ummtaalib

Advice from Khadeejah (Jacklynn) Assalamo aleikum (Peace be upon you) This is the greeting and salutation that Muslims give to each other. It is also the true blessing of Islam. The peace that comes from choosing the right path in life is incomparable! No one can tell you if you have found the right path - you will know it for yourself when you discover the inner calmness of your soul, the joy that even the difficulties cannot extinguish, and the sureness of feeling that you are home... That you have found a WAY OF LIFE - not just a religion! Al hamdolellah! (Thanks to God!) Islam is not something that you just gulp down in one swallow. It is a lifetime of daily meals to be enjoyed, savored, tasted, and digested. If you eat too fast and try to take it all in one huge bite, you will get indigestion and probably it will come right back up again and make you sick so you don't want to try another taste. If you eat too slowly and in tiny portions, you will always feel hungry and never be satisfied and if someone comes along offering you sweets and junk food (el shaitan does this) you will perhaps be tempted by that, so you won't feel like eating any more of the good meal. But if you have a well-balanced meal (studying the Holy Writings, association with fellow believers, putting into practice what you learn) you will feel satisfied and healthy and in peak condition of life. And think about it... if someone who loved you made a meal especially for you, wouldn't that make you feel surrounded by their love? Wouldn't you be anxious to tell everyone you know how well you were treated and how much you enjoyed the food? They would probably envy you and wish that they could also have a meal such as this. Allah loves us and has prepared spiritual food especially for us, his creation, in order for us to be healthy and happy and to know that we are loved. That food of course consists of all the Holy Writings available to us. When the opportunity arises, we can let others know how good our food is and how much our Creator loves us, so that they might see our healthy souls and want what we have. This is human nature... wanting what we don't have. So take things moderately, one bite at a time. Some foods take getting accustomed to, just like when we were kids and were told to eat our vegetables... as we grew up, we knew they were good for us, so we ate them as part of our meal even if they were not our favourite food. So, when you come across a "vegetable" in Islam that you find hard to swallow, just take a small nibble and leave it at the side of your plate until the next meal, or the one after that. Eventually you will grow up enough to realize that ALL "foods" in the spiritual meal are good for you and need to be partaken of if we want to stay healthy. As an example, imagine hijab as one of these "vegetables" that we might either love from the start or as something that we will only partake of after growing up and realizing that it is good for our spritual health. May Allah grant us all the wisdom and good spritual health we need to stay on the straight path. Ameen. Fee amanallah Khadeejah (Jacklynn) Written July 21 1998

Advice to new Muslimas by Judi Muhammad, MA, LLP, PhD Candidate; Vice President/ Clinical Director Islamic Health & Human Services, Detroit, MI AsSalaamuAlaykum (Peace be upon you) It feels like I have been Muslim all of my life. In actuality, I probably was - underneath. But, for most of my life (50 years) I was Christian. I was raised Catholic and converted to a fundamental Christian religion, The Salvation Army, in my 30s and remained there until Allah (SWT) rescued me at age 50. AlHamdullillah!! For many years I taught psychology and philosophy in college. In that teaching, and in my own education, I came to believe many concepts and philosophies things that did not fit with my religion. But, I accepted that there would be differences and that was OK. One of the things I knew was that while the Christian religion taught that I was (1) born in the image of God (on one hand) and (2) born in sin (on the other) - both were not possible. The first thing I heard about Islam was that we are born good. In succeeding years, fitrah has become a favorite topic of my reading. All of my reading has proven that what I always believed in my heart was true - that man is born good and his propensity is to live within the Will of Allah. I spent the first 8 months in Islam single - and when I did marry I was truly blessed with a good Muslim husband. I learned more in the first 1 month of my marriage to him than I had in the 8 months I tried to learn on my own. Always, however, my husband told me that, "Islam is a process. You are responsible for what you learn as you learn it. Worry about the ‘big' things - not the little things." Some of the most important things I have learned are: That I was always Muslim in my heart - that not all practice Islam the same but anyone who calls themselves "Muslim" is treated by me as Muslim - that Sisters make WONDERFUL friends ( too bad I waited so late in my life to learn that) - that being obedient to my husband has more benefits than I could have ever imagined - that women are more respected in Islam than anyone who is not a Muslimah would possibly imagine - and that the "Peace that passeth all understanding" is not a Christian reward - it is an Islamic reality. The most important advice I can give a new Muslimah is: Allow Allah to chose your husband - make Istikharah and trust that you will learn the truth from it Do not worry about changing those around you - worry about changing yourself , into the best Muslim you can be - Allah will take care of the rest Search for legitimate Scholars - not everyone knows enough to teach you the truth When you marry, trust your husband and look to him to teach you Islam - it is his job Enjoy obedience to your husband - it will bring rewards in heaven but also on earth!! Become friends with Sisters who are like you want to become. May Allah bless you and make your Islamic journey as peaceful as mine. Written by Judi Muhammad August 3, 1998

Advice For New Muslims by Mona Given that I have been having major problems with my parents regarding my reversion, the following advice is particularly suitable for other new Muslims having problems with their non-Muslim family members: (1) It is very helpful and comforting to have a few Muslim friends nearby in whom you can confide, ask questions of, and spend time with during the formative and often tumultuous initial period as a new Muslim. Born Muslims are generally honored and pleased to help you improve your faith by showing you the details that help you become a better Muslim. (2) Before you decide to announce your reversion to loved ones who are non-Muslim, make sure you are ready for their response, whether it is pleasant or horrible. Being ready means many things: understanding the basics of practicing your faith, understanding the reasons behind actions demanded of you by Islam, and being able to reconcile unfortunate world events that are attributed to Muslims with your own understanding of Islam and its inherent goodness, logic, and beauty. (3) As hypocritical as it may be, many open-minded people cease to be open-minded when difficult issues such as religious conversion "hit home." People who are ordinarily rational, educated, and worldly unfortunately can swing 180 degrees when a person they love converts to a religion they do not appreciate or understand. It may be in your best interest, and in theirs, to not discuss your reversion to Islam until a year or two has passed and you feel comfortable in your faith. At that point, it would be obvious to them that Islam has not made you a worse or lesser person, and has in fact (hopefully!) noticeably improved you! (4) Most importantly, remember that the best teaching is by example. If you want to help others overcome the stereotypes bound to Islam and lessen discrimination against muslims, be a model muslim! Remember to be tolerant, patient, giving, helpful, and peaceful with those around you, be they muslim or not. Be open to questions regarding your new faith, but do not feel compelled to answer questions to which you do not (yet) know the answers. Get involved in your ummah, mind your prayer, and with time, everything will become easier for you. Written by Mona August 5, 1998

