My Path

The much needed holiday (Day 3,4 & 5)

2010-12-17T10:59:00.001+08:00

Day 3

My day was filled with reading, doing house-chores, preparing for travel...

Day 4

It's cleaning-the-house-before-traveling-day...and everybody has a part...for me..its cooking!

We left the house at around 6.00 pm... stopped at Ayer Keroh for prayer and meal at around 9.30 pm...arrived in Nilai(it was nearly midnight)- check in at Hotel Seri Nilai

Day 5

Our flight is at 3.00 pm today...

SABAH here we come!

Please pray for our safe journey...^_^

The much needed holiday (Day 2)

2010-12-14T23:33:00.000+08:00

Day 2

Baca buku, tambah ilmu. Hidup bererti, Syurga menunggu.

This is written on the whiteboard in my house..hence became the very inspiration to my holiday plan...read...read...and more reading.

Reading has always been my passion...as I have written in my previous post...in fact we have been programed to love books... and find reading therapeutic.

Browsing through the many books I have... and since seeking inspiration is the main aim of my holiday... I decided to re-read the book written by one and only amazing mother. She is my first mentor... and will always be the first person I would go to for advice. She is the mentor that whenever I have a problem.... would point out what's missing in me and what I need to do..even if it involves..or seems like the fault of othe people. She never allows me to give excuses or blame other people. If other people find benefit in her work...then I should be the one who gets the most benefit. Thank you Allah for giving me such a wonderful mother.

Anak-anakku Bangunlah is a compilation of her writing that she wrote while we were growin up... we were her inspiration...the advices are for us first and fore most.... I grew up with it...I was the one who typed it up for her when she used to find using a computer a nuisance (of course she's much better than me now!). Re-reading it is like re-living my childhood.

Then I will finish up her second book (which I have been putting aside for a while) Anak-anakku Berjuanglah which contains her hopes and dreams for us....

Thank you ALLAH and I love U MUM!

The much needed holiday (Day 1)

2010-12-13T18:18:00.000+08:00

This two weeks holiday is not something I initially planned. The plan was to take a weeks holiday to Sabah with my family. However, being drowned in work, I'm starting to realize that I'm beginning to loose myself (my passion, my enthusiasm)...I was no longer concerned for other people (I feel really disconnected...and a lot of my actions were pretentious), I easily get emotional, I allow myself to feel unnecessary sadness, stress and I constantly beat myself up...and it's starting to affect me physically.

This two weeks holiday is not just a holiday for me to rest and laze around...or run away from the tons of work in KTD...but it is more of a process I need to go through...to refresh myself...so that I will be stronger and able to face the challenges ahead..InsyaAllah..and in Allah I seek guidance.

The journey started last night as soon as I got on the 8 PM bus to Johor Bharu. The lights was off so there was not much I could do...I started to put together my holiday plan...till I feel asleep.

The bus arrived at Machap..around 6 am...the passengers got of for Subuh prayer then the bus set of again at around 6.30 am. I was fully awake and decided to fill the rest of my journey...reading. It so happens that I have the book 'My Beloved Son - Imam al-Ghazali' in my bag (this was actually a translating project my mum gave to me).

By the time the bus arrived at 'Sri Putri stop' I nearly finished the book..got of...continued reading while waiting for my dad....finished the book and my dad pulled over. Alhamdulillah..I did not feel dizzy (like what we usually feel when we attempt to read in a moving vehicle) maybe because I was so lost in reading..... What I did feel was the weight of the advices contained in the book.... wow..what a way to start the day! Reading the words of a man like Imam al-Ghazali was like giving myself an injection of energy...I didn't feel tired nor sleepy.

The rest of my day is filled with BEING WITH and BEING OF SERVICE to my family...and moving on to the next book in my reading list....

more updates tomorrow....insyaAllah (^_^)

My Book Addiction

2010-06-29T00:14:00.002+08:00

Today I had the luxury to take a trip to Angsana Shopping Mall with my brother (Qayyim) and sister (Balqis).

Among the many shops, the book shop is a compulsory visit (it's just something we are trained with)...we just love books!

If I were to put together all the book we have, we could open a small library...seriously.

I still remember when I was in Rosebery Primary School, Loughborough, UK; we had a reading corner similar to the picture below but with more shelves and books. We were asked to read from the reading corner during reading time.

I was a bit 'naughty' because even if it's not reading time, whenever I feel what the teacher is teaching is boring, I would smuggle a book and read it from under the desk. Or whenever we sat at the reading corner listening to the teacher reading/explaining something, I would hide behind my friends and read a book. As a result I finished reading all the books in lest than a year so I was given the privilege to go the library that were only allowed for year 5&6 and I was a year 4!

So, in Angsana I bought two books!

One is a PTS novel titled 'Diari Mat Despatched'

I've read a few chapter and just can't put it down. The exterior look like a novel for kids...but as you start reading...it really is a great witty novel for the whole family.I laughed from the first sentence and the jokes just keep getting better. Try reading it! I'm determined to finish it before boarding the bus tomorrow.

The other one is by Malcolm Gladwell: What the dog saw

It is a compilation of thought provoking stories which I truly love and I only found out that Malcolm Gladwell is the author of three other great books:

I'm determine to buy all of them!

Got to get back to my reading...and opps..I have some sewing to do as well...[HAPPY!]

ALHAMDULILLAH :-)

ALLAH’S LOVE

2010-04-22T11:48:00.002+08:00

As cliché as it may sound ‘ALLAH’S LOVE’ is all around us…we just need to look, listen and feel a little bit harder. In times of hardship we question…where is Allah’s love? Why isn’t Allah helping us?...consider this…that the very hardship you’re going through…is Allah’s love….because without hardship and challenges… you can never grow…and become greater and more amazing than today.

I am blessed to be in a place where Allah’s love is abundant…mainly because there are people around me…that loves me enough to point it out and remind me of it.

I’d like to share a little bit of my experiences…that really made me sure that Allah is always guiding me…

I recently took a week’s holiday….mainly to attend the KL Book Fair then meet a few friends from Cardiff....headed home… then met another friend currently working in UTM. Being new in the working environment felt the pressure from her colleagues…not on work related stuffs but on how to dress…what car she should be buying…(material related issues). It is as if you have to dress a certain way, own certain things to be acknowledge by the society. We discussed this issue at length and came to a conclusion that these types of acknowledgements are temporary and do not last long. It is better to focus on developing our potentials and to be acknowledged for the contributions we have made to the society.

Later that night as I was reciting the Qur’an…I came upon surah Az-Zukhruf: 31-45 that stresses out on the fact that wealth is not a sign of divine pleasure. ..Subhanallah..this was the very thing me and my friend talked about…now I’m 100% sure! Alhamdulillah

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Returning to KTD, I attended the weekly ‘morning meet’ (every Monday) where we would recite a few verses from the Qur’an and listen to reminders. It so happens that the verses we read that morning was from surah Al-An’am (36-44). What really caught my attention was verse 40-41:

40. Say (O MuhammadSAW ): "Tell me if Allah's Torment comes upon you, or the Hour comes upon you, would you then call upon any one other than Allah? (Reply) if you are truthful!"

41. Nay! To Him Alone you call, and, if He will, He would remove that (distress) for which you call upon Him, and you forget at that time whatever partners you joined with Him (in worship)!

42. Verily, We sent (Messengers) to many nations before you (O Muhammad SAW ). And We seized them with extreme poverty (or loss in wealth) and loss in health with calamities so that they might believe with humility.

43. When Our Torment reached them, why then did they not believe with humility? But their hearts became hardened, and Shaitan (Satan) made fair seeming to them that which they used to do.

44. So, when they forgot (the warning) with which they had been reminded, We opened to them the gates of every (pleasant) thing, until in the midst of their enjoyment in that which they were given, all of a sudden, We took them to punishment, and lo! They were plunged into destruction with deep regrets and sorrows.

What a way to start the day...Thank you ALLAH!

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a wake up call...

2010-03-15T11:52:00.004+08:00

As human beings it is so easy to forget…

We forget our promises...to Allah, to our parents, to our family, to friends…and to ourselves

We forget that this life is only temporary

We forget that death is real…and will surely happen...but are we ready?

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Last Thursday everyone was excited about the announcement of the SPM result, so was my family… a cousin of mine was receiving his SPM result. Little did we know that the call we made to my grandparents’ house led to what became the saddest day for my family. We were told that my two other cousins met with an accident and one of them died.

It didn’t get to me to me at first… I was just shocked… and a part of me just refuse to believe the news.

It was not until the next day that it really hit me… this is REAL and my cousin has passed away. My mother called me from kampung. She described to me the event in details… how as soon as my mother stepped into the house, my uncle hugged her… so tight… refusing to let go…as if trying to release all the pain that he is carrying. And how my aunt unable to do anything… she had to be told and led to do everything.

Over the phone we spent the whole hour crying at the condition of my uncle and aunt… and for the fact that maybe we have been drifting for too long… we discussed at length the fact that we need to become stronger… so that in times like this… we can remind each other… that Allah is always there… and to never blame Allah for what has happened… and to Allah we ask for guidance and strength.

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We watch/read news of accidents everyday… and the one thing that normally crosses our minds is that: Thank God it’s not my family. Well this time around it’s our turn…the accident made headline in Sinar Harian (Selangor)

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Yesterday, we received news of two accidents involving KTD students. One occurred near KTD (involving Mohd Fadzil Liba), and another in Kangar (involving Suhaib Shapiee). Both were in serious conditions, but safe ALHAMDULILLAH.

