Eid-ul-Adha Message from the Muslim Council of Britain
Volume 1 Issue 14 19th November 2010
The Muslim Seeker
The day of Eid-ulAdha seals the sacred ceremony of Hajj where well over two million people from across different parts of the world congregate in the holy city of Mecca to follow the footsteps of Prophet Abraham (Upon whom may God‟s peace and blessings be with). Men and women of all ages, languages, colours and backgrounds come together to observe the sacrifices made by Abraham. Sacrifice is a virtue when it is selflessly performed for the greater good. Abraham conveyed a true example of this. Abraham, as the Bible and the Qur‟an inform us, was commanded by God to sacrifice his beloved son. Both Abraham and his son willingly accepted this Divine decree, and as our Jewish, Christian and Muslim brethren will Cont p28
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Inside this issue:
An afternoon with NOUR P1 Trials and Tribulations P14 Brass Crescent Awards
P28
Blossom Fitness P30 IERA Dawah Campaign P33 To follow or not to follow P41 Special points of interest
Eid Message from Muslim Council of Britain Prevent a burn or you’ll learn Call of Duty Hajj 2010 photos Poetry Page Catalans beat St Thomas of Canterbury
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FREE ISLAMIC KNOWLEDGE FROM ITS ORIGINAL SOURCES in Fiqh & Tawheed! CLASSICAL Arabic & Tajweed! If you WANT TO UNDERSTAND ISLAM, then come join our (adult sisters only) class every Saturday. Classes are taught for free but you provide your own course books.
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Eid-ul-Adha Message from the Muslim Council of Britain
Cont from P1 will well know, the human offering was, at the point of sacrifice, substituted with an animal one. Abraham had beyond any doubt proved his devotion to God and his spiritual ascent was henceforth without limits. Today, we come together with those fortunate enough to have made the Pilgrimage to join with them in celebrating the life of Prophet Abraham and the remarkable work he has done. We show our gratitude for all his efforts and sacrifices. It is because of his spirit of sacrifice he was honoured to take the title of „Friend of Godâ€&#x;. Our beloved Prophet Abraham was sincere and determined in his mission. He demonstrated selflessness throughout his life and stood firm in the face of tyranny, injustice and oppression. This attachment to God in effect, resulted in his purity of spirit and strong belief to be willing to sacrifice what became beloved to him, his son. As he worked continuously to do good, he became a great example for mankind to follow. This specific act of sacrifice manifested itself in many ways and is juxtaposed with our daily lives to sacrifice our time, energies and resources motivated by a desire to bring people together and work with them in the pursuit of creating a society that is built on the ideals of respect, understanding and good-will. Muslims are blessed with countless opportunities to follow these noble footsteps. Promoting justice and peace are responsibilities that rest on the shoulders of all those who are predecessors to the Abrahamic tradition and as one such community, let us, as Muslims, be foremost in this struggle. I pray that this Eid-ul-Adha rekindles our determination and spirit of sacrifice, and like Prophet Abraham, to reach a goal of working for the greater good. Farooq Murad Secretary General The Muslim Council of Britain
The Brass Crescent Awards, a joint project of altmuslim and City of Brass, is an annual awards ceremony that honors the best writers and thinkers of the emerging Muslim blogosphere (aka the Islamsphere). Nominations are taken from blog readers, who then vote for the winners. What are the Brass Crescent Awards? They are named for the Story of the City of Brass in the Thousand and One Nights. Today, the Islamsphere is forging a new synthesis of Islam and modernity, and is the intellectual heir to the traditions of philosophy and learning that was once the hallmark of Islamic civilization - a heritage scarcely recognizable today in the Islamic world after a century's ravages of colonialism, tyrants, and religious fundamentalism. We believe that Islam transcends history, and we are forging history anew for tomorrow's Islam. These awards are a means to honor ourselves and celebrate our nascent community, and promote its growth. The Brass Crescent Awards, a joint project of altmuslim and City of Brass, is an annual awards ceremony that honors the best writers and thinkers of the emerging Muslim blogosphere (aka the Islamsphere). Nominations are taken from blog readers, who then vote for the winners. What are the Brass Crescent Awards? They are named for the Story of the City of Brass in the Thousand and One Nights. Today, the Islamsphere is forging a new synthesis of Islam and modernity, and is the intellectual heir to the traditions of philosophy and learning that was once the hallmark of Islamic civilization - a heritage scarcely recognizable today in the Islamic world after a century's ravages of colonialism, tyrants, and religious fundamentalism. We believe that Islam transcends history, and we are forging history anew for tomorrow's Islam. These awards are a means to honor ourselves and celebrate our nascent community, and promote its growth. The Brass Crescent Awards, a joint project of altmuslim and City of Brass, is an annual awards ceremony that honors the best writers and thinkers of the emerging Muslim blogosphere (aka the Islamsphere). Nominations are taken from blog readers, who then vote for the winners. What are the Brass Crescent Awards? They are named for the Story of the City of Brass in the Thousand and One Nights. Today, the Islamsphere is forging a new synthesis of Islam and modernity, and is the intellectual heir to the traditions of philosophy and learning that was once the hallmark of Islamic civilization - a heritage scarcely recognizable today in the Islamic world after a century's ravages of colonialism, tyrants, and religious fundamentalism. We believe that Islam transcends history, and we are forging history anew for tomorrow's Islam. These awards are a means to honor ourselves and celebrate our nascent community, and promote its growth. The judging process Our panel of judges reflect the talent and diversity of the Muslim blogosphere, and are accomplished bloggers themselves, as well as past winners of the Brass Crescent Awards:
We started the Brass Crescent Awards in 2004 with the purpose of promoting the best writing of the Muslim web and exposing them to a greater number of readers, and with your help we seem to have succeeded. We are humbled and overwhelmed by the response that the awards have been given by the nominees, winners, and voters, and hope to improve and expand the awards to more effectively serve the growing community of Muslim bloggers.
