about education and its dire importance in a Muslim’s life. That ended his ten days tour of Toronto, lecturing in various mosques on various topics. The Saturday before a gala dinner was held at the Malton Mosque by his close relatives, Ahmad Khaleel and Sadro Usman, in honor of his stalwart contribution towards Islam and family.
The CIOG dinner was honored by the Consul General of Guyana, Mr. Danny Doobay, who conveyed greetings on behalf of the President of Guyana and reminded the audience that the work of the CIOG is seen as an indispensable source of social security in Guyana.
Shaikh Zahir Bacchus did a sterling job in raising almost 30 K’s for the poor recipients while a number of other organizations were awarded plaques of recognition for their continued support. The food was spicy and hot; after all that’s how you describe Guyanese and their cuisine!
Interview with Islamic Scholar, Siddiq Nasir, resident of Trinidad.
Habeeb Alli, freelance journalist, caught up with Moulana at IMO after the CIOG dinner on Sat April 25th. The following is an interview. Moulana had also appeared on two local West Indian radio shows.
Tell us about your Visit to Canada and has it been successful?
I’m here on the invite of the Support Group in order to deliver the main speech on their annual fundraising dinner and to be earlier so I may lecture in several other places. It was a success not only for the fundraiser but to meet many Muslims and share knowledge with them.
What has your Islamic education journey been like?
I have studied theology and Modern thought including Philosophy and Education at the Aleemiya Institute in Pakistan, leaving Guyana at 18.
Sufism is growing among Canadians. Does your practice of Sufism seen related?
Sufism isn’t some alien part of Islam, However, if there are quacks out there this doesn’t mean the whole of this spiritual part must be rejected. One has to search for the Truth.
You have been involved in various Islamic works, can you say what you think is the need of the hour?
I have been involved in Dawah through education and the need of the hour is education. However, the maximum reach is the challenge and the internet is helpful with this. Majority of the Muslims do not attend mosque and hence to reach them one has to be innovative. Making good use of the mainstream media is also important by addressing current social issues.
How do you perceive the Islamic movement becoming in West?
The ongoing Islamophobia produces a positive impact as more interest is created and people continue to accept Islam in numbers, especially after 9/11. The challenges as in the case of all Prophets provide opportunities for the better. Despite the disunity among groups, certain crisis brings the best out of them to unite and Gaza was a good example of this. Kindness knows no labels. Dialogue within the communities will enhance this.
How do you view interfaith dialogue as its usefulness?
On the common challenge of secularism, all faiths can come together as a single force and answer this call. Coming together is for practical issues not for indefinable concepts like extremism and terrorism. This needs deeper thought.
Being a Guyanese of multi cultural background, do see this as advantageous living in the West as a new immigrant?
People who belong to a certain society are better able to understand and even teach Islam there. However, integration may be problematic when one’s Deen is compromised as faith is paramount. It’s for you to find the happy balance.
Among the programs you have attended and conducted in Toronto which one stood out for you?
The Muslims in Guyana are needy and the dinner was very promising, including the management of time. The panel discussion on women was enlightening at NAMF, However, for such programs to be effective greater detail, communication and planning is needed. Such programs are needed.
With the recent visit of President Obama to the Summit do see this having a positive on Muslim in Trinidad?
I don’t think so but there is hope!
What is your parting advice?
Strive to know more and more of Allah’s guidance individually and collectively. My visit has observed improvement of Islam and I hope it continues.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Earth Day is ours!
Is it that we have inherited the earth from our ancestors or we have borowed it from our grand children? Today marks the International recognition of earth day, where remarkably 170 countries join hands with 200 million humans to make this planet a better world. Yet, the sluggish response of my faith community warrants acknowledgment and a quick wake up call.
Eistein once remarked that should bees seize to exist then the human race will fall off the face of existence within four years. Was he in any way referring to the Quranic truth that bees provide an intricate ecosystem that humans depend on? The food chain includes organisms that we can barely see and bodies larger than mountains. So as believers we must realise that this life on earth is not only to pray and hope for Heaven but to execute our Kahlifa or trusteeship, where we leave mother earth in a better shape for her next dwellers. 2:30 Behold, thy Lord said to the angels: "I will create a trustee on earth." Imagine earth has been referred to as a masjid- the most sacred place of worship- so to take care of it and protect it from destroyers is to be highly regarded and rewarded, isn't it?
