contents To be or not to be a Muslim

FEATURES REGULARS LEAP OF FAITH 06 To be or not to be a Muslim 05 Selimiye 40 Confessions of a Second 17 Aid to Syrian Refugees in 12 Islamic Finance from a Generation Muslim Turkey Singaporean Perspective 45 Sights through a 29 The Hijab Way of Guarding 32 Implications of on the Convert’s Eyes Modesty Economic Sphere 60 Best of Both Worlds 55 Advice from Luqman the Wise to His Sons

common terms

ABBREVIATIONS IN TMR DA: Darul Arqam / The Muslim SAW: Sallallahu ‘Alaihi Wassallam – AS: ‘Allayhis Salam – Converts’ Association of Singapore Meaning: Peace be upon him; Meaning: Peace be upon him; Used for Prophet (SAW) Used for Prophet who came before RA: Radiyallahu ‘Anhu/‘Anha/‘Anhum – Prophet Muhamad (SAW) Meaning: May be pleased with him/ SWT: Subhanahu Wa Ta‘ala – her/them; Used for Companions of Prophet Meaning: Glorified and Exalted One; Muhammad (SAW) Used for Allah (SWT)

TERMS IN THIS EDITION Alhamdulillah: Praise be to God Insha’Allah: If God wills terms have been represented Da’wah: Invitation to understand Islam Madrasah: Islamic School by simple Roman alphabets, and their meanings briefly provided, to ease your Deen: Religion; way of life Masha’Allah: God has willed it reading. For accurate pronunciation and : Narrations about the words and Shariah: Islamic Laws detailed meanings, it is highly advised to deeds of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) : Practices of Prophet Muhammad refer to the original spelling and meanings : Permissible (SAW) in Arabic. : Forbidden Ummah: Community Hijab / Tudung: Headgear that covers Ustadz (Ust): Teacher TMR contains some of Allah’s names and hair and neck : Alms-giving Quranic verses. Please do not dispose in the trash. Kindly keep, shred or recycle the : Faith; Belief magazine.

the muslim reader volume 32 • issue 01/2014 01 contents

LIFESTYLE HOUSE OF ARQAM 22 The Lift Me Up Project 44 A Biography Rich with 15 Book Reading by 26 Arabic for Beginners: Historical Narratives Dato’ Aidit Ghazali Greetings and Introduction 52 Smartphone Apps and the 24 Darul Arqam Bursary Award 36 Helpful Travel Info from Modern-day Muslim Presentation HalalTrip.com 63 Un-Sinfully Good

managing editor contributors publisher disclaimer copyright aishah hussein abdul ghafar abdul kadir darul arqam singapore the publisher and editor © 2014 darul arqam candy mak @ nadia mak 32 onan road, the galaxy are unable to accept singapore. all rights carol ‘aliya widjaya singapore 424484 any liability for errors or reserved. the contents associate/lifestyle editor hyder gulam phone: +65 6348 8344 omissions that may occur of this publication may siti zubeidah kadir muhammad timuzi adnan fax: +65 6440 6724 and any consequences not be reproduced in any (tim alden) www.darul-arqam.org.sg arising from the use of form or by any means, shaik kadir information contained either in its entirety, or consulting editor sim khadijah mohammed design & layout in this magazine. the even partially, without the dr yamin cheng siti khairunnisa zainal adzen touche views expressed do not documented permission siti zubeidah kadir necessarily reflect those of the publisher. syeda adiba husain printed in singapore by of the publisher and technical advisor umar munshi khl printing pte ltd editor. the publication zainal abidin nordin dr yamin cheng of advertisements and the muslim reader is advertorials within published three times in the magazine does special thanks a year by darul arqam not constitute any dato’ aidit ghazali singapore. endorsement by the as-souq publisher and editor of david zachariah the contents therein. blocksidge mohd amin teo mohd amirul mohd yunos muhd irfan maslan pustaka nasional yoda

the muslim reader 02 volume 32 • issue 01/2014 contents

HOUSE OF ARQAM 39 YODA’s Get Out, Discover 50 Multi-National Clubs BBQ 59 YODA’s Bowling Meet Picnic and Gathering

editorial note To be or not to be a Muslim

Alhamdulillah, this edition of TMR arrives with a brand new feel. Following the launch of the TMR application in 2012 on iTunes, Insha’Allah, the publication of this edition marks the launch of the TMR app on Android. Besides free edition of Teens’ Crossroads (TC), users can also look out for multimedia contents, including e-books of DA’s publications on the TMR app.

TMR, in this edition, specially brings together writings that explore some Chinese Muslim/Convert thoughts. Chinese Muslim Convert, Dr Yamin Cheng, explains the cultural and identity issues that the Chinese in and Singapore are facing. Sim Khadijah Mohammed, a daughter of a Chinese Muslim Convert, shares her experiences about growing up as a non-Malay-speaking born-Muslim. Candy Mak @ Nadia Mak, a Chinese Muslim Convert, expresses her thoughts about parenthood and her hopes about the future of her child, who is growing up with a mix of Malay-Chinese heritage.

With more contents and regular highlights, including an honorary tribute to the late author Syed Ahmad Semait’s works, Halal-lifestyle reviews, and opinions on Islamic finances, TMR also presents a fresh pictorial spread of activities and events that were happening at DA and around its people. TMR aspires to offer more variety, with improved and enriching contents, Insha’Allah, come every edition.

Special thanks to Epsilon Mobile, Adzen Touché, Carol Widjaya, Siti Zubeidah Kadir, and Dr Yamin Cheng for the help rendered in making TMR, from pre-production to post-production. May Allah (SWT) bless you for the contribution. Ameen.

managing editor aishah hussein [email protected]

the muslim reader 04 volume 32 • issue 01/2014 Selimiye Mosque Edirne, Turkey

The Selimiye Mosque is commissioned by Sultan Selim II. This Ottoman mosque was built by architect Mimar Sinan between 1568 and 1574. It was considered by Sinan to be his masterpiece and is one of the highest achievements of . Surrounded by four tall minarets, the Mosque has a grand dome atop it. The adjoining Social Complex includes two madrasahs, a bazaar, a clock house, a courtyard and a library. The mosque was included on UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 2011.

the muslim reader volume 32 • issue 01/2014 05 To be or not to be a

Necessary to build a support system so that Converts know the sweetness of being a Muslim in their very own identity.

text by YAMIN CHENG

et us begin with a story. or even awkward, for one to ask with this perception of Islam. The Once, there was a Muslim about religion. But this is the reality problem is, this perception comes who met a Chinese non- with many of the Chinese in both from many of both the Malays Muslim and was eager Singapore and Malaysia, when it and the Chinese. When a Chinese to tell him as much as he comes to Islam. For persons outside Muslim meets a Malay person, Lcould about Islam, with the hope Singapore and Malaysia, many he may be asked a question like, that the Chinese would become a may be wondering how religion ‘So, you are a Muslim. But are Muslim. He went into great lengths and ethnicity in these countries your parents Chinese?’ In some to impress the Chinese about why are so closely intertwined with one instances, Chinese customs and there is a God, the arguments for another that it is hard to distinguish practices are seen by some Malays God’s existence, what a belief in one from the other. Islam, for as un-Islamic, not because they do God holds for him, and so on and the people in these countries, is not conform to the Islamic beliefs so forth. When he finished his last indistinguishable from the Malay and practices, but because they breath of sentence, he asked the culture. To be Muslim is to be Malay are alien to Malay customs and Chinese if he had any questions that and -versa. For a Chinese, to practices. Eating with chopsticks needed clarification, and our friend be Muslim is not only to be Malay, is a unique Chinese practice, nodded. ‘I want to know,’ he said, but to give up his Chinese identity but to some Malays, this is not ‘If I become a Muslim, can I still eat once and for all. He is no longer a an acceptable Islamic practice wanton noodle?’ Chinese after becoming a Muslim. because the Malays do not eat with chopsticks but with their For many of the Muslims, such a Many Chinese Converts to Islam hands. Prophet Muhammad (SAW) question would have seemed weird, face the dilemma of having to live ate only with his hands, they say,

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The only way to deal with this situation, it seems, is for the Converts themselves to step in and offer practical contributions that would alter the status quo, or otherwise they may remain to lament at the stereotyping of their image as Muslims

and not to follow the Prophet’s conduct is tantamount to not following the Islamic way of life. For some Malays, it is imperative to have a Malay name because a Malay name is, after all, a Muslim name. For some other Malays, it is not only imperative to have a Malay or Muslim name, but it is also imperative to discard one’s Chinese name after becoming a Muslim because a Chinese name is not an Islamic name. Abdul Rahman is a Muslim and a Malay name and it means ‘servant of God,’ but Wan Tan Mee, what Islamic meaning perplexed situation, the situation is Muslim restaurants, are a step does it carry? accentuated with the absence of a in this direction. Restoran Mohd support system for those coming Chan, Restoran Sharin Low, Likewise, when a Chinese Convert into the religion. While it is true that Restoran Adam Lai, and Restoran to Islam meets a non-Muslim a number of the Converts are facing Yusof Ong, are some of these Chinese, one favourite question that financial problems or problems restaurants one can find around he is most likely asked is, ‘So, you having to deal with the conversion Kuala Lumpur. These restaurants have a Malay wife?’ If he says that issue with one’s parents or even serve the kind of dishes one finds his wife is not Malay or he is yet family, the cultural issue that has in a typical Chinese restaurant. But unmarried, he will be asked, rather everything to do with how is one a what is the significance of these curiously yet confusingly, ‘Then why Muslim and yet a Chinese remains restaurants? do you want to be a Malay?’ rather a core problem. The only way to than asking why do you want to be deal with this situation, it seems, is Chinese-Muslim Restaurants break a Muslim. for the Converts themselves to step Stereotype in and offer practical contributions These restaurants play a number How is One a Muslim and yet a that would alter the status quo, of crucial roles that alter the Chinese or otherwise they may remain to stereotyping image of the To be or not to be a Muslim? If lament at the stereotyping of their Chinese Muslims in Malaysia. On the question surrounding what image as Muslims. the one hand, since the dishes becoming a Muslim entails is are typical Chinese dishes one already putting a potential In Malaysia, for instance, Restoran finds in the country, this is giving Convert to Islam in quite a Cina Muslim, or Chinese-style the perception that a Chinese

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who comes into Islam need not they must be halal or permissible , and again, this will raise the abandon his Chinese culture. Only under the . question about how one is able to those aspects of the culture that retain one’s Singaporean Malaysian are not in tune with the Islamic On the other hand, this will also or Malaysian Singaporean Chinese norms and values are replaced remove the perception that to identity as a Muslim. with the ones that are in harmony practise the Chinese way in Islam, with the Islamic worldview and one will have to look to Muslims in Multiculturalism in Islamic practices; the others can still China. The dishes of the Muslims Practices continue to be preserved and in China, however, are different The appearance of the Chinese- practised. In the case of , one from the ones in Malaysia in many style Muslim restaurants may can still eat wantan mee, chee respects, and this can create a seem trivial and insignificant to cheong fun, la mai kai, dimsum, perception that to be a Muslim some people about how Islam and other Chinese dishes, only that means to be a Muslim like those in is perceived. Nay, it is, in fact,

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Some of the Chinese Muslims call themselves Converts, some call themselves Reverts, and some call themselves underground Muslims, the reason being that they are not ready to inform their loved ones that they have converted or that they have yet to register formally with the religious authorities regarding their conversion.

a huge answer that connects a Chinese coming into Islam to his cultural roots in his practice of Islam, while at the same time giving the non-Chinese Muslims something to think about regarding multiculturalism in Islamic practices. For instance, the Malays will come to see that equating Islam and Malay as one and the same is no longer the case. Added to this, Malays can too participate in the Chinese way in Islam, such as using chopsticks to eat.

Today, the number of Chinese Converts to Islam in Singapore and Malaysia has witnessed a significant increase in number. This development however is a cause of concern because the support system for the sustenance and maintenance of the Converts’ religious well-being and identity Muslims, the reason being that they On their part, Converts can help are not ready to cope with this are not ready to inform their loved alleviate the stereotyping of their development. Some of the Chinese ones that they have converted Muslim image by taking a number Muslims call themselves Converts, or that they have yet to register of steps for this purpose. A first some call themselves Reverts, and formally with the religious authorities step in this direction is for the some call themselves underground regarding their conversion. Converts to produce reading

the muslim reader volume 31 • issue 03/2013 09 feature

material that would be able to portray the Chinese Muslim life and thought that are commensurate with their Singaporean or Malaysian backgrounds. Converts can show, for instance, how Islam and Chinese culture and civilization are harmonious, rather than at odds, with one another.