At a time when Islam is faced with hostile media coverage particularly where the status of women in Islam is concerned, it may be quite surprising to learn that Islam is the fastest growing religion in the world, and even more ironic to discover that the majority of converts to Islam are WOMEN . The status of women in society is neither a new issue, nor is it a fully settled one. And where Islam is mentioned, for many the term 'Muslim Women' prompts images of exhausted mothers chained to the stove, 'victims' suppressed in a life of indoctrination, frantic to be westernized and so on. Others will go to great lengths to explain how the hijaab is an obstacle, clouding the mind, and comment that female converts are either brainwashed, stupid or traitors to their sex. I reject such accusations and pose to them the following question: why is it that so many women who have been born and brought in the so called 'civilized' societies of Europe and America are willing to reject their 'liberty' and 'independence' to embrace a religion that supposedly oppresses them and is widely assumed to be prejudicial to them? As a Christian convert to Islam, I can only present my personal experience and reasons for rejecting the 'freedom' that women claim to have in this society in favour of the only Religion that truly liberates women by giving us a status and position, which is completely unique when compared with that of our non-Muslim counterparts. Before coming to Islam, I had strong feminist tendencies and recognized that where a woman was concerned, a lot of shuffling around had been going on, yet without being able to pin her on the social map. The problem was ongoing: new 'women's issues' being raised without the previous ones being satisfactorily resolved. Like the many women who shared my background, I would accuse Islam of being a sexist religion, discriminating, oppressing and giving men the greater privileges. All of this, coming from a person who did not even know Islam, one who had been blinded due to ignorance and had accepted this deliberately distorted definition of Islam. However, despite my criticisms of Islam, inwardly, I wasn't satisfied with my own status as a woman in this society. It seemed to me that society would define such terms as 'liberty' and 'freedom' and then these definitions were accepted by women without us even attempting to question or challenge them. There was clearly a great contradiction between what women were told in theory and what actually happened in practice. The more I pondered, the greater emptiness I felt within. I was slowly beginning to reach a stage where my dissatisfaction with my status as a women in this society, was really a reflection of my greater dissatisfaction with society itself. Everything seemed to be degenerating backwards, despite the claims that the 1990's was going to be the decade of success and prosperity. Something vital seemed to be missing from my life and nothing would fill this vacuum. Being a Christian did not do anything for me, and I began to question the validity of only remembering God one day a week - Sundays! As with many other Christians too, I had become disillusioned with the hypocrisy of the Church and was becoming increasingly unhappy with the concept of Trinity and the deification of Jesus. Eventually, I began to look into Islam. At first, I was only interested in looking at those issues, which specifically dealt with women. I was surprised. What I read and learned, taught me a lot about myself as a woman, and also about where the real oppression of a woman lies: in every other system and way of life outside of Islam. Muslim women have been given their rights in every aspect of the religion with clear definitions of their role in society - as had men - with no injustice against either of them. As Allah says: «"Whoever does deeds of righteousness, be they male or female, and have faith, they will enter paradise and not the least injustice will be done to them"» [Nisaa 4:124] So having amended my misconceptions about the true status of women in Islam, I was now looking further. I wanted to find that thing which was going to fill the vacuum in my life. My attention was drawn towards the beliefs and practices of Islam. It was only through establishing the fundamentals that I would understand where to turn and what to prioritize. These are often the areas, which receive little attention or controversy in society, and when studying the Islamic Creed, it becomes clear why this is the case: such concise, faultless and wholly comprehensive details cannot be found elsewhere. source

Allah, The Most Exalted says: "O you who believe! Endure and be more patient..". (Qur’an-3:200) The Noble Messenger of Allah(peace be upon him) is reported to have said: "How wonderful is the case of a believer; there is good for him in everything and this applies only to a believer. If prosperity attends him, he expresses gratitude to Allah and that is good for him; and if adversity befalls him, he endures it patiently and that is better for him". (Hadith: Muslim) EISLAM

