From: www.islamicity.com
By: IslamiCitySource:
rbstudios.com
According to the Quran, Prophet Muhammad was the most excellent example for all of humanity. Even non-Muslim historians recognize him to be one of the most successful personalities in history. In 1946 Reverend R Bosworth-Smith in "Mohammed & Mohammedanism." wrote about the Prophet: "Head of the state as well as the Church, he was Caesar and Pope in one; but, he was pope without the pope's claims, and Caesar without the legions of Caesar, without a standing army, without a bodyguard, without a palace, without a fixed revenue. If ever any man had the right to say that he ruled by a right divine It was Mohammad, for he had all the power without instruments and without its support. He cared not for dressing of power. The simplicity of his private life was in keeping with his public life."In 1978 Michael Hart in his book " The 100 Most Influential Persons In History", selected Prophet Muhammad as the most influential person in history and had this to say about his choice: "My choice of Muhammad to lead the list of the world's most influential persons may surprise some readers and may be questioned by others, but he was the only man in history who was supremely successful on both the secular and religious level... It is this unparalleled combination of secular and religious influence which I feel entitles Muhammad to be considered the most influential single figure in human history."The Prophet's words and actions show us the way to achieve success, not just in this world but in the hereafter as well. In short, the Prophet of Islam was a positive thinker in the full sense of the word. All his activities were result-oriented. He refrained from all negative elements of behavior that are counter-productive to achievement such as hate, envy, arrogance, greed, etc. All the actions of the Prophet were solely based on a pure intention to please God. By studying the life of the Prophet we can identify some of the principles of success.The First Principle: Take the easier path.This principle is well explained in a saying of A'ishah. She said: Whenever the Prophet had to choose between two options, he always opted for the easier choice. (Bukhari) To choose the easiest option means that you should evaluate your options and choose the most feasible. One who begins from this starting point will surely reach his goal.The Second Principle: See advantage in disadvantage.In the early days of Makkah, there were many problems and difficulties. At that time, a guiding verse in the Quran was revealed. It said: With every hardship there is ease, with every hardship there is ease. (94:5-6). This means that if there are some problems, there are also opportunities at the same time. The way to success is to overcome the problems and avail the opportunities.The Third Principle: Change the place of action.This principle is derived from the Hijrah. The Hijrah was not just a migration from Makkah to Madinah, it was a journey to find a more suitable place to put Islam into action. Physical migration and perseverance is an important element in establishing Justice and Peace. This also planted the roots of intellectual migration from the subjugated minds to an awakened spirit.The Fourth Principle:Make a friend out of an enemy. The Prophet of Islam was repeatedly subjected to practices of antagonism by the unbelievers. At that time, the Qur'an enjoined upon him the return of good for evil. And then, as the Quran added: You will see your direst enemy has become your closest friend. (41:34) It means that a good deed in return of a bad deed has a conquering effect over your enemies. And the life of the Prophet is a historical proof of this principle. The greatest example of amnesty was shown by the Prophet after the blood-less conquest of Makkah. All enemies of Islam were granted pardon including Hinda, the wife of Abu Soofyaan who had disemboweled the martyred body of Hamza, the Prophet's uncle. In spite of her detestable mutilation of Hamza's body, the Prophet forgave her.The Fifth Principle:Education is central to success. After the battle of Badr, about 70 of the unbelievers were taken as prisoners of war. They were educated people. The Prophet announced that if any one of them would teach ten Muslim children how to read and write he would be freed. This was the first school in the history of Islam in which all of the students were Muslims, and all of the teachers were from the enemy rank.The Sixth Principle:Don't be a dichotomous thinker. In the famous battle of Mutah, Khalid Ibn Walid decided to withdraw Muslim forces from the battlefield because he discovered that they were disproportionately outnumbered by the enemy. When they reached Madinah, some of the Muslims received them by the word 'O deserters!' The Prophet said: 'No, they are men of advancement'. Those Madinan people were thinking dichotomously, either fighting or retreating. The Prophet said that there is also a third option, and that is to avoid war and find time to strengthen yourself. Now history tells us that the Muslims, after three years of preparation, advanced again towards the Roman border and this time they won a resounding victory.The Seventh Principle:Do not engage in unnecessary confrontation.This principle is derived from the treaty of Hudaybiyyah. At that time, the unbelievers were determined to engage Muslims in fighting, because they were in an advantageous position. But the Prophet , by accepting their conditions unilaterally, entered into a pact. It was a ten-year peace treaty. Until then, the meeting ground between Muslims and non-Muslims had been on the battlefield. Now the area of conflict became that of ideological debate. Within two years, Islam emerged as victorious because of the simple reason of its ideological superiority.The Eighth Principle:Gradualism instead of radicalism. This principle is well-established by a Hadith quoted in Bukhari. A'ishah says that the first verses of the Qur'an were related mostly to Heaven and Hell. After some time when faith had taken hold in peoples hearts, God revealed specific commands to desist from unjust and self-deprecating social practices that were prevalent in the Arabian dark ages. This is a clear proof that for social changes, Islam advocates the evolutionary method, rather than the revolutionary method.The Ninth Principle:Be pragmatic in controversial matters. During the writing of the Hudaybiyyah treaty, the Prophet dictated these words: 'This is from Muhammad, the Messenger of God.' The Qurayshan delegate raised objections over these words. The Prophet promptly ordered the words to be changed to 'Muhammad, son of Abdullah'. This simple change placated the Qurayshan delegate.These are just some of the principles by which the Prophet of Islam conducted his life. His achievements have been recognized by historians as the supreme success. We would be wise to live by following his example.You have indeed in the Messenger of God a beautiful pattern (of conduct) for any one whose hope is in God and the Final Day .. (Quran 33:21) Adapted from the "Principles of Success in the Light of Sirah" by Wahiduddin Khan - Renaissance Islamic Journal
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Friday, April 17, 2009
The Unique Gift of Life
From: www.islamicity.com
By: Dr. Maher Hathout
The following is excerpted from the book "Islam 2.0" by Dr. Maher Hathout in which he shares a conversation with the Muslim youth.
Your life is a very precious gift from God. Count back to one year before your first birthday, and then try to imagine your state - your state of nothingness. You can not. You may be able to contain and grasp "things," not "nothing." You were born and came to life, not because you wanted to, but because you became. Through a decision by an authority higher than you, and through a process that you did not participate in, you came to occupy a place in existence.
With the dramatic event of your birth, you came to life with three huge realities.
First, you are unique. Nobody else is identical to you, not even your identical twin or, in this age of cloning, even your clone, because your psychological, spiritual and energetic content is poured into your physical being in a unique way. When God blows a spirit into each individual, it manifests in a special way. You are one of a kind.
Second, you are immortal. Your biological structure, which is the product of the substance of earth, will degrade and recycle in the biological cycle on earth, but your energy, soul and spirit will always be. If you appreciate your uniqueness and your immortality, your individual values, responsibility and accountability will emerge. God reminds us in the Qur'an that;"[And God shall say.'] "And now, indeed, you have come unto Us in a lonely state, even as We created you in the first instance,' and you have left behind you, all that We bestowed on you [in your lifetime]. And we do not see with you those intercessors of yours whom you supposed to have a share in Gods divinity with regard to yourselves! Indeed, all the bonds between you [and your earthly life] are now severed, and all your former fancies have forsaken you!" (6:94)"and every one of them will appear before Him on Resurrection Day in a lonely state. " (19:95)
The third reality that comes with the happy event of your birth is a cobweb of expanding circles of relationships. These are different from the countless relationships you acquire throughout your life, such as your friends, neighbors, teammates, and spouses. The first package of relationships that come with your birth day are not subject to your choice; you do not choose your parents, siblings, kin, ancestors, race, gender, place of birth or even country of origin. This category of relationships is a gift form God, you accept, appreciate, and nurture. While the acquired relationships like spouse, friends, and career need prudence.
While you will inevitably gain and lose, everything you lose may be regained, except one thing, time.
It is interesting that you probably know the exact time, date and place of when and where your birth took place, but this is only because you were told about it. What is less clear is the elusive and mystical moment you truly became aware of your existence. This blurry time, when you became cognizant that you are you, and that you actually exist, just snuck up on you. From the moment of that realization, each individual experiences life in a unique way. While you may be exposed to the same circumstances as many others, how you feel, perceive, taste, understand and react to life circumstances is unique to you.
During the predetermined length of your life, you embark on new information, experiences, and habits in which you learn and perform as a human on this planet. While you will inevitably gain and lose, everything you lose may be regained, except one thing, time. If you lose time, it is gone. Any period of time is a chunk of life, both precious and irretrievable. Based on these simple realities, you will have some basic decisions to make: Are you going to waste your life or are you going to use it? Is your life going to center around you or will you reach wider spheres of involvement and concern? Wasting life partially or totally, i.e. in one lump or in installments, all can be considered a crime close to murder or suicide, even if the gradual waste does not seem that dramatic.
There are many forms and ways to waste a lifetime. With a careful look around you, you can recognize many of them: leading an aimless and purposeless life; abusing your own body, mind and soul; eroding the environment, being shallow and inefficient; all are ways to let the wonderful opportunity that we call life slip away. A life centered on your own self is selfish and never provides fulfillment. Since human beings are interdependent, you will not be happy if surrounded by unhappiness, envy, and animosity. A life that is not dedicated to a higher cause is an elusive quest for unattainable happiness.
There are three elements to what may be described as a happy life:
a life that is fully utilized (i.e. a life of awareness and purposeful activism),
a life that is dedicated to a higher cause,
and a life that is lived in balance.
The concept of balance is very important because an imbalanced life is one that is not in harmony with the laws of nature or existence. Nature is in perfect balance and is all around us, from the orbits to the galaxies to the structure of molecules and atoms to the diversity of species to the physiology within any unit of these species. A simple example which demonstrates this point lies within your own body. Anatomically, you are a fusion of two halves in balance (eyes, ears, nostrils, limbs). The right and left brain are distinct but, through their connection, maintain balanced performance. Perfect balance further exists between the muscles of flexion and extension, the structure of your skeleton, and in the miraculous work of the endocrinal and hormonal system.
The balance that exists between the spiritual and moral, through the soul, body, and intellect, gives you the ability to see and recognize the fine lines in behavior, that if crossed, will lead to imbalance. The line that exists between courage and recklessness, caution and cowardice, saving and stinginess, honesty and rudeness, generosity and squandering, pride and arrogance.
Conversely, injustice, encroachment on the rights of others, bias and double standards all act to tilt the scale of balance and run contrary to the laws of existence and the nature of creation as manifested in the large and small creatures within the kingdom of God. God says in the Qur'an:"And the skies.' has He raised high and has devised [for all things] a measure so that you [too, 0 humanity,] might never transgress the measure [of what is right].' weigh, therefore, [your deeds] with equity, and cut not the measure short!" (55:7-9)
Within this framework of understanding and appreciation of the simple unadulterated nature of life and creation lies the true understanding of Islam. Islam is the affirmation of these basics. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) described the religion as "Deen al Fitra,Ó" meaning the way of the unadulterated original nature and as the Qur'an described:"And do, set thy face steadfastly towards the [one ever-true] faith, turning away from all that is false, in accordance with the natural disposition which God has instilled into humanity.' [for] not to allow any change to corrupt what God has thus created - this is the [purpose of the one] ever-true faith,' but most people know it not."(30:30)
Through integrating these basic realities of life with the message of God and His call to comply to His will - which is manifested in His natural laws of existence in its universality, global humanity and harmony as comprehensive, internal, and external peace - that you can become a Muslim, citizen of the world, mercy to all, guardian of justice, supporter and enjoiner of what is good, opposer of what is evil, and promoter of human dignity for all.
Only then can you cooperate with those who seek righteousness and awareness. Only then will Islam be your zone of comfort, will you come home to Islam, feel complete harmony and be liberated not shackled, lightened not burdened, natural not artificial. Only then will your life as a Muslim be to enjoy not endure, allowing you to be yourselves, not a facade.
So for the Human Race, We May Say: Happy Birthday!
Maher Hathout is a leading spokesperson for the American Muslim community, is a retired physician best known for his tireless commitment to public service. He is also the author of "In Pursuit of Justice: The Jurisprudence of Human Rights in Islam" and Jihad vs Terrorism. He serves as the senior advisor to the Muslim Public Affairs Council (MPAC)
By: Dr. Maher Hathout
The following is excerpted from the book "Islam 2.0" by Dr. Maher Hathout in which he shares a conversation with the Muslim youth.
Your life is a very precious gift from God. Count back to one year before your first birthday, and then try to imagine your state - your state of nothingness. You can not. You may be able to contain and grasp "things," not "nothing." You were born and came to life, not because you wanted to, but because you became. Through a decision by an authority higher than you, and through a process that you did not participate in, you came to occupy a place in existence.
With the dramatic event of your birth, you came to life with three huge realities.
First, you are unique. Nobody else is identical to you, not even your identical twin or, in this age of cloning, even your clone, because your psychological, spiritual and energetic content is poured into your physical being in a unique way. When God blows a spirit into each individual, it manifests in a special way. You are one of a kind.
Second, you are immortal. Your biological structure, which is the product of the substance of earth, will degrade and recycle in the biological cycle on earth, but your energy, soul and spirit will always be. If you appreciate your uniqueness and your immortality, your individual values, responsibility and accountability will emerge. God reminds us in the Qur'an that;"[And God shall say.'] "And now, indeed, you have come unto Us in a lonely state, even as We created you in the first instance,' and you have left behind you, all that We bestowed on you [in your lifetime]. And we do not see with you those intercessors of yours whom you supposed to have a share in Gods divinity with regard to yourselves! Indeed, all the bonds between you [and your earthly life] are now severed, and all your former fancies have forsaken you!" (6:94)"and every one of them will appear before Him on Resurrection Day in a lonely state. " (19:95)
The third reality that comes with the happy event of your birth is a cobweb of expanding circles of relationships. These are different from the countless relationships you acquire throughout your life, such as your friends, neighbors, teammates, and spouses. The first package of relationships that come with your birth day are not subject to your choice; you do not choose your parents, siblings, kin, ancestors, race, gender, place of birth or even country of origin. This category of relationships is a gift form God, you accept, appreciate, and nurture. While the acquired relationships like spouse, friends, and career need prudence.
While you will inevitably gain and lose, everything you lose may be regained, except one thing, time.
It is interesting that you probably know the exact time, date and place of when and where your birth took place, but this is only because you were told about it. What is less clear is the elusive and mystical moment you truly became aware of your existence. This blurry time, when you became cognizant that you are you, and that you actually exist, just snuck up on you. From the moment of that realization, each individual experiences life in a unique way. While you may be exposed to the same circumstances as many others, how you feel, perceive, taste, understand and react to life circumstances is unique to you.
During the predetermined length of your life, you embark on new information, experiences, and habits in which you learn and perform as a human on this planet. While you will inevitably gain and lose, everything you lose may be regained, except one thing, time. If you lose time, it is gone. Any period of time is a chunk of life, both precious and irretrievable. Based on these simple realities, you will have some basic decisions to make: Are you going to waste your life or are you going to use it? Is your life going to center around you or will you reach wider spheres of involvement and concern? Wasting life partially or totally, i.e. in one lump or in installments, all can be considered a crime close to murder or suicide, even if the gradual waste does not seem that dramatic.
There are many forms and ways to waste a lifetime. With a careful look around you, you can recognize many of them: leading an aimless and purposeless life; abusing your own body, mind and soul; eroding the environment, being shallow and inefficient; all are ways to let the wonderful opportunity that we call life slip away. A life centered on your own self is selfish and never provides fulfillment. Since human beings are interdependent, you will not be happy if surrounded by unhappiness, envy, and animosity. A life that is not dedicated to a higher cause is an elusive quest for unattainable happiness.
There are three elements to what may be described as a happy life:
a life that is fully utilized (i.e. a life of awareness and purposeful activism),
a life that is dedicated to a higher cause,
and a life that is lived in balance.
The concept of balance is very important because an imbalanced life is one that is not in harmony with the laws of nature or existence. Nature is in perfect balance and is all around us, from the orbits to the galaxies to the structure of molecules and atoms to the diversity of species to the physiology within any unit of these species. A simple example which demonstrates this point lies within your own body. Anatomically, you are a fusion of two halves in balance (eyes, ears, nostrils, limbs). The right and left brain are distinct but, through their connection, maintain balanced performance. Perfect balance further exists between the muscles of flexion and extension, the structure of your skeleton, and in the miraculous work of the endocrinal and hormonal system.
The balance that exists between the spiritual and moral, through the soul, body, and intellect, gives you the ability to see and recognize the fine lines in behavior, that if crossed, will lead to imbalance. The line that exists between courage and recklessness, caution and cowardice, saving and stinginess, honesty and rudeness, generosity and squandering, pride and arrogance.
Conversely, injustice, encroachment on the rights of others, bias and double standards all act to tilt the scale of balance and run contrary to the laws of existence and the nature of creation as manifested in the large and small creatures within the kingdom of God. God says in the Qur'an:"And the skies.' has He raised high and has devised [for all things] a measure so that you [too, 0 humanity,] might never transgress the measure [of what is right].' weigh, therefore, [your deeds] with equity, and cut not the measure short!" (55:7-9)
Within this framework of understanding and appreciation of the simple unadulterated nature of life and creation lies the true understanding of Islam. Islam is the affirmation of these basics. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) described the religion as "Deen al Fitra,Ó" meaning the way of the unadulterated original nature and as the Qur'an described:"And do, set thy face steadfastly towards the [one ever-true] faith, turning away from all that is false, in accordance with the natural disposition which God has instilled into humanity.' [for] not to allow any change to corrupt what God has thus created - this is the [purpose of the one] ever-true faith,' but most people know it not."(30:30)
Through integrating these basic realities of life with the message of God and His call to comply to His will - which is manifested in His natural laws of existence in its universality, global humanity and harmony as comprehensive, internal, and external peace - that you can become a Muslim, citizen of the world, mercy to all, guardian of justice, supporter and enjoiner of what is good, opposer of what is evil, and promoter of human dignity for all.
Only then can you cooperate with those who seek righteousness and awareness. Only then will Islam be your zone of comfort, will you come home to Islam, feel complete harmony and be liberated not shackled, lightened not burdened, natural not artificial. Only then will your life as a Muslim be to enjoy not endure, allowing you to be yourselves, not a facade.
So for the Human Race, We May Say: Happy Birthday!
Maher Hathout is a leading spokesperson for the American Muslim community, is a retired physician best known for his tireless commitment to public service. He is also the author of "In Pursuit of Justice: The Jurisprudence of Human Rights in Islam" and Jihad vs Terrorism. He serves as the senior advisor to the Muslim Public Affairs Council (MPAC)
Thursday, April 16, 2009
The ICNA-MAS 34th Annual Convention being held May 23 -25, 2009 at the Hartford Convention Center in Hartford
There are more reasons than ever to attend the ICNA-MAS 34th Annual Convention being held May 23 -25, 2009 at the Hartford Convention Center in Hartford, Connecticut. This year’s theme is “Global Crisis — Islamic Solution”. Ultimately a global crisis requires a global solution. Find out what Islam can offer to stabilize the global turmoil.
The convention puts you in front of world renowned scholars with solutions designed specifically to address the crisis American Muslims are facing today. A weekend at the ICNA-MAS convention will put at your fingertips a holistic view of today’s most challenging issues and insight into Islamic Solutions.
Discover innovative ways to prepare for today’s challenges at the ultimate information exchange. Whether you’re a novice or guru, customer or partner, you will benefit from a total immersion in this world of information.
Learn directly from Islamic scholars and experts from various disciplines including, religion, economics, finance, social work, child psychology, law, education, and many more. The ICNA-MAS convention offers over 50+ breakout sessions and a comprehensive agenda that includes keynotes, lectures, hands-on workshops, interfaith dialogue, matrimonial services, halal food, cultural bazaar and even Islamic entertainment.