For instance, Confucianism has been the bedrock of the Chinese identity, whether at the personal, Sharing Customs and Practices disguise in these. The best ideas social, or cultural level. Harmony Converts too need to explain how are produced in times when there of heaven and human is the theme some of the Chinese customs and is a dearth of ideas. This is where that runs through the whole of the practices are commensurate with the Converts can play a significant Confucian worldview. How is this the norms and values of Islam. The role in charting the of perspective of the world is too Spring Festival, more commonly the Chinese Muslims, and, at the an Islamic perspective of it? How known as the Chinese New Year, same time, show the existing is the Confucian understanding is an occasion that without it, the Muslims how they can bring about of heaven relevant to the Muslim Chinese identity means nothing. the harmony of civilizations, in understanding of God? Family is the Can the Chinese Muslims celebrate particular between the Islamic and centre of human relationship that is this occasion? If the answer is yes, the Chinese that, for many non- the measurement of one’s human how do Chinese Muslims celebrate Chinese, these two civilizations are quality through the practice of filial it so that this occasion is also an like two streams flowing in different piety between children and parents, Islamic occasion? paths and directions. trust between friends and friends, and loyalty between citizens and For some Converts, becoming a If there is anyone who could bring government. Can this view of the Muslim seems to be an arduous about the changes in the perception family as the centre of human challenge as they have to face of the identity of the Chinese relationship and the measurement numerous issues and problems Muslims in Singapore and Malaysia, of one’s human quality be the basis regarding their Muslim identity, it is the Converts themselves. We of the Chinese Muslim practice not to mention the absence of a may lament and sigh, but we must of social relationship, and how is sound support system for their do the necessary, only then will this related to the idea of ummah educational, welfare, and personal we know the sweetness of being a (community) in Islam? needs. But, there is a blessing in Muslim in our very own identity. TMR

the muslim reader 10 volume 32 • issue 01/2014 the muslim reader volume 32 • issue 01/2014 11 lifestyle

Islamic Finance from a Singaporean Perspective

Get familiar with the system and find out how we can help this Halal economic system to flourish.

text by UMAR MUNSHI

was introduced to Islamic basic Google research, which was obviously, Islamic Finance does Finance when a respected eye-opening. And I intend to find not engage in haram (prohibited) friend’s mother shared with out more. or socially undesirable business me the merits of taking up activities. Our money is an amanah a (Islamic Insurance) The basics of Islamic Finance made (trust), as it is a blessing from Allah Iplan. Takaful was alien to me, a lot of sense to me - beyond (SWT). It is thus our duty to use it and so was the idea of pairing logic, it is based on divine wisdom only for good. finance with Islam. ‘Islamic and prophetic tradition. Islam has Insurance’, ‘Halal Coverage’, given us the perfect approach to of ‘Shari’ah-compliant Investing’ – money, business and the economy. such terms could not permeate If we had kept things true to our Next we have the prohibition of my understanding. I had been principles, we probably would not riba (interest). Ust Haron Akhtar, an an entrepreneur since National have so much injustice and inequity Islamic Finance scholar and Shari‘ah Service, and for some reason, in this world. In Singapore, our Advisor has this to share about riba: I kept money-making activities average income is 30% higher than and religious concepts separate. I that of the top 1% in the world. On There are many types and brushed off this initial discomfort the other extreme, one third of the applications of riba, but for and decided to listen. I let my world lives on less than $2 a day! simplicity and relevance to the defences down and began modern-day context, the most accepting some of the ideas that Purely Halal System common involvement in riba are she shared. But I was not ready transactions with interest on money. to embrace Islamic Finance – not Let us quickly explore and analyse Paying a much higher price on in- yet. After that session, I did some a few fundamentals. Firstly, and house instalments for a 3D TV at

the muslim reader 12 volume 32 • issue 01/2014 lifestyle

“Seeking wealth and becoming rich through halal (permissible) means is encouraged in Islam, but to attain wealth by causing burden to humanity is in conflict with the spirit of brotherhood which Islam emphasises on. Riba is the major cause of inflation, which causes great trauma and depression and it also puts losses to the borrowers rather than sharing profits and losses. The list of evils of riba goes on… riba is not just evil, it is definitely the greatest evil to humanity!”

Courts may not be wise, but it is not viewed as an opportunity for riba as we are not paying interest From Jabir (RA): The Prophet Islamic Finance. Our government on money. Paying interest on credit (SAW) cursed the receiver has allowed us to practise Islam cards is riba. Charging a fee for a and the payer of riba, the one to a large extent, for example, personal loan is riba. Do ponder by putting into the constitution who records it and the two over this Hadith: the Association of Muslim Law witnesses to the transaction Act (AMLA), and the existence and said: ‘They are all alike [in Listen to Scholars and Experts of of the Shari‘ah Court. We have a Shari‘ah guilt].’ (Sahih al-Muslim, Sahih unique ability to coalesce around Al-Bukhari, Tirmidhi) shared goals because of our small The industry is replete with highly- and tightly-knit community. The qualified scholars and impressive expansion of Islamic Finance experts in Shari‘ah, who understand services in Singapore must be the underlying foundations of It is essential for us to trust and undertaken as one such goal. (Islamic Banking) and appreciate these scholars, and the Islamic economic system. refrain from slanderous accusations We need to a two-pronged Last year, I had the opportunity against them, especially on public approach in supporting the to co-organise a two-day regional platforms such as the social media. development of Islamic Finance: dialogue with International Shari’ah This unfortunately occurs from time Research Academy for Islamic to time, although Alhamdulillah it Finance (ISRA) Malaysia (a body has reduced recently. Differences in 1. All Muslims need to become under Bank Negara), where 200 opinion will always exist, and these customers of existing scholars from Southeast Asia should be discussed with wisdom providers convened to discuss about Shari‘ah and (proper etiquette). issues and applications in Islamic 2. Our Entrepreneurs need Finance. These religious leaders Communal Support to start Islamic Finance are serious and thorough in their businesses research and development of Singapore has a small Muslim Shari‘ah in Islamic Finance. community, and this should be

the muslim reader volume 32 • issue 01/2014 13 lifestyle

Islamic Finance is not perfect, but it is a long-overdue beginning to a more Islamic system of commerce

More Attractive than Conventional If you are to share about Islamic growth sectors and opportunities. Finance Finance to two people today, then Insha’Allah, we will see the these two do the same tomorrow, introduction of a few new services Muslims are the ‘natural market’ for and this chain continues, we can and players this year, including my Islamic Finance providers, as these actually reach 680,000 Muslims in own ventures with my partners. services are created specifically only 20 days! for Muslims. A pleasant surprise Islamic Finance is not perfect, but is that Islamic Finance services We also need Islamic Finance it is a long-overdue beginning are not only competitive; they startups. We must not and cannot to a more Islamic system of can often be more attractive than leave the development of Islamic commerce. It is our duty to be part conventional ones. Islamic Savings Finance solely to banks and of it, to nurture it and to protect it. accounts in Singapore historically financial institutions. The nature Protection does not imply blindly give a hiba (gift) rate of 0.8 to 1% of Islamic Finance is, at its core, accepting and following; on the (non-guaranteed), way higher than community-based. contrary, we ourselves need to conventional savings interest rates ensure that the industry grows in of close to 0%. It is even three times Social Motive in Effort accordance with the spirit of Islam. higher than one-year term-deposits To do so effectively, we need to giving interest of around 0.3%. The profit motive is accepted in get educated and understand the Halal Equity Funds are also among Islam but it is secondary to the fundamentals of Islamic Finance. the best-performing funds around, social motive. Monolithic institutions especially in these past few volatile unfortunately tend to lose the Get involved. Together, let us shape years. social element in business, thus the future of Islamic Finance in

the entrepreneurs and SMEs must Singapore, Insha’Allah. TMR We must all strive to support contribute to the industry from the the Islamic Finance industry, by bottom-up. Early stage venture- using their services and becoming capital or crowd-funding, training The writer is Head, Investor Relations, customers. At the same time, we and education, advisory services Ethis Pte. Ltd, and Business Development Director, Amanah Asset Management Pte need to encourage and motivate or community organisations, such Ltd. The views expressed in this article are those around us to do the same. as cooperatives, are possible solely the author’s.

the muslim reader 14 volume 32 • issue 01/2014 house of arqam

Al-Mawrid Resource Library organised a book reading by Dato’ Aidit Ghazali (below).

The book is suitable for businesspeople, educators, and influencers who want to improve on their explanation skills and start solving explanation problems.

The book features tools, tactics and techniques that help readers to plan, present and package their remarkable ideas with visual and media.

The book reading on ‘The Art of Explanation’, written by Lee Lefever, was attended by about 30 participants.

The event was held on 29 November 2013, Friday.

PHOTOGRAPHS BY MOHD AMIN TEO

the muslim reader volume 32 • issue 01/2014 15 The Muslim Converts’ Association of Singapore (Darul Arqam Singapore)

Tower of Love staying happily married workshop

For more information on the know each other better next available dates of this build a stronger trust workshop, kindly email to the muslim reader solidify16 volume 32 • issue 01/2014your commitment [email protected] journal Aid to Syrian Refugees in Turkey

Beyond politics and religion, this Humanitarian Aid Project reaches out to the Syrians who are trying to rebuild their lives in Turkey.

text & photographs by MUHAMMAD TIMUZI ADNAN (TIM ALDEN)

>> CHANGI AIRPORT Mission Aim The Power of Supplication A small mission from Singapore The aim of our mission was and is Two months prior to this trip when departed from Changi Airport simple: to reach out to some of the the project was first initiated, we Terminal 1, at 12.30am of 5 displaced Syrians (in this case, in knew it would be an enormous November 2013, on Turkish airlines Turkey) who are undergoing this challenge. The only way this aid TK 0067 bound for Istanbul / massive human tragedy, express mission could be successful would Gaziantep on the Syrian border. our love and concern, and report be to seek Allah’s help. Nothing back to others the situation with a is easy unless Allah (SWT) makes There were no CNN reporters, call to action. This is so that these it easy. I believe all the volunteer paparazzi or camera flashlights, fellow human beings are not denied steering committee members made just a few good souls to cheer the opportunity to continue and a lot of supplication (doa) to lift on the humble team of three rebuild their lives whilst a bloody, the burdens of the task upon us, consisting of Muhammad Nassir, savage and pointless war rages on especially considering everyone’s representing Simply Islam, myself in their homeland. heavy normal work commitments. Muhammad Timuzi Adnan (Tim We were counting on those doa Alden) representing MEX (Muslim Regardless of race or religion, now, as our hearts weighed heavily Expatriates Network, a division they are our brothers and sisters with what was ahead of us. of AMP) and Muhammad Faizal in humanity, who right now are in Wahab of Religious & Educational a hopeless situation. As all faiths >> GAZIANTEP League of Radin Mas (BAPA). teach, it is our duty to extend After a six-hour stopover at our support to ensure they are Istanbul, we arrived in Gaziantep This was the start of our ‘Aid housed, fed, clothed, and medically at 2.20 pm and were met by 2 Syrian Refugees in Turkey’ treated. Importantly, their children Muhammad, a Syrian volunteer for simple humanitarian aid mission, are not denied an ongoing proper Kimse Yok Mu (KYM), or its English beyond politics and religion, and education, at least until such meaning: Is Anybody There, and most importantly, with love from a time that they regain their Favzy Çakmak, General Manager Singapore. independence. and Director for KYM in Gaziantep.