BISMILLAH HIRRAHMÃ NIRRAHEEM Night Of Barãt A summary of the booklet by Shaykhul Hadith ML. Fazlur Rahman (M.Z.) South Africa. Allah Ta‟ãla has presented His bondsmen with some special occasions with the golden opportunity of earning the mercy and forgiveness of Allah. Explicit examples of these occasions are the month of Ramadhãn and Laylatul Qadr. So is the fifteenth of Shabãn. Several Ahãdith extol the merits of this occasion. Amongst them is the fact that countless people are forgiven by Allah Ta‟ãla during this blessed night. It is due to this reason that it is called „The Night of Barãt‟. However, it should be borne in mind that a vast majority of narration's describing the benefits and virtues of this night are in fact quite weak. The foundations of the Shar‟iah are the Qur‟ãn, the Sunnah and the lives of the Sahãbah (R.A.). Non of the narration‟s regarding the excellences of this night are free from criticism and comment by the scholars of Hadith. Shaikh Yusuf Binouri ® says: “I have not come across any Sahih, Marfoo or Musnad Hadith regarding the excellence of this night.” [Ma‟ãrifus Sunnan, Vol. 5 Pg. 419]. The Muhaddith, Ibn Dihya, has also agreed that neither has anything authentic been narrated regarding the fifteenth night of Shabãn nor has any specific Salãh been narrated for this night via reliable narrators. [Faydhul-Qadeer-Sharhul Jãmius Sagheer Vol. 2 Pg. 317]. SOME VIRTUES OF THIS NIGHT One on the other hand can not completely reject the virtues of this night. Whilst even Allama Ibn Taymiyyah, a scholar notorious for refuting such things, also accepts the virtue of the night of Barãt, he says: “So many Ahãdith and reports exists regarding the excellence of the fifteenth night of Shabãn that one is compelled to accept that this night possesses some virtue.” Shaikh Abdur Rahman Mubarakpuri writes in the commentary of Tirmizi: “The sheer number of Ahãdith regarding this night serve as a proof against those who refute the excellence of this night.” [Tuhfatul-Ahwazi Vol. 2 Pg. 53]. The special virtues of the night of Barãt are: 1. Contrary to other nights wherein Allah descends to the lowest Heaven to bestow His special blessings during the last third of the night, on the night of Barãt the special rain of mercy and forgiveness from Allah Ta‟ãla begins to shower down right up till dawn. 2. The sins of countless people are pardoned. [Hãfiz Zayud-deen Iraqi, Faydhul Qadeer, Vol. 2 Pg. 317]. It should be remembered that while the narrations regarding the night of Barãt are weak, the narrations regarding Allah Ta‟ãla‟s descending to the nearest Heaven during the last third of every night are totally correct. VISITING THE GRAVESIDE ON THE NIGHT OF BARÃT Rasulullah‟s (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) awakening during any night and visiting the graveyards is recorded in some Ahãdith. However, visiting of the graveyard is not a special characteristic of this night in particular. It is proven from another authentic narration that Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) used to visit the graveyard during the last portion of every night. There is no specific reference in the Ahãdith to the night of Barãt or any other night. NO SPECIFIC PRESCRIBED SALÃH RESERVED FOR THE NIGHT OF BARÃT Allama Anwar Shah Kashmiri ® has written regarding the matter that the significance of the night of Barãt is proven. There is however, no proof for those weak and unacceptable narrations mentioned in certain books. [Al‟arfus-Shazi Pg. 156]. Allama Yusuf Binouri ® writes in Ma‟ãrifus Sunan that Abu Talib Makki recorded these narrations in his book Qut-ul-Quloob. Imãm Ghazali, following Abu Talib Makki, did the same and Shaikh Abdul Qadir Jilani has followed them in his book Ghunyat-ut-Talibeen. They mention a narration of Ali (R.A.) that discusses a Salãt of a hundred Rak‟ãts. However, Ibn Jawzi ® and others declared this narration to be a fabrication (Mawdhu). [Ma‟ãrifus Sunan Vol. 5 Pg. 419]. Allama Dhahabi, Ibnu-Arraq, Suyuti, Mulla Ali Qari and other scholars of Hadith have vehemently refuted such Salãh‟s. FASTING ON THE FIFTEENTH OF SHABÃN IS NOT ESTABLISHED FROM HADITH Some people believe in the misconception that fasting on the fifteenth of Shabãn is Sunnat. They have been deceived by the Hadith of Ali (R.A.) that appears in Ibn Mãjah which has been fabricated. The Hadith states Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said; “When the 15th of Shabãn comes, then spend this night in Qiyãm (Salãh) and the day in fasting. For verily, Allah descends during this night to the nearest heavens.” [ibn Mãjah Pg. 99]. This Hadith is however very weak. Some scholars have decided it as Mowdhu (fabricated). One of the narrators of this Hadith in Abnu-Jabrah, who has been accused of fabricating Ahãdith. [Taqrib of Ibn Hajar Pg. 396]. Imãm Bukhãri and others have also proved him to be weak. [Mizanul I‟tidal Vol. 5 Pg. 503]. Thus this Hadith cannot be relied upon. Hence the fasting of this day should not be regarded to prove this fast as been Sunnat. Another interesting fact is that fasting on this day is only discussed in this weak Hadith. If it were a Sunnat act, a stronger Hadith would have been available to prove it. Fasting in the month of Shabãn, without the stipulation of any day, is proven from Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam). THE NIGHT OF BARÃT AND QUR‟ÃN Has the night of Barãt been mentioned in the Qur‟ãn? The most correct opinion is that the night of Barãt has not been mentioned in the Qur‟ãn. Hafiz Ibn Katheer writes that those like Ikramah who have explained the blessed night in the Qur‟ãn as the night of Barãt are very distant from the correct interpretation. [Ma‟ãrifus Sunan Vol. 5 Pg. 420]. IS SUSTENANCE, LIFE AND DEATH DECIDED ON THIS NIGHT? Qãzi Abubakr bin Arabi writes that there is no reliable Hadith regarding the fifteenth of Shabãn from which it may be understood that sustenance, life and death are decided on that night. He has gone so far as to say that there is no reliable narration concerning this night being the blessed one. [Ma‟ãriful Qur‟ãn Vol. 7 Pg. 757]. Since the significance of the night of Barãt has been mentioned in a number of narrations, and the narrations are not in conflict with any verse in the Qur‟ãn or any authentic narration, we do accept its significance. However, the opinion that sustenance, death, etc. are determined on this night is in conflict with the Qur‟ãn and is therefore unacceptable. It has been established from the Qur‟ãn that these decisions are passed to the Angels on Laylatul Qadr and not on the night of Barãt. It is on this account that the scholars of research have always rejected this opinion. The opinion of the lectures would not be considered in this discussion, instead the opinion of the scholars of Tafseer and Hadith will be relied upon. There is a Hadith of Ayesha (R.A.) mentioned in Mishkãt Pg. 115. This Hadith discusses that the decisions are passed on this night regarding those who will be born, those who will die, the actions of men are placed in front of Allah and sustenance is revealed. The condition of this Hadith is unknown and the scholars of Tafseer and Hadith do not consider it reliable. SOME STRANGE AND INNOVATION PRACTICES ASSOCIATED WITH THIS NIGHT 1.Burning lights and candles: Nothing has or can be found in any Hadith. The Muslims of India, being in close contact with the Hindus, probably began imitating them in their practices, thus resulting in the introduction of this and various other bid‟ats. 2.Preparing of sweetmeats: Some consider this being compulsory. Without it there can be no Shab Barãt. This is absolutely baseless. 3.Souls visit families: Some people firmly believe that the souls of the deceased visit their families homes and see whether any food has been prepared in their honour or not. Some people feel that if a person dies before this night than until his „Fãtiha‟ is not made on this night, he is not counted amongst the dead. These are baseless ideologies that clearly contradict the Ahãdith. 4.Distribution of food: Some feel that it I compulsory to distribute food on this night with the intention of Isãl-Sawãb. There is no association between this practise and the significance of the night. No special acts of charity etc. have been prescribed for this night. [Fatãwa Imdãdiyyah Vol. 4 Pg. 27]. On these nights, in many Masãjid: 1. Congregational Yãseen Khatams are held; 2. Congregational Zikr sessions; 3. Congregational recitation of Salãt wa Salãm are held; 4. One person recites the 40 Durood etc. whilst others listen; 5. Individual Qur‟ãn recitations take place. All the above are NOT proven in the Shar‟iah of Islãm. Let us comply to the correct teachings of the Shar‟iah and not what we merely here from various lectures. Publication No. 24 ISLÃMIC TARBIYAH ACADEMY 45 Boothroyd Lane, West Town, Dewsbury, W. Yorkshire. WF13 2RB Tel/Fax : (01924) 450422 www.islamictarbiyah.com