Challenge your Islamic knowledge and expertise with a wide array of thought provoking topics and break-out sessions ranging from novice to expert.Explore the cultural bazaar with over 220+ exhibitors in the pavilion, featuring books, hijaabs, clothing, Islamic CD’s and much more at discount prices.
Connect with tens of thousands of your Muslim brothers and sisters from all over America who participate every year in this colossal event.
Hurry! Time is running out for early-bird registration to receive a 15% discount! Register by May 14 to avoid long lines and receive your registration badges in the mail.
A view of the beautiful city of Hartford
This Year’s Spotlight
Topics Include:
· Financial and Economic Turmoil
· Social and Environmental Issues
· Civil Rights and Media
· Parallel Youth and Sister Sessions
· Community Development
· Spiritual Development
· Programs in Ethnic Languages
· ...and much much more!!!
For more information visit www.icnaconvention.org or call 718-658-1199 ext 127
The convention puts you in front of world renowned scholars with solutions designed specifically to address the crisis American Muslims are facing today. A weekend at the ICNA-MAS convention will put at your fingertips a holistic view of today’s most challenging issues and insight into Islamic Solutions.
Discover innovative ways to prepare for today’s challenges at the ultimate information exchange. Whether you’re a novice or guru, customer or partner, you will benefit from a total immersion in this world of information.
Learn directly from Islamic scholars and experts from various disciplines including, religion, economics, finance, social work, child psychology, law, education, and many more. The ICNA-MAS convention offers over 50+ breakout sessions and a comprehensive agenda that includes keynotes, lectures, hands-on workshops, interfaith dialogue, matrimonial services, halal food, cultural bazaar and even Islamic entertainment.
Challenge your Islamic knowledge and expertise with a wide array of thought provoking topics and break-out sessions ranging from novice to expert.Explore the cultural bazaar with over 220+ exhibitors in the pavilion, featuring books, hijaabs, clothing, Islamic CD’s and much more at discount prices.
Connect with tens of thousands of your Muslim brothers and sisters from all over America who participate every year in this colossal event.
Hurry! Time is running out for early-bird registration to receive a 15% discount! Register by May 14 to avoid long lines and receive your registration badges in the mail.
A view of the beautiful city of Hartford
This Year’s Spotlight
Topics Include:
· Financial and Economic Turmoil
· Social and Environmental Issues
· Civil Rights and Media
· Parallel Youth and Sister Sessions
· Community Development
· Spiritual Development
· Programs in Ethnic Languages
· ...and much much more!!!
For more information visit www.icnaconvention.org or call 718-658-1199 ext 127
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Tafsir of Surah an Naba - The News (Surah 78)
by Shaykh 'Abdur-Rahmân ibn Nâsir as-Sa'dî (d. 1383 AH / n/a CE)
Translated by Abû Rumaysah
The Seventy-Eighth Chapter The News
1) Concerning what are they asking each other? 2) Concerning the momentous News, 3) about which they are in disagreement. 4) Nay, but they will soon know! 5) Nay, again, but they will soon know!
“Concerning what are they asking each other?” about what are those who deny the Signs of Allāh asking each other? The answer is then clarified in His saying“Concerning the momentous News, about which they are in disagreement” about which they had lengthy debate and the discord of which had spread far and wide, this by way of denial and declaring the news to be highly unlikely. However this news is not something that is open to uncertainty and does not allow doubt to enter it. Therefore the reality is that those who deny the meeting with their Lord will never believe, even if every Sign comes to them, until they themselves see the Painful Punishment. “Nay, but they will soon know! Nay, again, but they will soon know!” they will soon know what they used to deny when the punishments descends upon them, that time when they are“flung (disdainfully) into the Fire of Hell”;[1] it will be said to them,“This is the Fire which you were wont to deny!”[2]
6) Have We not made the earth a leveled carpet, 7) and the mountains as pegs, 8) and We have created you in pairs, 9) and have appointed your sleep as a cessation,[*] 10) and have appointed the night as a cloak, 11) and have appointed the day for earning a livelihood, 12) and We have built above you seven mighty ones, 13) and placed (therein) a dazzling lamp, 14) and have sent down from the rain-laden clouds[**] abundant water; 15) that We may bring forth thereby grain and plant; 16) and gardens of luxurious growth?
* Another interpretation is, “as a means of stretching/distending.” [Qurţubi]
** Another interpretation is “and have sent down, resulting from wind (driving the clouds), abundant water.” [Abū Ĥayyān]
Then Allāh, Transcendent is He!, mentions His blessings and the evidences pointing to the truth of His Messengers. He says, “Have We not made the earth a leveled carpet,”have we not granted you magnificent blessings such as leveling the earth and making it subservient to you? Have we not subjected it to you that you may extract benefit from it of crops, residence, and roadways? “And the mountains as pegs,” making firm the earth so that it does not shake and sway under you. “And We have created you in pairs,” male and female, of the same type, that one may find rest with the other, that love and mercy may ensue as a result of which offspring are given birth; the pleasure in the act of marital relations being yet another blessing. “And have appointed your sleep as a cessation,”of your activities and a rest for you. “And have appointed the night as a cloak,”were man’s activity perpetual and unceasing, it would harm him, so Allāh appointed the night and sleep as a means to cover him such that his movement, which would end up harming him, may find stillness and that he may find respite. “And have appointed the day for earning a livelihood, and We have built above you seven mighty ones,”i.e. seven heavens, mighty, firm, unshakable. Allāh holds them up via His power, making them as a roof for the earth. They contain many benefits, amongst which is the sun: “and placed (therein) a dazzling lamp,”referring to it as “dazzling” to highlight its quality of light which is necessary for the existence of man and as “a lamp” to highlight its heat which is also beneficial for man. “And have sent down from the rain-laden clouds abundant water; that We may bring forth thereby grain”such as wheat, barley, rice, and other such edible produce, “and plant;” all types of plants which Allāh has made fodder for their animals. “And gardens of luxurious growth?”intertwined growth containing every type of delicious fruit.
The One who has granted these magnificent blessings, the extent of which none can hope to estimate let alone count… how can you disbelieve in Him? How can you deny what He informs you of with regards the Resurrection? How can you use His blessings to disobey Him and be ingrates?
17) Lo! the Day of Decision is fixed, 18) the Day when the trumpet is blown and you come in droves, 19) and the heaven is opened and becomes doorways, 20) and the mountains are set in motion and become as a mirage.
Allāh, Exalted is He, proceeds to mention what will occur on the Day of Judgment about which the deniers are asking each other and the obstinate deniers are rejecting. It is a momentous Day, “Lo! the Day of Decision is fixed,”for the creation. “The Day when the trumpet is blown and you come in droves, and the heaven is opened and becomes doorways, and the mountains are set in motion and become as a mirage,” during this Day such violent and terrifying events are set in motion as would turn white the hair of a babe and render hearts into utter confusion and dismay. Mountains will be shaken until they become “scattered dust”[3]; and the heaven will be rent asunder such that it “becomes doorways”. On that Day will Allāh judge between the creations with His judgment that cannot be wrong or unjust, and the Fire of Hell which Allāh has made a place of ambush and a homecoming for the transgressors will be kindled to a blaze.
21) Truly Hell is a place of ambush, 22) for the transgressors, a homecoming: 23) abiding therein for (countless) ages, 24) they taste not therein coolness[*] nor (any) drink 25) save boiling water and a scalding pus[‡]: 26) a fitting recompense. 27) Lo! They expected not a reckoning; 28) and they roundly denied Our revelations. 29) Everything have We recorded in a Book. 30) So taste! No increase do We give you save of torment.
* Another interpretation has “sleep/rest” in place of “coolness.” [Abū Ĥayyān]
‡ Another interpretation is, “paralysing cold” [al-Qurţubi]
“Truly Hell is a place of ambush, for the transgressors, a homecoming: abiding therein for (countless) ages,” meaning many many ages, and the meaning of “age (ĥaqb)” here, in the view of many exegetes, is eighty years. When they enter it, “they taste not therein coolness nor (any) drink,” receiving not that which would cool their skins nor quench their thirst. “Save boiling water” that would scald their faces and rip apart their stomachs “and a scalding pus:” the pus of the denizens of Hell: a truly vile liquid with a foul taste. This atrocious punishment is “a fitting recompense” for what they worked. Allāh will not wrong them in the slightest; rather it was they who wronged themselves. This is why Allāh proceeds to mention their deeds which made them deserving of this recompense, “Lo! They expected not a reckoning;” they did not believe in the Resurrection, or in the fact that Allāh would recompense the creation for the good and bad that they worked. For this reason they neglected to work for the Hereafter, “And they roundly denied Our revelations,” they clearly denied them, leaving no shadow of doubt that would indicate otherwise. The clear proofs came to them but they obstinately denied them. “Everything”small and large, insignificant and significant, good and evil, “have We recorded in a Book,” i.e. We have recorded it in the Preserved Tablet. Therefore let not the sinners think that We have punished them for sins they did not commit, neither let them think that any of their deeds will be lost or forgotten – not even an atoms weight!“And the Book is placed, and you will see the guilty fearful of that which is therein, and they say, ‘What kind of a Book is this that leaves not a small thing nor a great thing but takes account thereof!’ And they find all that they did confronting them, and your Lord wrongs no-one.”[4] “So taste!” O deniers, this painful punishment and perpetual anguish. “No increase do We give you save of torment,” each period of time brings with it an increase in punishment. This verse is one of the most severest verses depicting the punishment of the Fire, may Allāh save us from it.
31) Lo! for those who ward off (evil) is triumph – 32) Gardens enclosed and vineyards, 33) and nubile maidens of equal age, 34) and an overflowing cup. 35) They hear not therein vain discourse, nor falsehood – 36) a recompense from your Lord; a gift, (amply) sufficient. 37) Lord of the heavens and the earth, and all that is between them, the All-Merciful; with Whom they have no ability to converse.
After having mentioned the state of the sinners, Allāh mentions the end of those with taqwā, “Lo! for those who ward off (evil) is triumph,“i.e. those who ward off the displeasure of their Lord by adhering firmly to His obedience and avoid disobeying Him, for them is success and victory, and distance from the Fire. Amongst this victory is, “Gardens enclosed,” containing all types of luscious vegetation giving forth fruit, “and vineyards,” with rivers sprouting from them. Grapes have been specifically mentioned because of their excellence and because they are present in plenitude in those Gardens. “And nubile maidens,”full breasted women whose bosom never loses its firmness, eternally youthful and beautiful “of equal age,” i.e. of one age. The norm for people who are “atrāb” is that they be sociable and companionable, their age is thirty-three and this age is the peak of youth. “And an overflowing cup,” with the choicest wine,“delicious to the drinkers”.[5 ] “They hear not therein vain discourse,” words that contain no benefit, “nor falsehood” words calling to sin. Allāh says,“There hear they no vain speaking or sinful discourse.”[6 ]
Allāh gave them this magnificent reward out of His beneficence and grace, “A recompense from your Lord; a gift, (amply) sufficient,” by reason of their deeds which Allāh guided them to and made to be a cause leading to His grace. He is their Lord, “Lord of the heavens and the earth, and all that is between them,” Who created them and regulated them, “the All-Merciful;” whose mercy extends to everything. Hence He nurtured them and extended His mercy to them until they attained this state of felicity. Then He mentioned His greatness and His Kingship on the Day of Judgment, “with Whom they have no ability to converse,” except “for whom the All-Merciful allows and who speaks right.” Therefore none will be able to speak unless he meets these two pre-requisites: Allāh grants him leave to speak and he speaks right. This is because “That is the True Day,” the day when falsehood cannot be circulated and lying is of no benefit.
38) That Day when the Spirit and the angels will stand arrayed. They speak not, save him whom the All-Merciful allows and who speaks right. 39) That is the True Day. So whoever wills should seek a way back unto his Lord. 40) Lo! We have warned you of a punishment at hand, a Day whereon a man will look to that which his own hands have sent before him, and the disbeliever will cry, “Would that I were dust!”
“That Day when the Spirit,” Jibrīl, the best of the angels “and the angels will stand arrayed,” submissively before Allāh. “They speak not, save him whom the All-Merciful allows and who speaks right.”After having encouraged, and discouraged, and given glad-tidings, and warned, He says, “That is the True Day. So whoever wills should seek a way back unto his Lord,”with deeds and a truthful footing to which he can recourse on the Day of Judgment. “Lo! We have warned you of a punishment at hand,”because it is approaching and everything that is approaching is at hand. “A Day whereon a man will look to that which his own hands have sent before him,” being concerned with it and being terrified of it. So look in this abode to what you are preparing for the Eternal Abode!“O you who believe! Observe your duty to Allāh and let every soul look to that which it sends on before for the morrow. And observe your duty to Allāh, Lo! Allāh is well-informed of what you do.”[7] Then, whoever finds good, let him praise Allāh, and whoever finds other than that, he has none to blame but himself. It is for this reason that the disbelievers will wish for death by reason of their extreme sorrow and anguish, “and the disbeliever will cry, ‘Would that I were dust!’”
We ask Allāh that He deliver us from disbelief and all evil. He is the Bestower of Good, the Kind.
1 52:13
2 52:14
3 56:6
4 18:49
5 47:15
6 56:25
7 59:18
Translated by Abû Rumaysah
The Seventy-Eighth Chapter The News
1) Concerning what are they asking each other? 2) Concerning the momentous News, 3) about which they are in disagreement. 4) Nay, but they will soon know! 5) Nay, again, but they will soon know!
“Concerning what are they asking each other?” about what are those who deny the Signs of Allāh asking each other? The answer is then clarified in His saying“Concerning the momentous News, about which they are in disagreement” about which they had lengthy debate and the discord of which had spread far and wide, this by way of denial and declaring the news to be highly unlikely. However this news is not something that is open to uncertainty and does not allow doubt to enter it. Therefore the reality is that those who deny the meeting with their Lord will never believe, even if every Sign comes to them, until they themselves see the Painful Punishment. “Nay, but they will soon know! Nay, again, but they will soon know!” they will soon know what they used to deny when the punishments descends upon them, that time when they are“flung (disdainfully) into the Fire of Hell”;[1] it will be said to them,“This is the Fire which you were wont to deny!”[2]
6) Have We not made the earth a leveled carpet, 7) and the mountains as pegs, 8) and We have created you in pairs, 9) and have appointed your sleep as a cessation,[*] 10) and have appointed the night as a cloak, 11) and have appointed the day for earning a livelihood, 12) and We have built above you seven mighty ones, 13) and placed (therein) a dazzling lamp, 14) and have sent down from the rain-laden clouds[**] abundant water; 15) that We may bring forth thereby grain and plant; 16) and gardens of luxurious growth?
* Another interpretation is, “as a means of stretching/distending.” [Qurţubi]
** Another interpretation is “and have sent down, resulting from wind (driving the clouds), abundant water.” [Abū Ĥayyān]
Then Allāh, Transcendent is He!, mentions His blessings and the evidences pointing to the truth of His Messengers. He says, “Have We not made the earth a leveled carpet,”have we not granted you magnificent blessings such as leveling the earth and making it subservient to you? Have we not subjected it to you that you may extract benefit from it of crops, residence, and roadways? “And the mountains as pegs,” making firm the earth so that it does not shake and sway under you. “And We have created you in pairs,” male and female, of the same type, that one may find rest with the other, that love and mercy may ensue as a result of which offspring are given birth; the pleasure in the act of marital relations being yet another blessing. “And have appointed your sleep as a cessation,”of your activities and a rest for you. “And have appointed the night as a cloak,”were man’s activity perpetual and unceasing, it would harm him, so Allāh appointed the night and sleep as a means to cover him such that his movement, which would end up harming him, may find stillness and that he may find respite. “And have appointed the day for earning a livelihood, and We have built above you seven mighty ones,”i.e. seven heavens, mighty, firm, unshakable. Allāh holds them up via His power, making them as a roof for the earth. They contain many benefits, amongst which is the sun: “and placed (therein) a dazzling lamp,”referring to it as “dazzling” to highlight its quality of light which is necessary for the existence of man and as “a lamp” to highlight its heat which is also beneficial for man. “And have sent down from the rain-laden clouds abundant water; that We may bring forth thereby grain”such as wheat, barley, rice, and other such edible produce, “and plant;” all types of plants which Allāh has made fodder for their animals. “And gardens of luxurious growth?”intertwined growth containing every type of delicious fruit.
The One who has granted these magnificent blessings, the extent of which none can hope to estimate let alone count… how can you disbelieve in Him? How can you deny what He informs you of with regards the Resurrection? How can you use His blessings to disobey Him and be ingrates?
17) Lo! the Day of Decision is fixed, 18) the Day when the trumpet is blown and you come in droves, 19) and the heaven is opened and becomes doorways, 20) and the mountains are set in motion and become as a mirage.
Allāh, Exalted is He, proceeds to mention what will occur on the Day of Judgment about which the deniers are asking each other and the obstinate deniers are rejecting. It is a momentous Day, “Lo! the Day of Decision is fixed,”for the creation. “The Day when the trumpet is blown and you come in droves, and the heaven is opened and becomes doorways, and the mountains are set in motion and become as a mirage,” during this Day such violent and terrifying events are set in motion as would turn white the hair of a babe and render hearts into utter confusion and dismay. Mountains will be shaken until they become “scattered dust”[3]; and the heaven will be rent asunder such that it “becomes doorways”. On that Day will Allāh judge between the creations with His judgment that cannot be wrong or unjust, and the Fire of Hell which Allāh has made a place of ambush and a homecoming for the transgressors will be kindled to a blaze.
21) Truly Hell is a place of ambush, 22) for the transgressors, a homecoming: 23) abiding therein for (countless) ages, 24) they taste not therein coolness[*] nor (any) drink 25) save boiling water and a scalding pus[‡]: 26) a fitting recompense. 27) Lo! They expected not a reckoning; 28) and they roundly denied Our revelations. 29) Everything have We recorded in a Book. 30) So taste! No increase do We give you save of torment.
* Another interpretation has “sleep/rest” in place of “coolness.” [Abū Ĥayyān]
‡ Another interpretation is, “paralysing cold” [al-Qurţubi]
“Truly Hell is a place of ambush, for the transgressors, a homecoming: abiding therein for (countless) ages,” meaning many many ages, and the meaning of “age (ĥaqb)” here, in the view of many exegetes, is eighty years. When they enter it, “they taste not therein coolness nor (any) drink,” receiving not that which would cool their skins nor quench their thirst. “Save boiling water” that would scald their faces and rip apart their stomachs “and a scalding pus:” the pus of the denizens of Hell: a truly vile liquid with a foul taste. This atrocious punishment is “a fitting recompense” for what they worked. Allāh will not wrong them in the slightest; rather it was they who wronged themselves. This is why Allāh proceeds to mention their deeds which made them deserving of this recompense, “Lo! They expected not a reckoning;” they did not believe in the Resurrection, or in the fact that Allāh would recompense the creation for the good and bad that they worked. For this reason they neglected to work for the Hereafter, “And they roundly denied Our revelations,” they clearly denied them, leaving no shadow of doubt that would indicate otherwise. The clear proofs came to them but they obstinately denied them. “Everything”small and large, insignificant and significant, good and evil, “have We recorded in a Book,” i.e. We have recorded it in the Preserved Tablet. Therefore let not the sinners think that We have punished them for sins they did not commit, neither let them think that any of their deeds will be lost or forgotten – not even an atoms weight!“And the Book is placed, and you will see the guilty fearful of that which is therein, and they say, ‘What kind of a Book is this that leaves not a small thing nor a great thing but takes account thereof!’ And they find all that they did confronting them, and your Lord wrongs no-one.”[4] “So taste!” O deniers, this painful punishment and perpetual anguish. “No increase do We give you save of torment,” each period of time brings with it an increase in punishment. This verse is one of the most severest verses depicting the punishment of the Fire, may Allāh save us from it.
31) Lo! for those who ward off (evil) is triumph – 32) Gardens enclosed and vineyards, 33) and nubile maidens of equal age, 34) and an overflowing cup. 35) They hear not therein vain discourse, nor falsehood – 36) a recompense from your Lord; a gift, (amply) sufficient. 37) Lord of the heavens and the earth, and all that is between them, the All-Merciful; with Whom they have no ability to converse.