the muslim reader volume 32 • issue 01/2014 17 journal

That evening, over our first of heartedness and compassion of the Syria leaving behind a formerly many Kebabs to come, they shared Turkish people, the aid agencies prosperous business. Muhammad is with us various facts and figures (such as KYM), and the Turkish now a University student supported of the situation - some of which Government. They made it clear by the Turkish Government and a are available online through http:// that the Syrians were not ‘refugees’. volunteer for KYM. He did all the www.asrit.sg and our http://www. Rather, they are ‘guests of Turkey’ translating for us over the three days facebook.com/ASRIT.SG. and were welcomed to stay until in Gaziantep. His father is working the war ends, thus upholding the with KYM in Hatay. Displaced Syrians rightful dignified status of the Syrian In essence, Muhammad and Favzy guests. >> KILIS estimated that the official number of displaced Syrians in Turkey was How can I eat when My Neighbour Visiting the Trauma Ward around 600,000, whereas the is hungry? After a good night’s rest, we unofficial figure suggested it to As is the Islamic tradition (and of all took a one-hour drive to Kilis the be over one million. These are the the great faiths), it is unbecoming following morning. We visited a Syrians who, as we learnt first-hand to eat when your neighbour is small healthcare centre, an old hotel, over the next two days, fled the hungry, thus the Turkish people opened in September 2012 by KYM. country with a few “grab bags” while have unequivocally extended their There was a staff of 10 members, leaving everything behind. They left hospitality to their guests, providing which included two Syrian-born hurriedly either because their homes shelter, blankets, food, medical doctors. An average of 150 refugees had been destroyed by bombs or provisions and education. This was treated in the polyclinic, where because their situation had become is from the hands of the Turkish small-scale surgical interventions too unsafe. Their livelihood and people and their Government, also were performed. The patients income were shattered and they are not through international aid. were mostly men of varying ages now truly dependent on the mercy Considering Turkey is a non- “oil who had been gravely wounded of God. rich” nation, this is a great testimony in the war. Most of them were to the sincerity and unswerving undergoing treatment for trauma Another alarming statistic estimated faith in the Almighty of the Turkish and physiotherapy for severe nerve as many as 10 out of 22 million people and their leaders. damage; some were still in their Syrians are displaced, either within teens or early twenties. Despite the Syria or neighbouring countries such Muhammad’s Story tragedy, their faces showed that of as Turkey, Iraq, Lebanon, Jordan and Muhammad also shared with us his courage, faith and steadfastness. . own story. His father, a successful Notably here, there is a serious need and wealthy trader, had been for drugs to support these patients. Compassion of the Turkish People helping the war efforts through The most heart-warming thing we donations. Soon it became too Ballads of Freedom heard was in regard to the kind- dangerous and they had to escape In total, KYM is supporting five

the muslim reader 18 volume 32 • issue 01/2014 journal

schools in the City of Kilis. We we moved on to the daily food the foothills. We could only imagine visited two of them and took the distribution centre, where hot food the plight of our Syrian brothers and effort to enter each classroom. is served to 1,000 Syrian guests of sisters, and how they must long to What met us was amazing. These Turkey every day from the mobile return one day to a peaceful Syria brave young children were happy set up by the KYM of across those sacred hills to reclaim to see us. They sung us ballads of Gaziantep Branch. their dreams. freedom and independence in their Arabic tongue. The atmosphere We were honoured to spend some >> GAZIANTEP became heart-moving when a time serving the , which young boy came up to the front of consisted of three scoops each of Distributing Food Boxes and the class and recited a doa in Arabic cous cous and . The Blankets to 10 Families alongside some verses of the , guests lined up to pass a three litre calling for peace and return to their plastic yoghurt bowl to receive their After our now customary of former freedom and independence. food. This made us appreciate how Kebab at the hour known as ‘Kebab fortunate we, in Singapore, are to be O’ Clock’, we spent the evening Parents shot in Cold in front able to eat so well. back in Gaziantep, with a visit to the of their 5-year-old Son Turkish barber. I later read an article Another young boy held his arms Favzi Çakmak stated, “Syrian by Imam Afroz , who had recently up with his hands gesturing the refugee families could feel, even been on a similar visit, telling a international sign for victory and for a moment, that they are away story about a local Turkish barber. peace. He was smiling defiantly. It from war and eat their meals, and Every day after business, the barber was explained to us that both his said, ‘It is an honour to be by our goes down to the food distribution parents were shot dead before his Syrian brothers’ side during their centres taking his earnings for the eyes. I thought of my own three- hard times’. If there was no war, day and using them to buy food for year-old Muhammad Ali and nine- they wouldn’t be in this state. We distribution to his Syrian neighbours. month-old Nur Aliyah, and my provide hot meals to them on a daily When asked why, he would tell stomach churned. We never know basis. We have distributed and we people, “How can I rest when my how fate may deal us a similar blow; will continue to distribute cleaning neighbour is hungry?” As the story only this time around, it is the fate supplies, clothing, blankets and our spread, it is not uncommon for of the Syrian people. May we be aids.” people to pay ‘donations’ of even protected from such similar destiny. US$100 for a haircut! Ameen. At the top of the city, where there was a 16th century Ottoman >> KILIS Hot Meals for 1,000 People Mosque, a tomb of the mystic Every day Saint Muhammed Bedevi, and a We spent this day distributing food After another of Kebab and dramatic view of the Syrian hills in boxes with , flour, oil Baklava (famous in that region), the distance, we saw the sun set on and other essentials, including a

the muslim reader volume 32 • issue 01/2014 19 journal

blanket to ten of the families housed We conducted interviews and learnt driven to the Syrian border to see in Kilis. We visited each home, that all their stories were much the one of the ‘government container interviewed the families, and sought same. People were forced to leave cities’ where about 20 thousand their permission to take video and because of the war, the dangers, and Syrian guests were placed. Due to pictures. One thing that should a non-existent economy. Most were security reasons, we were unable be made known is that these are holding up under the circumstances, to enter it. everyday families - like you or I. We and one or two had clear signs of should not think of them as the depression on their faces. There is From the outside, there was a 4 km poor and homeless, rather as people little for them to do in the daytime. line of container trucks waiting to oppressed by circumstances. They The families were all very thankful enter Syria. We were told that they are average middle-class, educated for the first bit of small support that could take up to four days to get people. It is very important that we could give them from Singapore. across the border, thus crippling the their lives, honour and dignity are They had the red T-shirts with the Syrian economy. not trodden upon. At any time, a Singapore flags on, put them on the tragedy such as this can come upon kids, and they all chanted in unison It was Thursday night, after sunset. peoples of our own cities. Nothing is “Thank you Singapore”. The melancholic sound of the Holy ever impossible. Quran recitation came through The temperature was around 10 the loudspeakers, set behind Meagre Accommodation degrees in Kilis, and winter was fast barbed wire fences. The scene was The homes we visited were approaching. It was expected to go somewhat apocalyptic, with some rented, and paid for by the Turkish to 5 degrees very soon. It would get 20 thousand people - placed behind government or agencies, like KYM. very cold in those bare concrete this barbed fortress - waiting for the Approximately three square metres basement rooms. We shall be day when they could walk in safety (3 sq m) in area, the low-ceiling thinking of them. to reclaim their motherland from its place was bare, unpainted, made of smouldering remains. cold concrete, and had no furniture Government Container City but a toilet behind a sheet for an By late afternoon we reached Farewells & Reflections entire family of four to six members. Kebab O clock. After a late That night we bade our farewells Light was natural, they were about and prayers, we headed back to to our new friends and boarded as simple an accommodation as you the food distribution centre to an eight-hour coach journey to could find. meet the KYM Manager for Kilis, Konya to pay homage to the mystic Recep Kahraman. We were then and poet Mavlana Jalalludin Rumi.

the muslim reader 20 volume 32 • issue 01/2014 journal

“He who removes from a believer one of his difficulties of this world, Allah (God) will Maybe the Syrian people are finding “I love the one, who sheds tears remove one of his troubles solace in his poetry; maybe through silently, and cries by having on the , their human suffering they have fear from me… The heart which and he who finds relief for an been able to conquer their lower self I fit within is washed by these oppressed person, Allah will and soar. tears, and I bestow forgiveness make things easy for him on (maghfirat) to the one who the day of resurrection. Allah “Dance, when you’re broken open. washes My house with (these supports His slave as long as Dance, if you’ve torn the bandage tears)… I do not allow the tears the slave is supportive of his off. Dance in the middle of the shed for the sake of My Love fighting. Dance in your blood. and fear (HAWF) to drop on the brother.” Prophet Muhammad (SAW), Dance when you’re perfectly free.” ground. I destroy the ground by Rumi the right of my might (izzat)!” Sahih Muslim Prof Dr Munir Derman, Water, What we had witnessed in the past Volume 1 three days were people whose lives especially now as one of the most had undoubtedly been broken to the What is Aid 2 Syrian Refugees in bitter winters in recent history is limits. Many had lost loved ones, got Turkey or ASRIT? upon them. separated from their communities, It is a call to action to raise and lost all their possessions. S$500,000 by 31 December 2014. “Those who spend their wealth (in Despite all the hardships they had The national appeal was launched Allah’s Cause) by night and day, been through, there was more than on Saturday, 14 December 2013, at in secret and in public, they shall a flicker of hope in their eyes. What the Singapore Expo, in front of a have their reward with their Lord. we could see was that thing called crowd of over 900 people, and as of On them shall be no fear, nor shall faith. 14 February 2014, ASRIT has raised they grieve.” close to S$130,000. (Al-Baqarah, 02:274) TMR It is only when we are really broken do we truly ‘bow’ to the One that The Virtues of Humanitarian is always present and never absent. Assistance “Charity Obliterates sin just as water extinguishes fire, said Prophet Muhammad However much human livelihood can These refugees are in dire need of (SAW). be destroyed, the soul will always be many basic supplies like medical, Aid to Syrian Refugees in Turkey (ASRIT) alive, and will continue to dance and shoes, winter clothing, baby With Love from Singapore www.asrit.sg be enlivened through faith. milk powder, blankets and tents, www.facebook.com/ASRIT.SG

the muslim reader volume 32 • issue 01/2014 21 lifestyle The Lift Me Up Project

review by SYEDA ADIBA HUSAIN

spend a good amount of time her colleague, Juita Jayaram, an on the Internet. I must admit, What is Life Me Up? engineer by profession, but also a it is one of my best friends. The Lift Me Up Project is the talented artist - check out her other It is the friend, which could brainchild of a Malaysian known works here: https://www.facebook. com/Doodlejj. give countless books, audio as Umm Nuh (mother of Nuh), recordings, videos and pictures for I who aims to encourage people free; links you up with people across to always search for tranquility the globe; takes you on virtual The prints, either fitted in your own in the words of the Creator tours that are out of this world or pre-ordered frame, will add (both literally and metaphorically); as well as that of the Prophet cheer when hung on a wall in your teaches you; and assists in providing through uniquely illustrated house. All the A4 Art Prints can information on many of our drawings. be converted to A3 size, and vice everyday needs. versa, upon request.

Yes, it would not be right to ignore The Purpose of Lift Me Up the cries of activists and parents Umm Nuh was searching for a way that highlight the dark side of to utilise her passion for design in a the Internet. However, when we meaningful and beneficial way. responsibly take out the trash and The mother of two explains that avoid the filth, much benefit can be many of us know Islam is the source reaped from this invention. of peace, but may not actually know or remember the exact location of There is really no end to the number the soothing reminders in Allah’s of “places” you can visit and benefit book and in the words of the from the Internet. One such place Prophet (SAW). that I recently came to know about Driven to spread the message is www.theliftmeupproject.com. of peace in Islam, she left her corporate job early in 2012 and The The Mastermind Lift Me Up Project was born. A graduate of Industrial and Management Engineering, with a Products minor in electronic arts, Umm Nuh These gems come in the form has a knack for graphic design and of A3 prints, A4 prints and car is passionate about parenting as window stickers, and are a result of well. teamwork between Umm Nuh and

the muslim reader 22 volume 32 • issue 01/2014 lifestyle

Where & How to Buy Those of you who live in or visit Malaysia regularly can purchase the art prints and the car window stickers from The Lift Me Up Project’s official resellers:

1. Zaahara (http://zaahara.com/) 2. Dakwah Corner Bookstore (http://www.dakwahbookstore.com.my/).

International reseller, Inspire Me Art, sells the artwork to the UK and USA. If you are unable to buy the artwork through these stores, you may contact The Lift Me Up Project personally and they will arrange the delivery specially for you . For The Phone The Lift Me Up Project has a mobile App too, which can be downloaded from iTunes for USD$1.99 (about S$2.50).

Limited edition phone covers for iPhone 4 and iPhone 5 are available at about S$15.00 each.

n S$18 - A3 size without frame n S$28 - A3 size with frame n S$10 - A4 size without frame n S$18 - A4 with frame

All prices are excluding shipping costs. Payment for the above mentioned prints can be made through PayPal through [email protected] or online bank transfer, and would take around 2 to 5 working days to be received via PosLaju.

The Lift Me Up Project is also open to those who wish to be their official resellers in Singapore.

How about chucking away that wait for an App compatible with our Get Connected tough attitude decal on your car phones for now. More details can be found on window and replacing it with The Lift Me Up Project’s official something far better? Since we Dollars & Cents website. Do drop by and support live in Singapore, we are bound to If your pockets don’t run so deep, this unique endeavour dedicated to need remineders on patience and there is no need to fret. The prices the (community)! Every year they forebearance due to the seemingly of the artwork range from around strive to launch new products, so interminable stress. Perhaps, it S$5.80 to S$28.00, depending on stay connected with them on your would prevent the profanities what you purchase and from where. preferred social media to receive from spewing out next time we are For those living in Singapore, and updates on their progress. caught in a jam. who would like to order the A3 and www.facebook.com/theliftmeupproject A4 sized prints directly from The twitter.com/liftmeup2012 Yes, I understand your Lift Me Up Project, the following www.pinterest.com/momofnuh/the-lift- disappointment, fellow Android information may be helpful. me-up-project/ users, but we must (be patient) and TMR

the muslim reader volume 32 • issue 01/2014 23 house of arqam

Darul Arqam Bursary Award Presentation on 6 October 2013, Sunday.