To Suhaib… the trial you will go through after this will make you a better and stronger servant of Allah. Also remember… we’ll be here to support you… always

To Pak Ngah and Mak Ngah… Allah loves Ikah… that is why HE took her…to protect her… and for her to be there… waiting for you… InsyaAllah. We all love you and will be here to support you.

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To me: these pass few days has been a wake up call…a reminder to not waste a single moment of my life…to appreciate the people around me… to grab any chance that comes by… to make my day..everyday worthwhile…to set bigger goals and strive to be better everyday… and to make sure I finish the things in my TO DO LIST

How Life Unfolds

2010-02-17T17:47:00.003+08:00

It is just amazing how life unfolds before you...

How Allah Wills what is best for you....not necessarily what you desire but certainly the BEST for you.

In my part, what I'm going through, where I am, the people I'm with are all certainly what I truly need... to make me grow.

Life right now is hectic...but in a good way. I will surely update on the current happenings in my life..very soon.

missing BUTE PARK, CARDIFF

2009-08-11T16:00:00.007+08:00

It has been about a year since I left Cardiff and the one thing I miss the most is BUTE PARK, Cardiff.

It is located at the heart of Cardiff, surrounded by the city centre and Cardiff University's buildings.

Here are some pictures of the park for you to enjoy.

A few meters from the main gate, you will see a group of stones that we like to call 'mini-stonehenge'

Racial Discrimination / Racism - Part 3

2009-06-16T11:45:00.003+08:00

In this entry, I would like t bring to you what Islam says about racial discrimination/racism.

Islamic scholars have been asked and questioned on this matter. One of the answer can be found here.

Racist against other religions?

These are the verses in the Qur'an regarding other religions.

"Say: We believe
In God, and in what
Has been revealed to us
And what was revealed
To Abraham, Isma'il(Ishmael);
Isaac, Jacob, and the tribes,
And in (the Books)
Given to Moses, Jesus,
And the Prophets,
From their Lord:
We make no distinction
Between one and another
Among them and to God do we
Bow our will( in Islam)."
Holy Quran 3:84

"Let there be no compulsion in matters of Religion"
Holy Quran 2:256

"Verily, those who believe (in the Quran)
And those who follow the Jewish( scriptures)
And the Christians and the Sabians,
Any who believe in God
And the Last Day,
And work righteousness
Shall have their reward
With their Lord; on them
Shall be no fear, nor shall they grieve."
Holy Quran 2:62

Racism towards other races?

The following on the other hand are Qur'anic verses and Prophet Muhammad's sayings on the matter of races.

"Allah is to be praised and thanked for ridding us of the vices and pride
of the days of ignorance. O People! Note that all men( the noun includes
women as well) are divided in two categories only: the pious and
God-fearing who are esteemable in Allah's reckoning, and the transgressors
and hard-hearted, who are lowly and contemptible in the eye of Allah."
Prophet Muhammed, peace be upon him.

"O Mankind!
Most certainly, it is
We( God almighty) who have
Created you all from a single (pair)
Of a male and a female,
And it is we who
Have made you into
Nations and tribes,
That ye may recognise each other
(Not that ye may despise each other).
Verily, the noblest of you
In the sight of Allah
Is (he who is) the most
Righteous of you."
Holy Quran 49:13

"And mankind is naught but a single nation."
Holy Quran 2:213

"And among His Signs
Is the creation of the heavens
And the earth, and the variations
In your languages
And your colours; verily
In that are Signs
For those who know."
Holy Quran 30:22

"All men(includes women) are equal in Islam, the Arab has no superiority
over the non-Arab, nor does the non-Arab have superiority over the Arab,
save in the fear of God."
Prophet Muhammed, peace be upon him.

As I was searching for these facts, the following sayings was included as well. They are, certainly worth pondering on.

"(The Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca) was an exhilarating experience to see
people belonging to different colours, races and nationalities, kings,
heads of states and ordinary men from very poor countries all clad in two
simple white sheets praying to God without any sense of either pride or
inferiority. It was a practical manifestation of the concept of equally in
Islam."
Cassius Clay, now Muhammed Ali.

"The Europeans in South Africa dread the advent of Islam, as they( Muslims)
claim equality with the white races. They may well dread it. If brotherhood
is a sin, if it is equality of the coloured races that they dread, then
their dread is well-founded."
Mohandas K. Ghandi

"I have been struck over again by this indivisible unity of Islam that
makes a man instinctively a brother. When you meet an Egyptian, an
Algerian, an Indian and a Turk in London, what matters is that Egypt is the
motherland of one and India is the motherland of another."
Sarojini Naidu

"Never have I witnessed such sincere hospitality and the overwhelming
spirit of true brotherhood as is practised by people of all colours and
races here in this ancient Holy Land, the home of Abraham, Muhammed, and
all the other prophets of the Holy Scriptures. For the past week, I have
been utterly speechless and spellbound by the graciousness I see displayed
all around me by people of all colours."
Malcolm X

"The extinction of race consciousness as between Muslims is one of the
outstanding achievements of Islam, and in the contemporary world there is,
as it happens, a crying need for the propagation of this Islamic virtue."
Professor A.J. Toynbee in New York 1948

"I hope the time is not far off when I shall be able to unite all the wise
and educated men of all the countries and establish a uniform regime based
on the principles of the Quran which alone are true and which alone can
lead men to happiness."
Napoleon Bonaparte

In a nutshell, Islam is not a racist religion, nor does it preach racism. The peoples of
other faiths have always enjoyed religious toleration under Islam; when the
Jews were being persecuted in the rest of Europe, they found freedom and
sanctity in Muslim Spain. Their historians regard that as one of their
Golden Eras. In the Muslim countries today, Christians are permitted to
practise their faith as freely as any country; the Churches in my home town
of Abu Dhabi are large in number, and one of my closest family friends, an
Anglican priest. Inter-cultural marriages are common in Islam; I am the
composite of five different cultures.

NEXT and NISE

2009-05-18T06:38:00.004+08:00

For most students in the UK, these two terms is well understood and something to look forward to.

NEXT is short for Nasheed Extravanganza, an event held and organized every year by Sheffield University, without fail. This year (5th year), Akbar Azmi was invited to make a special performance. This is a concluding video of NEXT09.

NISE on the other hand stands for Nisa' Nasheed Extravaganza, held at Leeds University. Last year I was part of the Cardiff University Nasheed team, calling ourselves HANA HUMAIRA. We sang a malay song and a Japanese song called 'HERO' by ARASHI (this was of course my idea). To our suprise we won first place! The report can be found here. Now they are back for the second year, but the Cardiff team didn't win. That's OK because what's important is we try to give our best.

NEXT have not only successfully established a platform for the nasheed enthusiast but has also promoted Malaysia's name in UK and Ireland. The London nasheed group called Soutus Salam was interviewed by the Islam Channel and another nasheed group from Ireland, who call themselves Atap Hijau was asked to perform at Cork City Council.

Here is the video of Soutus Salam being interviewed

Sautus Salam in Islam Channel
by mrabn

and here is Atap Hijau performing at Cork City Council, Ireland.

I am really proud of them. Enjoy watching!

Racial Discrimination / Racism - Part 2

2009-05-06T11:17:00.005+08:00

Today, I want to share with you a few episodes/part of an episode from the Tyra Banks talk show.

We all know Tyra Banks as the host and creator of the show America's Next Top Model. She also has a talk show of her own. Though it is not as big as the Oprah Show or Racheal Ray's show, I do enjoy watching the show. The reason that the show is never shown in our country is I think because Tyra likes to touch on controvetial and sometimes provocative topics that may not be suitable for our society.

Regardless of all that these are some episodes that I find very beneficial to us.

These next videos is from an episode and the order of the videos may not be right but it is very interesting. I like the approach of trying out and be another race/religion to actually understand it.

Racial Discrimination / Racism - Part 1

2009-05-02T11:56:00.005+08:00

The term Racist/Racism/Racial Discrimination has been around for a long time and has been an issue debated far and wide. Due to recent events and happenings I am called to write a little on this very matter.

This piece of writing is not for the purpose of finding out what/who is right/wrong but rather for us to think about it and judge for oursleves.

In wikipedia, Racism is defined as:

Racism is the belief that race is the primary determinant of human traits and capacities and that racial differences produce an inherent superiority of a particular race.

Then the piece goes on with the UN definition on Racism:

The UN does not define "racism", however it does define "racial discrimination":

according to the United Nations Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination, the term "racial discrimination" shall mean any distinction, exclusion, restriction or preference based on race, colour, descent, or national or ethnic origin which has the purpose or effect of nullifying or impairing the recognition, enjoyment or exercise, on an equal footing, of human rights and fundamental freedoms in the political, economic, social, cultural or any other field of public life. '

This definition does not make any difference between prosecutions based on ethnicity and race, in part because the distinction between the two remains debatable among anthropologists.[3] According to British law, racial group means "any group of people who are defined by reference to their race, colour, nationality (including citizenship) or ethnic or national origin".

So, let us digest this definition for a while and I'm going leave you with a video that one might or might not agree with, but it sure is worth to ponder on.

Great Friends...alway reminds us.

2009-04-30T12:27:00.008+08:00

I just want to share an email I got today from my friend, I'm soo touched and grateful to have a great friend like her.

Picture taken at Nasheed Extravaganza, Sheffield University

Assalamualaikum Kak Faizah,

Just nak share satu pengalaman...Semalam saya pegi graduation adik saya dekat politek Port Dickson...Best la jugak...dpt rasa mcm mana org kat sini grad...cuma yang x best nyer...hanya student jer yg dok dalam dewan, parents n keluarga lain duduk luar..

So, paham2 ajer la...dah la PD tuh panas...jawab nyer berebus la dari pagi sampai ke tengah hari...panas, panas jugak tapi tetap meriah...

