Ilma Magazine Nov/Dec 2013 | Issue 4 by Ilma Magazine

Ilma magazine

Nov/Dec 2013 | Issue 4 www.thedawahproject.com

Live, Learn & Inspire

Rabbi David Yisrael

Rebiya Kadeer

Sheikh Mohamed Al Yaqoobi

Saif Adam

23rd & 24th November 2013 Zain Bikha

Baba Ali

Native Deen

Kristiane Backer

INSPIRATIONAL SPEAKERS • NASHEED CONCERT • SOUK • FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT • WORKSHOPS

FASHION SHOW • ISLAMIC BOOK FAIR • INTERNATIONAL CHARITY SYMPOSIUM • LADIES PAMPER LOUNGE

FILM SCREENING • MUSLIM MARRIAGE EVENT • AWARDS & COMPETITIONS • LEGAL ZONE • HEALTH ZONE

SAVERAH FASHION WEEKEND AT THE GLOBAL PEACE AND UNITY FESTIVAL Tickets: www.saverahfashionweekend.co.uk | Enquiries: 0203 384 6839

To buy tickets visit: www.theglobalunity.com/tickets/types www.eventbrite.com www.facebook.com/GPUFestival

ExCel London One Western Gateway Royal Victoria Dock London E16 1XL

Contents

04 Editorial

Islamic World

06 Justice in Islam Leadership justice

Protector of 08 The Jerusalem History

16 Food Bites

Winter Warmers

Ilma Magazine

Istikharah Du’as & Supplications

22 Recommended Reading The Good Muslimah

Channel 24 Islam Programmes

All praise is due to Allah, Always Contribution and Appreciation: Editor-In-Chief: The Dawah Project Team Writers: Jana Sharaf & Anjuma Choudhury Visual Editor: Muhammad Abdulmateen Special thanks to Islam Channel For more information about advertising, marketing and sponsoring in Ilma Magazine, email us at ilmamag@thedawahproject.com Official website: www.thedawahproject.com

Sacred Lineage

23 Get Involved Volunteer

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Editorial In the name of Allah, the most Gracious, the most Compassionate. Across the Islamic world we are witnessing a combination of protests, wars, stability, development, and achievements. We at Ilma Magazine are inspired by the current global political circumstance. Therefore, in this last edition of 2013, we uncover the relationship between Islam and Justice and explore the life history of the Muslim leader, Salah alDin Yusuf Ibn Ayyub, who ruled Syria and Egypt in the 11th Century. He has been depicted as one of the greatest contemporary Muslim leaders, for he showed mercy towards his enemies during the time of war.

The Dawah Project will be present at the much anticipated Global Peace & Unity Festival 2013, fundraising for all three campaigns (Religious Programming, International Radio Campaign & International Dawah Centre). We will also be introducing never before seen merchandise such as our Calligraphy Cloth Bags, Calligraphy Posters, highly demanded Supplications CD and much more! Attend the GPU 2013 and show your support for the spread of Islamic Education through the Media. We look forward to meeting you all, In shaa Allah. Jazakhaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Allah Khair The Dawah Project Team

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Justice

in Islam

‘Al adl’ is the Arabic word for justice. In the Islamic context, justice evokes various implications. By and large it is universally accepted that justice is a moral virtue and an attribute of human personality. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) declared, “There are seven categories of people whom Allah will shelter under His shade on the Day, when there will be no shade except His. One is the just leader” (Sahih Muslim). Supremacy of Justice

Equality in Justice Justice applies to all races, religions, genders, and creeds. Muslims are commanded to be just to their friends and foes alike, and to be just at all levels, as the Quran puts it, “O you who believe! Stand out firmly for justice, as witnesses to Allah, even if it be against yourselves, your parents, and your relatives, or whether it is against the rich or the poor...” (Quran 4:135). Even more so, emotions should be put aside when there is a dispute and Allah says, “Let not the hatred of a people swerve you away from justice. Be just, for this is closest to righteousness…” (Quran 5:8).