A total amount of $63,000 was disbursed on this day to 29 successful applicants.

PHOTOGRAPHS BY MOHD AMIRUL MOHD YUNOS

Applicants were examined to ensure their aptitudes and suitability in the area they wish to continue their studies.

Left: DA President, Muhd Faiz @ Edwin Ignatious M, handed the bursary to a visually-impaired student, Masayang Abdul Samad, who is pursuing a certificate in Islamic Psychology and another certificate in Counselling.

the muslim reader 24 volume 32 • issue 01/2014 the muslim reader volume 32 • issue 01/2014 25 lifestyle Arabic for Beginners: Greetings and Introduction

at-taHiyyah wat-tacaaruf

al-Hiwaar The dialogue

Ahmad: assalaamucalaikum Peace be upon you

Khalid: wacalaikumussalaam Peace be upon you too

Ahmad: SabaaHul-khair Good morning

Khalid: SabaaHun-nuur Good morning (reply)

Ahmad: kaifa Haaluka? How are you? al-Hiwaar The dialogue Khalid: bikhair, alHamdulillah Fine, praise be to Allah Ahmad: anaa min miSr I’m from Egypt Ahmad: anaa ismii aHmad, mas-muka? My name is Ahmad, What’s your name? Khalid: mashaAllah! uHibbu miSr! Wow! I love Egypt! Khalid: ismii Khalid My name is Khalid Ahmad: shukran thanks Ahmad: min aina anta yaa Khalid? Where are you from Khalid? Khalid: furSah saciidah nice to meet you Khalid: anaa min sanghaafuurah, wa anta? Ahmad: anal ascad I’m from Singapore, and you? the pleasure is mine

the muslim reader 26 volume 32 • issue 01/2014 lifestyle

VOCABS

Words Arabic Combination Word salaam peace assalaamucalaikum an Arabic greeting often used by calaa Muslims around the world. It is said upon (on) when people meet each other which means “Peace be upon you”. … kum The reply will be your (plural) wa’alaikumussalaam; which means “Peace be upon you too” wa and

SabaaH morning SabaaHul khair good morning khair and the reply is “SabaaHun nuur”; goodness (well-being) a morning full of light, is a common reply which would nuur mean wishing that the person’s light morning is full of brightness and positivity akin to the bright and cheerful morning sunshine kaifa? how? kaifa Haaluka / ki How are you? Haal condition / situation

… ka / ki your *(m) / your (f) bi… with (in) bikhair fine (in a good condition)

Hamd praise alHamdulillah Thank God ( a positive or neutral li… response to How are you?); That’s for… good (a positive reaction to news); I have had my fill ( a signal that one has finished eating) anaa ism name ismii … ii My name is my

the muslim reader volume 32 • issue 01/2014 27 lifestyle

VOCABS

Words Arabic Combination Word maa? what? anta / anti you* (m) / you (f) min aina anta / ti Where are you from? min from aina? where? yaa … oh … san-ghaa-fuu-rah Singapore miSr Egypt shaa’a wills / wants masyaAllah Wow! (when praising or admiring something or someone, it expresses sincere good will) uHibbu I like / love shukran thanks furSah chance / opportunity furSah Saciidah Nice to meet you; literally means www.as-souq.com saciid happy chance (meeting you). The happy reply “anal ascad” means I’m the happier (one) which carries the ascad same underlying meaning in happier English context of saying “the pleasure is mine” Page name: *(m) refers to male and (f) refers to female. As-Souq (www.facebook.com/ As.Souq.AllAboutArabic) “Learn Arabic, for it strengthens the intelligence and increases one’s noble conduct (al-muruu’ah)” - Umar ibn al-Khattab Website: www.as-souq.com

the muslim reader 28 volume 32 • issue 01/2014 spotlight

The Hijab Way Of Guarding Modesty A look inside how some views the role of Hijab.

text by SHAIK KADIR

uslim women wearing Part of Righteousness playing her body if she is a believer the tudung (headscarf) The hijab is part of observing in Allah (SWT). is a common sight in the practices of Islam as Islam is Singapore. a wholesome way of living that Thus, in “guarding her modesty”, includes believing in Allah (SWT) the Muslim woman wears any MThe tudung, a Malay word, or jilbab, and obeying His commands in every blouse that covers the arms right to an Arabic word, is the Muslim aspect of social life. Hijab is part of the wrists, and pants or skirts that woman’s headscarf, worn to righteousness that enhances one’s cover the legs right to the ankles or conform to the Islamic dress code, spiritual purity. Islam teaches people any robe-like dress. called hijab, which requires covering to have faith in Allah (SWT) and the whole body except the face and carry out His commands: believe To observe modesty, the Muslim hands in observing modesty. and practise righteousness. woman is taught that the earlier in her life she starts wearing Islami- Many tudung-clad Muslim women cally-approved attire (hijab), the in Singapore are professionals, Mary, the mother of Jesus better it is for her well-being both school teachers, civil servants Christ, was always depicted in in the worldly and spiritual sense. and entrepreneurs as well as paintings in hijab – covering her So, often, she begins wearing hijab madrasah (Islamic school) students head and her body. And Mary is upon reaching puberty as advised and tertiary-level students and mentioned in the Quran in high by Prophet Muhammad (SAW) housewives. esteem as a woman “above the who said: “A girl who has attained women of all nations” (Al-Imran, puberty should start covering her In advocating societal modesty, 03:42). She was a great believer whole body except her face and Islam teaches Muslim men and in Allah (SWT). hands.” women to present a good image of themselves as Muslims. One of the Other Muslim women, depending ways is to cover their aurah (parts In the Quran, Allah (SWT) says that on their individual level of knowl- of the body that should not be ex- a believing woman should “guard edge of Islam, religious awareness, posed). The woman’s aurah is her her modesty and not display her religious opportunities, or from the whole body except the face and beauty” (Al-Nur, 24:31). In the el- time they performed the Hajj (pil- hands. Hijab is covering the awrah. egant expression of the Quran, this grimage in ) or (minor verse asks a woman to avoid dis- pilgrimage) would begin to wear

the muslim reader volume 32 • issue 01/2014 29 spotlight

the words ‘Test drive me’. Thus, Islam’s advice to women to observe modesty is actually to provide sta- tus and respect to them.”

“In Islam, every woman is given the opportunity to attain the highest level of piety at all times. There is no restriction as to the colour, fashion or cultural origin of the dress. As a Muslim woman can be of any race – Indian, Arab, Malay, European, Af- rican, Chinese, American or Filipino – she can observe the Islamic dress code in any way she desires.”

“The dress code of Islam is actu- ally a liberating force for women. Definitely, wearing Islamic dress, which includes the headdress, does not deter our thinking ability or our the hijab at some point in time of lam and attend lectures on Islam. intellectual capability. The Muslim their adult life. Therefore, they understand Islam woman observes the Islamic dress better.” code to obey Allah (SWT) and to Muslim women who have been uplift and maintain her spiritual asked why they wear the hijab had “I dress the way I do for religious purity.” given various and varied reasons reasons. People will accept you for that include: what you are, what you stand for “A Muslim woman observes the Is- and the contributions you make.” lamic dress code to earn the love of “There is no compulsion in Islam, Allah (SWT), safeguard her modesty yet, you see more and more women “The hijab provides the Muslim as well as promote decency in the are wearing the hijab nowadays. woman the right to keep her body society.” This happens because of Islamic sacred and not made to be exploit- awareness or awakening. As more ed and gawked at by men, even in “Since I wore the tudung (heads- Muslim women become educated, advertisements. One such advertise- carf), many good things happened they learn more about Islam from ment of a car shows a half-naked to me. When I wear the tudung I am the Quran. They read about Is- woman leaning against the car with more respected. When my waiting

the muslim reader 30 volume 32 • issue 01/2014 spotlight

There are many highly educated Caucasian converts who cover their heads. Among those who are seen with the hijab and involved in speaking for Muslim understanding are the following Muslims:

n Lauren Booth, English broadcaster and journalist, who is the sister-in-law of the former British Prime Minister, Tony Blair. n Yvonne Ridley, British journalist and war correspondent, who was once captured by the Taliban in Afghanistan. n Myriam Francois Cerrah, former British actress, who is now (2013) due to complete her PhD in Oriental Studies at the University of Oxford. n Susan Carland, Australian. She teaches gender politics and sociology at Monash University, Melbourne. n Dr Ingrid Mattson, Canadian, who is professor of at Hartford Seminary, US. male fans in saw me wear- not a universal instruction from the appropriate hijab for Muslim ing the tudung, they hesitated and Quran. Islam does not instruct that sportswomen in any sport. asked me first whether they could all Muslim women in the world must embrace me. Of course, I said, ‘No’.” wear white head-cover, black robes, Some do not wear hijab (Nur Shahila Amir Hamzah, popu- or cover their faces. There are also Muslim women who lar singer, who started wearing the do not wear the hijab but that does tudung after returning from Umrah, The costume of any race, culture, or not mean that they are less Muslim. a minor pilgrimage in Mecca, as fashion choice, can be worn as long They may perform their daily solat reported in Berita Harian.) as it fulfils the requirement of the (prayers) and fast in Ramadhan. Islamic dress code of modesty. Although they do not wear the hijab, “Man in the early times was almost they may be modestly dressed, naked, and as his intellect evolved Muslim Women in Sports wearing long-sleeved blouses and he started wearing clothes. What Sports are not haram (prohibited) long pants, as well as the baju I am today and what I’m wear- in Islam. Hence, Muslim women do kurung or Punjabi suit. They wear ing represents the highest level of participate in international sporting the hijab when they go for terawih thought and civilization that man competitions like the Olympics. prayers in Ramadhan and when they has achieved, and is not regressive. The first athlete to ever take part attend Islamic functions. Some of It’s the removal of clothes again that in an Olympics wearing a hijab these women, when asked, do say is regressive back to ancient times.” was sprinter Ruqaya Al-Ghasara that they would use the hijab sooner (Tawakkul Karman, the first Arab of Bahrain in 2004. Then, in 2008, or later. woman and youngest Nobel Peace in the Beijing Olympics, 12 of them Laureate when asked about her wore Islamic garbs. Since then, A blog, The , under hijab by journalists, as reported in Muslim sportswomen in hijab has “Requirements of the Muslim Haute Hijab.) become commonplace. woman’s dress”, mentions that anyone can wear a headscarf – Muslim women heed Allah’s advice US fencer, Ibtihaj Muhammad, an gypsies, fashion models and certain on modesty in different ways African-American Muslim woman, non-Muslim communities. But it based on their respective cultural in an entry on the Women’s Media takes much more than that to background. In Inner Mongolia, Center, said: “Sports is something fulfil the conditions of the Islamic where I visited, almost all the you can do in a hijab. You shouldn’t dress-code. The hijab is an entire Chinese Muslim women in a social let your faith compromise how ath- way of dressing and behaving in gathering were wearing identical letically gifted you become.” accordance with Islamic teachings hat-like white headgear. Some to obey the commands of Allah women in countries like Pakistan Suitable and appropriate hijab (SWT). TMR and Afghanistan cover the whole for any specific sport is no longer body, including the face, but this is a concern in today’s context. a tradition of certain communities, Enterprises have come up with

the muslim reader volume 32 • issue 01/2014 31 opinion Implications of Islam on the Economic Sphere An overview of the principles and motivations in Islam towards fair and ethical financial dealings. text by HYDER GULAM

ust as Islam seeks to spread justice and equality, the implications of a Halal (permissible) way of life is to establish social justice. Fazlur RahmanJ states, in Man in Society, in his view, there is “no doubt that a central aim of the Quran is to establish a viable social order on Earth that will be just and ethically based”. But, this is not a top down approach, rather it is from the grassroots up, based on civil society.

