Do I have to believe 100% of Islam to convert?
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Topic: Do I have to believe 100% of Islam to convert?
Posted By: Lizzil
Subject: Do I have to believe 100% of Islam to convert?
Date Posted: 08 August 2008 at 12:03pm
I am studying Islam and have learned a lot. I think it is beautiful and I want to convert. I know that I do NOT know everything or understand everything yet, but I am learning. I have some questions about the things I have learned though and I wonder if I can convert to Islam if I do not immediately believe everything I learn through Islam.
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Replies:
Posted By: Serenity258
Date Posted: 08 August 2008 at 9:56pm
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Hi Lizzil. In my opinion once believe that Allah is God and the only one that should be worshipped and that Muhammad is His messenger then u should go ahead and convert. No one knows everything about Islam right away. I am a convert for 8 yrs now and I am still learning new things everyday and the more I learn the more my faith grows. When I accepted Islam I didnt believe everything 100% either. The only thing I was really sure of was that there was only ONE God. I had done comparative studies in religion and I found that Islam was the only religion that made sense so I accepted Islam. Day by day I am realizing the beauty of Islam and that it is the only true religion.
I dont think anyone can be a perfect Muslim all the time. The important thing is to keep learning about Islam and once u know something is wrong u strive to avoid it and u strive to keep doing the right.
I hope my reply can be of some help to u.
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Posted By: Chrysalis
Date Posted: 09 August 2008 at 4:16am
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I think that by starting to believe in Islam, one automatically enters its folds . .
Ofcourse you will not know/understand everything about Islam . . . not even a scholar is perfect! You can continue to learn about Islam everyday of your muslim life. All muslims do . . . nobody is ever a perfect Muslim.
Dont fret about 'not bieng a good muslim' . . . because to me, the mere fact that you are worrying about bieng a good muslim, and actually care about gaining knowledge of Islam, speaks volumes. That is the sign of a 'good muslim' :)
You can start practising Islam and experimenting . . . if you still have doubts, you can take your time until making things 'official' or public. Because at the infancy stage of bieng Muslim, I would think its natural to have doubts, need space. (I hope I dont get berated for saying that!) but until then, you can/are still a Muslim at heart. Also, feel free to talk to us, and question us. We are lucky on this forum to have quite a few very good people who are converts as well. They would love to help you out. All 'new' muslims need a support group - so we are here for you. I hope Shasta's Aunt, Hayfa and Salam's Wife reply with thier opinions/advise soon . . .they can probably help you out much better.
As for evolution - sis, in Islam it is not a requirement of 'faith' or 'belief' to shun evolution. There are a lot of controversies about it, not only religously, but scientifically as well . . . The only difference that Muslims have with Evolution is that humans did not 'evolve' out of apes or anytype of unicellular organism. We believe that God created Adam and Eve - and we decended or 'evolved' out of them. Perhaps other muslims with more knowledge of the issue can help you out there. But rest assured, that is a trivial matter, not significant enough to affect ones faith or Muslim-ness. And shouldnt stop one from accepting the truth.
In the meanwhile, do post any specific questions/issues you may have.
Best Regards, ------------- "O Lord, forgive me, my parents and Muslims in the Hereafter. O Lord, show mercy on them as they showed mercy to me when I was young." |
Posted By: minuteman
Date Posted: 10 August 2008 at 1:29am
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Good chance Lizzil for you. You have been granted some guidance. You should be thankful to God for that. If you are thankful then God will grant you more and more. Please remember that believing is the first step. That is deciding about the truth of Islam. When we accept the truth then we become Momineen (Believers). Our goal is to be Muslims (submitters to the Will of God).
But belief is very important first step and time should not be wasted for that. Do not worry about evolution. God will not ask you any question about evolution in the next life. Please remember that there is more about evolution in the Quran than it is in any other religion. You will learn all things gradually.
First: WE have to decide that there is no God except One i.e. Allah and that Muhammad is a messenger of Allah.
We have to believe in all angels of Allah.
We have to believe in all the revealed books of Allah.
We have to believe in all the messengers of Allah.
We have to believe that part of the matters are decided in Heavens by Allah.
After having believed the above, we should not let any doubt come in our head about it. There are other duties to be performed as and when possible. WE need not declare our new faith immediately to any one if we do not like. The study of the Quran is a must to understand Islam and it becomes necessary for us to keep on meeting the other muslims.
I am sorry to say that even in todays advanced world, one has to hide his/her faith from other people because of some kind of fear of repurcussions. Islam tells us that there is no compulsion in religion. But there are muslims who would kill any one who would change his religion from Islam to some other faith.
You can understand that we have to be careful. All is not well with Muslims in todays world. There are many mistakes too in their deeds. But that is not any fault of Islam.
So please go ahead and ask questions. We believe in origin of species and survival of the fittest. But we do not believe in the natural selection. So Muslims believe 2/3 of the theory of evolution. Happy reading!!!
------------- If any one is bad some one must suffer |
Posted By: Hayfa
Date Posted: 10 August 2008 at 4:07pm
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Hi Lizzil,
Welcome to the Forum, full of good people who are never dull and boring.