Svend White of Akram's Razor Laura Poyneer of veiled4allah
The Brass Crescent Awards are awarded on an annual basis, based on the Islamic calendar. Nominations begin immediately after Ramadan, with a panel of judges narrowing the nominees down to five in each category. Voting then begins and concludes shortly before Eid al-Adha, when the winners in each category are announced.
Yahya Birt of Musings on the Britannic Crescent
Our methodology There are three ways in which awards such as these can be given. One way is to make all the decisions ourselves, with or without a board of judges, and simply present them withAll judges have agreed to pull their respective blogs from consideration for out having a vote. The second is to let the process be completely open, and let people vote for any site, with the highest number of votes for any site prevailing. We feel the first the BCA awards. Together with BCA founders Shahed Amanullah and Aziz method is too authoritarian, and does not tap into the energy of the blogosphere to promote the winning sites. The second is basically a popularity contest, which does not necPoonawalla, the panel of judges will essarily promote the best writing and opens the awards up to potential abuse. select, on a consensus basis if possible, final sites out of the nominee pool In keeping with the goal of promoting the best of the Muslim blogosphere, we've settled on based on the following criteria: a hybrid of the two:
Quality of writing/production Popularity in the blogosphere (as measured by comments, links, Technorati score, etc.) Suitability for category
Previous participation (i.e. no past nominees in the "new" category) Nominations in other categories (limit to three total)
Readers nominate their favorite blogs to the Brass Crescent Awards A panel of judges will validate the pool of nominees to select the five finalists
Readers will then vote for the top blogs in each category We do not select or deny nominees on the basis of ideology, as this conflicts with our goal of highlighting the diversity of the Muslim blogosphere. So long as nominees consider themselves to be working in the best interests of Muslims and/or Muslim/non-Muslim relations, and are accepted as such by the bulk of their readers, they will be eligible for nomination to the BCA, in the spirit of the Qur'anic injunction to "compete, then, with one another in doing good works" (5:48).
Revised weekly timetable 2010-2011 Activity
Day of session
Time of session
Venue Harrow High School (Dance Studio)
Aerobics/Keep fit circuit training
Every Sunday
9:45am-10:45am
XMAS/New Year Break: No Session from 26/12/2010 Restart on 16/01/2011 (Canon High School) XMAS/New Year Break:
Play Basketball
Every Tuesday
7:30pm-8:30pm Sessions stopped
Yoga
Every Wednesday
1:45pm-2:45pm
Restarts on 18/01/2011 Taking bookings only. (Harrow Leisure Centre) Restart: TBS Harrow High School (Dance Studio)
Self Defence (Kixa)
Every Wednesday
7:45pm-8:45pm
XMAS/New Year Break: No Session from 22/12/2010 Restart on 12/01/2011 Hatch End Pool + up to 30mins free swim
Learn To Swim (Adults/ based on ability)
Every Saturday
5:30pm-6pm
XMAS/New Year Break: No Session from 11/12/2010 Restarts on 22/01/2011 Hatch End Pool + up to 30mins free swim
Learn To Swim (Children/ based on ability)
Every Saturday
6pm-6:30pm
XMAS/New Year Break: No Session from 11/12/2010 Restarts on 22/01/2011
Revised weekly timetable 2010-2011 Activity
Day of session
Time of session
Venue Hatch End Pool
Mother & Toddler / Casual Swim
XMAS/New Year Break: Every Saturday
5:30pm-6:30pm No Session from: 11/12/2010 Restarts on: 22/01/2011 Hatch End Pool XMAS/New Year Break:
Aqua-Aerobics
Every Monday
8:30pm-9:30pm No Session from: 20/12/2010 Restarts on: 10/01/2011
** All sessions suitable for Beginners and all ages**
Aqua-Aerobics – Aerobic moves inside a swimming pool. Tone and exercise, light compact activity. Dress code applies!
Self Defence/Martial Art – is non-combat. You will be taught moves on how to defend yourself from an attack. Grading is from Yellow to Black belt for those who wish to master the art. Technique and control is taught from the start. There is one-to-one and group level instruction. Dedication and determination a pre-requisite! Annual Kixa membership applies. Please ask for more information. Minimum 5 weeks booking applies!
Aerobics/Keep Fit Circuit Training –Highly motivating, short aerobic routine with Interval Circuit Training taught to tone and improve your vascular fitness and for improving energy levels. Aids weight loss. This session is aimed at all levels of fitness. No previous experience necessary. Session is an equivalent or better than a Gym session, and proven to be more popular!
Yoga – Gentle moves to improve flexibility and circulation and is suitable for all age-groups. Free advice is given on the health benefits of the moves involved to complement . All forms of yoga disciplines are practiced to suit the attendees. We are taking bookings only.
Play Basketball – Team basketball taught and played. Please reserve your place, currently taking bookings only.
Learn To Swim – Pre-booking is necessary for a minimum 10 week programme from beginner onwards. No previous experience necessary. 30 minutes taught session, with up to 30 minutes unsupervised swim. Dress code applies, please ask for more information. There are limited places!
Mother & Toddler Swim – there is a dress code, and boys of 5yrs and under welcome. Please ask for more information.