The basis for the Islamic view is taqwa (piety), as this is the key to the absolute guidance from Allah (SWT). According to Al-Habib Hasan bin Muhammad Al-Attas, in the book called Taqwa and Knowledge, taqwa is composed of tauhid (oneness of God), iman

the muslim reader 32 volume 32 • issue 01/2014 opinion

(faith), amal (good deeds), and view of economics is based on The economic disparities were most ikhlas (sincerity). According to justice and equality, building such steadfastly condemned, because Al-Habib these are values “from a system in the 21st Century can they were the most challenging to the chest of treasures that lead indeed provide a viable opportunity cure and were at the heart of social to happiness in this world and the to decrease wealth disparity, and discord in the community: in short, Hereafter”. It is these very same reduce poverty. This is not surprising the wealth gap. elements that are the necessary given that an Islamic social order building blocks for an Islamic life, and social life are ‘inclined towards Mecca was a prosperous as the purpose of improving the the needs and care of the weak and commercial town, but it had a material life is to ultimately improve the less fortunate’, a social order subterranean world of exploitation the spiritual life. based on justice, care and concern of the weak (such as the tribeless, for all its citizens. slaves, and hirelings), and a variety Islam seeks to create a society of fraudulent commercial and where justice is paramount and Islamic View of Economics monetary practices. On this point, there is a proper perspective and the Quran says: sensible restraint on unbridled Fazlur Rahman argues that one wealth and the quest for greater of the goals of the Quran was “Competition in accumulating profits. The economic sphere of the announcement of an ethical, wealth keeps you preoccupied until Islam has two principal purposes: egalitarian social order, and you visit your graves. Nay, you shall to combat poverty and provide for the severe denunciation of the find out soon.” a just and equitable distribution economic disequilibrium and social of wealth. This sphere attempts inequalities prevalent in the then (Al-Takathur, 102:1-3) to achieve this through a variety Meccan society. Ibn Rushd points Sa’idu Sulaiman, in ‘Islamization of of voluntary and mandatory out that the underlying rationale of Knowledge: Background, Models distributive mechanisms. all transactions regulated by Islam is the establishment and maintenance and the Way Forward’, states that the “whole universe was created For example, zakat acts as a of human virtues on a social and powerful tool, which circulates human level; the virtue in this case for the purpose of man to exploit and transfers money from the is that of justice. The Quran makes and live in it to fulfil the purpose hands of the rich to the hands it explicit that as in all endeavours, of his creation”. Clearly the Quran of the poor through charity. The balance and moderation (al- is certainly not against earning wealth, but rather it sets a high abolition of riba prevents unfair wasatiyyah) is the key imperative in lending schemes, which punish economic consumption: premium on wealth, which it terms the poor and the disadvantaged. ‘the bounty of God’. It counts In the economic sphere of Islam, “O you who have believed, do not peace and prosperity among the there is an inherent requirement prohibit the good things which highest blessings of God: but, the to provide each citizen with a Allah has made lawful to you and abuse of wealth prevents man minimum standard of living. The do not transgress. Indeed, Allah from pursuing higher values and Prophet (SAW) said, “Any ruler does not like transgressors.” renders it ‘a pittance of this world’ who is responsible for the affairs and a ‘delusion of this world’. The of Muslims but does not strive (Al-Mai’dah, 05:87) pre-Islamic Meccans single-minded sincerely for their well-being will not pursuit of wealth is said to be “the In Fazlur Rahman’s view, the enter Paradise with them” (Sahih height of their knowledge” (An- Quran criticises two closely Muslim). Yet, at the same time, Najm, 53:30), since they knew only related aspects of that pre- Islam achieves balance: it maintains the “exterior of life, being heedless Islamic society. economic freedom by securing of its higher ends” (Ar-Rum, 30:07). the individual’s right to private 1. The polytheism, which was In the absence of concern for the property. characteristic of pre-Islam welfare of the poor, even prayers Arabia, and This article is part of a series to be became hypocritical: published in TMR, describing the 2. The gross socioeconomic “Did you see the one who gives key principles of the Islam on the disparities of that time. the lie to the Faith? It is he who economic sphere. Given the Islamic

the muslim reader volume 32 • issue 01/2014 33 opinion maltreats orphans and works little for the feeding of the poor. Woe betide, then, those who pray, yet are neglectful of their prayers— those who pray for show and even deny the use of their utensils [to the poor].”

(Al-Ma‘un, 107:01-07)

This lack of consideration for the economically needy is the ultimate expression of pettiness and narrowness of mind—the basic weakness of man. Two important measures taken to remedy this situation were the banning of usury and the imposition of the zakat tax.

The ground for the banning of usury was made in the Quran:

“The wealth you invest in usury so that it should grow at the expense of other people’s wealth, does not grow in the sight of God, but whatever wealth you spend on welfare [zakat] - supporting sincerely the cause of God - it is multiplied several-fold.”

(Ar-Rum, 30:39) of justice and the avoidance of of providing adequate means of oppression”: these are the kinds livelihood for all its citizens. With regard to distributive justice, of Sunnah that demand equity the Quran laid down the principle in financial matters and justice Points of Significance that “wealth should not circulate amongst people. only among the rich” (Al-Hashr, The following are some examples 59:7). Although these words Muhammad Asad argues that an of the Islamic view in relation to were spoken in the context of the is a welfare state, economics. They are, namely, distribution of booty among the where the affairs of the community Inheritance, Wills, Social poor Meccan immigrants to Medina are arranged in such a way that Insurance, Games of Chance and to the exclusion of more well-to-do every person is able to enjoy the Interest on Money Lending (or Medinese, who consequently raised minimum material wealth-being Usury). There are many more complaints, they point to a central without which there can be no devices and techniques in Islam, economic guidance of the Quran. human dignity, no real freedom and these only represent but a Thus, after the Quran denounced and, in the last recourse, no spiritual mere handful. the Meccans for hoarding wealth progress. This means that the and exploiting the poor classes, in outcomes of an Islamic view in Inheritance - The obligatory Medina the zakat tax was imposed. relation to economics is to ensure distribution of the assets of a that there is no soul-grinding deceased person among his close The prohibition of usury, risk poverty side by side with affluence, relatives. In Islam, legal heirs do and speculation are among the and that all resources of the state not require any testamentary Sunnah, which “relate to the pursuit must be harnessed to the task disposition, and inherit the property

the muslim reader 34 volume 32 • issue 01/2014 opinion

of the deceased in the proportions Insurance signifies essentially the in excess of the borrowed amount. determined by law. Arguably repartition of the burden of an another outcome of the Islamic individual on as many as possible, The basis of the prohibition of Law of Inheritance is as a means of in order to lighten the burden of interest is also the one-sided capital dispersion throughout the each. Instead of the capitalistic or unilateral risk. For when one community, creating comparative companies of insurance, Islam borrows a certain sum for earning equality of opportunity. preferred organising insurance on an increase, it is possible that the basis of mutuality and co- circumstances are not favourable Wills - This is the right of operation, aided by a gradation of enough for sufficient earning to be testamentary bequests to operate the units culminating in the central able to pay the promised interest; only within the limits of a third of government. thus, the lender is not participating the property, in favour of persons in the risks of the exploitation. other than creditors and heirs. The Games of Chance - In prohibiting aim of this rule seems to be two- these, it is recognised that most of Conclusion fold: Firstly, to permit an individual the social evils emanate from the to adjust things, in extraordinary unscrupulous distribution of the The central features of Islamic view cases, when the normal rule national wealth, some individuals of economics as part of social life causes hardship; and a third of the becoming too rich and the others can be summarised as the following: property is sufficient for fulfilling all too poor and as a result they fall “behavioural norms” derived from such moral duties. victim to exploitation by the rich. the Quran and Sunnah, zakat tax as In games of chance and lotteries, the basis of Islamic fiscal policy, and For Converts to Islam, this allows there is great temptation for quick prohibition of interest. It is because them to be able to care for their and easy gains, and often an easy of its deep-rooted basis in Islam, family members outside the gain is bad for society. and that the implications for an specified category of heirs in Islam. Islamic life are based on justice and Interest on Money-Lending - equality, such a system is a viable Another motive of the law of will Probably there is no religion in the model to decrease wealth disparity, is to prevent the accumulation of world which has not prohibited and reduce poverty. It is only apt wealth in the hands of a few, a thing usury. The distinctive trait of Islam that the final words of this paper which would happen if one should is that it has not only forbidden this should be afforded to the Quran give all his property by will to a kind of gain, but also remedied the which states: single person excluding totally one’s causes leading to the existence of near relatives. Islam desires the this evil institution in human society. “Whoever should desire the circulation of wealth among as large immediate - We hasten for him a number of people as possible, Islam has made a clear distinction from it what We will to whom We taking into account the interests of between commercial gains and intend. Then We have made for the family. interest on money-lending. The him Hell, which he will [enter to] Quran states: “God permitted burn, censured and banished. But Social Insurance - Only risks trading and forbid interest… (I) whoever desires the Hereafter and involving heavy charges from f you do not give up (interest), exerts the effort due to it while he is objects of insurance, and these then be warned of war against a believer - it is those whose effort is differ according to the times and God and His messenger; and if you ever appreciated [by Allah]. To each social conditions. The Prophet repent, then you shall have your [category] We extend - to these organised social insurance on the principal, (without interest); neither and to those - from the gift of your basis of mutuality: the members of you wrong nor be wronged’ (Al- Lord. And never has the gift of your a tribe could count on the central Baqarah, 02:275 & 277). In short, Lord been restricted. Look how We treasury of their tribe, to which usury is a form of hording and have favoured [in provision] some of everybody contributed according accumulation of wealth, manifested them over others. But the Hereafter to his means; and if the treasury of as ‘financial extortion’, where the is greater in degrees [of difference] the tribe proved inadequate, other borrower will have to pay far in and greater in distinction.” related or neighbouring tribes were excess of the loan amount and under obligation to render aid. accumulated interest, which is often (Al-Isra, 17:18-21) TMR

the muslim reader volume 32 • issue 01/2014 35 lifestyle Helpful Travel Info from HalalTrip.com A comprehensive online travel guide for Muslims to plan their travel destinations.

review & interview by SITI KHAIRUNNISA ZAINAL

lanning for your next Halal restaurants and Somehow, it would make more family vacation but not within the vicinity. Apart from that, sense to categorise the cities too sure if your preferred viewers can also expect useful alphabetically, according to their destination is appropriate information regarding the history, countries first, before listing down enough to meet your faith culture and tourist attractions of the individual city. Apart from that, Prequirements? Why not browse various destinations in Asia and Crescentrating Pte Ltd has done a through the new HalalTrip website? the Middle East. Since the website commendable job in collating useful Crescentrating Pte Ltd, the world’s is still in its early stages, viewers information for the modern Muslim leading authority on Halal Travel can expect more features and traveller. recently released HalalTrip as an information regarding European online platform suited for Muslims tourist destinations. In retrospect, HalalTrip.com to travel around the globe without deserves a decent applause for its having to fuss about where to eat Subsequently, HalalTrip.com clean, minimal and user-friendly and where to pray. The website’s has also made use of social features. Crescentrating Pte Ltd’s user-friendly layout is not only media platforms such as Twitter, attempt to break into the online aesthetically pleasing; it is highly Facebook and Google+, to reach Halal-travel guide industry is informative as well. larger audiences. This makes it conceivably estimable and I would extremely convenient for Muslims definitely encourage Muslims to HalalTrip.com comprises of different to be updated on the latest travel look through it before deciding features such as the Flights, Hotels information, package details and on future travel destinations. So and Package icon to make browsing website features. While most of the what are you waiting for? Visit through the website a breeze. A website boosts affordances, the the website or follow HalalTrip on click on either icon will lead the only constraint is the classification Facebook,Twitter, Google+ and viewer to information regarding of city guides in the City Guide Pinterest if you haven’t already existing destinations and hotels Search. done so. which offer Halal-friendly facilities,