 And I COMPLETELY underderstand what you are saying� and the point you are at. I a remember those days before I did my Shahada.. and even for a couple of years after� can I du this right if I don�t �agree� or �understand� all of the aspects of Islam. Some things were confusing... people and their actions are confusing.. it can be hard to distinguish. It took me about four years to reach a certain level of understanding.. not only of certain aspects but the mindset as well. It had taken ne three years to tell family and friends. Less for fear of negative reaction as much as I am a very private person. Many people raised in Islam can explain the basics, give you a Quran etc. But often there are many aspects in which they are not qualified to explain. Neither am Some stuff I don�t completely understand but so be it.. its funny.. we all have things we focus on. They have books and books on the Quran and Hadiths� it is lifetime of learning. And unless we have days and days free we can only learn so much at one time. My explanation for the Shahada is this� I take karate.. and doing the Shahada is sigining up for classes.. you are not expected to be a black belt is skill (prayer performance, etc), knowledge (wisdom and inner connection, purity of the heart). This takes years of study and understanding. You progress at the level of your energy, abilities, etc. And once you get a black belt (decent level of understanding and practice of Islam) there is a lifetime of learning and growing. So you sign up and you begin. There is no prescribed time line and outward measure. The measure is in your actions and what is in your heart. Islam is about your relationship to Allah- Your Creator, to whom you will return to one day. How can you make that the central focus of your life? The Prophet Mohammed (SAAW) is our model. Another aspect to remember is that many people are not understanding of your position. WE are all shaped by our culture.. the good and not so good. Often this is a mindset. And t he best people to be around are people who are able to be encouraging but not pushy and those who have the ability to put themselves in your shoes as you struggle. For all people struggle on one level or another.. but to have helpful and thoughtful advice, it take people who can empathize, and this is not all reverts to say the least. Some are quite rigid�. It is person to person. Along in my journey of the past several years there were things I would read or hear about and they would cause me internal �angst,� things that made me uncomfortable or uncertain. The �reasoning� seemed quite foreign to me. It would take long conversations with knowledgeable people for me to understand the in and outs and the �whys.� Yes it is different then how I was raised. Not just in a western sense but by my particular family. I had to work to see the value and good. And this would be hard as because rather than use the Prophet (SAAWS) as the model, one looks at people who abuse a particular notion or system. But that reflects upon them as people. An excellent place to gain knowledge is through Zaytuna Institute. They put out excellent publications and have on-line classes. What I really like about them is that they talk and understand western people. Sheik Hamza Yusuf is a revert scholar who is education in Middle East and Where do you live? How did you come to learn about Islam? Ok enough by me.. Hayfa ------------- When you do things from your soul, you feel a river moving in you, a joy. Rumi |
Posted By: Lizzil
Date Posted: 10 August 2008 at 5:09pm
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I live in New York, but I am moving to Marrakech, Morocco in a few weeks to teach. My ex-boyfriend is from there and I have been there many times. I knew of Islam before, of course, but this is the first Islamic country I visited.
My ex told me things about Islam but it was very hard to learn from him because he did not follow any of the tenents of Islam except to fast during Ramadaan. He also drank and smoked and had an illicit relationship with me.
We were supposed to get married and when we dicussed children he talked about raising them Muslim. I started studying to understand the religion more so that I would feel secure to raise my children that way.
We have since broken up but I am continuing to learn. I very much like the calmness and peace of Islam and find it to be very caring. The more I learn the more interested I become.
I am still at the begining of my journey I think, but I like the path that is being revealed to me.
Thank you again for all the information. Your kindness is greatly appreciated.
Peace be upon you.
*Liz
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Posted By: Hayfa
Date Posted: 11 August 2008 at 12:57am
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I"ve always wanted to visit Morocco! Have almost gone once or twice.
Are you going to teach English? What have you most liked about Morocco?
I have been to Pakistan twice. Taught English in a village school there.. was quite a culture shock to say the least.
You know when I arrived at this certain "place" I am at now.. being in Islam was like floating in a warm ocean...so peaceful and loving..
------------- When you do things from your soul, you feel a river moving in you, a joy. Rumi |
Posted By: Chrysalis
Date Posted: 11 August 2008 at 10:49am
It is very important that you take this decision based solely on you own wishes and inclinations . . . not after influence by external (personal) factors . . . 'cz if its not because of the right reasons, your heart will not be 100% into Islam, and that will make you confused/unhappy. Just saying.
Is there anything else you wish to know about Islam? (what else do you find 'hard' to believe in?)
Apart from that, just a word of caution. Do not judge Islam/Muslims from what you see. Morrocco is a place where culture/traditions remain strong, so do not think that everything you see or hear is neccessarily Islamic.
And you're right about Islam bieng very calm, peaceful and caring. One can better appreciate that by bieng a woman, Islam is particularly generous/caring towards women. (I was about to say the 'wiser sex' rather than the 'weaker sex' heh heh) Its good to know there is Someone out there to take care of things that we tend to stress ourselves about, and be a 24hr support-line.
If I may ask, what religion (if any) did you belong to before this? Perhaps this may better help us clarify your questions.
Best of wishes and prayers. ------------- "O Lord, forgive me, my parents and Muslims in the Hereafter. O Lord, show mercy on them as they showed mercy to me when I was young." |
Lizzil wrote:Posted By: Lizzil
Date Posted: 11 August 2008 at 11:13am
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I assure you, it is not because of my ex that I continue my search into Islam. He did spur me towards this quest, but he is no longer the reason at all.
I was raised Catholic, but it never made sense to me, even as a child. I couldn't understand how we could be called children of God in the Bible, but that Jesus was God's son...and God. It confused me from the begining.
