"And those who obey their Lord and establish the Salat (prayers), and conduct their affairs by mutual consultation…” [Qur'an, 42: 38] The essence of democracy is the representation of the members of a political or social unit in managing its affairs. Essentially, a simple majority, by head count of those who participate in the process, … Continue reading Islamic Vision of Democracy
Author: maijazi
Respect for Life
It is not about a person or many. It's about respect for life under every skin. The Truth of the Qur'an is evidenced everyday: “He who slays a soul……shall be as if he had slain all mankind; and he who saves a life shall be as if he had given life to all mankind…”.[Qur’an; 5: … Continue reading Respect for Life
The Power Behind Change
“…And were it not that Allah repelled one group of people by means of another, the earth would be overlaid with mischief. But Gracious is Allah to the people of the world.” [Qur’an, 2: 251] We live in a dynamic world where the conditions and the circumstances surrounding us constantly change. While this is a … Continue reading The Power Behind Change
Salat Times
“...The salat is enjoined upon the believers at appointed times.” [Q, 4: 103] The Salat – five daily obligatory prayers – is the most momentous engagement of a Muslim’s daily life when a devotee turns exclusively toward his Creator to refresh his bond with Him and recommit his loyalty. Each salat must be offered at … Continue reading Salat Times
Salat-ul Eid without Congregation!
The issue is not the venue, whether the salat is done at home, or in an open field, or in a Masjid. It is about the requirement of congregation or a large communal gathering. If a congregation is not possible, what are the options? Sometimes a sense of sadness about missing something of significance is … Continue reading Salat-ul Eid without Congregation!
Amount of Sadaqa-tul Fitr
Based on the Hadith (Abu Dawood), the Shari’a has established the amount of Sadaqa-tul Fitr (fitra) as one half of a Sa'a of wheat per person in the family (regardless of age), which is equivalent to 3.85lbs/person (one Sa’a = 7.7 lbs). The current price of wheat in Massachusetts is $2.25/lb. Thus, the exact fitra amount this year is (3.85x2.25 =) $8.66, rounded to $9 per person. This is the threshold that must be communicated transparently in public announcements without … Continue reading Amount of Sadaqa-tul Fitr
Echoing Ramadan in Isolation
“…Had We willed, We could have fixed them in their places, making them powerless to go forward or backward.” [Qur’an, 36: 67] This year the pandemic circumstances surrounding Ramadan have been very difficult and emotionally draining. Ramadan is almost over, leaving behind lasting memories of something so special celebrated in vacuum. There were no Friday congregational … Continue reading Echoing Ramadan in Isolation
Quest for Knowledge: A must in Islam
“…..and say O my Lord, increase my knowledge.” [Qur’an, 20: 114] Knowledge is power, a wealth that only grows, and a source of honor of the highest order. It makes you what you ultimately become and distinguishes you as a sophisticated person of conscience enlightened with values, perspective, mission, direction, and awareness of the environment. … Continue reading Quest for Knowledge: A must in Islam
Islam and the Society
“And do not create mischief in the earth after it has been set in order…” [Qur’an, 7: 56] The society is paramount in Islam. The underlying theme of all Islamic directives, pursuits, and institutions, whether social, economic, political, or otherwise, is the society and its fitness. This notion is consistent with what Allah SWT says … Continue reading Islam and the Society
Sins and Forgiveness in Islam
The center of gravity of Islam’s ideology and apex of its creed is the Sovereignty of Allah swt in His existence, attributes, and authority. The Creator and Master of the universe introduces Himself: “Highly blessed is He, Who has sent down Al’Furqan (Qur’an) to His servant (Prophet Muhammad) so that it may be a warner … Continue reading Sins and Forgiveness in Islam