the muslim reader 36 volume 32 • issue 01/2014 lifestyle

marketing the platform to a wider Interview with HalalTrip.com creator, audience, determining which markets to focus on, developing Dany Bolduc a roadmap and feature set that our users will appreciate, and so What would viewers expect from enabled us to determine which forth… but I also think we have the new website? destinations were most relevant some distinct advantages given HalalTrip.com is the first full- for Muslim travellers; our content our heritage in understanding featured travel booking websites for team then worked on writing the the Muslim travel market and Muslims. Our aim is to enable and destination guides. We’re going to our credibility with the Muslim empower Muslim travellers to make continue to expand on the number community and travel industry. better, more informed decisions of guides we publish as travel to regarding their travel plans and lesser-known places is becoming Why do you think it took so long choice of accommodation based more and more popular. for someone to create a website on their faith and unique personal like HalalTrip? requirements. We do this by Most of the travel information There are two primary reasons. prominently featuring hotels with found on the website is based on 1) Most western companies don’t Muslim friendly facilities with nearby cities in Asia and the Middle East. I understand Islamic faith and the Halal restaurants and mosques. understand the website is still in its applicability of Halal to a Muslim’s In the next few months, we’ll be infantile stage but do you intend to lifestyle beyond food; and 2) There adding more features including user include travel information on cities has been a lack of innovation with reviews, more listings of Muslim from other continents? respect to Islamic companies friendly destination, attractions, and Our initial focus has been on branding and moving business tour packages. Asia and the Middle East but our models online to the same degree vision has always been to make as western companies. (how many What inspired the creation of HalalTrip a global platform similar to online Islamic brands do you HalalTrip.com? TripAdvisor. We’re already starting know?) This has resulted in fewer Muslim travel is the largest to publish more information on online platforms to discover Halal underserved market in the travel European destinations as a prelude products and services for the industry today. That’s quite a to the launch of tour packages with Muslim consumer. statement when you consider Kuoni in the first quarter of 2014. Muslims account for almost 25% Muslims all over the world have of the world’s population and What are some of your priorities been travelling even before the spent US$130 billion on travel when you created HalalTrip.com? creation of HalalTrip. Do you expenditures in 2012 (excluding Features and content that are think the website will significantly religious travel such as Hajj). We relevant to Muslim travellers and benefit Muslim travellers? If yes, saw this immense opportunity a simple user experience to book how? to provide a platform that would your travel were definite priorities. We’re trying to solve problems enable Muslims to travel with Price is critical to everyone, not just that many Muslim travellers still peace-of-mind benefiting the Muslims, so we decided to partner face today. Where can I find Halal travellers, travel service providers with booking.com for our hotels food in a foreign city? Where and the community as a whole. (which we curate based on our can I pray? Are adequate water rating system) and implemented facilities nearby? Where can I travel Was it difficult to gather specific meta-search to find the cheapest and not be concerned about my information regarding numerous flights available. safety? Where can I stay with my cities? How did you do it? family and not be concerned with We published the world’s first As a pioneer of the Muslim travel Haram activities? We hope that our Global Muslim Lifestyle Travel guide website industry, what are platform will solve these problems, study in 2012, which highlighted the the challenges you faced? enabling a better travel experience top outbound and inbound travel We face the same challenges as that benefits both travellers and the markets for Muslim travellers. The any online business - creating communities in which they travel. information gleaned in this report value for our customers, effectively TMR

the muslim reader volume 32 • issue 01/2014 37 the muslim reader 38 volume 32 • issue 01/2014 house of arqam

The Youth of Darul Arqam (YODA) organised a two-day programme called ‘Get Out - Discover’, between 13 and 14 December 2013.

Participants learnt that a key part of learning involves the sharing of knowledge - essentially, learning is not just about receiving but also about giving.

The programme also encouraged participants to think out of the box and explore new ways of what knowledge and the pursuit of it means in Islam.

PHOTOGRAPHS BY MUHD IRFAN MASLAN

Ust Noor Derus (below) was invited to speak about seeking knowledge.

the muslim reader volume 32 • issue 01/2014 39 leap of faith Confessions of a Second Generation Muslim text by SIM KHADIJAH MOHAMMED

ales are often told of religious classes for English- But when it came to my religious the amazing journeys of speaking children. I received my studies – the subjects that truly Converts to Islam. Books primary school education in a mattered – I flunked. I began and books are filled with secular school and took Mandarin as to loathe attending religious stories and accounts of my second language. On weekends, classes, because I simply would Ttheir individual quests for Truth, I would attend Islamic religious not understand what was going and their eventual submission to classes at the neighbourhood on or how to complete my tasks. the will of Allah (SWT). But few kindergarten facilities. These It was excruciatingly difficult for accounts have been told from the classes were conducted in Malay me to adjust from being one of perspective of their offspring, the by learned religious teachers and the brightest students in class on “second generation Muslim” so covered a wide range of topics weekdays to being a complete fool to speak. These are the children such as seerah (knowledge of the on the weekends. of Converts who were fortunate ), (Islamic enough to have been born into jurisprudence), (the doctrine I devised a plan to deliberately Islam. Yet, many do not understand of Oneness of God), akhlaq (virtue, “misplace” my religious school just how fortunate they are to morality and manners in Islamic uniform minutes before my class have been spared the process of theology) and Quranic recitation. was due to start each week, and having to search for guidance. As In theory, these classes were all- managed to escape a number of such, many of them end up taking encompassing and would take classes on that basis. Thinking their own individual journeys of care of all my religious educational back, it must have been quite a exploration with the faith. This needs. There was only one hilarious sight had anyone seen me is one such tale of exploration, problem though – I didn’t speak or frantically messing up my closet told through my eyes as a second understand a word of Malay. and tucking my tudung away at generation Muslim. the farthest corner, under the pile Loathed Religious Classes of clothes. I recall that I would My journey with Islam got off to a And so it was that year after year then announce to my mother (in rocky start. I was born in the early I excelled at my secular education a rehearsed, resigned tone) that 80s when Islamic organisations in primary school, even topping I could not find my uniform and had yet to begin catering Islamic the cohort in Higher Mandarin. therefore, much to my “dismay”,

the muslim reader 40 volume 32 • issue 01/2014 leap of faith

“Our Lord! Let not our hearts deviate (from the Truth) after You have guided us, and grant us mercy from You. Truly, You are the Bestower.”

(Al-Imran, 03:08)

would not be able to attend Desire to find out More perspective of Muslims and non- religious class that week. My mother As a young adult, I found myself Muslims alike. I studied numerous would then try to help me find unwittingly thrust back to my biographies of Prophet Muhammad my missing tuding or baju kurong spiritual roots when I began to (SAW) and read English translations (whichever piece I had decided to interact with non-Muslims. I recall of the Quran. I documented each “misplace” for that week) amidst that on the morning of 9/11, I and every reference to Mary the pile of clothes in my closet, but attended school at my junior and Jesus (AS) in the Quran and to no avail. college like it was any other day, but prepared arguments on how Islam everything had changed. Being one was the Truth and why the concept I also adopted a “strategy” for of only a handful of Muslims in the of the holy trinity was unsustainable answering questions during my school, our classmates looked to us in monotheism. After three long year-end religious studies exams: for answers. I found myself having years of battling it out, we were still I would literally copy chunks of to defend my religion, but with so no closer to a consensus and we Jawi (Arabic alphabets for writing little knowledge, I was ill-equipped decided to part ways. It was at that Malay language) text from the to respond. All I could say was that point in my life that the following comprehension passage into my Islam did not condone these acts verse began to resonate with me: answer section, hoping and praying of violence, but I could not quote that they would make some sense verses or literature or engage in any And had Allah willed, He to the marker. Sometimes this real discourse with my classmates. could have made you (all) strategy would work (like the time However, I began to feel a desire to one nation, but He sends I managed to score the highest in find out more about Islam, if only astray whom He wills and class for fiqh) [jurisprudence]; other so that I would not be caught by guides whom He wills… times, it would fail miserably (like surprise should questions be asked (Al-Nahl, 16:93) the time I was made to repeat a of me in future. year of religious studies). And so I Thankfully, it was the journey and limped on in my religious journey, Religion also proved to be quite not the destination that mattered. somehow managing to scrape a thorny issue in my personal life. Without realising it, I had begun through and pass the final year. As I had few Muslim friends, the to forge a bond with Islam. In Given my bad experience with men I interacted with were mostly seeking the evidence I needed to religious studies, however, I kept non-Muslims. In university, I met a defend my faith time and again, I my distance from religious books Catholic man whom I developed had found something even more for a while after that. Don’t get me feelings for, and we would have valuable - affirmation that Islam wrong; I prayed and fasted and met heated debates over our individual was the right and only way of life the basic requirements of the faith. I faiths. Speaking to him became like for me. This bond would serve me just had very little interest in finding going to war. To prepare for battle, well in my later years when my faith out more or forming a personal I began to do copious research, would once again be tested by life’s bond with Islam. reading up on Islam from the challenges.

the muslim reader volume 32 • issue 01/2014 41 leap of faith

you will have the ultimate weapon to tide you through - faith. I used to think that being a second generation Muslim meant that I was somehow “deprived” of that journey of affirmation with Islam. But now, looking back on my own journey, it’s clear to me that my journey was no less significant and my faith no less strong than the Convert who went out in search of the Truth.

Islam is My Companion There is something to be said about having been born a Muslim and then realising just how privileged you are to have been born into the faith; to recognise the sacrifices your parents made to accord you with that privilege; to affirm for yourself In my late twenties, I found myself Knowing that He is Near the Truth of Islam and to forge your turning once again to Islam. This He had highlighted the subtle shift own bond with the religion. There time, however, I was brought back from Allah (SWT) speaking to the is something to be said of the many to my roots not for the purposes of Prophet (SAW) to Him speaking ways in which Islam has impacted arming myself with knowledge in directly to the believer who was my life, from being a shield in times order to retort, but for the purposes calling upon Him. He explained of uncertainty, to being a sword in of seeking solace after my painful that had Allah (SWT) willed, the times of fear and distress. Islam was divorce. I turned to prayer and verse could have read “tell them the companion I was born with, and supplication in times of distress, (O Muhammad, SAW) that I am that Insha’Allah I will die with. and found all the answers I needed near”. Instead, this deliberate in the verses of the Quran. I listened choice of words – “I am near” – he So regardless of whatever journey to khutbahs (sermons) on Quranic reasoned, signified the closeness you have taken, be it as a Convert or interpretation whenever I felt my and immediacy of Allah’s response a second, third or fourth generation mind wandering towards despair. It to our prayers and invocations. Muslim, it is important that we all was my way of keeping a level head The knowledge that Allah (SWT) make a concerted effort to get to and reminding myself of just how was within reach whenever I know our faith, to engage with our miniscule my problems were, when needed Him filled me with such faith, and to forge a bond with our viewed in the larger context of the indescribable warmth that I could faith. It is important that we find vast universe. I recall breaking down not hold back the tears. I knew out for ourselves the teachings of upon hearing the ustadh speak on in that moment, surer than ever Islam, in whatever language it is that the following verse: before, that I had indeed grasped we speak. For parents of second the “most trustworthy handhold” generation Muslims, I would urge “And when My servants ask (Al-Baqarah, 02:256), and I said you to equip your children (as my you (O Muhammad, SAW) a silent prayer that Allah (SWT) parents tried to do) with knowledge concerning Me – indeed, I never allows me to loosen my grip. of Islam, for this is what will carry am near. I respond to the Since that day, I have turned back them through all of life’s challenges invocations of the supplicant to Islam whenever life poses me ahead. Finally, it is my sincere when he calls on Me. So let new challenges, and I have not been hope that every one of us will take them obey Me and believe in disappointed once. our own individual journeys of Me, so that they can be led exploration with Islam, for it is only aright.” It is a comforting thought, knowing then that we will know how truly (Al-Baqarah, 02:186) that no matter what life brings, blessed we are to be Muslim. TMR

the muslim reader 42 volume 32 • issue 01/2014 lifestyle

Nussimbaum’s life, however, was A Biography Rich with completely different. Being the son of a Jewish oil baron from Baku and a Jewish communist supporter, Nussimbaum struggled to paint a Historical Narratives romantic picture of his life for his companions to scrutinise. Although sensationally narrative, ‘The Orientalist: Nussimbaum’s adventure-filled life Solving the Mystery of a Strange and Dangerous existed in the form of near death Life’ by Tom Reiss (2005), is informative and escapes from dangerous bandits, perilous voyages across the seas, engaging. duping Bolshevik officials and even taking shelter in a cinema; all of which was done to escape Soviet review by SITI KHAIRUNNISA ZAINAL control. Those real life experiences contributed to the formation of Nussimbaum’s alter-egos: Essay he task of writing a Bey and Kurban Said, pen names biography can be fabricated to help embellish his considered as a tricky Muslim persona. undertaking. Surely, the laborious nature of Apart from the descriptive Tresearch and meticulous detail account of Nussimbaum’s risky cannot be a walk in the park. undertakings, Reiss has also With that in mind, Tom Reiss’ The included superfluous details about Orientalist: Solving the Mystery historical events not limited to the of a Strange and Dangerous Life history of Sunni-Shia relations, encapsulates the life of Russian history of the Caucasus and the Jewish-born Lev Nussimbaum, Weimar Republic, which had no the alleged author of Ali and Nino: direct influence on the subject A Love Story, a novel which most matter. Surely, the biography would Azerbaijanis consider to be a have been more enjoyable if Reiss national treasure. Thereupon, Reiss had gone straight to the point. The has painstakingly made use of a sensationalised narrative structure variety of sources, ranging from adopted by Reiss also made the official documents, newspaper providing excessive details about claims of the biography rather articles, oral accounts as well as historical events which were not questionable. One thing is for sure, secondary historical materials to directly linked to Nussimbaum. historians should really look into the validate his assertions. validity of the historical assertions if According to Reiss, Jewish-born they intend to cite the biography as The biography revolves around Nussimbaum had always been a credible source. Reiss’ experience retracing the enthralled by Islamic romanticism, whereabouts of Nussimbaum. so much so that it ignited the On the whole, the biography is This brought Reiss to numerous passion for a conversion to Islam. well-written and easy to read. If places around the globe. Although Nussimbaum spent countless hours you are into descriptive historical the entire biography looks to of his life fabricating tales about his narratives, chances are, you would be informative and engaging, heritage and ancestry. Reiss informs enjoy the rich detailed accounts of Reiss would have had a better us that Nussimbaum convinced Nussimbaum’s life but if history isn’t grasp of his reader’s attention if many of his aristocratic Muslim exactly your cup of , you would he focused his biography solely bloodline, that he was an oriental probably find Reiss’ book long and on Nussimbaum, as opposed to Azeri Muslim prince. The reality of dreary. TMR

the muslim reader 44 volume 32 • issue 01/2014 leap of faith

Author and wife at Muzdalifah

ecently another Convert and I were attending a nikah, the Muslim marriage ceremony. We sat around the table with Hajj Sights Rother friends eating the delicious Malay food and chatting, and the conversation soon got around to the topic of hajj (pilgrimage).