So congratulations to those who have initiated small steps or huge projects to make life easier and the world greener. The reward is a perpetual charity- called sadaqa jariya- as the Prophet of Islam did state removing a harmful object from one's path is part of Iman/Faith. Nowadays, that can be spelt out as reducing carbon emissions and avoiding dumping toxic wastes in Third World oceans. As a matter of fact with the rising of ocean acidification, by 2030, we'll need two more earths to take care of homo sapiens! It's time, undoubtiably, to reflect on those teachings of Islam that speaks of fiscal responsibilty, as we cannot spend the earth as if there is no tommorrow and then hope for a bailout when the bill arrives in the next generation.
It's time to also call upon religious institutions and spiritual tourism agencies to do some serious house cleaning by employing energy retrofit, including less water usage, turning off computers and electronic appliances and using recyclables in their regular events. Do you see green domes everywhere, well how about green boxes somewhere?
To qoute Yusuf Islam, once Cat Stevens, I found a religion that blended scientific reason with spiritual reality in a unifying faith far removed from the headlines of violence, destruction and terrorism. So in whatever way we choose to leave a cleaner footprint behind, remember it's not about inheritance, vulnerable to sqaundering but borrowing subjected to perfect return.
Eistein once remarked that should bees seize to exist then the human race will fall off the face of existence within four years. Was he in any way referring to the Quranic truth that bees provide an intricate ecosystem that humans depend on? The food chain includes organisms that we can barely see and bodies larger than mountains. So as believers we must realise that this life on earth is not only to pray and hope for Heaven but to execute our Kahlifa or trusteeship, where we leave mother earth in a better shape for her next dwellers. 2:30 Behold, thy Lord said to the angels: "I will create a trustee on earth." Imagine earth has been referred to as a masjid- the most sacred place of worship- so to take care of it and protect it from destroyers is to be highly regarded and rewarded, isn't it?
So congratulations to those who have initiated small steps or huge projects to make life easier and the world greener. The reward is a perpetual charity- called sadaqa jariya- as the Prophet of Islam did state removing a harmful object from one's path is part of Iman/Faith. Nowadays, that can be spelt out as reducing carbon emissions and avoiding dumping toxic wastes in Third World oceans. As a matter of fact with the rising of ocean acidification, by 2030, we'll need two more earths to take care of homo sapiens! It's time, undoubtiably, to reflect on those teachings of Islam that speaks of fiscal responsibilty, as we cannot spend the earth as if there is no tommorrow and then hope for a bailout when the bill arrives in the next generation.
It's time to also call upon religious institutions and spiritual tourism agencies to do some serious house cleaning by employing energy retrofit, including less water usage, turning off computers and electronic appliances and using recyclables in their regular events. Do you see green domes everywhere, well how about green boxes somewhere?
To qoute Yusuf Islam, once Cat Stevens, I found a religion that blended scientific reason with spiritual reality in a unifying faith far removed from the headlines of violence, destruction and terrorism. So in whatever way we choose to leave a cleaner footprint behind, remember it's not about inheritance, vulnerable to sqaundering but borrowing subjected to perfect return.
Monday, April 20, 2009
marriage is love and sex; so don't rape one from the other!
The hullaballo that has been raised recently on marital rape warrants profound response.
It seems as if the media has found fodder for yet another black on the white cloth of Islam. Worse yet many ignorant adherents have fuelled this rather unculpable attitude towards women with an old fashion idea of sexuality.
The exchange of intimacy between two people is not only out of love and mutual consent but a private and rather divinely inspired event. When force rather than affection, coercion instead of voluntary intent and misunderstanding before accomodation become the rule of any union, then the limbs of such a contract are almost amputated. The next in line is the exit of the soul.
The contention here is- can love can be legislated? How can one force a woman, even if she is a consenting wife, to have conjugal relations every four days, as per media reports, when this feeling isn't conditional to a timetable, is beyond comprehension. Men may more function on numbers but it's a proven fact that women are our angels of emotions and respond with feelings and desires beyond any time frame. She isn't a switch of technology, available to fulfil someone's schedule of lust but herself a diva of beauty, whose satisfaction is equally paramount. Yes, biologically some days are more in the call than others but again to regulate sex to a sense of duty rather than want is simply unnatural. Islam is called the religion of fitra or nature, so thereore I condemn this sort of macho inspired resolution, no mater how politically expedient it may be for some.
Anyone who misqoutes a statement of Islamic text that angels curse a wife that refuses must study the authenticity of such a tradition and more importantly understand the context of its claim. Would this apply in the days where approach is forbidden or during other common reasons of refrain? Therefore, this is as much in her jurisdiction of agreeing as her marriage was. There is no compusion in religion- so says the Quran and similarly when she is uncomfortable there must be understanding- as the Quran again states- stay away from women when they are experiencing discomfort.