Malam tuh lepas sampai umah, adik saya bagi tau, kawan dier meninggal dunia dalam perjalanan balik ke rumah dari graduation tuh...Adik saya kater, dier terbayang lagi kelibat kawan dier masa naik pentas amik sijil...

Budak tuh drive balik rumah sendiri...dier mengantuk...accident kereta petang, mlm dalam kol 8.30 di sahkan meninggal..

Sedih dan insaf dengar pasal budak tuh...hari tu adalah hari gembira dia dan keluarga tp ternyata Allah lebih sayangkan dia..

Bila fikir balik, betapa lalainya saya dalam mengingati mati...padahal maut datang tak kira masa...tak kisah la kita sempat bertaubat atau tak...

Pagi tadi plak masa dalam komuter ke KL, saya kagum dgn sorg pemuda nih...nampak segak dan berjawatan tinggi. Tgk pada gaya, nampak berkarisma.

Nak jadi cerita, Seat dalam komuter penuh...so terpaksa la dier berdiri depan saya, saya duduk seat hujung dekat dgn dinding...time tuh baru kol 7 pagi...saya pon mamai-mamai plus mengantuk n letih yang tak habis lagi...

Masa tgh mamai2 tuh dengar mcm ada org mengaji...saya ckp kt diri sndri...dasat gak mimpi saya ni...siap blh mimpi org mengaji lagi...bila saya gosok2 mata, tengok depan, rupanya bukan mimpi...mmg that guy tgh mengaji dgn suara perlahan...dia ada pegang kitab kat tangan dia....penuh khusyuk...suara pun sedap...

Apa yang saya dapat, mungkin Allah nak tunjuk selama ni, berapa banyak masa yang terbazir mcm tuh ajer tanpa kita mengingatiNya... Semalam, dalam saya dan keluarga gembira coz Afiq graduate, mlm tuh dapat berita kawan Afiq meninggal lepas attend graduation...Paginya, Allah tunjukkan seorg pemuda yg masih lagi tawadhuk mengingatiNya walaupun dalam kesesakan org ramai...

Betapa kasihNya Allah pada hambaNya...walau selalu lalai, leka dan derhaka kepadaNya, dia masih sudi menitipkan nasihat dan pengajaran sbg peringatan kpd para hambaNya... Hanya Allah yang maha mengetahi segla sesuatu yang tersirat dan tersurat...

p/s : hari ni mood bercampur baur, sedih + gembira + terharu + tgh hujan kat luar dari tadi tak henti2... Ok kak Faizah...itu ajer perkongsian dari saya buat masa nih...Akak kat sana apa cerita?

Love, Ash

PAY Yourself FIRST!

2009-04-29T16:42:00.008+08:00

The first and most important financial lesson I've learnt is to pay ME first. From whatever we earn it is important to set aside a portion to pay for what we are worth.

To pay yourself first means simply this: Before you pay your bills, before you buy groceries, before you do anything else, set aside a portion of your income to save. The first bill you pay each month should be to yourself. This habit, developed early, can help a person build tremendous wealth.

Some financial 'GURU' would advice you to PAY YOURSELF 1% to 10% from your total earning, but really it is up to you. What's important is that when it comes to money, it is important to appreciate yourself first.

Normally on pay day we would be busy paying bills, debts or shopping. Pay youself as a way to say thank you and acknowledge yourself for all the hard work you have done. This is a good way to practice appreciating youself.

This 'PAY YOURSELF' money is different from savings, emergency fund, investment or any other 'SAFE' you might have. This is entirely for you! so, whenever you decide to spend it, spend it for you : buy toys (Cars, Games, etc.), go on holiday, shopping etc FOR YOU.

Experts in financial education explains three main reasons why you should pay yourself first:

When you pay yourself first, you’re mentally establishing saving as a priority. You’re telling yourself that you are more important than the electric company or the landlord. Building savings is a powerful motivator — it’s empowering.
Paying yourself first encourages sound financial habits. Most people spend their money in the following order: bills, fun, saving. Unsurprisingly, there’s usually little left over to put in the bank. But if you bump saving to the front — saving, bills, fun — you’re able to set the money aside before you rationalize reasons to spend it.
By paying yourself first, you’re building a cash buffer with real-world applications. Regular steady contributions are an excellent way to build a nest egg. You can use the money to deal with emergencies. You can use it to purchase a house. You can use it to save for retirement. Paying yourself first gives you freedom — it opens a world of opportunity.

This is one of the many lessons you will get from the book THE RICHEST MAN IN BABYLON by George s. Clason.
AUTOMATIC MILLIONAIRE by David Bach also elaborate about this financial rule and how it can make you a millionaire.
I would highly recommend you to read these books or if your one of those who are currently financially short, check out these two websites for free financial advices and tips.

millionringgithomepage.com
(I'm am currently in Love with this blog)
and

getrichslowly

Let's get rich for the sake of ISLAM!

My Inspirations

2009-04-23T20:02:00.010+08:00

Life for me is too precious and too short to be wasted on boring rutines, complaining, whining and taking easy roads.

I want to spend the remaining years/months/days of my life (that ALLAH has set for me) achieving Big Dreams, taking on the impossible, inspiring other, be inspired by other people's greatness and making a difference no matter how small or insignificant it may be.

I have been blessed to be in the presence of a few great, inspiring and amazing peoples as I have listed on the sidebar.

The first on the list is Bapak Ary Ginanjar Agustin an Indonesian and founder of ESQ Leadership Center. ESQ Leadership Centre hosts world class self-development programs that has made its way to all over Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Netherlands and probably many more. It is simply a training that you have to attend and experience. It can't be easily described in words because it is not merely a motivational training but a comprehensive self realisation program. As one of the participants puts it:

“Training ESQ adalah sebuah fenomena. Menggugah dan mampu mengubah kehidupan menjadi lebih bermakna.”

I truly urge you to attend the training and get ready to be inspired! For Malaysians, do visit the ESQ Malaysia website for training schedule. Testimonial from Malaysian participants can be found here.

The second on the list is Dr. Zakir Naik. Who doesn't know Dr. Zakir Naik. Dr. Zakir Naik, said to be inspired by the late Ahmad Deedat is passionate on clearing the misconceptions of Islam in the west and pointing out the similarities in various religion. He is a medical doctor, Islamic speaker, founder of Islamic Research Foundation (IRF) and Islamic International School in Mumbai, India.

Shyakh Hamza Yusuf as the Guardian describe, "arguably the west's most influential Islamic scholar,". He is the founder of Zaytuna Institue. He is one of the few Muslims that got a personal audience with President Bush. I want to share with you his famous saying during his interview with The Guardian : "I would rather live as a Muslim in the west than in most of the Muslim countries, because I think the way Muslims are allowed to live in the west is closer to the Muslim way"

Well said Shyakh, well said... I totally agree.

Harun Yahya(pen name) or Adnan Oktar(real name) is no stranger to us Muslims. His work on Science and The Qur'an is so amazing that you can't help but be proud to be a Muslim. If for some reason you don't have a clue who Harun Yahya is, then I suggest you start reading.

SaifulIslam or Hasrizal Abdul Jamil(real name) was initially well-known among oversea students then his popularity expanded through his blog Saifulislam.com. With the tagline: 'Erti hidup pada memberi' he has successfully used the virtual world as his dakwah medium.

Suhaib Webb decribed in the Wikipedia as a contemporary American Muslim activist and speaker. He is an american revert who embraced Islam at the age of twenty, later married a Malaysia women and is actively involved in da'wah.

Tariq Ramadhan to me is such a great thinker and intelectualist so much so that he is ranked 8th in a list of the world’s top 100 contemporary intellectuals by the world’s most influential magazines, Prospect and Foreign Policy. I had the chance to attend his talk held in Cardiff and Subhannallah it was soo inspirational. He is the grandson of Imam Hassan al-Banna so I guess it is in the genes.

The last in the list is Yusuf Estes , a man I truly admire. He has so much love and compassion towards the Muslims that if you ever happen to attend his talk, you can literally cry ... not because you're sad but rather from his love.

I humbly hope that you will be inspired by these people as much as if not more than I am. I will leave you with a video dedicated to new Muslims but I think the message is something we, the 'old Muslim' usually forgets.

Oren & Comel

2009-04-14T17:37:00.001+08:00

My two sweethearts,

Comel

and oren

Laskar Pelangi - Featured Movie & Song

2009-04-09T13:50:00.000+08:00

Ever felt down...like there is no more hope? Like life is just not fair?

Well, LASKAR PELANGI is a movie that would surely move and inspire you.

This movie is based on a popular novel series 'Laskar Pelangi' that tells us the story of ten kids from a very poor background..overcoming all odds fighting for the right of education.

This is a must watch movie!

Watch it online. Thank you to those who uploaded it and made it available.

One of the dialog that catches me most from the movie is:

"Hiduplah untuk memberi sebanyak-banyaknya BUKAN untuk menerima sebanyak-banyaknya" (Live so to give as much as possible not so to accept as much as possible)

Here is a song from the movie with the same title

Enjoy!

The choices...and the Mess you make in life

2009-02-10T12:09:00.000+08:00

The hard thing about making choices is that you have to live with it.

In my case, I made a choice to neglect somethings and end up making a mess. We make 'a mess' all the time, through unfulfilled promises, responsibility and commitments.

So when we are faced with the mess we made, when we are confronted... the first thing we want to do is run from it... by giving excuses, or just avoid it... and what's most certain is that you will be hated to a certain degree.

In my case I will admit my mistake and will do whatever it takes to clean it up... Allah give me strength.

Palestine - What we HAVE to do!

