Category: Faith & Spirituality, Featured Topics: Zakat Views: 9610
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Five frequently made statements
In the name of God, most Gracious, most Merciful
The purpose of this essay is to discuss the following five statements that are frequently made by Muslim community leaders and Imams:
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Muslims are in a sad state of affairs because they are not following the Quran and Sunnah
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The problem of poverty in Muslim countries will go away if everyone paid his/her share of Zakat.
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No matter how good a person you are, you will not go to Paradise if you do not have true Iman (Faith)
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We should think more about Akhira (life after death) than about Dunya (this life).
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Anything you do, should be done to please Allah (SWT).
Two aspects of these statements are worth noting. Firstly, these statements have a historical sacredness attached to them and most Muslims accept them as a matter of faith. Secondly, each statement is expressed in very general terms. As someone has said, the devil is in the details. As such, we will delve into these statements one by one in some detail.
1. Muslims are in a sad state of affairs because they are not following the Quran and Sunnah.
Two questions immediately arise. First; what is it really that the Muslims are not doing in accordance with Quran and Sunnah? And second; How is it that those nations which are not Muslim (and consequently must not be following the Quran and Sunnah) are economically, scientifically, and militarily very advanced and are thrusting their will on Muslim countries?
A clue to this dilemma can perhaps be found in the poems and writings of Mohammed Iqbal, philosopher and poet from the Indian Sub-Continent. For example, in his "Jawab-e-Shikwa" (Answer to the Complaint), Iqbal points out that even a non-Believer, if he follows the Islamic approach to life, is rewarded by God. In a letter to one of his friends, Iqbal writes: Western nations are advanced because of their action oriented approach to life (Quwwat-e-Amal) and their zeal to conquer nature.
The Islamic approach to life, according to Iqbal, is pursuing knowledge, building character and having a will and determination to accomplish things in life, not merely following the rituals in their minute details. This, then, seems to be the real failing in the Muslim Ummah. Therefore, a proper interpretation of the above-noted statement would be that the Muslims should develop a strong will to advance in the quest for knowledge and a sincere desire for the spirit of inquiry, build strong national character, and become united in the affairs affecting major problems. Minor differences in rituals and outwardly requirements should be left to individuals.
2. The problem of poverty in Muslim countries will go away if every one paid his/her share of Zakat
The amount of Zakat basically is 2.5% of savings. In most of the Muslim countries, 85%-90% of people are very poor who have hardly any savings. So, their Zakat amount can be assumed to be zero. About 15% of the population could be regarded as middle class and 1%-2% could be considered wealthy. Now, a few simple calculations will show that even if the 2% affluent people and the 15% middle class groups paid their Zakat fully, the amount so collected may appear to be large, but if distributed among the 85% poor people, it will turn out to be very small on a per capita basis, hardly making any difference in the overall poverty level of the poor people. It will, of course benefit a few people but the statement that "The problem of poverty will go away" will be proven overly optimistic and simplistic.
The fact of the matter is that a nation's economic well-being is primarily dependent on its productive capacity and an equitable distribution of wealth.. If a nation's production and distribution of wealth is such that ,say, 85% of its people are reasonably well off, 5-10% are rich and less than 5% people are poor, then the 2.5% Zakat from the upper and middle classes will surely make a significant difference in poor people's lives. This is roughly the case in the industrially advanced countries. Zakat has its place in an individual's life but it cannot substitute the basic need for higher productivity among the Muslim Ummah.
3. No matter how good a person you are you will not go to Paradise if you do not have true Iman (Faith)
The general understanding of this statement is that all Muslims, by virtue of the fact that they believe in one God and Prophet Muhammad 
being His last prophet, are assured a place in paradise after being punished for their sins. On the other hand, all other people, who do not believe in the basic faith of Islam, will forever be condemned to Hell after being rewarded for their good deeds.
Now, there are billions of non-Muslims. In fact, 80% of the world population is not Muslim, primarily because they happened to be born in other faiths and are sincere followers of their faiths. Most of them are wonderful human beings living a virtuous life. For Muslims to claim that all of them are condemned to hell because they have not recited the Kalima, seems very severe and smacks of arrogance.
An appropriate approach to this issue would be to believe that the decision as to who will go to Paradise and who will not is something only Allah 
knows. He is just and His mercy is boundless. He is the one who will judge who has the true faith and who does not and He is the one who will judge the acts of each one of us and will decide our fate. We mortal human beings cannot and should not play God.
4. We should think more about Akhira (Life after death) than about Dunya (worldly life)
Every serious minded person fully realizes that death is inevitable and that one should not get carried away in the pursuit of pleasures and luxuries in this life. However, the way our religious leaders talk about this issue gives the impression that achieving modern scientific knowledge, getting ahead in one's profession, and living a prosperous life etc. are all worldly things whereas praying, fasting, observing Ittekaf, participating in Milad, and listening to religious scholars etc. are the things that will earn you a good life in Akhira. This is a very narrow and inward looking interpretation of the teachings of Islam. Instead, Muslims should be told to regard this life as a great gift of Allah which must be spent actively and purposefully. It should be lived with the goal of acquiring greater knowledge, contributing your skills for the betterment of fellow human beings and struggling to create a better society - a society where justice and peace prevail. It is this positive and zealous approach to life that will earn you plentiful blessings of Allah and a high place in Paradise in the Hereafter.
5. Anything you do, should be done to please Allah
It goes without saying that as Muslims we should make every effort to follow the commandments of Allah given in the Holy Quran and exemplified by our beloved Prophet Muhammad . Ideally, these commandments should be so ingrained in our lives that there should be no requirement for us to constantly qualify our actions by saying that we are doing them to please Allah . This motivational statement is appropriate and perhaps necessary in our childhood when we are in our formative stage, but not when we have matured and become adults. As adults, all our acts of worship, charity, community service, professional development, good inter-personal relationships and fulfillment of our obligations, etc. should become an integral part of our personality and should be done without any need of reminding ourselves that we have to do these things to please Allah. The true motivation for doing something good should be a genuine conviction that this is the right thing to do. When we have developed this kind of inner belief, we have achieved a very high level of Iman (faith).
Dr. Waheed Siddiqee is Chairman, Interfaith Committee, United Muslims of America
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Older Comments:
AYYOOB FROM CANADA said:
I VERY MUCH AGREE WITH THE COMMON SENSE APPROACH OF DR. SIDDIQEE OF LOOKING AT OUR BASIC ISSUES.
2006-05-07
MUSLIM FROM TUNISIA said:
However we need to balance what he said
2005-01-27
MUSLIM FROM TUNISIA said:
I strongly agree with the author.
2005-01-27
JUST A GRANDMOTHER FROM USA said:
I really cannot tell whether this article is good or bad as far as representing the proper Islamic view of the five statements since I am not Muslim. I can say that the article sounds reasonable from a non-muslim point of view.
1. It seems to offer sound, pragmatic advice: "Muslims should develop a strong will to advance in the quest for knowledge and a sincere desire for the spirit of inquiry, build strong national character, and become united in the affairs affecting major problems." Muslims have historically led the world in math and science. The western renaisance was made possible by the preservation and advancement of knowledge by the Muslim civilization. Every school child learns the Algebra - our corruption of the Muslim name of a system of rules by which arithmetic works. Our computers use the arabic concept of zero. Many of the stars in the sky are known by the arabic names given to them by Muslim astronomers. I think many Muslims have forgotten who kept civilization going while Europe was wallowing through the Dark Ages. This is not the point of the article, but I wonder how many Muslims are taught that their civilization and way of life was superior to European (and American) culture for many centuries? One thing that held the Europeans back was their fanatical dedication to religious dogma and inflexibility when encountering new ideas.
2. On your charitible traditions (such as Zakat), the author makes a very valid point. If a poor person has zero, multiplying it tenfold still gives you zero. It is the large and stable middle class which have made the European and American nations so strong, inventive and prosperous. One of the foundations of this middle class is public education - not just religious education (which is undeniably of paramount importance), but education of the arts, sciences, math and history. Perhaps your wealthy men should be encouraged to create foundations for maintaining high quality schools and supporting scholars.
1. It seems to offer sound, pragmatic advice: "Muslims should develop a strong will to advance in the quest for knowledge and a sincere desire for the spirit of inquiry, build strong national character, and become united in the affairs affecting major problems." Muslims have historically led the world in math and science. The western renaisance was made possible by the preservation and advancement of knowledge by the Muslim civilization. Every school child learns the Algebra - our corruption of the Muslim name of a system of rules by which arithmetic works. Our computers use the arabic concept of zero. Many of the stars in the sky are known by the arabic names given to them by Muslim astronomers. I think many Muslims have forgotten who kept civilization going while Europe was wallowing through the Dark Ages. This is not the point of the article, but I wonder how many Muslims are taught that their civilization and way of life was superior to European (and American) culture for many centuries? One thing that held the Europeans back was their fanatical dedication to religious dogma and inflexibility when encountering new ideas.
2. On your charitible traditions (such as Zakat), the author makes a very valid point. If a poor person has zero, multiplying it tenfold still gives you zero. It is the large and stable middle class which have made the European and American nations so strong, inventive and prosperous. One of the foundations of this middle class is public education - not just religious education (which is undeniably of paramount importance), but education of the arts, sciences, math and history. Perhaps your wealthy men should be encouraged to create foundations for maintaining high quality schools and supporting scholars.
2004-05-26
NAOMI FROM ENGLAND said:
SALAMOU ALAYKOM, VERY NERVOUSLY I HAVE FELT MOVED TO WRITE AND SAY HOW WONDERFUL I FOUND THIS ARTICLE AND SOME OTHERS . I ONLY DISCOVERED THIS SITE PROPERLEY TODAY AND CANNOT TELL YOU HOW HAPPY I AM . I HAVE EXHAUSTED FEW OTHER SITES AND WAS LOOKING FOR SOMETHING ELSE TO STUDY AS I AM NEW. I PLAN TO READ EVERYTHING HERE I JUST WANTED TO THANK YOU,THE ARTICLES ARE VERY GOOD AND EXPLAIN A LOT CLEARLY TO ME THANK YOU NAOMI
2004-05-10
AYAZ AHMAD FROM CANADA said:
The author does have a right to express his personal views, which he has done with good intention. On some points, though, he fails to provide any reference from Quran or hadith to support his views.
1. What proportion of the Ummah is following deen or part of it in their daily affairs? Would Allah's help and bounty come when the people disobey Him in almost all aspects of life. What happened to bani Israel, on whom Allah had sent countless prophets and bounties? With regard to material success of the West, we need not get awed by it, as Allah had helped few ill equipped against many and mighty during the battle of Badr- the condition of help was solid Imaan.
2. Indeed if all of us were to obey Allah with sincerity and offer zakah, it would be helpful in eradicating the economic ills and, more importantly purifying our hearts. Allah does not need to use a calculator nor our money to bless people. Our Imaan is on the sayings of Allah and His prophet (p.b.u.h) and not our own judgement of affairs. Don't we hear how RasoolAllah pbuh and his companions (raa) could eat to their satisfaction from a single bowl of food.
3. Imaan is the prime condition for deeds to be rewarded in Aakhirah. Unless the author can provide evidence from Quran or hadith to prove otherwise.
4. A believer's actions in duniya (be it eating, sleeping, conducting business) becomes his aakhirah if done according to commandments of Allah and sunnah of RasoolAllah pbuh.
5. We need to remember Allah consciously at the start, middle and end of any act of worship to keep a check on our intention, to please Allah and only Allah, lest we get carried away by devil into something else. Any act needs to be considered with the hope Allah will accept it and with the fear it might get rejected.
May Allah forgive our mistakes and grant us true guidance..aameen!
1. What proportion of the Ummah is following deen or part of it in their daily affairs? Would Allah's help and bounty come when the people disobey Him in almost all aspects of life. What happened to bani Israel, on whom Allah had sent countless prophets and bounties? With regard to material success of the West, we need not get awed by it, as Allah had helped few ill equipped against many and mighty during the battle of Badr- the condition of help was solid Imaan.
2. Indeed if all of us were to obey Allah with sincerity and offer zakah, it would be helpful in eradicating the economic ills and, more importantly purifying our hearts. Allah does not need to use a calculator nor our money to bless people. Our Imaan is on the sayings of Allah and His prophet (p.b.u.h) and not our own judgement of affairs. Don't we hear how RasoolAllah pbuh and his companions (raa) could eat to their satisfaction from a single bowl of food.
3. Imaan is the prime condition for deeds to be rewarded in Aakhirah. Unless the author can provide evidence from Quran or hadith to prove otherwise.
4. A believer's actions in duniya (be it eating, sleeping, conducting business) becomes his aakhirah if done according to commandments of Allah and sunnah of RasoolAllah pbuh.
5. We need to remember Allah consciously at the start, middle and end of any act of worship to keep a check on our intention, to please Allah and only Allah, lest we get carried away by devil into something else. Any act needs to be considered with the hope Allah will accept it and with the fear it might get rejected.
May Allah forgive our mistakes and grant us true guidance..aameen!
2004-05-09
DON PELE FROM ENGLAND said:
Quran 16:125
Invite (all) to the Way of thy Lord with wisdom and beautiful exhortation; and argue with them in ways that are best and most gracious: for thy Lord knoweth best, who have strayed from His Path, and who receive guidance.
But Allah SWT made it very clear that anything you bring other than islam will be rejected. So just in the name of getting along nicely we muslims should not deceive others by stating that they can go to paradoise based on their deeds, sorry they will not according to the MOST HIGH.
Invite (all) to the Way of thy Lord with wisdom and beautiful exhortation; and argue with them in ways that are best and most gracious: for thy Lord knoweth best, who have strayed from His Path, and who receive guidance.
But Allah SWT made it very clear that anything you bring other than islam will be rejected. So just in the name of getting along nicely we muslims should not deceive others by stating that they can go to paradoise based on their deeds, sorry they will not according to the MOST HIGH.
2004-04-10
A.U.IMAM FROM NIGERIA said:
i strongly agree with the author of this article,may allah reward him in abundance.
2004-04-05
MOUHAMADOU BOP FROM SENEGAL/USA said:
First I want to thank and give credit for the author for raising these important matters even though I disagree with most of his opinion.
about #2, I think following the commandements of Allah(SWT) is the solution to solving problems in muslims countries and paying Zakat is one of them. We as muslims should never undermine this duty. even though the calculations provided by the author might seem to support his arguments, an important aspect we usually forget in Islam is the UNSEEN. by paying Zakat and following other commandements in our deen, Allah (SWT) can bring numerous blessings to our Ummah that goes beyond our imaginations.
Islam is a balance deen. We should be firm in respecting the different rituals such as performing the five daily prayers on time and preferably at the masjid, paying zakat and so. and also at the same time strive to be the best in our field and contibute in the communities where we are living.
about #2, I think following the commandements of Allah(SWT) is the solution to solving problems in muslims countries and paying Zakat is one of them. We as muslims should never undermine this duty. even though the calculations provided by the author might seem to support his arguments, an important aspect we usually forget in Islam is the UNSEEN. by paying Zakat and following other commandements in our deen, Allah (SWT) can bring numerous blessings to our Ummah that goes beyond our imaginations.
Islam is a balance deen. We should be firm in respecting the different rituals such as performing the five daily prayers on time and preferably at the masjid, paying zakat and so. and also at the same time strive to be the best in our field and contibute in the communities where we are living.
2004-04-03
SOHEL SHAIKH FROM INDIA said:
it is totally baseless, the author does not seem to have full knowledge of true ISLAM
2004-03-24
ABDUL AZEEM FROM UNITED ARAB EMIRATES said:
I agree with the points raised by Dr. Waheed in a partial sense. Especially when he's talking about the Zakat issue. We as muslims are required to have belief in certain things which are directly related to our faith. Beliving in the pre-ordainment or our destiny if one of it. Also we're required to seek for Halal things in our life, by doing so for example abstaining from eating pork, drinking alcohol and earning our livelihood by pure without any doubt Haraam means is required of us. In doing these acts Allah (subhana watallah) has promised great rewards which included multiplicaion of our wealth two fold (i.e. Barakat). So in this sense even if the 1-2% population pays their share of Zakat properly (meaning earned from Halal) will be sufficient for the 85% population. I'd here like to quote our beloved prophets Hadith (Narrated Abu Huraira: The Prophet said, "Leave me as I leave you) for the people who were before you were ruined because of their questions and their differences over their prophets. So, if I forbid you to do something, then keep away from it. And if I order you to do something, then do of it as much as you can.")
(Narrated 'Abdullah bin 'Amr: I heard the Prophet saying, "Allah will not deprive you of knowledge after he has given it to you, but it will be taken away through the death of the religious learned men with their knowledge. Then there will remain ignorant people who, when consulted, will give verdicts according to their opinions whereby they will mislead others and go astray." ) Taken from Sahih Bukhari.
Walaikum Asallam
(Narrated 'Abdullah bin 'Amr: I heard the Prophet saying, "Allah will not deprive you of knowledge after he has given it to you, but it will be taken away through the death of the religious learned men with their knowledge. Then there will remain ignorant people who, when consulted, will give verdicts according to their opinions whereby they will mislead others and go astray." ) Taken from Sahih Bukhari.
Walaikum Asallam
2004-03-23
MANSUR ABDULLAHI FROM NIGREIA said:
Assalamu alaikum,
Sir, i strugle agree with the Writer n may Allah reward him aboundantly,i will like to give examples with my country ie Nigeria most of the rech Men are giving out the Zakat not according to the teaching of Quran n hadiths,becos when one is going to give out arms hr suppose to follow the principle giving out by our beloved prophet,eg you see somebody shearing 200,000.00 by giving people 500.00 naira this not the he suppose to do atleast that amount above 200,000.00 he suppose to sheare it to 4-5people.
The second issue on people not prcticing islam but they live confortable yes Allah have told us we muslims that he will test our faith with something,also in Suratul Ankabut Allah is even asking question that can people just be left like that becos they say, they believed with........ also our beloved prophet may the peace n blessin of Allah be upon him said that this world is a prison to a mumin n pardaise of kafir.
Thank you.
Sir, i strugle agree with the Writer n may Allah reward him aboundantly,i will like to give examples with my country ie Nigeria most of the rech Men are giving out the Zakat not according to the teaching of Quran n hadiths,becos when one is going to give out arms hr suppose to follow the principle giving out by our beloved prophet,eg you see somebody shearing 200,000.00 by giving people 500.00 naira this not the he suppose to do atleast that amount above 200,000.00 he suppose to sheare it to 4-5people.
The second issue on people not prcticing islam but they live confortable yes Allah have told us we muslims that he will test our faith with something,also in Suratul Ankabut Allah is even asking question that can people just be left like that becos they say, they believed with........ also our beloved prophet may the peace n blessin of Allah be upon him said that this world is a prison to a mumin n pardaise of kafir.
Thank you.
2004-03-21
IBN ADHAM FROM BOSNIA said:
I think that these five statements represent the very basic facts that shouldn't be approached and discussed in the way it is done in this article.
All these things are true and we should stick to them and not discuss them looking for some alternatives.
I strongly disagree with author especially regarding the 3rd statement: "No matter how good a person you are, you will not go to Paradise if you do not have true Iman (Faith)"
We should seriously consider this statement and try to make ourselves better. Of course, we should not use it to judge other people - Allah s.w.t will judge us all. But, it shouldn't be questioned at all.
All these things are true and we should stick to them and not discuss them looking for some alternatives.
I strongly disagree with author especially regarding the 3rd statement: "No matter how good a person you are, you will not go to Paradise if you do not have true Iman (Faith)"
We should seriously consider this statement and try to make ourselves better. Of course, we should not use it to judge other people - Allah s.w.t will judge us all. But, it shouldn't be questioned at all.
2004-03-20
HEBA FROM FRANCE said:
It's interesting that the author tries to clarify some issues about the religion but for the last point I don't really agree with the author, I believe one should always renew their intention to please Allah and always remind themselves of Allah, and that doesn't make someone more childish. I'm in France, and i meet a lot of atheists, and their refusal to accept a religion is that they say they are adults and they don't need someone to tell them what to do and what not to do..that's why im saying that always seeking to do things to please Allah doesn't contradict with being "adults" and insisting on this vision of being adult may lead to arrogance
2004-03-18
MUJAHID ABDUL-MUSAWWIR EVANS FROM USA said:
Knowing and performing the practices of Islam is important,however, the living the spirual essence is essential. All humanbeing, i believe, begin life here with that essence. It is not to be forgotten or lost just by going through the motions and saying of practices.