I strayed from religion thinking that they were all similarly flawed. But I did learn one thing from Christianity that I hold dear to this day and that is the Golden Rule. Do unto others as you would have done unto yourself. It was so simple and perfect to me to try to lead life this way, and I always have.
Now I find myself on the doorstep to Islam, finding new truthful and beautiful things that help guide my life. At the moment I try to study a few hours a day, just keep reading and learning. There is a change coming over my thought and I like it very much. (I would probably spend more time, but I'm struggling to pack and get ready to move in a few weeks!!!)
My first thought each day on waking is of Allah, something that once seemed impossible to me.
As for things I have trouble believing...most everything comes back to the science aspects of Islam. I'm begining to think, however, it is because they were explained to me in a very poor way initially. As I read more, by myself, they make more sense.
Other things I did not understand before, certain verses from Surah Nisa for example (#34) are coming into a clearer focus for me. I realize now that I have to discover this myself instead of letting someone force it upon me, or expalin it badly.
I must also confess, I struggle with the notion of hijab. I am unsure, at this point, if I could really completely cover myself at all times. I do not mean that I want to wear short skirts or scandalous tops...I just mean I can not imagine not wearing short sleeves or sandals....or going to the
beach completely covered. I must also admit that my family and friends would have a VERY strong reaction to my wearing hijab...and I am not sure if I am ready for this.
So...I am sure I will be posting questions in the next few days and weeks, but it's amazing how much I'm learning by reading here and on http://www.turntoislam.com - www.turntoislam.com It seems like my questions are being answered...some before I even knew to ask them.
Blessings and peace,
*Liz
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Posted By: Hayfa
Date Posted: 11 August 2008 at 1:46pm
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Salaams Liz,
It is true, find a few good web sites and it can be a BIG help.
Hijab, hijab.. such a big issue for women. Maybe as it is the public part vs the private/ internal part.
The first time I was in Pakistan discussing many things with a friend. And saying that I could not wear hijab... gave me a panic attack so to speak. And they said it is one part of Islam. It is not the be in and end all of Islam. Just one aspect.
Some women can go Shahada and next day wearing full hijb, some even niqab etc. Each of us struggles in different manners to imporve ourselves and be a righteous servant (another notion that was hard for me).
For me everything was a gradual transition.. first no shorts, then long sleeves then an underscarf.. then well full cover. And that is an advantage of being in Morocco.. you can dress more modestly and not "stand out."
It is not always easy to be a nonMuslim one day, do Shahada and the next day put on hijab and represent Islam to the world. May Allah reward those who can.
The Quran was revealed over a 2-+ time period.. so transitons will not be all at once.
Oh, and as far as sandles, I have ready different opinions and such.
You know, focus on the "bigger" aspects of Islam. It will be a challenge and a struggle.. but better to struggle than not at all. I have at times, beat myself up for not getting x or y down.. it is hard when you DO want to do better.
But Allah is most merciful. He is the Forgiver, He is the Patient. And as long as you are striving to live this life with Allah in your heart and mind.. Allah knows all intention.
For now, just work to dress more modestly. Its a step.
Have fun packing! Where will you be teaching and what will you be teaching? ------------- When you do things from your soul, you feel a river moving in you, a joy. Rumi |
Posted By: Hayfa
Date Posted: 11 August 2008 at 1:49pm
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oh, a quick warning... lol
Inshallah you do your Shahada.. some people may attempt ot "marry you off" soon afterwards.. be vary wary as there is a lot that goes into marriage.. as you may know. And yes marriage is recommended but we also need to be seure in our knowledge and such to a settled level so that we can a, find the appropriate partner b, be a good partner.
so smile and say "um inshallah." and change the subject... lol
------------- When you do things from your soul, you feel a river moving in you, a joy. Rumi |
Posted By: minuteman
Date Posted: 11 August 2008 at 10:40pm
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Yes, good advice if something is in pipeline. Should not go two important change at once. Maximum care has to be exercised about marriage in this season of change to Islam. May Allah be with all who do good and Love for all, hatred for none. ------------- If any one is bad some one must suffer |
Posted By: Chrysalis
Date Posted: 12 August 2008 at 5:14am
Since you're from a Catholic background, you'll realise that many aspects will not be alien to you , such as modesty in dressing, humility,etc.
Its perfectly natural and understandable for you to have reservations about the Hijab. I believe Hayfa gave very good insight . . . Don't let Hijab stop you from taking that crucial step. Its okay for you to take things slow, let them sink in, and understand. Even some Muslim-born women struggle with Hijab . . . you're yet a convert. Some adopt it earlier, in thier teens . . . some dont until thier 40s . . . Allah will judge us all based on our personal struggles and Jihad. Thats what this life on earth is all about. The 'struggle'.
The only way you can remain steadfast is by reading up, asking Qs and really arming yourself with Islamic knowledge . . . it will give you confidence in your purpose. Dont let the comments of any other person (muslim/nonmuslim) take you down. Especially when it comes to issues like marriage like Hayfa said . . . or Hijab (about wearing it or even if it be not wearing it.) Hijab is not just a piece of cloth that we wear on our head, its how we dress, act, speak, think etc.