After having mentioned the state of the sinners, Allāh mentions the end of those with taqwā, “Lo! for those who ward off (evil) is triumph,“i.e. those who ward off the displeasure of their Lord by adhering firmly to His obedience and avoid disobeying Him, for them is success and victory, and distance from the Fire. Amongst this victory is, “Gardens enclosed,” containing all types of luscious vegetation giving forth fruit, “and vineyards,” with rivers sprouting from them. Grapes have been specifically mentioned because of their excellence and because they are present in plenitude in those Gardens. “And nubile maidens,”full breasted women whose bosom never loses its firmness, eternally youthful and beautiful “of equal age,” i.e. of one age. The norm for people who are “atrāb” is that they be sociable and companionable, their age is thirty-three and this age is the peak of youth. “And an overflowing cup,” with the choicest wine,“delicious to the drinkers”.[5 ] “They hear not therein vain discourse,” words that contain no benefit, “nor falsehood” words calling to sin. Allāh says,“There hear they no vain speaking or sinful discourse.”[6 ]
Allāh gave them this magnificent reward out of His beneficence and grace, “A recompense from your Lord; a gift, (amply) sufficient,” by reason of their deeds which Allāh guided them to and made to be a cause leading to His grace. He is their Lord, “Lord of the heavens and the earth, and all that is between them,” Who created them and regulated them, “the All-Merciful;” whose mercy extends to everything. Hence He nurtured them and extended His mercy to them until they attained this state of felicity. Then He mentioned His greatness and His Kingship on the Day of Judgment, “with Whom they have no ability to converse,” except “for whom the All-Merciful allows and who speaks right.” Therefore none will be able to speak unless he meets these two pre-requisites: Allāh grants him leave to speak and he speaks right. This is because “That is the True Day,” the day when falsehood cannot be circulated and lying is of no benefit.
38) That Day when the Spirit and the angels will stand arrayed. They speak not, save him whom the All-Merciful allows and who speaks right. 39) That is the True Day. So whoever wills should seek a way back unto his Lord. 40) Lo! We have warned you of a punishment at hand, a Day whereon a man will look to that which his own hands have sent before him, and the disbeliever will cry, “Would that I were dust!”
“That Day when the Spirit,” Jibrīl, the best of the angels “and the angels will stand arrayed,” submissively before Allāh. “They speak not, save him whom the All-Merciful allows and who speaks right.”After having encouraged, and discouraged, and given glad-tidings, and warned, He says, “That is the True Day. So whoever wills should seek a way back unto his Lord,”with deeds and a truthful footing to which he can recourse on the Day of Judgment. “Lo! We have warned you of a punishment at hand,”because it is approaching and everything that is approaching is at hand. “A Day whereon a man will look to that which his own hands have sent before him,” being concerned with it and being terrified of it. So look in this abode to what you are preparing for the Eternal Abode!“O you who believe! Observe your duty to Allāh and let every soul look to that which it sends on before for the morrow. And observe your duty to Allāh, Lo! Allāh is well-informed of what you do.”[7] Then, whoever finds good, let him praise Allāh, and whoever finds other than that, he has none to blame but himself. It is for this reason that the disbelievers will wish for death by reason of their extreme sorrow and anguish, “and the disbeliever will cry, ‘Would that I were dust!’”
We ask Allāh that He deliver us from disbelief and all evil. He is the Bestower of Good, the Kind.
1 52:13
2 52:14
3 56:6
4 18:49
5 47:15
6 56:25
7 59:18
GOP accuses Obama of ‘groveling’ to Saudi King
GOP accuses Obama of ‘groveling’ to Saudi King
From CNN Political Editor Mark Preston
The NRSC has unveiled an ad that accuses the president of bowing before the Saudis.
WASHINGTON (CNN) — The campaign arm for Republican senators is soliciting donations in a new national Web ad that accuses President Barack Obama of bowing to Saudi Arabia King Abdullah during the recent G-20 Summit.
The ad, which appeared on the Drudge Report Friday and scheduled to run for several days, shows a picture of Obama greeting Abdullah at the summit with the headline: Should America Bow to a King?
Readers are asked to click on the “Yes” or “No” button on the ad and it directs them to a Web page where they are then asked to contribute or provide a name and e-mail address to the National Republican Senatorial Committee.
“Should the president of the world’s pre-eminent superpower be groveling at the feet of a Saudi King,” the NRSC asks visitors, who are also able to watch a short FOX News clip of former House Speaker Newt Gingrich knocking the White House for denying that Obama bowed to Abdullah.
“Well, I think he bent over with both – to shake with both hands to shake his hand,” Press Secretary Robert Gibbs said on Thursday. When asked again if Obama bowed, Gibbs answered “No.”
In addition to the Web ad, the NRSC e-mailed political supporters Thursday stating the same criticism.
"In light of the bizarre denial from the White House, the NRSC is simply presenting two questions to the American people: Do they believe the White House's explanation that this was not a bow? And if they don't, do they think it's appropriate for the leader of the free world to be bowing to the King of Saudi Arabia?” NRSC spokesman Brian Walsh said to CNN. “It's not an attack ad - it's simply raising a fair question."
Walsh also told CNN that in just a few hours of the Web ad appearing on the Drudge Report more than 4,000 people have provided the NRSC with their email addresses.
From CNN Political Editor Mark Preston
The NRSC has unveiled an ad that accuses the president of bowing before the Saudis.
WASHINGTON (CNN) — The campaign arm for Republican senators is soliciting donations in a new national Web ad that accuses President Barack Obama of bowing to Saudi Arabia King Abdullah during the recent G-20 Summit.
The ad, which appeared on the Drudge Report Friday and scheduled to run for several days, shows a picture of Obama greeting Abdullah at the summit with the headline: Should America Bow to a King?
Readers are asked to click on the “Yes” or “No” button on the ad and it directs them to a Web page where they are then asked to contribute or provide a name and e-mail address to the National Republican Senatorial Committee.
“Should the president of the world’s pre-eminent superpower be groveling at the feet of a Saudi King,” the NRSC asks visitors, who are also able to watch a short FOX News clip of former House Speaker Newt Gingrich knocking the White House for denying that Obama bowed to Abdullah.
“Well, I think he bent over with both – to shake with both hands to shake his hand,” Press Secretary Robert Gibbs said on Thursday. When asked again if Obama bowed, Gibbs answered “No.”
In addition to the Web ad, the NRSC e-mailed political supporters Thursday stating the same criticism.
"In light of the bizarre denial from the White House, the NRSC is simply presenting two questions to the American people: Do they believe the White House's explanation that this was not a bow? And if they don't, do they think it's appropriate for the leader of the free world to be bowing to the King of Saudi Arabia?” NRSC spokesman Brian Walsh said to CNN. “It's not an attack ad - it's simply raising a fair question."
Walsh also told CNN that in just a few hours of the Web ad appearing on the Drudge Report more than 4,000 people have provided the NRSC with their email addresses.
Iran's Elections: Why Arab Leaders Want Ahmadinejad to Win
From: http://www.islamicity.com/
By RANNIE AMIRI
Iran’s presidential elections are scheduled for June 12. Although yet to formally declare his candidacy, incumbent president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad is fully expected to seek re-election. While the “Principalist” coalition thus seems settled on fielding a single candidate, the contest to head the “Reformist” list has proven much more dynamic.
Long assumed to be Ahmadinejad’s primary rival, former president Mohammad Khatami abruptly announced his withdrawal from the race so as not to split the vote between himself and the other reformist candidates – influential and popular former prime minister Mir-Hossein Mousavi, and former parliament speaker Mehdi Karroubi. Additionally, Khatami felt conservatives would be more likely to vote for Mousavi than himself.
“Rest assured that Mousavi will recruit a remarkable percentage of votes from the other side. I have reports that some conservatives will not vote for me and this guy [Ahmadinejad], but they would definitely vote for Mousavi,” he said.
By all measures, it was a selfless act to limit the chances that Ahmadinejad would be re-elected. Karroubi, under increasing pressure to likewise withdraw and unite reformists behind Mousavi, has declared he will remain in the race to the end.
Although it is true the final say in all of Iran’s political affairs rests with Ayatollah Khamenei, this does not make the position of president inconsequential, as the spirited campaign and endorsement or repudiation of candidates by influential persons bear witness. The choice of president is a reflection of the Iranian people’s will which, in turn, influences how Khamenei decides on important matters of state.
Indeed, the issues in the upcoming election are far-reaching and indicative of the great challenges Iran will face in the coming years. They include the effect of falling oil prices and double-digit unemployment and inflation; the need for civic reform; the role to be played in Middle East affairs, especially as it relates to Palestine and support for groups such as Hamas and Hezbollah; the ramifications of a possible rapprochement with the United States and obviously, the question of nuclear development.
The election will be closely watched in the Arab world, especially in countries exhibiting the most animus toward Iran, namely Egypt and Saudi Arabia (the latter broadly representative of the Arab Gulf nations with the exception of Qatar). One would surmise that they are hoping for a reprieve from Ahmadinejad’s bellicosity, as are many Iranians. That is, for a less controversial and more pragmatic, diplomatic and soft-spoken leader like Khatami (were he still in the race), Mousavi or Karroubi instead.
That however, is certainly not the case. What these nations’ rulers fear most is the election of a leader with exactly these qualities, regardless of who it may be.
In recent years, Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and now Morocco have found comfort in laying blame for their domestic and regional woes on Iran and their (perceived) allies. The fiery rhetoric of Ahmadinejad, whether pertinent or not, has undoubtedly helped bolster their case.This has taken shape in many forms, including accusing Iran of “cultural infiltration” as Morocco has recently done, importing the “Shiite ideology” to Egypt, and “interfering” in the internal affairs of Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. The latter is meant to redirect attention from a purely domestic issue – the fallout from longstanding discrimination against Bahraini and Saudi Shia Muslim citizens – abroad. Meanwhile, Egyptian president Hosni Mubarak seeks to ever legitimize his own rule by continuing to foment sectarianism.
These leaders also fear an Iranian president more amenable to overtures from the United States. A thawing of relations between the U.S. and Iran will render needless the monetary, military and diplomatic benefits that being guardians against “Iranian expansionism” bring.
The standing of many Arab rulers is now more than ever based on the politics of polarization. And there is little doubt that exploiting this polarization – upon which they are so dependent – will be facilitated if Ahmadinejad remains as Iran’s president. For this reason, they hope he emerges victorious in June.
Rannie Amiri is an independent Middle East commentator. He may be reached at: rbamiri at yahoo dot com.
By RANNIE AMIRI
Iran’s presidential elections are scheduled for June 12. Although yet to formally declare his candidacy, incumbent president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad is fully expected to seek re-election. While the “Principalist” coalition thus seems settled on fielding a single candidate, the contest to head the “Reformist” list has proven much more dynamic.
Long assumed to be Ahmadinejad’s primary rival, former president Mohammad Khatami abruptly announced his withdrawal from the race so as not to split the vote between himself and the other reformist candidates – influential and popular former prime minister Mir-Hossein Mousavi, and former parliament speaker Mehdi Karroubi. Additionally, Khatami felt conservatives would be more likely to vote for Mousavi than himself.
“Rest assured that Mousavi will recruit a remarkable percentage of votes from the other side. I have reports that some conservatives will not vote for me and this guy [Ahmadinejad], but they would definitely vote for Mousavi,” he said.
By all measures, it was a selfless act to limit the chances that Ahmadinejad would be re-elected. Karroubi, under increasing pressure to likewise withdraw and unite reformists behind Mousavi, has declared he will remain in the race to the end.
Although it is true the final say in all of Iran’s political affairs rests with Ayatollah Khamenei, this does not make the position of president inconsequential, as the spirited campaign and endorsement or repudiation of candidates by influential persons bear witness. The choice of president is a reflection of the Iranian people’s will which, in turn, influences how Khamenei decides on important matters of state.
Indeed, the issues in the upcoming election are far-reaching and indicative of the great challenges Iran will face in the coming years. They include the effect of falling oil prices and double-digit unemployment and inflation; the need for civic reform; the role to be played in Middle East affairs, especially as it relates to Palestine and support for groups such as Hamas and Hezbollah; the ramifications of a possible rapprochement with the United States and obviously, the question of nuclear development.
The election will be closely watched in the Arab world, especially in countries exhibiting the most animus toward Iran, namely Egypt and Saudi Arabia (the latter broadly representative of the Arab Gulf nations with the exception of Qatar). One would surmise that they are hoping for a reprieve from Ahmadinejad’s bellicosity, as are many Iranians. That is, for a less controversial and more pragmatic, diplomatic and soft-spoken leader like Khatami (were he still in the race), Mousavi or Karroubi instead.
That however, is certainly not the case. What these nations’ rulers fear most is the election of a leader with exactly these qualities, regardless of who it may be.
In recent years, Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and now Morocco have found comfort in laying blame for their domestic and regional woes on Iran and their (perceived) allies. The fiery rhetoric of Ahmadinejad, whether pertinent or not, has undoubtedly helped bolster their case.This has taken shape in many forms, including accusing Iran of “cultural infiltration” as Morocco has recently done, importing the “Shiite ideology” to Egypt, and “interfering” in the internal affairs of Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. The latter is meant to redirect attention from a purely domestic issue – the fallout from longstanding discrimination against Bahraini and Saudi Shia Muslim citizens – abroad. Meanwhile, Egyptian president Hosni Mubarak seeks to ever legitimize his own rule by continuing to foment sectarianism.
These leaders also fear an Iranian president more amenable to overtures from the United States. A thawing of relations between the U.S. and Iran will render needless the monetary, military and diplomatic benefits that being guardians against “Iranian expansionism” bring.
The standing of many Arab rulers is now more than ever based on the politics of polarization. And there is little doubt that exploiting this polarization – upon which they are so dependent – will be facilitated if Ahmadinejad remains as Iran’s president. For this reason, they hope he emerges victorious in June.
Rannie Amiri is an independent Middle East commentator. He may be reached at: rbamiri at yahoo dot com.
Insanity of robots
From: www.islamicity.com
By: Robert C. Koehler
As our warrior robot drones eradicate evil - or at least "militancy" - from above, the Suicide Army of the East vows to keep blowing itself up until we call them off.This is not the plot of a bad sci-fi thriller. It's page one of the New York Times, described, as ever, with a sober politeness that doesn't quite do justice to geo-insanity's latest thrilling mutation:"Despite threats of retaliation from Pakistani militants, senior administration officials said Monday that the United States intended to step up its use of drones to strike militants in Pakistan's tribal areas and might extend them to a different sanctuary deeper inside the country.
"On Sunday, a senior Taliban leader vowed to unleash two suicide attacks a week like one on Saturday in Pakistan's capital, Islamabad, unless the Central Intelligence Agency stopped firing missiles at militants."And by the way: "Pakistani officials have expressed concerns that the missile strikes from remotely piloted aircraft fuel more violence in the country, and some American officials say they are also concerned about some aspects of the drone strikes."What has ever mattered less to the war machine than "concerns" . . . that robot killers don't win friends, that violence, perhaps, is counterproductive? Women, children, collateral damage, blah blah blah. Sen. Carl Levin, Michigan Democrat, head of the Senate Armed Services Committee, good-guy-turned-war-enabler, "acknowledged," as the Times put it - or as I might say, channeled every morally compromised spokesperson who ever equivocated in the name of George Bush, Adolf Hitler or Attila the Hun - that "the price is very heavy." Now we know.But alas, as Levin went on to explain, drone-fired missiles are "an extremely effective tool." And really, they're no more than a technical update of the innovation that allowed the English to slaughter French noblemen at the battle of Crecy in 1346 and ushered in modern, impersonal warfare: the longbow. One difference is that the dead at Crecy were all soldiers.
In any case, "The principle . . . is action at a distance," Barbara Ehrenreich points out in "Blood Rites," her 1997 study of the roots of war. And action at a distance, as Sen. Levin could explain to you, has the advantage of allowing the heavy price to be paid only by the other side.To wit: "As many as 1 million people have fled their homes in the Tribal Areas to escape attacks by the unmanned spy planes as well as bombings by the Pakistani army," London's Sunday Times reports, describing the situation on the Af-Pak border as "a massive humanitarian emergency."
Our longbows are flattening villages. Furthermore, while "Pakistani forces say they have killed 1,500 militants since launching anti-Taliban operations in Bajaur (Pakistan) in August," the Sunday Times story continues, "locals who fled claim that only civilians were killed." History, common sense and objective analysis, even by the U.S. military, make clear that the tactics the U.S. is using - first with Bush at the helm, now with Barack Obama - are fostering hatred of the West and strengthening the Taliban.
All of which does nothing but make the point I've already made, that the war on terror that President Obama says he wants to widen, and win, in Afghanistan, is insane. Since Obama is neither insane himself nor indebted politically to a base that is, the enormous post-inaugural question we are now wrestling with is: Why is he pursuing it? And why are the Democrats so intent on fracturing their party in the pursuit of a war that is flawed at its core, just as they did in the '60s?
To quote from a comment made on Common Dreams in response to a piece I wrote last week about the new president and the war: "Demopublicans and Republicrats only see a narrow world of $elf-intere$t run by their corporate ma$ter$ who call the $hot$."Well, OK. I concede a piece of the truth to this viewpoint - but fear that there is no pure, chaste and financially uncompromised route to the American presidency. Lincoln, the Obama role model, was, after all, something less than an abolitionist when he got elected. He was a man of his time - only slightly off the racist political center of the day - but wound up altering the course of history.
Obama's trajectory is not on a collision course right now with the entrenched insanity of war. He's trying to make peace with this insanity and wage the "softer," PC war that Democrats prefer, building schools as well as blowing them up, going out of his way to say positive things about Muslims, etc.But he's still operating on the assumption that a robot war, which kills just as randomly and far more prolifically than suicide bombings in public squares do, can root evil out of its cave and secure U.S. and, while we're at it, world peace. History is waiting to tell him otherwise.
Robert Koehler, an award-winning, Chicago-based journalist, is an editor at Tribune Media Services and nationally syndicated writer. You can respond to this column at bkoehler@tribune.com or visit his Web site at commonwonders.com.
By: Robert C. Koehler
As our warrior robot drones eradicate evil - or at least "militancy" - from above, the Suicide Army of the East vows to keep blowing itself up until we call them off.This is not the plot of a bad sci-fi thriller. It's page one of the New York Times, described, as ever, with a sober politeness that doesn't quite do justice to geo-insanity's latest thrilling mutation:"Despite threats of retaliation from Pakistani militants, senior administration officials said Monday that the United States intended to step up its use of drones to strike militants in Pakistan's tribal areas and might extend them to a different sanctuary deeper inside the country.
"On Sunday, a senior Taliban leader vowed to unleash two suicide attacks a week like one on Saturday in Pakistan's capital, Islamabad, unless the Central Intelligence Agency stopped firing missiles at militants."And by the way: "Pakistani officials have expressed concerns that the missile strikes from remotely piloted aircraft fuel more violence in the country, and some American officials say they are also concerned about some aspects of the drone strikes."What has ever mattered less to the war machine than "concerns" . . . that robot killers don't win friends, that violence, perhaps, is counterproductive? Women, children, collateral damage, blah blah blah. Sen. Carl Levin, Michigan Democrat, head of the Senate Armed Services Committee, good-guy-turned-war-enabler, "acknowledged," as the Times put it - or as I might say, channeled every morally compromised spokesperson who ever equivocated in the name of George Bush, Adolf Hitler or Attila the Hun - that "the price is very heavy." Now we know.But alas, as Levin went on to explain, drone-fired missiles are "an extremely effective tool." And really, they're no more than a technical update of the innovation that allowed the English to slaughter French noblemen at the battle of Crecy in 1346 and ushered in modern, impersonal warfare: the longbow. One difference is that the dead at Crecy were all soldiers.