2004-03-18
A ASAD FROM CANADA said:
AA wrwb,
You wrote," all our acts of worship...should be done without any need of reminding ourselves...to please Allah. The true motivation for doing something good should be a genuine conviction that this is the right thing to do."
My questions to you are, where does this genuine conviction originate from? By having this conviction (the act or process of convincing), aren't you reminding yourself of whether the act that you are about to do is in accordance with the Quran and Sunnah? When you do this, aren't you reminding yourself of Allah(SWT). I think you do, when you use your "genuine conviction" to judge b/t matters whether good of wrong, because Quran is the word of Allah(SWT)? In a nutshell, aren't you basically considering Allah's pleasure before you do that act, consciously/subconsciously asking yourself,"is Allah(SWT) going to accept this act from me when I carry it?" I would like to remind you of two other examples. One is our beloved Prophet's answer to Jibriel(as)'s question about Ihsan. That Ihsan is as if you see Allah(SWT) when you do an act of worship. If you are not at that level to see Allah(SWT), then be mindful that He(SWT) sees you. The second example is the journey of Prophet(saws) to Ta`if. After being inhumanely repelled, did not Rasoul(saws) supplicate to Allah(SWT) desiring to know that His Rab is not displeased with him(saws). This being the main objective of his supplication to the Rabul Alamin. Don't you sometimes want to know if your Rab is pleased with you when you sincerely do something and it doesn't go according to your will? I am pretty sure you do, if you don't then I would advise you to study your heart and review your pledge with Allah(SWT). An adult would appreciate and understand the true meaning of pleasing Allah(SWT) than a child would do. Trying to implant this understanding in children is similar to programming them to peform an act of worship not knowing the true meaning of that act of worship.
WS
You wrote," all our acts of worship...should be done without any need of reminding ourselves...to please Allah. The true motivation for doing something good should be a genuine conviction that this is the right thing to do."
My questions to you are, where does this genuine conviction originate from? By having this conviction (the act or process of convincing), aren't you reminding yourself of whether the act that you are about to do is in accordance with the Quran and Sunnah? When you do this, aren't you reminding yourself of Allah(SWT). I think you do, when you use your "genuine conviction" to judge b/t matters whether good of wrong, because Quran is the word of Allah(SWT)? In a nutshell, aren't you basically considering Allah's pleasure before you do that act, consciously/subconsciously asking yourself,"is Allah(SWT) going to accept this act from me when I carry it?" I would like to remind you of two other examples. One is our beloved Prophet's answer to Jibriel(as)'s question about Ihsan. That Ihsan is as if you see Allah(SWT) when you do an act of worship. If you are not at that level to see Allah(SWT), then be mindful that He(SWT) sees you. The second example is the journey of Prophet(saws) to Ta`if. After being inhumanely repelled, did not Rasoul(saws) supplicate to Allah(SWT) desiring to know that His Rab is not displeased with him(saws). This being the main objective of his supplication to the Rabul Alamin. Don't you sometimes want to know if your Rab is pleased with you when you sincerely do something and it doesn't go according to your will? I am pretty sure you do, if you don't then I would advise you to study your heart and review your pledge with Allah(SWT). An adult would appreciate and understand the true meaning of pleasing Allah(SWT) than a child would do. Trying to implant this understanding in children is similar to programming them to peform an act of worship not knowing the true meaning of that act of worship.
WS
2004-03-18
ABUBAKAR ADAMU FROM NIGERIA said:
i believe sir that the writer of this either has a surface knowledge the quran and sunnah or did not understand them properly,( with all due respect). THE WRITER SHOULD GO BACK AND STUDY THE TEACHINGS OF THE QURAN WHICH ADHERING TO THEM WILL MAKE ANY NATION successful,
2004-03-17
SYED DANIAL SYED TAHA FROM SINGAPORE said:
I really am stunned regarding some of the comments made and respecfully disagree with them. The problem with such 'modernist' interpretations is that we do not realise that it leads the Ummah down a slippery slope.
1. Many Quraninc ayats and authentic hadith emphasises our Beloved Nabi (saw) as the perfect example and 'walking Quran'. I agree that we should NOT only follow the externalities of Deen (like using the Miswak, Muslim men sporting beards, etc) but these externalities are IMPORTANT and should not be relagated to being called mere 'rituals'. To do so is dangerous. For example, most Muslims nowadays - even the five-time Namazi - do not consider it important to pray at the mosque. Yet, there are many authentic ahadith on how much emphasis our Beloved Nabi placed on Muslim men performing the fardh prayers at the mosque. One hadith reported that, had Rasullah (saw) not thought about the women and children, he would go to the houses in Madina and BURN those in which the menfolk did NOT perform their prayers at the mosque. It is not mere 'ritual' thaat we perform the fardh prayers in the mosque, as Allah swt sends barakah to the whole community who frequents the mosque.
2. Zakah is not ONLY based on 2.5% of savings. For example, Ulema has said that oil from the ground qualify as 'treasure' from the ground and would be 'zakatable' at 20%. It is NOT a coincidence that Allah swt has placed so much natural resources under Muslim control. The trouble is that these Muslim governments are not acting in an Islamic way.
3. Again, many Quranic verses and ahadith talks about those who have REJECTED FAITH to be the denizens of Jahannam. For eg, Surah Yasin talks about two Messengers being sent by Allah swt to a city (Ulema has mentioned the city Antioch) being swtrengthened by a third. The 'ashabul Qarya' (companions of the city) were destroyed by a 'Saihatun Wahidatun' (Single Shout) - except for Habib Bin Najar who believed in the messenger
1. Many Quraninc ayats and authentic hadith emphasises our Beloved Nabi (saw) as the perfect example and 'walking Quran'. I agree that we should NOT only follow the externalities of Deen (like using the Miswak, Muslim men sporting beards, etc) but these externalities are IMPORTANT and should not be relagated to being called mere 'rituals'. To do so is dangerous. For example, most Muslims nowadays - even the five-time Namazi - do not consider it important to pray at the mosque. Yet, there are many authentic ahadith on how much emphasis our Beloved Nabi placed on Muslim men performing the fardh prayers at the mosque. One hadith reported that, had Rasullah (saw) not thought about the women and children, he would go to the houses in Madina and BURN those in which the menfolk did NOT perform their prayers at the mosque. It is not mere 'ritual' thaat we perform the fardh prayers in the mosque, as Allah swt sends barakah to the whole community who frequents the mosque.
2. Zakah is not ONLY based on 2.5% of savings. For example, Ulema has said that oil from the ground qualify as 'treasure' from the ground and would be 'zakatable' at 20%. It is NOT a coincidence that Allah swt has placed so much natural resources under Muslim control. The trouble is that these Muslim governments are not acting in an Islamic way.
3. Again, many Quranic verses and ahadith talks about those who have REJECTED FAITH to be the denizens of Jahannam. For eg, Surah Yasin talks about two Messengers being sent by Allah swt to a city (Ulema has mentioned the city Antioch) being swtrengthened by a third. The 'ashabul Qarya' (companions of the city) were destroyed by a 'Saihatun Wahidatun' (Single Shout) - except for Habib Bin Najar who believed in the messenger
2004-03-17
MARIAH FROM MALAYSIA said:
I sincerely hope that those who oppose the ideas in this article do so because of their limitation in understading the language rather then the ideas.I reflected upon the issues and found that argument 5 most interesting for me. Most of the time we go around telling people we do things "because of Allah" and yet we openly disregard the true teachings of Islam and walk around with a holier-than-thou attitude. Arragonce is a real danger to our soul and all our 'charitable' acts will not be accepted if they are accompanied by the slightest tinge of arrogance. Wallahulam
2004-03-16
ADNAN FROM BOSNIA & HERZEG./ USA said:
Selam allaikum,
I was really left shocked, genuinely shocked after reading this comment. 2000 characters are not even close as to what I want to say, and I do not understand how someone with a doctorate degree can make such narrowly examined statements. Just a few points anyway.
1. Is there an Islamic state as there was once 1000 years ago? Is there a khalifa? Would this be considered going back to the Quran and Sunnah?
2. Saudi Arabia exports about 386 Billion barrels of oil yearly with the price of one barrel between $15-20. Now take 2.5% of that amount as if it was static for a year! Not to mention other countries. Also, the highest paid per capita income in the USA are the Muslims, believe it or not, even more that the Jews.This is since the Muslim population is growing and a lot of people either go to college or have a family business.
3. Just look at Quranic verses like 3:91 and 3:10 and there is no doubt in the heart that the Words of The Most Merciful are true and that verses of 3:85 and 3:19 - inne dina inda'Allhi-l-islam stands firm. There is no doubt that these are the Words of Allah and that they are TRUE.
4. The writer has a doctorate degree in what? Chemistry, science or Islamic studies? If it is the latter, let him ask himself why study Islam and he should understand the pleasure, enjoyment in seeking Islamic knowledge, since this is the true ilm.
5. All I can say is a paraphrase of a hadith of the best man to walk the Earth, Muhammed salalahu alejhi we salam, the last prophet, the reminder benefits the believer, and that good deeds to be accepted must meet two conditions: sincerity and be in accordance with the Quran and Sunnah.
I am very disappointed on this day that I had to read these words that lack so much wisdom that this religion of Islam consists of.
Selam allaikum
Adnan Memic
You say,"Minor differences in rituals and outwardly requirements should be left to individuals." All I can say is, what in the world do you m
I was really left shocked, genuinely shocked after reading this comment. 2000 characters are not even close as to what I want to say, and I do not understand how someone with a doctorate degree can make such narrowly examined statements. Just a few points anyway.
1. Is there an Islamic state as there was once 1000 years ago? Is there a khalifa? Would this be considered going back to the Quran and Sunnah?
2. Saudi Arabia exports about 386 Billion barrels of oil yearly with the price of one barrel between $15-20. Now take 2.5% of that amount as if it was static for a year! Not to mention other countries. Also, the highest paid per capita income in the USA are the Muslims, believe it or not, even more that the Jews.This is since the Muslim population is growing and a lot of people either go to college or have a family business.
3. Just look at Quranic verses like 3:91 and 3:10 and there is no doubt in the heart that the Words of The Most Merciful are true and that verses of 3:85 and 3:19 - inne dina inda'Allhi-l-islam stands firm. There is no doubt that these are the Words of Allah and that they are TRUE.
4. The writer has a doctorate degree in what? Chemistry, science or Islamic studies? If it is the latter, let him ask himself why study Islam and he should understand the pleasure, enjoyment in seeking Islamic knowledge, since this is the true ilm.
5. All I can say is a paraphrase of a hadith of the best man to walk the Earth, Muhammed salalahu alejhi we salam, the last prophet, the reminder benefits the believer, and that good deeds to be accepted must meet two conditions: sincerity and be in accordance with the Quran and Sunnah.
I am very disappointed on this day that I had to read these words that lack so much wisdom that this religion of Islam consists of.
Selam allaikum
Adnan Memic
You say,"Minor differences in rituals and outwardly requirements should be left to individuals." All I can say is, what in the world do you m
2004-03-14
AKBAR KHAN FROM CANADA said:
As-salaamu'Alaiykum,
Very good points Br. Souheir, I really appreciate the fact that you have simply ask one of hte most valid questions that all arabs in the Middle East and Africa should ask themselves. Where is our zakat going, why is it not getting there, and what is supposed to be done now that it is frozen. Well I cannot give you an answer, but I can give you my solidarity. I do not have the answers, we'll all just have to join forces across our cultural borders, and think of what we can do to unite with each other once again, as we were under the beautiful Islamic Khilafate that was dissassembled by British, French, and American forces when they started to turn Muslim against Muslim:Arab against Turk:Hindustani Muslim against Hindustani Muslim, etc, etc,..
I think the question we should ask Westerners is....what did Muslims have to do with the World War 1 and the murder of Prince Ferdinand? It's unfortunate that many muslims still today.
Other people on this website who are Muslims posting messages, have to one day or another, start to learn to take criticism, and stop spewing venom and anger at others who raise many important points such as those raised in this article. If we as a united body do not start to look at our problems, then we are the only ones who are going to be the losers. You can get as angry and hate-filled as you want, but it won't improve the situation.
Secondly, there are many viewpoints within Islam. I suggest to some people who are getting angry, to learn to respect the views of others and be okay with them. It will be better for you as long as you keep on living your life by example, and not mere words. For this reason, we all need to take a dose of criticism.
Very good points Br. Souheir, I really appreciate the fact that you have simply ask one of hte most valid questions that all arabs in the Middle East and Africa should ask themselves. Where is our zakat going, why is it not getting there, and what is supposed to be done now that it is frozen. Well I cannot give you an answer, but I can give you my solidarity. I do not have the answers, we'll all just have to join forces across our cultural borders, and think of what we can do to unite with each other once again, as we were under the beautiful Islamic Khilafate that was dissassembled by British, French, and American forces when they started to turn Muslim against Muslim:Arab against Turk:Hindustani Muslim against Hindustani Muslim, etc, etc,..
I think the question we should ask Westerners is....what did Muslims have to do with the World War 1 and the murder of Prince Ferdinand? It's unfortunate that many muslims still today.
Other people on this website who are Muslims posting messages, have to one day or another, start to learn to take criticism, and stop spewing venom and anger at others who raise many important points such as those raised in this article. If we as a united body do not start to look at our problems, then we are the only ones who are going to be the losers. You can get as angry and hate-filled as you want, but it won't improve the situation.
Secondly, there are many viewpoints within Islam. I suggest to some people who are getting angry, to learn to respect the views of others and be okay with them. It will be better for you as long as you keep on living your life by example, and not mere words. For this reason, we all need to take a dose of criticism.
2004-03-12
MRS. SOUHEIR TURKMANI FROM ENGLAND said:
Dear Sir
Is there in our Arab countries a system where the Zakat is channeld so it is istributed equally or according to the needs of the needy. I always ask my uncle to give the zakat to someone he knows who needs the money.
Also helping the people in Palestine is getting to be moe difficult to send money as you hear about money in banks been frozen or money from charities been frozen. Is there a way around this.
May Allah reward all of you for your efforts.
Al salmu alikum
Okhtak Souheir
Is there in our Arab countries a system where the Zakat is channeld so it is istributed equally or according to the needs of the needy. I always ask my uncle to give the zakat to someone he knows who needs the money.
Also helping the people in Palestine is getting to be moe difficult to send money as you hear about money in banks been frozen or money from charities been frozen. Is there a way around this.
May Allah reward all of you for your efforts.
Al salmu alikum
Okhtak Souheir
2004-03-11
PARANOID FROM INDIA said:
Wow!wow!wow!!
Not @ the article but @ the almost 90% of over 100 disagreeing comments posted here. Dr. Waheed, your sixth frequently made statement should be, "We Muslims disagree with almost every statement" made by one another.
Dear brothers, What's there in this Artcile that made you so jumpy. I read it again and yet again, but didn't find anything which goes against the ethos or ethics of Islam. I mean not a thing.
Most of you appear to be in disgreement with his statement no 3, then I sincerely advise you read this enlightening Article.
http://www.mostmerciful.com/self-centered.htm
And to those who disagree with his statement no 5, please read the para again and yet again and try to try to understand what the author means.
Not @ the article but @ the almost 90% of over 100 disagreeing comments posted here. Dr. Waheed, your sixth frequently made statement should be, "We Muslims disagree with almost every statement" made by one another.
Dear brothers, What's there in this Artcile that made you so jumpy. I read it again and yet again, but didn't find anything which goes against the ethos or ethics of Islam. I mean not a thing.
Most of you appear to be in disgreement with his statement no 3, then I sincerely advise you read this enlightening Article.
http://www.mostmerciful.com/self-centered.htm
And to those who disagree with his statement no 5, please read the para again and yet again and try to try to understand what the author means.
2004-03-11
NAJIM SAQIB FROM USA said:
This article just made me mad. I was not angery at the writer I was angery at all muslims who are "intelectuals" I have heard similar rubish many a times before.
I have only one questions for the writer. Have you read the Quran? If yes then you will know the answer to why muslims say you will not enter heven if you have not proclaimed the shahadah.
And its not a matter of interpertaion, it is clear, one can not even traslate it in any other way. If you want the reference please send me an email.
So then the question becomes, since its in the Quran and that is what we belive in, does the writer still want to remain muslim? since he clearly disagrees with the statement.
Thanks
I have only one questions for the writer. Have you read the Quran? If yes then you will know the answer to why muslims say you will not enter heven if you have not proclaimed the shahadah.
And its not a matter of interpertaion, it is clear, one can not even traslate it in any other way. If you want the reference please send me an email.
So then the question becomes, since its in the Quran and that is what we belive in, does the writer still want to remain muslim? since he clearly disagrees with the statement.
Thanks
2004-03-10
ABDULQAYYUM MOHAMMED FROM USA said:
Since when did participating and organizing Milad became a religious duty that will fetch reward in the hereafter. Has our holy prophet, peace be upon him, explicitly or implicitly advised muslims to conduct Milad. Has he celebrated his Milad during his life time. It's just an innovation Muslims have picked up in the Indian Subcontinent. During the period when we were ruled by British, we saw Christians celebrating the birth of Prophet Isa(Jesus), peace be upon him and we started celebrating Milad.
I agree with the comment made by Sama. It is sad to see how Islamicity is posting articles from people who don't have a clue as to what they are saying. It's like asking a carpenter what medicine to take.
I agree with the comment made by Sama. It is sad to see how Islamicity is posting articles from people who don't have a clue as to what they are saying. It's like asking a carpenter what medicine to take.
2004-03-10
MAYADA SHIBLY FROM USA said:
As-Salaam Alaikum, with all respect to the author of this article, I disagree completely with him regarding all the points excluding the second one. because it's not discussed in accordance to Islamic principals and values.
2004-03-10
ASHMA FROM INDIA said:
i appreciate that DR Waheed has made a comment on how he feels abt things, but i really think that he should have made more of an effort to find out abt these 5 statements in more detail.
it is improper to just condemn the beliefs that muslim ppl have gone on believing for centuries.
he is also right when he asks us to look for the worldly gains n how v can help ppl here too.
i think that Mr Waheed would be better off if he gave more details on what exactly he actually believes.
i do although disagree abt the last statement. there is lack of detail, n that makes it harder to grasp what is being said.
it is improper to just condemn the beliefs that muslim ppl have gone on believing for centuries.
he is also right when he asks us to look for the worldly gains n how v can help ppl here too.
i think that Mr Waheed would be better off if he gave more details on what exactly he actually believes.
i do although disagree abt the last statement. there is lack of detail, n that makes it harder to grasp what is being said.
2004-03-10
ALASSANE ABEIDY DIAKITE FROM ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF MAURITANIA said:
I am very pleased to see that our Umma produces talents such as the author of the article. He deserves my respect and my admiration for this essay. I completely agree with him and think that his approach deserve maximum dissemination and support.
Regards,
Alassane
Regards,
Alassane
2004-03-10
ABDUL RAZZAK FROM KUWAIT said:
I am not agreed with your view as it seems you donot study properly Quraan and Saheeh Ahadees please read throughly and study than give such articals tks
2004-03-10
ZUBAIR YUNUS FROM UK said:
There are more than one billion muslims in the world which is the 1/5 th of the total worlds pop.so we are not the 15% as you say that that the world is non-muslim 85%.
Moreover, all are supposed to be muslims ideally, however i am convinced that as all the individuals look differently and are unique in the facial looks and there miraculous DNA they all think in a different way through there heart as well as ther mind. So your article is justifiable.
Moreover, all are supposed to be muslims ideally, however i am convinced that as all the individuals look differently and are unique in the facial looks and there miraculous DNA they all think in a different way through there heart as well as ther mind. So your article is justifiable.
2004-03-10
BILAL FROM USA said:
Assalam u alikum
I disagree with many things in this article. Of these, I disagree most with what the author had to say about the third statement. It is said many times in the Quran and Ahadith, Allah will forgive anything but SHIRK(Associating anyone or anything with God).
Abu Musa related that Rasulullah(PBUH) said:
"No one is more patient than Allah. Men attribute a son to Him, yet He preserves them and provide for them." (Bukhari, Muslim)
Allah u Akbar. How much more greater wrong can you do than praise, worship, or ask someone OTHER than Allah who continues to provide for you with EVERTHING you have, EVERYDAY.
Please IslamiCity should not allow such opinions on their website. Thousands read from this website and can be misinformed.
May Allah have his everlasting Mercy on us.
Bilal
I disagree with many things in this article. Of these, I disagree most with what the author had to say about the third statement. It is said many times in the Quran and Ahadith, Allah will forgive anything but SHIRK(Associating anyone or anything with God).