You could experiment with it, in places you feel unobserved and unjudged. You could also, to make things easier for yourself, choose when to or when not to. For example if you do not wish to go public as yet, you can keep a low profile in front of your friends and practise in your free time. Make a gradual transition . . . first try and avoid too skimpy, move on to looser garments , gradually cover more skin etc. Remember, Hijab is not about presenting ourselves as unattractive or plain on purpose. . . it is about concealing our sexuality in Public - modesty and humility.
I dont know about you, but when I first started Hijab, I didnt make any tall commitements with myself, and wasnt sure. But when I faced a couple of strong reactions - that is what made me steadfast . . . because I realised that apparently some ppl just care about the physical image, dont want to associate themselves with a person who doesnt flaunt thier image. And I wanted to distance myself from that kind of ppl (among other reasons). I was able to filter out the superficial ppl.
As far as sandals . . . I dont see why that should be a problem? Are you talking about heels? well, as long as they dont create too much of a fuss/noise, and are not ostentatious. . . nothing wrong. Hijab is not to make a woman invisible, it is to prevent exhibitionism, flaunting sexuality etc.
As for the beach , I think its all the more reason to be covered! Sun-rays!(I dont like turning red as a lobster, and sunblock feels greasy/icky!) Anyway - like I said, take your time. But I have just as much fun on the beach fully clothed as I would in a swimsuit. You have to conceal your body from unrelated males . . . that means if you're on a secluded beach or inside water, who can tell? Wrap a sarong while you're outside . . . lots of ways to have fun, yet still maintain Hijab . . . just requires a little thinking and creativity!
Dont let that rush you tho! like I said, its natural to want time to let things sink in. ------------- "O Lord, forgive me, my parents and Muslims in the Hereafter. O Lord, show mercy on them as they showed mercy to me when I was young." |
Posted By: Lizzil
Date Posted: 12 August 2008 at 7:44am
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Thank you...it helps in reading other's opinions, especially about hijab. In general people tell me it is a goal that I am aiming for and not the first thing to consider which makes it easier for me, more gentle.
Regarding sandals, it says that a woman should covered except for her hands and her face. This makes me assume that sandals are out as they leave the foot bare. Am I right or wrong in this assumption?
Regarding marriage....well...I'm not ready. I had a broken engagement not too long ago and I think it will be some time before I consider marriage again. Now it is time to focus on myself and learn more about my own path. I am not yet ready to make concessions to have another person walking with me. I couldn't possibly, because I don't yet know where I'm going and it's not yet time to follow. Marriage will have to wait, though I hope, inshallah, it will be part of my life one day.
Don't forget, this is not the only big change in my life. I am also about to move to a foreign country! I have lived abroad before, in South Korea, but moving and transitions are difficult. I have so very much to deal with right now I can only take a deep breath and ask for Allah's guidance and strength to help me get through it all. And so far, it is working. :)
I really do feel strong and calm (which has NEVER been me) at the moment and I fully believe it comes from my study of Islam and opening my heart to Allah. I am in a very happy place.
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Posted By: Chrysalis
Date Posted: 13 August 2008 at 6:36am
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Alhamdulilah . . . good to hear that Islam is working for you :)
Regarding sandals . . .that again sis, boils down to individual interpretations and perceptions. What I've heard the majority of scholars say about sandals is that they should not be worn in such a way as to attract attention - that includes sexy high-heels, or loud clicking heels that make heads turn. Otherwise, most scholars do not object to open sandals. . . Infact I've read someplaces that the female dress should not reveal anything above the ankles. . . to me it implies that below the ankle i.e. foot is fine.
I'm sure there must be some out there with the opposing view. Its the same story with Hijab . . . some muslims insist it should be an all enveloping garment that hides the face,hands,feet. While others say that anything that does not hug the body/is lose and covers the sexually attractive parts such as bosom, thighs, behind, hair etc is ok.
I've seen some Muslimahs that even wear socks and gloves. . . However I personally find that unneccessary . . .but again, everyone has thier 'way' of applying rules. . . and I wont judge them.
So basically sis . . . the sandals, Niqaab (viel) are relatively flexible aspects, that a muslim can choose to (or not) apply. They are not a hard and fast tennent of Islam, and should not prevent a Believer to hesitate from following the fundamentals of Islam. Such matters are lower on the priority ladder, especially compared to the basic fundamentals, which should be given more priority i.e. believing in ONE God, Allah and His Prophets. Believing in Qur'an, following it, performing Prayers/Salaat, Fasting, Giving Zakat (obligatory charity), abstaining from Pork, Alcohol, and sex outside marriage . . . etc. ------------- "O Lord, forgive me, my parents and Muslims in the Hereafter. O Lord, show mercy on them as they showed mercy to me when I was young." |
Posted By: Friendship
Date Posted: 18 September 2008 at 2:12pm
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Assalamu alaikum.
Congratulations! But you have to be careful.
Faith means believing in its articles. Then the articles become incorporated in the Pillars of Islam. Abdullahi bin Umar bin Khattab said, "Every letter of the holy Qur 'an is drawing attention and calling mankind to believe that there is only One Allah i.e Law Giver. Every letter is drawing your attention to fear Allah and obey Him". There about 340,000 letters but you need only one to believe in Allah.