The Prophet of Islam would sensitively refrain from intimacy with his wife if she complained of even an eye pain. Of course, foreplay was his key in ensuring satisfaction during intimacy, to the extent the Quran refers to one's spouse as a garden- therefore tilth the soil of love well!
As a matter of fact, He, on whom be peace, condemned those husbands who hurt their wives during the day and then force themselves upon them like animals later. Hurt isn't only physical.
There should never be a disrespectful demand for such a sacred act of highest pleasure. Some cultures find it convenient to call her 'names', hence their attitude exposes their self conceiting pride of sexism. Rather, like magnetism, this ying yang between lovers should be as automatically romantic as the opposing poles are. Again, about this proposed legislation, would she be elligible for divorce in such a rightful refusal, or would she be jailed or stoned for infidelity-worse yet- such as the unjust string of legislations that treat women as chattel in some places? I hope not. So what's the use in the first place to rule publicly, with such immodesty, on an act so private?
It's time this type of domestic violence be ruled unlawful and a surety for women globally be established, that even in the name of marriage- her last vestige of protection- our mothers and daughters are never exploited, regardless.
In the words of Prophet Muhammad, she is a crystal and crystals do not only decorate but must be treated as priceless gems of pride, to be guarded thoroughly, before their inner beauty could be shone for the outer world to enjoy.
So to our sisters in pain, I relish your value not because you are the Eve of every Adam but you complete every man that loves you:- caringly.
Yours truly,
It seems as if the media has found fodder for yet another black on the white cloth of Islam. Worse yet many ignorant adherents have fuelled this rather unculpable attitude towards women with an old fashion idea of sexuality.
The exchange of intimacy between two people is not only out of love and mutual consent but a private and rather divinely inspired event. When force rather than affection, coercion instead of voluntary intent and misunderstanding before accomodation become the rule of any union, then the limbs of such a contract are almost amputated. The next in line is the exit of the soul.
The contention here is- can love can be legislated? How can one force a woman, even if she is a consenting wife, to have conjugal relations every four days, as per media reports, when this feeling isn't conditional to a timetable, is beyond comprehension. Men may more function on numbers but it's a proven fact that women are our angels of emotions and respond with feelings and desires beyond any time frame. She isn't a switch of technology, available to fulfil someone's schedule of lust but herself a diva of beauty, whose satisfaction is equally paramount. Yes, biologically some days are more in the call than others but again to regulate sex to a sense of duty rather than want is simply unnatural. Islam is called the religion of fitra or nature, so thereore I condemn this sort of macho inspired resolution, no mater how politically expedient it may be for some.
Anyone who misqoutes a statement of Islamic text that angels curse a wife that refuses must study the authenticity of such a tradition and more importantly understand the context of its claim. Would this apply in the days where approach is forbidden or during other common reasons of refrain? Therefore, this is as much in her jurisdiction of agreeing as her marriage was. There is no compusion in religion- so says the Quran and similarly when she is uncomfortable there must be understanding- as the Quran again states- stay away from women when they are experiencing discomfort.
The Prophet of Islam would sensitively refrain from intimacy with his wife if she complained of even an eye pain. Of course, foreplay was his key in ensuring satisfaction during intimacy, to the extent the Quran refers to one's spouse as a garden- therefore tilth the soil of love well!
As a matter of fact, He, on whom be peace, condemned those husbands who hurt their wives during the day and then force themselves upon them like animals later. Hurt isn't only physical.
There should never be a disrespectful demand for such a sacred act of highest pleasure. Some cultures find it convenient to call her 'names', hence their attitude exposes their self conceiting pride of sexism. Rather, like magnetism, this ying yang between lovers should be as automatically romantic as the opposing poles are. Again, about this proposed legislation, would she be elligible for divorce in such a rightful refusal, or would she be jailed or stoned for infidelity-worse yet- such as the unjust string of legislations that treat women as chattel in some places? I hope not. So what's the use in the first place to rule publicly, with such immodesty, on an act so private?
It's time this type of domestic violence be ruled unlawful and a surety for women globally be established, that even in the name of marriage- her last vestige of protection- our mothers and daughters are never exploited, regardless.
In the words of Prophet Muhammad, she is a crystal and crystals do not only decorate but must be treated as priceless gems of pride, to be guarded thoroughly, before their inner beauty could be shone for the outer world to enjoy.
So to our sisters in pain, I relish your value not because you are the Eve of every Adam but you complete every man that loves you:- caringly.