Abu Musa related that Rasulullah(PBUH) said:
"No one is more patient than Allah. Men attribute a son to Him, yet He preserves them and provide for them." (Bukhari, Muslim)
Allah u Akbar. How much more greater wrong can you do than praise, worship, or ask someone OTHER than Allah who continues to provide for you with EVERTHING you have, EVERYDAY.
Please IslamiCity should not allow such opinions on their website. Thousands read from this website and can be misinformed.
May Allah have his everlasting Mercy on us.
Bilal
2004-03-10
LUCY EL SHERIF FROM CANADA said:
This is a fantastic article that is so true. If more people in our ummah thought like Dr. Siddiqee, we would be much better off. I for one will do my best to show this to other Muslims by example.
Thank you Dr. Siddiqee, may Allah reward you for your wise words.
Thank you Dr. Siddiqee, may Allah reward you for your wise words.
2004-03-10
UMAIR AHMED KHAN said:
In the name of Allah, the most gracious, the most merciful.
It is really very sad to read the articles written by the people who do not have even the basic knowledge of Islam. I wish this author would have read the Quran before attempting to write such a misguided article. Didn't he read the verse of the Quran in which ALLAH says: And whoso seeketh as religion other than the (Islam)Surrender (to Allah) it will not be accepted from him, and he will be a loser in the Hereafter.
How can the ignorant author made such a statement that says disbelievers can go to paradise.
It is a big tragedy that there are some ignorant people in our Ummah who are trying to misguide Muslims.
May Allah guide the author.
It is really very sad to read the articles written by the people who do not have even the basic knowledge of Islam. I wish this author would have read the Quran before attempting to write such a misguided article. Didn't he read the verse of the Quran in which ALLAH says: And whoso seeketh as religion other than the (Islam)Surrender (to Allah) it will not be accepted from him, and he will be a loser in the Hereafter.
How can the ignorant author made such a statement that says disbelievers can go to paradise.
It is a big tragedy that there are some ignorant people in our Ummah who are trying to misguide Muslims.
May Allah guide the author.
2004-03-10
MUSTAFA FROM USA said:
I disagree with this article due to its complete lack of respect and regard for the Quran.
Although it is not for us to judge, "those who believe and do good deeds, they shall be awarded the gardens of paradise".
We should think more about the herafter because, "The life of this world is nothing but an illusion".
Everything we do should be to please Allah, because, "We have not created jinns and mankind except to worship Me."
Although it is not for us to judge, "those who believe and do good deeds, they shall be awarded the gardens of paradise".
We should think more about the herafter because, "The life of this world is nothing but an illusion".
Everything we do should be to please Allah, because, "We have not created jinns and mankind except to worship Me."
2004-03-10
L.E. FROM AMERICA said:
This was a very informative article, Inshallah more muslim read it...
2004-03-09
SAMA FROM USA said:
As salam alaikum,
It is sad to see how Islamicity is posting articles from people who don't have a clue as to what they are saying. It's like asking a carpenter what medicine to take. The brother in this article, I wonder how qualified is he in giving out his "OPINION" -- Islam is a religion based on Quran and sound Ahadith. If everyone has their own meaning and interpretation, how are we going to remain as one Ummah? It is unfortunate that we are giving a platform for people who have very limited knowledge to share their ideas which could confuse the rest. I sincerely ask -- What are Br.Waheed Siddiqee's qualifications? Is he an Imam? Has he gone to any school which teaches about Islam? Don't get me wrong--- This is the same question I'd ask my doctor if he is giving me an opinion -- IS HE ADEQUATELY QUALIFIED TO ANSWER THESE QUESTIONS?
If he is, then I apologise for misunderstanding on my part. May Allah(SWT) forgive us our sins and show us the straight path.
It is sad to see how Islamicity is posting articles from people who don't have a clue as to what they are saying. It's like asking a carpenter what medicine to take. The brother in this article, I wonder how qualified is he in giving out his "OPINION" -- Islam is a religion based on Quran and sound Ahadith. If everyone has their own meaning and interpretation, how are we going to remain as one Ummah? It is unfortunate that we are giving a platform for people who have very limited knowledge to share their ideas which could confuse the rest. I sincerely ask -- What are Br.Waheed Siddiqee's qualifications? Is he an Imam? Has he gone to any school which teaches about Islam? Don't get me wrong--- This is the same question I'd ask my doctor if he is giving me an opinion -- IS HE ADEQUATELY QUALIFIED TO ANSWER THESE QUESTIONS?
If he is, then I apologise for misunderstanding on my part. May Allah(SWT) forgive us our sins and show us the straight path.
2004-03-09
AHMAD BELLO FROM NIGERIA said:
No. The tools the Prophet gave us against error are the Quran & the Sunnah; historical sacredness is not one of them. Moreover, none of these 5 statements is among the over 70 branches of Faith, as elucidated by Al-Baihaqi.
1. There're many things that Muslims don't do right, e.g. electing [if & when they're allowed] CAPABLE & TRUSTWORTHY people into AND upholding the TRUST of public offices, JUSTICE to all people including just distribution of wealth, the RULE OF LAW, tolerating dissent, referring all disputes to the Quran & the Sunnah, and governance based on consent & consultation, as Ibn Taymiyya explains. There's also our disrespect for the NATURAL LAWS OF ALLAH, e.g. on patience, hard work and rest, cleanliness, gradual process, the necessity & priority of knowledge, of understanding over rote learning, of quality over quantity, of objectives over literal meanings, of research and planning, of primary duties over secondary requirements & voluntary deeds, of personal duties over public duties, of the rights of the public over the rights of the individual, of allegiance to Allah & Islam over allegiance to tribe & individuals, honesty, balance & proportion, tolerance, etc as Qaradawi explains. This is what our imams mean.
2. Zakah is the minimum financial contribution, predicated on good political leadership. As a hadith explains there's more financial obligation than the Zakah. However, if the minimum's not given and there's corrupt leadership poverty'll remain our lot! That's what's meant. Forget the statistics.
3. The 'general understanding' is the one supported by the Quran & the Sunnah. That's also the analogous position of Xianity! The arithmetic in the article's irrelevant. In general terms, Muslims will end up in Paradise, non-Muslims go to Hell. It is not playing God to say this; that's the Law.
4. The statement's true; the explanation is an allegation!
5. The statement's true at all stages: 'ACTIONS ARE JUDGED BY INTENTIONS...' Stop the quibbl
1. There're many things that Muslims don't do right, e.g. electing [if & when they're allowed] CAPABLE & TRUSTWORTHY people into AND upholding the TRUST of public offices, JUSTICE to all people including just distribution of wealth, the RULE OF LAW, tolerating dissent, referring all disputes to the Quran & the Sunnah, and governance based on consent & consultation, as Ibn Taymiyya explains. There's also our disrespect for the NATURAL LAWS OF ALLAH, e.g. on patience, hard work and rest, cleanliness, gradual process, the necessity & priority of knowledge, of understanding over rote learning, of quality over quantity, of objectives over literal meanings, of research and planning, of primary duties over secondary requirements & voluntary deeds, of personal duties over public duties, of the rights of the public over the rights of the individual, of allegiance to Allah & Islam over allegiance to tribe & individuals, honesty, balance & proportion, tolerance, etc as Qaradawi explains. This is what our imams mean.
2. Zakah is the minimum financial contribution, predicated on good political leadership. As a hadith explains there's more financial obligation than the Zakah. However, if the minimum's not given and there's corrupt leadership poverty'll remain our lot! That's what's meant. Forget the statistics.
3. The 'general understanding' is the one supported by the Quran & the Sunnah. That's also the analogous position of Xianity! The arithmetic in the article's irrelevant. In general terms, Muslims will end up in Paradise, non-Muslims go to Hell. It is not playing God to say this; that's the Law.
4. The statement's true; the explanation is an allegation!
5. The statement's true at all stages: 'ACTIONS ARE JUDGED BY INTENTIONS...' Stop the quibbl
2004-03-09
AZEEM SYED FROM INDIA/USA said:
Assalam-alaikum...
Brother Waheed has put up a nice article, but forgot one basic thing that inorder to understand Quran and sunnah, you need to approach a Islamic scholar. Br. Waheed has taken the very literal meaning of the 5 points and commented on it. Ask an Islamic scholar and he can talk for hours explaining the underlying moral of these 5 points.
Who can be the best interpreter of Quran than our beloved prophet (pbuh). Who can be the best example of how to live life ? Indeed of beloved prophet (pbuh). During early days of Islam, Muslims were the most progressive and successful people of all, because they hold steadfast to Quran and sunnah, and followed them as advised by our beloved prophet (pbuh). Now Muslims are deviating from the basic and fundamental principles of Islam and this is the main cause of their failure. The only way back to sucess is by being a true muslim as taught by our beloved prophet (pbuh).
May allah guide all of us and protect us from the evil. Ameen.
Brother Waheed has put up a nice article, but forgot one basic thing that inorder to understand Quran and sunnah, you need to approach a Islamic scholar. Br. Waheed has taken the very literal meaning of the 5 points and commented on it. Ask an Islamic scholar and he can talk for hours explaining the underlying moral of these 5 points.
Who can be the best interpreter of Quran than our beloved prophet (pbuh). Who can be the best example of how to live life ? Indeed of beloved prophet (pbuh). During early days of Islam, Muslims were the most progressive and successful people of all, because they hold steadfast to Quran and sunnah, and followed them as advised by our beloved prophet (pbuh). Now Muslims are deviating from the basic and fundamental principles of Islam and this is the main cause of their failure. The only way back to sucess is by being a true muslim as taught by our beloved prophet (pbuh).
May allah guide all of us and protect us from the evil. Ameen.
2004-03-09
AMINE RAKAB, M.D. FROM USA said:
Islam is a peacefull religion...I disagree with some of his points..Thanks
2004-03-09
ADAM IBRAHIM MUHAMMAD said:
I disagree totally with 1-3, agree partially with 4 and condemned in its entirety 5.
You see we have to be very careful the statements we make about this beatiful deen especially if our knowledge of it is minimal. I'm not saying Dr. Waheed is an illiterate in the Deen on the contrary he displays a good mastery of it especially when he can make comparisons with others. But to know fully who is Allah and what Islam really means is to have the knowledge of TRUE tauhid (aqeedah), understand what your purpose really is in Islam. This, 'm afraid, is what Dr Waheed lacks.
Imagine saying that the unbelievers' good deeds in this world is being reckon by Allah, while clearly He has stated unequivocally in the holy Quran that ALL their actions will go to waste. Or saying that we should not worship in order that to please Allah. Who do we please then? The Satan? Cos this is the opposite of God. Does the Dr. knows that everything you do as long as you do it the way of Allah is recorded as act of worship and will be rewarded as such?
On the question of Zakkah. You don't compare the wealth that zakkah is being taken out from it to the one that isn't, in terms of your arithmetic of percentages. As long as zakkah is given by the wealthy, nomatter how few they are(.001%?) cos of the way Allah will bless that wealth , it will be enough for the population of that community. This is the FACT.
Please Dr. go back to the school of Aqidah. And we should not despair, Nasr is coming! May Allah continue to bless the muslim world, Ameen.
You see we have to be very careful the statements we make about this beatiful deen especially if our knowledge of it is minimal. I'm not saying Dr. Waheed is an illiterate in the Deen on the contrary he displays a good mastery of it especially when he can make comparisons with others. But to know fully who is Allah and what Islam really means is to have the knowledge of TRUE tauhid (aqeedah), understand what your purpose really is in Islam. This, 'm afraid, is what Dr Waheed lacks.
Imagine saying that the unbelievers' good deeds in this world is being reckon by Allah, while clearly He has stated unequivocally in the holy Quran that ALL their actions will go to waste. Or saying that we should not worship in order that to please Allah. Who do we please then? The Satan? Cos this is the opposite of God. Does the Dr. knows that everything you do as long as you do it the way of Allah is recorded as act of worship and will be rewarded as such?
On the question of Zakkah. You don't compare the wealth that zakkah is being taken out from it to the one that isn't, in terms of your arithmetic of percentages. As long as zakkah is given by the wealthy, nomatter how few they are(.001%?) cos of the way Allah will bless that wealth , it will be enough for the population of that community. This is the FACT.
Please Dr. go back to the school of Aqidah. And we should not despair, Nasr is coming! May Allah continue to bless the muslim world, Ameen.
2004-03-09
SIRAJUDEEN VA FROM QATAR said:
Zakat is not indtended for distributing as a one time food expense. But the distribution must be with a good plan to make a minority of most deserving to catch up their living by themselves and enable them to pay zakat of their own. Likewise within a short period the goal can be achieved.
IF A PERSON DOES NOT ADMIT THE EXISTENCE OF ALLAH... WHATEVER GOOD DEEDS HE PERFORMED... WHAT HE WANTS FROM ALLAH.. NOTHING. ALL OUR DEEDS ARE FOR WHAT WE DO. IF WE DO SOMETHING FOR PLEASING ALLAH YOU WILL BE REWARDED. IF YOU DO FOR PLEASING A PERSON FOR A REASON OR OTHER, YOU WILL HAVE THAT ONLY.
IF A PERSON DOES NOT ADMIT THE EXISTENCE OF ALLAH... WHATEVER GOOD DEEDS HE PERFORMED... WHAT HE WANTS FROM ALLAH.. NOTHING. ALL OUR DEEDS ARE FOR WHAT WE DO. IF WE DO SOMETHING FOR PLEASING ALLAH YOU WILL BE REWARDED. IF YOU DO FOR PLEASING A PERSON FOR A REASON OR OTHER, YOU WILL HAVE THAT ONLY.
2004-03-09
ABU SA'AD FROM USA said:
The views in this article are incorrect. They are based on logic and intellect alone.
Anybody with little knowledge and eemaan knows better. I would like to very briefly mention a point or two on each of them:
About the first point, I remind us of the hadith where the Messenger salallahu alayhi wasallam (saws) said (roughly): "you will be divided into 73 sects and 72 of them are in hellfire except the one.. one who holds fast to the Qur'an and my Sunnah." What best way could there be to "become united in the affairs affecting major problems"! There are several other examples where it is made crystal clear that going back to the Quran and the Sunnah is THE solution.
About the second point, we do not use our limited logic this way. A beautiful statement from Ali radiallahu anhu (roughly): "if religion were to be based on logic, we would not wipe the top portion of the socks (rather the bottom).. when performing the wudu."
We submit to Allah's command without questioning. This unconditional submission is the essence of Islam. I would be interested in knowing if the author believes in the night journey of the Prophet (saws), because it is not "logical" to travel to the heavens and back in one night.
Third point: what about the statement of our Prophet (saws) where he said his unlce Abu Talib -- indeed a good human being who supported the Messenger (saws) -- would be in hellfire since he did not accept Allah to be the only God and Muhammad?
For the fourth point: Our Prophet (saws) said (roughly): "be in this life like a stranger.. or a traveller on a path." And what about the famous hadith of "hubbud duniya..karaihat-il maut..?"
Fifth point, so what's wrong in saying we do everything for the sake of Allah? Isn't that the real purpose of our life. Allah ta'ala says (rough translation): "I have not created the Jinn or the mankind except that they worship me."
Above ahadith are sahih to the best of my knowledge. May Allah
Anybody with little knowledge and eemaan knows better. I would like to very briefly mention a point or two on each of them:
About the first point, I remind us of the hadith where the Messenger salallahu alayhi wasallam (saws) said (roughly): "you will be divided into 73 sects and 72 of them are in hellfire except the one.. one who holds fast to the Qur'an and my Sunnah." What best way could there be to "become united in the affairs affecting major problems"! There are several other examples where it is made crystal clear that going back to the Quran and the Sunnah is THE solution.
About the second point, we do not use our limited logic this way. A beautiful statement from Ali radiallahu anhu (roughly): "if religion were to be based on logic, we would not wipe the top portion of the socks (rather the bottom).. when performing the wudu."
We submit to Allah's command without questioning. This unconditional submission is the essence of Islam. I would be interested in knowing if the author believes in the night journey of the Prophet (saws), because it is not "logical" to travel to the heavens and back in one night.
Third point: what about the statement of our Prophet (saws) where he said his unlce Abu Talib -- indeed a good human being who supported the Messenger (saws) -- would be in hellfire since he did not accept Allah to be the only God and Muhammad?
For the fourth point: Our Prophet (saws) said (roughly): "be in this life like a stranger.. or a traveller on a path." And what about the famous hadith of "hubbud duniya..karaihat-il maut..?"
Fifth point, so what's wrong in saying we do everything for the sake of Allah? Isn't that the real purpose of our life. Allah ta'ala says (rough translation): "I have not created the Jinn or the mankind except that they worship me."
Above ahadith are sahih to the best of my knowledge. May Allah
2004-03-08
ARSHAD AHMED FROM INDIA said:
When we follow the commandments of Allah (swt) in the way shown by Prophet Muhammad (sas), then we'll get a great reward in paradise and also good provisions for this world. The Prophet (sas) said that live in this world like a traveller, meaning dont indulge too much in the worldly affairs. The reason for the disbelievers amassing great wealth is that they dont have any share in the hereafter. The Companions of Prophet (sas) strived hard to get all the Sunnah in their lives and followed the commandments of Allah. Thats the reason, the whole world was at their feet. So Insha Allah as long as we enjoin good and forbid evil, the help of Allah (swt) will come to us.
2004-03-08
BLAISE J. ARENA FROM USA said:
I have a Christian background, however, I do not actively practice and no longer believe in any God. However, I have a strong belief and commitment to leading a good, useful and moral life. Religious belief is not necessary for this. I found the comments of Dr. Siddiqie to be quite resonable. His comments would serve as good advice for Christians as well, some of whom often take the Bible too literally and seriously. What Dr. Siddiquie is really saying is - keep the "big picture" in mind, don't get stuck in small details.
2004-03-08
TONY S. FROM USA said:
Salamu Alaikum,
I am a Muslim and proud of it. I do agree with the author on most of what he says. It is just a matter of logic. It would be a travesty to believe otherwise. Most of the so called Muslims of nowadays are infused with the worst of all human traits: envy, jealousy, laziness, obscurantism, and the list goes on. One cannot deny this. Otherwise, the Muslims would have been in much better shape. I would make very few exceptions here especially regarding Malaysia and probably one or two other Muslim states.
Yes, Islam is the last revelation; yes Islam wants us to live a very noble and honorable life; yes Islam advises virtue and forbids vice. Yes Islam wants us to be the best examples for all to see, not demons of hate and violence. Muslims are in no place to force anyone to convert; Muslims are in no place to mistreat others just because they do not believe in God and our Prophet (pbuh).
I am tired of all the dirty so called "Muslims" who claim to be the embodiment of Allah. I tell them: go and get a life. Yes to dialogue, and yes to coexistence. This is all we can do and say. Otherwise, the world will be turned upside down. Where does it say that we have to kill the Jews or Christians? Come one wake up! All we can all do is explain to them what our cherished faith stands for. Islam remains to be the way to the moon, to enlightenment, to concord, to peace, and eventually to Paradise.
I am a Muslim and proud of it. I do agree with the author on most of what he says. It is just a matter of logic. It would be a travesty to believe otherwise. Most of the so called Muslims of nowadays are infused with the worst of all human traits: envy, jealousy, laziness, obscurantism, and the list goes on. One cannot deny this. Otherwise, the Muslims would have been in much better shape. I would make very few exceptions here especially regarding Malaysia and probably one or two other Muslim states.
Yes, Islam is the last revelation; yes Islam wants us to live a very noble and honorable life; yes Islam advises virtue and forbids vice. Yes Islam wants us to be the best examples for all to see, not demons of hate and violence. Muslims are in no place to force anyone to convert; Muslims are in no place to mistreat others just because they do not believe in God and our Prophet (pbuh).
I am tired of all the dirty so called "Muslims" who claim to be the embodiment of Allah. I tell them: go and get a life. Yes to dialogue, and yes to coexistence. This is all we can do and say. Otherwise, the world will be turned upside down. Where does it say that we have to kill the Jews or Christians? Come one wake up! All we can all do is explain to them what our cherished faith stands for. Islam remains to be the way to the moon, to enlightenment, to concord, to peace, and eventually to Paradise.
2004-03-08
ZINEDINE FROM MOROCCO said:
Salaam brothers & sisters,
I agree with all four points Dr. Siddique talked about except for point 3 where he stated: " No matter how good a person you are you will not go to Paradise if you do not have true Iman (Faith)
The general understanding of this statement is that all Muslims, by virtue of the fact that they believe in one God and Prophet Muhammad being His last prophet, are assured a place in paradise after being punished for their sins. On the other hand, all other people, who do not believe in the basic faith of Islam, will forever be condemned to Hell after being rewarded for their good deeds.