Keep Striving For The Bigger Plan Sometimes Allah puts you through pain, so He can test you to see if this brings you closer to Him. If it brings you closer to Him, then your reward in the hereafter is going to make all the pain you had to endure in this world seem very insignificant. Keeping striving and don’t let the small distractions of this world lead you astray!

Dear Sister! Your Beauty is not in your Features or the Shade of your skin, or your Possessions. True Beauty lies in your Heart and in your Imaan, Taqwa, and Love for your Deen.

Should a person with high or low blood pressure fast? Those with well-controlled high blood pressure may fast with lifestyle alterations and/or medication. Their GP may require a change to their medication in order to help them take tablets outside the times of fasting. A person with so-called ‘low blood pressure’ who is otherwise well and healthy may fast. An adequate intake of fluid and salts in the diet is advised.

Complications of any common chronic diseases Diabetes has been discussed above. Other common diseases such as high blood pressure and asthma are controlled using medication that needs to be taken regularly every day of the year. This is necessary in order to avoid possible complications from the inadequate control of disease, such as a stroke or an asthma attack. A consultation with your doctor should provide an opportunity to discuss any potential options for completing a fast safely, while continuing to control your disease.

Constipation Constipation could be a very irritating problem for someone undertaking a fast. Maintaining good hydration outside the fast, eating healthily, with lots of fruit and vegetables in your diet, increasing the fibre content of your food using bran, and being active all help to keep your bowel motions as regular as would otherwise be expected. If the problem persists, a short course of bulk laxatives may help.

Headache This is a common problem and has many causes. Headaches during a fast could commonly be due to dehydration or hunger, inadequate rest, or the absence of addictive substances such as caffeine or nicotine. A moderate and balanced diet, especially not missing the pre-dawn meal, consuming adequate quantities of fluid and if necessary taking a dose of painkillers such as paracetamol, may all go a long way towards either preventing or reducing the risk of developing a disabling headache. Headaches can also be prevented by sensible measures such as not exposing oneself to direct sunlight, wearing a hat when out, using sunglasses to reduce the effect of glare from the sun and relieving any tense muscles with a short, gentle massage. Those with a history of frequent and/or disabling migraines should aim to gain adequate control with lifestyle and/or medical treatment if required, prior to starting a fast. Despite the above measures, if you have a persistent, disabling headache, you should see a doctor.

Poor control of diabetes Those injecting insulin are advised not to fast, as the potential risk to health, both in the short and long term, of not taking insulin is too great. People who have their diabetes under control using tablets should ensure that they visit their GP prior to Ramadan, in order to discuss any possible changes to their drug regime which would facilitate a safe fast. If not, such patients are at risk of poor control of their diabetes during and outside the fasting times. Regular self-monitoring of your blood glucose is strongly advised. Low blood sugar levels (a ‘hypo’) are dangerous, and if untreated may lead to fainting or fits, and hence must be strictly avoided. Feeling dizzy, sweaty and disorientated may all suggest a hypo. If this is suspected, you should immediately have a sugary drink, or place sugar or a sugar-rich sweet below the tongue. Long-acting tablets, such as Glibenclamide, increase the risk of having a hypo, and should be changed to a shorter-acting variety before you embark on a fast. Diabetics with further complications, such as angina or heart failure, stroke, retinopathy (eye disease), nephropathy (kidney disease) or neuropathy (nerve disease of feet/hands with numbness/loss of feeling) should seek careful advice from their doctor before starting a fast.

Heartburn (indigestion)From "Ramadhaan Health Guide" supported by the NHS The stomach is an acidic environment, designed to digest food and kill bacteria. The stomach and oesophagus (gullet) are normally protected from this acid by the body’s own special juices and ‘valves’ between these two organs. If either too much acid is produced or the valve at the bottom of the oesophagus is ‘faulty’, you may experience heartburn. Fasting usually reduces the amount of acid produced, but thoughts of food or the smell of it make the brain order the stomach to produce more acid. Hence if there is a net increase in acid, heartburn could be a problem during the fast. Those who are on regular medication for indigestion, such as antacids (eg Gaviscon), antihistamines (eg Zantac) or proton pump inhibitors (eg Losec, Zoton or Nexium) are advised to continue taking them, at the pre-dawn meal for instance. The control of heartburn or belching can be aided by eating in moderation and avoiding oily, deep-fried or very spicy food. Reducing your caffeine intake and/or stopping smoking can also be of benefit, if relevant. Preparations such as peppermint oil may help reduce belching or colic. Sleeping with your head raised on a few pillows and long-term weight loss may also help prevent heartburn.