Allah, The Most High “commands justice and fair dealing...” (Quran 16:90). Justice is considered to be a supreme virtue and part of faith as it is mentioned numerous times in the Noble Quran encouragAllah, The Most High “commands ing Muslims and humanity to abide it. Allah, The Most Just declares, justice and fair dealing...” (Quran 16:90) “We sent Our Messengers with clear signs and sent down with them the Book and the Measure in order to establish jusWith regards to relations with non-Mustice amongst the people” (Quran 57:25). lims, the Quran further states: “God does The phrase ‘Our Messengers’ shows that not forbid you from doing good and bejustice has been the goal of all revelation ing just to those who have neither fought and scriptures sent to humanity. Working you over your faith nor evicted you from towards justice that does not only valiyour homes...” (Quran 60:8). We can condate the Islamic Law, through it we beclude that this ruling applies to all nations come closer to Allah and His essence. and followers of all faiths.

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Justice and You As a Muslim and human being, we are required to encompass justice as a personal virtue reminding us that our Lord is closer than the jugular vein. Allah says, “Be just, for it is closest to God consciousness…” (Quran 5:8). Our character and speech must be a reflection of Allah’s teachings and beauty. We are told to utter words of goodness and truth. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was sent to mankind as a mercy and role model, “God has sent me to perfect good manners and to do good deeds” (Bukhari & Ahmed). Therefore, being just is part of one’s ‘adhab’ (Islamic Etiquette). Examples of Justice in the Quran The concept of justice comes with important practical examples illustrated in the Glorious Quran. One such example is the requirement of just treatment of orphans. Allah says, “And approach not the property of the orphan except in the fairest way, until he [or she] attains the age of full strength…” (Quran 6:152). Fair dealings in business transactions is also emphasized in the Quran. Chapter

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83 from the Quran identified as Surah Al Mutaffifeen (The Detractors in Giving Weights); the entire chapter is dedicated to explaining the repercussions of fraudulent dealings and the divine wrath that follows. Allah says, “Woe to those who give less than due…” (Quran 1:83). References to justice also occur regarding polygamy, which was revealed after the Battle of Uhud in 625 AH. This particular battle between the Quraysh and Muslims was a success for the believers, but a lot of men died, leaving many women, often with children, widowed. The Quran demands equitable treatment of all wives, “If you fear that you can not be just, then marry only one…” (Quran 4:3). The concept of justice should be innate to Muslims. It is the most noble of acts of devotion next to belief in Allah, the Omnipotent. The practice of justice may not always be effortless or to our immediate benefit, but we should trust that the divine is testing us to see, which one of us is best in conduct. Therefore, always have the intention to be just in your approach to life.

The Protector of

Jerusalem

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Throughout world history many leaders have come and gone leaving behind recorded moments and legends remembered either for their tyranny or for their just leadership. The legend of Salah al-Din Yusuf Ibn Ayyub may not be fully known in detail by many. Commonly known as Salah al-Din 1137 was born in Tikrit, Iraq and died in Damascus, Syria.

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The Kurdish leader ruled Egypt and Syria and is famous for his military competence against the Crusaders and his honourable mercy to them. Salah al-Din was a King, Emperor, Minister, and Freedom Fighter, but yet left no funds for his funeral. This is the legend that all true leaders should aspire to uphold, the legend of Salah al-Din.

The

Greatest

Battle Islamic etiquettes, knowledge, and confidence are admirable attributes to look for in any leader. From a young age Salah al-Din was enlightened in religious studies and felt connected to the Holy Quran; the source of divine wisdom. His zeal for justice and mercy made friends and foes respect him. His first experience of combat was in Egypt. Salah al-Din was taken with Commander Shirkuh (his uncle) against the tyrant ruler of Egypt known as Shawar. The battle launched, Shirkuh and Salah al-Din were losing many men. Salah Al Din then suggested that they stage a false retreat at which, only his uncle will be present and Salah al-Din will attack full force from the back. Shawar was an arrogant tyrant with little knowledge Nov / Dec 2013 / Issue 4