Now, there are billions of non-Muslims. In fact, 80% of the world population is not Muslim, primarily because they happened to be born in other faiths and are sincere followers of their faiths. Most of them are wonderful human beings living a virtuous life. For Muslims to claim that all of them are condemned to hell because they have not recited the Kalima, seems very severe and smacks of arrogance." you missed to read this Quranic verse: "Whoever chooses other than Islam as his/her religion, it will not be accepted from them and they shall be among the losers in the hereafter". Yes, Allah may forgive good peoples that died knowing nothing about Islam and may grant them paradise based on their ignorance about Islam but how can you possibly believe that if a non Muslim that receives a good Dawa still chose another religion other than Islam will still enter paradise? -When was the last time you read the Quran brother Siddique? I doubt you even know the Quranic verse above but I hope you will change your mind after reading it.
I agree with all four points Dr. Siddique talked about except for point 3 where he stated: " No matter how good a person you are you will not go to Paradise if you do not have true Iman (Faith)
The general understanding of this statement is that all Muslims, by virtue of the fact that they believe in one God and Prophet Muhammad being His last prophet, are assured a place in paradise after being punished for their sins. On the other hand, all other people, who do not believe in the basic faith of Islam, will forever be condemned to Hell after being rewarded for their good deeds.
Now, there are billions of non-Muslims. In fact, 80% of the world population is not Muslim, primarily because they happened to be born in other faiths and are sincere followers of their faiths. Most of them are wonderful human beings living a virtuous life. For Muslims to claim that all of them are condemned to hell because they have not recited the Kalima, seems very severe and smacks of arrogance." you missed to read this Quranic verse: "Whoever chooses other than Islam as his/her religion, it will not be accepted from them and they shall be among the losers in the hereafter". Yes, Allah may forgive good peoples that died knowing nothing about Islam and may grant them paradise based on their ignorance about Islam but how can you possibly believe that if a non Muslim that receives a good Dawa still chose another religion other than Islam will still enter paradise? -When was the last time you read the Quran brother Siddique? I doubt you even know the Quranic verse above but I hope you will change your mind after reading it.
2004-03-08
MUNIR MAHMOOD FROM USA said:
ASAK,
This is the most repugnant article I have ever read by a muslim. He has completely trashed the aqeedah in Islam and also Taheed to some extent by his "interfaith" oriented generalizations.
I want to ask him only one question:- If what he says is true, then there is no point being a muslim at all and there was no need for Prophet Muhammad (saw) mission at all !!! Sounds absurd isn't it ? Right...because it is absurd.
This is the most repugnant article I have ever read by a muslim. He has completely trashed the aqeedah in Islam and also Taheed to some extent by his "interfaith" oriented generalizations.
I want to ask him only one question:- If what he says is true, then there is no point being a muslim at all and there was no need for Prophet Muhammad (saw) mission at all !!! Sounds absurd isn't it ? Right...because it is absurd.
2004-03-08
DAWUD FROM UNITED STATES said:
Asalamualakem! i just wanted to say that when i read this article it was almost like some of my questions were being directly answered by Allah! and i totally agree with every answer.
2004-03-08
MAYSA FROM USA said:
I am currently part of the interfaith in my area and I have never found a need to put down any of Allah's teachings to please the non-Muslims. What you are doing br. is causing confusion and dissent within the Muslim population,especially those muslims who claim to hate interfaith,(you know who you are). Interfaith for me is a forum where I can express my religion and hopeful enter the heart of some non-muslim and cause him to accept Islam, somewhere in time.
Yes, Muslims will only be succeful fully, that means in this life and in the hear after if they follow the Quran and Sunnah, which includes getting an education and being a part of society.
Second, Allah should be the reason we do everything "Say: 'Truly my prayer and service of sacrifice, my life and my death are
(all) for Allah, the Cherisher of the worlds.'"
(Q:6.162) Get it!
Third, there is a huge population of very ($$$) wealthy muslims who do not pay Zakat if they did we could improve the standard of the Ummah.
Fourth, the Quran clearly says " today I have completed your religion and have chose the religion of Islam"
So just a few things to think about,before speaking the unspeakable about Islam.
Salam
Maysa
Yes, Muslims will only be succeful fully, that means in this life and in the hear after if they follow the Quran and Sunnah, which includes getting an education and being a part of society.
Second, Allah should be the reason we do everything "Say: 'Truly my prayer and service of sacrifice, my life and my death are
(all) for Allah, the Cherisher of the worlds.'"
(Q:6.162) Get it!
Third, there is a huge population of very ($$$) wealthy muslims who do not pay Zakat if they did we could improve the standard of the Ummah.
Fourth, the Quran clearly says " today I have completed your religion and have chose the religion of Islam"
So just a few things to think about,before speaking the unspeakable about Islam.
Salam
Maysa
2004-03-08
FRESHMAN POLI FROM USA said:
An attack on Aqeedah, and a clandestine approach to make one lose Taqwa for GOD. Because in reality, it's telling one to not be as serious in deen and Sunnah. I almost puked when reading this. I believe that this way of thinking and the thinking of a strong willed and fearful Muslim is seemingly becoming a dilemna for many. People have become wavarying scenics battle berween good and evil. People follow their own desires and I'm admonishing my self first. Cleary, we (muslims)know what we should do, but it becomes an issue of implementing true Islam in our lives for reasons of: too many to mention. Let us b careful and mindful that there is a call to something other than Taqwa for GOD and Deening upon the Sunnah. People make mistakes and at times become lazy, and to spread this out in an article and put into publication, is very dangeruos. If the author feels this way he or she should have kept it personal and ask GOD for guidance for the Ummah, oneself and should abstain from speaking without any knowledge.
May GOD help us.
The focal point of any interfaith dialogue is that the Muslim ( should say) All of you is going to hell, and that's it. Because the scholars amongst the different religions already know. And the basis of Comparative Religion is enmity. Know one believes that those who are not his or her faith is going to paradise. And the scholars amongst them or us already know it.
May GOD guide us.
May GOD help us.
The focal point of any interfaith dialogue is that the Muslim ( should say) All of you is going to hell, and that's it. Because the scholars amongst the different religions already know. And the basis of Comparative Religion is enmity. Know one believes that those who are not his or her faith is going to paradise. And the scholars amongst them or us already know it.
May GOD guide us.
2004-03-08
MOHAMMAD Z. IQBAL FROM USA/PAKISTAN said:
With reference to Dr. Sidiqee's 3rd point, it is correct that we are not to decide who goes to hell or heaven, but God has made a clear distinction between people of Eman and those that commit shirk (including non-muslims and muslims). It is true that many non-muslims are nice people, but their efforts are limited to making their worldly life better and, therefore, as we can see they do have created nice societies to live in. The question is whether they recognize that all they have including themselves is from God. If not then they will be judged according to criteria provided by God for mushrikin. Dr. Sidiqee, being involved in Intefaith activities does not allow a muslim to be able to bend islamic rules to appear nice to the non-muslims. Islam has set certain criteria (especially about important issues like tauhid), and any divergence is unacceptable.
With regards to your comments about our religious leaders, Islam never expects its folowers to blindly listen to a certain religious scholar. Thats why we have common sense. The problem is that we don't care to spend time to study islam ourselves and, therefore, should not complain about the "religious leaders".
Lastly, Iqbal a poet from the "Indian Sub-continent"??. Please!!. It would be wise for us to stop using non-sensical geographic terms coined by the British to explain their territorial gains. The name is as non-sense as the use of the term "asia" to define people as different as the Japanese and the arabs. How about Iqbal the Pakistani poet or the muslim poet. A little bit of historical research will tell you that Kashmir, where Iqbal was from, has never been a part of the "Indian subcontinent" except for a brief period under the british and the mughals, who themselves were foreigners and not "Indian".
With regards to your comments about our religious leaders, Islam never expects its folowers to blindly listen to a certain religious scholar. Thats why we have common sense. The problem is that we don't care to spend time to study islam ourselves and, therefore, should not complain about the "religious leaders".
Lastly, Iqbal a poet from the "Indian Sub-continent"??. Please!!. It would be wise for us to stop using non-sensical geographic terms coined by the British to explain their territorial gains. The name is as non-sense as the use of the term "asia" to define people as different as the Japanese and the arabs. How about Iqbal the Pakistani poet or the muslim poet. A little bit of historical research will tell you that Kashmir, where Iqbal was from, has never been a part of the "Indian subcontinent" except for a brief period under the british and the mughals, who themselves were foreigners and not "Indian".
2004-03-08
SAM said:
I would like to comment on the fact that we should always have the intention to please Allah when we do anything. This intention is actually defined in the Hadith. In fact if we did had the intention to please Allah when we do anything, we will find its reward with Allah. On the other hand if we did something to please ahuman being, then its reward is limited to this world. And by the way when you say that we should do what is right, I would think the definition of 'right' is whatever pleases Allah.
2004-03-08
ABDUL HADI FROM US said:
So encouraging to see Muslims rejecting the article. May Allah (SWT) make their iman stronger. And I pray for guidance of Dr Waheed and others who dont understand this spirit yet.
Allah (SWT) various occasions in quraan has described who are the successful people and from where ultimate success comes. So many times these concepts have been described that its not possible to quote all of them. I sincerely invite the writer to open Quraan and read through it. Never in Quraan it is said that leave the worldly life and become a monk, its against the teachings of Islam. We have to live in this world and practice every single commandment of Allah (SWT).
Dr Waheed to open Quraan and recite 87:16-17. 'you are inspired by the life of this world, and the hereafter is better and ever-lasting'
Lets be clear about it, Islam is not what 'we' want it to be, its what Allah (SWT) has commanded us through Quraan and the life of Prophet (SAW). It is 'total' submission to commandments of Allah (SWT). Quraan is not a book that we accept the parts we like and reject the parts we dont like. We have to conform ourselves with this book NOT the other way around.
Total ignorance of Iqbals philosophy. In the same poem Iqbal said this thing that Muslims are suffering because of not following Quraan. 'your ancesters got respect by following Islam and you are devastated bcause you left Quraan'
At other points Iqbal describes that the non-beleivers depend on sword for fighting, Muslims NEVER depend on sword for fighting.
My suggestion to Dr Waheed: The only way to get the respect in this world and especially in a non-muslim society 'to hold fast to your religion' NOT compromising on your identity and be appologetic about it. Believe in Quraan and hold fast to it and all these concepts will become crystal clear to you.
'Inna Izzata lillahe Jameeah' The whole respect is ONLY with Allah (SWT).
Allah (SWT) various occasions in quraan has described who are the successful people and from where ultimate success comes. So many times these concepts have been described that its not possible to quote all of them. I sincerely invite the writer to open Quraan and read through it. Never in Quraan it is said that leave the worldly life and become a monk, its against the teachings of Islam. We have to live in this world and practice every single commandment of Allah (SWT).
Dr Waheed to open Quraan and recite 87:16-17. 'you are inspired by the life of this world, and the hereafter is better and ever-lasting'
Lets be clear about it, Islam is not what 'we' want it to be, its what Allah (SWT) has commanded us through Quraan and the life of Prophet (SAW). It is 'total' submission to commandments of Allah (SWT). Quraan is not a book that we accept the parts we like and reject the parts we dont like. We have to conform ourselves with this book NOT the other way around.
Total ignorance of Iqbals philosophy. In the same poem Iqbal said this thing that Muslims are suffering because of not following Quraan. 'your ancesters got respect by following Islam and you are devastated bcause you left Quraan'
At other points Iqbal describes that the non-beleivers depend on sword for fighting, Muslims NEVER depend on sword for fighting.
My suggestion to Dr Waheed: The only way to get the respect in this world and especially in a non-muslim society 'to hold fast to your religion' NOT compromising on your identity and be appologetic about it. Believe in Quraan and hold fast to it and all these concepts will become crystal clear to you.
'Inna Izzata lillahe Jameeah' The whole respect is ONLY with Allah (SWT).
2004-03-08
AMINAH FROM USA said:
Assalaamu alaikum wa rahmatullahi wa barakaatu
JazaakAllahu khairan for taking the time to write this article. Wherever wisdom is found a Muslim should endeavor to embrace it as it is our right. Our unlettered Prophet Muhammad (saws) was sent as a mercy to mankind, not just to the Arabs or the scholars or white or black. His speech was clear and eloquent; easy to understand. He (saws) exercised restraint towards the non-muslims and exemplified noble character for both muslims and non-muslims to emulate.
Alhamdu lillah rabbil alameen!
This is the Sacred month of Muharram!
Please make sincere dua'aa for our Imams and leaders. May the name of Allah be glorified and the Prophets from Adam (as)to Muhammad (saws) be honored and exalted. Ameen.
Allah already perfected our religion and has chosen the deen of Islam for muslims.
We ask the Imams mot to perfect the religion for us but, to teach us the religion. As the Prophet (saws) was also a teacher. During Friday khutbahs keep it simple; teach us in the language that is understood. Please don't make me feel that I have to be a scholar to understand what you're saying. Imams if are human beings with a greater need to guard against arrogance, grandeur, pomp and rhetoric as the Ummah. So, they need help too sometimes.
New shahadas and some old timers need to be taught the prayer. We all could all benefit from economics 101 and social skills called manners-
even towards those who have not yet embraced the religion. May Allah guide us on the Straight Path. Ameen.
very good article!
JazaakAllahu khairan for taking the time to write this article. Wherever wisdom is found a Muslim should endeavor to embrace it as it is our right. Our unlettered Prophet Muhammad (saws) was sent as a mercy to mankind, not just to the Arabs or the scholars or white or black. His speech was clear and eloquent; easy to understand. He (saws) exercised restraint towards the non-muslims and exemplified noble character for both muslims and non-muslims to emulate.
Alhamdu lillah rabbil alameen!
This is the Sacred month of Muharram!
Please make sincere dua'aa for our Imams and leaders. May the name of Allah be glorified and the Prophets from Adam (as)to Muhammad (saws) be honored and exalted. Ameen.
Allah already perfected our religion and has chosen the deen of Islam for muslims.
We ask the Imams mot to perfect the religion for us but, to teach us the religion. As the Prophet (saws) was also a teacher. During Friday khutbahs keep it simple; teach us in the language that is understood. Please don't make me feel that I have to be a scholar to understand what you're saying. Imams if are human beings with a greater need to guard against arrogance, grandeur, pomp and rhetoric as the Ummah. So, they need help too sometimes.
New shahadas and some old timers need to be taught the prayer. We all could all benefit from economics 101 and social skills called manners-
even towards those who have not yet embraced the religion. May Allah guide us on the Straight Path. Ameen.
very good article!
2004-03-08
RAMZAN BEHAM FROM SINGAPORE said:
I agree with every points except for no.2.I think there is no unity amongst us Muslims.For e.g a rich jew would help any jew in poverty regardless of the country they live.They have such strong bond in their community.But some very rich muslims are not very willing to help thier brothers or sisters in poverty.they feel giving zakat is just enough.If they had loved their religion & community & help the sufferings the poor would have got a better life.I'sure there are a few very rich muslims in every muslim country.I'm sad that we do not have the unity the Jews have.
2004-03-08
UMMHANNA FROM MALAYSIA said:
Assalamu alaikum. 1st time I've felt the urge to write in. I agree with ummmuhammad about the interfaith groups - we should spread (islamic) da'wah firmly and gently and yet remain strong and steadfast fisabilillah, instead of pleasing others. It is never too late or too much to remind ourselves, young or old, to please Allah with our every word and deed, and as long as we accord our daily living to Qur'an and Sunnah and not follow others or practise bid'ah/innovations or wanting much of this world, inshaAllah we are doing right by HIM. And yes, HE is Al-Hakim - The Wise, The Judge of Judges. May Allah forgive us and guide us, ameen. Assalamu alaikum.
2004-03-08
TUNDE FROM NIGERIA said:
I am in support of some of the write up while some are just western idelogy which has no bases in Islam, i think there is need for individual to shun his own idea while writing islamin messages.
2004-03-08
ABUBAKAR FROM NIGERIA said:
Your approach to thee issues are rather simplistic.Have it at the back of your mind when publishing your articles that your readers are not versed in Islam.most of the readers have a superficial understanding of Islam and you may find them being either on the extreme or liberal levels.This could lead to fanaticsm or laxity in religion.I would suggest you be firm in your articles.
2004-03-08
RAIS MIAN FROM INDIA said:
Very good and thought provoking article.Let us pray to AALAH to enlighten us all.
2004-03-08
USMAN FROM KSA said:
pt 1-there is a hadith that says that nations rise and fall(decline)due to the quran(by attachment or detach.)
pt 3-[4.168] Surely (as for) those who disbelieve and act unjustly Allah will not forgive them nor guide them to a path
[98.6] Surely those who disbelieve from among the followers of the Book and the polytheists shall be in the fire of hell, abiding therein; they are the worst of men
pt 4-[57.20] "Know that this world's life is only sport and play and gaiety and boasting among yourselves,"
About the attraction of the things of the world, Abu Bakr(raa) said, "If an ignorant person is attracted by the things of the world, that is bad. But if a learned person is thus attracted, it is worse."
He also said, "O man you are busy working for the world, and the world is busy trying to turn you out".
pt 5-[51:56] "I have only created Jinns and men, that they may serve Me."
Narrated Jabir bin 'Abdullah
I gave the Pledge of allegiance to the Prophet that I would listen andobey, and he told me to add: 'As much as I can, and will give good advice to every Muslim.'(bukhari)
pt 3-[4.168] Surely (as for) those who disbelieve and act unjustly Allah will not forgive them nor guide them to a path
[98.6] Surely those who disbelieve from among the followers of the Book and the polytheists shall be in the fire of hell, abiding therein; they are the worst of men
pt 4-[57.20] "Know that this world's life is only sport and play and gaiety and boasting among yourselves,"
About the attraction of the things of the world, Abu Bakr(raa) said, "If an ignorant person is attracted by the things of the world, that is bad. But if a learned person is thus attracted, it is worse."
He also said, "O man you are busy working for the world, and the world is busy trying to turn you out".
pt 5-[51:56] "I have only created Jinns and men, that they may serve Me."
Narrated Jabir bin 'Abdullah
I gave the Pledge of allegiance to the Prophet that I would listen andobey, and he told me to add: 'As much as I can, and will give good advice to every Muslim.'(bukhari)
2004-03-08
AHMED IRFAN SHAFQAT FROM PAKISTAN said:
I have found this article really enlightening and useful.Only item #3 has made me make the following comment. Of course Allah is the best judge of people and we cannot play God, but it is quite clear that a mushrik and the one who does not believe Muhammd PBUH to be the last prophet is never going to qualify for jannat. This applies even to those who claim to be Muslims but continue to indulge in shirk. Allah is merciful but He has made it very clear who are barred from His mercy.This is evident from the study of the basics of Islam.
2004-03-08
SHAKIR EBRAHIM FROM INDIA said:
Finally an article that is simple yet brilliant. I especially like pts. 1,3 & 4. The Islamic viewpoint is so "arrogant" that we cannot see beyond our noses. I agree that most people, be they non-Muslims, are good and that God, in his infinite wisdom and mercy will judge equitibly with them.
And we "Muslims" exposed to God's last will have all the more of an obligation to follow in the spirit God's wishes
And we "Muslims" exposed to God's last will have all the more of an obligation to follow in the spirit God's wishes
2004-03-08
NAZIM H. FROM USA said:
Alhamdulliah. Bismillahir Rahmanir Raheem.
SUPREME GLORY BE TO ALLAH, THE ONE WHO IS FAR ABOVE ANY COMPARISON.
I in all honesty have carefully read Dr. Siddiqui's plea of the dangers of a simplistic approach to the generalized Islamic statements made by Imams and other leaders. I have also read his careful dissection of the arguments and feel that even though his article was done with good intentions and faith; Mr. Siddiqui come off as an arrogant "know it all" who feels that it is these 5 golden statements are the cause of Muslim backwardness in the world. Honestly, with all due respect to him, he is guilty of the very generalized assumptions that he accuses the islamic leaders of doing. Mr. Siddiqui is assuming when he says, "our religious leaders talk about this issue gives the impression that achieving modern scientific knowledge...are all world things"
Whoa, wait right there. Accusing the Islamic leaders of saying that they view scientific knowledge as dunya is dangerous and divisive. I don't know of any imams or sheiks in my area that has ever said that. The leaders that I know all urge the American Muslims esp. the youth (me) to seek the best and highest of education. Be the brightest scientist, doctor, engineer, teacher, journalist, and yes even an Islamic scholar (if that's what a young Muslim wants to do). But whatever path of study one chooses, he/she must strive to be the best at it.