By Shahid Athar M.D. At the onset of Ramadan Muslims all over the world start fasting from dawn to dusk daily for 30 days as ordained in Quran. "O you who believe fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you so that you can learn Taqwa" (Quran 2:183) The Arabic word Taqwa is translated in many ways including God consciousness, God fearing, piety, and self restraining. Thus we are asked to fast daily for one month from dawn to dusk and avoid food, water, sex and vulgar talk during that period. But why do we need to fast? It is our experience that temptations and ways of the world tend to spoil our purity and austerity. Thus we indulge in food all of the time, snacking and nibbling the whole day, heading to obesity. We drink too much coffee, or tea, or carbonated drinks. Some sexaholics can not stay away from sex unless they do it at least once or more a day. When we argue, we leave our decency aside and resort to vulgar talk and even physical fighting. Now when one is fasting, he or she cannot do all of that. When he looks at the mouth watering food, he cannot even taste it and he has to give up snacking and nibbling as well as smoking cigarettes if he does. No constant coffee, tea or Coke drinking either. Sexual passions have to be curtailed and when he is provoked to fight, he says " I am fasting that I cannot respond to your provocation". To achieve God consciousness or God nearness, a better word, we are advised to do additional prayer and read the Quran. Medical benefits of Ramadan Muslims do not fast because of medical benefits which are of a secondary nature. Fasting has been used by patients for weight management, to rest the digestive tract and for lowering lipids. There are many adverse effects of total fasting as well as of crash diets. Islamic fasting is different from such diet plans because in Ramadan fasting, there is no malnutrition or inadequate calorie intake. The calorie intake of Muslims during Ramadan is at or slightly below the nutritional requirement guidelines. In addition, the fasting in Ramadan is voluntarily taken and is not a prescribed imposition from the physician. Ramadan is a month of self-regulation and self training, with the hope that this training will last beyond the end of Ramadan. If the lessons learned during Ramadan, whether in terms of dietary intake or righteousness, are carried on after Ramadan, there effects will be long lasting. Moreover, the type of food taken during Ramadan does not have any selective criteria of crash diets such as those which are protein only or fruit only type diets. Everything that is permissible is taken in moderate quantities. The difference between Ramadan and total fasting is the timing of the food; during Ramadan, we basically miss lunch and take an early breakfast and do not eat until dusk. Abstinence from water for 8 to 10 hours is not necessarily bad for health and in fact, it causes concentration of all fluids within the body, producing slight dehydration. The body has its own water conservation mechanism; in fact, it has been shown that slight dehydration and water conservation, at least in plant life, improve their longevity. The physiological effect of fasting includes lowering of blood sugar, lowering of cholesterol and lowering of the systolic blood pressure. In fact, Ramadan fasting would be an ideal recommendation for the treatment of mild to moderate, stable, non-insulin diabetes, obesity, and essential hypertension. In 1994 the first International Congress on "Health and Ramadan", held in Casablanca, entered 50 extensive studies on the medical ethics of fasting. While improvement in many medical conditions was noted; however, in no way did fasting worsen any patients' health or their baseline medical condition. On the other hand, patients who are suffering from sever diseases, whether type I diabetes or coronary artery disease, kidney stones, etc., are exempt from fasting and should not be allowed to fast. There are psychological effects of fasting as well. There is a peace and tranquility for those who fast during the month of Ramadan. Personal hostility is at a minimum, and the crime rate decreases. Muslims take advice from the Prophet who said, "If one slanders you or aggresses against you, say I am fasting." This psychological improvement could be related to better stabilization of blood glucose during fasting as hypoglycemia after eating, aggravates behavior changes. There is a beneficial effect of extra prayer at night. This not only helps with better utilization of food but also helps in energy output. There are 10 extra calories output for each unit of the prayer. Again, we do not do prayers for exercise, but a mild movement of the joints with extra calorie utilization is a better form of exercise. Similarly, recitation of the Quran not only produces a tranquility of heart and mind, but improves the memory. One of the odd nights in the last 10 days of Ramadan is called the night of power when angels descend down, and take the prayer of worship to God for acceptance. Fasting is a special act of worship which is only between humans and God since no one else knows for sure if this person is actually fasting. Thus God says in a hadith qudsi that "Fasting is for Me and I only will reward it". In another hadith, the Prophet Mohammad (peace be upon him) has said "If one does not give up falsehoods in words and actions, God has no need of him giving up food and drink". Happy Ramadan to all Muslims. Shahid Athar M.D. is Clinical Associate Professor of Internal Medicine and Endocrinology, Indiana University School of Medicine Indianapolis, Indiana, and a writer on Islam.

Real Beauty Comes From Within Next time you look in the mirror, instead of asking Allah to increase your beauty, ask him to beautify your Iman. True beauty is not that of looks, rather, real beauty comes from within your heart, and only Allah can fill it with light! (idealwoman.org)

Allah, The Most Exalted says: "Seek the forgiveness of your Rubb, and turn to Him in repentance". (Qur’an-11:3) The Noble Messenger of Allah(peace be upon him) is reported to have said: "Turn in repentance to Allah and beg pardon of Him. I turn to Him in repentance a hundred times a day". (Hadith: Muslim). For the best du'a on seeking Allah Ta’ala’s forgiveness please visit: E-ISLAM

Allah, The Most Exalted says: "Say (O Muhammad (pbuh) ): Whether you hide what is in your breasts or reveal it, Allah knows it". (Qur’an:3-29) The Noble Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) is reported to have said: "The deeds are judged by the intentions, and a person will get the reward according to his intention". (Hadith:Al-Bukhari and Muslim). E-ISLAM

You look at me and call me Oppressed, Simply because of the way I'm Dressed, You know me not for what's Inside, You judge the clothing I wear with Pride, My body's not for your eyes to Hold, You must speak to my mind, not my feminine Mold, I'm an individual, I'm no mans Slave, It's Allah's pleasure that I only Crave, I have a voice so I will be Heard, For in my heart I carry His Word, ''O ye women, wrap close your Cloak, So you won't be bothered by ignorant Folk'', Man doesn't tell me to dress this Way, It's a Law from God that I Obey, Oppressed is something I'm truly NOT, For liberation is what I've Got, It was given to me many centuries Ago, With the right to prosper, the right to Grow, I can climb mountains or cross the Seas, Expand my mind in all Degrees, For God Himself gave us LIBERTY, When He sent Islam, To You and Me!