2009-01-20T12:12:00.000+08:00

For over 22 days, the people of Gaza lived in terror with the ongoing bombings. Some fled their home only to find its ruins after coming back.

Can we ever imagine living in such state?

Do we have the right to rest when our brothers are in such state?

Can you still sleep peacefully at night? If you still can't feel a thing then do you have the right to say that you are a Muslim?

Although the bombings have stopped... it is said to be temporary and most likely to continue. Also remember, the palestinian story is not a 1/2 years story, it has been going on for over several decades.

We should know the story right now... what's important is what can we do with the limited capacity we have right now.

1. Make doa for our brothers and sisters ... day and night ... while driving to work, walking to school, college/ university, before and after eating ... every moment we have.

2. Strive for perfecting your ISLAM. I am stating ISLAM here because it is our DEEN. 'Deen' as Yusuf Estez puts it is what we do from the moment we wake up to the time we go to bed, from the moment we were born till the day we die. It is our way of life. However, the Muslims today only want to do what they feel easy or what they want from Islam and neglecting other parts. ISLAM should be practised in its completeness to ensure workability. This will be a reminder especially for me.

3. BOYCOTT Israel products! We all know about this... we still buy the products...why??.. because we can't resist the temptation. For some of us it has already become a lifestyle. When I was in the UK, the only brand that tempted me was Marks and Spensers... the foods was absolutely delicious. I used to think.... one cake wouldn't matter... now I know... every penny counts... Oh Allah please forgive my weakness. NOW! It matters more than ever.

Featured Blog (2)

2009-01-07T09:13:00.000+08:00

Dari Qalbu Mengalir ke Keyboard

This is a blog of friend I got to know from Friendster (who is a friend of my college mate (Kolej MARA Banting, who also studied with me in Cardiff).

Besides the made-to-look-complicated introduction, this is a blog I find very inviting. Hilmi Khairi writes about his daily life, and his views on the Muslim world today, as well as the curent going ons in Malaysia. So one might say there are many other blog like it around...including mine..duh!

Well, the reason why I want to promote this blog is that I find Hilmi Khairi's writing very close, personalised and warm. This is proven by his large circle of friends.

This blog to you may be like any other blog, but to me, I find that each blog has its own uniqueness. I love to share, so I would like to share this blog with you.

Happy reading!

Education & Money

2009-01-07T08:05:00.000+08:00

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. I ask Allah for His forgiveness and may this piece of writing be a reminder to myself.

The new school year and semester has just started and everybody is excited. My littlest brother just entered Standard 1(primary school) and he is super excited... and nervous as well...soo cute. My sister Nazeerah is now in Form 4(higher secondary school) after excelling in her PMR (Middle School Certificate). Congrats Nazeerah!

What I want to look at today is about the relationship between education and money. In a developing country like ours, education is still something we have to pay for. No matter how much we wish for it to be free, we have to face the fact that our country is not rich enough yet. Even in a rich country like United Kingdom, in the face of an economic breakdown such as what we are facing now, they are struggling to make ends meet with the country's expenses.

The reason that I'm writing about this is that during the past few days I have heard so many complains about the price of education. Parents are complaining about the price, some are even reluctant to pay. I would understand if those talking are from really poor background. Unfortunately, the people complaining are those with big cars and good paychecks. The question is why do we become so stingy when it comes to education but not when it comes to buying new cars? Why do we spend thousands to decorate our house (custom made curtains, 'kayu jati' furniture, crystal plates and glass, plasma TV,etc.) but can't spend thousands on education. Which is our priority?

I am writing this because I am sad that people does not find education important. We are so caught up in wanting to live the luxurious life which then leads to overspending. A huge part of our money is spent on paying debts so we end up with no money for our children's and even our own education.

Our attitude towards education right now is creating a world filled with complaining, blaming and overspending. Let's try and look at it more closely. A parent who is working for the government complains about the price of education then blames the school and refuse to pay. The school teachers and management team complains about the price of education, also refuse to pay their children's education, complains to the government for not providing enough funding. The government education officer, complains about the price of education, refuse to pay for their children's education fees, blame the parents who does not want to pay the fees, blame the school for increasing requests in funding. Can you see how this is never going to end?

Well not all the above is true but it is possible, if it is not you, it may be somebody else. I truly feel that it is time that we put education a priority. I am sure many of us, especially parents who are now successful, used to be from a poor background. My father told me that he had to cycle for 1 hour everyday in order to go to school. My mother had to jog 2 miles to catch a bus to school. Look at us now, we have cars and busses all around us....

So why not, spend a little more on education and cut out on other supplementary spending. We should be more than happy to pay whatever is needed for education. A great educational system is the stepping stone in creating a developed and prosperous country and it all starts from us.

So what do we have to do?

1. Educate ourselves with financial education so that we can manage our finances properly.

2. Budget our spending and be honest with ourselves.

3. Put aside a part of our earning for education only.

4. Spend only on things that we can afford, don't be easily tempted towards loans and credit cards.

Finally,I hope this will be a reminder for myself and something for you to think about.

Featured blog (1)

2008-12-10T15:24:00.000+08:00

The Journal of a Girl who Loves To Cook

This is a blog I stumbled upon while I was searching for a Japanese food recipe (I can't really remember what).

Then as I was reading the blog, I said to myself...Oh wow..this girl does not only loves cooking but she really is talented.

The owner of the blog is Su Yin, graduate of Construction Management+Property from UNSW(Sydney) who then went to NotterSchool of Pastry Arts in Orlando; FL to pursue her new found interest in the Art of Cake Decorating. More of her biodata here.

I was inspired since the first time I read the blog. She is so driven and so focused in whatever she's doing. This I believe have rewarded her with what she has now... a continuous requests for her lovely cakes. I also hope she will continue to succeed and I really really hope that one day I may enjoy one of her cakes.

I will leave you with these mouthwatering delectable.

What I do best

2008-12-08T20:39:00.000+08:00

I have so much free time right now so I would like to spend it by increasing my post in this blog. So, to make that happen I would like to start of by doing what I do best...recommending and giving my opinion ( no matter how lame it is). I believe we all have our favourites so I would just like to share my personal favourites.

I would like to start of with five categories:

Japanese drama:
I just love Jdrama mainly because of the 'you can achieve anything' theme which I truly find inspirational. I am not saying I don't like watching other dramas (malay, english etc.) or that I don't find them interesting...its only that I watch more Jdrama than any other dramas.

I will take you episode by episode (but not in one go) insyaAllah.

Japanese songs:
Again, just like Jdrama, I listen to Jsongs more than any other songs. as you can see, so far in my posts, I have included many of my favourite Jsongs.

Jdrama and Jsong posts will be on a seperate blog that I will put as a link on my sidebar

Books:
If I were to put together all the books my family have, I can open a small town library. Due to the wealth of books Allah has provided us, I am thrilled to share with you some of my favourite books.

Blogs:
As a blogger it is only natural for me read other blogs... so I would like to feature some of my friends blogs as well as other blogs that I find interesting and beneficial. I will then include these blogs on my sidebar.

Websites:
It's the IT era...any organisation/person/groups will have a website...again I will feature those that I find interesting and beneficial.

Live life to the fullest! What have you done for Islam?

Inspirational advice by Yusuf Estes

2008-12-03T12:09:00.000+08:00

On the 27th November I was blessed to in the audience of a prominent speaker Yusuf Estes. He is currently on his tour around Malaysia and he stopped over at UTM from 2pm-4pm then at Taman Universiti mosque from 8pm-10pm. Alhamdulillah I was able to attend both of his talk.

The one in UTM talk about why doctors and scientist now are turning to Islam for answers. He quoted examples from the Quran that explains living thing in a scientific manner. These are mainly well known especially if you have visited Harun Yahya's site.

Then the talk at night was about doing da'wah. His talk mainly revolves around Surah Al-Asr. Though simple, it really touches your heart. What got me most was he touched on the third ayat
of Surah al-Asr "...and remind one another to truth and remind one another to endurance." The part highlighted are normally translated as such. However Sheikh Yusuf Estes stress out it does not merely mean remind but to urge one another indicating it's importance.

Another question he throwed at us was "What is the meaning of IMAN?" Of course normally we would answer 'belief'. He reminded us that IMAN is to believe in Allah and HIS deen so much that we would do something about it. So the main question is.. "What have you done for Islam?"

This is just a small piece of what I got from that day. Of course just being there in the audience of such an amazing man is an experience I could not simply put in words.

Want to know more about Yusuf Estes. Please go here for the story of how he accepted Islam. Read the whole page and I can asure you that you will be inspired. Islam Tomorrow is a web page monitored by him dedicated to da'wah. From there you can find links to other useful sites that can help you n doing da'wah.

Live life to the fullest! What have you done for Islam?

Too Cute

2008-11-17T10:24:00.000+08:00

This video and song is soo cute that I think it would be a waste if I don't share it with you. Thank you Ismiza for the video. Love you lots...

Also I absolutely forgot to dedicate a warm thank you to my family for the lovely little birthday cake. Time does fly... it's already 25 years since that historic 12 October 1983.

The Amazing 6!

2008-10-14T10:47:00.000+08:00

Presenting the fabulous 6! This is a picture I would truly treasure. Kudos to Abg. Zaidi for the great pictures.

Making each day worthwhile.