Honestly I feel that Muslims need encouragement, reassurance, unity, and above all ALLAH, all of which I sadly say is lacking in dr. Waheed Siddiqee's column.
W'salaamAalaikum. And all by Muslims brothers and sisters rule regardless of their race, gender, and creed.
SUPREME GLORY BE TO ALLAH, THE ONE WHO IS FAR ABOVE ANY COMPARISON.
I in all honesty have carefully read Dr. Siddiqui's plea of the dangers of a simplistic approach to the generalized Islamic statements made by Imams and other leaders. I have also read his careful dissection of the arguments and feel that even though his article was done with good intentions and faith; Mr. Siddiqui come off as an arrogant "know it all" who feels that it is these 5 golden statements are the cause of Muslim backwardness in the world. Honestly, with all due respect to him, he is guilty of the very generalized assumptions that he accuses the islamic leaders of doing. Mr. Siddiqui is assuming when he says, "our religious leaders talk about this issue gives the impression that achieving modern scientific knowledge...are all world things"
Whoa, wait right there. Accusing the Islamic leaders of saying that they view scientific knowledge as dunya is dangerous and divisive. I don't know of any imams or sheiks in my area that has ever said that. The leaders that I know all urge the American Muslims esp. the youth (me) to seek the best and highest of education. Be the brightest scientist, doctor, engineer, teacher, journalist, and yes even an Islamic scholar (if that's what a young Muslim wants to do). But whatever path of study one chooses, he/she must strive to be the best at it.
Honestly I feel that Muslims need encouragement, reassurance, unity, and above all ALLAH, all of which I sadly say is lacking in dr. Waheed Siddiqee's column.
W'salaamAalaikum. And all by Muslims brothers and sisters rule regardless of their race, gender, and creed.
2004-03-08
IMTIAZ RASHID FROM JAPAN said:
We must teach all the umma to come on one stage to make Islam a only religion for salvation
2004-03-08
MOHAMMAD FROM CANADA said:
Excellent article. It's about time someone wrote an article like this. I'm cerain most enlightened muslims agree with all the main points and are tired of the rubbish one often hears from unfortunate and ignorant muslims. I especially like point #3. I have met many non-muslims with amazing character and courage. I have also met many muslims who are corrupt, pathetic liars and embezzlers. Allah is infinitely Just and Logical. I find it hard to believe that the non-muslim with an excellent character will wind up in hell and the person who happened to be born muslim will wind up in heaven. This is nonsense, pure and simple. And anyway, the muslim who sins can hardly be said to have any faith. Allah has promised justice for those who commit evil, regardless of whether they are muslim or not. Allah has also promised a reward for those who do good, whether they are muslim or not. The arrogance of those muslims thinking they are somehow excempt from punishment smacks of the same afflication plaguing Christians and Jews. Ultimately, good deeds are what matter, not professions of faith backed by nothing. If the muslim world is pathetic, it's because of the rampant corruption and lawlessness. If the west is powerful, it's because of respect for the rule of law. The West deserves what they have accomplished, and the muslims deserve their lot, because Allah is infintely Wise and Just
2004-03-08
IQBAL FROM PAKISTAN said:
SHAME ON YOU SADDIQUE YOU'VE FORGOTTEN THE MAIN PURPOSE OF CREATION I.E, IS "I ONLY CREATED JINN AND MAN TO WORSHIP ME."(QURAN51:56)
IF YOU DON'T AGREE WITH THIS THAN PLEASE DON'T SAY THAT YOU ARE A MUSLIM BECAUSE FOR MUSLIMS LIFE OF THIS WORLD IS NOTHING BUT GAME.
SIDDIQUE SAYS "...HOW IS IT THAT THOSE NATIONS WHICH ARE NOT MUSLIM (AND CONSEQUENTLY MUST NOT BE FOLLOWING THE QURAN AND SUNNAH) ARE ECONOMICALLY, SCIENTIFICALLY, AND MILITARILY VERY ADVANCED AND ARE THRUSTING THEIR WILL ON MUSLIM COUNTRIES?......"
SO WHAT? DOES IT MEAN THAT WE NEED NOT TO FOLLOW THE HOLLY QURAN, THAN WHY ALLAH (SWT) GAVE US THE QURAN IF THOSE WHO DO NOT HAVE IT ARE SAME AS US?? AND WHAT ABOUT THOSE NATIONS WHO DO NOT FOLLOW QURAN YET THEY ARE AMONG THE POOREST COUNTRIES IN THE WORLD???? SIMPLY BECAUSE SOME NATIONS ARE TECHNOLOGICALLY MORE ADVANCED THAN US DOESN'T MEAN AT ALL THAT THEY ARE ON THE RIGHT PATH.
IF MUSLIMS WERE TO FOLLOW THE QURAN OF COURSE THEY WILL BE THE RULERS OF THE WORLD BECAUSE CORRUPTION WOULD CAME TO AN END IN MUSLIM COUNTRIES WHICH IS THE MAIN CAUSE WHY WE ARE WHERE WE ARE. SIDDIQUE YOU MUST KNOW THAT ANOTHER PROBLEM IN MUSLIM COUNTRIES IS THAT THOSE WHO ARE RICH ARE TOO RICH AND POOR ARE TOO POOR, SO IF THEY ALL WERE TO FOLLOW THE QURAN OF COURSE THE DIFFERENCE WOULD DECREASE. IF THE RULERS OF ISLAMIC COUNTRIES WERE TO FOLLOW THE HOLLY QURAN THEY WOULD WORRY ABOUT THERE PEOPLE INSTEAD OF THEIR OWN JOYS LIKE SADDAM HUSAIN.
JUST BECAUSE UNBELIEVERS ARE MORE THAN BELIEVERS DOES NOT MEAN IN ANY CASE THAT UNBELIEVERS ARE ON THE RIGHT WAY. HISTORICALLY THE COMMUNITY OF BELIEVERS HAS BEEN ALWAYS SMALLER THAN THE UNBELIEVERS, READ ABOUT NOAH.
DON'T WORRY MR SIDDIQUE HELL IS BIG ENOUGH. ANYWAY IT IS UPON ALLAH(SWT) TO DECIDE WHO ENTERS HELL OR PARADISE.
VERY SAD HOW ISLAMICITY LET PEOPLE LIKE SADDIQUE PUBLIC ARTICLES LIKE THIS.ISLAMICITY MUST READ THESE ARTICLES CAREFULLY BEFORE PUBLISHING THEM TO BE SURE THAT THERE ISN'T ANY CONTRADICTION WITH QURAN
IF YOU DON'T AGREE WITH THIS THAN PLEASE DON'T SAY THAT YOU ARE A MUSLIM BECAUSE FOR MUSLIMS LIFE OF THIS WORLD IS NOTHING BUT GAME.
SIDDIQUE SAYS "...HOW IS IT THAT THOSE NATIONS WHICH ARE NOT MUSLIM (AND CONSEQUENTLY MUST NOT BE FOLLOWING THE QURAN AND SUNNAH) ARE ECONOMICALLY, SCIENTIFICALLY, AND MILITARILY VERY ADVANCED AND ARE THRUSTING THEIR WILL ON MUSLIM COUNTRIES?......"
SO WHAT? DOES IT MEAN THAT WE NEED NOT TO FOLLOW THE HOLLY QURAN, THAN WHY ALLAH (SWT) GAVE US THE QURAN IF THOSE WHO DO NOT HAVE IT ARE SAME AS US?? AND WHAT ABOUT THOSE NATIONS WHO DO NOT FOLLOW QURAN YET THEY ARE AMONG THE POOREST COUNTRIES IN THE WORLD???? SIMPLY BECAUSE SOME NATIONS ARE TECHNOLOGICALLY MORE ADVANCED THAN US DOESN'T MEAN AT ALL THAT THEY ARE ON THE RIGHT PATH.
IF MUSLIMS WERE TO FOLLOW THE QURAN OF COURSE THEY WILL BE THE RULERS OF THE WORLD BECAUSE CORRUPTION WOULD CAME TO AN END IN MUSLIM COUNTRIES WHICH IS THE MAIN CAUSE WHY WE ARE WHERE WE ARE. SIDDIQUE YOU MUST KNOW THAT ANOTHER PROBLEM IN MUSLIM COUNTRIES IS THAT THOSE WHO ARE RICH ARE TOO RICH AND POOR ARE TOO POOR, SO IF THEY ALL WERE TO FOLLOW THE QURAN OF COURSE THE DIFFERENCE WOULD DECREASE. IF THE RULERS OF ISLAMIC COUNTRIES WERE TO FOLLOW THE HOLLY QURAN THEY WOULD WORRY ABOUT THERE PEOPLE INSTEAD OF THEIR OWN JOYS LIKE SADDAM HUSAIN.
JUST BECAUSE UNBELIEVERS ARE MORE THAN BELIEVERS DOES NOT MEAN IN ANY CASE THAT UNBELIEVERS ARE ON THE RIGHT WAY. HISTORICALLY THE COMMUNITY OF BELIEVERS HAS BEEN ALWAYS SMALLER THAN THE UNBELIEVERS, READ ABOUT NOAH.
DON'T WORRY MR SIDDIQUE HELL IS BIG ENOUGH. ANYWAY IT IS UPON ALLAH(SWT) TO DECIDE WHO ENTERS HELL OR PARADISE.
VERY SAD HOW ISLAMICITY LET PEOPLE LIKE SADDIQUE PUBLIC ARTICLES LIKE THIS.ISLAMICITY MUST READ THESE ARTICLES CAREFULLY BEFORE PUBLISHING THEM TO BE SURE THAT THERE ISN'T ANY CONTRADICTION WITH QURAN
2004-03-07
JANETTE HASHEMI FROM AUSTRALIA said:
Regarding Q.3 Nowhere in Quran does God promise paradise only to Muslims. Paradise is promised only to those who believe and do good deeds. Islam is the religion of all the Worlds and our Universe and we must not make it subject to Earthly conditions.
2004-03-07
MAQSOOD KHAN FROM AUSTRALIA said:
Author has try to raise very valid issues but I believe there is leaking understanding in regard to some issues....some points are good but most are going against what Quran has order....I can't compare myself with the author's knowledge but reading other scholor book and quarn's transtaltion I don't agree with most the comment.
thanks
thanks
2004-03-07
MUSTAFA FROM TURKEY said:
The very start of this article is afflicted with the misunderstanding that ease and prosperity in this life, which most people think are the distinctive characteristic of the "kafir" societies of today, is an essentially good thing. The Quran itself demolishes this argument by referring to the various past nations who went astray because of their great prosperity and perished in the end for their sins, i.e. the result of their complacent attitude towards life.
The comment of the author on his third point shows lack of depth in Islamic knowledge and understanding. Of course, there are people in non-Muslim societies who live good and virtuous lives, and the very common assumption that all of these people will go to hell is erroneous. However, the real correction to this mistaken opinion is this: Only those who have heard of Islam adequately but have rejected it will go to hell. If someone hears of the message of Muhammad, the last Prophet, but does not follow him, he is bound for eternal damnation. How ever you think him virtuous, his outward virtue is not enough to save him from the punishment which he deserved by obstinately rejecting the message of Islam which he heard of sufficiently. Of course, those who were unable to follow Muhammad because they did not have the opportunity and information to do so are exempt from this (seemingly) strict responsibility. They will be judged according to their deeds, and their virtue will be of great benefit for them.
The comment of the author on his third point shows lack of depth in Islamic knowledge and understanding. Of course, there are people in non-Muslim societies who live good and virtuous lives, and the very common assumption that all of these people will go to hell is erroneous. However, the real correction to this mistaken opinion is this: Only those who have heard of Islam adequately but have rejected it will go to hell. If someone hears of the message of Muhammad, the last Prophet, but does not follow him, he is bound for eternal damnation. How ever you think him virtuous, his outward virtue is not enough to save him from the punishment which he deserved by obstinately rejecting the message of Islam which he heard of sufficiently. Of course, those who were unable to follow Muhammad because they did not have the opportunity and information to do so are exempt from this (seemingly) strict responsibility. They will be judged according to their deeds, and their virtue will be of great benefit for them.
2004-03-07
UMM MUHAMMAD FROM UNITED STATES said:
It seems as if the goal of these "interfaith" groups and members is to apologise for Islam and appease Westerners. SUCCESS IS ONLY IN ISLAM.
SUCCESS IS ONLY IN ISLAM. The closer you follow Quran and Sunnah the more successful you are in this life and the next. You might "suffer" because you didn't get that interrest loan for your house now, but ohh the agonies of the hell fire later!!
Sure your country would make billions of dollars if it allowed in pork, interrest, alcohol and pornography, but just look at how fast your country will spiral down to an abyss of immorality, crime and ignorance.
STOP TRYING TO PLEASE KAFIRS, LETS STRIVE TO PLEASE ALLAH! You will never be able to please them. They will never accept you until you practise their religion. Well these interfaith groups are on their way!!!!
SUCCESS IS ONLY IN ISLAM. The closer you follow Quran and Sunnah the more successful you are in this life and the next. You might "suffer" because you didn't get that interrest loan for your house now, but ohh the agonies of the hell fire later!!
Sure your country would make billions of dollars if it allowed in pork, interrest, alcohol and pornography, but just look at how fast your country will spiral down to an abyss of immorality, crime and ignorance.
STOP TRYING TO PLEASE KAFIRS, LETS STRIVE TO PLEASE ALLAH! You will never be able to please them. They will never accept you until you practise their religion. Well these interfaith groups are on their way!!!!
2004-03-07
NAJIB MOHAMMED FROM USA said:
It is a good article. However, we can't make statements that contradicts Allah's Own Word. Allah (SWA)said in the Qur'an: "Allah forgives all sins except association with Him". So for Dr. Waheed to say that Allah will reward good doers regardles of their belief, is not only wrong but also will invalidate the warning part of the call to Islam. As for our intension to do our deeds for the pleasure of Allah, it should be our goal at all times. Dr. Waheed forgot that humans by nature are self centered biengs and as Muslims we are obliged to strugle against it. What more there is than seeking the pleasure of Allah at all times.
2004-03-07
MUHAMED FROM ENGLAND said:
It has been clearly stated in the Quran and Hadith that Iman is a prerequisite to enter paradise. In the times of our prophet there were good people but did not accept Islam. But never did our prophet say they would be successful in the hereafter. Gladtidings were only given for people with Iman.
Otherwise it seems you are argueing that you need not be a Good Muslim but merely a good person to gain paradise.
Otherwise it seems you are argueing that you need not be a Good Muslim but merely a good person to gain paradise.
2004-03-07
OMAR BOUDERDABEN FROM USA said:
As_salaamu Alaikum,
First, there should be at least another selection added to the three above, I chose I agree, because I agree and disagree somwhat to the article.
I agree that those statements are cited so many times, but I strongly disagree that there is a "sacredness attached to them and most Muslims accept them as a matter of faith". As Muslims, we have to believe that you have to be a Muslim to enter Jannah, no other religion will be accepted except Islam. But it will be pretentious of us, Muslim, to think we gained that right and no-one else did. Umer, may Alllah pleased with him is reported to have said, if there is only man who is going to hell fire, I would think it is me. True there are genuily good people, like mother Theresa, but if she heard of Islam, which I think she must have, but still denied Mohammed peace upon him, her religion will not be accepted from her, and if I understand her convictions right, she has associated to Allah a son, and Mohammad, peace be upon him said Allah wil forgive everything except "SHIRK". As for the Zakah, what we fail to put in the equation, is the "BARAKAH", that Allah puts in little things when they are sincerely done for His pleasure, think of the time of Umer Ibn abulaziz, the fourth Khalifa, as he is known.
I understand being a minority, we to deal with non Muslims, but we must have the convictions that Islam is the solution. There is nothing wrong with working hard and enjoying the goods of this life, but we have to find a balance between that good the hereafter.
I ask Allah to help us be true Muslims, and show us good as good, and give us the knowledge to realize it is good, and give us the courage to follow it. I ask Allah to show us evil as evil, and give us the knowledge to realize it is evil, and give us the wisdom to stay away and avoid it.
Omar B.
First, there should be at least another selection added to the three above, I chose I agree, because I agree and disagree somwhat to the article.
I agree that those statements are cited so many times, but I strongly disagree that there is a "sacredness attached to them and most Muslims accept them as a matter of faith". As Muslims, we have to believe that you have to be a Muslim to enter Jannah, no other religion will be accepted except Islam. But it will be pretentious of us, Muslim, to think we gained that right and no-one else did. Umer, may Alllah pleased with him is reported to have said, if there is only man who is going to hell fire, I would think it is me. True there are genuily good people, like mother Theresa, but if she heard of Islam, which I think she must have, but still denied Mohammed peace upon him, her religion will not be accepted from her, and if I understand her convictions right, she has associated to Allah a son, and Mohammad, peace be upon him said Allah wil forgive everything except "SHIRK". As for the Zakah, what we fail to put in the equation, is the "BARAKAH", that Allah puts in little things when they are sincerely done for His pleasure, think of the time of Umer Ibn abulaziz, the fourth Khalifa, as he is known.
I understand being a minority, we to deal with non Muslims, but we must have the convictions that Islam is the solution. There is nothing wrong with working hard and enjoying the goods of this life, but we have to find a balance between that good the hereafter.
I ask Allah to help us be true Muslims, and show us good as good, and give us the knowledge to realize it is good, and give us the courage to follow it. I ask Allah to show us evil as evil, and give us the knowledge to realize it is evil, and give us the wisdom to stay away and avoid it.
Omar B.
2004-03-07
PHILIP FROM US said:
Well stated and long over due. I would like to comment on following the "Quran and Sunnah". First the Quran is in essence the "enjoining the good and prohibiting the evil". And the life and actions of the Prophet is the Sunnah. The life of the Prophet is a study in critical analysis and "innovation" (for the Arabian community at the time. These (good)innovations where in re area of economics, politics, family life, military strategy,etc., However, the vocabulary in most Masjids around the courtey is restricted to dogmatic restatements of hadith and scripture often masking very little desire to any real effect change. The problems of today (enjoining the good and prohibiting the evil), cannot effectively be altered if we continue to believe that following the Sunnah and the Quran is simply reverting to the practices and legislation relevent during the 6th and 7th century (let us truely follow the Sunnah with "good" innovation.)
2004-03-07
ABDULLAH FROM US said:
First of all I differ with the idea of putting an angy-looking face if you dont agree with the article because mine isnt like that at all.
Without going into details of the article, let me point out one thing. We need to understand that the knowledge of Islam is a scientific knowledge based on evidence and logic. As with other forms of present day knowledge we cannot comment just based on our personal opinions and experiences, we should try that for Islam too. Lets take example from the law that we all follow. Every citizen is supposed to follow the law, however only lawyers know the intricacies and details. As an ordinary citizen I cannot go to court and start explaining or challenging the details of the law or the concept behind the law. To do anything like that there is a procedure to follow and I have to take advice from experts etc. Similar is the case with Islamic knowledge, the law exists, knowledgable people exist. Every muslim is supposed to follow it however as a layman nobody can go in details and challenge the people who have more knowledge than us, unless and untill we atleast get the same amount of knowledge. Problems come when due to our lack of knowledge or understanding or our own biases, we fail to follow or understand the procedures.
Take another example if I read few articles from New England Journal of Medicine or JAMA and start giving my opinions or try to convince people what is right and what is wrong, while I myself lack the basic degree or qualification to be a physician, I ll only end up making myself embarrassed.
So my advice for everyone here is please try to understand and follow the procedure in trying to discuss conceptual issues. If anybody has problem, try to consult experts and authentic sources and dont play around with the ideas ourselves. Also the responisibility lies with the knowledgable people to create an awareness amongst masses about the actual deen.
May Allah (SWT) guide all of us to the true path!
Without going into details of the article, let me point out one thing. We need to understand that the knowledge of Islam is a scientific knowledge based on evidence and logic. As with other forms of present day knowledge we cannot comment just based on our personal opinions and experiences, we should try that for Islam too. Lets take example from the law that we all follow. Every citizen is supposed to follow the law, however only lawyers know the intricacies and details. As an ordinary citizen I cannot go to court and start explaining or challenging the details of the law or the concept behind the law. To do anything like that there is a procedure to follow and I have to take advice from experts etc. Similar is the case with Islamic knowledge, the law exists, knowledgable people exist. Every muslim is supposed to follow it however as a layman nobody can go in details and challenge the people who have more knowledge than us, unless and untill we atleast get the same amount of knowledge. Problems come when due to our lack of knowledge or understanding or our own biases, we fail to follow or understand the procedures.