OBSERVATIONS ON HIJAB Author: Unknown It has been my personal observation that some Muslim girls and women do not realize the significance of hijab. Hijab is arabic for protection and cover. Some people put a lot effort into their hijab, yet it serves no purpose. I am referring to the pointless hijab that some girls wear. The first pointless hijab is referred to as the headband hijab. It is a band of fabric approximately 4 inches wide. It covers the back of the head and allows all the hair to be exposed. It doesn't serve much in terms of modesty, but at least it comes in handy in case of an unexpected tennis match. The second pointless hijab is the dupetta, also known as the Saran wrap hijab. It covers all the hair, but it is totally transparent. Again it doesn't serve much in terms of modesty, but it keeps the hair nice and fresh. The third type of hijab is known as the Mickey Mouse Hijab. It is when a girl wears a black scarf and tucks it behind her ear, so that her ears stick out. We now move to my favorites: The yo-yo hijabs. The first yo-yo hijab, also known as the Benazir Bhutto hijab, is the scarf that keeps falling down and needs to be constantly pulled back up....up, down, up, down, just like a yo-yo. The second yo-yo hijab is also referred to as the convertible hijab. This type of hijab is predominant at any type of social event, i.e. an Aqeeqah, Bismillah party, Ameen party, wedding, etc. This is when an Imam or Qari comes up to the microphone and starts to recite Qur'an. At this point, all the convertible hijabs come up...until he says "Sadaqallahul atheem". I'm not sure, but apparently in some cultures that translates to "ok sisters, you may now take off your scarves". I'm sure this may seem odd, but what's even funnier is when people do not anticipate the recitation of Qur'an at a social event, and are forced to be creative and use accessories such as a purse to cover one's hair. I was surprised to see a women hold her purse over her head as "hijab"..as if the multitudes of men surrounding her are not a good enough reason to wear hijab, but some guy reciting du'a compels her to hold a purse over her head. Her friends were more creative...one friend used her dinner napkin. I was also laughing when I saw the communal hijab -- two or more girls draped under one dinner napkin during the recitation of Qur'an. Her other friend was still more creative. She used her coffee saucer on the back of her head. I wasn't sure if it was hijab or a Yamaka. I didn't know if she was a Muslim or a Jew. I felt like going up to her and saying "Shalom alaikum, sister". And, people should remember that hijab is not just a protection from guys, but from a girl's nafs (ego) as well. It should prevent girls from having to spend hours in front of the mirror doing her hair. But, unfortunately, you see girls in front of the mirror for hours doing their hijab as they would do their hair, with all sorts of elaborate braids and the like. I wanted to go up to a sister and say "Is your hijab naturally curly?" I also felt compelled to go up to another girl and say "pardon me, but is your hijab naturally that color, or did you dye it?". Well, the point to remember is that some people make an effort to wear hijab, but it is futile, because it is not fulfilling it's purpose. It's like using an umbrella with holes in it. Hijab is used for protection from guys as well as from the girl herself, and should not be used as an accessory or for beautifying one's self. Anyway, that's it. If anyone disagrees with me or is offended, then you are disagreeing with the teachings of Allah subhanahu wa Ta'ala. A Hijaab which beats the objective!