The second most important Pillar is the manner you pray i.e facing the Ka'aba during the allowed time to pray. The holy Prophet said, "Pray in the manner you see me pray". I do not know your contry. But in my country Nigeria, the majority of the Muslims do not pray in the manner the holy Prophet prayed, because they do not know. They do not evn measure the time of the prayers. They just guess. I have a written a book in English languge on the manner the holy Prophet prayed according to Hadith. I will send you the book when you make up your mind. If you can read Arabic then buy the Book Zadal Ma'ad by Jawzi. You msut learn the Arabic language to understand the Sunna. Do't rush to go on Pilgrimage. Wait until the Umma have a Khalifa. Friendship.
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Posted By: minuteman
Date Posted: 19 September 2008 at 7:08am
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There has been a discussion about Hijab. If Lizzel will wear Hijab, the friends and relatives will not like it and if did not wear it the God and the Muslims will not be happy. But there is always some way.
It reminded me of some youngman in oldtime Greece who wanted to enter the world affairs. His mother stopped him by saying:
My son if you will speak the truth then men will not like you. And if you will speak a lie then Gods will not like you. So better not enter the world.
The youngman was quite clever. He rebutted the argument by saying:
"Mother I will have no problem. If I will speak the truth then Gods will not be angry. And If I tell lies then men will not be angry."
Actually, it is the world we live in. People always interfere in the internal personal matters of others without reason, even in the harmless legal things. If any one grows a moustache, the muslim friends (class fellows) will inquire into it. If any one grew a beard they will equally be inquisitive. The less the people do like that, the better it could be for all. That means Live and Let Live. ------------- If any one is bad some one must suffer |
Posted By: Chrysalis
Date Posted: 20 September 2008 at 7:07am
Friendship, I would also urge you to be careful in what you say. I know you intention is to help the lady. . . . jazakallah for that.
The lady in question is on the 'verge' of things. . . .you cannot expect her to digest all that we thrust upon her. Also, the things you have mentioned, are second to 'belief', first let her come to terms with Islam, and let her be at peace with her belief before we start telling her how to pray, and measuring time b/w prayers, and how muslims in Nigeria dont do what they should. . . .
You said 'You must learn the Arabic language to learn Sunnah' ! please be careful what you say, she may presume that it is compulsory to know arabic, and this may discourage a person who has no intention of having to learn an entire language. (For the record: learning Arabic is not a prerequisite to Islam)
We should be using hikmah/wisdom. Also pl dont suggest controversial things such as 'Dont go to pilgrimage, wait until we have a Khalifa' !!!!! What if there is no Khalifa until generations passs???/ MUlsims should miss out on a Pillar of Islam???????
For the record: Having/Not Having a Caliphate/Khalifa does not in anyway effect the worship/ibaadat/actions of the Muslims today. Please focus on your individual actions. . . and that is not a 'pillar' of islam.
PS: please dont turn this thread into one debating controversies. ------------- "O Lord, forgive me, my parents and Muslims in the Hereafter. O Lord, show mercy on them as they showed mercy to me when I was young." |
Posted By: honeto
Date Posted: 04 October 2008 at 3:22pm
Lizzil,
welcome to the forum and hope you pass all the hurdles successfully in your journey toward Islam. I am sure you are aware that any big task or challenge has obsticles and difficulties, so does this journey. Be aware of imitations and keep firm and focus, after all its your body and soul who's going to reap the fruits of your hard work.
If you hear conflicting opininions, please ask as many people as you can, don't let any difficulty be the reason for shortfall.
May God Almighty guide those who seek His guidance, Ameen.
Hasan ------------- The friends of God will certainly have nothing to fear, nor will they be grieved. Al Quran 10:62 |
Posted By: Friendship
Date Posted: 04 October 2008 at 5:04pm
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Assalamu alaikum
Brother Chrysalis.
I am talking from my personal practical experience and not assumption. Islam is not a half way house, or a doctrine left at ones thinking. I am not saying that she must be an Arab, but that she must be able to read and understand the Sunna of the holy Prophet and this can be only if one understands th basic Arabic language. From my practical exprience Islam is in the hands of those not able to use their resources to buy books. I am not the one who said so. Virtually all Islamic scholars emphasized that. If Taqlid is not permissible and is blameworthy how can one get himself out of it. If in your place people are praying in the manner prayed by the holy Prophet then you are safe. I was following Imams blindly not even knowing the correct time of prayers and what to read during the 5 daily prayers. Are you saying that if one performs Ibadat not the way explained by the holy Prophet it will be accepted. I think I advised her to take her time and know the implications and not just to accept it and find herself in hell fire. In 1983, I performed my pilgrimage but later to find out that the Arafat was supposed to be on saturday and not on friday! The Saudi performed the Id this year before the moon appeared by conjunction. What will you say about this? controversies have already being settled. If you have books in English language or in her language describing the Sunna especially in prayers well that is good for her. For example she does not Ibn Ishaq Arabic vrsion, if she can get Alfred Guillaumes Translation of the life of the holy Prophet. Definitely Khalifate is in the 1st pillar of Islam, because it is leadership! Ignorance is not allowed in Islam and there is no excuse. Please get your facts correct. Read! Read! Read! Let us remember this important message. Let us remember that one is supposed to study for 40 years according to the earlier scholars before one starts making Fatwa!
friendship.
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Posted By: seekshidayath
Date Posted: 04 October 2008 at 11:14pm
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Hi Lizzil, You have got enough and best respones. I can i just say, that at a point when you feel that Islam is a right religion, go for it immediately. Its not necessary that we know all 100 %
I applaud your intention of studying Islam. May Allah swt help you.