The other Convert and I were blessed with the opportunity through given by Allah (SWT) to depart from Auckland with our wives for the hajj in 2013. Our friends were yet to perform theirs and they felt that our informal chat about a Convert’s Eyes it was informative in a way that a structured lecture would not be. A personal account of pilgrimage by a Convert They asked me to put my thoughts on paper, and this is the result. who carried out his fifth pillar of Islam in 2013. To begin, my wife and I had text & photographs by DAVID BLOCKSIDGE attended a series of lectures on

the muslim reader volume 32 • issue 01/2014 45 leap of faith hajj at an Auckland mosque. The lectures were excellent and I would encourage everyone in Auckland to attend them. The lectures gave a good outline of what to expect, especially on the rituals required of pilgrims to perform hajj successfully.

The following are some hints and tips on our preparations for hajj. Umbrellas opening at (1) Check with the organisers that Masjid al- the lectures are delivered in a Arafah Nabawi language you understand, or that a full translation is given repeats the Imam’s words simultaneously. Check, too, that Of course, the “Allahu akbar” and “Rabbana appropriate arrangements are lakal hamd” during prayers so made for the ladies to attend – people near the back can know my wife was on the other side main beauty for sure when to prostrate and of a curtain so she could not comes from within: the so on. see the speakers or the little demonstrations. joy of being able to (6) So many people from every corner of the planet means that (2) Do not expect to remember spend many hours in you can also expect to come everything you are told at this home with a bug of one kind or point. It is unnecessary. When quiet contemplation another. I had a hacking cough you are on hajj, you will receive that I called “Muzdalifah virus” almost daily briefings from the and reflection. because I was fine until I spent leaders of the group you are the obligatory night in that travelling with. On that subject, place. I prefer the description pick a reputable agent to go be accepted (hajj mabrur), of another returned haji, who with; ask around among your Insha’Allah. aptly named it “camel cough”. haji (person who already went My wife had conjunctivitis in for hajj) friends and discuss the (4) Hajj is an experience that one eye. As they say in the ads, service they received from the almost defies description. It is consult a doctor if symptoms group they went with. huge by any measure. Masjid persist. Al-Nabawi – the mosque of our On hajj itself, we carried with (3) Prophet (SAW) in Medina – can (7) We were warned beforehand us everywhere an excellent accommodate three-quarters that we could expect to see booklet called Hajj of Change: of a million worshippers under surprising or even shocking A Guide to Performing Hajj, cover. sights and this turned out to be Umrah and Ziyaarah. It detailed true (refer to points 8 till 10). everything we needed to know (5) Each year, in excess of 3 million to perform the rituals of hajj. pilgrims are visiting the same (8) At Masjid al-Haram, some See if you can get a copy. sites at about the same time, women insisted on taking Keeping yourself well-informed so you can expect massive wudhu (ablution) at the men’s about what you should be crowds everywhere you go. outdoor wudhu station just doing at each step provides The mosques in Medina and outside the mosque, unwilling confidence and peace of mind Makkah are so big that during to go downstairs to their own that your hajj will be performed prayers, an appointed person area. For the first time in my correctly and will therefore near the middle of the mosques life, I saw women other than

the muslim reader 46 volume 32 • issue 01/2014 leap of faith

The author with Mina by night Malay buddies

Kaa’bah in Makkah

the muslim reader volume 32 • issue 01/2014 47 Masjid al-Nabawi, Medina Inside Masjid al-Nabawi

my wife taking wudhu. It is (11) A word you will hear constantly (15) We were advised that when impossible to avoid when in the context of hajj is sabr – doing tawaf (circumbulating you are at the next tap to the patience. You need plenty of it the Kaa’bah in Makkah), we person. to cope with the crowds; half- should refrain from talking hour queues for toilets, wudhu as tawaf is an act of worship. (9) Women beggars entered and showers; travel hiccups; Despite this, we saw many our men-only tent at Mina constant delays and hold- people chatting, chanting in more than once, and beggars ups. Allow plenty of time for groups and even uploading generally are a problem. We everything. photos and taking video. It is were told, and I feel it is sound disrespectful, to say the least – advice, not to give to these (12) Most people are doing the best as indeed are all the cellphones “professional beggars” but to they can in the circumstances, ringing during prayers. On that give instead to the mosque but moving 3 million people topic, we found that we were cleaners, hotel staff and others around for a single purpose able to do without our phones who work for a pittance in must be a logistical nightmare; for the entire trip. This was a Medina and Makkah. Ten Saudi show some compassion for the great relief and saved us the riyal (about SG$3.39) buys officials, many of whom are expense of local SIM cards. their food for one day, for part-time and do another job Agreeing beforehand where example. the rest of the year. to meet after prayers was our successful tactic. (10) But the oddest moment I (13) That said, I must confess had was when we met an to losing my cool with the (16) On the ground floor, it can get Indonesian couple at a lift in a airline check-in clerk who yet very crowded so we did all but shopping mall next to Masjid again seated my wife and I the first of our tawafs on the al-Haram. The man spoke to far apart. Despite checking roof. Go at cooler times of the his wife, saying that I must in simultaneously as husband day, such as just before dawn. be a tourist. Maybe he forgot and wife, the airline managed Just keep an eye out for fast- that Makkah is a city only to seat us separately on every moving wheelchairs. Muslims can enter. Or maybe single leg of the journey. he couldn’t get over a Muslim (17) A friend I was with, Ashraf in jeans and t-shirt. It reminded (14) We negotiated each time Khan, had a great suggestion me of Imam Afroz Ali’s trick with fellow passengers to for protecting our wives from question: What is Muslim swap seats so we could be being jostled by other men dress? The answer, of course, together. This happens a during tawaf. We had our wives is that there is none. Muslim lot and is ironic considering walk immediately in front of us dress is anything that is loose- the emphasis on women and we put our arms out stiffly fitting and covers the awrah travelling on hajj with their on each side of our wives’ (body parts that ought to be (spouse and other shoulders so nobody could covered). unmarriageable kins). cross their path.

the muslim reader 48 volume 32 • issue 01/2014 leap of faith

thermal alone, gently circling high above the Kaa’bah.

Of course, the main beauty comes from within: the joy of being able to spend many hours in quiet contemplation and reflection.

After nearly every one of the five The author’s wife daily prayers in the mosque, you will hear a call to janaza (funeral) prayers. It is good to remain an extra few minutes to perform these In crowds generally, hold I had my own rule about (18) (21) (they are very short) because of your wife’s (or mother’s or photography: Do the necessary the blessings bestowed upon those daughter’s or sister’s) hand rites of hajj, then get the who pray for the dead. If you are so you do not get parted. It camera out if time permits very near the front row of Masjid can happen all too easily. If and the circumstances are Al-Nabawi, near the Imam, you may like us, you follow the school appropriate. Your primary be able to follow the funeral out (madhab) of Imam Shafi’i, then intention at all times is to to the adjacent famous cemetery, you will need to use perform hajj successfully. which is where some Companions rules of wudhu for hajj. This is and family members (RA) of the permissible during hajj and it Hajj is an incredible experience. Prophet (SAW) are buried. allows you to hold hands for Clichés such as “the trip of a this purpose without breaking lifetime” hardly begin to do it I made mistakes with our luggage. your wudhu. justice. Try to perform it while you One was taking two sets of are still reasonably fit because it is sheets. They are quite bulky and (19) Sadly, crowds attract physically, mentally and spiritually heavy and one would have sufficed. pickpockets – especially demanding. I also packed too many books to outside Masjid al-Haram in read; a Quran would have sufficed Makkah. Take all necessary I have the photographs to remind because we found an excellent precautions because they are me of our Prophet’s mosque, which bookshop at Medina and came experts at parting you from must be one of the most beautiful, home with such gems as your valuables. I alerted my tranquil places on Earth. Visiting The Sealed Nectar (a biography of our Prophet) friend to his unzipped pouch in his grave is not part of hajj but it and Heroes of Islam (about the time to prevent any theft from is considered mustahab (highly Companions and others in the early it, after which he let his wife desirable) by all four schools of days of Islam). carry it under her hijab. thought to do so.

I have not discussed the rites of (20) There are many beautiful sights It is worth being outside the ; I am not a scholar. You will and you may wish to take mosque at dawn and at dusk to hajj learn about this aspect of in photographs so you have a watch the enormous umbrellas hajj due course from the appropriate visual record of your hajj. The opening and closing. They surround sources. May that day come soon authorities have become more the entire mosque. relaxed about this in recent for you, Insha’Allah. TMR years but don’t push your luck Speaking of beautiful sights, if in places such as the grave of you are on the roof of Masjid al- our Prophet (SAW) in Masjid Haram during the day, look up. The author is a Convert who lived for many Al-Nabawi. I saw men trying to If you are lucky, high above the years in Singapore. He and his Malay wife, take photos through the grills scores of construction cranes you Mazlinah bte Haji Mohamad Noor, now live at the grave. It is bad manners; may see birds of prey soaring on in Auckland, New Zealand, where they are active members of the small but growing anyway, there is nothing to see. the thermals. I counted 12 on one Muslim community.

the muslim reader volume 32 • issue 01/2014 49 house of arqam

The Converts’ Development Division (CDD) organised a picnic for the Multi-Naitonal Clubs (MNCs).

The event was held on 24 November 2013, Sunday.

About 100 volunteers and staff, with their friends and families - including non-muslim ones - gathered together on that day.

Although blessed by heavy showers of rain for about an hour, the picnic was one of the most memorable events.

The colourful gathering was visually the most unique meeting at East Coast Park that day.

the muslim reader 50 volume 32 • issue 01/2014 house of arqam

The MNCs included those from the Indonesian, Mabuhay, Tamil, Myanmar, Mandarin clubs.

Besides games and activities for all, there were also special performances by the various MNCs.

Above: VP of CDD, Muhd Remy (left), with President of DA, Muhd Faiz @ Edwin Ignatious M.