Take another example if I read few articles from New England Journal of Medicine or JAMA and start giving my opinions or try to convince people what is right and what is wrong, while I myself lack the basic degree or qualification to be a physician, I ll only end up making myself embarrassed.
So my advice for everyone here is please try to understand and follow the procedure in trying to discuss conceptual issues. If anybody has problem, try to consult experts and authentic sources and dont play around with the ideas ourselves. Also the responisibility lies with the knowledgable people to create an awareness amongst masses about the actual deen.
May Allah (SWT) guide all of us to the true path!
2004-03-07
ABDUR RAZZAQ FROM USA said:
Some of the statements of this individual are deviant statements and are indeed very dangerous! The prophet has stated that when the people get involved in riba, abandon jihad, become satisifed with agriculture (business in general), Allah will heap humiliation upon them and will not decrease it until they return to their religion. Also every Muslim is required to seek knowledge and should concerned about even the smallest of affairs. The prophet said whoever refuses to follow my Sunnah (whether, wajib, mustahab, or mubah) has refused (to enter Jannah). Also many ayat of the Qur'an and ahadith indicate that whoever HEARS the message of Islam AND REJECTS it, and dies in the state, will be fuel for the fire. That does not entitle Muslims to treat those who harbor no illwill towards Islam bad or arrogantly, but it gives the people of Islam a degree over them. Also all deeds should be for the pleasure of Allah, and the Ulama have stated that the conditions for any deed to be accepted is (1) it is done with Ikhas (sincerity for Allah), and (2) it has to be in accordance with the Sunnah of the Prophet (saws). Therefore, everyday actions become worship, like eating, relieving oneself, and even sexual relations. How can it be that the muttaqi (fearful servant) can perform an action, whether for the dunya or the akhira, and not have the face of Allah being our primary concern. These arguments are specious and dangerous and I implore all Muslims who read this to beware of these principles.
As salaamu alaikum.
As salaamu alaikum.
2004-03-07
MAROOF FROM US said:
The author is very concerned about the economic and educational weakness of Muslim nations; this is understandable we share his concern.
He has attempted to find the cause and suggest solutions.
In trying to analyze this rather complex problem, instead of attempting to do some open minded original research he has unfortunately fallen into the trap which most of us in this current age of intellectual lethargy do; we present the age-old explanations given by western colonialist and now by the entire western media and institutions ie. we are inherently lazy or don't work hard enough for our 'duniya' and are fatalist and obsessed with aakhira. Furthermore we say that the west is following 'islamic work ethic' and the atheists and people who are commiting obvious shirk may be spared the torment of hellfire. Some of these statement contradict the verses of the holy Quran.
There is no mention of the fact that the muslim masses work hard and struggle in poverty in the developing nations, there are a significant number of these people who despite their poverty have sabr and preserve their faith.
We need to understand the structural problems with the leadership in muslim societies in particular the educated muslim elite who have failed to provide a roadmap and political leadership. The muslim middleclass looks at secular education as a means of earning livelihood or improving economic status and once material success is obtained ritualistic prayers provide spiritual comfort.
If islamic knowledge is integrated with secular studies a very different worldview and economic and social priorities will emerge for the muslim ummah.
He has attempted to find the cause and suggest solutions.
In trying to analyze this rather complex problem, instead of attempting to do some open minded original research he has unfortunately fallen into the trap which most of us in this current age of intellectual lethargy do; we present the age-old explanations given by western colonialist and now by the entire western media and institutions ie. we are inherently lazy or don't work hard enough for our 'duniya' and are fatalist and obsessed with aakhira. Furthermore we say that the west is following 'islamic work ethic' and the atheists and people who are commiting obvious shirk may be spared the torment of hellfire. Some of these statement contradict the verses of the holy Quran.
There is no mention of the fact that the muslim masses work hard and struggle in poverty in the developing nations, there are a significant number of these people who despite their poverty have sabr and preserve their faith.
We need to understand the structural problems with the leadership in muslim societies in particular the educated muslim elite who have failed to provide a roadmap and political leadership. The muslim middleclass looks at secular education as a means of earning livelihood or improving economic status and once material success is obtained ritualistic prayers provide spiritual comfort.
If islamic knowledge is integrated with secular studies a very different worldview and economic and social priorities will emerge for the muslim ummah.
2004-03-07
SABEEN FROM PAKISTAN said:
it is really a very good article.actually in todaysworld we r in need of such people who have the courage and talent to speak about spiritual uplift and uplift of human character.I wish I could work with u.
2004-03-07
SALAHADDIN FROM USA said:
Dr. Siddiqee, you obviously are unaware, or choose to ignore, the many passages in the Holy Quran upon which the five statements made by Muslims are based.
It seems that you have been drinking heavily from the cup of political correctness and secular humanism. I suppose that in order to maintain oneself in the position of "Chairman, Interfaith Committee, United Muslims of America", one has to alter one's Islam to a humanist flavor? You should eat your own "Chicken Soup for the Soulless" and not dish it out on an Islamic website where people know better.
It seems that you have been drinking heavily from the cup of political correctness and secular humanism. I suppose that in order to maintain oneself in the position of "Chairman, Interfaith Committee, United Muslims of America", one has to alter one's Islam to a humanist flavor? You should eat your own "Chicken Soup for the Soulless" and not dish it out on an Islamic website where people know better.
2004-03-07
ABDULLA FROM INDIA said:
I agree with Br.Ahmeds Comments.Unless Muslims are return to Path of Quran and Sunnah ,there is no Success both here and hereafter.Anyway..Success in hereafter in most important that is Author looks like forgotten..
2004-03-07
AHMED FROM USA said:
It seems that this author has missed and forgotten the whole purpose of why Allah (swt) created humans and jinns. Allah tells us that He did not create humans and jinns but to worship Him. Facts show that the Muslim Ummah in most part during the Khalifah followed the Quran and the Sunnah and they thrived in every aspect of life. As soon as they abondoned it they went down real fast. It does not take a third grader to see that. The West advanced because of one reason and one reason alone. They abondoned God. They realized that they could not serve two Masters. Their own Desires and God at the same time. So they decided to follow their own Desire. Where in Islam, our success is in proportional to our adherence to the Quran and the Sunnah, because Islam is a total way of life. You cannot seperate the two. Granted, by doing so, it could take us a while to advance as compared to others who do not have God in their life. So, whats wrong with that? Why should Muslims feel like they are in competition with anyone? It doesn't matter how much or fast you advance, at the end it will all perish any way and in Akhirah it won't do you any good unless you come with a heart that feared Allah. Any one who believe that any nation can reach the level of technological advancement as some countries had done without making a major sacrifice in the spiritual side is naive and a complete ignorant. Just look at whats going on in those countries and see how spiritually bankrupt they have become. Is that what Allah has created us for?
2004-03-07
PIED PIPER FROM QUADEBOLEKHISTAN said:
Thanks for posting this article. It really helps us in our quest for full human potential. Let's try our best to live as if we were to die tomorrow and learn as if we were to live forever!
2004-03-07
SUMAIRA FROM UNITED STATES said:
I like this article but only the fifth point that made me posting my comment ,if there is the case that has been defined by dr. waheed then why Prophet(SAW) said "innamul aamalu bin niyyah le kulim reim ma nawa".
2004-03-07
MOHAMMED FROM USA said:
#1 is something we must act upon, i love that word now (quwwat-e-amal).
I would like to add for #4 that these acts of worship are important, and its true the sahaba reached such high places in jannah, because their faith led them to raise the kalima, and to establish peace and justice in the society.
I would also like to add that regarding #5, pleasing Allah is for children and it is also for adults. Higher levels of iman also entail hearts overflowing for love of not only our fellow human beings, but also love of the Creator and the Loving, Allah. "Say surely my prayer, my sacrifice, my living and dying are for Allah, the Lord of the Worlds." (6:162)
I would like to add for #4 that these acts of worship are important, and its true the sahaba reached such high places in jannah, because their faith led them to raise the kalima, and to establish peace and justice in the society.
I would also like to add that regarding #5, pleasing Allah is for children and it is also for adults. Higher levels of iman also entail hearts overflowing for love of not only our fellow human beings, but also love of the Creator and the Loving, Allah. "Say surely my prayer, my sacrifice, my living and dying are for Allah, the Lord of the Worlds." (6:162)
2004-03-07
DANIEL CERESA FROM USA said:
As non muslim but interested in knowing more, I really appreciate the objectivity of the concepts in this article. Excellent.
2004-03-07
ZAIN ALI FROM CANADA said:
Great article! :D
2004-03-07
UM NUR FROM CANADA said:
Al Hamdulillah for an excellent article. It probably will be misunderstood by people who are born Muslim and/or have lived their formative years in Muslim culture. Converts understand, however, how far away from the truth, how hard we yearned for guidance and how miraculous was our transformation from the beastly creatures that we were. Many of our Muslim brothers and sisters would have scorned us and considered us doomed had they known us in our Pre-Islamic years. By Allah's Grace and Mercy, we were guided. Each of these Kuffar that we so callously consign to hell is a potential Muslim. Allah knows them and us.
2004-03-07
EMAD FROM CANADA said:
Im in total agreement.mashaAllah excellent article. if only more people would understand it.especially the explanation of point #4.
2004-03-07
ZUBAIR FROM CANADA said:
Assalamualaikum....
I would just like to make a few comments regarding this article...i don't believe the dr. understands the wisdom behind us following the sunnah of the Best Creation of Allah..(s.w.t.)
it is not just mere rituals it is according to the Quran...this should be our first duty and more emphasis should be put on this rather than science and Technology...
Now don't get me wrong there is nothing but good in being ahead in science and tech..but more emphasis should be put in Quran and Sunnah because ultimately our purpose of life is to submit to the will of Allah...and not after Technology however benificial it may seem..
Overall it should be understood that Allah is in control of every aspect of life and the strength of the muslim Ummah lies solely in following the footsteps of Allah best creation(saw)and it this should we put our faith...
may Allah give us all understanding...ameen
I would just like to make a few comments regarding this article...i don't believe the dr. understands the wisdom behind us following the sunnah of the Best Creation of Allah..(s.w.t.)
it is not just mere rituals it is according to the Quran...this should be our first duty and more emphasis should be put on this rather than science and Technology...
Now don't get me wrong there is nothing but good in being ahead in science and tech..but more emphasis should be put in Quran and Sunnah because ultimately our purpose of life is to submit to the will of Allah...and not after Technology however benificial it may seem..
Overall it should be understood that Allah is in control of every aspect of life and the strength of the muslim Ummah lies solely in following the footsteps of Allah best creation(saw)and it this should we put our faith...
may Allah give us all understanding...ameen
2004-03-07
KERRY ARTHUR FROM GUYANA said:
It is unfortunate that though Ataturk died his complexes live and thrive now in the minds of so many Muslims living in a land where Christian Calvin's materialist perversion of faith drowns them. Oh Allah! Save us from knowledge that is ignorance and arrogance feigning humility.
2004-03-06
ZABHIER FROM UK said:
The basic principle of the writers argument is good, but delivery is poor. Most of the points, I do not agree with due to their oversimplification of the issues. However, I do understand that as Muslims, we must stand up and participate in the affairs of this world if we are to change it for the better. We will all have to answer to Allah on the last day... May Allah reward this writer for his efforts and guide us all to the straight path - Ameen.
2004-03-06
KHADIJA FROM CANADA said:
Assalamu Alaikum,
The article sums up many aspects of being a good Muslim and the importance of the way it should be done. This article is a beautiful way of looking at the life of a Muslim and how it should be run. A comment on the fourth point, it is true that preparing for the hearafter should not only be what you prepare between you and Allah but also the way you act with Muslims and other people. A point that should be emphized here is that we should live in this world but not part of it in a sense that we do things in order to benefit from them in the Dunya.
About the disbelievers and how they are judged, Allah said that only the believers will enter His paradise, so the kafirun that are good may not enter Heaven but have a lightened torment, but God knows best. Again, this was a nice article and provoked some thought on what the meaning of being a Muslim should be and its beauty.
The article sums up many aspects of being a good Muslim and the importance of the way it should be done. This article is a beautiful way of looking at the life of a Muslim and how it should be run. A comment on the fourth point, it is true that preparing for the hearafter should not only be what you prepare between you and Allah but also the way you act with Muslims and other people. A point that should be emphized here is that we should live in this world but not part of it in a sense that we do things in order to benefit from them in the Dunya.
About the disbelievers and how they are judged, Allah said that only the believers will enter His paradise, so the kafirun that are good may not enter Heaven but have a lightened torment, but God knows best. Again, this was a nice article and provoked some thought on what the meaning of being a Muslim should be and its beauty.
2004-03-06
MAIDUL ISLAM FROM BANGLADESH said:
Bismillah,salam,I totally disagree with u about the logics u showed for the 1st point,because,when u run ur country according to the Quran and sunnah,all the ppl will be in peace,and under the rahmat of Allmighty Allah(swt),and this the perfect situation to florish the knowlwdge,ifu doubt,then think about Ibn Sina,Al-khwarizim ect Muslim scollars who founded the base of the mordern science,andthey were from the time of islamic rule.And in the Quran Allah(swt) always
gave the schollars a special place,so how come u can think that a country ruled by the laws of Allah(swt),will be void of knowlwdge and happiness.The sayings of the scolars is right,u will not find any country ruled perfactly according to the holy Quran,its not just useful to practise islam in family or personal basis,but also country -wise it has to be established,in order to gain afterworld or present-world happiness.And its All-knowing Allah who gives knowledge,what u think,the knowledge u gained so far is aquired by u?no,Allah(swt) gave uthe knowlwdge,and He always insisted Human being to put effort to understand His creation,which means
knowledge.Socountry ruled according to the Quran
(to be continued in the next post)
gave the schollars a special place,so how come u can think that a country ruled by the laws of Allah(swt),will be void of knowlwdge and happiness.The sayings of the scolars is right,u will not find any country ruled perfactly according to the holy Quran,its not just useful to practise islam in family or personal basis,but also country -wise it has to be established,in order to gain afterworld or present-world happiness.And its All-knowing Allah who gives knowledge,what u think,the knowledge u gained so far is aquired by u?no,Allah(swt) gave uthe knowlwdge,and He always insisted Human being to put effort to understand His creation,which means
knowledge.Socountry ruled according to the Quran
(to be continued in the next post)
2004-03-06
MAIDUL ISLAM FROM BANGLADESH said:
Bismillah,salam,this is my comment about ur logics
about ur 4th & 5th points.1st of all thinking about
akhira just doesn't mean that u just pray and fast at ramadan,and go ittekaf to milad,go to and listen to relegious scollars.But also lead ur whole life according to the Quran;in the right way,which include doing all sorts of good things for the society as well as self-improvement.When a human being thinks about akhira,he or she fears
Allah(swt)as well,and then he is afraid to avoid his or her duty for the society(subhan allah.So at the end of the day,thinking of akhira inspires u more to contribue in the society,not discourage at all(nawjubillah).Think about Prophet Muhammad(pbuh), his life was full of activities involving society,and who more than prophets think
about akhira?so my brother its not true that thinking akhira more is not right.
Now about point 5th,suppose u adapt a child who u taught every laws of islam except for that u didnt
teah him that Allah(swt)is the Creator of the whole universe,so he will be very good person in heart and in action.He will be very kind,helpfull; he will pay jakat(to him its just donation for the poor ppl),he will fast at ramadan(to him its just purifying the heart,and to understand the sorrow of poor ppl,he will pray five times a day(to him its just meditation,which clams his mind. So will u call him a muslim? he has the culture of the muslim but he is not muslim,because he even does't know Who is his God;and he will act like a muslim
but he never devotes those actions to Allah(swt);
so it will be the same, if u do not do the actions to please Allah(swt).
To be a good muslim u have u to act in islamic way and belive in the heart as well,there is no point just to belive and not act,or act not belive. May Allah(swt) have mercy on all of us.
about ur 4th & 5th points.1st of all thinking about
akhira just doesn't mean that u just pray and fast at ramadan,and go ittekaf to milad,go to and listen to relegious scollars.But also lead ur whole life according to the Quran;in the right way,which include doing all sorts of good things for the society as well as self-improvement.When a human being thinks about akhira,he or she fears
Allah(swt)as well,and then he is afraid to avoid his or her duty for the society(subhan allah.So at the end of the day,thinking of akhira inspires u more to contribue in the society,not discourage at all(nawjubillah).Think about Prophet Muhammad(pbuh), his life was full of activities involving society,and who more than prophets think
about akhira?so my brother its not true that thinking akhira more is not right.
Now about point 5th,suppose u adapt a child who u taught every laws of islam except for that u didnt
teah him that Allah(swt)is the Creator of the whole universe,so he will be very good person in heart and in action.He will be very kind,helpfull; he will pay jakat(to him its just donation for the poor ppl),he will fast at ramadan(to him its just purifying the heart,and to understand the sorrow of poor ppl,he will pray five times a day(to him its just meditation,which clams his mind. So will u call him a muslim? he has the culture of the muslim but he is not muslim,because he even does't know Who is his God;and he will act like a muslim
but he never devotes those actions to Allah(swt);
so it will be the same, if u do not do the actions to please Allah(swt).
To be a good muslim u have u to act in islamic way and belive in the heart as well,there is no point just to belive and not act,or act not belive. May Allah(swt) have mercy on all of us.
2004-03-06
HASSAN MURTADHA FROM NIGERIA said:
first and fore most why i am indefferent is that the fact that i'm still leaning about islam, i will like to call 'ur attention to one of the verse of the holly qu'ran that says; it is of no blame on those whom the message did not reach or those whom it is not reach in a convince proof. to this i can agree to it. but to say we should not degrade other people could not totally rule out, because it happens at times when we do muslim are delevering inter faith lecture it go directly degrading other people faith.
2004-03-06
MAIDUL ISLAM FROM BANGLADESH said:
(continued from the previous post)
will try to encourage ppl to aquire more knowledge
in every branch of the knowlwdge.Itsour fault who dontfollow the laws of Allah(swt) properly.Anyway a man who fears Allah(swt),and finds Allah(swt) everywhere,he is naturally curious about this wonerfull creation of Allah(swt),and will always try to understand the nature whenever ge gets the chance,keeping in the mind that,this whole universe,every bits of it,is created Only and Only by All-mighty, all-knowing Allah(swt).This is out fault that we muslims fight each other which is aiginst the law of Allah(swt),its our fault that we dont stick together,wedont have simpathy/love for each other,we make disorders in the society;it would not happen if we would follow Quran and Sunnah properly;so,what imams are saying is verily true.May Allah(swt)have mercy on all of us.
will try to encourage ppl to aquire more knowledge
in every branch of the knowlwdge.Itsour fault who dontfollow the laws of Allah(swt) properly.Anyway a man who fears Allah(swt),and finds Allah(swt) everywhere,he is naturally curious about this wonerfull creation of Allah(swt),and will always try to understand the nature whenever ge gets the chance,keeping in the mind that,this whole universe,every bits of it,is created Only and Only by All-mighty, all-knowing Allah(swt).This is out fault that we muslims fight each other which is aiginst the law of Allah(swt),its our fault that we dont stick together,wedont have simpathy/love for each other,we make disorders in the society;it would not happen if we would follow Quran and Sunnah properly;so,what imams are saying is verily true.May Allah(swt)have mercy on all of us.