Casual Swim – Floats and other swim accessories available. Dress code applies. Please ask for more information. *Any injuries or medical conditions must be reported to the Instructor/Blossom Rep *The sessions are all accessible for disabled persons
Venue Information: Hatch End Leisure Centre
Harrow Leisure Centre
Bus Routes: H14, H12 BR: Hatch End
Bus Routes: 340, 140, 186, H9 H10 Nearest Tube: Harrow & Wealdstone
Canon High School
Harrow High School
Bus Routes 114, 288, 79 Nearest Tube: Queensbury
Bus Routes 114, 183, Nearest Tube: Harrow-on-theHill, Northwick Park
Uxbridge Rd, Hatch End, Harrow, HA5 4EA
Shaldon Rd, HA8 6AN
Christchurch Avn, Harrow, HA3 5BD
Gayton Rd, HA1 2JG
Contact Information: Sahida on: 07908 196 065
Swim Side Observations: · Children 5 and under must wear arm bands when swimming · 1 adult/guardian must supervise/accompany each child 7 and under · Maximum of 1 child of 5 yrs and under, per guardian/parent · Maximum of 2 children if children are between 5 and 8 yrs per guardian/parent · No boys over the age of 5 yrs. Dress code - Swimming Pool · Sleeveless/short-sleeved Tight t-shirt – not see through when wet & · Leggings or shorts – not see through when wet · Swim suit or bikini underneath if wearing a t-shirt/shorts/leggings Or · Swimming costume which covers from chest down (with shorts to cover top of thighs/ legs) & · Flip-flops · Swimming cap · Please take a shower before entering pool. · No bikini tops/bottoms unless wearing these under a garment as specified above. · Please show respect and decency when changing in the communal areas. Non-wet-side activities · Good trainers and suitable loose sports clothing with a suitable drink. Please ensure that you bring the correct change with you to the sessions, unfortunately we are unable to carry a lot of change with us. Please wait for either a Blossom representative or Leisure Centre Staff permission before entering the pool. Leave the pool promptly at the end of the session as advertised
The Dhul Hijjah Dawah Campaign (Dawah Materials Urgently Required) It is on the Day of Arafah that Allah (SWT) completed his favour upon us and the final verses of the Quran were revealed: "This Day I have perfected your Religion for you, completed My Favour upon you and chosen Islam as your Religion." (The Holy Qur'an 5:03) Conveying the true message of Islam, no matter how small is an obligation upon all Muslims and is a way of completing our own Ibadah (worship) with great reward. Allah (SWT) says in Surah Fussilat; "And who is better in speech than he who invites to Allah and does righteous deeds, and says: 'I am one of the Muslims.'" (The Holy Qur’an 41:33) During the month of Ramadan iERA produced and dristibuted over 15,000 Dawah Boxes nationwide inviting people to Islam. Ibn 'Abbas reports that the Messenger of Allaah (Peace and Blesssing be upon Him) said, "No good deeds done on other days are superior to those done on these days [meaning the ten days of Dhul-Hijjah]." [Sahih Bukhari] We need your help to produce more dawah materials like those found in our dawah boxes to keep spreading the word of Islam.
Materials to be Produced: - Selected Verses of the Qur’an Print Run 15,000 - Estimated Cost £5000 Man in the Red Underpants Promoting the concept of God through the use of common sense and reason. Print Run 15,000 Estimated Cost £5000 Another View - CD 10,000 Copies - Estimated Cost £2000
Zaid ibn Arqam (RA) related that the companions of Rasulullah (Peace and Blessing be upon Him) asked, “O Rasulullah, what is sacrifice? He replied, it is the sunnah of your father Ibraheem. They asked again, what benefit do we get from it? He answered a reward for every hair of the sacrificed animal. And what reward is there for animals with wool? they asked. A reward, he said, for every fiber of the wool." (Ibn Majah, Musnad Ahmad, Mishkaat) The Dhul Hijjah Dawah Campaign As we approach the end of the 10 blessed days of Dhul Hijjah, The Prophet (Peace and Blessing be upon Him) said: "On no days is the worship of Allah Ta'ala more loved than in the first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah. The fast of each of these days is equal to the fast of a whole year, and the worship of each of these nights is equal to the worship of Laila-tul-Qadr (Night of Power).” (TIRMIZI & IBN MAJAH) The 10th of Dhul Hijjah marks an important act of worship that has been performed by Muslims for the past 1431years, the qurbanni (sacrifice). Started by Prophet Ibraheem (Peace be upon Him) when Allah (SWT) ordered him to scarifies his son, Ismail (Peace be Upon Him). The act of sacrifice itself entails great reward: It is related by Ayesha (RA) that Rasulullah (Peace and Blessing be upon Him) said, 'There is nothing dearer to Allah Ta'ala during the days of sacrifice than the sacrificing of animals. The sacrificed animal shall come on the day of Qiyamah with its horns, hair and hooves (to be weighed in reward). The sacrifice is accepted by Allah Ta'ala before the blood reaches the ground. Therefore sacrifice with an open and happy heart." (Tirmizhi, Ibn Majah) From the above ahadith, we have seen the immense reward of these 10 days and the great reward that sacrifices carry. Conveying the true message of Islam, no matter how small is an obligation upon all Muslims and is a way of completing our own Ibadah (worship) with great reward. Allah (SWT) says in Surah Fussilat; "And who is better in speech than he who invites to Allah and does righteous deeds, and says: 'I am one of the Muslims.'" (The Holy Qur‟an 41:33) Lets not forget that dawah carries great reward. The Prophet (saw) said that; “Whoever calls to guidance will gain a reward similar to that gained by his followers without curtailing their rewards.” [Sahih Muslim] Imagine the reward if one person is guided through the donation you make to help us meet our humble target. We at iERA have launched an appeal to fundraise for much needed Dawah Materials. Alhamdulillah these materials have been a great success in bringing people into the fold of Islam.
We are asking you to use this opportunity to donate £100.00 or whatever you wish towards the production of Da’wah materials.
On this blessed occasion we wish you and your family a happy and rewarding Eid and would like to take this opportunity to express our most sincere thanks for your continued support of Muslim Aid.