------------- Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: �All the descendants of Adam are sinners, and the best of sinners are those who repent." |
Posted By: honeto
Date Posted: 05 October 2008 at 10:31am
Friendship,
with all respect I have to say this, that not all Muslims who are Arabs are good practicing Muslims because they understand the language. I know of many Arab Muslims who despite having advantage of the language are far away from the practice of the deen. While I have seen those Muslims who do not know the Arabic language, yet their faith and pratice of deen is far exceeding then anyone.
I agree that its better to learn and know the language of the Quran, it will be better. But there are many of us who don't know Arabic, yet we understand what our belief is, what it is that makes our Creator be pleased with us.
Islam is a religion of truth, common sense, thoughtfulness, knowledge, logic, and reasoning.
May God help us all to achieve the most from Islam.
Hasan
------------- The friends of God will certainly have nothing to fear, nor will they be grieved. Al Quran 10:62 |
Posted By: Friendship
Date Posted: 05 October 2008 at 11:54am
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Brother Honeto.
Please understand me that I am not saying that one has to learn Arabic if he has the correct texts in any language. I learnt Arabic in 1960-1964 and I went to University to study medicine. So I forgot about the language. but the moment I talk about islam I am looked upon as a gentile and secondary citizen here. So I was forced to improve on my Arabic language. So If in you country you do not have such attitude, good for you. But to be able to teach and explain the Sunna and not the sciences in the Qur'an (like Medicine etc) you are better off in Arabic. Personally, I am against the attitude of some Muslims in unncessary looking for details, but one has to arm himself. I am a preacher and I know what it is to face semi-educated people who want to be heard of and not like the truth to be told. For example can you understand moon phase if not in English? But the moment you begin to explain to them they ask which book did you read in Arabic?
Friendship.
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Posted By: Chrysalis
Date Posted: 07 October 2008 at 7:19am
Knowing arabic, is an added bonus, something extra - no doubt a valuable asset. However it is not 'must' (i.e compuslory) like u stated in your previous post. Pl choose your words wisely.
What I will say about this is, if problems occur such as the one you faced, or in sighting of the moon etc the common man is not to be blamed, because it was a 'mistake' an accident, an error. That too on behalf of an institution i.e. government, Majlis, ulema etc - who are dealing with such issues on behalf of the ummah. So Allah will not hold the individual accountable. Did you know for example, if an Imam accidently misses out a Rakat in prayer - the Jamaat is not held accountable? And thier prayer is accepted? So if problems like that happen . . .the common man is not the one who is held accountable by God.
The 5 pillars of Islam are (in that order):
1. Tauheed i.e. Belief in Oneness of Allah (a.k.a shahadah)
2. Salat (5 daily prayer)
3. Zakat (compulsory charity based on amount of wealth)
4. Saum (i.e. Fasting during ramadhan)
5. Hajj (i.e Pilgrimage)
Im sorry if you misunderstood me, but I dont think I gave a fatwa (??) of any sort. True about the reading and gaining knowledge part - we all should be doing that, jazakallah for the reminder.
Regards, ------------- "O Lord, forgive me, my parents and Muslims in the Hereafter. O Lord, show mercy on them as they showed mercy to me when I was young." |
Posted By: Saladin
Date Posted: 07 October 2008 at 9:20am
I believe in Evolution, just, not exactly the way its thought to be. It would make more sense if we start to look at Evolution, as the way God created the Universe and everything in it. However, I'm not inclined to think that Man evolved from primates and not much has been established beyond doubt. Time will reveal the facts and God knows best. ------------- 'Trust everyone but not the devil in them' |
Posted By: honeto
Date Posted: 07 October 2008 at 2:13pm
Lizzil,
I wanted to address one of the points you mentioned, the evolution. You said, " Muslims do not believe in evolution"
I believe that to be incorreect. Of cousre we all may have differnt understanding, knowledge and views about it. Also how evolution is discribed. It is true that Christians often are given hard choices of either believe in evolution or Christianity. Islam does not put you in that position for no other reason than that Islam is a belief from the all knowing.
It may be that evolution itself may have not be described good. That good old example of man evolving in stages from an ape is just a theory.
My question to that was, if an ape evolved in a man what is the ape still around, he is still an ape?
On the other hand, as we all are of various colors and races, while God has told us in the Quran and in scriptures before that we are all children of one man, Adam. That's the type of evolution we are talking about, and for man of thinking may lead into the positive evolution belief that goes with Islam.
21:30 ARE, THEN, they who are bent on denying the truth not aware that the heavens and the earth were [once] one single entity, which We then parted asunder? and [that] We made out of water every living thing? Will they not, then, [begin to] believe?
These verses, and a breif obervation of what is around us will sum up for you, as it does for me, not just the begining of life and evolution but also the creation of our earth and beyond. Remember, we Muslims are also humans, we are also bound to limitations, sometimes natural, sometimes our own created barears such as ignorance, ego, or simply lack of understanding or knowledge. For that the best will be to hear as many explain their views, so you have a better chance to know more, and a greater reward from Allah, who is happeir with those who seek knowledge. And seek knowledge to please Allah, even further rewards.
Again, May God Almighty help us all to know Him and His word, the Quran.