2008-10-12T11:33:00.001+08:00

In the name of Allah Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

I am so grateful for such wonderful few months. Starting with the graduation which was the most important day of my life. Then I safely landed in KLIA on the 13th of September (13th Ramadhan). Ramadhan at home was truly a bliss. Spending time with mom, dad, my brothers and sisters is truly something I've always missed. We cooked, cleaned, eat, prayed together. during the final week of ramadhan nearly everybody was at home except for my brother who has already made his way to my grandparents house in Kuala Selangor. My grandparents was most excited because of all their grandchildrens are here for Eid this year. My grandma cooked her famous 'rendang kerang' using 2 kg of 'kerang'! It's a pity I don't eat kerang (mussles) but thank you grandma for your undying love.

What's most exciting about his years 'Raya' is the fact that I get to spend an additional week at my grandparents house in Kuala Selangor due to my interview on the 6th of October in Sungai Buloh. Imagine a house with only me, my grandma and my grandad...one might think it's pretty boring...it was at first because we never really got to spend so much time together before.... Imagine that... 25 years old and I've never really spent time with my grandparents! However on the second day things start to heat up...we talked about nearly everything... my grandparents started telling me stories of how they started their life. They started of with just a small hut... no electricity..no tap water... planting tapioca. Then after a year, the government provided them with a tap at the main road for everybod to share. So getting water from the tap would be one the everyday chore. It was not until another 4/5 years that proper pipings and electric cables were put in place. Before that they survived with a small generatorand single bulb. It is really hard to imagne a life without all the machines (washing mashine, rice cooker, refrigerator) that we have today. Life is easier today but sadly we are getting more and more lazy. The week was a bliss especially when I got trapped in their quarrels (hehehhe...so cute!). The interview? It went as well as it can...but till today no answer yet.

More stories to come! Till then...laters...take care.

Note: Life's full of hidden lessons and wisdoms...its up to us to grab it!

Live life to the fullest!

GRADUATION DAY!

2008-07-20T13:21:00.001+08:00

First of all I would like to congratulate all the Malaysian Graduates of Cardiff University 2008.

The day started of with collection of robes at approximately 11 am...then we headed straight to Abg Zaidi's house who owned a studio where we had our photos taken ( I still haven't received the photos yet so I could not include it in this post. Then we headed straight to St. Davids hall for a briefing on how the ceremony will take place. It was not until the guest and parents started coming in and filling in the upper level of the auditorium that it actually hit me...my parents are not here...on the most important day of my life...tears started welling up in my eyes...tried my best to contain it...but still it came rolling down...thanks goodness for my over-sized robe..provides me with a hiding place...hehehehehe.

Then the ceremony started with speeches, bachelor awards, masters awards, doctorate awards and an opera performance. It was so simple...only took 2 hours. Then we were out of the hall to take more pictures... and headed to the reception party where special prizes from the school were given out along with light refreshments ( which means sandwiches and orange juice).

The day was a simple yet memorable one...so I want to spend a few moments to formally thanks all my course-mates for all that you have done and all that we have done to get us here. I first started knowing you as somebody older than all of you with the desperation to be accepted and to fit in. Thank you so much for making me feel honored.

First of all my 3 studymates: Wansah, Mizah and Ash.

Wansah : I will always remember you as a great and inspiring leader. You have what it takes to move the society and bring difference to our society. My hope as a sister is that you would continue to play big games and challenge yourself.

Mizah : I will remember you as somebody who are 100% original. I just love your coolness! Thank you for being a rock for all of us..pushing us all in our studies. Thank you for setting up the study group and making it a beneficial one.

Ash : I will remember you as the cute and sweet sister you are. Thank you for being there in sad and happy times, providing me with the strengh and support I needed.

My wish to all of you is that you will all excell in anything you do and always be the amazing people you all are. We will meet again in 5 years time to have our first business discussion. You go guys!

Next are my other two coursemate who was not in the study group because they did the four years course whereas we did the three years course.

Mona : I will remember you as the sweet and bubbly girl that never fails to bring a smile to everybody. Continue spreading your compassion and smile to other poeple because you are destined for great things.

Dido : I will remember you as a great person who can connect to everybody but at the same time have your own principle. Stand firm on your principles and keep on inspiring others as you have inspired me.

There is nothing valuable enough that I can give to all of you but my continous support. Whatever you are striving for, I will support you all the way. If ever you want to talk to somebody, I am only a phonecall, SMS and an email away!

I want to share a japanese song that I find really elating and also contains my personal hope to all of you.

Here is the lyrics fully in English (credits to mognet translation group):

It started with a vibe from you
Friendship first then... My dream come true
We entered to that precious place
Where peace and trust melt into grace
But my fate has played a trick on me
Forever last this cannot be
I love you enough to let you go
Waves upon waves upon waves high and low

Onshore, there are times when things get mushy
Offshore, waves have shoulders and minds
On those calm and really perfect days
Some have peaks, and some are flat, but
It's nature, it's like life
There are times that are bitter sad, so that you can smile, so

Catch the wave, feel it, put your hands together
Agree, don't be defeated, everyone worries, night and day
Catch the wave, cast away
All your fear into the air
Don't delay, no leeway
No matter what they say we just don't care

The energy that I get from the sun smells of nature's blessing
The wind on the sea, the brooks on the mountains, pouring down in the forests, the acoustics of the small birds

Feeling the vibe we strum
Taking in that natural beauty
It's really a dream for me
Floating in the ocean's soul you'll see
We will always be together

When you gaze into the mirror
You see yourself but not your inside
So, how can I and I see what's sitting
In your heart when you show no feeling
You can see reflections of your soul
When you face nature around you
It's in the tears of rain, our Earth's pain
It's a pity you can't see a leaf is dying
This ends a new your chance has come
To truth your stars are finally shining
So let's paddle away take off
And ride the wave, the good sets are coming

Catch the wave, feel it, put your hands together
Agree, don't be defeated, everyone, night and day
Catch the wave, cast away
All your fear into the air
Don't delay, no leeway
No matter what they say we just don't care

All the BEST you guys and remember... ALLAH is always with us!

Fast-track update

2008-07-20T12:39:00.000+08:00

I believe the last time I updated this blog was in April. Time does go by fast...alhamdulillah I'm still alive to enjoy Allah's creations.

mid April - end of Mei : This was the study and final exam period. We had study group every other day and personal study. Alhamdulillah all went well. Nobody was sick or had any misfortunes.

1st June - 6th June : The exams are over (really??) It was a time everybody doesn't want to do anything...but still..we were busy sorting out our stuffs...cleaning rooms. Those who live in student residences were moving out. Those who lived in private houses made room for their friends... as for me I was making space for my dear sister...Mahfuzah who is going to live in my room starting September.

7th June - 11th June : Turkey Trip with Ash. We went to Istanbul. This is my first trip out of UK! It was an unforgetable experince.

Blue Mosque at night

12th June - 30th June : Post Turkey trip...broke already. Back to my normal part time job. Desperately looking for another job. Alhamdulillah got a night job. Adjusting to working at night..and sleeping during the day. Spending the weekends visiting friends all over UK.

1st July - 13th July : Workaholic period. I was working 5am-8am then 9am-1pm. Then work again at night from 8.30 pm -11.30 pm. I was literally standing, moping, scrubbing hoovering for nine hours a day! My legs were already aching after two days...but it got better during the second week.

14 th July - today: 14th, a day before graduation..all excited gettingready but still to go to work. 15 th, GRADUATION day! The day I have been waiting for. (will write more on it in the next post) 16th-today, post graduation - saying goodbye to friends who are leaving...heading home to start their career and to some to just rest for a while and spend time with their family.

There you go a pretty short and concise update.

MUSIC...the ongoing dilema...

2008-04-25T01:44:00.001+08:00

I am blessed to be raised in a family that really puts a priority on education and self development. I remember the first TV set we bought was when I was 7 years old. In todays life a TV set is like a must have in every family...I'm still amazed at how we managed to spend our days without TV. Not only that, the first time I listened to music was when I was 9 years old when my dad bought me a nasyid (Islamic song) cassette for children. I was exposed to music pretty late compared to other children of my age. When I was a teenager I remember being left out in most of the conversations with my friends because I had zero knowledge of the entertaiment world.

I fully understand now that what my parent was doing was to make sure that I put seeking knowledge as a priority and leisure second.

In todays world, it seems kind of impossible to escape from music and entertainment and that we are just simply surrounded by it.

When you look from the Islamic point of view, over indulging yourself with leisurely stuffs, including music is generally not allowed with the simple reason that we may be seperating ourselves from our main task as a human being (mother/father, son/daughter, student/educator, employee/employer etc.)

However, music can also be a profession such as shown by the likes of Yusuf Islam, Dawud Wharnsby etc.

The following, is an article from Islamonline.net on the Islams' stance on music. I hope this would be a beneficial read to all.

All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger.

First of all, we would like to thank you for the great confidence you have in us. We hope our efforts meet your expectations.

Given that your objection revolves mainly around music and why it is permissible, here is the clarification for that in the light of fatwa issued by Sheikh Yusuf Al-Qaradawi:

The whole issue of singing is controversial, whether it is with musical accompaniment or not. Some issues succeeded to gain the Muslim scholars’ agreement, while others failed. All scholars have unanimous view on the prohibition of all forms of singing and music that incites debauchery, indecency, or sin. As for musical instruments, given the weakness of the evidence indicating that they are forbidden, the rule to be applied here is the one states that all things are originally deemed permissible as long as there is no Shari`ah text that prohibits them.

Singing is no more than melodious words; if these are good, singing is considered good; but if they are bad, such singing is deemed bad. Talk that contains forbidden content is prohibited. What if the talk is accompanied with rhythm and melody?