Sir Iqbal Sacranie Muslim Aid Chairman
*TEN RULES FOR THE PEACE OF MIND* 1. Do Not Interfere In Others’ Business Unless Asked: Most of us create our own problems by interfering too often in others‟ affairs. We do so because somehow we have convinced ourselves that our way is the best way, our logic is the perfec.........t logic and those who do not conform to our thinking must be criticized and steered to the right direction, our direction. This thinking denies the existence of individuality and consequently the existence of God.. God has created each one of us in a unique way. No two human beings can think or act in exactly the same way. All men or women act the way they do because God within them prompts them that way. Mind your own business and you will keep your peace. 2. Forgive And Forget: This is the most powerful aid to peace of mind. We often develop ill feelings inside our heart for the person who insults us or harms us. We nurture grievances. This in turn results in loss of sleep, development of stomach ulcers, and high blood pressure. This insult or injury was done once, but nourishing of grievance goes on forever by constantly remembering it. Get over this bad habit. Life is too short to waste in such trifles. Forgive,20Forget, and march on. Love flourishes in giving and forgiving. 3. Do Not Crave For Recognition: This world is full of selfish people. They seldom praise anybody without selfish motives. They may praise you today because you are in power, but no sooner than you are powerless, they will forget your achievement and will start finding faults in you. Why do you wish to kill yours if in striving for their recognition? Their recognition is not worth the aggravation. Do your duties ethically and sincerely. 4. Do Not Be Jealous: We all have experienced how jealousy can disturb our peace of mind. You know that you work harder than your colleagues in the office, but sometimes they get promotions; you do not. You started a business several years ago, but you are not as successful as your neighbor whose business is only one year old. There are several examples like these in everyday life. Should you be jealous? No. Remember everybody‟s life is shaped by his/her destiny, which has now become his/ her reality. If you are destined to be rich, nothing in the world can stop you. If you are not so destined, no one can help you either. Nothing will be gained by blaming others for your misfortune. Jealousy will not get you anywhere; it will only take away your peace of mind. 5. Change Yourself According To The Environment: If you try to change the environment single-handedly, the chances are you will fail. Instead, change yourself to suit your environment. As you do this, even the environment, which has been unfriendly to you, will mysteriously change and seem congenial and harmonious. 6. Endure What Cannot Be Cured: This is the best way to turn a disadvantage into an advantage. Every day we face numerous inconveniences, ailments, irritations, and accidents that are beyond our control. If we cannot control them or change them, we must learn to put up with these things. We must learn to endure them cheerfully. Believe in yourself and you will gain in terms of patience, inner strength and will power.
7. Do Not Bite Off More Than You Can Chew: This maxim needs to be remembered constantly. We often tend to take more responsibilities than we are capable of carrying out. This is done to satisfy our ego. Know your limitations. . Why take on additional loads that may create more worries? You cannot gain peace of mind by expanding your external activities. Reduce your material engagements and spend time in prayer, introspection and meditation. This will reduce those thoughts in your mind that make you restless. Uncluttered mind will produce greater peace of mind. 8. Meditate Regularly: Meditation calms the mind and gets rid of disturbing thoughts. This is the highest state of peace of mind. Try and experience it yourself. If you meditate earnestly for half an hour everyday, your mind will tend to become peaceful during the remaining twenty-three and half-hours. Your mind will not be easily disturbed as it was before. You would benefit by gradually increasing the period of daily meditation. You may think that this will interfere with your daily work. On the contrary, this will increase your efficiency and you will be able to produce better results in less time. 9. Never Leave The Mind Vacant: An empty mind is the devil‟s workshop. All evil actions start in the vacant mind. Keep your mind occupied in something positive, something worthwhile. Actively follow a hobby. Do something that holds your interest. You must decide what you value more: money or peace of mind. Your hobby, like social work or religious work, may not always earn you more money, but you will have a sense of fulfillment and achievement. Even when you are resting physically, occupy yourself in healthy reading or mental chanting of God‟s name. 10. Do Not Procrastinate And Never Regret: Do not waste time in protracted wondering ” Should I or shouldn‟t I?” Days, weeks, months, and years may be wasted in that futile mental debating. You can never plan enough because you can never anticipate all future happenings. Value your time and do the things that need to be done. It does not matter if you fail the first time. You can learn from your mistakes and succeed the next time. Sitting back and worrying will lead to nothing. Learn from your mistakes, but do not brood over the past. DO NOT REGRET. Whatever happened was destined to happen only that way. Why cry over split milk?
www.islamicstore.co.uk
"A group of formerly unemployed young people are crowned the E=MC2 Young Entrepreneurs of Newham 2010" High profile entrepreneurs and an ex-Dragon formed a panel of judges in the Den at an event sponsored by IT Giant Fujitsu in which one of three businesses formed by young people from adverse and hard to reach backgrounds in the London Borough of Newham won a ÂŁ500 prize for their business ideas 22 Baker Street, London, 8th September 2010 - Young entrepreneurs from hard to reach communities of Newham who have created their own jobs through forming their own businesses through The Small Business Consultancy's E=MC2 programme [Enterprise = (Money x Creativity)2 pitched their business ideas with real working prototypes for the grand ÂŁ500 prize to judges Rajeeb Dey, o2 Young Entrepreneur of the Year 2009; Simon Carter, Marketing Director, Fujitsu UK; Mark Savage, Founder and Managing Director, Comms Direct; ex-Dragon and Entrepreneur Rachel Elnaugh. The winning business idea was the revolutionary "Stir-o-Meter" the company, PreventaBurn and it's young directors from previously offending and unemployed backgrounds delivered a passionate pitch to the high profile Dragons and guests. They displayed a working prototype of the revolutionary disposable coffee stirrer which prevents consumers from burning their tongues when consuming hot drinks. The Stir-o-Meter, made using a unique combination of engineered plactics changes colour when in contact with fluid over 75 Degrees. The young entrpreneurs have even recruited top patent attorneys Thompson Gray to support them free of charge in registering their designs, they have opened discussions with plastic engineering companies to manufacture the product and have had preliminary discussions with directors of a top coffee chain to consider trialling their product in some of it's busiest stores in London. A group of seven budding young entrepreneurs participated in the two and a half month E=MC2 programme delivered by founder of TSBC and social entrepreneur Amar Lodhia with the support of their Entrepreneur Volunteer Business Advisor Brayley Pearce (former star of Channel 4's Make Me a Million documentary and serial entrepreneur) to develop their company and product through the E=MC2 Programme Ayoub Ali, 17, Managing Director of PreventaBurn said "Amar, Brayley and the board of The Small Business Consultancy have been an inspiration to all of us, they have led us with great enthuSponsored by siasm. I have learnt a lot from everyone, qualities such as commitment, dedication and being creative. It has been a privilege working with entrepreneurs so closely and I hope to use the skills I have gained under their charge in other aspects of my life."