In any case, "The principle . . . is action at a distance," Barbara Ehrenreich points out in "Blood Rites," her 1997 study of the roots of war. And action at a distance, as Sen. Levin could explain to you, has the advantage of allowing the heavy price to be paid only by the other side.To wit: "As many as 1 million people have fled their homes in the Tribal Areas to escape attacks by the unmanned spy planes as well as bombings by the Pakistani army," London's Sunday Times reports, describing the situation on the Af-Pak border as "a massive humanitarian emergency."
Our longbows are flattening villages. Furthermore, while "Pakistani forces say they have killed 1,500 militants since launching anti-Taliban operations in Bajaur (Pakistan) in August," the Sunday Times story continues, "locals who fled claim that only civilians were killed." History, common sense and objective analysis, even by the U.S. military, make clear that the tactics the U.S. is using - first with Bush at the helm, now with Barack Obama - are fostering hatred of the West and strengthening the Taliban.
All of which does nothing but make the point I've already made, that the war on terror that President Obama says he wants to widen, and win, in Afghanistan, is insane. Since Obama is neither insane himself nor indebted politically to a base that is, the enormous post-inaugural question we are now wrestling with is: Why is he pursuing it? And why are the Democrats so intent on fracturing their party in the pursuit of a war that is flawed at its core, just as they did in the '60s?
To quote from a comment made on Common Dreams in response to a piece I wrote last week about the new president and the war: "Demopublicans and Republicrats only see a narrow world of $elf-intere$t run by their corporate ma$ter$ who call the $hot$."Well, OK. I concede a piece of the truth to this viewpoint - but fear that there is no pure, chaste and financially uncompromised route to the American presidency. Lincoln, the Obama role model, was, after all, something less than an abolitionist when he got elected. He was a man of his time - only slightly off the racist political center of the day - but wound up altering the course of history.
Obama's trajectory is not on a collision course right now with the entrenched insanity of war. He's trying to make peace with this insanity and wage the "softer," PC war that Democrats prefer, building schools as well as blowing them up, going out of his way to say positive things about Muslims, etc.But he's still operating on the assumption that a robot war, which kills just as randomly and far more prolifically than suicide bombings in public squares do, can root evil out of its cave and secure U.S. and, while we're at it, world peace. History is waiting to tell him otherwise.
Robert Koehler, an award-winning, Chicago-based journalist, is an editor at Tribune Media Services and nationally syndicated writer. You can respond to this column at bkoehler@tribune.com or visit his Web site at commonwonders.com.
Friday, April 10, 2009
A Message to the Non-Muslims
By Shaykh Abu Baseer Mustafa Haleemah at-Tartoosee
Bismillaahir Rahmaanir Raheem
Dear Reader,
The purpose of this message is to invite you to think of and contemplate about the real purpose of your life on this earth and where you will end up in the Hereafter. Will you end up in Paradise or in Hell-Fire? Please, take note, that when you have read this message, you are considered to have legislatively been given proof and been informed of the admonition of all messengers, and after which you will not be excused by ignorance:
Take note that Allah the Almighty is the One and Only God. He is Eternal. He is Absolute. He has not begotten and has not been begotten and no one is like Him.
Allah says: “Say: He is Allah, the One; Allah, the Eternal, Absolute; He begetteth not, nor is He begotten; and there is none like unto Him.” Surah No.112, Verses 1-4.
Allah says: “He is the Creator of the heavens and the earth: He has made for you pairs from among cattle: by this means does He multiply you: there is nothing whatever like unto Him, and He is the One that hears and sees.” Surah No. 42, Verse No. 11.
Learn that Allah the Almighty is the Creator of all creatures. There is no god for this universe and what it holds but Allah.
Allah says: “Allah is the Creator Of all things, and He is the Guardian and Disposer of all affairs.” Surah No.39 Verse 62.
Allah says: “Such is Allah, your Lord, The Creator of all things, there is no god but He: Then how you are deluded away from the Truth!” Surah No.40, Verse No.62.
Allah says: “To Allah belongs all that is in the heavens and earth: To Allah do all matters return.” Surah No.3 Verse No. 109.
Be informed that Allah the Almighty has created you for one single purpose which is to worship Him alone.
Allah says: “I have only created Jinns and men, that they may serve Me”. Surah No.51 Verse No. 56.
Allah says: “And they have been commanded no more than this: To worship Allah, offering Him sincere devotion, being true (in faith); to establish regular prayer; and to give zakat (i.e. charity given to the needy); and that is the Religion Right and Straight”. Surah No.98, Verse No. 5.
Understand that it is out of sincerity and purity of worship to Allah to avoid worshipping the created whoever and whatever they may be.
Allah says: “Certainly they disbelieve who say: “(Allah) is Christ the son of Mary." But said Christ: "O Children of Israel! Worship Allah, my Lord and your Lord.” Whoever joins other gods with Allah, - Allah will forbid him the Garden, and the Fire will be his abode. There will for the wrong-doers be no one to help.” Surah No. 5, Verse No. 72.
Allah says: “Say: "I do no more than invoke my Lord, and I join not with Him any (false god).” Surah No 72, Verse No. 20.
Allah says: “Say: "I am but a man like yourselves, (but) the inspiration has come to me, that your God is one God: whoever expects to meet his Lord, let him work righteousness, and, in the worship of his Lord, admit no one as partner.” Surah No. 18, Verse No. 110.
Allah says: “Those to whom We have given the Book rejoice at what hath been revealed unto thee: but there are among the clans those who reject a part thereof. Say: "I am commanded to worship Allah, and not to join partners with Him. Unto Him do I call, and unto Him is my return.” Surah No. 13, Verse No. 36.
Learn that he, who worships Allah joining with Him another whoever or whatever it may be, has associated partners with Allah and consequently his deeds will turn fruitless and he will be among the losers.
Allah says: “But it has already been revealed to thee, - as it was to those before thee, - “if thou wert to join (gods with Allah), truly fruitless will be thy work (in life), and thou wilt surely be among the losers.” Surah No. 29, Verse No. 65.
Allah says: “This is the Guidance of Allah: He giveth that guidance to whom He pleaseth, of His servants if they were to join other gods with Him, all that they did would be vain for them.” Surah No. 6, Verse No.88.
Take note that Allah the Almighty sent all Prophets and Messengers to reinforce and remind people that there is no god but Allah. That is nothing is worthy of being worshipped but Allah.
Allah says: “For we assuredly sent amongst every people a Messenger, (with the command), “serve Allah, and eschew Evil”: of the people were some whom Allah guided, and some on whom Error became inevitably (established). So travel through the earth, and see what was the end of those who denied (the Truth).” Surah No.16, Verse No. 36.
Allah says: “Not a messenger did We send before thee without this inspiration sent by Us to him: that there is no god but I; therefore worship and serve Me.” Surah 21 Verse 25. There is no prophet who said to his people but: “We sent Noah to his people. He said: “O my people! Worship Allah! Ye have no other god but Him. I fear for you the Punishment of a dreadful Day!” Surah No. 7, Verse No. 59.
Be informed that having faith and believing in all Prophets and Messengers is a must. If anyone rejects faith or doesn’t believe one Prophet or Messenger of Allah’s the Almighty, they are rejecting faith in Allah and disbelieving Him and all His Prophets and Messengers.
Allah says: “The Messenger believeth in what hath been revealed to him from his Lord, as do the men of faith, each one (of them) believeth in Allah, His angels, His books, and His Messengers. “We make no distinction (they say) between one and another of his Messengers.” And they say: “We hear, and we obey: (we seek) Thy forgiveness, our Lord, and to Thee is the end of all journeys.” Surah No. 2, Verse No. 285.
Allah says: “‘Verily it has been revealed to us that the Chastisement (awaits) those who reject and turn away.” Surah No. 20, Verse No. 48.
Allah says: “And who does more wrong than he who invents a lie against Allah or rejects the Truth when it reaches him? Is there not a home in Hell for those who reject Faith?” Surah No.29, Verse No. 68.
Allah says: “Those who reject the Book and the (revelations) with which we sent Our messengers: but soon shall they know.” Surah No. 40, Verse No. 70.
Be informed that Muhammad (PBBUH ) is the Messenger of Allah, who was sent by Allah as mercy to the worlds, giving glad tidings and warnings and that he is the seal of all Prophets and messengers and there is no Prophet after him.
Allah says: “Muhammad is no more than a Messenger: many were the Messengers that passed away before him. If he died or were slain, will ye then turn back on your heels? If any did turn back on his heels, not the least harm will he do to Allah; but Allah (on the other hand) will swiftly reward those who (serve Him) with gratitude.” Surah No. 3, Verse No. 144.
Allah says: “Those who follow the Messenger, the unlettered Prophet whom they find mentioned in their own (Scriptures),-in the Taurat and the Gospel; - for he commands them what is just and Forbids them what is evil; he allows them as lawful what is good (and pure) and prohibits them from what is bad (and impure): He releases them from their heavy burdens and from the yokes that are upon them. So it is those who believe in him, honour him, help him, and follow the Light which is sent down with him, - it is they who will prosper.” Surah No. 7, verse No. 157.
Allah says: “Say: “O men! I am sent unto you all, as the Messenger of Allah, to who belongeth the dominion of the heavens and the earth: there is no god but He: it is He that giveth both life and death. So believe in Allah and His Messenger. The unlettered Prophet, who believeth in Allah and His words, follow him that (so) ye may be guided.” Surah No. 7, Verse No. 158.
Allah says: “Now hath come to you a Messenger from amongst yourselves: it grieves him that you should suffer, ardently anxious is he over you: to the Believers is he most kind and merciful”. Surah No. 9, Verse No. 128.
Allah says: “Muhammad is not the father of any of your men, but (he is) the Messenger of Allah, and the Seal of the Prophets. And Allah has full knowledge of all things.” Surah No. 33, Verse No. 40.
Allah says: “Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah…” Surah No 48, Verse No. 29.
Allah says: “And remember, Jesus, the Son of Mary, said: “O Children of Israel! I am the messenger of Allah (sent) to you, confirming the Taurat (which came) before me, and giving Glad Tidings of a messenger to come after me, whose name shall be Ahmad. But when he came to them with Clear Signs, They said, “This is evident sorcery!” Surah No.61, Verse No.6.
Take note that Allah the Almighty revealed to Muhammad (PBBUH) the Holy Quran which is the word of Allah and which contains Guidance and Light for the worlds. It has also explanation of everything.
Allah says: “Ramadan is the (month) in which was sent down The Qur’an, as a guide to mankind, also clear (Signs) for guidance and judgment (between right and wrong) so every one of you who is present (at his home) during that month should spent it in fasting, but if anyone is ill, or on a journey, the prescribed period (should be made up) by days later. Allah intends every facility for you: He does not want to put you to difficulties. (He wants you) to complete the prescribed period, and glorify Him in that He has guided you; and perchance ye shall be grateful.” Surah No.2, Verse No.185.
Allah says: “Say: “What thing is most weighty in evidence?” say: “Allah is witness between me and you; this Qur’an hath been revealed to me by inspiration. That I may warn you and all whom it reaches. Can ye possibly bear witness that besides Allah there are other gods?” say: “Nay! I cannot bear witness!” Surah No. 6, Verse No. 19.
Allah says: “Verily this Quran doth guide to that which is most right (or stable), and giveth the glad tidings to the Believers who work deeds of righteousness, that they shall have a magnificent reward.” Surah No. 17, Verse No. 9.
Allah says: “We send down (stage by stage) of the Quran that which is a healing and a mercy to those who believe: to the unjust it causes nothing but loss after loss.” Surah No. 17, Verse No. 82.
Allah says: “As for thee, thou receives the Quran from One All-Wise, All-Knowing.” Surah No. 27, Verse No. 6.
Allah says: “And We have explained to man, in this Quran, every kind of similitude: yet greater part of men refuse (to receive it) except with gratitude!” Surah No. 17, Verse No. 89.
Appreciate that the Holy Quran, which was revealed to Allah’s Prophet (PBBUH), has been the Greatest Evident Miracle Ever. It is continuing and everlastingly challenging all mankind gathered together to produce something like it or like one of its Surahs.
Allah says: “Say: ‘if the whole of mankind and Jinns were to gather together to produce the like of this Quran, they could not produce the like thereof, even if they backed up each other with help and support.’” Surah No. 17, Verse No. 88.
Allah says: “And if ye are in doubt as to what We have revealed from time to time to Our servant then produce a Sura like thereunto; and call your witness or helpers (if there are any) besides Allah, if ye are truthful.” Surah No. 2, Verse No. 23.
Be informed that Allah has ordered all mankind no matter what their colours, sexes; languages may be to believe in Muhammad the Prophet (PBBUP), follow him and obey him. He who obeys the Prophet (PBBUH) obeys Allah and consequently he will be on the right path; and; he who disobeys the Prophet (PBBUH), disobeys Allah and consequently he will be on the wrong path.
Allah says: “Say: “Obey Allah and His Messenger”: but if they turn back, Allah loveth not those who reject faith.” Surah No. 3, Verse No. 32.
Allah says: “O ye who believe! Obey Allah and His Messenger, and turn not away from him when ye hear (him speak).” Surah No. 8, Verse No. 20.
Allah says: “He who obeys the Messenger, obeys Allah…” Surah No. 4, Verse No. 80.
Allah says: “Say: “if ye do love Allah, follow me: Allah will love you and forgive you your sins: for Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most merciful.” Surah No. 3, Verse No. 31.
Take note that he who hears of Muhammad the Prophet (PBBUH) and neither believes in him nor follows him is a disbeliever in Allah, rejecting faith in Him and consequently worthy to be tortured on the Day of Judgement.
Allah says: “We know indeed the grief which their words do cause thee: It is not thee they reject: It is the Signs of Allah, which the wicked deny.” Surah No. 6, Verse No. 33.
Allah says: “On that day those who reject Faith and disobey the Messenger will wish that the earth were made one with them: but never will they hide a single fact from Allah!” Surah No. 4, Verse No. 42.
Allah says: “If anyone contends with the Messenger even after Guidance has been plainly conveyed to him, and follows a path other than that becoming to men to Faith, we shall leave him in the path he has chosen, and land him in Hell,- What an evil refuge!” Surah No. 4, Verse No. 115.
The Prophet (PBBUH) says: “By the One in whose hands Muhammad’s soul is, if anyone, anywhere in the world, whether a Jew or Christian hears of me and dies without believing in my Message will definitely be amongst those in Hell-Fire.” (Muslim)
Take note that the Religion before Allah is Islam and it is the religion of all Prophets and Messengers. No religion is accepted of anyone but Islam.
Allah says: “And Abraham enjoined upon his sons and so did Jacob;” Oh my sons! Allah hath chosen the Faith for you; then die not except in the state of submission (to Me).” Surah No. 2, Verse No.132.
Allah says: “The Religion before Allah is Islam..” Surah No. 3, Verse No. 19.
Allah says: “If anyone desires a religion other than Islam (submission to Allah) never will it be accepted of him; and in the Hereafter he will be in the ranks of those who have lost.” Surah No. 3, Verse No.85.
Be informed that resurrection after death is coming and absolutely true; the Hour is coming and absolutely true and the accountability on doomsday is absolutely true.
Allah says: “Lost indeed are they who treat it as a falsehood that they must meet Allah, - until on a sudden the Hour is on them, and they say: “Ah! Woe unto us that we neglected; for they bear their burdens on their backs, and evil indeed are the burdens that they bear?” Surah No. 6 Verse No. 31.
Allah says: “Verily the Hour is coming- I have almost kept it hidden- for every soul to receive its reward by the measure of its Endeavour.” Surah No. 20, Verse No. 15.
Allah says: “And verily the Hour will come: there can be no doubt about it, or about (the fact) that Allah will raise up all who are in the graves.” Surah No. 22, Verse No. 7.
Allah says: “The Unbelievers say, “Never to us will come the Hour”: say, “Nay! But most surely, by my Lord, it will come upon you;…” Surah No 34, Verse No. 3.
Allah says: “The Hour will certainly come: therein is no doubt: yet most men believe not.” Surah No. 40, Verse No. No. 59.
Allah says: “Again, on the Day of Judgement, will ye be raised up.” Surah No. 23, Verse No. 16.
Allah says: “Allah is never unjust in the least degree: if there is any good (done), He doubleth it, and giveth from His Own self a great reward.” Surah No. 4, Verse No. 40.
Allah says: “Then shall anyone who has done an atom’s weight of good, see it! And anyone who has done an atom’s weight of evil, shall see it.” Surah No. 99, Verses Nos. 7-8.
Learn that Paradise and its bounties are absolutely true, therein everlasting goodness and bounties of which no ear has ever heard of, or an eye has ever seen or a mind has ever been able to imagine. All this has been prepared Allah’s righteous believers.
Allah says: “The parable of the Garden which the righteous are promised! - beneath it flow rivers; perpetual is the fruits therof and the shade therein: such is the End of the Righteous and the End of the Unbelievers is the Fire.” Surah No. 13, Verse No. 35.
Allah says: “But give glad tidings to those who believe and work righteousness, that their portion is Gardens, beneath which rivers flow, every time they are fed with fruits therefrom, they say: “Why, this what we were fed with before,” for that are given things in similitude; and they have therein spouses purified; and they abide therein (forever).” Surah No. 2, Verse No. 25.
Allah says: “But those who believe and work deeds of righteousness- to them shall We give a Home in Heaven, - lofty mansions beneath which flow rivers, -to dwell therein for aye; an excellent reward for those who do (good)!” Surah No. 29, Verse No. 58.
Allah says: “Verily the Companions of the Garden shall that Day have joy in all that they do.” Surah No. 36, Verse No. 55.
Allah says: “(Here is) the description of the Garden which the righteous are promised: in it are rivers of water unstaling; rivers of Milk of which the taste never changes; rivers of wine, a joy to those who drink; and rivers of honey pure and clear. In it there are for them all kinds of fruits; and Forgiveness from their Lord, (can those in such Bliss) be compared to such as shall dwell fro ever in the Fire and be given to drink, boiling water, so that it cuts up their bowels (to pieces)?” Surah No.47, Verse No. 15.
Allah says: “Be quick in the race for forgiveness from your Lord and for a Garden whose width is that (of the whole) of the heavens and of the earth, prepared for the righteous.” Surah No.3 Verse No 133.
Allah says: “Be ye foremost (in seeking) forgiveness from your Lord, and a Garden (of Bliss), the width whereof is as the width of heaven and earth prepared for those who believe in Allah and His messengers: that is the Grace of Allah, which He bestows on whom He pleases: and Allah is the Lord of Grace abounding.” Surah No. 57, Verse No. 21.
Learn that the Hell fire is absolutely true; its torture in is true; and fierce. It has a torture that is extremely fierce, harsh, and perpetual. Its torture is something that no ear has ever heard of, or an eye has ever seen or a mind has ever been able to imagine. All this has been prepared for those who associate partners with Allah and who made it false to believe in Allah.
Allah says: “Know they not that for those who oppose Allah and His Messenger is the Fire of Hell? - Wherein they shall dwell. That is the supreme disgrace.” Surah No.9, Verse No. 63.
Allah says: “…on the Day of Judgement we shall gather them together, prone on their faces, blind, dumb, and deaf: their abode will be Hell: every time it shows abatement, We shall increase for them the fierceness of the Fire.” Surah No. 17, Verse No. 97.
Allah says: “And We shall drive the sinners to hell, (like thirsty cattle driven down to water)” Surah No. 19, Verse No. 86.
Allah says: “Verily he who comes to his Lord as a sinner (at Judgement), -for him is Hell: therein shall he neither die nor live.” Surah No. 20, Verse No. 74.
Allah says: “But those who reject (Allah) - for them will be the Fire of Hell: not term shall be determined for them, so they should die, nor shall its Chastisement be lightened for them. Thus do WE reward every ungrateful.” Surah No. 35, Verse No. 36.