Yours truly,
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Saintly demise
Saintly demise
Ilm and leadership.
tribute to Imam Hyaderali- the blessed leader
Gone you haven't
Just stepped out in the Beyond
Memories you stuck with us deeply
Like a tattoo all around
Fierce in your beliefs
Endless effort to spread the truth
Sacrifice of life, family and wealth
You made men out of boys and scholars out of nothing
Embracing the diversity of God
You regarded every neighbour Allah's servant
Love flowed from your life like Kaeiteur
And kindness like Hagar's milk
May your legacy be everlasting
Knowledge, love, kindness and leadership
For in this life there is only one gift
To love and be loved after you're long gone!
Ilm and leadership.
tribute to Imam Hyaderali- the blessed leader
Gone you haven't
Just stepped out in the Beyond
Memories you stuck with us deeply
Like a tattoo all around
Fierce in your beliefs
Endless effort to spread the truth
Sacrifice of life, family and wealth
You made men out of boys and scholars out of nothing
Embracing the diversity of God
You regarded every neighbour Allah's servant
Love flowed from your life like Kaeiteur
And kindness like Hagar's milk
May your legacy be everlasting
Knowledge, love, kindness and leadership
For in this life there is only one gift
To love and be loved after you're long gone!
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Islamic Education: A global essential for women’s defense.
Islamic Education: A global essential for women’s defense.
If the media doesn’t run a story of a Muslim woman in hijab, or better yet in netted burqa, lacerated by strings of depression on her forehead, on its headline, it would have just lost a photojournalism award on any piece on Islam. The question is does Islam really hate women and relegates them to the back seat of ignorance and husband’s domination? Aren’t Muslims supposed to be the most educated, since the very basis of Islam is llm, or knowing?
The Power of Dialogue
Khawlah was a Muslim woman whose husband Aws pronounced this statement at a moment of anger: "You are to me as the back of my mother." This was held by pagan Arabs to be a statement of divorce which freed the husband from any conjugal responsibility but did not leave the wife free to leave the husband's home or to marry another man. Having heard these words from her husband, Khawlah was in a miserable situation. She went straight to the Prophet of Islam to plead her case. The Prophet was of the opinion that she should be patient since there seemed to be no way out. Khawla kept arguing with the Prophet in an attempt to save her suspended marriage. Shortly, the Quran intervened; Khawla's plea was accepted. The divine verdict abolished this iniquitous custom. One full chapter (Chapter 58) of the Quran whose title is "Almujadilah" or "The Woman Who Pleads" was named after this incident:
"Allah has heard and accepted the statement of the woman who pleads with you (the Prophet) concerning her husband and carries her complaint to Allah, and Allah hears the arguments between both of you for Allah hears and sees all things...." (Quran 58:1).
This easily supports my ever nagging point that women must be educated in all departments of life including, becoming experts on Islamic faith but with a new angle of interactive academy and critical analysis.
Wives are educators
Aisha the beloved youngest wife of the Holy Prophet was regarded as a jewel of Islam, not because she was simply his only virgin wife or she was the pretty daughter of his best friend Abu Bakr Siddiq, but more importantly she was the one who challenged him intellectually. That being smart, outspoken, childish yet loving was her unique characteristic. She took pride in what she did and she did it equally professional. Her integrity was tested in the episode of Ifq/ slandered by a hypocrite and she passed with flying colors. The Quran talks about her exoneration in glowing accolades. Altogether she is the first woman scholar in Islam and has left this rich legacy among women that no matter what you do and what maybe your circumstances, getting a basic education and learning about your faith is the key to success.
I dislike the dichotomy many offer when it comes to secular job based knowledge and divine revelation- they are both important and sacred as the originator of all wisdom is God Almighty, Allah. Lady Aisha taught the people of Medina, including the boys and answered the men and women their repeated questions, for almost half a century, after the Prophet’s demise. If education and seeking the truths of revelation wasn’t the most meaningful part of her life, while being the Prophets’ favorite, then how could she have served so selflessly for so long? She did not wallow in sorrow at the absence of her most beloved and prized gift. She adored him by keeping his mantle burning with her dedicated service. Many a times when this issue of women learning Islam comes up, the image of black covered females takes over. Learning is a duty separate from any other acts in Islam; they all have their own virtues and one should not hinder the other. Being active like Lady Aisha should be paramount and the world have seen many such savants who have not made the ridicule of the narrow minded stop them from dong their duty.
Q 3:110 You are the best of peoples, evolved for mankind, enjoining what is right, forbidding what is wrong, and believing in Allah.