Hasan ------------- The friends of God will certainly have nothing to fear, nor will they be grieved. Al Quran 10:62 |
Posted By: Gulliver
Date Posted: 07 October 2008 at 3:52pm
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When you think how we evolve from conception. All the stages of development. I don't see it a far stretch of the imagination to think/believe that the race evolved from what might seem a 'lesser' form of life. The angels are asked to prostrate to what might seem a lesser form of life - made of clay. Life is life and all life is sacred. I have often thought that John 1 is a good indicator of a 'big bang' type scenario. God says, "Be" and life explodes into all it's myriad expressions and forms and is held in existence by the word 'Be'. Same in this verse you quote in Qu'ran Hasan:
"[once] one single entity, which We then parted asunder."
BANG !!! ;-)
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Posted By: Friendship
Date Posted: 08 October 2008 at 5:00pm
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Assalamu alaikum.
Lizzil. I hope this will satisfy your curiosity.
CREATION OF MANKIND AND HIS ACCOUNTABILITY.
Man was created from soil according to the Scriptures. The Holy Qur�ān, the last revealed Scripture to stand the taste and test of man and his achievements explained the process further in seven chapters of the Holy Qur'ān covering the following stages;- (1) The stage of Turāb (earth or dust) was explained in Holy Qur�ān, chapter 3:59. (2) Ţīn. This was the stage in which Allah chose clay and mixed it with water explained in Holy Qur�ān, chapter 32:7. (3) Ţīn-i-lāzib. This was the stage in which the clay was left to settle becoming sticky explained in Holy Qur�ān chapter 37:11 (4) (5) Salsāl-im-min (6) Bashar. This was the last stage in which Allah breathed into us His spirit. (7) Human Reproductive stage. This was explained in Holy Qur�ān, chapter 22:5. After creating mankind from the dried clay Allāh breathed into us His Qualities of wisdom and reasoning as part of His Own. Allāh chose clay soil because it can be moulded, is porous, can absorb water and can emit sound after drying. Man therefore has a unique position in the Sight of Allāh to which he will be called to account. He was created not out of the blues, but as claimed by Allah in Holy Qur�ān, chapter 95:4 in �best symmetry or moulds�. The Scriptures were silent on the quantity and the other characteristics of the water used in mixing the clay. However, today we knew that water contains hydrogen and oxygen. Allah says in Holy Qur�ān, 21:30, �And We made from water every living thing. Will they not then believe?� The sperm and the ova could stand for water since no reproduction can take place in their absence. Allah described the sperm in Holy Qur�ān, chapter 86:6-7 �He is created from a water gushing forth proceeding from between the backbone and the ribs�. He did not describe the ova as a separate entity, but described it in the stage of fertilization in Holy Qur�ān, chapter 23:13, �Thereafter We made him (the offspring of Adam) as a Nutfah (mixed drops of the male and female sexual discharge and lodged it) in a safe lodging (womb of the woman)�. The mate of Adam was created from a portion of his rib and not from another extract of clay. |
Posted By: Gulliver
Date Posted: 08 October 2008 at 5:08pm
| Chrys. Are you a brother or a sister ? Sorry for going off track for a mo. I see you being referred to as 'brother'. I thought you were a 'sister'. :-) |
Posted By: Saladin
Date Posted: 09 October 2008 at 9:20am
How exactly God brought about Man's existence in Earth cannot be scientifically explained (ie. from a religious angle) as yet but we Muslims dont believe that the first man "Adam" was in anyway inferior to what we are now. He could only have been biologically and intellectually superior to
us. ------------- 'Trust everyone but not the devil in them' |
Posted By: Gulliver
Date Posted: 09 October 2008 at 9:59am
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So if he were biologically and intellectually superior to us - he was in a superior position of being able to 'free'ly choose to obey or disobey God ?
Why has the race de volved ?
I think what I was really saying Saladin was more about all life being sacred. Not so much that Adam was less than we now are - that we evolved from amoeba or whatever.
Though in the womb we evolve from a few cells and go through stages of development that at times resemble other creatures during embryological development.
:-)
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Posted By: Saladin
Date Posted: 10 October 2008 at 2:35am
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I agree that all life forms are sacred but my point was that, if Adam was a transitional form, he was in no position to reason what is right or wrong and that could not have been the scenario. I believe Adam was the Father of our species "Homo Sapiens"- with a highly developed brain.
About Adam possibly being superior to us, is just my speculation going by 'The Law of Entropy'. ------------- 'Trust everyone but not the devil in them' |
Posted By: Friendship
Date Posted: 10 October 2008 at 3:05am
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Assalamu alaikum.
Saladin.
I cannot remember in any of the scriptures where Allah said that Adam is superior to all mankind. Allah talked of TAFDIILI (bestowment of something at His Exclusive Right to someone). What Allah told us in the Scriptures was He Breathed into us His Characteritics and in Qur'an 16:78 He says, "And Allah has brought you out from the wombs of your mothers while you know nothing. And He gave you hearing, sight and hearts thay you might give thanks (follow his Ordinances and Shari'a). I have forgotten that Law of Entrophy in Physics. Do not involve yourself in speculations or theories, although it is allowed only if it could increase your faith. Such issues should b discussed only with those versed in that field of study. That was the teaching of Muhammad, Moses or Jesus.
Friendship
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Posted By: Gulliver
Date Posted: 10 October 2008 at 4:50am
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Hello Friendship :-)
What are the characteristics of God that were breathed in us ?
Slightly off topic. Is God referred to as He in the Qu'ran ? If God is not referred to by the masculine pronoun - why is God always referred to as 'He' ? Just wondering about this if it's true. |
Posted By: Friendship
Date Posted: 10 October 2008 at 2:14pm
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Assalamu alaikum.