Allah says: “The Unbelievers will be led to Hell in groups: until, when they arrive there, its gates will be opened. And its Keepers will say, “Did not messengers come to you from among yourselves, rehearsing to you the Signs of your Lord, and warning you of the Meeting of this Day of yours?” The answer will be: “True: but the Decree of Chastisement has been proved true against the Unbelievers!” Surah No. 39, Verse No. 71.
Take note that if you die believing in the oneness of God and in Muhammad (PBBUH), Allah’s last Messenger, you will be amongst those who will be saved and led into Paradise to live in its bounties for ever.
Allah says: “But such as come to Him as Believers who have worked righteous deeds, for them are ranks exalted.” Surah No. 20, Verse No. 75.
Whereas, if you die associating partners with Allah, disbelieving in Him and rejecting faith in Him, you will be among those who will be in Hell Fire for ever and ever.
Allah says: “But whosoever turns away from My Message, verily for him is a life narrowed down, and We shall raise him up blind on the Day of Judgement.” Surah No. 20, Verse 124.
Allah says: “And who does more wrong than one to whom are recited the Signs of his Lord, and who then turns way therefrom? Verily from those who transgress We shall exact (due) retribution.” Surah No. 32, Verse no. 22.
Allah says: “Verily he who comes to his Lord as a sinner (at Judgement),-for him is Hell: therein shall he neither die nor live.” Surah No. 20, Verse No. 74
Allah says: “…and if any of you turn back from their faith and die in unbelief, their works will bear no fruit in this life and in the Hereafter; they will be companions of the Fire and will abide therein.” Surah No. 2, Verse No. 217
Be informed that there is no force in religion; the right path is clear and the wrong path is clear. So after you have read and thought of and contemplated about the above message, you will not be excused by ignorance. As the warnings and message of all messengers have now reached you, you will be brought to account and be accountable on the Day of Judgment when there is no benefit for money or children but only for those who will come with good deeds and clear hearts.
Finally take note that the devils of mankind and Jinn’s and the wicked of the learned among them are scheming day and night to prevent you from listening to this message and to any other message that speaks of the Truth.
We pray to Allah that He helps you find the right path and guide you to what pleases Him
Praise be to Allah, the Cherisher and Sustainer of the worlds
Bismillaahir Rahmaanir Raheem
Dear Reader,
The purpose of this message is to invite you to think of and contemplate about the real purpose of your life on this earth and where you will end up in the Hereafter. Will you end up in Paradise or in Hell-Fire? Please, take note, that when you have read this message, you are considered to have legislatively been given proof and been informed of the admonition of all messengers, and after which you will not be excused by ignorance:
Take note that Allah the Almighty is the One and Only God. He is Eternal. He is Absolute. He has not begotten and has not been begotten and no one is like Him.
Allah says: “Say: He is Allah, the One; Allah, the Eternal, Absolute; He begetteth not, nor is He begotten; and there is none like unto Him.” Surah No.112, Verses 1-4.
Allah says: “He is the Creator of the heavens and the earth: He has made for you pairs from among cattle: by this means does He multiply you: there is nothing whatever like unto Him, and He is the One that hears and sees.” Surah No. 42, Verse No. 11.
Learn that Allah the Almighty is the Creator of all creatures. There is no god for this universe and what it holds but Allah.
Allah says: “Allah is the Creator Of all things, and He is the Guardian and Disposer of all affairs.” Surah No.39 Verse 62.
Allah says: “Such is Allah, your Lord, The Creator of all things, there is no god but He: Then how you are deluded away from the Truth!” Surah No.40, Verse No.62.
Allah says: “To Allah belongs all that is in the heavens and earth: To Allah do all matters return.” Surah No.3 Verse No. 109.
Be informed that Allah the Almighty has created you for one single purpose which is to worship Him alone.
Allah says: “I have only created Jinns and men, that they may serve Me”. Surah No.51 Verse No. 56.
Allah says: “And they have been commanded no more than this: To worship Allah, offering Him sincere devotion, being true (in faith); to establish regular prayer; and to give zakat (i.e. charity given to the needy); and that is the Religion Right and Straight”. Surah No.98, Verse No. 5.
Understand that it is out of sincerity and purity of worship to Allah to avoid worshipping the created whoever and whatever they may be.
Allah says: “Certainly they disbelieve who say: “(Allah) is Christ the son of Mary." But said Christ: "O Children of Israel! Worship Allah, my Lord and your Lord.” Whoever joins other gods with Allah, - Allah will forbid him the Garden, and the Fire will be his abode. There will for the wrong-doers be no one to help.” Surah No. 5, Verse No. 72.
Allah says: “Say: "I do no more than invoke my Lord, and I join not with Him any (false god).” Surah No 72, Verse No. 20.
Allah says: “Say: "I am but a man like yourselves, (but) the inspiration has come to me, that your God is one God: whoever expects to meet his Lord, let him work righteousness, and, in the worship of his Lord, admit no one as partner.” Surah No. 18, Verse No. 110.
Allah says: “Those to whom We have given the Book rejoice at what hath been revealed unto thee: but there are among the clans those who reject a part thereof. Say: "I am commanded to worship Allah, and not to join partners with Him. Unto Him do I call, and unto Him is my return.” Surah No. 13, Verse No. 36.
Learn that he, who worships Allah joining with Him another whoever or whatever it may be, has associated partners with Allah and consequently his deeds will turn fruitless and he will be among the losers.
Allah says: “But it has already been revealed to thee, - as it was to those before thee, - “if thou wert to join (gods with Allah), truly fruitless will be thy work (in life), and thou wilt surely be among the losers.” Surah No. 29, Verse No. 65.
Allah says: “This is the Guidance of Allah: He giveth that guidance to whom He pleaseth, of His servants if they were to join other gods with Him, all that they did would be vain for them.” Surah No. 6, Verse No.88.
Take note that Allah the Almighty sent all Prophets and Messengers to reinforce and remind people that there is no god but Allah. That is nothing is worthy of being worshipped but Allah.
Allah says: “For we assuredly sent amongst every people a Messenger, (with the command), “serve Allah, and eschew Evil”: of the people were some whom Allah guided, and some on whom Error became inevitably (established). So travel through the earth, and see what was the end of those who denied (the Truth).” Surah No.16, Verse No. 36.
Allah says: “Not a messenger did We send before thee without this inspiration sent by Us to him: that there is no god but I; therefore worship and serve Me.” Surah 21 Verse 25. There is no prophet who said to his people but: “We sent Noah to his people. He said: “O my people! Worship Allah! Ye have no other god but Him. I fear for you the Punishment of a dreadful Day!” Surah No. 7, Verse No. 59.
Be informed that having faith and believing in all Prophets and Messengers is a must. If anyone rejects faith or doesn’t believe one Prophet or Messenger of Allah’s the Almighty, they are rejecting faith in Allah and disbelieving Him and all His Prophets and Messengers.
Allah says: “The Messenger believeth in what hath been revealed to him from his Lord, as do the men of faith, each one (of them) believeth in Allah, His angels, His books, and His Messengers. “We make no distinction (they say) between one and another of his Messengers.” And they say: “We hear, and we obey: (we seek) Thy forgiveness, our Lord, and to Thee is the end of all journeys.” Surah No. 2, Verse No. 285.
Allah says: “‘Verily it has been revealed to us that the Chastisement (awaits) those who reject and turn away.” Surah No. 20, Verse No. 48.
Allah says: “And who does more wrong than he who invents a lie against Allah or rejects the Truth when it reaches him? Is there not a home in Hell for those who reject Faith?” Surah No.29, Verse No. 68.
Allah says: “Those who reject the Book and the (revelations) with which we sent Our messengers: but soon shall they know.” Surah No. 40, Verse No. 70.
Be informed that Muhammad (PBBUH ) is the Messenger of Allah, who was sent by Allah as mercy to the worlds, giving glad tidings and warnings and that he is the seal of all Prophets and messengers and there is no Prophet after him.
Allah says: “Muhammad is no more than a Messenger: many were the Messengers that passed away before him. If he died or were slain, will ye then turn back on your heels? If any did turn back on his heels, not the least harm will he do to Allah; but Allah (on the other hand) will swiftly reward those who (serve Him) with gratitude.” Surah No. 3, Verse No. 144.
Allah says: “Those who follow the Messenger, the unlettered Prophet whom they find mentioned in their own (Scriptures),-in the Taurat and the Gospel; - for he commands them what is just and Forbids them what is evil; he allows them as lawful what is good (and pure) and prohibits them from what is bad (and impure): He releases them from their heavy burdens and from the yokes that are upon them. So it is those who believe in him, honour him, help him, and follow the Light which is sent down with him, - it is they who will prosper.” Surah No. 7, verse No. 157.
Allah says: “Say: “O men! I am sent unto you all, as the Messenger of Allah, to who belongeth the dominion of the heavens and the earth: there is no god but He: it is He that giveth both life and death. So believe in Allah and His Messenger. The unlettered Prophet, who believeth in Allah and His words, follow him that (so) ye may be guided.” Surah No. 7, Verse No. 158.
Allah says: “Now hath come to you a Messenger from amongst yourselves: it grieves him that you should suffer, ardently anxious is he over you: to the Believers is he most kind and merciful”. Surah No. 9, Verse No. 128.
Allah says: “Muhammad is not the father of any of your men, but (he is) the Messenger of Allah, and the Seal of the Prophets. And Allah has full knowledge of all things.” Surah No. 33, Verse No. 40.
Allah says: “Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah…” Surah No 48, Verse No. 29.
Allah says: “And remember, Jesus, the Son of Mary, said: “O Children of Israel! I am the messenger of Allah (sent) to you, confirming the Taurat (which came) before me, and giving Glad Tidings of a messenger to come after me, whose name shall be Ahmad. But when he came to them with Clear Signs, They said, “This is evident sorcery!” Surah No.61, Verse No.6.
Take note that Allah the Almighty revealed to Muhammad (PBBUH) the Holy Quran which is the word of Allah and which contains Guidance and Light for the worlds. It has also explanation of everything.
Allah says: “Ramadan is the (month) in which was sent down The Qur’an, as a guide to mankind, also clear (Signs) for guidance and judgment (between right and wrong) so every one of you who is present (at his home) during that month should spent it in fasting, but if anyone is ill, or on a journey, the prescribed period (should be made up) by days later. Allah intends every facility for you: He does not want to put you to difficulties. (He wants you) to complete the prescribed period, and glorify Him in that He has guided you; and perchance ye shall be grateful.” Surah No.2, Verse No.185.
Allah says: “Say: “What thing is most weighty in evidence?” say: “Allah is witness between me and you; this Qur’an hath been revealed to me by inspiration. That I may warn you and all whom it reaches. Can ye possibly bear witness that besides Allah there are other gods?” say: “Nay! I cannot bear witness!” Surah No. 6, Verse No. 19.
Allah says: “Verily this Quran doth guide to that which is most right (or stable), and giveth the glad tidings to the Believers who work deeds of righteousness, that they shall have a magnificent reward.” Surah No. 17, Verse No. 9.
Allah says: “We send down (stage by stage) of the Quran that which is a healing and a mercy to those who believe: to the unjust it causes nothing but loss after loss.” Surah No. 17, Verse No. 82.
Allah says: “As for thee, thou receives the Quran from One All-Wise, All-Knowing.” Surah No. 27, Verse No. 6.
Allah says: “And We have explained to man, in this Quran, every kind of similitude: yet greater part of men refuse (to receive it) except with gratitude!” Surah No. 17, Verse No. 89.
Appreciate that the Holy Quran, which was revealed to Allah’s Prophet (PBBUH), has been the Greatest Evident Miracle Ever. It is continuing and everlastingly challenging all mankind gathered together to produce something like it or like one of its Surahs.
Allah says: “Say: ‘if the whole of mankind and Jinns were to gather together to produce the like of this Quran, they could not produce the like thereof, even if they backed up each other with help and support.’” Surah No. 17, Verse No. 88.
Allah says: “And if ye are in doubt as to what We have revealed from time to time to Our servant then produce a Sura like thereunto; and call your witness or helpers (if there are any) besides Allah, if ye are truthful.” Surah No. 2, Verse No. 23.
Be informed that Allah has ordered all mankind no matter what their colours, sexes; languages may be to believe in Muhammad the Prophet (PBBUP), follow him and obey him. He who obeys the Prophet (PBBUH) obeys Allah and consequently he will be on the right path; and; he who disobeys the Prophet (PBBUH), disobeys Allah and consequently he will be on the wrong path.
Allah says: “Say: “Obey Allah and His Messenger”: but if they turn back, Allah loveth not those who reject faith.” Surah No. 3, Verse No. 32.
Allah says: “O ye who believe! Obey Allah and His Messenger, and turn not away from him when ye hear (him speak).” Surah No. 8, Verse No. 20.
Allah says: “He who obeys the Messenger, obeys Allah…” Surah No. 4, Verse No. 80.
Allah says: “Say: “if ye do love Allah, follow me: Allah will love you and forgive you your sins: for Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most merciful.” Surah No. 3, Verse No. 31.
Take note that he who hears of Muhammad the Prophet (PBBUH) and neither believes in him nor follows him is a disbeliever in Allah, rejecting faith in Him and consequently worthy to be tortured on the Day of Judgement.
Allah says: “We know indeed the grief which their words do cause thee: It is not thee they reject: It is the Signs of Allah, which the wicked deny.” Surah No. 6, Verse No. 33.
Allah says: “On that day those who reject Faith and disobey the Messenger will wish that the earth were made one with them: but never will they hide a single fact from Allah!” Surah No. 4, Verse No. 42.
Allah says: “If anyone contends with the Messenger even after Guidance has been plainly conveyed to him, and follows a path other than that becoming to men to Faith, we shall leave him in the path he has chosen, and land him in Hell,- What an evil refuge!” Surah No. 4, Verse No. 115.
The Prophet (PBBUH) says: “By the One in whose hands Muhammad’s soul is, if anyone, anywhere in the world, whether a Jew or Christian hears of me and dies without believing in my Message will definitely be amongst those in Hell-Fire.” (Muslim)
Take note that the Religion before Allah is Islam and it is the religion of all Prophets and Messengers. No religion is accepted of anyone but Islam.
Allah says: “And Abraham enjoined upon his sons and so did Jacob;” Oh my sons! Allah hath chosen the Faith for you; then die not except in the state of submission (to Me).” Surah No. 2, Verse No.132.
Allah says: “The Religion before Allah is Islam..” Surah No. 3, Verse No. 19.
Allah says: “If anyone desires a religion other than Islam (submission to Allah) never will it be accepted of him; and in the Hereafter he will be in the ranks of those who have lost.” Surah No. 3, Verse No.85.
Be informed that resurrection after death is coming and absolutely true; the Hour is coming and absolutely true and the accountability on doomsday is absolutely true.
Allah says: “Lost indeed are they who treat it as a falsehood that they must meet Allah, - until on a sudden the Hour is on them, and they say: “Ah! Woe unto us that we neglected; for they bear their burdens on their backs, and evil indeed are the burdens that they bear?” Surah No. 6 Verse No. 31.
Allah says: “Verily the Hour is coming- I have almost kept it hidden- for every soul to receive its reward by the measure of its Endeavour.” Surah No. 20, Verse No. 15.
Allah says: “And verily the Hour will come: there can be no doubt about it, or about (the fact) that Allah will raise up all who are in the graves.” Surah No. 22, Verse No. 7.
Allah says: “The Unbelievers say, “Never to us will come the Hour”: say, “Nay! But most surely, by my Lord, it will come upon you;…” Surah No 34, Verse No. 3.
Allah says: “The Hour will certainly come: therein is no doubt: yet most men believe not.” Surah No. 40, Verse No. No. 59.
Allah says: “Again, on the Day of Judgement, will ye be raised up.” Surah No. 23, Verse No. 16.
Allah says: “Allah is never unjust in the least degree: if there is any good (done), He doubleth it, and giveth from His Own self a great reward.” Surah No. 4, Verse No. 40.
Allah says: “Then shall anyone who has done an atom’s weight of good, see it! And anyone who has done an atom’s weight of evil, shall see it.” Surah No. 99, Verses Nos. 7-8.
Learn that Paradise and its bounties are absolutely true, therein everlasting goodness and bounties of which no ear has ever heard of, or an eye has ever seen or a mind has ever been able to imagine. All this has been prepared Allah’s righteous believers.
Allah says: “The parable of the Garden which the righteous are promised! - beneath it flow rivers; perpetual is the fruits therof and the shade therein: such is the End of the Righteous and the End of the Unbelievers is the Fire.” Surah No. 13, Verse No. 35.
Allah says: “But give glad tidings to those who believe and work righteousness, that their portion is Gardens, beneath which rivers flow, every time they are fed with fruits therefrom, they say: “Why, this what we were fed with before,” for that are given things in similitude; and they have therein spouses purified; and they abide therein (forever).” Surah No. 2, Verse No. 25.
Allah says: “But those who believe and work deeds of righteousness- to them shall We give a Home in Heaven, - lofty mansions beneath which flow rivers, -to dwell therein for aye; an excellent reward for those who do (good)!” Surah No. 29, Verse No. 58.
Allah says: “Verily the Companions of the Garden shall that Day have joy in all that they do.” Surah No. 36, Verse No. 55.
Allah says: “(Here is) the description of the Garden which the righteous are promised: in it are rivers of water unstaling; rivers of Milk of which the taste never changes; rivers of wine, a joy to those who drink; and rivers of honey pure and clear. In it there are for them all kinds of fruits; and Forgiveness from their Lord, (can those in such Bliss) be compared to such as shall dwell fro ever in the Fire and be given to drink, boiling water, so that it cuts up their bowels (to pieces)?” Surah No.47, Verse No. 15.
Allah says: “Be quick in the race for forgiveness from your Lord and for a Garden whose width is that (of the whole) of the heavens and of the earth, prepared for the righteous.” Surah No.3 Verse No 133.
Allah says: “Be ye foremost (in seeking) forgiveness from your Lord, and a Garden (of Bliss), the width whereof is as the width of heaven and earth prepared for those who believe in Allah and His messengers: that is the Grace of Allah, which He bestows on whom He pleases: and Allah is the Lord of Grace abounding.” Surah No. 57, Verse No. 21.
Learn that the Hell fire is absolutely true; its torture in is true; and fierce. It has a torture that is extremely fierce, harsh, and perpetual. Its torture is something that no ear has ever heard of, or an eye has ever seen or a mind has ever been able to imagine. All this has been prepared for those who associate partners with Allah and who made it false to believe in Allah.
Allah says: “Know they not that for those who oppose Allah and His Messenger is the Fire of Hell? - Wherein they shall dwell. That is the supreme disgrace.” Surah No.9, Verse No. 63.
Allah says: “…on the Day of Judgement we shall gather them together, prone on their faces, blind, dumb, and deaf: their abode will be Hell: every time it shows abatement, We shall increase for them the fierceness of the Fire.” Surah No. 17, Verse No. 97.
Allah says: “And We shall drive the sinners to hell, (like thirsty cattle driven down to water)” Surah No. 19, Verse No. 86.
Allah says: “Verily he who comes to his Lord as a sinner (at Judgement), -for him is Hell: therein shall he neither die nor live.” Surah No. 20, Verse No. 74.
Allah says: “But those who reject (Allah) - for them will be the Fire of Hell: not term shall be determined for them, so they should die, nor shall its Chastisement be lightened for them. Thus do WE reward every ungrateful.” Surah No. 35, Verse No. 36.
Allah says: “The Unbelievers will be led to Hell in groups: until, when they arrive there, its gates will be opened. And its Keepers will say, “Did not messengers come to you from among yourselves, rehearsing to you the Signs of your Lord, and warning you of the Meeting of this Day of yours?” The answer will be: “True: but the Decree of Chastisement has been proved true against the Unbelievers!” Surah No. 39, Verse No. 71.
Take note that if you die believing in the oneness of God and in Muhammad (PBBUH), Allah’s last Messenger, you will be amongst those who will be saved and led into Paradise to live in its bounties for ever.
Allah says: “But such as come to Him as Believers who have worked righteous deeds, for them are ranks exalted.” Surah No. 20, Verse No. 75.