of the area. Hence, as he was commencing down the sandy hills with Giza horses, failed to maintain balance. Salah al-Din used this opportunity of weakness and attacked from the back capturing Shawar, and defeating him. This battle was labelled as one of the greatest in history because Salah al-Din demonstrated courage and knowledge in military strategy of the area, which Shawar did not acquire. Salah al-Dinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s uncle Shirkuh died a year after the battle of natural causes. Thereafter, Salah Al Din was left to rule Egypt and made extensive efforts in building Islamic institutions, Islamic schools and mosques. 10

The Sunni Vizier in Shiite Caliphate Post ruling of Egypt in 1169, the Abbasid Caliphate of Syria requested Salah al-Din to rule Syria. Many historians have debated the reasons of him taking upon the expansive position, but Islamic scholars refuted, saying that it was his “generosity, military excellence, and justice” that won him this post with all ministers supporting him. Upon the commencement of his post, he was bestowed with immense jurisdiction power. He banned alcohol consumption and further embraced the humble robes of Islam. Nov / Dec 2013 / Issue 4

Salah al-Din humbled his character even more ensuring that he was trusted with even greater power in the future. “Whoever acts on whims and desires and sin loses out and harms no one but himself. Whoever follows the Sunnah and adheres to laws and follows the right path, seeking that which is with Allah for those who obey Him, is doing the right thing, and is a winner.” Umar Ibn al-Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him).

Jarusalem and the

Crusaders

Jerusalem is a city that has rarely seen peace and single unified ruling. Subsequently, when a man managed to win a city over like Jerusalem and to unify its ruling, it must have been a turning point in history. Of all the victories nothing paved and marked history like the defeat of the crusaders. In September 1182, the European Christian crusaders were taking over and harassing small villages, whilst Salah al-Din was conquering cities. The crusaders pitiful harassments reached their height when they started to seal and pursue ships and caravans passing through Aqaba for the annual pilgrimage to Makkah.

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The pilgrims were brutally murdered and tortured by Raynald of Chatillonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s army. Salah al-Din responded to the massacres by attacking in Beirut full force with 30 ships, leading Raynald to attack more pilgrimage caravans and threaten Makkah and Madinah. The battles between Salah al-Din and Raynald of Chatillon continued for approximately three years. In the final battle, the Battle of Hattin, involving Raynald of Chatillon captured Salah alDinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sister and her son on their way to the pilgrimage. The pilgrims were not shown any mercy, and were brutally tortured and

murdered. In retaliation, the Crusader forces were largely annihilated by Salah al-Din’s army. It was a major disaster for the Crusaders and a turning point in the history of the Crusades. Salah al-Din had already seized and conquered most of Jerusalem by July 1187. Salah al-Din captured Raynald of Chatillon and Raynald consequently faced death. On the other hand, Guy of Lusignan was released from prison two years after his capture and sought to return to power as King. Salah alDin stated this to Lusignan referring to Raynald, “It is not the want of kings, to kill kings; but that man had transgressed all bounds,

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and therefore did I treat him thus.” A leader should be tolerant and merciful, but he should also seek justice for the oppressed. Had Raynald been merciful despite the agreements between the Muslims and the crusaders he would have not have faced the downfall.

Final

Crusade

Richard I of England better known as Richard the Lion Heart was given this title for his tremendous courage in the battle field, despite his courage and his inexhaustible means to win over what the original crusaders lost, Jerusalem. His attempt was feeble and yielded with no results. In 1191 after three years from the day he set from England to win Jerusalem, Richard realised that he was losing and ergo he wanted to make amends by securing an alliance with Salah al-Din and not lose power. He suggested that Queen Joan, his sister marries Salah al-Dinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s brother and the ruling of Jerusalem would pass to them. This did not take place. On the other hand, Richard I claimed that he had a worthy and

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generous opponent. Jerusalem remained under Islamic ruling granting Christians access to the sacred sites of their pilgrimage.