Brother Gulliver.
Allah is in Masculine and not feminine tense. We use capital 'He' and not 'he' to donate Allah's Characteristics, and Works etc in the Qur'an. We use also I and We, but not they. We use also Whom. This is dictated by Arabic grammar and inflexion as a sign of respect.
There are many characteristics. The most important is Justice and Just. He said, "He hates injustice and does not allow it on mankind. He is Good and does not accept anything but that which is good". Although the Muslim scholars gave 99 such characteristics they are more than that.
Friendship.
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Posted By: Chrysalis
Date Posted: 11 October 2008 at 3:07am
Hello there Gulliver.
Allah/God is Unique , He does have the same attributes as us mortals, hence transcends the limitations of gender. Which is why it is wrong and perhaps even sinful to suggest that Allah is masciline or feminine.
According to Yusuf Estes, the word 'Allah' describes Him perfectly - because it has no gender connotations. The arabic word Allah, does not connotate any gender (male or female), the word is also always singular, and never plural.
This basically an issue of translation. You have to understand that Arabic is a very unique language, especially when it comes to grammar etc. Thus, english translations do not do justice to the actual meaning when comprehended in English. For example, many times . . .there is not a proper word to translate something from Arabic into English.
According to Zakir Naik; "The Arabic word �Allah� has no gender. The Arabic grammar has only two genders, male and female and male gender is of two types:
1.Masculine Haqeeqi i.e. Real, which is used to denote the masculine gender in humans, animals.
2. Masculine Majazi i.e. Unreal, wherein it is used as Masculine but in reality it is not so e.g. (Angels) Malak, Layl (Night), Bab (door). The word Allah (swt), too falls in the second category i.e. Masculine Majazi. " http://www.islamicvoice.com/april.2003/religion.htm - http://www.islamicvoice.com/april.2003/religion.htm
We use the word 'He' , because there is no other word that may perhaps explain the Arabic version better, that does not in anyway imply that Allah is nauzubillah a man, or masculine in nature. Allah is beyond such human concepts we have of gender. Masculinity or Feminity are not amongst the attributes of Allah.
In lots of languages, many things have masculine/feminine genders, why is for example a glass in the Urdu language referred to as a masculine gender, and a plate is in the feminine gender? In french, why is a castle referred to as 'he' , while a house is reffered to as a 'she'?
PS: To answer your previous question, Chrysalis is a 'she' :p
------------- "O Lord, forgive me, my parents and Muslims in the Hereafter. O Lord, show mercy on them as they showed mercy to me when I was young." |
Posted By: Gulliver
Date Posted: 11 October 2008 at 4:17am
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Thank you Chrys. I think Jesus talks about 'Father' to give a sense of the closeness of God to each of us.
In OT God is compared to a mother hen with her chicks. I do wonder about God as seeminly 'only male,' and all the implications of that in any religion. Some people may have very real reasons for being unable to relate to God as 'male'. Poor parental role models or within church organisations - very poor male role models, who are supposed to be the 'male' God's 'representatives'. You get those across the board too. I've known quite a few people in that kind of situation - where they cannot relate to a 'male' God for a variety of reasons, having suffered at the hands of certain individuals, and are left in limbo not feeling they can relate to God at all - especially in times of great need, when a belief and ablitity to relate to God would be of real help to them.
It's an awful situation and very tragic. I think it's the same for women too perhaps. That they maybe felt they had to need to relate to a 'man' God - when often they would rather have wanted to relate to the 'feminine' of God. If you know what I mean. It's all bout balance I suppose.
God bless :-)
I love your little budgie. When I was younger - one of my bros and I would bring in all the stray animals from around and about and take care of 'em. Was like a menagerie. Drove our mother nuts. One time we had sixty budiges in a big cage thing made from an old wardrobe. Started off catching one little green budgie like yours in the street. It must have escaped from somewhere. Would not have lasted long in our climate. One became sixty. Now think about that one ;-) How was that for an immaculate conception miracle. LOL
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Posted By: Chrysalis
Date Posted: 12 October 2008 at 4:01am
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In Islam, there is a similar parable about Allah. In a hadith, it is stated that Allah loves His people more than 70 mothers combined. . . .imagine that! Its just an example ofcourse, the number '7' is often used to stress upon quantity in arabic. . .so one should take it accordingly. ------------- "O Lord, forgive me, my parents and Muslims in the Hereafter. O Lord, show mercy on them as they showed mercy to me when I was young." |
Posted By: Chrysalis
Date Posted: 12 October 2008 at 4:04am
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In Islam, there is a similar parable about Allah. In a hadith, it is stated that Allah loves His people more than 70 mothers combined. . . .imagine that! Its just an example ofcourse, the number '7' is often used to stress upon quantity in arabic. . .so one should take it accordingly.
What budgie r u talking about? The one in my Avatar? lol. Thats not my 'budgie', it is one of Islamicity's, I'm just using it. I liked it
. Oh, and its A Yellow-Headed Amazon Parrot . . . :p (thot i'd share) I like parrots. . . 60 for a budgie is a huge accomplishment. I didnt know they could grow up to be that old! wow! ------------- "O Lord, forgive me, my parents and Muslims in the Hereafter. O Lord, show mercy on them as they showed mercy to me when I was young." |