Whereas, if you die associating partners with Allah, disbelieving in Him and rejecting faith in Him, you will be among those who will be in Hell Fire for ever and ever.
Allah says: “But whosoever turns away from My Message, verily for him is a life narrowed down, and We shall raise him up blind on the Day of Judgement.” Surah No. 20, Verse 124.
Allah says: “And who does more wrong than one to whom are recited the Signs of his Lord, and who then turns way therefrom? Verily from those who transgress We shall exact (due) retribution.” Surah No. 32, Verse no. 22.
Allah says: “Verily he who comes to his Lord as a sinner (at Judgement),-for him is Hell: therein shall he neither die nor live.” Surah No. 20, Verse No. 74
Allah says: “…and if any of you turn back from their faith and die in unbelief, their works will bear no fruit in this life and in the Hereafter; they will be companions of the Fire and will abide therein.” Surah No. 2, Verse No. 217
Be informed that there is no force in religion; the right path is clear and the wrong path is clear. So after you have read and thought of and contemplated about the above message, you will not be excused by ignorance. As the warnings and message of all messengers have now reached you, you will be brought to account and be accountable on the Day of Judgment when there is no benefit for money or children but only for those who will come with good deeds and clear hearts.
Finally take note that the devils of mankind and Jinn’s and the wicked of the learned among them are scheming day and night to prevent you from listening to this message and to any other message that speaks of the Truth.
We pray to Allah that He helps you find the right path and guide you to what pleases Him
Praise be to Allah, the Cherisher and Sustainer of the worlds
Who gave the Qur’aan this name?
From: Islam Q&A
Praise be to Allaah;
"Qur’aan."Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):
"The month of Ramadan in which was revealed the Qur’aan . . ." [al-Baqarah 2:185]
"Do they not then consider the Qur’aan carefully . . .?" [al-Nisaa’ 4:82]
"So, when the Qur’aan is recited, listen to it, and be silent that you may receive mercy . . ." [al-A ‘raaf 7:204]
"Verily, Allaah has purchased of the believers their lives and their properties; for the price that their shall be Paradise. They fight in Allaah’s Cause, so they kill (others) and are killed. It is a promise in truth which is binding on Him in the Tawraat (Torah) and the Injeel (Gospel) and the Qur’aan . . ." [al-Tawbah 9:111]
"And this Qur’aan is not such as could ever be produced by other than Alaah, but it is a confirmation of (the revelation) which was before it, and a full explanation of the Book wherein there is no doubt from the Lord of the ‘Aalameen (mankind, jinn and all that exists)" [Yunus 10:37]
"Verily, We have sent it down as an Arabic Qur’aan in order that you might understand" [Yusuf 12:2]
"We relate unto you [Muhammad] the best of stories through Our Revelations unto you, of this Qur’aan. And before this, you were among those who knew nothing about it (the Qur’aan)." [Yusuf 12:3]
"And indeed, We have bestowed upon you seven of al-Mathaani (the seven repeatedly recited verses, i.e. Soorat al-Faatihah) and the Grand Qur’aan." [al-Hijr 15:87]
"So when you want to recite the Qur’aan, seek refuge with Allaah from Shaytaan, the outcast (the cursed one)." [al-Nahl 16:98]
"Verily, this Qur’aan guides to that which is most just . . ." [al-Israa’ 17:9]
"And We send down from the Qur’aan that which is a healing and a mercy to those who believe, and it increases the zaalimoon (wrongdoers) nothing but loss." [al-Israa’ 17:82]
"Say: ‘If mankind and the jinns were together to produce the like of this Qur’aan, they could not produce the like thereof, even if they helped one another.’" [al-Israa’ 17:88]
"And (it is) a Qur’aan which We have divided )into parts), in order that you might recite it to men at intervals. And We have revealed it by stages." [al-Israa’ 17:106]
"We have not sent down the Qur’aan unto you [O Muhammad] to cause you distress" [Ta-Ha 20:2]
"Then High above all be Allaah, the True King. And be not in haste (O Muhammad) with the Qur’aan before its revelation is completed to you, and say: ‘My Lord! Increase me in knowledge.’" [Ta-Ha 20:114]
"Ta-Seen [These letters are one of the miracles of the Qur’aan, and none but Allaah (Alone) knows their meanings]. These are the Verses of the Qur’aan, and (it is) a Book (that makes things) clear" [al-Naml 27:1]
"And verily, you (O Muhammad) are receiving the Qur’aan from the One, All-Wise, All-Knowing." [al-Naml 27:6]
"Verily, He Who has given you (O Muhammad) the Qur’aan will surely bring you back to the Ma’aad (place of return, either to Makkah or to Pradise after your death) . . ." [al-Qasas 28:85] "By the Qur’aan, full of wisdom" [Yaa-Seen 36:2]
"And indeed, We have made the Qur’aan easy to understand and remember, then is there any that will remember (or receive admonition)?" [al-Qamar 54:40]
"That (this) is indeed an honourable recital (the Noble Qur’aan)." [al-Waaqi’ah 56:77] "Had We sent down this Qur’aan on a mountain, you would surely have seen it humbling itself and rending asunder by the fear of Allah . . ." [al-Hashr 59:21]
"or a little more; and recite the Qur’aan (aloud) in a slow, (pleasant tone and) style." [al-Muzzammil 73:4] "Nay! This is a Glorious Qur’aan" [al-Burooj 85:21]
God gave the name "Qur’aan" to the Book which He revealed to Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him)?In Arabic, the word "Qur’an" comes from the word meaning al-qar’, which means "gathering" and "putting things together." It is so called because it is a collection of all the siwar (plural of surah). It was also suggested that it is so called because it combines the fruits of the previously-revealed books, or because it combines all kinds of knowledge.(See al-Itqaan by al-Suyooti, 1/162-163).Finally, we advise you to check what you read so that you do not get confused by unreliable sources in books and magazines that may cause you to doubt the truth. May Allaah bless you and us with beneficial knowledge and help us to perform righteous deeds.
Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid
Praise be to Allaah;
"Qur’aan."Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):
"The month of Ramadan in which was revealed the Qur’aan . . ." [al-Baqarah 2:185]
"Do they not then consider the Qur’aan carefully . . .?" [al-Nisaa’ 4:82]
"So, when the Qur’aan is recited, listen to it, and be silent that you may receive mercy . . ." [al-A ‘raaf 7:204]
"Verily, Allaah has purchased of the believers their lives and their properties; for the price that their shall be Paradise. They fight in Allaah’s Cause, so they kill (others) and are killed. It is a promise in truth which is binding on Him in the Tawraat (Torah) and the Injeel (Gospel) and the Qur’aan . . ." [al-Tawbah 9:111]
"And this Qur’aan is not such as could ever be produced by other than Alaah, but it is a confirmation of (the revelation) which was before it, and a full explanation of the Book wherein there is no doubt from the Lord of the ‘Aalameen (mankind, jinn and all that exists)" [Yunus 10:37]
"Verily, We have sent it down as an Arabic Qur’aan in order that you might understand" [Yusuf 12:2]
"We relate unto you [Muhammad] the best of stories through Our Revelations unto you, of this Qur’aan. And before this, you were among those who knew nothing about it (the Qur’aan)." [Yusuf 12:3]
"And indeed, We have bestowed upon you seven of al-Mathaani (the seven repeatedly recited verses, i.e. Soorat al-Faatihah) and the Grand Qur’aan." [al-Hijr 15:87]
"So when you want to recite the Qur’aan, seek refuge with Allaah from Shaytaan, the outcast (the cursed one)." [al-Nahl 16:98]
"Verily, this Qur’aan guides to that which is most just . . ." [al-Israa’ 17:9]
"And We send down from the Qur’aan that which is a healing and a mercy to those who believe, and it increases the zaalimoon (wrongdoers) nothing but loss." [al-Israa’ 17:82]
"Say: ‘If mankind and the jinns were together to produce the like of this Qur’aan, they could not produce the like thereof, even if they helped one another.’" [al-Israa’ 17:88]
"And (it is) a Qur’aan which We have divided )into parts), in order that you might recite it to men at intervals. And We have revealed it by stages." [al-Israa’ 17:106]
"We have not sent down the Qur’aan unto you [O Muhammad] to cause you distress" [Ta-Ha 20:2]
"Then High above all be Allaah, the True King. And be not in haste (O Muhammad) with the Qur’aan before its revelation is completed to you, and say: ‘My Lord! Increase me in knowledge.’" [Ta-Ha 20:114]
"Ta-Seen [These letters are one of the miracles of the Qur’aan, and none but Allaah (Alone) knows their meanings]. These are the Verses of the Qur’aan, and (it is) a Book (that makes things) clear" [al-Naml 27:1]
"And verily, you (O Muhammad) are receiving the Qur’aan from the One, All-Wise, All-Knowing." [al-Naml 27:6]
"Verily, He Who has given you (O Muhammad) the Qur’aan will surely bring you back to the Ma’aad (place of return, either to Makkah or to Pradise after your death) . . ." [al-Qasas 28:85] "By the Qur’aan, full of wisdom" [Yaa-Seen 36:2]
"And indeed, We have made the Qur’aan easy to understand and remember, then is there any that will remember (or receive admonition)?" [al-Qamar 54:40]
"That (this) is indeed an honourable recital (the Noble Qur’aan)." [al-Waaqi’ah 56:77] "Had We sent down this Qur’aan on a mountain, you would surely have seen it humbling itself and rending asunder by the fear of Allah . . ." [al-Hashr 59:21]
"or a little more; and recite the Qur’aan (aloud) in a slow, (pleasant tone and) style." [al-Muzzammil 73:4] "Nay! This is a Glorious Qur’aan" [al-Burooj 85:21]
God gave the name "Qur’aan" to the Book which He revealed to Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him)?In Arabic, the word "Qur’an" comes from the word meaning al-qar’, which means "gathering" and "putting things together." It is so called because it is a collection of all the siwar (plural of surah). It was also suggested that it is so called because it combines the fruits of the previously-revealed books, or because it combines all kinds of knowledge.(See al-Itqaan by al-Suyooti, 1/162-163).Finally, we advise you to check what you read so that you do not get confused by unreliable sources in books and magazines that may cause you to doubt the truth. May Allaah bless you and us with beneficial knowledge and help us to perform righteous deeds.
Islam Q&A Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid
Waiting For Jesus
From: www.harunyahya.com
By: Harun Yahya
It is very important for a Muslim that Jesus is going to come back to the earth again. He is a Prophet born by a miracle of God without a father; he invited the Children of Israel to follow the true path and showed them many miracles. He is the Messiah and, as the Qur'an says, he is the "word of God" (Qur'an, 4:171).
Together with his return to earth, the lack of understanding between Christians and Muslims who believe in the same God, share the same moral values and, as the Qur'an says, are closer to one another in love than all other people (Qur'an, 5:82) will be repaired, and these two greatest of the world's religious communities will be united. The members of the world's third monotheistic religion, the Jews, will also accept Jesus as their true
Messiah and find their way to the true religion (Qur'an, 4:159).
So the three monotheistic religions will unite, there will be one single religion on earth based on faith in God and obedience to Jesus, His Prophet. This religion will defeat the atheistic philosophies and pagan beliefs with intellectual means; thus, the world will be saved from wars, conflicts, racial and ethnic hostility, cruelty and injustice. Humanity will enter a "Golden Age" of peace, happiness and well-being.
Certainly, this will be the greatest event in the history of the world. In this situation in which the three monotheistic religions will unite, the whole American continent, Europe, the Islamic world, Russia and Israel will be allied on the basis of a shared faith, and no such unity has ever occurred before. The peace, well-being, stability and happiness to be established in the world by this union has never been known in any previous period; its likeness has never been seen.
And, when Jesus returns to earth, it will be one of the greatest wonders in the history of the world.
Those prophets whom Allah has chosen perform various miracles by His will. The miracles performed by Jesus in Palestine 2000 years ago were such marvels as raising the dead, healing the blind and lepers, and giving life to inanimate substances. (Qur’an, 5: 11)
The return of Jesus to the earth after 2000 years and the beginning of his new life in his mature years without a mother and father will be a great wonder. And he will show people new miracles. As a result, materialist philosophy, which has already collapsed on the levels of science and philosophy, will suffer irrevocable ruin for all the world to see, and people will witness the clear proofs for the existence and power of God.
So, in the light of the signs in the Qur'an, the sayings of our Prophet and the interpretations of leading scholars in Islam, we believe that this blessed period is very near. As Muslims, we are very excited about the imminent return of Jesus and are doing all we can to prepare ourselves and the world to receive this blessed guest.
We call on Christians to be as sensitive, aware and eager as possible about this.
By: Harun Yahya
It is very important for a Muslim that Jesus is going to come back to the earth again. He is a Prophet born by a miracle of God without a father; he invited the Children of Israel to follow the true path and showed them many miracles. He is the Messiah and, as the Qur'an says, he is the "word of God" (Qur'an, 4:171).
Together with his return to earth, the lack of understanding between Christians and Muslims who believe in the same God, share the same moral values and, as the Qur'an says, are closer to one another in love than all other people (Qur'an, 5:82) will be repaired, and these two greatest of the world's religious communities will be united. The members of the world's third monotheistic religion, the Jews, will also accept Jesus as their true
Messiah and find their way to the true religion (Qur'an, 4:159).
So the three monotheistic religions will unite, there will be one single religion on earth based on faith in God and obedience to Jesus, His Prophet. This religion will defeat the atheistic philosophies and pagan beliefs with intellectual means; thus, the world will be saved from wars, conflicts, racial and ethnic hostility, cruelty and injustice. Humanity will enter a "Golden Age" of peace, happiness and well-being.
Certainly, this will be the greatest event in the history of the world. In this situation in which the three monotheistic religions will unite, the whole American continent, Europe, the Islamic world, Russia and Israel will be allied on the basis of a shared faith, and no such unity has ever occurred before. The peace, well-being, stability and happiness to be established in the world by this union has never been known in any previous period; its likeness has never been seen.
And, when Jesus returns to earth, it will be one of the greatest wonders in the history of the world.
Those prophets whom Allah has chosen perform various miracles by His will. The miracles performed by Jesus in Palestine 2000 years ago were such marvels as raising the dead, healing the blind and lepers, and giving life to inanimate substances. (Qur’an, 5: 11)
The return of Jesus to the earth after 2000 years and the beginning of his new life in his mature years without a mother and father will be a great wonder. And he will show people new miracles. As a result, materialist philosophy, which has already collapsed on the levels of science and philosophy, will suffer irrevocable ruin for all the world to see, and people will witness the clear proofs for the existence and power of God.
So, in the light of the signs in the Qur'an, the sayings of our Prophet and the interpretations of leading scholars in Islam, we believe that this blessed period is very near. As Muslims, we are very excited about the imminent return of Jesus and are doing all we can to prepare ourselves and the world to receive this blessed guest.
We call on Christians to be as sensitive, aware and eager as possible about this.
Monday, April 06, 2009
Ancient Kingdom of Israel – An Islamic Perspective (part 1 of 2): Prophet Samuel and King Saul
From: http://www.islamreligion.com/
By Aisha Stacey
According to Biblical history[1], the ancient Kingdom of Israel was ruled over by a succession of Kings. After wandering in the desert for an undetermined length of time, the Children of Israel (Israelites) entered the Promised Land and split into two distinct kingdoms. King David managed to unite the two Kingdoms, while his son Solomon led the children of Israel into a period of prosperity and peace known as the Golden Age. For many readers, it may come as a surprise to learn that Islamic history also contains stories of kings, Saul, David, and Solomon.
Muslims believe that David and Solomon are Prophets and as such, they are required to believe in, and love and respect them as part of the creed of Islam. What follows is an account of the Kingdom of Israel from an Islamic perspective[2].
When Prophet Moses led his people out of bondage in Egypt, he faced severe tests and challenges. After generations under the brutal yoke of the Egyptians, the Children of Israel needed a period of recovery. Their souls had been hardened by the idolatrous practices prevalent in Egypt and this caused a blackness to settle upon their hearts. Although God directed Moses to lead his people to the Promised Land they were prevented from entering until Moses’ entire generation had passed away and were replaced by people whose hearts were filled with remembrance of God. Joshua led the Children of Israel into the Promised Land and for some time their condition remained pure and their hearts and minds remained focused on pleasing the One God.
Time passed and their moral condition deteriorated, the Israelites began to commit many sins, including the abdominal crime of killing their Prophets. Consequently, God decreed that a tyrannical king who cared little for his people rule them. He shed their blood, treated them with contempt and his aggression involved them in wars with neighbouring countries. During the endless wars, the Israelites carried with them a chest containing relics and treasures from their Prophets Moses and Aaron.
The chest was known as the Ark of the Covenant and the Israelites set such store by it, they even carried into battle. It bought them great peace and filled them with courage. Their enemies however, believed the chest contained special powers and it filled them with fear. In time, the Philistines overcame that fear, defeated the Israelites, and captured the chest. When the tyrannical king learned that the chest had been captured, he collapsed and died. The children of Israel remained lost, like sheep without a shepherd until God sent Prophet Samuel to guide them back to the true path- to worship One God, without partners, sons, daughters, or rivals.
Appoint for us a King
Disheartened by the loss of their power the Israelites beseeched Prophet Samuel to appoint for them a king. They asked for a strong man to lead them back to power and prosperity but Samuel was wary of their promises and pleas. He feared that their blackened hearts would not allow them to fight for the sake of God. Samuel was a wise man and he prayed that God direct him to a man suitable to be the King of the Israelites. God chose Saul (Talut) to be the King and informed Prophet Samuel that he would recognise this pious young man.
Saul was a tall, well-built young man who worked with his father on a farm. One day when some donkeys wandered away from the farm Saul and a servant went in search of them. The search led them into Prophet Samuel’s town. Saul was a wise man who took his servants advice and approached Prophet Samuel about the loss of the donkeys. Samuel recognised him immediately as the future king and assured Saul that the donkeys were already being returned to his father.
Prophet Samuel informed Saul that God had chosen him to be the King of the children of Israel.
Saul was shocked and amazed, he immediately responded by saying that he was not worthy of such an honour because he was from the tribe of Benjamin, a lowly tribe that most Israelites considered unworthy for such greatness. Prophet Samuel explained that this was of no consequence since God had already decreed that Saul be the King. Samuel presented Saul to the Israelites saying , “Indeed God has appointed Saul (Talut) as a king over you.” (Quran 2:247)
The children of Israel’s immediate reaction was to complain. Even though they had begged God for mercy and deliverance from oppression, they responded contemptuously towards both the pious young man, whose heart was filled with love for the One God, and Prophet Samuel. They said, “How can he be a king over us when we are better fitted than him for the kingdom, and he has not been given enough wealth.” (Quran 2:247)
The Israelites’ hearts had once again become hardened and diseased. They were concerned with wealth and status rather then piety, and found fault with God’s chosen leader. Although Saul had neither wealth nor status, God had blessed him with knowledge and stature. Prophet Samuel tried to reason with them. He said, “Verily, God has chosen him above you and has increased him abundantly in knowledge and stature. And God grants His Kingdom to whom He wills.” (Quran 2:247) However the Israelites continued to complain and object asking for a sign from God that Saul was indeed fit to be their king.
God, in His infinite mercy and wisdom, decided to provide the Israelites with the sign (or miracle) they demanded. God instructed the angels to return the Ark of the Covenant that had been captured by the Philistines. God not only returned their beloved wooden chest, filled with the relics of the past but He added tranquillity to its contents.
“And their Prophet (Samuel) said to them: Verily! The sign of His Kingdom is that there shall come to you a wooden box, wherein is Sakinah (peace and reassurance) from your Lord and a remnant of that which Moses and Aaron left behind, carried by the angels. Verily, in this is a sign for you if you are indeed believers.” (Quran.2:248)
Saul was officially appointed King. He established and prepared an army in order to take back the lands stolen from the children of Israel. However, Saul insisted that his army only comprise of courageous and pious men. The men under Saul’s command would be those whose hearts were filled with love for the One True God.