To follow or not to follow. That is the question! Can someone explain why yet again some people are doing Eid on Tuesday and some are doing Eid on Wednesday. The people doing it on Tuesday say they are doing it after the Day of Arafah, the people doing it on Wednesday say they are doing it according to local moon sighting in the UK. Who is right? Who is following the Sunnah? Can someone help me please? Answers from various Muslims from across the world: The following are various answers to the above question: I‟m sticking with the Saudis for my Eids. They have Hajj there and they know when it's time. We don't need confusion. If you see the Hujaj in Arafah then that‟s it. So do the ones who celebrate on Wednesday fast on Tuesday? The difference of opinion – is that the issue is more political than theological (as most of our issues are). It is the opinion that I prefer, which allows for scientific calculations... (not that my opinion means anything). Still, the reflective one should come to ponder the importance of unity, political solidarity (i.e. Khilafah), and organised collective action. One of the biggest potential unifying concepts from the religion is often sabotaged by confusion that points to the Ummah's backwardness in this era. May Allah restore our solidarity! If countries differ with regard to when Ramadaan begins and when the day of „Arafah is, with whom should I fast? Because of some personal circumstances we moved to Pakistan, where a lot of things are different, such as the time of prayer, etc. I want to ask you: I am keen to fast on the day of „Arafah, but the Hijri date in Pakistan is different from the date in Saudi: when the date in Pakistan is the 8th of the month, it is the 9th in Saudi. Should I fast on the 8th – which is the 9th in Saudi – or should I fast according to the date in Pakistan?. (Check this for yourself) Praise be to Allaah. Shaykh Ibn „Uthaymeen (may Allaah have mercy on him) was asked: what if the day of „Arafah is different because of the moon being sighted at different times in different countries? Should we fast according to the moon sighting in the country where we are or according to the moon sighting in al-Haramayn (the two Holy Sanctuaries)? He replied: This is based on a difference of opinion among the scholars: Is there only one moon sighting for the whole world or does it vary according to when the moon rises in different places? The correct view is that it varies according to when the moon rises in different places. For example, if the moon is sighted in Makkah, and today is the ninth, and it is sighted elsewhere one day before Makkah, and the day of „Arafah in Makkah is the tenth for them, it is not permissible for them to fast on this day because it is Eid. Similarly if it so happens that they sight the moon after Makkah, and the 9th in Makkah is the 8th for them, then they should fast the day that is the 9th for them, which is the 10th in Makkah. This is the correct view, because the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “When you see it (the new moon) fast and when you see it break your fast.” Those who did not see the moon in their own location have not seen it. Just as people are unanimously agreed that the times for dawn and sunset vary according to their own location, so too the months are also worked out by location, just like the daily timings. Majmoo‟ al-Fataawa, 20. And he (may Allaah have mercy on him) was asked about some people who worked in the Saudi embassy in a foreign country, who said that they were having a problem concerning the fast of Ramadaan and the fast on the day of „Arafah. The brothers there had split into three groups: One group said: we will fast with Saudi and break the fast with Saudi. Another group said: we will fast with the country where we are living and break the fast with them. The last group said: we will fast Ramadan with the country where we are living, but we will fast the day of „Arafah with Saudi. They asked the Shaykh to provide them with a detailed answer concerning the Ramadan fast and fasting the day of „Arafah, whilst noting that for the past five years, in the country where they were living neither Ramadan nor the day of „Arafah had been observed on the same days as in Saudi; their Ramadan started one or two days after it had been announced in Saudi.
He replied: In the name of Allaah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful The scholars (may Allah have mercy on them) differed concerning the issue when the moon is sighted in one part of the Muslim world and not in another: do all the Muslims have to act on the basis of that, or only those who sighted it and the people who live in the same region, or only those who sighted it and the people who live under the same government? There are many different points of view. The most correct view is that the matter should be referred to those who have knowledge of it. If the moon rises at the same point for two countries they become like one country, so if it is sighted in one of them that ruling applies to the other. But if the rising points differ, then each country has its own ruling. This is the view favoured by Shaykh al-Islam Ibn Taymiyah (may Allah have mercy on him); this is the apparent meaning of the texts of the Qur‟aan and Sunnah and what is implied by analogy. In the Qur‟aan it says (interpretation of the meaning): “So whoever of you sights (the crescent on the first night of) the month (of Ramadan i.e. is present at his home), he must observe Sawm (fasts) that month, and whoever is ill or on a journey, the same number [of days which one did not observe Sawm (fasts) must be made up] from other days. Allah intends for you ease, and He does not want to make things difficult for you. (He wants that you) must complete the same number (of days), and that you must magnify Allah [i.e. to say Takbeer (Allahu Akbar: Allah is the Most Great)] for having guided you so that you may be grateful to Him” [al-Baqarah 2:185] What is implied by this verse is that whoever does not see it is not obliged to fast. In the Sunnah, the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “When you see it (the new moon) then fast, and when you see it, break your fast.” What is implied by this hadeeth is that if we did not see it we are not obliged to fast or to break the fast. With regard to analogy, the times for starting and ending the fast each day should be worked out in each country on its own, according to the local times of sunrise and sunset. This is a point on which there is scholarly consensus. So you see the people in east Asia starting their fast before the people of west Asia, and breaking their fast before them, because dawn breaks for the former before the latter, and the sun sets for the former before the latter. Once this is established with regard to the times for starting and ending the daily fast, it also applies to the start and end of the monthly fast. There is no difference between them. But if many regions come under the same government, and the ruler gives the command for the fast to start or end, then his command must be followed, because this is a matter of scholarly dispute but the command of the ruler dispels that dispute. Based on the above, you should fast and break your fast along with the people of the country where you are living, whether that is in accordance with your country of origin or not. Similarly on the day of „Arafah you should follow the country where you are living. Written by Muhammad al-Saalih al-„Uthaymeen, 28/8/1420 AH. Majmoo‟ al-Fataawa, 19. Islam Q&A Here in US, 10th is on Wednesday by both local sighting & calculations. Eid al Adha is on 10th Dhul-Hijjah & my opinion is that the committees should use the same criteria to base Eid al Adha on which they based their Eid al Fitr. If they go with Saudi then do Eid al Fitr with Saudi too. Don’t chop and change. Eid ul Adha means Festival of Sacrifice which goes back to commemorate Ibrahim (as) willingness to sacrifice his son Ismael to fufill Allah's command. The day was 10 Dhul Hijjah. Those who are not in Hajj hence should celebrate Eid on their 10th using the same criteria they use for Eid al Fitr. This was the way it was done till Muslims in US & UK started following Saudi.