Scholars agree on the permissibility of singing without instrumental accompaniment and where the content is not prohibited. This sort of singing is allowed only in certain occasions such as: weddings, feasts, welcoming a traveler, and the like. This is based on the hadith of the Prophet (peace and blessing be upon him) that states: “He (peace and blessings be upon him) asked, ‘Have you given the girl (i.e., the bride) anything as a present?’ They (the attendants) replied, ‘Yes.’ He asked, 'Did you send a singer along with her?' 'No', said `A'ishah. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) then said, 'The Ansar are a people who love poetry. You should have sent along someone who would sing: Here we come, to you we come, greet us as we greet you.'" In this case, we can say that a woman can sing only in front of women and her non-marriageable male kin.

In the subject of musical instruments, scholars disagree on the matter. Some of them permit all sorts of singing, be it accompanied with musical instruments or not, and even consider it recommended. A second group of scholars permit singing only when is not accompanied with a musical instrument. A third group declare it to be prohibited whether it be accompanied with a musical instrument or not; they even consider it as a major sin. In supporting their view, they cite the hadith narrated by Imam Al-Bukhari on the authority of Abu Malik or Abu `Amir Al-Ash`ari (doubt from the sub-narrator) that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, 'From among my followers there will be some people who will consider illegal sexual intercourse, the wearing of silk (clothes), the drinking of alcoholic drinks and the use of musical instruments, as lawful.' Although this hadith is in Sahih Al-Bukhari, its chain of transmission is not connected to Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) and this invalidates its authenticity. Ibn Hazm rejects it for that very reason. Moreover, the sub-narrator, Hisham Ibn `Ammar is declared ‘weak’ by many scholars of the Science of Hadith Methodology.

Besides, this hadith does not clearly prohibit the use of musical instruments, for the phrase 'consider as lawful,' according to Ibn Al-`Arabi, has two distinct meanings:

First: Such people think all these (the things mentioned) are lawful.

Second: They exceed the proper limits that should be observed in using these instruments. If the first meaning is intended, such people would be thus disbelievers.

In fact, the hadith in hand dispraises the manners of a group of people who indulge themselves in luxuries, drinking alcohol and listening to music. Therefore, Ibn Majah narrates this hadith from Abu Malik Al-Ash`ari in the following wording: "From among my followers there will be some people who will drink wine, giving it other names while they listen to musical instruments and the singing of female singers; Allah the Almighty will make the earth swallow them and will turn them into monkeys and pigs.” (Reported by Ibn Hibban in his Sahih)

Conclusion on Permissibility of Musical Instruments

In the light of the above, it is clear that the religious texts that stand as a basis for those who maintain that singing is haram are either ambiguous or inauthentic. None of the hadiths attributed to Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) is valid as evidence on the judgment of prohibition. Moreover, all these hadiths are declared ‘weak’ by the followers of Ibn Hazm, Malik, Ibn Hanbal, and Ash-Shafi`i.

In his book, Al-Ahkam, Al-Qadi Abu Bakr Ibn Al-`Arabi says, “None of the hadiths maintaining that singing is prohibited are considered authentic (by the scholars of the Science of Hadith Methodology).” The same view is maintained by Al-Ghazali and Ibn An-Nahwi in Al-`Umdah. Ibn Tahir says, “Not even a single letter from all these Hadiths was proved to be authentic.”

Ibn Hazm says, “All the hadiths narrated in this respect were invented and falsified.”

Proofs of Those Who Maintain that Singing is Halal:

First: The Textual Proofs:

They base their argument on some authentic hadiths of Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him). One of these hadiths is the following:

`A'ishah (may Allah be pleased with her) narrated: “Allah’s Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him, came to my house while two girls were singing beside me the songs of Bu`ath (a story about the pre-Islamic war between the two tribes of the Ansar, the Khazraj and the Awus). The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) laid down and turned his face to the other side. Then Abu Bakr came and spoke to me harshly saying, ‘Musical instruments of Satan near the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him)?’ Thereupon, Allah’s Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him) turned his face towards him and said, ‘Leave them.’ When Abu Bakr became inattentive, I signaled to those girls to go out and they left.” (Reported by Al-Bukhari)

This indicates that these two girls were not so young as claimed by some scholars. If they were, Abu Bakr would not have been angry with them in such manner. In addition, in this hadith, the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) wanted to teach the Jews that Islam has room for merriment and that he himself was sent with a moderate and flexible legislation. There is also another important lesson to learn here. It draws our attention to the fact that one needs to introduce Islam to others in a good fashion, along with displaying its moderateness and magnanimity.

Moreover, we can also cite as corroborating this Allah’s words that read, “But when they spy some merchandise or pastime they break away to it and leave thee standing. Say: That which Allah hath is better than pastime and than merchandise, and Allah is the best of providers.” (Al-Jumu`ah: 11)

In this verse, Allah Almighty joins pastime with merchandise. He does not dispraise any of them, He just only rebuked the Companions who left Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) alone giving the khutbah (Friday Sermon), when they all rushed to attend to the caravan and beating of the drums celebrating its arrival.

Second: In Respect of Islam’s Spirit and Basics:

It is a fact that Allah had prohibited for the Children of Israel some of the good things of this worldly life as a punishment for their misdeeds.

He says, “Because of the wrongdoing of the Jews, We forbade them good things which were (before) made lawful unto them, and because of their much hindering from Allah's way. And of their taking usury when they were forbidden it, and of their devouring people's wealth by false pretences. We have prepared for those of them who disbelieve a painful doom.” (An-Nisa’: 160-161)

Before sending Prophet Muhammad, He Almighty referred to him in the earlier scriptures as, “Those who follow the Messenger, the Prophet who can neither read nor write, whom they will find described in the Torah and the Gospel (which are) with them. He will enjoin on them that which is right and forbid them that which is wrong. He will make lawful for them all good things and prohibit for them only the foul.” (Al-A`raf: 157)

Thus, Islam left nothing good or sound but declared it to be halal (lawful). This is a sign of mercy to this Ummah (nation or community), moving along the line of its comprehensive and eternal message. Allah Almighty says, “They ask you (O Muhammad) what is made lawful for them. Say: (all) good things are made lawful for you.” (Al-Ma’idah: 4)

If we are to delve deeply into this matter, we will find that love for singing and melodic voices are almost a human instinct. We can observe an infant lying in his cradle soothed and sleeping by the sound of a lullaby. Mothers and nannies are always in the habit of singing for babies and children. Moreover, birds and animals respond to nice voices and rhythmic melodies.

Thereupon, if singing is thus a human instinct, it is not for Islam to defy humankind’s instincts. Islam came to refine and promote the human instinct. Ibn Taymyiah says, “Prophets were sent to polish and discipline man’s instinct and not to change or modify it.” This is pursuant to the hadith that reads, “When Allah’s Messenger came to Madinah, he found them (i.e., the people of Madinah) celebrating two days. He said, ‘What are these days?’ They replied, ‘We used to rejoice in these days during the pre-Islamic era.’ He (peace and blessings be upon him) said, ‘Verily, Allah Almighty has given you two alternative days which are much better: these are Al-Adha and Al-Fitr days (`Eids).’” (Reported by Ahmad, Abu Dawud and An-Nasa’i)

Moreover, if singing is to be considered rejoicing and play, these are not haram; this is in pursuant to the famous idea that man needs some time to relax a bit and rejoice. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said to Hanzalah who thought himself to be a hypocrite for his attendance to his wife and children and the change that affected him when he was apart from Allah’s Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him), “O Hanzalah! Part of your time should be devoted (to the worldly affairs) and part of time (should be devoted to prayer and meditation).” (Reported by Muslim)

`Ali Ibn Abu Talib says, “Amuse yourselves for some time, for if hearts are exposed to too much strain, they turn blind.”

Abu Ad-Darda’ said, “I refresh myself with some amusement in order to make myself stronger on the path of right.”

Imam Al-Ghazali answered someone who asked him: “Isn't singing some kind of play and rejoice?” He said, “Yes. But, all that exists in this present life is mere play and rejoice. All that takes place between a husband and his wife is play, except sexual intercourse that is the direct cause of reproducing children. This has been reported from Allah’s Messenger and his honorable Companions.”

In fact, leisure time is refreshing to the heart and alleviates its tensions at the same time. Excessive strain and efforts render the heart bored and blind. Amusing the self refreshes and renews its strength and vigor. One who continuously works hard at something should take a break for a while in order to restore and regain his energy and firm will lest he totally collapses in future. When one takes a break, he thus restores his strength and vigor. Only Prophets can stand absolute seriousness. Having leisure time is a form of treatment for diseases of the self, weariness and boredom. But, leisure should not be excessive. This will go against the whole issue of rejoicing hearts to make them able to go on.

One who is familiar with and experienced in the nature of the human heart and self knows for certain that recreation and relaxation are necessary treatments for one’s well-being.

These proofs on the permissibility of singing are extracted from the texts and rules of Islam, and these are sufficient to clarify the issue.

In addition to this, the people of Madinah, who were very pious and God-fearing, the Zahiriyyah, who were very literal regarding the textual proofs, and the Sufis, who were very strict and rigid, were all quoted to have declared the permissibility of singing.

Imam Ash-Shawkani says in his book “Nayl Al-Awtar”, “The people of Madinah and those who agreed with them from among the Zahiriyyah and the Sufis maintain that singing is permissible, even when it is accompanied by a musical instrument such as the lute or the flute. Abu Mansur Al-Bughdadi Ash-Shafi`i narrate that `Abdullah Ibn Ja`far saw nothing wrong in singing, and he, himself, used to compose the music for his own slaves who used to sing these melodies in his presence. This took place during the time of Commander of the Faithful, `Ali Ibn Abi Talib. Abu Ja`far Al-Bughdadi narrates the same after Al-Qadi Shurayh, Sa`id Ibn Al-Musaiyb, `Ata’ Ibn Abu Rabah, Az-Zuhri and Ash-Shi`bi.”