Mercy The Franks were a confederation of Germanic tribes. In the late 11th Century, Frankish rulers in Jerusalem captured many Muslims, threatening to kill them and the destruction of the Al Aqsa Mosque and shrines. Salah al-Din was forced into challenging negotiations with the Franks, having to purchase every captured Muslim.

“The most miserable rulers are those whose purses are fat and their people thin.” (Salah al-Din)

The treasurers at that time started to collect tax money from the citizens of Jerusalem, but Salah al-Din would free every slave and every family that was poor. Such was the mercy of Salah al-Din. Upon the Frankish departure and the freedom that settled in the aftermath, Salah al-Din called back for the original Jewish settlers to come and reside in the city and continued to grant access to Christian pilgrims.

In his possession was one gold and forty silver capitals; not an adequate amount for his funeral. His wealth was distributed for the city’s requirements. “The most miserable rulers are those whose purses are fat and their people thin.” (Salah al-Din)

Death Salah al-Din died from a fever on 4th March, 1193 buried in Damascus, Syria.

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Food Bites Winter is here! You pull out those jumpers from your wardrobe and you wonder why you are craving warm and rich foods. The temperature outside changes to cold British weather and so does our nutritional requirements, such as in taking more calories and healthy fats in order to maintain a healthy body temperature. We at Ilma Magazine decided to explore some recipes for you to make at home that are healthy and downright tasty!

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Main Course: Shepherd’s Pie with Green Beans Preparation Time: 10 Minutes Cooking Time: 25 Minutes Ingredients (Serves 6) 1 red onion 2 carrots 2 sticks of celery 2 cloves of garlic fresh rosemary olive oil 500g minced lamb 400g chopped tomatoes 250ml lamb or vegetable stock salt and ground black pepper 1.5kg desiree potatoes 100ml semi-skimmed milk Butter – 1 large table spoon 250g of green beans lemon juice to taste To prepare and cook your mince • • • • • • • •

•

Peel and finely chop the onion and carrots Trim and finely chop the celery Peel and finely chop the garlic cloves Pick the rosemary leaves, discard the stalks Heat a large pan on a medium heat Add 3 tbsp of olive oil and onion, carrot, celery, garlic and the rosemary leaves Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened Increase the heat, add the lamb mince, and brown for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally Use a sieve or slotted spoon to drain away any excess liquid from the pan, then tip in the tinned tomatoes

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Pour in the stock, season with a good pinch of salt and pepper and stir well, then bring to the boil Reduce to a low heat, pop the lid on slightly ajar, and simmer for 1 hour To make your mash topping • Peel the potatoes, cut them into halves and quarters depending on their size, and put them into a pan of salted, boiling water • Boil for about 10 minutes until tender • Stick a knife into them to check their soft all the way through • Drain in a colander and return them to the pan • Add the milk, butter and a pinch of salt & pepper • Mash until smooth and creamy • Preheat the oven to 190ºC/375ºF/gas 5 • Transfer the lamb mixture to a large ovenproof baking dish • Spoon the mash evenly over the top and poke the remaining rosemary leaves into the top • Drizzle with olive oil, then cook in the hot oven for 25 minutes or until golden and bubbling Steam green beans for less than 2-3 minutes add a hint of lemon juice olive oil and salt 17

Desert: Caramelised Apples with Vanilla Ice Cream How can a dessert help the hair grow and help you to remember things? Caramelized apples prompt hair and nail growth and combat Alzheimerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s disease due to their high content of iron and potassium!