Asalaamu Alaikum WaRahmatullah WaBarakatuhu, DAWAH TRAINING COURSE IN ROSSENDALE by Hamza Tzortzis Do you have the passion, drive and dedication to be part of the new era in dawah? If the answer is yes, then continue reading, as the Call of Duty has arrived in your city! Mission Dawah aims to inspire and motivate those interested in dawah to become part of the mass movement to call people back to Allah (SWT). The first step in the mission is training. The Call of Duty training course will give you basic grounding on how to give dawah in both theory and practice, enabling you to have both the knowledge and confidence in calling others to Islam convincingly and in a structured way. If this sounds good to you then book your place fast! The training will take place this Sunday (21st November 2010) by international speaker and debater Hamza Tzortzis. At the Rawtenstall Youth & Community Centre, The Old Fire Station, Burnley Road, Rawtenstall, Rossendale Lancashire, BB4 8EW To register (and for further details): http://codrossendale.eventbrite.com Places are going fast, and are only for those who are up to fulfilling the Mission. Jazakallahukairun, iERA
Hajj 2010: Boston.com
Jalaluddin Rumi O you who've gone on pilgrimage where are you, where, oh where? Here, here is the Beloved! Oh come now, come, oh come! Your friend, he is your neighbor, he is next to your wall You, erring in the desert what air of love is this? If you'd see the Beloved's form without any form You are the house, the master, You are the Kaaba, you! . . . Where is a bunch of roses, if you would be this garden? Where, one soul's pearly essence when you're the Sea of God? That's true - and yet your troubles may turn to treasures rich How sad that you yourself veil the treasure that is yours!
Extract: Shikwa,Complaint by Dr.Allama Muhammad Iqbal This is one of Iqbal‟s most famous poems, it moved many listeners to tears. Before our time, a strange sight was the world You had made: Some worshipped stone idols, others bowed to trees and prayed. Accustomed to believing what they saw, the peoples vision wasnt free, How then could anyone believe in a God he couldnt see? Do you know of anyone, Lord, who then took Your Name? I ask. It was the muscle in the Muslims arms that did Your task.
Sikander’s Poetry Corner Eglanteria I wandered the Earth far and wide Looking for beauty Skillfully treading paths unchartered Handcrafted by the creator The joy at the sight of you Wild and in full bloom I smelt the sweetness of your smell And tasted the sweet nectar Scarlet petals like rosy cheeks With oval hips Raised high and protected My destiny to be present in your company I pondered and gave a thought Was this a sign? To my heart you provided healing A drink (of various colours) O Rosa Eglanteria My Shakespeare’s rose I (The Bee) danced in a figure of 8 to tell the whole world That I am in love with you Sikander
Dear readers: if you would like to contribute a poem, then please email it to us at info.nmo@gmail.com Page 49
Nasheeds and Poetry Page | Page 58
Dawud Ali Wharnsby Sing Children Of The World
Walking through the crowded streets of a market in Morocco Sitting on a smiling camel in the desert of Arabia Chasing 'round the bamboo trees abandoned in Indonesia Gathering brightly coloured leaves in a forest of Canada Napping beneath the date palm shade under blue skies of Tunisia Sweeping out his parents' shop on a side street in Pakistan Planting rows of beans and maize on a small farm in Uganda Laying back to count the stars from somewhere in Afghanistan Oh Sing Children of the World (Sing along) Come together and hear the call Sing Children of the World (Sing along) Islam will unite us all Sing Children of the World (Sing along) Come together and hear the call Sing Children of the World (Sing along) Islam will unite us all Subhanallah, Wa Alhamdullillah Wa Allahu Akbar! Subhanallah, Wa Alhamdullillah Wa Allahu Akbar! Splashing through the pouring rain in a village of Guyana Nibbling cakes from picnic plates on a mountain top in Switzerland Tending to a flock of sheep down under in Australia Greeting morning with a prayer on the golden Egyptian Sand Oh Sing Children of the World (Sing along) Come together and hear the call Sing Children of the World (Sing along) Islam will unite us all Sing Children of the World (Sing along) Come together and hear the call Sing Children of the World (Sing along) Islam will unite us all Subhanallah, Wa Alhamdullillah Wa Allahu
Akbar! Subhanallah, Wa Alhamdullillah Wa Allahu Akbar! Crying himself to sleep with no hope left for dreaming Begging in the burning sun, holding out her hand Palms held tightly on his ears to muffle all the screaming Sitting where her house once stood trying hard to understand See the Children of the World (Subhannallah) All the Children of the World (Subhannallah) Sing for the Children of the World (Subhannallah) Pray for the Children of the World (Subhannallah) [DWA and Children] Sing Children of the World (Sing along) Come together and hear the call Sing Children of the World (Sing along) Islam will unite us all Sing Children of the World (Sing along) Come together and hear the call Sing Children of the World (Sing along) Islam will unite us all Sing Children of the World (Sing along) Come together and hear the call Sing Children of the World (Sing along) Islam will unite us all Subhanallah, Wa Alhamdullillah Wa Allahu Akbar! Subhanallah, Wa Alhamdullillah Wa Allahu Akbar!