Humanity comes first
Today our women don’t only have to grapple with issues of daily hygiene and prayers or learning the many ways of worship in Hajj or whilst traveling in the Path of Allah alone but they must be in the know about the more serious social-economic issues of survival and the bombarding political problems of self identity in the media and workplace. Being equipped with the right tools of research and knowing how to handle issues intelligently and wisely makes her stand among the Mother Mary’s of the world and the many Karen Armstrong’s of the West.
You may have noticed how some superstars have become the darlings of the media with their heroic off screen philanthropy? Well this is the humanity that needs to be re-awakened among our people- the hadith says the best of you is she who benefits others.
This is the time when leadership must recognize that 70% of the world are affected by the present economic downturn that’s wringing dry the financial capabilities of those who didn’t even benefit from the credit crunch. Inasmuch, the majority of those feeling the poverty pinch are women and children. Where will they be fed from? Who will supply them drinking water, or save them from HIV or cholera? Will they have a safe place to bow their heads in the night and will their children have the future out of a vicious cycle of ignorance and violence?
Islamic education is meant to not only change the knowledge base of an individual but to bake a character of thoughtfulness and self responsibility. In so doing, many have rid themselves of superstition and custom based lifestyles by studying the deeper meaning of social reform and Islamic theology. Therefore, learning the Quran should never be about exorcising possibly mental health victims for a few dollars but to liberate the mind from mental slavery.
Q 14:1 Book which We have revealed unto you, in order that you may lead mankind out of the depths of darkness into light.
Women should speak up
Instead of relying on a male Imam to defend your rights and to educate against domestic violence, marital rape and endless macho domination, it’s the most powerful en-armament to have an educated sister standing up against these dastardly Un-Islamic practices prevalent in Muslim comminutes across divides. Naturally, the voice of the oppressed is powerful as it sits by the throne of Allah.
Easily a woman would stand in front the undefeatable Umar bin Khatab and question him on his standardization efforts on the maher/dowry- the woman’s inalienable right by divine decree is to accept or refuse whatever bridal price she’s offered. So discussion and dialogue are not alien to Islam but rude attitude and callous behaviors are definitely strange bed fellows to any Faith. So to have women educated on the liberation movement on saving the planet through active greening and faith based environmentalism is an integral nature of women studying the Scriptures in the past. Whatever are the current issues facing globalization today it’s equally our concern and the precedence of its solution is somewhere in our divine text and time-tested tradition. Why did Fatima, the Prophet’s special daughter chose a life of austerity despite being a royal princess and the wife of an able and scholastic Ali bin Talib? It was she knew such a model lifestyle would become the tradition of millions of women, who realize happiness is not rooted in crass shopping but lies in being contented and grateful, and yet still be sassy and sophisticated. Princess Fatima worked with her hands and refused any servants. She is likened to the millions of ladies who work day jobs yet return home to make dinner, help with home work and give company to their husband’s dreams while pursuing studies. They are indeed the servants of Allah but choose to be honorable in their lives not because of anything but simply the Spiritual has strike their core. A woman, the crystals of love and the angels of tenderness, is not a servant of her husband nor children yet alone mother-in-law and father-in-law. She is entitled to her own residence, aides and maintenance plus pocket money! If there is not a critical education of Islam when it comes to women’s issues serious ailments will prevail. Additionally, the main characters of society building, the mothers of our nation, will be paralyzed in executing their duties.
Q 5:67 O Messenger, proclaim the (message) which have sent to you. If you did not then you would not have fulfilled and proclaimed His mission. And Allah will defend you from men (who mean mischief).
Women scientists are real leaders
Isn’t it admirable that recently the world paid tribute to a woman who made her 63 years of adult existence the locus of fighting for women to be educated, to vote, to be treated fairly, to work, to assemble and to receive proper medical treatment in Guyana. She was an American Jewish woman who arrived in colonial Guiana and adopted the Indian culture humbly, while walking from coast to mountain, seeking after justice and equality on others behalf. She is Janet Jagan, sitting besides Mother Theresa and Nelson Mandela on the pedestal of humanity’s self less leaders. Isn’t this what Islam aught to do? It made at least the Prophet and his followers fight against poverty with zakat, against women being treated as chattels with marriage, against girls being buried alive with equalization in dignity and against all forms of gender bias by announcing they are not the Satan that whispered into Adam’s ear. But how will one seek this self dignity and self pride in ones identity when the culture of the triumphant civilization wreaks havoc on your self, your faith, your dress, your ideas, your cuisine and your history? In the traveling museum of Islamic civilization one may be astounded to find these scientists weren’t only bearded men in long flowing robes but so many revered women were pioneers of Science and Islamic thought.