Ar-Ruwaiyani narrates on the authority of Al-Qaffal that Malik Ibn Anas maintained that singing with musical instruments is permissible. Also, Abu Mansur Al-Furani quotes Malik as maintaining that playing the flute is permissible.

Abu Al-Fadl Ibn Tahir narrates, “The people of Madinah never disputed over the permissibility of playing the lute.”

Ibn An-Nahwi narrates in his “Al-`Umdah”: “Ibn Tahir said, ‘The people of Madinah showed consensus over this (issue). Also, all the Zahiriyyah maintained the same.'”

Al-Mawardi attributes the permissibility of playing the lute to some of the Shafi`i followers and students. This has been narrated also by Abu Al-Fadl Ibn Tahir after Abu Ishaq Ash-Shirazi; and it is narrated by Al-Isnawi after Ar-Ruwaiyani and Al-Mawardi. Again, this is narrated by Al-Adfuwi after Sheikh `Izz Ad-Deen Ibn `Abd As-Salam. It is also narrated after Abu Bakr Ibn Al-`Arabi.

All these scholars consider singing that is accompanied by musical instruments permissible, but as for singing that is not accompanied by musical instruments, Al-Adfuwi says, “In some of his jurisprudence-related books, Al-Ghazali narrates the consensus of the scholars on its permissibility." Also, Ibn Tahir narrates the consensus of the Prophet’s Companions and those who succeeded them on this very topic. Ibn An-Nahwi states in Al-`Umdah that singing and listening was deemed permissible by a group of the Companions and the Followers.

Conditions and Terms:

There are some conditions and terms that should be observed regarding listening to singing, as follows:

1. Not all sorts of singing are permissible. Rather, the permissible song should comply with the Islamic teachings and ethics. Therefore, the songs praising the tyrants and corrupt rulers disagree with Islamic teachings. In fact, Islam stands against transgressors and their allies, and those who show indifference to their transgression. So, the same goes for those songs that imply giving praises to such attitude!

2. Also, the way the song is performed weighs so much. The theme of the song may be good, but the performance of the singer – through intending excitement and arousing others’ lusts and desires along with trying to seduce them – may move it to the area of prohibition, suspicion or even detest. The Glorious Qur’an addresses the wives of Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) saying, “O you wives of the Prophet! You are not like any other women. If you keep your duty (to Allah), then be not soft of speech, lest he in whose heart is a disease aspire (to you), but utter customary speech." (Al-Ahzab: 32) So, one has to show caution to music when there is softness of speech accompanied with rhyme, melody, and special effects!

3. Singing should not be accompanied with something that is prohibited such as alcohol, nakedness, mixing of men with women that is common in pubs and nightclubs, etc.

4. Islam has declared excessiveness as prohibited in everything. The same goes for excessiveness in leisure and recreation even though these things are permissible ! This indicates that the emptiness of the mind and heart has to be observed and tackled during man’s short-term life. One should know that Allah Almighty will ask every one about his life and his youth in particular.

There are some things in which one is to be his own judge and Mufti. If there is some kind of singing that arouses his own lust or desire, and takes him away from the real life, he should avoid it then and block that very gate from which the winds of trial and seduction may come and erase his religion, morals and heart. If he does this, he will live in peace and tranquility.

Warning against playing with the word “haram”

To conclude, we address the respectful scholars who tackle the word “haram” easily and set it free in their writings and fatwas that they should observe that Allah is watching over them in all that they say or do. They should also know that this word “haram” is very dangerous. It means that Allah’s Punishment is due on a certain act or saying, and should not be based upon guessing, whims, weak Hadiths, not even through an old book. It has to be supported by a clear, well-established text or valid consensus. If these last two are not found, then we revert the given act or saying to the original rule: "permissibility governing things". We do have a good example to follow from one of our earlier pious scholars. Imam Malik (may Allah be pleased with him) who said: “It was not the habit of those who preceded us, the early pious Muslims, who set good example for the following generations, to say, 'This is halal, and this is haram. But, they would say, ‘I hate such-and-such, and maintain such-and-such, but as for halal and haram, this is what may be called inventing lies concerning Allah. Did not you hear Allah’s Statement that reads, 'Say: Have you considered what provision Allah has sent down for you, how you have made of it lawful and unlawful? Say: Has Allah permitted you, or do you invent a lie concerning Allah?” (Yunus: 59) For, the halal is what Allah and His Messenger made lawful, and the haram is what Allah and His Messenger made unlawful.

Himpunlah Ilmu Demi Kemajuan Dunia dan Kebahagian Akhirat

2008-04-24T15:44:00.000+08:00

I'm back....have spent the last few weeks completing my final year project..praying for the best. To start of, today I'd like to share an article writen by mother(my biological mother) that was published in a magazine in Malaysia. Personally I think it's a n interesting read....ENJOY!

Himpunlah Ilmu Demi Kemajuan Dunia dan Kebahagian Akhirat

Petikan dari Majalah Haluan

Anak-anakku yang dikasihi Allah!

Semoga Allah sentiasa membahagiakan kalian dengan keredhaanNya. Mudah-mudahan kalian terus berada di landasan yang mendorong ke syurga.

Wahai anak-anakku yang ingin beribadah dengan benar dan ingin bebas dari segala mara bahaya, ibu sentiasa mendoakan supaya Allah melimpahkan taufiqNya. Berbekallah dengan taqwa dan ilmu kerana beribadah tanpa bekal ilmu adalah sia-sia. Ketahuilah ilmu merupakan pangkal segala perbuatan. Sebab al-Qur’an diturunkan adalah untuk ilmu dan ibadah. Begitu juga dengan tugas-tugas kerasulan itu diutus Allah hanyalah untuk ilmu dan beribadah. Bahkan penciptaan langit dan bumi serta seluruh isinya adalah untuk ilmu dan ibadah.

Anak-anakku renungilah firman Allah dalam surah at-Thalaq ayat 12 : “Allahlah yang menciptakantujuh langit dan seperti itu pula bumi. Perintah Allah berlaku padanya agar kamu mengetahui bahawasanya Allah Maha Kuasa atas segala sesuatu, dan sesungguhnya Allah, IlmuNya benar-benar meliputi segala sesuatu.”

Seterunya renungilah firman Allah dalam surah az-Dzariyat ayat 56 : “Dan Aku tidak menciptakan jin dan manusia melainkan supaya mereka menyembahKu.”

Fahamilah anak-anakku betapa mulianya ibadah itu. Sesungguhnya kita mesti sentiasa menjalankan ibadah. Sungguh besar peranan ilmu dan ibadah dalam kehidupandunia dan akhirat. Oleh itu, pusatkanlah perhatian serta pemikiran kalian semata-mata untuk ilmu danibadah. Dari situ, akan tercapai kemajuan dunia serta kebahagiaan di akhirat.

Anak-anakku ambillah pesanan yang diwasiatkan oleh Luqman kepada puteranya sebagai azimat. Semoga semangat kalian akan terus hidup sepanjang hidup menuntut ilmu. “Hai anakku, pergaulilah para alim ulama dan rapatilah mereka itu dengan kedua lututmukerana sesungguhnya Allah SWTmenghidupkan hati dengan cahaya hikmah sebagaimana Dia menghidupkan bumi dengan hujan lebat dari langit”

Fikirkanlah juga akan kebenaran kata-kata Ibnu Mas’ud r.a: “Hendaklah kamu semua mengusahakan ilmu pengetahuan itu sebelum ia dilenyapkan. Lenyapnya ilmu pengetahuan ialah dengan matinya orang yang mengajarkannya. Seseorang itu tidak dilahirkan sudah menjadi pandai. Jadi ilmu pengetahuan itu mestilah diusahakan dengan belajar.”

Anak-anakku yang sentiasa gigih, tabah dan bersungguh-sungguh! Jadikanlah kesungguhan Ibn al-Jauzi sebagai contoh buat kalaian. Lihatlah betapa gigihnya beliau…

“Saya dimasukkan ke sekolah rendah sewaktu baru berusia enam tahun. Sedangkan pelajar-pelajar lain yang sekelas berumur lebih tua dari saya. Saya tidak menghabiskan masa bermain atau bergurau dengan mereka. Sebaliknya, saya menghadiri syarahan-syarahan di masjid. Segala Hadis dan maklumat mengenai sirah Nabi SAW saya hafaz serta mencatatnya apabila pulang ke rumah.

Kanak-kanak lain menghabiskan masa bermain di tebing sungai, tetapi saya sentiasa membawa buku. Saya sentiasa membawa buku. Saya akan membaca buku dari kulit ke kulit. Saya sangat mengambil berat untuk menghadiri kelas tepat pada waktunya . Meskipun saya dari keluarga susah dan kerap tidak makan seharian, namun tidak pernah meminta-minta dari orang lain. Paling penting pada saya ialah dapat terus mengikuti pelajaran.

Saya tidak jemu membaca buku. Saya amat gembira apabila memperolehi buku yang baru. Lebih 20 000 buah buku telah saya baca sepanjang tempoh pengajian. Dengan membaca saya dapat keberanian, kemurahan hati, daya hafazan, ketaqwaan dan semangat beribadat yang dimiliki para salaf al-Soleh. Penelitian terhadap buku-buku juga telah menyedarkan saya tentang kecetekan ilmu sebahagian ulama serta kelemahan semangat sebahagian pelajar.”