2004-03-06
MAIDUL ISLAM FROM BANGLADESH said:
Bismillah,salam,I totally disagree with u about the logics u showed for the 1st point,because,when u run ur country according to the Quran and sunnah,all the ppl will be in peace,and under the rahmat of Allmighty Allah(swt),and this the perfect situation to florish the knowlwdge,ifu doubt,then think about Ibn Sina,Al-khwarizim ect Muslim scollars who founded the base of the mordern science,andthey were from the time of islamic rule.And in the Quran Allah(swt) always
gave the schollars a special place,so how come u can think that a country ruled by the laws of Allah(swt),will be void of knowlwdge and happiness.The sayings of the scolars is right,u will not find any country ruled perfactly according to the holy Quran,its not just useful to practise islam in family or personal basis,but also country -wise it has to be established,in order to gain afterworld or present-world happiness.And its All-knowing Allah who gives knowledge,what u think,the knowledge u gained so far is aquired by u?no,Allah(swt) gave uthe knowlwdge,and He always insisted Human being to put effort to understand His creation,which means
knowledge.Socountry ruled according to the Quran
gave the schollars a special place,so how come u can think that a country ruled by the laws of Allah(swt),will be void of knowlwdge and happiness.The sayings of the scolars is right,u will not find any country ruled perfactly according to the holy Quran,its not just useful to practise islam in family or personal basis,but also country -wise it has to be established,in order to gain afterworld or present-world happiness.And its All-knowing Allah who gives knowledge,what u think,the knowledge u gained so far is aquired by u?no,Allah(swt) gave uthe knowlwdge,and He always insisted Human being to put effort to understand His creation,which means
knowledge.Socountry ruled according to the Quran
2004-03-06
MAIDUL ISLAM FROM BANGLADESH said:
Bismillah,salam,I totally disagree with u about the logics u showed for the 1st point,because,when u run ur country according to the Quran and sunnah,all the ppl will be in peace,and under the rahmat of Allmighty Allah(swt),and this the perfect situation to florish the knowlwdge,ifu doubt,then think about Ibn Sina,Al-khwarizim ect Muslim scollars who founded the base of the mordern science,andthey were from the time of islamic rule.And in the Quran Allah(swt) always
gave the schollars a special place,so how come u can think that a country ruled by the laws of Allah(swt),will be void of knowlwdge and happiness.The sayings of the scolars is right,u will not find any country ruled perfactly according to the holy Quran,its not just useful to practise islam in family or personal basis,but also country -wise it has to be established,in order to gain afterworld or present-world happiness.And its All-knowing Allah who gives knowledge,what u think,the knowledge u gained so far is aquired by u?no,Allah(swt) gave uthe knowlwdge,and He always insisted Human being to put effort to understand His creation,which means
knowledge.Socountry ruled according to the Quran
gave the schollars a special place,so how come u can think that a country ruled by the laws of Allah(swt),will be void of knowlwdge and happiness.The sayings of the scolars is right,u will not find any country ruled perfactly according to the holy Quran,its not just useful to practise islam in family or personal basis,but also country -wise it has to be established,in order to gain afterworld or present-world happiness.And its All-knowing Allah who gives knowledge,what u think,the knowledge u gained so far is aquired by u?no,Allah(swt) gave uthe knowlwdge,and He always insisted Human being to put effort to understand His creation,which means
knowledge.Socountry ruled according to the Quran
2004-03-06
JENNIFER FROM USA said:
on the first statement I just wanted to comment that just because Muslim countries may not be as wealthy or advanced as western culture does not mean they are not recieving blessings. Blessings come in many forms, not just that of wealth. I personally feel that eternal blessings are more sacred the the immediate blessing such as money, power. These are only monetary gain. I for one have a high respect for Muslim countries and the values that they hold.
2004-03-06
ABDULFATTAH OLATUNDE FROM NIGERIA said:
As-salam alaykum I am in support of the article,i found it interesting,educating,and spritual.please send more of this articles to muslims around the world.
2004-03-06
HUDD D'ALHAMD FROM LAND OF THE GREAT NORTH said:
Dr. Waheed Siddiqee thank you for this opportunity of discussion. It's a very valid concern.
1)Muslims are in a sad state of affairs because they are not following the Quran and Sunnah
This statement is ridiculous and self understating, because those Western powers are not following the Quran and Sunnah and they are the super powers and the leaders of the world. My point is that following or not following the Quran and Sunnah is not a matter of world domination. Religion is a two-edged sword, it can liberate and save you or it can enslave and condemn you. "Do for this World as you would never die and do for the Hereafter as you would die tomorrow." I grew up on this saying. Islam is a self liberating religion and way of life that causes you to sleep good at night(clean conciousness)and have that internal bliss that you have reserved a place with the righteous in God's Paradise. If somebody wants hell, there is lot of it. I live in the West because I chose to live here. It is my right, Allah gave me this right and as a free human I have this constitutional right to live where I choose to. I have a good life not because I chose to be a kaffir, but because I uphold my Islamic values. I am not alone. A lot of fundamentalist Muslims are very prosperous in the West. A lot of Muslims by the name are in jail, having AIDS, or filling the shelters. How I see it, those that uphold the Quran and Sunnah are the prosperous ones.
That the "Muslim" countries are in shambles? Once they were great? So was Greece. Look at Greece today. There are up and downs for every nation. Maybe we Muslims were not as greedy and cruel as the British, French or any of them. If the price of prosperity is to be dishonest, an imperialist, a fascist, a racist toward other nations or group of people, what is the merit of it? It is easy to be part of a prosperous nation in modern times, how it reached there is morally disputable. The blood of the Native Americans is a witne
1)Muslims are in a sad state of affairs because they are not following the Quran and Sunnah
This statement is ridiculous and self understating, because those Western powers are not following the Quran and Sunnah and they are the super powers and the leaders of the world. My point is that following or not following the Quran and Sunnah is not a matter of world domination. Religion is a two-edged sword, it can liberate and save you or it can enslave and condemn you. "Do for this World as you would never die and do for the Hereafter as you would die tomorrow." I grew up on this saying. Islam is a self liberating religion and way of life that causes you to sleep good at night(clean conciousness)and have that internal bliss that you have reserved a place with the righteous in God's Paradise. If somebody wants hell, there is lot of it. I live in the West because I chose to live here. It is my right, Allah gave me this right and as a free human I have this constitutional right to live where I choose to. I have a good life not because I chose to be a kaffir, but because I uphold my Islamic values. I am not alone. A lot of fundamentalist Muslims are very prosperous in the West. A lot of Muslims by the name are in jail, having AIDS, or filling the shelters. How I see it, those that uphold the Quran and Sunnah are the prosperous ones.
That the "Muslim" countries are in shambles? Once they were great? So was Greece. Look at Greece today. There are up and downs for every nation. Maybe we Muslims were not as greedy and cruel as the British, French or any of them. If the price of prosperity is to be dishonest, an imperialist, a fascist, a racist toward other nations or group of people, what is the merit of it? It is easy to be part of a prosperous nation in modern times, how it reached there is morally disputable. The blood of the Native Americans is a witne
2004-03-06
ANAS DIAB FROM CANADA said:
This was one of the most interesting Islamic articles I have read in a long time. I think the Islamic nation is very thirsty for such critical approaches in the Islamic literature.
I totally agree with all what has been said in it except for the issue of who is going to paradise. I can see the argument the author is proposing, and it is not irrational. However, I think it applies for those who never heard about Islam, or maybe heard about it in a very misleading way(and those can be a lot). Those who know everything about Islam and have encountered the bright light of truth in its ideology and still insisted on not embracing it, OR went further and tried to harm it in any way, those are not going to paradise no matter how "good" of persons they are.
Although I strongly believe in every single Islamic concept, I am not practicing Islam as much as I believe in it (but I am always trying to). And I can not remember how many times the Islamic ideology touched me very deep in the heart with its miraculous rules that solve all our world's problems without any of the "side effects" that exist in other man-made ideologies. My point is that there are many many ways for any good person thinking about any problem in his/her own environment (drinking, gambling, women's rights...etc) that will lead him/her to the Islamic solution, and it takes only a little bit more effort to get him/her to know more about this religion before, in my opinion, he/she has to be responsible for his/her choice between the truth and the responsibilities that come with it or the easier wasteful life.
I will be happy to receive emails about this topic if anyone has any other comments. My email address is [email protected]
Anas Diab
I totally agree with all what has been said in it except for the issue of who is going to paradise. I can see the argument the author is proposing, and it is not irrational. However, I think it applies for those who never heard about Islam, or maybe heard about it in a very misleading way(and those can be a lot). Those who know everything about Islam and have encountered the bright light of truth in its ideology and still insisted on not embracing it, OR went further and tried to harm it in any way, those are not going to paradise no matter how "good" of persons they are.
Although I strongly believe in every single Islamic concept, I am not practicing Islam as much as I believe in it (but I am always trying to). And I can not remember how many times the Islamic ideology touched me very deep in the heart with its miraculous rules that solve all our world's problems without any of the "side effects" that exist in other man-made ideologies. My point is that there are many many ways for any good person thinking about any problem in his/her own environment (drinking, gambling, women's rights...etc) that will lead him/her to the Islamic solution, and it takes only a little bit more effort to get him/her to know more about this religion before, in my opinion, he/she has to be responsible for his/her choice between the truth and the responsibilities that come with it or the easier wasteful life.
I will be happy to receive emails about this topic if anyone has any other comments. My email address is [email protected]
Anas Diab
2004-03-06
USMAN ALI HANNAN FROM BANGLADESH said:
A nice article. But sadly, as it pointed to the generality of some Muslim views, it suffered form over-generalization itself.
Only the analysis regarding Zakat stands on some objective analysis.
There is absolutely no doubt that muslims are in a sad state of affairs because they are not following Qur'an and Sunnah. That many non-muslims countries are rich doesn't contradict this fact. Even in our prophet's time, non-muslims, such as the Persians and Romans were much more affluent and strong. In the Qur'an, Allah stated that He gives wealth to whomever He wants. Being a Muslim or non-muslim is not an issue here. So when the appointed time comes, there is no doubt that Muslims in general will be rich in general.
Iman is a pre-requisite to enter heaven. If a person is a declared disbeliever, no matter how devoted or a religious or nice person he/she is, it is clear in Islam that hell is his/her destiny. This fact is not based on arrogance, but on sound evidnece. This was the situation in our prophet's time. We see in the Qur'an the Pharaon asked Musu when he invited him to Islam that what is then the condition of previous people? Obviously Pharoan thought that it is a smart question as so many people not believing in Isalm is a clear proof that they are all not going to hell. But Musa (Peace be upon him) gave a smart answer and Pharo's trick didn't work. In the Qur'an Allah made it clear that most of the mankind don't believe. We believe that a person is born in the state of Islam and then gradually he deviates himself due to various influences.As for the person who never heard about Islam in adult life, he has hope for Jannah, provided he didn't commit Shirk.Committing Shirk is a fundamental flow which doesn't require any message of prophet as a precaution.
Islamic concept is to think both about Akhira and duniya. But what is important is to not get blinded by the duniya and keep a proper perspective of Akhira in worldly affairs.
We act to pl
Only the analysis regarding Zakat stands on some objective analysis.
There is absolutely no doubt that muslims are in a sad state of affairs because they are not following Qur'an and Sunnah. That many non-muslims countries are rich doesn't contradict this fact. Even in our prophet's time, non-muslims, such as the Persians and Romans were much more affluent and strong. In the Qur'an, Allah stated that He gives wealth to whomever He wants. Being a Muslim or non-muslim is not an issue here. So when the appointed time comes, there is no doubt that Muslims in general will be rich in general.
Iman is a pre-requisite to enter heaven. If a person is a declared disbeliever, no matter how devoted or a religious or nice person he/she is, it is clear in Islam that hell is his/her destiny. This fact is not based on arrogance, but on sound evidnece. This was the situation in our prophet's time. We see in the Qur'an the Pharaon asked Musu when he invited him to Islam that what is then the condition of previous people? Obviously Pharoan thought that it is a smart question as so many people not believing in Isalm is a clear proof that they are all not going to hell. But Musa (Peace be upon him) gave a smart answer and Pharo's trick didn't work. In the Qur'an Allah made it clear that most of the mankind don't believe. We believe that a person is born in the state of Islam and then gradually he deviates himself due to various influences.As for the person who never heard about Islam in adult life, he has hope for Jannah, provided he didn't commit Shirk.Committing Shirk is a fundamental flow which doesn't require any message of prophet as a precaution.
Islamic concept is to think both about Akhira and duniya. But what is important is to not get blinded by the duniya and keep a proper perspective of Akhira in worldly affairs.
We act to pl
2004-03-06
HARRIS AYYOOB FROM CANADA said:
I WHOLEHEARTEDLY SUPPORT YOUR VIEWS. MAY GOD BLESS YOU.
2004-03-06
M OSMAN FROM USA said:
It is about time we let our religion lead us into the current century. Islam is the most progressive religion on Earth, its message is eternal and your article points muslims in the right direction. Thank you.
2004-03-06
FAITHFUL BUT PURPORTED NON-BELIEVER FROM US said:
Being a non-Muslim but having many strongly devoted Muslim friends, I have been forced to consider the points raised by this essay time and time again. I think that the points raised by this essay is so valid and relevent to the way that we live our lives. First of all, I have to say that just because I have not recited the Kalima, it does not mean that I am devoid of goodness or a singular faith in God. I try to live my life with the best intentions and corresponding actions. To think that I am condemed to hell just because I was born into another faith makes me feel like we are discrediting the graciousness of Allah, of God. I hope that
2004-03-06
HESHAM said:
Excellent article. I applaud Dr. Siddiqee for his brave and honest statement. The unfortunate truth is that such dialog is rare in the Umma today and I'm afraid we will contue to languish until we over come that In Shaa Allah.
2004-03-06
ABDUL KAREEM FROM FRANCE said:
I was about to comment Siddiqee's article until I red Brother Abdul Razaq reply...Honestly He saved me time in lying out an additional one. Brother Abdul Razaq I couldn't agree more (with you)...My Allah accept from us and give us guidance and guide those whom are misguided...
There are some true facts (Quran and sunnah) we simply cannot overpass, by any mean, when making such statements (Siddiqee)...
You all (Muslims brothers and sisters), I dont know you but I know one thing: I love you for the sake of Allah...
"Assirou quawlakoum aou idj'Harrou bihi, Inahou alimounn bi da'ati es-soudour ""
Essalamou Aliakoum
There are some true facts (Quran and sunnah) we simply cannot overpass, by any mean, when making such statements (Siddiqee)...
You all (Muslims brothers and sisters), I dont know you but I know one thing: I love you for the sake of Allah...
"Assirou quawlakoum aou idj'Harrou bihi, Inahou alimounn bi da'ati es-soudour ""
Essalamou Aliakoum
2004-03-06
ABDUL BATIN RAFQ FROM USA said:
THOSE WHO OBEY MUHAMMAD {S.A.W}ARE INFACT OBEYING ALLAH {S.W.A}.LET US NOT FORGET THIS ONE TRUE FACT.BUT THOSE OF US THAT MAKE DEALS WITH THE ENEMY JUST TO GAIN NAME ,FAME ,POWER,
AND MONEY THEY ARE THE PROBLEMS THAT HAVE GIVEN MANY
MUSLIMS A NEW WAY OF THINKING CONCERNING HOW TO PRACTICE ISLAM. FOR EXAMPLE, WHO WOULD HAVE THOUGHT THAT ONE WOULD BE ABLE TO FIND A FAST FOOD RESTURANT IN A WELL KNOWN MUSLIM CITY THAT IS CONCIDERED TO BE A VERY HOLY ISLAMIC PLACE?
IF WE WANT TO STOP THE CHAOS THAT EXISTS WITHIN OUR LIVES, WE MUST BEGIN TO STUDY THIS RELIGION ACCORDING TO THE WAY THAT IT WAS TAUGHT AND THEN PRACTICED. THE GREAT WORLD LEADERS UNDERSTAND
ISLAM AND THEY HATE IT , BECAUSE THEY KNOW THAT THIS RELIGION IF ALLOWED TO ESTABLISH A TRUE KALIPHASHIP WOULD SHUT DOWN ALL OF WHAT THEY ARE NOW.
AND MONEY THEY ARE THE PROBLEMS THAT HAVE GIVEN MANY
MUSLIMS A NEW WAY OF THINKING CONCERNING HOW TO PRACTICE ISLAM. FOR EXAMPLE, WHO WOULD HAVE THOUGHT THAT ONE WOULD BE ABLE TO FIND A FAST FOOD RESTURANT IN A WELL KNOWN MUSLIM CITY THAT IS CONCIDERED TO BE A VERY HOLY ISLAMIC PLACE?
IF WE WANT TO STOP THE CHAOS THAT EXISTS WITHIN OUR LIVES, WE MUST BEGIN TO STUDY THIS RELIGION ACCORDING TO THE WAY THAT IT WAS TAUGHT AND THEN PRACTICED. THE GREAT WORLD LEADERS UNDERSTAND
ISLAM AND THEY HATE IT , BECAUSE THEY KNOW THAT THIS RELIGION IF ALLOWED TO ESTABLISH A TRUE KALIPHASHIP WOULD SHUT DOWN ALL OF WHAT THEY ARE NOW.
2004-03-06
ASADULLAH FROM CANADA said:
I don't think western nations are advanced. They are just rich and powerful. Any dacoit can be strong and rich. Technology of making a lota and a computerized toilet are the same in my view. Their sciences are mere conjecture with no direction and goals defined. Muslims know the reality. They don't. That's why they are kafir because they don't wanna know the reality. Muslims DO NEED TO ACT. But to act on their "Deen". Deen is the way to prosper IN THIS LIFE and the HEREAFTER. It is a set of guidlines, and not a static idol to be worshipped. Knowledge without conjecture and action is what we need.
Iqbal says
"God's regent on Earth,
Thou knowest not thy worth;
Sunk by self-abnegation,
Sunk by a lack of vision"
"How long wilt thou be
A slave of the worhless world?
Either be an ascetic,
or a king of men."
Paying Zakat and fulfilling the comandments will please Allah and will bring baraka in the economic system. As someone said already, economic system is dynamic and grows exponentially. A poor person might not be poor next year if you support him by giving him zakat.
3. Without any prejudice in my mind, I would say that Shirk is zulmun azeem as mentioned in Quran. If some non muslim belives in Allah without any partners or forms or associations then the matter is betwen them and Allah and we dont know about their fate. But the Quran is clear about mushrikeen.
4. Creating a better society is essential in Islam but not the ultimate goal. Ultimate Goal is to Worship Allah and try to please Him.
5.You are best muslims in your childhood. So these things are not "childish".Instead the true essence of Islam i.e Fitrah.
"The true motivation for doing something good should be a genuine conviction that this is the right thing to do..." What's the difference between this statement and pleasing Allah?
"Be not content with this earth,
Though it has a myriad colours;
There are rose-embowered gardens,
Ethereal abodes for thee"
Iqbal says
"God's regent on Earth,
Thou knowest not thy worth;
Sunk by self-abnegation,
Sunk by a lack of vision"
"How long wilt thou be
A slave of the worhless world?
Either be an ascetic,
or a king of men."
Paying Zakat and fulfilling the comandments will please Allah and will bring baraka in the economic system. As someone said already, economic system is dynamic and grows exponentially. A poor person might not be poor next year if you support him by giving him zakat.
3. Without any prejudice in my mind, I would say that Shirk is zulmun azeem as mentioned in Quran. If some non muslim belives in Allah without any partners or forms or associations then the matter is betwen them and Allah and we dont know about their fate. But the Quran is clear about mushrikeen.
4. Creating a better society is essential in Islam but not the ultimate goal. Ultimate Goal is to Worship Allah and try to please Him.
5.You are best muslims in your childhood. So these things are not "childish".Instead the true essence of Islam i.e Fitrah.
"The true motivation for doing something good should be a genuine conviction that this is the right thing to do..." What's the difference between this statement and pleasing Allah?
"Be not content with this earth,
Though it has a myriad colours;
There are rose-embowered gardens,
Ethereal abodes for thee"
2004-03-06
DAUD AZIZI FROM USA said:
I agree with Dr. Siddiquee's article but would like to make the following comments about item number five:
God says in the Quran that "We have not created Man and Jin, except for worship(worshiping God)". Most of the reasonable muslim scholars would agree that this does not mean spending one's entire life on the prayer rug. Fortunately in Islam even mundane acts such as getting up (with the intent for khair), traveling to work in order to earn a living, going to school, any act of kindness and good citizenship,even sexual relationship with one's lawful spouse qualifies as worship as long as one has the proper intention and dhikr of God in min/heart.Also God says"Those who have faith, reassure their hearts with dhikr of Allah; indeed dhikr of Allah is reassurance for the hearts". The benifits of dhikr or being cognizant of God is well established. Furthermore, it is wishful thinking that except for a few, people would achieve such a state of moral development that they would do the good and the right things without any external influences such as rule of law, codes of ethics and yes remembering religious doctrins. So I agree that while it is very desirable to have a society where people are doing good as a second nature,because they had proper training and up-bringing, given our(mankind, muslims in particular) present situation we need to be reminded.
God says in the Quran that "We have not created Man and Jin, except for worship(worshiping God)". Most of the reasonable muslim scholars would agree that this does not mean spending one's entire life on the prayer rug. Fortunately in Islam even mundane acts such as getting up (with the intent for khair), traveling to work in order to earn a living, going to school, any act of kindness and good citizenship,even sexual relationship with one's lawful spouse qualifies as worship as long as one has the proper intention and dhikr of God in min/heart.Also God says"Those who have faith, reassure their hearts with dhikr of Allah; indeed dhikr of Allah is reassurance for the hearts". The benifits of dhikr or being cognizant of God is well established. Furthermore, it is wishful thinking that except for a few, people would achieve such a state of moral development that they would do the good and the right things without any external influences such as rule of law, codes of ethics and yes remembering religious doctrins. So I agree that while it is very desirable to have a society where people are doing good as a second nature,because they had proper training and up-bringing, given our(mankind, muslims in particular) present situation we need to be reminded.