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Newham Muslim Community Directory O you who believe! Eat not up your property amongst yourselves in vanities: but let there be amongst you traffic and trade by mutual good-will: nor kill (or destroy) yourselves: for verily Allah has been to you Most Merciful. [Al Qur’an 4:29]
ACCOUNTANTS Zareef Kahloon & Co. Chartered Certified Accountants 343 High Street North Manor Park London E12 6PQ 020 8548 4095
CAR REPAIRS St Stephens Garage 133 St Stephens Rd East Ham London E6 1AT 020 8472 0325
CHARITY Kashmir International Relief Fund 577 Lea Bridge Rd, E11 0208 521 3220 07904119954
CITIZENSHIP CTS-UK 806 High Road, Leyton E10 6AE 02085328462
COLLEGE COURSES BITE British Institute of Technology & E-commerce 258-262 Romford Road, London, E7 9HZ 02085523071
FURNITURE Al Mirage Furniture 252 High St North Manor Park E12 6SB 02084700099
FASHION Meena Bazaar 341 High St North, E12 6PQ Ready made garments 02084722595 Uzma Creations 145 Green Street, E7 8JE UP TO 50% OFF 02084721313
HEATING AND MEDIATION ESTATE Muslim Mediation Service INSTALLATION 2a Streatfield Ave AGENTS Flame Heating C/H Systems and Boilers Repair –Service – Installations 0208 552 7698 07774 152272 07903 765755
HEATING, PLUMBING AND ELECTRICAL SUPPLIES Wellworth (London) Ltd 2-4 Tudor Road London E9 7SN Bath Showroom Trade & DIY Counter Huge Range of Fittings Heating & Gas Supplies Electrical Supplies & Goods Pipes, Valves & Pumps
KITCHENS Net Kitchens Direct 87 Wood Street London E17 3JX 020 8521 2171
E6 2LA 0208 432 2805
Islamic Counselling Marriage Mediation Service for Muslims Women 07909941179
PEST CONTROL Bed Bugz Exterminator Newham Wide 07515424918
SPORTS Football Muslim5aside Beckton Power league Norwegian Playing Fields, Jenkins Lane, Newham, IG11 0AD 07886275209 DM Football Club Plashet Park Manor Park E12 07515789068
MASJIDS SUPPORT
London APSA
Indian Muslim Federation (Newham Branch) 6 Lincoln Road Forest Gate London E7 8QW
07956556382
WRESTLING USB Leytonstone School Sports Centre 07949588196 07958251945 www.teamusb.com
BEAUTY Maira Hair & Beauty Salon 341-343 High St North London E12 6TN 02084722595
Football Club Years 1,2,3,5 07539647837
TUITION KiPP2 Tuition Centre 56-62 Church Road, E12 6AF 07886020071
XLR8 Tuition Home tuition by qualified teachers CRB Checked Strictly 1-2-1 07949641815
Wisemove London Ltd 250 High St North Manor Park E12 6SB
TRAVEL Your Travel Shop 197 Cranbrook Road, IG1 4TA www.travelshop.com 02085547070
FINANCE SA FINANCIAL SERVICE 197 Green Street, E7 8LL Mahmood Akhtar 02084714444
SWAP SHOP If you have items that you would like to swap or gift then please do email us and we will include in the next edition.
THANK YOU If you wish to send a message to a family member or someone who workds hard in the community then email us with your message
ADVERTISE If you would like to advertise and support us then please do ring us or email us: 07886020071 info.nmo@gmail.com If any local businesses or bighearted people wish to support us and believe that we are attempting to do good for the community, then please contact us and support us in any way you can.
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HMC was born essentially out of one concern and one concern only; to be able to provide assurance that we are eating genuine Halal, not just “because it says Halal… it must be Halal!" HMC is the product of a particular, prolonged situation – a situation of deceit and treachery. Muslims are being betrayed by individuals & corporations whose only concern is making fast, easy money. Using 'blessed blades', pre recorded Bismillah, captive bolts, electrified water and even pork proteins; the hard-earned Halal cash of many is being used to buy Haram. HMC has therefore, shouldered the enormous responsibility of discharging an obligatory duty on behalf of you, the community at large. Help HMC to Help You! Barkat & Sons Halal Meat 645 Romford Road Manor Park, E12 5AD Tel: 020 8911 8509 A M & Sons 84-88 Belgrave Road Ilford, IG1 3AL Tel: 020 8554 4030 A M & Sons (2) 397 Green Street Upton Park, E13 9AU Tel: 020 8472 7267 Amaan Halal Butchers 42 Upton Lane Forest Gate, E7 9LN Tel: 020 8470 1514 Bismillah Fresh Halal Meat & Poultry 70 Upton Lane Forest Gate, E7 9LN Tel: 020 8548 0992 Mob: 07932 836 696 Bismillah Halal Meat 370 Ilford Lane Ilford, IG1 2LZ Tel: 020 8478 9900 Budget Fair Cash & Carry 51 - 53 Upton Lane Forest Gate, E7 9PA Tel: 020 8552 2888