Anak-anakku! Begitulah juga dengan sikap Imam Syafie di zaman remajanya…”Sejak kecil lagi untuk menuntut ilmu. Bahkan banyak pengetahuan telah kuperolehi sewaktu kecil. Cintaku kepada ilmu begitu berkobar bagaikan dian yang sentiasa menyala tanpa henti. Sebaik sahaja aku terdengar ada cerdik pandai, aku berasa tidak sabar untuk menemui dan menimba ilmu daripadanya.”

Anak-anakku! Ibu juga merasa sangat bahagia seandainya kalian turut mengambil contoh dari keunggulan Hasan al-Basri. Beliau merupakan pemidato handal yang diilhamkan dengan adab sopan luhur serta perasaan halus. Dia bersifat tawaduk, tekun dan khusyuk serta sentiasa membawa kesukaan kepada orang lain. Ketabahannya berpunca daripada ketaqwaan kepada Allah. Kesunyiannya ialah untuk bertaffakur dan bermuhasabah. Dia memberikan tumpuan kepada pembangunan diri dan pengajaran . Dia mencari ahli ilmu untuk memperolehi pelajaran. Tidak menuturkan sesuatu kecuali perkara-perkara kebaikan. Dia tidak pernah menindas orang dan tidak memohon pertolongan atau perlindungan kecuali kepada Allah.

Hasan al-Basri juga umpama bintang terang dalam bidang keilmuan. Beliau sentiasa dikerumuni oleh para penuntut ilmu yang inginkan pengajarannya dalam pelbagai bidang. Ilmunya begitu luas, bersinar dan memancar umpama cahaya gemilang menerangi jiwa setiap orang yang datang kepadanya. Beliau juga terkenal dalam menyeru manusia kepada kebaikan serta mencegah kemungkaran.

Anak-anakku teguhkanlah keyakinan kalian supaya sentiasa menyedari ilmu iaitu harta terbaik untuk dihimpunkan dan diwarisi. Kekayaan ilmu tidak sedikit pun akan menyesatkan kalian. Bahkan, orang yang berilmutidak mudah tertipu dalam mengatur kehidupannya. Ilmu pengetahuan adalah pemimpin segala amalan dan amalan itu hanyalah sebagai pengikutnya. Ilmu pengetahuan juga merupakan kawan di waktu sendirian, petunjuk jalan kepada agama dan pendorong ketabahan sewaktu menghadapi cabaran.

Oleh itu, anak-anakku! Bersungguh-sungguhlah belajar ilmu pengetahuan, sebab mempelajarinya kerana Allah akan memperteguhkan taqwa kepadaNya.Menuntut ilmu merupakan ibadah. Menelaahnya sebagai bertasbih mengagungkan Allah. Menyelidiki serta mendalaminya adalah jihad. Mengajarkannya kepada orang lain menjadi sedekah. Menyampaikannya kepada yang ingin menjadi pakarnya pula merupakan kebaktian.

Anak-anakku yang mendamaikan hati serta menyejukkan pandangan! Ibu sentiasa mendoakan kalian sebagaimana doa Imam Syafie sewaktu melepaskan anak kesanyangannya berangkat menuntut ilmu: “Ya Allah! Tuhan sekalian alam, anakku ini meninggalkan aku untuk berjalan menuju keredhaanMu. Aku rela melepaskannya menuntut ilmu peninggalan pesuruhMu. Aku bermohon kepadaMu ya Allah agar Engkau permudahkan urusannya. Pelihara keselamatannyaserta panjangkan umurnya supaya dapat aku melihatnya pulang nanti dengan dada penuh berisi ilmu yang bermanfaat. Amin!”

Wassalam

Ummu Anas

Ibu yang sentiasa mendoakan kecemerlangan kalian.

In lights of the GENERAL ELECTION

2008-03-07T04:16:00.000+08:00

Everybody was anxious yesterday, waiting for the result. In the begining it seems like the usual, easy win for BN.

Then a few hours later, we started witnessing a new light, OPPOSITIONS winning in many parlimens that was never won before.

The major supprises was:

Selangor and Perak falls to the hands of Barisan Alternative
Kedah won by PAS
Penang won by DAP
Kelatan remains under PAS despite the aggressif campaign by Barisan National

The five state win came as a supprise to Barisan National and to the Malaysian. I myself, is personally estatic with the result. Finally, finally, the Malaysian are finally brave enough to voice out their voice and willing to bring a new development to Malaysia.

I see this as the start of a new , modern Malaysia. Malaysians with a more matured mentallity. In all the previous elections, the Malaysian society has potrayed a mindset that is stuck 50 years ago. Even though there are a large amount of people who have shifted their mindset, people are all afraid to voice out their opinions and take risks.

You can find a special coverage by IslamOnline

Since the BERSIH rally on 10 November 2007 and the HINDRAF issue, the Malaysian has started opening their eyes to a new possibility. What everybody wants was a JUST ruler.

News and coverage on the Election results can be found in all major news broadcasters and publications such as CNN, BBC, Financial Times, Times, ABC News, United Press International and suprisingly China Daily.

Malaysia's significance are seen to increase. The world are now starting to turn their heads towards us. Altough we always boast about our beautiful country, and the KLCC Twin Tower, it is now the time to show that the people of Malaysia are also modern in their mindset. It is no use claiming to be a democratic country when obviously the people have no freedom to voice out their views.

Economic wise, the current result is a worry to the investors. However, I'm conficent that Malaysia would be a ble to work this out and I see it as a begining for a better economic development in Malaysia.

In this new dawn, the new leaders have to sit down and think maturely and professionally for the sake of the country. It is no longer the time for racial sentiments but to work as Malaysians.

All in all, let us PRAY to Allah SWT for this oppurtunity, for this insight, for the beautiful country we are born in and for a brighter future.

Oh Allah, it is YOU that set things in motion and it is by YOUR blessings that we live in peace.

Lastly I would like to share a song by Dawud Wharnsby Ali called Prophet for Profit

This is a performance at:

Sounds of Islam International Islamic Fair 2006
Putra World Trade Centre
Kuala Lumpur

and this is another performance

Prophet For Profit
Words and melody: D.Wharnsby

You’re reading from the scripture again,
election poles, collection plates and pockets padded again.
In your rigid mind, hide all the rules that you bend.
You're either with us or against us, well we’ll see in the end.

Don’t think you lead me,
as you lead yourself on, with the lies that you speak.
And don’t think you fool me.
Behind your prophet’s beard, there’s a profit you seek

Popa Arrogant Smurf smirk on my tv screen,
When you say, “God bless us”, I know what you mean...well
The rockets red glare, the bombs bursting in air,
under your colourful smoke, your cartoon world’s a joke.

Don’t think you lead me,
as you lead yourself on with the lies that you speak.
Don’t think you fool me.
Behind the dunes that you search, there’s a profit you seek

Behind the passion I hold there are millions like me,
deaf to your definitions of democracy,
and we don’t want your twisted spirituality,
and we don’t want your bloody hands on the scriptures we read

Freedom is the word that we’ve all over-heard,
in this holy war crusade where rhetoric is absurd.
Where faith and state join to dictate fate,
and “freedom” means “Free to Dominate”

Don't think you lead me,
as you lead yourself on, with the lies that you speak.
And don’t think you fool me.
Behind your prophet’s beard there is a profit you seek.
Don’t think you lead me,
as you lead yourself on with the lies that you speak.
Don’t think you fool me.
Behind the dunes that you search, there’s a profit you seek.

...Behind the cities debris, there is an oil leak.
Behind your prophet’s beard you’re a coward who’s weak,
beyond the city’s debris, there is the bed where you sleep in peace.
Sleep in peace.
How can you rest in peace?

Less DOGMA...more SMILES....

Ucapan dari seorang pemimpin

2008-03-05T01:58:00.001+08:00

Di sini, saya nak kongsi satu video ucapan salah seorang pemimpin Malaysia untuk sama-sama kita ambil iktibar. Dengarkanlah keikhlasan hati beliau.

IGTG in Memory

2008-01-03T02:20:00.000+08:00

Spending two days and two nights in bed wasn’t exactly what I hoped for when I signed to attend ILuvIslam Goes to Glasgow (IGTG) on the 24 – 26 December 2007. However, I am really grateful that Allah has placed me to be among those who in their hearts have a deep attachment to Islam, a way of life that is regarded as being irrelevant in today’s modern life.

The three day program featured Dr. Kamal Tawfik ElHelbawy who is currently the Chairman for the Centre for The Study of Terrorism (CFSOT UK). His speech mainly urges the young Muslims to be vibrant, alive and critical in facing the harsh reality of today’s Islamic world. There were also workshops to give the participants a chance to discuss the lectures as well as to expand their horizons of thinking.

What caught me most was what we did on the final day. We were taken to an ice skating rink situated inside a shopping center known as ‘Baerhead’. We had the rink mostly to ourselves along with a local family lucky enough to witness us ‘trying to skate’.

Having walked nearly all our life, we have forgotten what it was like to victoriously walk for the first time. The first time I tried to skate got me thinking that this might be what it would feel like to walk for the first time. A very similar experience was when I first rode a bicycle at the age of 20(believe it or not). What’s so great about these moments is that the feeling of anxiety and excitement you get from not knowing what’s in store for you. Regardless of how you feel, you will keep trying until you succeed. Then comes another question, do we put in the same effort into every aspects of our life or do we pick and choose?

Since I was still woozy from my flu I just watched from the spectators stand but I can feel the love and joy that filled the rink. Everybody tried their best; skate, falling down, stand up again, slip and fall again, holding hands, it’s a scene that will bring a smile to anyone watching. Just imagine that small space being our world, wouldn’t that be beautiful?

Let us all build bridges between us and spread the love that our Prophet Muhammad SAW has bestowed upon us to the whole wide world. My end note would be: COME TO THE NEXT ILUVISLAM EVENT!