I entered a large society. I walked through its districts and roamed through its squares. I wanted to explore its condition and discover its hiding places. I realized that there is no need to explore, for its doors are open and its secrets exposed. So I asked about my fellow sisters. I saw them deceived by fake appearances, running after new trends with fake slogans, competing with each other so each one could say, “ I am the best”. You see them walking freely in the markets, lost in the streets, wasting money. At wedding and functions they are clothed but naked, showing off their expensive dresses, high heels, and flashing their latest diamond jewellery. You see them wearing a new dress at every gathering clutching the latest Louis vuitton handbag and boasting with the latest iPhones in their brilliant colors and advanced styles for fame. We see the extravagance and wastefulness in every corner. They closed the doors upon themselves and pulled their curtains so they do not get disturbed by painful cries of our sisters in jail or the disturbed yells of the many orphaned children. It’s like they were created for themselves, they’ve been deceived by Dunya (worldly) fancy glitters and temporary enjoyment, and they pretend to forget that they have a family other than their family at home, sisters other than their real sisters. They are tied to them by the best humanly bonds. We see our brothers killed, imprisoned by oppressors and a destructive order. We see our sisters and children who live in fear and hunger in homes that are left lifeless after the parting of the loved ones. She fears the enemy’s soldiers will break down the door, and tear up the protective cover of her child. She wipes away the tears of a desperate poor child. He sleeps in the open air without cover and can’t find anything warm except his mothers embrace. He cannot sleep without being awakened by the sound of artillery. All this is the result of the enemy who ran over our lands with oppression and force, with power, hatred, and enmity, stealing and robbing. We see the blood of our Ummah being spilt, unjust imprisonment, persecution, and destruction, and still these women have closed their balconies and turned away their hearts. Until when this desertion? And until when this heedlessness and forgetfulness? O sister, I ask you, do you sleep comfortably while their eyelids are kept awake by the enemy’s hands? And how do you enjoy living luxuriously while your brothers go through what they go through from severe trials? How do you enjoy life when you hear of the terrified screams of your sisters in the prisons of the enemy? O descendant of Khadijah, Asma and Aisha (radi Allahu anha)… isn’t it time for you to realize that in this Dunya there is life and death, truth and falsehood, trials and ease, strike and revenge, Islam and Kufr? Who from among the women today carries the worry of the Ummah? Which one among the women cried over the fall of Qandahar? By Allah, you don’t see among the women except those who cry over love, and are not the least pained over that which befalls this great religion of Islam and its people! I know you might ask, what am I to do? I am just a fragile woman. Dear sister, there are times when we feel worthless. We feel as if we have no value in this society, as if we are there for no reason. We begin to dismiss our worth and our self appreciation because we do not know what it is. We struggle with inability to understand who we are, and surely that only comes from lack of faith and Iman. It comes from struggling to be accepted by society and ‘fitting in’. And when we do ‘fit in’ we lose the most valuable part of ourselves; we become robots whose only goal is to be exactly like everyone else. And that is when it becomes obvious that our goal becomes to please others, instead of pleasing Allah. Thus we forget our true identity. It is your duty to be part of this Ummah. So what about your place, where do you stand in this rapidly growing Ummah? Every scholar started with little knowledge. Every motivator was previously motivated by someone else. Every Imam had to attend classes to earn his title. Every leader began as a follower and took the initiative to stand on his own feet. So my sister, don’t just attend a lecture, be the speaker. Don’t wait for the author to write, be the author. Don’t just be a part of the Ummah, help improve it. Rasulullah Sallallāhu Alayhi Wasallam did all that he could for the Ummah right until his last breath he cried Ummati Ummati (my Ummah, my Ummah). Even on the day of judgment while everyone will be looking out for themselves, our beloved prophet will be crying out for the Ummah. Follow the lead of Rasulullah Sallallāhu Alayhi Wasallam and look out for your Ummah. O sister, the time has come, you have to wake up the hearts of the men, and arouse the determination of the heroes and say, “we refuse humiliation and subjection and we want to be free from having to bow to the cross worshipers . You have to encourage your loved ones in the path of Allah to uphold the banner of Islam and fight for the victory of this Deen. You have to instill your children with a love of going out in the path of Allah to fight for the victory of this Ummah and remind the men of their duty to Allah.The Lord of the worlds is more deserving that we sacrifice what is most beloved to us for His sake, from our lives and wealth. I say to you my Muslim sister, the least that is expected from you is that when your dear and loved ones set out in the path of Allah to give victory to this Deen, that you stay patient and be pleased by Allah’s orders. And that you are cautious that you do not repel others from the path of Allah and you do not become an obstacle on their way to Allah’s pleasure. Allah says in the Quran “those who prefer this life instead of the hereafter and hinder from the path of Allah (Islam)… they are far astray” (14:3) So be like Al Khansa, Nusayba, Umm Ammarah and Safiyyah (radi Allahu anha) whose examples can still be found in our times in far away lands, those who sought to lift the humiliation and shame of the Ummah and raise the banner of victory for Islam and the Muslims with the blood of their sons, and sought to end the spread of Kufr in the lands of Islam and its people. O mothers of the upcoming generation, it is your obligation and responsibility to teach and enlighten your children. They are the precious gems in your life. They are your amanah (trust) and responsibility. You should teach them about Islam and give them its history so that they can learn to love their Deen and get ready to fight for the sake of it. Above all, you should immunize them from falsification and deception regarding our true victorious Deen. Encourage them to seek knowledge which will benefit the Muslim nation. You should put sense into the minds of your family and remind them of their responsibilities to our Deen. I quote what Shaykh Abu Qatada(May Allah protect him) said: “The woman is the essence of the Ummah, and any shortcoming from her is true defeat.” It is you my dear sister who is the essence of the Ummah. What a great role you have in this Ummah! So strengthen your Iman upon patience and have strong determination towards Islam and aiding the Ummah. The utmost love, respect, and appreciation belongs to you believing mother, sister, and daughter. Our mothers in Palestine are miracles of Allah in this, and some of them are unequalled by hundreds of Mujahid men in their struggle and patience. Lastly my dear sister in Islam, there are times when you are wrapped up in worldly gains and tend to forget about your role and part in this growing Ummah. Times where nothing matter to you except little quarrels between you and your friends. Times when you force yourself to believe that there is no one out there better than you…our everyday life struggle is nothing compared to the agony and pain of our sisters in Palestine, Burma, Syria, Somalia and Afghanistan. There is so much more within your reach that you have carved for yourself. You are not like other women who are deceived by the glitter and fancy of this temporary Dunya, you are a strong willed Muslimah who wants to build a nation that says no to oppression. A Muslimah who wants to abide by the rules of Allah. Compliments- Al Malahim Media