Today the Muslim woman may still be seen oppressed and her issues unsolved but there is light the end of tunnel. See this Gallup's report, Muslim Americans: A National Portrait, which compares the opinions of Muslim Americans with those of the general U.S. population done in USA recently.
The report also reveals that Muslim American women are one of the most highly educated female religious groups in the United States, second only to Jewish American women. In addition, as a group, Muslim Americans have the highest degree of economic gender parity at the high and low ends of the income spectrum.
I would like to paraphrase a quote from Maryam Jameela, the convert American Jewess, who lived in Pakistan for many years and wrote Islam vs the West: That learning about the society where you live makes you appreciate the religion you profess.
If the media doesn’t run a story of a Muslim woman in hijab, or better yet in netted burqa, lacerated by strings of depression on her forehead, on its headline, it would have just lost a photojournalism award on any piece on Islam. The question is does Islam really hate women and relegates them to the back seat of ignorance and husband’s domination? Aren’t Muslims supposed to be the most educated, since the very basis of Islam is llm, or knowing?
The Power of Dialogue
Khawlah was a Muslim woman whose husband Aws pronounced this statement at a moment of anger: "You are to me as the back of my mother." This was held by pagan Arabs to be a statement of divorce which freed the husband from any conjugal responsibility but did not leave the wife free to leave the husband's home or to marry another man. Having heard these words from her husband, Khawlah was in a miserable situation. She went straight to the Prophet of Islam to plead her case. The Prophet was of the opinion that she should be patient since there seemed to be no way out. Khawla kept arguing with the Prophet in an attempt to save her suspended marriage. Shortly, the Quran intervened; Khawla's plea was accepted. The divine verdict abolished this iniquitous custom. One full chapter (Chapter 58) of the Quran whose title is "Almujadilah" or "The Woman Who Pleads" was named after this incident:
"Allah has heard and accepted the statement of the woman who pleads with you (the Prophet) concerning her husband and carries her complaint to Allah, and Allah hears the arguments between both of you for Allah hears and sees all things...." (Quran 58:1).
This easily supports my ever nagging point that women must be educated in all departments of life including, becoming experts on Islamic faith but with a new angle of interactive academy and critical analysis.
Wives are educators
Aisha the beloved youngest wife of the Holy Prophet was regarded as a jewel of Islam, not because she was simply his only virgin wife or she was the pretty daughter of his best friend Abu Bakr Siddiq, but more importantly she was the one who challenged him intellectually. That being smart, outspoken, childish yet loving was her unique characteristic. She took pride in what she did and she did it equally professional. Her integrity was tested in the episode of Ifq/ slandered by a hypocrite and she passed with flying colors. The Quran talks about her exoneration in glowing accolades. Altogether she is the first woman scholar in Islam and has left this rich legacy among women that no matter what you do and what maybe your circumstances, getting a basic education and learning about your faith is the key to success.
I dislike the dichotomy many offer when it comes to secular job based knowledge and divine revelation- they are both important and sacred as the originator of all wisdom is God Almighty, Allah. Lady Aisha taught the people of Medina, including the boys and answered the men and women their repeated questions, for almost half a century, after the Prophet’s demise. If education and seeking the truths of revelation wasn’t the most meaningful part of her life, while being the Prophets’ favorite, then how could she have served so selflessly for so long? She did not wallow in sorrow at the absence of her most beloved and prized gift. She adored him by keeping his mantle burning with her dedicated service. Many a times when this issue of women learning Islam comes up, the image of black covered females takes over. Learning is a duty separate from any other acts in Islam; they all have their own virtues and one should not hinder the other. Being active like Lady Aisha should be paramount and the world have seen many such savants who have not made the ridicule of the narrow minded stop them from dong their duty.
Q 3:110 You are the best of peoples, evolved for mankind, enjoining what is right, forbidding what is wrong, and believing in Allah.
Humanity comes first
Today our women don’t only have to grapple with issues of daily hygiene and prayers or learning the many ways of worship in Hajj or whilst traveling in the Path of Allah alone but they must be in the know about the more serious social-economic issues of survival and the bombarding political problems of self identity in the media and workplace. Being equipped with the right tools of research and knowing how to handle issues intelligently and wisely makes her stand among the Mother Mary’s of the world and the many Karen Armstrong’s of the West.
You may have noticed how some superstars have become the darlings of the media with their heroic off screen philanthropy? Well this is the humanity that needs to be re-awakened among our people- the hadith says the best of you is she who benefits others.