Footnotes:
[1] http://www.fordham.edu/halsall/ancient/asbook06.html#The%20National%20Monarchy
[2] Based on the work of Ibn Kathir, Stories of the Prophets.
Blogger comment:
1- God in the Quran speak to human race as well to the Jinn (unseen beings) to Muslims, Jews and Christians. He speaks to all with glory and authority and all the speech is appropriate to each group and quite appropriate to the occasion. No weakness, no reluctance and no human voice you can hear but direct powerful speech from the creator of the heavens and earth.
2- Like the Jews like the Muslims God would bless and make them prosperous when they are obedient.
3- God has the right to choose whom he would like to lead his people. The west had chosen to us the tyrants and supported them for decades. Did they choose for us the best of us not really. Can God help us to liberate ourselves and succeed in this life and the hereafter, of course he can. We have first to believe that it is not Obama or any one who will save us but our collective faith, aspiration and work. We have to depend one ourselves. You will hear good speech from President Obama he is a good man. However there will be no plans for us or for the future of our people. We have to stand together Muslims and Arabs. We have to gather our good Christians and Jews in our countries and find new existence, reality and justice.
By Aisha Stacey
According to Biblical history[1], the ancient Kingdom of Israel was ruled over by a succession of Kings. After wandering in the desert for an undetermined length of time, the Children of Israel (Israelites) entered the Promised Land and split into two distinct kingdoms. King David managed to unite the two Kingdoms, while his son Solomon led the children of Israel into a period of prosperity and peace known as the Golden Age. For many readers, it may come as a surprise to learn that Islamic history also contains stories of kings, Saul, David, and Solomon.
Muslims believe that David and Solomon are Prophets and as such, they are required to believe in, and love and respect them as part of the creed of Islam. What follows is an account of the Kingdom of Israel from an Islamic perspective[2].
When Prophet Moses led his people out of bondage in Egypt, he faced severe tests and challenges. After generations under the brutal yoke of the Egyptians, the Children of Israel needed a period of recovery. Their souls had been hardened by the idolatrous practices prevalent in Egypt and this caused a blackness to settle upon their hearts. Although God directed Moses to lead his people to the Promised Land they were prevented from entering until Moses’ entire generation had passed away and were replaced by people whose hearts were filled with remembrance of God. Joshua led the Children of Israel into the Promised Land and for some time their condition remained pure and their hearts and minds remained focused on pleasing the One God.
Time passed and their moral condition deteriorated, the Israelites began to commit many sins, including the abdominal crime of killing their Prophets. Consequently, God decreed that a tyrannical king who cared little for his people rule them. He shed their blood, treated them with contempt and his aggression involved them in wars with neighbouring countries. During the endless wars, the Israelites carried with them a chest containing relics and treasures from their Prophets Moses and Aaron.
The chest was known as the Ark of the Covenant and the Israelites set such store by it, they even carried into battle. It bought them great peace and filled them with courage. Their enemies however, believed the chest contained special powers and it filled them with fear. In time, the Philistines overcame that fear, defeated the Israelites, and captured the chest. When the tyrannical king learned that the chest had been captured, he collapsed and died. The children of Israel remained lost, like sheep without a shepherd until God sent Prophet Samuel to guide them back to the true path- to worship One God, without partners, sons, daughters, or rivals.
Appoint for us a King
Disheartened by the loss of their power the Israelites beseeched Prophet Samuel to appoint for them a king. They asked for a strong man to lead them back to power and prosperity but Samuel was wary of their promises and pleas. He feared that their blackened hearts would not allow them to fight for the sake of God. Samuel was a wise man and he prayed that God direct him to a man suitable to be the King of the Israelites. God chose Saul (Talut) to be the King and informed Prophet Samuel that he would recognise this pious young man.
Saul was a tall, well-built young man who worked with his father on a farm. One day when some donkeys wandered away from the farm Saul and a servant went in search of them. The search led them into Prophet Samuel’s town. Saul was a wise man who took his servants advice and approached Prophet Samuel about the loss of the donkeys. Samuel recognised him immediately as the future king and assured Saul that the donkeys were already being returned to his father.
Prophet Samuel informed Saul that God had chosen him to be the King of the children of Israel.
Saul was shocked and amazed, he immediately responded by saying that he was not worthy of such an honour because he was from the tribe of Benjamin, a lowly tribe that most Israelites considered unworthy for such greatness. Prophet Samuel explained that this was of no consequence since God had already decreed that Saul be the King. Samuel presented Saul to the Israelites saying , “Indeed God has appointed Saul (Talut) as a king over you.” (Quran 2:247)
The children of Israel’s immediate reaction was to complain. Even though they had begged God for mercy and deliverance from oppression, they responded contemptuously towards both the pious young man, whose heart was filled with love for the One God, and Prophet Samuel. They said, “How can he be a king over us when we are better fitted than him for the kingdom, and he has not been given enough wealth.” (Quran 2:247)
The Israelites’ hearts had once again become hardened and diseased. They were concerned with wealth and status rather then piety, and found fault with God’s chosen leader. Although Saul had neither wealth nor status, God had blessed him with knowledge and stature. Prophet Samuel tried to reason with them. He said, “Verily, God has chosen him above you and has increased him abundantly in knowledge and stature. And God grants His Kingdom to whom He wills.” (Quran 2:247) However the Israelites continued to complain and object asking for a sign from God that Saul was indeed fit to be their king.
God, in His infinite mercy and wisdom, decided to provide the Israelites with the sign (or miracle) they demanded. God instructed the angels to return the Ark of the Covenant that had been captured by the Philistines. God not only returned their beloved wooden chest, filled with the relics of the past but He added tranquillity to its contents.
“And their Prophet (Samuel) said to them: Verily! The sign of His Kingdom is that there shall come to you a wooden box, wherein is Sakinah (peace and reassurance) from your Lord and a remnant of that which Moses and Aaron left behind, carried by the angels. Verily, in this is a sign for you if you are indeed believers.” (Quran.2:248)
Saul was officially appointed King. He established and prepared an army in order to take back the lands stolen from the children of Israel. However, Saul insisted that his army only comprise of courageous and pious men. The men under Saul’s command would be those whose hearts were filled with love for the One True God.
Footnotes:
[1] http://www.fordham.edu/halsall/ancient/asbook06.html#The%20National%20Monarchy
[2] Based on the work of Ibn Kathir, Stories of the Prophets.
Blogger comment:
1- God in the Quran speak to human race as well to the Jinn (unseen beings) to Muslims, Jews and Christians. He speaks to all with glory and authority and all the speech is appropriate to each group and quite appropriate to the occasion. No weakness, no reluctance and no human voice you can hear but direct powerful speech from the creator of the heavens and earth.
2- Like the Jews like the Muslims God would bless and make them prosperous when they are obedient.
3- God has the right to choose whom he would like to lead his people. The west had chosen to us the tyrants and supported them for decades. Did they choose for us the best of us not really. Can God help us to liberate ourselves and succeed in this life and the hereafter, of course he can. We have first to believe that it is not Obama or any one who will save us but our collective faith, aspiration and work. We have to depend one ourselves. You will hear good speech from President Obama he is a good man. However there will be no plans for us or for the future of our people. We have to stand together Muslims and Arabs. We have to gather our good Christians and Jews in our countries and find new existence, reality and justice.
A Trillion Dollars for the Banks: How About a Second Opinion?
From: www.commondreams.org
by Dean Baker
Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner wants to have the government lend up to a trillion dollars to hedge funds, private equity, funds and the banks themselves to clear their books of toxic assets. The plan implies a substantial subsidy to the banks. It is likely to result in the disposal of these assets at far above market value, with the government picking up the losses.
As much as we all want to help out the Wall Street bankers in their hour of need, taxpayers may reasonably ask whether this is the best use of our money. After all, the $1 trillion that is being set aside for this latest TARP variation is equal to 300 million SCHIP kid years. Congress has had heated debates over sums that were a small fraction of this size. To give another useful measuring stick, the Geithner plan could fund 1 million of the Woodstock museums that were the main prop of Senator McCain's presidential campaign.
The core problem is that many of our big banks are bankrupt. If they had to acknowledge the losses that they have incurred on their housing related loans (and increasing their loans in commercial real estate) Citigroup, Bank of America, and many other large banks would be insolvent. Thus far, they have avoided reality by keeping these loans on their books at inflated prices.
The Geithner plan is an effort to rescue the banks by using government funding to prop up the price of these bad loans to levels that will allow the banks to stay solvent. It is not clear that the plan is big enough to accomplish this goal, but that is the basic intention. If it doesn't work, then presumably Geithner will come out with another TARP permutation that involves giving the banks even more money.
There is an alternative. Rather than using government money to keep them alive, we could force the banks to go through a type of managed bankruptcy process like the one that is currently being proposed for General Motors and Chrysler.
Geithner has supposedly ruled out the bankruptcy option because when he, along with Henry Paulson and Ben Bernanke, tried letting Lehman Brothers go under last fall, it didn't turn out very well. Of course, it is not necessary to go the route of an uncontrolled bankruptcy that Geithner and Co. pursued with Lehman.
The government could set up an arranged bankruptcy under which creditors have accepted conditions in advance. While this may not be easy to negotiate, the government does have enormous bargaining power in pursuing such a deal. The creditors (other than insured deposits, which will be paid in full) of these banks may end up with nothing if the government just let the banks sink.
The prospect of even an arranged bankruptcy of a major bank will undoubtedly shake up markets, but many safeguards have been put in place since the Lehman collapse. If the stock market goes down for a few weeks or months, who cares? Running the economy to serve the stock market is a sure recipe for disaster; if President Obama fixes the economy, the stock market will do just fine in the long run.
Anyhow, the Geithner crew insists that there are no alternatives to his plan; we have to just keep giving hundreds of billions of dollars to the banks. Perhaps Geithner is right. But before we throw such huge sums away, further enriching the bankers who wrecked the economy, maybe we should get a second opinion.
Suppose that Congress appropriated a modest chunk of money to have independent economists put together teams to construct alternative plans. Why not give M.I.T. professor Simon Johnson, a former chief economist of the IMF, $5 million to hire a crew to outline his preferred path? Congress could give Joe Stiglitz, a Nobel Prize winner and one-time chief economist to President Clinton, who is also a harsh critic of the Geithner plan, a similar sum to put together his own team.
These economists could develop their best plans and put them out for public consumption. Geithner's crew can then tell us why their plans are unworkable and we must instead hand over the money to banks.
Given how much money Geithner wants to spend - putting it in the hands of the folks that brought on this economic crisis - it would seem appropriate to first examine all the alternatives. After all, we could find out what our options are in this case for the price of just a few A.I.G. executive bonuses. That has to be a good deal in anyone's book.
Dean Baker is the co-director of the Center for Economic and Policy Research (CEPR). He is the author of The Conservative Nanny State: How the Wealthy Use the Government to Stay Rich and Get Richer ( www.conservativenannystate.org) and the more recently published Plunder and Blunder: The Rise and Fall of The Bubble Economy. He also has a blog, "Beat the Press," where he discusses the media's coverage of economic issues. You can find it at the American Prospect's web site.
by Dean Baker
Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner wants to have the government lend up to a trillion dollars to hedge funds, private equity, funds and the banks themselves to clear their books of toxic assets. The plan implies a substantial subsidy to the banks. It is likely to result in the disposal of these assets at far above market value, with the government picking up the losses.
As much as we all want to help out the Wall Street bankers in their hour of need, taxpayers may reasonably ask whether this is the best use of our money. After all, the $1 trillion that is being set aside for this latest TARP variation is equal to 300 million SCHIP kid years. Congress has had heated debates over sums that were a small fraction of this size. To give another useful measuring stick, the Geithner plan could fund 1 million of the Woodstock museums that were the main prop of Senator McCain's presidential campaign.
The core problem is that many of our big banks are bankrupt. If they had to acknowledge the losses that they have incurred on their housing related loans (and increasing their loans in commercial real estate) Citigroup, Bank of America, and many other large banks would be insolvent. Thus far, they have avoided reality by keeping these loans on their books at inflated prices.
The Geithner plan is an effort to rescue the banks by using government funding to prop up the price of these bad loans to levels that will allow the banks to stay solvent. It is not clear that the plan is big enough to accomplish this goal, but that is the basic intention. If it doesn't work, then presumably Geithner will come out with another TARP permutation that involves giving the banks even more money.
There is an alternative. Rather than using government money to keep them alive, we could force the banks to go through a type of managed bankruptcy process like the one that is currently being proposed for General Motors and Chrysler.
Geithner has supposedly ruled out the bankruptcy option because when he, along with Henry Paulson and Ben Bernanke, tried letting Lehman Brothers go under last fall, it didn't turn out very well. Of course, it is not necessary to go the route of an uncontrolled bankruptcy that Geithner and Co. pursued with Lehman.
The government could set up an arranged bankruptcy under which creditors have accepted conditions in advance. While this may not be easy to negotiate, the government does have enormous bargaining power in pursuing such a deal. The creditors (other than insured deposits, which will be paid in full) of these banks may end up with nothing if the government just let the banks sink.
The prospect of even an arranged bankruptcy of a major bank will undoubtedly shake up markets, but many safeguards have been put in place since the Lehman collapse. If the stock market goes down for a few weeks or months, who cares? Running the economy to serve the stock market is a sure recipe for disaster; if President Obama fixes the economy, the stock market will do just fine in the long run.
Anyhow, the Geithner crew insists that there are no alternatives to his plan; we have to just keep giving hundreds of billions of dollars to the banks. Perhaps Geithner is right. But before we throw such huge sums away, further enriching the bankers who wrecked the economy, maybe we should get a second opinion.
Suppose that Congress appropriated a modest chunk of money to have independent economists put together teams to construct alternative plans. Why not give M.I.T. professor Simon Johnson, a former chief economist of the IMF, $5 million to hire a crew to outline his preferred path? Congress could give Joe Stiglitz, a Nobel Prize winner and one-time chief economist to President Clinton, who is also a harsh critic of the Geithner plan, a similar sum to put together his own team.
These economists could develop their best plans and put them out for public consumption. Geithner's crew can then tell us why their plans are unworkable and we must instead hand over the money to banks.
Given how much money Geithner wants to spend - putting it in the hands of the folks that brought on this economic crisis - it would seem appropriate to first examine all the alternatives. After all, we could find out what our options are in this case for the price of just a few A.I.G. executive bonuses. That has to be a good deal in anyone's book.
Dean Baker is the co-director of the Center for Economic and Policy Research (CEPR). He is the author of The Conservative Nanny State: How the Wealthy Use the Government to Stay Rich and Get Richer ( www.conservativenannystate.org) and the more recently published Plunder and Blunder: The Rise and Fall of The Bubble Economy. He also has a blog, "Beat the Press," where he discusses the media's coverage of economic issues. You can find it at the American Prospect's web site.
Thousands Flee Bomb Attacks by US Drones
From: www.commondreams.org
by Daud Khattakin and Christina Lamb
AMERICAN drone attacks on the border between Afghanistan and Pakistan are causing a massive humanitarian emergency, Pakistani officials claimed after a new attack yesterday killed 13 people.
File photo shows a US "Predator" drone passing overhead at a forward operating base near Kandahar. (AFP/Joel Saget)The dead and injured included foreign militants, but women and children were also killed when two missiles hit a house in the village of Data Khel, near the Afghan border, according to local officials.
As many as 1m people have fled their homes in the Tribal Areas to escape attacks by the unmanned spy planes as well as bombings by the Pakistani army. In Bajaur agency entire villages have been flattened by Pakistani troops under growing American pressure to act against Al-Qaeda militants, who have made the area their base.
Kacha Garhi is one of 11 tented camps across Pakistan's frontier province once used by Afghan refugees and now inhabited by hundreds of thousands of Pakistanis made homeless in their own land.So far 546,000 have registered as internally displaced people (IDPs) according to figures provided by Rabia Ali, spokesman for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, and Maqbool Shah Roghani, administrator for IDPs at the Commission for Afghan Refugees.
The commissioner's office says there are thousands more unregistered people who have taken refuge with relatives and friends or who are in rented accommodation.
Jamil Amjad, the commissioner in charge of the refugees, says the government is running short of resources to feed and shelter such large numbers. A fortnight ago two refugees were killed and six injured in clashes with police during protests over shortages of water, food and tents.
On the road outside Kacha Garhi camp, eight-year-old Zafarullah and his little brother are among a number of children begging for coins and scraps. "I want to go back to my village and school," he said.
With the attacks increasing, refugees have little hope of returning home and conditions in the camps will worsen as summer approaches and the temperatures soar.
Many have terrible stories. Baksha Zeb lost everything when his village, Anayat Kalay in Bajaur, was demolished by Pakistani forces. His eight-year-old son is a kidney patient needing dialysis and he has been left with no means to pay.
"Our houses have been flattened, our cattle killed and our farms and crops destroyed," he complained. "There is not a single structure in my village still standing. There is no way we can go back."
He sold his taxi to pay for food for his family and treatment for his son but the money has almost run out. "God bestowed me with a son after 15 years of marriage," he said. "Now I have no job and I don't know how we will survive."
Pakistani forces say they have killed 1,500 militants since launching antiTaliban operations in Bajaur in August. Locals who fled claim that only civilians were killed.
Zeb said he saw dozens of his friends and relatives killed. Villagers were forced to leave bodies unburied as they fled.
Pakistani officials say drone attacks have been stepped up since President Barack Obama took office in Washington, killing at least 81 people. A suicide attacker blew himself up inside a paramilitary base in Islamabad, killing six soldiers and wounding five yesterday.
by Daud Khattakin and Christina Lamb
AMERICAN drone attacks on the border between Afghanistan and Pakistan are causing a massive humanitarian emergency, Pakistani officials claimed after a new attack yesterday killed 13 people.
File photo shows a US "Predator" drone passing overhead at a forward operating base near Kandahar. (AFP/Joel Saget)The dead and injured included foreign militants, but women and children were also killed when two missiles hit a house in the village of Data Khel, near the Afghan border, according to local officials.
As many as 1m people have fled their homes in the Tribal Areas to escape attacks by the unmanned spy planes as well as bombings by the Pakistani army. In Bajaur agency entire villages have been flattened by Pakistani troops under growing American pressure to act against Al-Qaeda militants, who have made the area their base.
Kacha Garhi is one of 11 tented camps across Pakistan's frontier province once used by Afghan refugees and now inhabited by hundreds of thousands of Pakistanis made homeless in their own land.So far 546,000 have registered as internally displaced people (IDPs) according to figures provided by Rabia Ali, spokesman for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, and Maqbool Shah Roghani, administrator for IDPs at the Commission for Afghan Refugees.
The commissioner's office says there are thousands more unregistered people who have taken refuge with relatives and friends or who are in rented accommodation.
Jamil Amjad, the commissioner in charge of the refugees, says the government is running short of resources to feed and shelter such large numbers. A fortnight ago two refugees were killed and six injured in clashes with police during protests over shortages of water, food and tents.
On the road outside Kacha Garhi camp, eight-year-old Zafarullah and his little brother are among a number of children begging for coins and scraps. "I want to go back to my village and school," he said.
With the attacks increasing, refugees have little hope of returning home and conditions in the camps will worsen as summer approaches and the temperatures soar.
Many have terrible stories. Baksha Zeb lost everything when his village, Anayat Kalay in Bajaur, was demolished by Pakistani forces. His eight-year-old son is a kidney patient needing dialysis and he has been left with no means to pay.
"Our houses have been flattened, our cattle killed and our farms and crops destroyed," he complained. "There is not a single structure in my village still standing. There is no way we can go back."
He sold his taxi to pay for food for his family and treatment for his son but the money has almost run out. "God bestowed me with a son after 15 years of marriage," he said. "Now I have no job and I don't know how we will survive."
Pakistani forces say they have killed 1,500 militants since launching antiTaliban operations in Bajaur in August. Locals who fled claim that only civilians were killed.