“Allah Ta’ala wants us to contemplate on the blessings He has bestowed upon us so that we reach the conclusion that Allah Ta’ala loves us and then we return that love with love”! Beautiful words from our respected Shaykh Muhammad Saleem Dhorat! He then elucidates the special favours bestowed upon the Muslim woman. I have tried to convey his words to the best of my ability so that we as Muslim women know how much love Allah Ta’ala has for us, and through the barakah of Shaykh we do return that love with total love and submission, insha Allah: "The Qur’an, which came down to the best of creation, through the best of Angels, in the best of months, on the best of nights and in the best of places and through which Allah Ta’ala communicates with His creation was first recited to a woman, Hadrat Khadijah Radiyallahu anha. It wasn’t so that the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam met Hadrat Abu Bakr or Hadrat ‘Umar Radiyallahu anhum on his way back from the cave of Hira where the revelation took place, nor did he meet Hadrat ‘Ali or Hadrat Uthmaan Radiyallahu anhum. No he went home and recited it to his wife Khadijah Radiyallahu anha and it was to her that he expressed his fears, and it was she who comforted him and believed in him with firm conviction. She was blessed with being the first to accept Islam and she was the first to spend her wealth in the path of Allah. The Prophet sallallaahu ‘alayhim wasallam once conveyed salaams to her which Allah Ta’ala had sent through the Angel Jibraeel. What an honour for women! Even the high stage of being a martyr was first conferred on a woman, Hadrat Sumayyah Radiyallahu anha who was the first to give her life in the cause of Islam. Honours aside, Allah Ta’ala has been Kind and Merciful to His inferior creation in many ways. Men have to attend salaat with congregation at the masjid, having to walk there in all weathers five times a day to get 25 times more reward, while for women Allah Ta’ala made it easy, who get the same reward by performing salaat in the innermost part of their homes. Then there is the fact that a woman does not perform salaat at all during her days of menstruation, yet she gets full reward if she is regular with her salaat in days of purity. Along with being regular with salaat, if a woman fasts in the month of Ramadhaan, protects her chastity and strives to obey her husband, all 8 doors of Janaat are opened for her and she may enter through whichever door she wishes”. Here Shaykh mentions that obedience to the husband does not mean she is the slave and he, the master. Islam has made men and women equal in all matters, i.e. attaining knowledge, worship etc, in fact a woman may even surpass her husband spiritually, and there is no obedience to the husband in the disobedience of Allah. The husband is higher in status as a manager is in an office or a factory where someone has to be in charge. In the home the husband is the king, but the wife is the prime minister who is there to consult with as she is the one who is aware of the needs of the household, the children and the family. She need not worry about earning a living as Allah Ta’ala has taken care of this through first her father, then husband and son and whether she is a daughter, a wife, a mother or a sister, Islam has given her honour and respect”. Should we women not repay Allah Ta’ala for these favours by submitting to Him, loving Him and following His commands? Should we not be proud and honoured to be Muslim women and should we not fulfil the role of the Muslim woman? Posted on www.shaykh.org (Thursday, March 1, 2007)

A Christian ladys advice about hijab!! Words from a christian sister: Joanna Francis. A woman’s sexuality should be guarded from unworthy eyes, since it should be your gift to the man who will marry you. Your most valuable assets are your inner beauty, your innocence, and everything that makes you who you are. But I notice that some Muslim women push the limit and try to be as Western as possible, even while wearing a veil (with some of their hair showing). Why imitate women who already regret, or will soon regret, their lost virtue? There is no compensation for that loss. You are flawless diamonds. We Western women have been brainwashed into thinking that you Muslim women are oppressed. But truly, we are the ones who are oppressed; slaves to fashions that degrade us, obsessed with our weight, begging for love from men who do not want to grow up. Deep down inside, we know that we have been cheated. We secretly admire and envy you, although some of us will not admit it. Please do not look down on us or think that we like things the way they are. It’s not our fault. Most of us did not have fathers to protect us when we were young because our families have been destroyed. You know who is behind this plot. Don’t be fooled, my sisters! Don’t let them get you too. Stay innocent and pure. We Christian women need to see what life is really supposed to be like for women. We need you to set the example for us, because we are lost. Hold onto your purity. Remember: you can’t put the toothpaste back in the tube. So guard your “toothpaste” carefully! I hope you receive this advice in the spirit in which it is intended: the spirit of friendship, respect, and admiration. From your Christian sister, Journalist : Joanna Francis.

Part 1 How Walking Reduces Health Risks Walkers have less incidence of cancer, heart disease, stroke, diabetes and other killer diseases. They live longer and get mental health and spiritual benefits. Walk and Exercise to Add Healthy Years to Your Life: Analysis of research data shows that moderate and high levels of physical activity added disease-free years to life. Walk Away From Colds: Walking and Exercising Prevents Colds Exercise and walking have been shown by research to reduce your risk of catching a cold. Find out more about exercise and your immune system and how to prevent catching a cold. Walk and Live Longer through Walking: Research shows that walkers have a lower death rate Walking Prevents Cancer and Glaucoma Walking reduces the risks of developing cancer and glaucoma, according to research studies. Walking Downhill Lowers Blood Sugar: Research shows that walking only downhill had surprising benefits in lowering blood sugar levels and LDL cholesterol. Walk More, Walk Faster Says the CDC: Most walkers aren’t walking far enough, often enough or fast enough to get the full health benefits, according the Center for Disease Control. Developing a Walking Routine To be continued… Jamiatul Ulama (KZN) Council of Muslim Theologians 223 Alpine Road, Overport, Durban

Those suffering from type 2 diabetes may be worried about observing the fast during the Muslim month of Ramadan. However, it is possible to fast safely if you are careful about managing your diabetes. A recently study concludes that most people with well-controlled type 2 diabetes can safely observe the fast. The study was published in the July 2008 issue of Clinical and Experimental Hypertension. Nevertheless, it is important for those with diabetes to take care, since some drugs that are used to treat type 2 diabetes, such as sulphonylureas and insulin, can make your blood glucose level drop too low when you are not eating. Not drinking enough water can also make you dehydrated. Often the evening meal, iftar, contains lots of carbs and perhaps sugary drinks. Because this is a time when families eat together to break the fast, the food may be richer than what you might normally eat. And having fasted all day, you may feel you have an excuse to reward yourself, but you need to be particularly strong willed at this time! Fasting checklist: Seek the advice of your healthcare team before starting and at the end of the fast, since they may advise you to change the frequency or amount of medication you take. Do not stop taking your medication, however the dosing and timing of your medication may need to change – this should be discussed with your diabetes healthcare team prior to fasting. If you experience symptoms of low blood sugar levels such as sweating, anxiety, shaking, weakness or confusion then you should break your fast with a sugary drink followed by foods rich in carbohydrates. Avoid eating lots of unhealthy foods as a reward! Instead, try and maintain a healthy eating pattern after you break the fast. Make sure that you have lots of fruit and vegetables and dhal as these are slowly digested and help your blood glucose to rise more slowly too. Also remember to drink plenty of fluids. Divide your daily food intake into two equal portions, one to be taken at sehri and one at iftar. Be sure to check your glucose level regularly — at least once a day at different times of the day. Following Ramadan, visit your doctor to make sure that your blood glucose is being controlled adequately, and also to check whether your medication needs to be adjusted.