Butt Halal Meat 209 Ilford Lane Ilford, IG1 2RU Tel: 020 8220 7775 Hamza Halal Butchers 115 Altmore Avenue East Ham, E6 2BX Tel: 020 8471 2325 Iman Halal Meat 319 Green Street Plaistow, E13 9AR Tel: 020 8472 3308 Kashmir Halal Meat & Foodstore 120 - 122 Katherine Road East Ham, E6 1ER Tel: 020 8472 8669 Khan Halal Meat 103 Burges Road East Ham, E6 2BL Tel: 020 8552 7175 Lala's Quality Halal Meat & Poultry 89 Belgrave Road Ilford, IG1 3AL Tel: 02000 114 055
Noori Halal Butchers 328 High Street North Manor Park, E12 6PH Tel: 020 8472 1667 Quality Halal Meat 126 Barking Road East Ham, E6 3BD Tel: 020 8552 1122 Stratford Mini Market 48 Romford Road Stratford, E15 4BZ Tel: 020 8534 7281 Sunnah 457 Romford Rd Forest Gate, E7 8AB Tel: 020 8555 1441 Taqwa Fresh Quality Halal Meat 123 Green Street Forest Gate, E7 8JF Tel: 020 8552 2036 TSB Convenience Store 428 Katherine Road Forest Gate, E7 8NP Tel: 020 8586 6999 Unique Cash & Carry 418 Katherine Road Forest Gate, E7 8NP Tel: 020 8472 5705
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Abu Bakar 47 Upton Lane Forest Gate, E7 9PA Tel: 020 8470 2300 Ahmed's Perfect Fried Chicken 61 Vicarage Lane Stratford, E15 4HG Tel: 020 8522 4377 AJ's Chicken & Pizza 221 Ley Street Ilford, IG1 4BL Tel: 020 8553 1125 A'la Pizza 28 Upton Lane Forest Gate, E7 9LN Tel: 020 8586 6688 Aladdin BBQ & Grill 121 Ley Street Ilford, IG1 4BH Tel: 020 8553 3357 Al-Farooq Kebabish 435 Barking Road, East Ham, E6 2JX Tel: 020 8472 0917 Al-Farooq Kebabish 84 Upton Lane Forest Gate, E7 9LW Tel: 020 8472 3049 Al-Farooq Kebabish 395 Green Street Upton Park, E13 9AU Tel: 020 8471 1452 Al-Firdous Restaurant & Takeaway 187 Plashet Road Forest Gate, E13 0QZ Tel: 020 8503 5340 Bar B Q Base 832 Romford Road, Manor Park, E12 5JG Tel: 020 8514 2989 Chicken 2 Go 418 High Street North Manor Park, E12 6RH Tel: 020 8475 0003 Dixy Chicken 282 Barking Road East Ham, E6 3BA Tel: 020 8471 0900
Dixy Chicken 198 High Street North East Ham, E6 2JA Tel: Dixy Fried Chicken 372 High Street North Manor Park, E12 6PH Tel: 020 8548 1336 Euro Fried Chicken & Pizza 90 Upton Lane Forest Gate, E7 9LW Tel: 020 8471 4488 Griller (6) 649 High Road Seven Kings, IG3 8RA Tel: 020 8590 6400 GrillFellas 88 Katherine Road East Ham, E6 1EN Tel: 020 8471 9454 Hyderabadi Spice 309 High Street North Manor Park, E12 6SL Tel: 020 8472 0255 Jumbo's 66 Plashet Road Upton Park, E13 0RQ Tel: 020 8472 7637 Jungle Braai Barbeque 115 Wood Street Walthamstow, E17 3LL Tel: 07886 184442 Khana Khazana Restaurant 249 Green Street Forest Gate, E7 8LJ Tel: 020 8503 4200 Lahore Xpress 99 Green Street Forest Gate, E7 8JF Tel: 020 8471 3353 Madina Kebabish 85a Upton Lane Forest Gate, E7 9PB Tel: 020 8586 7027 Mai'da Indian Eatery 148-150 Bethnal Green Rd London, E2 6DG Tel: 020 7739 2645
@ Manish 23 Queens Market Upton Park, E13 9BA Tel: 020 8472 2441 Noor Fried Chicken 284 Barking Road East Ham, E6 3BA Tel: 020 8472 5555 Pandoo's Family Restaurant 112 Cranbrook Road Ilford, IG1 4LZ Tel: 020 8518 6677 Pizza Pan 16 Terrace Road Plaistow, E13 0PB Tel: 020 8548 1144 Salt & Pepper Lahori Cuisine 704 Romford Road Manor Park, E12 5AJ Tel: 020 8514 3145 Sheikh's Restaurant 89 Green Street Forest Gate, E7 8JF Tel: 020 8471 3366 Shiowari 229-231 Cranbrook Road Ilford, IG1 4TD Tel: 020 8554 2022 Signature Hyderabad 107 Green Street Forest Gate, E7 8JF Tel: 020 8552 2646 Tandoori Nites 235 East India Dock Road Poplar, E14 0EG Tel: 020 7531 4331 Taste Of India 340 High Street North Manor Park, E12 6PH Tel: 020 8471 2122 The Grill Restaurant 392 High Street North Manor Park, E12 6RH Tel: 020 8470 0093 Zu's Sizzlers 83 Green Street Upton Park, E7 8JF Tel: 020 8471 1212
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Sports Page
This was a game that mattered. Not due to the fact that it was another 3 points but it was the conditions in which the lads had to play. Freezing cold, rain falling from the sky and the pitch more mud then grass. This wasnt going to stop the catalans
Page 48 Catlans 2: St Thomas of Canterbury 0
from playing possibly their best game under ruudy this season. Battling through every minute of the game was the key and thats exactly what they did. goals from Minhaz and Vinesh
settled the game, but the effort from the whole team was credited. Half way through this season now and still havent dropped a single point. Apsa game is approaching and the catalans camp is
NMO are looking for volunteers who wish to make a positive difference in Newham. Our main aim is to see walls being broken down, those walls that we have built in our hearts and minds. Please email us with any feedback: info.nmo@gmail.com
fully focused on taking another 3points and putting 1 hand firmly on the trophy.
We are on the web: www.issuu.com/ themuslimseeker www.newhammuslimorganisations.com Website still under construction!