Zeb said he saw dozens of his friends and relatives killed. Villagers were forced to leave bodies unburied as they fled.
Pakistani officials say drone attacks have been stepped up since President Barack Obama took office in Washington, killing at least 81 people. A suicide attacker blew himself up inside a paramilitary base in Islamabad, killing six soldiers and wounding five yesterday.
Saturday, April 04, 2009
The Muslims who can say 'No'
From: www.mediamonitors.net
By Mohamed Elmasry
"If Muslims are to meet, endure and transcend future trials and defeats, for trials and defeats there will certainly be, they must see the future as part of the sweep of history, and know that they have a place in the immense procession of hope for humankind."
Of all those who will feel the blows of the future, none will suffer more than the Muslims. They will bear the full agony of watching and waiting for signs of change from Obama's U.S. that may be very long in coming, if at all.
What makes things worse is a pervasive culture of defeat among today’s Muslims, even among their elites. Many Muslim countries are under military occupation; others are politically pressured to hand over their resources to oppressor nations; still others are forced to buy military hardware that they can neither afford nor use to defend themselves. These countries are afraid to say ‘no’ to oppression, even though their Holy Book teaches that Muslims should unite and resist both external and internal oppression.
Sadly, even though the Muslim masses will wish for a just society, they will witness a continuation of the old order: economic, social, and political injustice based on wars that exploit land and people for the rich and powerful few. Muslims may be facing a tragedy greater than any inflicted upon them since 1492 when the last peaceful superpower of Europe came to an end.
If this tragedy is to be avoided, Muslims must develop a new mindset. As the first generation of Muslims did some 1400 years ago, today’s Muslims must preserve human integrity from the destruction and misery caused by imperialism and exploitation. To do that, they must learn to say ‘no.’
Many historians of modern Catholic Spain have admitted that their country was never as prosperous or its wealth as equitably distributed, as it was during the 700 years of Muslim rule. Muslims transformed southern Spain into a superpower that benefited all humanity. Science and literature were world class; large estates were divided among a prosperous class of small farmers; trade flourished as towns exchanged their products for those form Africa, Persia, and India.
The first university of Europe was founded at Cordova under Muslim rule. It had thousands of students from Asia, Africa, and Christian Europe. Learning was greatly encouraged. The people could read and write. Even Catholic nobles were known to come to Muslims for medical treatment.
The Western historian Professor J.J. Sanders described Europe at the time as follows: the West had remained an area of poverty and ignorance until the 10th century, precariously protecting itself from invaders’ attacks from sea and land, whereas Islam had been enjoying internal peace and a splendid and impressive urban culture for four centuries.
Today, Muslims are disoriented and disengaged, for they are living in an age that no longer waits patiently through this life for the rewards of the next. They have become estranged from creating political capital for the public good, and are therefore diminished, as are we all. Muslims cannot help living in history; they can only fail to be aware of it.
If Muslims are to meet, endure and transcend future trials and defeats, for trials and defeats there will certainly be, they must see the future as part of the sweep of history, and know that they have a place in the immense procession of hope for humankind.
Muslims must build their political capital on establishing unity and resisting evil, but they cannot do it alone. They need enablers, including: a strong and fair economy; political reform; an education system that emphasizes languages, religion and literature; high spending on research and development; and military training for the masses to resist aggression.
The road toward saying ‘no’ to occupation, to exploitation, to oppression, to poverty, to economical and social injustice, and to the lack of decent employment, health care and education, is risky. But Qur’anic teachings give Muslims a programmatic approach:
1. God is the real Provider, hence Muslims should not fear that by saying ‘no’ to the powers of evil they would be deprived from material provision (65:2-3).
2. Even if the powers of evil collectively gather against the much weaker power of good, the power of good will triumph (3:173-175).
3. God’s help is the only one needed and is sufficient for the Muslims who follow His guidance (36:39).
4. God makes it a duty for the oppressed to be proactive and resist the powers of evil for they will be greatly rewarded (4: 97-100).
Despite the odds, we have cause for optimism because it, or something like it, has been done before. Over 20 years ago, Shintaro Ishihara wrote a best seller, "The Japan That Can Say No-Why Japan Will be First Among Equals". Every October 28, the Greeks mark "Okhi" Day. "Okhi" means "no" in Greek, and the event commemorates the day in 1940 when Prime Minister Ionannis Metaxas rejected Italy’s ultimatum to allow Axis troops to enter Greece.
Now, it is time for Muslim peoples, not governments, to say ‘no’, and to join a global, grassroots movement to make a just society a reality. Are we ready?
By Mohamed Elmasry
"If Muslims are to meet, endure and transcend future trials and defeats, for trials and defeats there will certainly be, they must see the future as part of the sweep of history, and know that they have a place in the immense procession of hope for humankind."
Of all those who will feel the blows of the future, none will suffer more than the Muslims. They will bear the full agony of watching and waiting for signs of change from Obama's U.S. that may be very long in coming, if at all.
What makes things worse is a pervasive culture of defeat among today’s Muslims, even among their elites. Many Muslim countries are under military occupation; others are politically pressured to hand over their resources to oppressor nations; still others are forced to buy military hardware that they can neither afford nor use to defend themselves. These countries are afraid to say ‘no’ to oppression, even though their Holy Book teaches that Muslims should unite and resist both external and internal oppression.
Sadly, even though the Muslim masses will wish for a just society, they will witness a continuation of the old order: economic, social, and political injustice based on wars that exploit land and people for the rich and powerful few. Muslims may be facing a tragedy greater than any inflicted upon them since 1492 when the last peaceful superpower of Europe came to an end.
If this tragedy is to be avoided, Muslims must develop a new mindset. As the first generation of Muslims did some 1400 years ago, today’s Muslims must preserve human integrity from the destruction and misery caused by imperialism and exploitation. To do that, they must learn to say ‘no.’
Many historians of modern Catholic Spain have admitted that their country was never as prosperous or its wealth as equitably distributed, as it was during the 700 years of Muslim rule. Muslims transformed southern Spain into a superpower that benefited all humanity. Science and literature were world class; large estates were divided among a prosperous class of small farmers; trade flourished as towns exchanged their products for those form Africa, Persia, and India.
The first university of Europe was founded at Cordova under Muslim rule. It had thousands of students from Asia, Africa, and Christian Europe. Learning was greatly encouraged. The people could read and write. Even Catholic nobles were known to come to Muslims for medical treatment.
The Western historian Professor J.J. Sanders described Europe at the time as follows: the West had remained an area of poverty and ignorance until the 10th century, precariously protecting itself from invaders’ attacks from sea and land, whereas Islam had been enjoying internal peace and a splendid and impressive urban culture for four centuries.
Today, Muslims are disoriented and disengaged, for they are living in an age that no longer waits patiently through this life for the rewards of the next. They have become estranged from creating political capital for the public good, and are therefore diminished, as are we all. Muslims cannot help living in history; they can only fail to be aware of it.
If Muslims are to meet, endure and transcend future trials and defeats, for trials and defeats there will certainly be, they must see the future as part of the sweep of history, and know that they have a place in the immense procession of hope for humankind.
Muslims must build their political capital on establishing unity and resisting evil, but they cannot do it alone. They need enablers, including: a strong and fair economy; political reform; an education system that emphasizes languages, religion and literature; high spending on research and development; and military training for the masses to resist aggression.
The road toward saying ‘no’ to occupation, to exploitation, to oppression, to poverty, to economical and social injustice, and to the lack of decent employment, health care and education, is risky. But Qur’anic teachings give Muslims a programmatic approach:
1. God is the real Provider, hence Muslims should not fear that by saying ‘no’ to the powers of evil they would be deprived from material provision (65:2-3).
2. Even if the powers of evil collectively gather against the much weaker power of good, the power of good will triumph (3:173-175).
3. God’s help is the only one needed and is sufficient for the Muslims who follow His guidance (36:39).
4. God makes it a duty for the oppressed to be proactive and resist the powers of evil for they will be greatly rewarded (4: 97-100).
Despite the odds, we have cause for optimism because it, or something like it, has been done before. Over 20 years ago, Shintaro Ishihara wrote a best seller, "The Japan That Can Say No-Why Japan Will be First Among Equals". Every October 28, the Greeks mark "Okhi" Day. "Okhi" means "no" in Greek, and the event commemorates the day in 1940 when Prime Minister Ionannis Metaxas rejected Italy’s ultimatum to allow Axis troops to enter Greece.
Now, it is time for Muslim peoples, not governments, to say ‘no’, and to join a global, grassroots movement to make a just society a reality. Are we ready?
Always Money for War, Executive Bailouts, but No Pension Bailouts
From: www.mediamonitors.net
by Stan Moore
"If Americans want change they can believe in, they need to make sure the government bails out pension plans first and executives last."
The U.S. Government, both political parties included, always finds funding for another war or an expansion of existing wars. Even if it means borrowing from foreign governments and placing the debt burden on future generations of U.S. citizens, the wars must go on.
The same is true with regard to bank bailouts and trillions of dollars of financing for speculative debt, as in derivative investments. No price is too large to pay to help billionaires remain as billionaires and millionaires as millionaires. In this process, multimillion dollar individual bonuses are par for the course. And executives who end up losing their jobs after a period of subpar performance always end up with golden parachutes worth millions of dollars to ease their slide into the world of the unemployed.
However, if you worked for a wage for decades for an automaker or an airline or other business, and that business reaches a position of financial difficulty, not only is your job at stake, but so is your retirement pension. Your health benefits, too, can disappear into the ether as soon as a bankruptcy court or the Congress intervenes to keep your company afloat. Companies are important and they count in the accounting for the economy by the government. Employees and pensions are considered liabilities and discarded as such.
Millions of American workers are at risk of losing all the retirement benefits they earned according to work contracts. Companies build up huge debts, that can include retirement expenses for past and current employees, and then they dump those contracts when financial trouble appears. Better to drop employee retirements for those working thirty years than to drop the golden parachute payouts for executives who come in like mercenaries to reshuffle the company books and they parachute off to retirement.
Barack Obama offers no change in this regard. He wants to keep the economy afloat by shoring up the top-heavy structure of finance and executive business administration across the board. But the pensions are off the table. Of course, Obama sympathizes with the workers and knows how tough their situation is. But there just is not enough money to go around, and the priorities are set.
If Americans want change they can believe in, they need to make sure the government bails out pension plans first and executives last.
by Stan Moore
"If Americans want change they can believe in, they need to make sure the government bails out pension plans first and executives last."
The U.S. Government, both political parties included, always finds funding for another war or an expansion of existing wars. Even if it means borrowing from foreign governments and placing the debt burden on future generations of U.S. citizens, the wars must go on.
The same is true with regard to bank bailouts and trillions of dollars of financing for speculative debt, as in derivative investments. No price is too large to pay to help billionaires remain as billionaires and millionaires as millionaires. In this process, multimillion dollar individual bonuses are par for the course. And executives who end up losing their jobs after a period of subpar performance always end up with golden parachutes worth millions of dollars to ease their slide into the world of the unemployed.
However, if you worked for a wage for decades for an automaker or an airline or other business, and that business reaches a position of financial difficulty, not only is your job at stake, but so is your retirement pension. Your health benefits, too, can disappear into the ether as soon as a bankruptcy court or the Congress intervenes to keep your company afloat. Companies are important and they count in the accounting for the economy by the government. Employees and pensions are considered liabilities and discarded as such.
Millions of American workers are at risk of losing all the retirement benefits they earned according to work contracts. Companies build up huge debts, that can include retirement expenses for past and current employees, and then they dump those contracts when financial trouble appears. Better to drop employee retirements for those working thirty years than to drop the golden parachute payouts for executives who come in like mercenaries to reshuffle the company books and they parachute off to retirement.
Barack Obama offers no change in this regard. He wants to keep the economy afloat by shoring up the top-heavy structure of finance and executive business administration across the board. But the pensions are off the table. Of course, Obama sympathizes with the workers and knows how tough their situation is. But there just is not enough money to go around, and the priorities are set.
If Americans want change they can believe in, they need to make sure the government bails out pension plans first and executives last.
Friday, April 03, 2009
Greed and Stupidity
From: www.nytimes.com
By DAVID BROOKS
Published: April 2, 2009
What happened to the global economy? We seemed to be chugging along, enjoying moderate business cycles and unprecedented global growth. All of a sudden, all hell broke loose.
There are many theories about what happened, but two general narratives seem to be gaining prominence, which we will call the greed narrative and the stupidity narrative. The two overlap, but they lead to different ways of thinking about where we go from here.
The best single encapsulation of the greed narrative is an essay called “The Quiet Coup,” by Simon Johnson in The Atlantic (available online now).
Johnson begins with a trend. Between 1973 and 1985, the U.S. financial sector accounted for about 16 percent of domestic corporate profits. In the 1990s, it ranged from 21 percent to 30 percent. This decade, it soared to 41 percent.
In other words, Wall Street got huge. As it got huge, its prestige grew. Its compensation packages grew. Its political power grew as well. Wall Street and Washington merged as a flow of investment bankers went down to the White House and the Treasury Department.
The result was a string of legislation designed to further enhance the freedom and power of finance. Regulations separating commercial and investment banking were repealed. There were major increases in the amount of leverage allowed to investment banks.
The U.S. economy got finance-heavy and finance-mad, and finally collapsed. When it did, the elites did what all elites do. They took care of their own: “Money was used to recapitalize banks, buying shares in them on terms that were grossly favorable to the banks themselves,” Johnson writes.
In short, he argues, the U.S. financial crisis is a bigger version of the crises that have afflicted emerging-market nations for decades. An oligarchy takes control of the nation. The oligarchs get carried away and build an empire on mountains of debt. The whole thing comes crashing down. Johnson’s remedy is clear. Smash the oligarchy. Nationalize the banks. Sell them off in medium-size pieces. Revise antitrust laws so they can’t get back together. Find ways to limit executive compensation. Permanently reduce the size and power of Wall Street.
The second and, to me, more persuasive theory revolves around ignorance and uncertainty. The primary problem is not the greed of a giant oligarchy. It’s that overconfident bankers didn’t know what they were doing. They thought they had these sophisticated tools to reduce risk. But when big events — like the rise of China — fundamentally altered the world economy, their tools were worse than useless.
Many writers have described elements of this intellectual hubris. Amar Bhidé has described the fallacy of diversification. Bankers thought that if they bundled slices of many assets into giant packages then they didn’t have to perform due diligence on each one. In Wired, Felix Salmon described the false lure of the Gaussian copula function, the formula that gave finance whizzes the illusion that they could accurately calculate risks. Benoit Mandelbrot and Nassim Taleb have explained why extreme events are much more likely to disrupt financial markets than most bankers understood.
To me, the most interesting factor is the way instant communications lead to unconscious conformity. You’d think that with thousands of ideas flowing at light speed around the world, you’d get a diversity of viewpoints and expectations that would balance one another out. Instead, global communications seem to have led people in the financial subculture to adopt homogenous viewpoints. They made the same one-way bets at the same time.
Jerry Z. Muller wrote an indispensable version of the stupidity narrative in an essay called “Our Epistemological Depression” in The American magazine. What’s new about this crisis, he writes, is the central role of “opacity and pseudo-objectivity.” Banks got too big to manage. Instruments got too complex to understand. Too many people were good at math but ignorant of history.
The greed narrative leads to the conclusion that government should aggressively restructure the financial sector. The stupidity narrative is suspicious of that sort of radicalism. We’d just be trading the hubris of Wall Street for the hubris of Washington. The stupidity narrative suggests we should preserve the essential market structures, but make them more transparent, straightforward and comprehensible. Instead of rushing off to nationalize the banks, we should nurture and recapitalize what’s left of functioning markets.
Both schools agree on one thing, however. Both believe that banks are too big. Both narratives suggest we should return to the day when banks were focused institutions — when savings banks, insurance companies, brokerages and investment banks lived separate lives.
We can agree on that reform. Still, one has to choose a guiding theory. To my mind, we didn’t get into this crisis because inbred oligarchs grabbed power. We got into it because arrogant traders around the world were playing a high-stakes game they didn’t understand.
By DAVID BROOKS
Published: April 2, 2009
What happened to the global economy? We seemed to be chugging along, enjoying moderate business cycles and unprecedented global growth. All of a sudden, all hell broke loose.
There are many theories about what happened, but two general narratives seem to be gaining prominence, which we will call the greed narrative and the stupidity narrative. The two overlap, but they lead to different ways of thinking about where we go from here.
The best single encapsulation of the greed narrative is an essay called “The Quiet Coup,” by Simon Johnson in The Atlantic (available online now).
Johnson begins with a trend. Between 1973 and 1985, the U.S. financial sector accounted for about 16 percent of domestic corporate profits. In the 1990s, it ranged from 21 percent to 30 percent. This decade, it soared to 41 percent.
In other words, Wall Street got huge. As it got huge, its prestige grew. Its compensation packages grew. Its political power grew as well. Wall Street and Washington merged as a flow of investment bankers went down to the White House and the Treasury Department.
The result was a string of legislation designed to further enhance the freedom and power of finance. Regulations separating commercial and investment banking were repealed. There were major increases in the amount of leverage allowed to investment banks.
The U.S. economy got finance-heavy and finance-mad, and finally collapsed. When it did, the elites did what all elites do. They took care of their own: “Money was used to recapitalize banks, buying shares in them on terms that were grossly favorable to the banks themselves,” Johnson writes.
In short, he argues, the U.S. financial crisis is a bigger version of the crises that have afflicted emerging-market nations for decades. An oligarchy takes control of the nation. The oligarchs get carried away and build an empire on mountains of debt. The whole thing comes crashing down. Johnson’s remedy is clear. Smash the oligarchy. Nationalize the banks. Sell them off in medium-size pieces. Revise antitrust laws so they can’t get back together. Find ways to limit executive compensation. Permanently reduce the size and power of Wall Street.
The second and, to me, more persuasive theory revolves around ignorance and uncertainty. The primary problem is not the greed of a giant oligarchy. It’s that overconfident bankers didn’t know what they were doing. They thought they had these sophisticated tools to reduce risk. But when big events — like the rise of China — fundamentally altered the world economy, their tools were worse than useless.
Many writers have described elements of this intellectual hubris. Amar Bhidé has described the fallacy of diversification. Bankers thought that if they bundled slices of many assets into giant packages then they didn’t have to perform due diligence on each one. In Wired, Felix Salmon described the false lure of the Gaussian copula function, the formula that gave finance whizzes the illusion that they could accurately calculate risks. Benoit Mandelbrot and Nassim Taleb have explained why extreme events are much more likely to disrupt financial markets than most bankers understood.
To me, the most interesting factor is the way instant communications lead to unconscious conformity. You’d think that with thousands of ideas flowing at light speed around the world, you’d get a diversity of viewpoints and expectations that would balance one another out. Instead, global communications seem to have led people in the financial subculture to adopt homogenous viewpoints. They made the same one-way bets at the same time.
Jerry Z. Muller wrote an indispensable version of the stupidity narrative in an essay called “Our Epistemological Depression” in The American magazine. What’s new about this crisis, he writes, is the central role of “opacity and pseudo-objectivity.” Banks got too big to manage. Instruments got too complex to understand. Too many people were good at math but ignorant of history.
The greed narrative leads to the conclusion that government should aggressively restructure the financial sector. The stupidity narrative is suspicious of that sort of radicalism. We’d just be trading the hubris of Wall Street for the hubris of Washington. The stupidity narrative suggests we should preserve the essential market structures, but make them more transparent, straightforward and comprehensible. Instead of rushing off to nationalize the banks, we should nurture and recapitalize what’s left of functioning markets.
Both schools agree on one thing, however. Both believe that banks are too big. Both narratives suggest we should return to the day when banks were focused institutions — when savings banks, insurance companies, brokerages and investment banks lived separate lives.
We can agree on that reform. Still, one has to choose a guiding theory. To my mind, we didn’t get into this crisis because inbred oligarchs grabbed power. We got into it because arrogant traders around the world were playing a high-stakes game they didn’t understand.
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