This is the time when leadership must recognize that 70% of the world are affected by the present economic downturn that’s wringing dry the financial capabilities of those who didn’t even benefit from the credit crunch. Inasmuch, the majority of those feeling the poverty pinch are women and children. Where will they be fed from? Who will supply them drinking water, or save them from HIV or cholera? Will they have a safe place to bow their heads in the night and will their children have the future out of a vicious cycle of ignorance and violence?
Islamic education is meant to not only change the knowledge base of an individual but to bake a character of thoughtfulness and self responsibility. In so doing, many have rid themselves of superstition and custom based lifestyles by studying the deeper meaning of social reform and Islamic theology. Therefore, learning the Quran should never be about exorcising possibly mental health victims for a few dollars but to liberate the mind from mental slavery.
Q 14:1 Book which We have revealed unto you, in order that you may lead mankind out of the depths of darkness into light.
Women should speak up
Instead of relying on a male Imam to defend your rights and to educate against domestic violence, marital rape and endless macho domination, it’s the most powerful en-armament to have an educated sister standing up against these dastardly Un-Islamic practices prevalent in Muslim comminutes across divides. Naturally, the voice of the oppressed is powerful as it sits by the throne of Allah.
Easily a woman would stand in front the undefeatable Umar bin Khatab and question him on his standardization efforts on the maher/dowry- the woman’s inalienable right by divine decree is to accept or refuse whatever bridal price she’s offered. So discussion and dialogue are not alien to Islam but rude attitude and callous behaviors are definitely strange bed fellows to any Faith. So to have women educated on the liberation movement on saving the planet through active greening and faith based environmentalism is an integral nature of women studying the Scriptures in the past. Whatever are the current issues facing globalization today it’s equally our concern and the precedence of its solution is somewhere in our divine text and time-tested tradition. Why did Fatima, the Prophet’s special daughter chose a life of austerity despite being a royal princess and the wife of an able and scholastic Ali bin Talib? It was she knew such a model lifestyle would become the tradition of millions of women, who realize happiness is not rooted in crass shopping but lies in being contented and grateful, and yet still be sassy and sophisticated. Princess Fatima worked with her hands and refused any servants. She is likened to the millions of ladies who work day jobs yet return home to make dinner, help with home work and give company to their husband’s dreams while pursuing studies. They are indeed the servants of Allah but choose to be honorable in their lives not because of anything but simply the Spiritual has strike their core. A woman, the crystals of love and the angels of tenderness, is not a servant of her husband nor children yet alone mother-in-law and father-in-law. She is entitled to her own residence, aides and maintenance plus pocket money! If there is not a critical education of Islam when it comes to women’s issues serious ailments will prevail. Additionally, the main characters of society building, the mothers of our nation, will be paralyzed in executing their duties.
Q 5:67 O Messenger, proclaim the (message) which have sent to you. If you did not then you would not have fulfilled and proclaimed His mission. And Allah will defend you from men (who mean mischief).
Women scientists are real leaders
Isn’t it admirable that recently the world paid tribute to a woman who made her 63 years of adult existence the locus of fighting for women to be educated, to vote, to be treated fairly, to work, to assemble and to receive proper medical treatment in Guyana. She was an American Jewish woman who arrived in colonial Guiana and adopted the Indian culture humbly, while walking from coast to mountain, seeking after justice and equality on others behalf. She is Janet Jagan, sitting besides Mother Theresa and Nelson Mandela on the pedestal of humanity’s self less leaders. Isn’t this what Islam aught to do? It made at least the Prophet and his followers fight against poverty with zakat, against women being treated as chattels with marriage, against girls being buried alive with equalization in dignity and against all forms of gender bias by announcing they are not the Satan that whispered into Adam’s ear. But how will one seek this self dignity and self pride in ones identity when the culture of the triumphant civilization wreaks havoc on your self, your faith, your dress, your ideas, your cuisine and your history? In the traveling museum of Islamic civilization one may be astounded to find these scientists weren’t only bearded men in long flowing robes but so many revered women were pioneers of Science and Islamic thought.
Today the Muslim woman may still be seen oppressed and her issues unsolved but there is light the end of tunnel. See this Gallup's report, Muslim Americans: A National Portrait, which compares the opinions of Muslim Americans with those of the general U.S. population done in USA recently.
The report also reveals that Muslim American women are one of the most highly educated female religious groups in the United States, second only to Jewish American women. In addition, as a group, Muslim Americans have the highest degree of economic gender parity at the high and low ends of the income spectrum.