Preparation Time: 10 Minutes Cooking Time: 5 Minutes

Ingredients (Serves 6) 3 tablespoons butter 5 spicy-sweet, crisp apples peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes 1 tablespoon, plus 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, divided 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon lemon zest 1/3 cup apple juice 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch, as needed

Preparation Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the apples to the pan and sprinkle with 1 tablespoon sugar. SautĂŠ the apples, stirring frequently, for 6-8 minutes, until they just start to turn tender. Sprinkle the apples with the remaining sugar, cinnamon, and lemon zest. Toss the mixture gently and cook over medium heat for an additional 2 minutes, until the sugar begins to caramelize and the apples are crisp-tender. Transfer the apples from the skillet to a serving bowl with a slotted spoon. Turn the heat to high and add the apple juice to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits. Reduce the heat slightly and allow the cider and the pan juices to simmer for 1-3 minutes, until the sauce has reduced and thickened slightly. Pour the finished sauce over the warm apples and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

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Detox with Honey, Ginger and Cinnamon Tea Here is the tea that helps you digest, and sleep. Cinnamon is excellent for relieving arthritis, muscle, and joint pains. It also helps stabilise the sugar levels in the body and combine it with the legendary ginger known for centuries for a variety of powerful therapeutic and preventive treatments from colds to cancer. Ginger inhibits oxidative damage, inflation, nausea, vomiting, cancer, asthma, dementia, ulcerative colitis, cardiovascular diseases, platelet aggregation, and cholesterol. Both cinnamon and ginger are great at aiding the digestion process. The benefits of honey vary according to the type you use. We most certainly know that it is a healthy sweetener, but make sure it is organic.

Preparation Time: 5 Minutes Cooking Time: 7 Minutes Preparation 1. Boil Cinnamon for 2 minutes 2. Turn hob off 3. Add ginger and cover the pan, let the mixture cool 4. Add honey to the warm tea not boiling

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Bon ! t i t e App

Dua

for

Istikhara “Istikhara” means to seek goodness from Allah, the Exalted. It is not necessary that you have a dream or even a “feeling.” Rather, the Istikhara is a prayer that Allah guides you towards that which is best for you. This prayer can be performed more than once and it does not have to be done after Isha Prayer (Night Prayer).

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Narrated by Jabir bin ‘Abdullah: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) used to teach us the way of doing Istikhara in all matters as he taught us the Surats of the Quran. He said, “If anyone of you thinks of doing any job he should offer a two Rakat prayer (prescribed movements and words) other than the compulsory ones and say after the end of the prayer: ‘Allahumma inni astakhiruka bi’ilmika, Wa astaqdiruka bi-qudratika, Wa as’alaka min fadlika al-’azlm Fa-innaka taqdiru Wala aqdiru, Wa ta’lamu Wala a’lamu, Wa anta ‘allamu l-ghuyub. Allahumma, in kunta ta’lam anna hadha-l-amra Khairun li fi dini wa ma’ashi wa’aqibati amri (or ‘ajili amri wa’ajilihi) Faqdirhu wa yas-sirhu li thumma barik li Fihi, Wa in kunta ta’lamu anna hadha-lamra shar-run li fi dini wa ma’ashi wa’aqibati amri (or fi’ajili amri wa ajilihi) Fasrifhu anni was-rifni anhu. Waqdir li al-khaira haithu kana Thumma ardini bihi.’ (O Allah! I ask guidance from Your knowledge, And Power from Your Might and I ask for Your great blessings. You are capable and I am not. You know and I do not and You know the unseen. O Allah! If You know that this job is good for my religion and my subsistence and in my Hereafter–(or said: If it is better for my present and later needs)–Then You ordain it for me and make it easy for me to get, And then bless me in it, and if You know that this job is harmful to me In my religion and subsistence and in the Hereafter–(or said: If it is worse for my present and later needs)–Then keep it away from me and let me be away from it. And ordain for me whatever is good for me, And make me satisfied with it). The Prophet (peace be upon him) added that then the person should name (mention) his need (Sahih Al-Bukhari, Book 21 Hadith 263). One must remember to be patient in terms of receiving the answer to their prayers. Our Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “The supplication of everyone is granted as long as he does not show haste and does not say that he made a supplication but it was not accepted.” (Abu Dawud, Tirmidhi, Ibn Majah)

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