2004-03-06
IMAN FROM USA said:
Alhamdulillah. It is SO refreshing to read an article like this. I am so tired of generalizing statements made by our Muslim community that are not critically examined and instead, excuse our shortcomings. Excellent article. Keep them coming!
Iman
Iman
2004-03-06
MIKE FROM USA said:
I would like to know what kind of "Dr." your title is. Is it math doctorite or Islamic studies. I say most likely that it is not Islamic studies. The esaay is shallow; it would not pass college level English.
...
...
2004-03-06
MANNA FROM CANADA said:
Really, I am not sure what the writer's point is in general. Certainly, he has some points to share. If he wants to encourage people to improve their dunya etc., this is good advice. Why the writer chooses to link this advice to certain integral principles of the faith, in order to disprove them, is beyond understanding.
This writing seems to concentrate more on the concrete way of thinking that is common in people with an overdeveloped intellect and a weak heart.
As muslims when we obey Allah and His messenger and make all our intentions for His pleasure, looking for His promise of paradise and refusing to be seduced by the life of this world, it sets in motion a chain of events that are not just as concrete as calculating zakat. It generates mercy, grace and favor of Allah to be lavished on us, this in turn causes our dunya - knowledge, wealth, power etc - to be corrected and improved. This is our understanding as muslims. There is a spiritual aspect to these 5 statements.
In Islam, we believe that if we do our part, then Allah in His turn will do His. It is a give and take relationship. So by following Quran and Sunnah, paying Zakat, having Iman (faith), hoping for akhira and looking for the pleasure of Allah, we are doing our part knowing, as Allah promised in the quran, that He will do His.
May Allah guide us all aright. amin
This writing seems to concentrate more on the concrete way of thinking that is common in people with an overdeveloped intellect and a weak heart.
As muslims when we obey Allah and His messenger and make all our intentions for His pleasure, looking for His promise of paradise and refusing to be seduced by the life of this world, it sets in motion a chain of events that are not just as concrete as calculating zakat. It generates mercy, grace and favor of Allah to be lavished on us, this in turn causes our dunya - knowledge, wealth, power etc - to be corrected and improved. This is our understanding as muslims. There is a spiritual aspect to these 5 statements.
In Islam, we believe that if we do our part, then Allah in His turn will do His. It is a give and take relationship. So by following Quran and Sunnah, paying Zakat, having Iman (faith), hoping for akhira and looking for the pleasure of Allah, we are doing our part knowing, as Allah promised in the quran, that He will do His.
May Allah guide us all aright. amin
2004-03-06
LIAQUAT ALLY FROM CANADA said:
I agree with the sentiments expressed in this article. I pray that Allah allows you to continue to educate both Muslims and non-Muslims about the true spirit of Islam. How can we do this if we continue to remain inward looking and refuse to communicate with those of other faiths? Let us pray that Allah grants understanding to all of us that we we may strive for that just, peaceful, compassionate world that Allah desires for us.
2004-03-06
FAWAAD QAMAR FROM USA said:
Assalam-o-alaikum,
My advice to the Doctor is that he should sit in the company of rightly guided sholars. They have the answers to the five questions and many other more pertinent ones. Nice choice of questions Masha'Allah.
I also request Islamicity that when having people write about Islamic opinions they should have the rightly guided scholars write these articles as they can address these issues the best. Now due to this article people might think that doing things for the sake of Allah is not part of Islam whie it most certainly is a part of Islam.
My advice to the Doctor is that he should sit in the company of rightly guided sholars. They have the answers to the five questions and many other more pertinent ones. Nice choice of questions Masha'Allah.
I also request Islamicity that when having people write about Islamic opinions they should have the rightly guided scholars write these articles as they can address these issues the best. Now due to this article people might think that doing things for the sake of Allah is not part of Islam whie it most certainly is a part of Islam.
2004-03-06
HAROON RASHEED FROM MALAYSIA said:
Fully agree with your valuable comments. Alhamdulillh. Keep the good work going.
2004-03-06
BEJAN FROM U.S.A said:
Asalamalkum, I would like to just comment on this article and thank Dr.Siddigee for writing it. I agree with him on every point.Many people in the west get asked a question in regards to the third question,especially from non-believers but the answer the Doctor gave was really good I was personally looking for a better clarification of what I have heard and read about that particular question.Jazakillah khairun
2004-03-06
ABU ISA FROM ENGLAND said:
Asalaamu alaikum.
I find this article to be full of discrepencies and lacking any proofs from divine sources. No where do I see "Allah says" or "Muhammad said" ANYWHERE in this article.
In the section "Anything you do, should be done to please Allah", the statement of RasoolAllah (salallahu alayhi wasalam) "Actions are judgement by intention..." is enough for us to CONSTANTLY remind ourselves that we should be doing something to please Allah.
Ok, in a perfect world, I would agree with that statement ("these commandments should be so ingrained in our lives"), but RasoolAllah even SAID one of the most things he feared for this ummah was RIYA (showing off)
Why? because SHAYTAAN IS GOOD AT HIS JOB! He whispers to us to change our intention! & we need to remind ourselves, so that we DONT fall into RIYA and that what we are doing is to PLEASE ALLAH.
I apologise if I have offended anyone....but i find that this article is an insult to the teachings of our beloved RasoolAllah (salallahu alayhi wasalam). For someone to say (the jist being) "Non-Muslims countries are doing better than muslim countries and they are not following the sunnah" is an insult to RasoolAllah.
When RasoolAllah was lying on a mat made from PALM LEAVES that left an imprint in his BACK, Umar started CRYING, saying "Ya RasoolAllah, these kings sleep on beds of silk and velvet, and you on this palm mat'. and our beloved messenger, May Allah send His peace and blesssings upon Him, said 'It is not a thing to cry about. For them is the world and for us the hereafter'.
They had LESS than the Kufaar, but Rasoolallah (saw) didnt say "oh we should leave the Quraan and Sunnah and that will make us more advanced"
Look at the example of the sahabahs - as these were the people Allah was pleased with! - they were the ones who said "we hear and obey" not "we hear...but i think its this or that!"
Read the books of the SCHOLARS of ISLAM, which are FILLED with the proofs from Allah and His
I find this article to be full of discrepencies and lacking any proofs from divine sources. No where do I see "Allah says" or "Muhammad said" ANYWHERE in this article.
In the section "Anything you do, should be done to please Allah", the statement of RasoolAllah (salallahu alayhi wasalam) "Actions are judgement by intention..." is enough for us to CONSTANTLY remind ourselves that we should be doing something to please Allah.
Ok, in a perfect world, I would agree with that statement ("these commandments should be so ingrained in our lives"), but RasoolAllah even SAID one of the most things he feared for this ummah was RIYA (showing off)
Why? because SHAYTAAN IS GOOD AT HIS JOB! He whispers to us to change our intention! & we need to remind ourselves, so that we DONT fall into RIYA and that what we are doing is to PLEASE ALLAH.
I apologise if I have offended anyone....but i find that this article is an insult to the teachings of our beloved RasoolAllah (salallahu alayhi wasalam). For someone to say (the jist being) "Non-Muslims countries are doing better than muslim countries and they are not following the sunnah" is an insult to RasoolAllah.
When RasoolAllah was lying on a mat made from PALM LEAVES that left an imprint in his BACK, Umar started CRYING, saying "Ya RasoolAllah, these kings sleep on beds of silk and velvet, and you on this palm mat'. and our beloved messenger, May Allah send His peace and blesssings upon Him, said 'It is not a thing to cry about. For them is the world and for us the hereafter'.
They had LESS than the Kufaar, but Rasoolallah (saw) didnt say "oh we should leave the Quraan and Sunnah and that will make us more advanced"
Look at the example of the sahabahs - as these were the people Allah was pleased with! - they were the ones who said "we hear and obey" not "we hear...but i think its this or that!"
Read the books of the SCHOLARS of ISLAM, which are FILLED with the proofs from Allah and His
2004-03-06
YVONNE PROVENZANO FROM USA said:
This articke was balanced and comforting. I thought it was excellent and very illuminating
May Allah be pleased with my life and enable me to live my Deen in a sweet and effective way towards all those around me.
May Allah be pleased with my life and enable me to live my Deen in a sweet and effective way towards all those around me.
2004-03-06
HAMEED , SHAHUL FROM INDIA said:
Some points are worth considering ,but can not agree completely.You can not under estimate Following Quran and Sunnah just like that, instead we must encourage Muslims to study more on Quran and Teachings of Prophet.Solution lies there for Success in BOTH WORLDS.
2004-03-06
ABU WAJAHAT FROM UNITED KINGDOM said:
Dr Siddiqi should not apologise for Muslims. The Holy Quran says: "La Ikra Fid-deen..." There is no compulsion. If one wishes to be a true Muslim then there is no compromise with a "middle path" as Dr Siddiqi seems to be suggesting. Follow the true principles of Islam based on The Holy Quran and the Sunnah. In this there is peace for mankind and salvation for the Muslim Ummah - nowhere else. May Allah Subhan-wa Ta'la Grant us the wisdom and His Mercy to stay on the right path.
2004-03-06
TAUHEED AHMAD FROM INDIA said:
Al salam al hadaitana,
where does authors arguement stand is evident form the no. of responses against it.
If author believes that anyone can demarcate between by his own intelligence and need not depepnd upon the source revealed by Allah and need not believe in His messengfers.. i she saying that he is not believing in Qur'an, which clearly spells out:
136. O ye who believe! Believe in Allah and His Messenger, and the scripture which He hath sent to His Messenger and the scripture which He sent to those before (him). Any who denieth Allah, His angels, His Books, His Messenger., and the Day of Judgment, hath gone far, far astray. Al-Nisa
Wassalam
where does authors arguement stand is evident form the no. of responses against it.
If author believes that anyone can demarcate between by his own intelligence and need not depepnd upon the source revealed by Allah and need not believe in His messengfers.. i she saying that he is not believing in Qur'an, which clearly spells out:
136. O ye who believe! Believe in Allah and His Messenger, and the scripture which He hath sent to His Messenger and the scripture which He sent to those before (him). Any who denieth Allah, His angels, His Books, His Messenger., and the Day of Judgment, hath gone far, far astray. Al-Nisa
Wassalam
2004-03-06
MUNA HASSAN FROM CANADA said:
I would like to say that I think the article was well written and very enlightening for Muslims and non-Muslims alike.
2004-03-06
OMAR FROM EGYPT said:
However I do like this article but I think it needs to be connected with islamic sources (quran and hadith) , as a muslim I dont accept any opinions in the relegion with out a(daleel) proof from islamic sources, this makes me reassured,especially when talking about general issues touching our life.For examlpe you didnt point out where you got your opinion about the 3rd statement ,when the prophet muhammed said (Any christian or jewish will hear with me and not follow me but will go to the hell) and many other islamic texts say the same.If you have a point ,please connect it with the daleel,not only with mind,so that I can accept it
2004-03-06
KHALID FROM INDIA said:
Assalam alaikom.
May Allah shower HIs mercy on the Mankind to understand Islam.I m completely agree with this statement.
AS a individual point of view..every person has it own perception towards Life.So,the perceive what he has learned from his own experience.
Islam starts from purification of heart not from any physical act..if heart is sound everything will follow correctly.
Yes,due to short and incomplete knowledge of Islam leads to hell.
May Allah almighty Grant mercy on Mankind and the person r in Faith .
Islamic Brother
May Allah shower HIs mercy on the Mankind to understand Islam.I m completely agree with this statement.
AS a individual point of view..every person has it own perception towards Life.So,the perceive what he has learned from his own experience.
Islam starts from purification of heart not from any physical act..if heart is sound everything will follow correctly.
Yes,due to short and incomplete knowledge of Islam leads to hell.
May Allah almighty Grant mercy on Mankind and the person r in Faith .
Islamic Brother
2004-03-06
UMAR MUHAMMAD FROM U.S. said:
This is a good thought provoking article that should be be read by every Muslim because the Muslim Ummah today dearly needs unity and strength as during the rule the Khilafah Rashidun.
2004-03-06
A LATIF FROM CANADA said:
Very enlightening.
2004-03-06
ABDUL RAZAQ FROM CANADA said:
Bismillahi r-Rahmani r-Raheem
May Allah accept our efforts and overlook our shortcomings.
On 1: Yes we in the west are economically, scientifically, and militarily very advanced BUT muslim lands are more advanced spiritually. The key to the next life, is spiritual advancement. The author's interpretation is overtly simplistic without giving due relevance to the hegemony of the west & it's complicity in the present state of muslim lands, with Allah's leave. The ummah imploded (when we strayed from guidance) & the west picked up the pieces - the key to the resurgence of the muslims..individually & collectively do lie in going back to basics -Qur'aan & Sunnah. Also All WILL is Allah's.
On 2: Being poor is not a class, it is a state. Wealth creation is dynamic and indeed someone who received zakaat in a year may join the group of zakaat giver the next. And this could lead to a chain reaction where more people will be zakaat-giver.
On 3: "Those who disbelief, Among the people of the Book and among the polytheists, will be in hell-fire, to dwell therein (for aye). They are the worst of creatures"Q98v6. My advice to the author -pray for anyone you know who is in this category for Allah to guide them before they die. Also give sincere advise to them -so that they will not have evidence against you on the day of qiyaamah. Fear Allah and seek His pleasure alone.
On4: This casts a whimsical judgement on our religious leaders - intelectual stereotyping at play. Also what does participating in Milad mean ? is this deen or culture ?
On5: Do adults forget ?, Do we need to be reminded ? Iman is dynamic, and it goes up or down depending on constant striving to please Allah..Allah's teachings on this is clear _Reminding is beneficial to believers - . On a lighter note, this remind me of the safs we make for salaat in jama'ah, we are reminded everytime and yet it takes effort to make it straight, each time.ha!
Astaghfurullah.Astaghfurullah Inahu huwa G
May Allah accept our efforts and overlook our shortcomings.
On 1: Yes we in the west are economically, scientifically, and militarily very advanced BUT muslim lands are more advanced spiritually. The key to the next life, is spiritual advancement. The author's interpretation is overtly simplistic without giving due relevance to the hegemony of the west & it's complicity in the present state of muslim lands, with Allah's leave. The ummah imploded (when we strayed from guidance) & the west picked up the pieces - the key to the resurgence of the muslims..individually & collectively do lie in going back to basics -Qur'aan & Sunnah. Also All WILL is Allah's.
On 2: Being poor is not a class, it is a state. Wealth creation is dynamic and indeed someone who received zakaat in a year may join the group of zakaat giver the next. And this could lead to a chain reaction where more people will be zakaat-giver.
On 3: "Those who disbelief, Among the people of the Book and among the polytheists, will be in hell-fire, to dwell therein (for aye). They are the worst of creatures"Q98v6. My advice to the author -pray for anyone you know who is in this category for Allah to guide them before they die. Also give sincere advise to them -so that they will not have evidence against you on the day of qiyaamah. Fear Allah and seek His pleasure alone.
On4: This casts a whimsical judgement on our religious leaders - intelectual stereotyping at play. Also what does participating in Milad mean ? is this deen or culture ?
On5: Do adults forget ?, Do we need to be reminded ? Iman is dynamic, and it goes up or down depending on constant striving to please Allah..Allah's teachings on this is clear _Reminding is beneficial to believers - . On a lighter note, this remind me of the safs we make for salaat in jama'ah, we are reminded everytime and yet it takes effort to make it straight, each time.ha!
Astaghfurullah.Astaghfurullah Inahu huwa G
2004-03-06
SALAAD FROM UNITED STATES said:
1. Muslims are in a sad state of affairs because they are not following the Quran and Sunnah.
R: I completely agree with what this statement says. Abandoned teaching within it (unity, strength, and being steadfast in our values) are the unquestionalbe reason for this.
2. The problem of poverty in Muslim countries will go away if every one paid his/her share of Zakat.
R: I agree with the writer in this. However looking the economical affect of charity it helps in economic development.
3. No matter how good a person you are you will not go to Paradise if you do not have true Iman (Faith)
R:I don't agree with the writer on this. It is very clear in the Qur'an what is the right believe and what is the reward for disbelieving. However, whom ever Allah puts in His mercy, then He is their Lord and all matter are in His hands. (I hope I had more room to discuss this point.)
4. We should think more about Akhira (Life after death) than about Dunya (worldly life)
R: I disagree with the writer in this. We should think about the hereafter more and if we make such action a nature, we should strive to conciously make intention for it still. However, taking from this world what is reasonable while not making it wherein our focus is center is what Allah has allowed us, and He is always merciful toward His creature (human or otherwise)
5. Anything you do, should be done to please Allah
R: Here what the writer fails to realise is that pleasing Allah is a spiritual front and all physical action done for this reason is meant to enforce the spiritual part. Hence Allah says that He will purify us for giving Zakat. This clearly mean spiritual purification and not water that washes our physical dirt. I hope I have contributed positively,and I surely didn't mean to offend anyone.And I hope that the writer is not influenced by his role in interfaith and what is mainly a political role. Surely understanding is best derived from what Allah has revealed of knowledge,not our
R: I completely agree with what this statement says. Abandoned teaching within it (unity, strength, and being steadfast in our values) are the unquestionalbe reason for this.
2. The problem of poverty in Muslim countries will go away if every one paid his/her share of Zakat.
R: I agree with the writer in this. However looking the economical affect of charity it helps in economic development.
3. No matter how good a person you are you will not go to Paradise if you do not have true Iman (Faith)
R:I don't agree with the writer on this. It is very clear in the Qur'an what is the right believe and what is the reward for disbelieving. However, whom ever Allah puts in His mercy, then He is their Lord and all matter are in His hands. (I hope I had more room to discuss this point.)
4. We should think more about Akhira (Life after death) than about Dunya (worldly life)
R: I disagree with the writer in this. We should think about the hereafter more and if we make such action a nature, we should strive to conciously make intention for it still. However, taking from this world what is reasonable while not making it wherein our focus is center is what Allah has allowed us, and He is always merciful toward His creature (human or otherwise)
5. Anything you do, should be done to please Allah
R: Here what the writer fails to realise is that pleasing Allah is a spiritual front and all physical action done for this reason is meant to enforce the spiritual part. Hence Allah says that He will purify us for giving Zakat. This clearly mean spiritual purification and not water that washes our physical dirt. I hope I have contributed positively,and I surely didn't mean to offend anyone.And I hope that the writer is not influenced by his role in interfaith and what is mainly a political role. Surely understanding is best derived from what Allah has revealed of knowledge,not our
2004-03-06
EIHAB said:
The authors version of the Sir Syed Ahamd Khan et al.'s claim that Christians and Jews are not Kafirs smacks of a hidden agenda to appease Westerners rather than advise Muslims based on Islam. He offers no proof for it whatsoever. It didn't work for the Sir (in the end his British masters gave him the short end of the stick), it won't work for him. Certainly this kind of Kufir apologia well not lead us very far.
2004-03-05
AYESHA FROM SOUTH AFRICA said:
Excellent and thought provoking. Illiterate molvis throughout the world (my experience of illiterate molvis in South Africa and their jahil teachings makes my hair stand on end)will off course dismiss this excellent article. Muslims MUST learn to think for themselves and not be brainwashed by unlearned and unsophisticated self proclaimed moulanas/molvis/ulema, who have destroyed the beauty of this Deen of Islam and the loving humility and leadership of our beloved
Nabi Muhummad Mustupaha (SAW). Please my beloved brothers and sisters take charge of your minds and your lives and think for yourselves. Guard yourselves against jahilyat and brainwashing. You owe it to yourselves to enrich your lives as Muslims by being part of this world and indeed preparing for the Aakirah.
May you always have the blessing of Allah Subhanatual's mercy showered on you and the love for Allah Subhantula and our beloved Nabi (SAW) in your heart.
Nabi Muhummad Mustupaha (SAW). Please my beloved brothers and sisters take charge of your minds and your lives and think for yourselves. Guard yourselves against jahilyat and brainwashing. You owe it to yourselves to enrich your lives as Muslims by being part of this world and indeed preparing for the Aakirah.
May you always have the blessing of Allah Subhanatual's mercy showered on you and the love for Allah Subhantula and our beloved Nabi (SAW) in your heart.
2004-03-05
MALEK ABDEL-FATTAH FROM USA said:
Excellent article. We must always strive to understand the meaning behind our actions, instead of spending our life performing, saying, and memorizing anecdotes without meaning. This is the ultimate disrespect to God and his messengers.
2004-03-05