I would like to paraphrase a quote from Maryam Jameela, the convert American Jewess, who lived in Pakistan for many years and wrote Islam vs the West: That learning about the society where you live makes you appreciate the religion you profess.
Tribute to the Late her Excellency Janet Jagan
Tribute to the Late her Excellency Janet Jagan
The falcon falls
Embraced the land of six races
The hero of struggle
With rich intellect and motherly bravery
Known fondly as blue-eyed bhoujie
She placed the Indian culture
On the altar of her American dream
And graced the downtrodden with hopes
On barely daubed bottom houses
To the misguided
The ideologue argued in their palaces of honor
Even Palestinians and Cubans you did not forget
Now your legacy too will not be forgotten
Not to be mistaken for her political views
Not everyone agrees with a God-ridden philosophy
But the rights of women and the right to speak
The whole world applauds even in holy places
The falcon falls
Embraced the land of six races
The hero of struggle
With rich intellect and motherly bravery
Known fondly as blue-eyed bhoujie
She placed the Indian culture
On the altar of her American dream
And graced the downtrodden with hopes
On barely daubed bottom houses
To the misguided
The ideologue argued in their palaces of honor
Even Palestinians and Cubans you did not forget
Now your legacy too will not be forgotten
Not to be mistaken for her political views
Not everyone agrees with a God-ridden philosophy
But the rights of women and the right to speak
The whole world applauds even in holy places
Ambitious forum on domestic violence held in Toronto Isn't this an oxymoron- Muslims and domestic violence? But in answer to the seminar held at Dawah Centre on March 22nd this is no longer a myth to leave in denial but a fact of the Muslim communities. Talking about this reality was Sargeant Ruby Dhutt, who has been on duty in the South Asian community in GTA, for years, dealing with this life threatening yet culturally sensitive issue. She ably explained the procedures and laws in dealing with abused women and men, while showing that the fear of losing dignity and face can lead to worse case scenarios.
AbdulHai Pate, honorary doctorate recipient in Islamic service, candidly outlined the Islamic stand on this tragic development and condemned anyone using religion to beat their wives and illtreat their children. Shabbir Ally, the Mosque President, did a wonderful job in moderating the session, which saw a reasonable turnout of both concerned women and men as well as social workers in the diverse community.Habeeb Alli, the Canadian Council of Imams secretary and executive of JamiatulUama Canada, the two hosts, at the end joined the panelists in a workshop that dealth with live examples. He showed how the Quran doesn't uphold beating of women from oft misquoted verse and how the daily usage of language derides the better halves of men. More of these are definitely needed and too book one contact this newspaper or our website- www.canadiancouncilofimams.com
Islamic School principals invited to unite.
Teaching has always been referred to as the thankless profession and being the Principal of an Islamic school definitely will be worse. However, we cannot, as a growing community, making headlines regularly in Canada, miss the opportunity to say thank you to our tireless leaders in this important service of Islam. Last Saturday some forty odd school heads, males and females, were invited by the North American Muslim foundation to a luncheon in recognition of their wonderful work. It was meant to be a social networking and get to know event. While the busy schedules and far distance of some schools in Ontario doesn't allow this yet the response is this should be happening every month. Dialogue is to understaning what blood is to the body. When we stop talking we stop honoring. This effort should be such that a resource centre is set up, as in the US, where Islamic schools may share in resources and learn from meach other. Coming to each other's help and promoting each other without fearof loosing their flock is key to our survival.
Brampton Islamic Centre held their annual dinner
Tucked into the corner of Mclughlin and Lowry, Brampton, is this corporate looking edifice with a distinct looks of a modern Church. A closer look and entry into this beautiful complex reveals a fully operaing mosque, school, gym, food bank, social service and comfort zone. This is how the muddy mosque of Median was in the Prophetic era- minus the heating and carpets! It was almost a one stop shop for vital services and deep spiritual haven. Brampton Islamic Centre, commonly known as Haji Hayat Suunatul, recently celebrated their fourth anniversary with a sumptuous gala dinner. The lay out in the main hall was simply banquetish and more in an ambience of colorful dressed Muslims and plenty happy chatter. Shabbir Ally, as the guest speaker, spoke eloquently on the role of the family and some of the modern challenges. The mosque is expected to provide ahuge and integral help in maing it work as a success story. Habeeb Alli performed the indomitable task of fundrasing for the new ablution/wudu area and functioning health approved kitchen. The current official Imam hails from Barbados and studied in UK and India. He said that he's very grateful for all the attendees and volunteers and hoped from this dinner many will feel committed to further the cause of this mosque which is to make us better Muslims and Canadians.
See bsia.ca for more.
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