PHOTOGRAPHS BY AISHAH HUSSEIN

Programmes of the day included barbecue, potluck lunch with contributions from the various MNCs, and fun-filled games where all the participants got to know more about the other volunteers of DA.

the muslim reader volume 32 • issue 01/2014 51 lifestyle Smartphone apps and the Modern- day Muslim Useful in helping us find our way around quickly and more efficiently, and for guidelines in a hectic modern life. review by ABDUL GHAFAR ABDUL KADIR

martphone creators it according to the Deen. The follow MUIS’s strict criteria and programmers have following are some of the Islamic and are subjected to regular successfully created apps, which are readily available for inspections. smartphone applications anyone, with a few simple taps on (apps) for almost every your screen. A key feature in this app is that it Saspect of our daily lives, so much allows you to locate the nearest to the extent that our lives now Halal eateries around you via revolve around these apps. SG Halal Eating Guide GPS satellite, as well as give you Publisher: Times Publishing Ltd directions to the destination. It also You can find an app for almost Platform: iOS has a search function that allows everything in our lives: maps that you to search for Halal eateries give us pinpoint directions to our SG Halal Eating Guide, created by by selecting options like the area, destinations, expense managers Times Publishing Ltd for Islamic the type of eatery or the type of to track our every income or Religious Council of Singapore , or simply by the name of expenditure; there are even apps (MUIS), is an app specifically the restaurant or café. which allow us to identify the title created for the Muslim’s dietary and artiste performing a song needs. Although there are many One feature the developers can which is being played on radio. similar ones in the app store work on is its list of Halal/ doubtful/ The has not lagged available to assist Muslims on Haram ingredients, which are behind; today we can see a huge their dietary doubts, this one was relatively short. As noted by them, increase in smartphone apps created for use in Singapore’s the list is not exhaustive. With a catered for the Muslim community. context. Endorsed by MUIS, the small country like Singapore, which Some are created specifically for restaurants and eateries indicated imports most of our , a more conveniences to our fast-paced in this app have been given the concise list of haram ingredients lives but yet allowing us to live Halal stamp of approval. They and additives would indeed be

the muslim reader 52 volume 32 • issue 01/2014 lifestyle

handy for us when selecting halal understand interpretations based locate mosques in the vicinity of food products. on school of thoughts that are not your current location. It shows you commonly practised in Singapore. the distance to the mosques and Halal Check For example, are listed as a directions to it via GPS satellite and Publisher: HalalMedia haram ingredient, most likely due to tracking systems. However, one Platform: Android the fact that they can live both on might find that the list is incomplete land and in the water. as there are many mosques, not Halal Check is a simple yet included yet in the list. As noted in comprehensive app that provides What I like about this app is that the the app, information is provided by details on most ingredients (e.g. list seems rather comprehensive. Foursquare, another social network , etc) and additives On the other hand, it could application based on user input, present in packaged food today. definitely improve on the making thus the information on mosques It operates similar to a search available the explanations regarding available on Muslim Pro only include engine, where you type out the the halal/ doubtful/ haram status of those visited and shared by others name or part of the name of the all the ingredients, as well as their on Foursquare. ingredient you are looking for. For references. Users will still be able to example, if you type ‘sodium,’ the use this app as a quick reference, Another useful feature is the digital results will show every ingredient or as a starting point, to a more in- compass that shows you the Kiblah. with the word ‘sodium’, such as depth study of the ingredients they One must note however that digital ‘sodium bicarbonate’ or ‘disodium are doubtful about. compasses have their shortcomings guanylate’. It will also highlight and may not be 100% accurate. It whether the ingredient is halal, Muslim Pro is best to compare it several times doubtful () or haram. Publisher: Bitsmedia Pte Ltd with a magnetic compass first, to Platforms: iOS and Android judge its accuracy. For some ingredients, the app will give a brief description of Similar to a Swiss Knife, this app Other interesting features include the ingredient and a detailed combines many important tools, information and dates of Islamic explanation stating why it is haram which are useful to Muslims in their holidays, an electronic Quran in or otherwise. Unfortunately, daily life. You no longer need to Arabic and in English, and a section this feature is not available for have a long list of apps crowding on the 99 Names of Allah (SWT) for all ingredients in the app. Some your phone screen to have access easy reference and recitation. ingredients would only be listed as to these essential tools. One might argue that there might halal or haram without any validation be better apps for each individual or explanation. It may also be One key feature of this app is its feature, but for those who looking confusing to some beginners who mosque finder. It allows you to for the convenience of a multi-

the muslim reader volume 32 • issue 01/2014 53 lifestyle

These sermons, often inspirational Quran Recition: This segment and informative, are relevant to allows you to keep track of the those living in Singapore and serve current surah (chapter) and ayah as reminders on our purpose in (verse) you are reading in the life. Videos on the sermon are also Quran. This app will assume that available. you are reading the Quran in sequence from the first surah, Al- The ‘Latest Fatwa’ feature allows Fatihah, till the last, An-Nas, and Muslims in Singapore keep track will automatically do a count on the of the Fatwas (ruling on a point number of verses you have read or issue given by a recognised daily. This app is also linked to a authority of a state or country) website (quran.com) that allows you given by our Mufti. This feature to resume from the verse you last offers the final decision on that read. There is also a function that issue, as well as the official and lets you track any extra chapters detailed argument accompanied you have read on a particular day. with its references on how the judgement is made. Users are able Fasting: This tracks the days of to get this latest information easily which you have fasted, as well and get a clearer picture on the as what types of fast you have Fatwas given by the Mufti as well as performed (e.g. Sunnah, Qada’ the Fatwa Committee. or Nazr). It will also automatically identify the days of that are QamarDeen compulsory for you to fast, i.e. featured app, like the Swiss Knife, Publisher: Batoul Apps Ramadhan. However, it does not Muslim Pro may be exactly right Platforms: iOS and Android block out days of which you are not for you. allowed to fast. QamarDeen, created by BatoulApps, Office of the Mufti allows you to track your religious : You can choose from 6 Publisher: Infusionz LLP activities. This app is a good types of Sadaqah: Money, Food, Platforms: iOS and Android example of how technology is able Smile, Effort, Clothes and Others. to help a Muslim improve his Iman Apart from allowing you to keep One app that is a must have, if you (Faith) as opposed to many others, track of the types of Sadaqah you want to stay tuned to Singapore’s which may distract us from Allah have done for the day, it does not Islamic current affairs, is the Office (SWT). By keeping track of one’s allow you specify the quantity or of the Mufti (OOM) app. This app religious activities, one can monitor quality of the Sadaqah that has has been created specifically for areas to improve on and areas where been done. Muslims in Singapore. Featuring we have lagged behind. The four a comprehensive directory for main activities on this app are prayer Finally, the app will tabulate a mosques in Singapore, this app helps (solah), Quran recitation, fasting, and graph to let you see the progress users to locate the nearest mosques charity (sadaqah). of your religious activities. You are in their area with GPS satellite and able to see if you are improving, tracking systems, and provide them Solah: This segment allows you or otherwise, in each individual directions to those mosques. to track the five daily obligatory segment, as well as in the overview prayers, indicating whether you of all four segments. Although one The two key features on this app, have done each prayer alone or might say that there are many more however, is the ‘Friday Prayer congregationally, and whether you activities in Islam considered as Sermon’ and ‘Latest Fatwa’ feature. accompanied it with the sunnah religious and are not available in The weekly sermon (khutbah) (encouraged) prayers. You can also the app, generally, this app helps to relayed to the congregation in choose to activate the option for remind you and help you improve mosques during Friday prayers are two extra sunnah solah (the Duha your self based on the four main shown, in text form, on this app. and Qiyyam prayers). (worship). TMR

the muslim reader 54 volume 32 • issue 01/2014 family Advice from

Honouring the works of the late Luqman author, Syed Ahmad Semait, TMR features the English translations of his books in this series, beginning the Wise with “Wasiat Luqman Al-Hakim Kepada Puteranya”.

originally in malay by SYED AHMAD SEMAIT to His Son translation by SHAFFIQ SELAMAT

Introduction to Surah Luqman I quote from an Arabic dictionary The story of Luqman Al-Hakim is ‘Al-Munjid’ that gives its meanings mentioned in the Quran (Chapter among other things as: philosophy, 31) after an introduction, which justice, knowledge, manners, honest states that the Quran is full of words discourse, resolving problems of wisdom, because the Narrator correctly and efficiently. In fact, is the Almighty and All-Knowing, its true meaning is more than that, that is Allah (SWT). The story then such as penitence, purity of the begins with an advice or guidance soul, and all the praiseworthy traits on how to take a lesson from the of a person’s spirituality, because wisdom. Allah (SWT) states this in the nature of ‘Hikmat’ comes from verse 12: Allah’s attribute, that is certainly perfect and has a more profound “And verily we gave Luqman meaning than anything imagined by wisdom, saying: Give thanks humans. unto Allah; and whoever gives On the other hand, a wise man, thanks, he gives thanks for (the according to Kamus Dewan’s good of) himself. And whoever definition is someone who is refuses -- Lo! Allah is Absolute, honourable, knowledgeable, clever Owner of Praise.” and careful, intelligent; which only The latest edition of this publication, gives a partial definition of the in Malay, is currently being sold at Al- The word ‘hikmat’ in this verse, term . However, the word Abdul Razak Mosque as part of its fund- ‘Hikmat’ which I translated with the word raising project. ‘Hikmat’ has more than its stated ‘wisdom’, may in fact carry wider meanings. Because wisdom is meanings. ‘Hikmat’, can also be derived from Allah’s knowledge, or articulated as ‘Hikmah’, specifically it is an attribute of Allah (SWT), of refers to the human character, which only a drop has been given which has very diverse definitions. by Him to humans, such that the

the muslim reader volume 32 • issue 01/2014 55 family

‘wise man’ behaves, or speaks, in gift, but Allah (SWT) had especially wealth, riches, properties and so such a manner that his words, or given the gift to Luqman only, and on, should be thankful to Allah his actions, or his thoughts, seem to He certainly is more knowledgeable (SWT). But, does it suffice by have been weighed carefully over on whom to bestow the gift. That expressing his gratitude with the scales of justice and penitence, is why Allah (SWT) had taught the words ‘Alhamdulillah’ for of which none is certainly more Luqman not to forget to be thankful the blessings he had received? upright and righteous than him. of the great blessing given to him. Is it enough by just paying his obligatory zakat (alms-giving) Thankfulness to God To be ‘thankful to Allah (SWT)’ as only? In terms of legal obligation, For that reason, Allah (SWT) has stated herein means not merely to indeed it is sufficient. What is commanded Luqman to be thankful be thankful like we normally do by obligatory has been fulfilled. to Him, with His words ‘Give thanks saying ‘Thank you’ or something to Nevertheless, expressing gratitude unto Allah!’ Indeed it is only proper that effect. But, the thankfulness for the blessings in the form of for Luqman to be thankful for in this context is to be spiritually bountiful providence and wealth this great gift from Allah (SWT), grateful, with an extremely deep given by Allah (SWT) entails because it was a chosen gift that and broad meaning that can only more than merely paying for the was specifically given to him and be carried out by special individuals obligatory tithe. people like him. It was not a general whom Allah (SWT) has given inner gift that was given to ordinary strength and motivation to perform. (For further information to what humans. Moreover, during Luqman’s is explained herein, I recommend time, there were surely many others For instance, someone whom readers to study the writings of that could have been given such a Allah (SWT) has given abundant Imam Ghazali, who had dedicated

the muslim reader 56 volume 32 • issue 01/2014 family a chapter specifically to discuss creatures He created. The one who Seeing that things are rapidly ‘Gratitude to Allah Ta‘ala’.) will benefit from being thankful changing in our age, and the is the grateful person himself, change is from good to bad, the Then Allah (SWT) continues: for the reward of being grateful age of materialism, whose trends ‘Whoever gives thanks, he gives will all return to the thankful one. are often detrimental in terms thanks for (the good of) himself’, Allah (SWT) is thus very loving of faith and morality, fathers are which means the benefit of being towards humans; He teaches them therefore always worried and afraid, thankful returns to himself or how to gain goodness from all that the influences of this age herself. Because the person who His blessings and bounties. And would corrupt their offspring. A is thankful for Allah’s blessings, supposed all inhabitants of the father’s authority over his children will have his blessings increased earth and sky are not thankful is almost non-existent. These by Allah (SWT), as mentioned in to Him, nothing will be missing influences have evidently affected another verse: from the Almighty, as He is not many families that hold on strongly to Islamic religious principles and precepts. Let alone within families that have vague notions of faith, or almost know nothing about the basic requirements of piety. It seems the damage of this age has haunted all Muslim families without any exception.

Children are a heavy responsibility on the shoulders of parents. This responsibility will not be removed, be it on earth or in the hereafter. When we neglect it on earth, the punishment will come immediately before our eyes. There are so many examples whereby many children caused their parents to dependent on His creations, it suffer all kinds of sickness, be “If you give thanks, I will is His creations that are very it physically or mentally. This is give you more, but if you are dependent on Him. only their punishment on earth; thankless, lo! My punishment is imagine their punishment in the dire.” Luqman’s Advice to His Son hereafter. (Ibrahim, 14:07) We have now come to the aim and objective of this writing, which is to The solution to all these pitfalls is And if you are thankless for the highlight and analyse the contents for parents to always take serious blessings Allah (SWT) has given, of Luqman’s advice and reminder to care of their children. To teach them the punishment will return to you. his son, as mentioned in the Quran. Islamic knowledge from young, None will lose, except yourself. In These advices were the gist of Allah’s an education that is approved by this world, His gifts for us will be teachings preserved in the Quran, as Allah (SWT) and His Prophets. In lessened, and in the hereafter, we a mirror for Muhammad’s followers implementing Islamic education, will receive a painful punishment for to act upon. Because the Quran was we sorely need guidance from the not being thankful to Allah (SWT). sent down as a guidance to lead a Quran and the hadith of Rasulullah happy life for Muslims. All the wisdom (SAW). Islam is replete with its In this introductory verse, Allah and lessons contained in it that are verdant and healthy principles (SWT) states that, ‘Allah is dedicated to us Muslims, including of education, an education that Absolute, Owner of Praise.’, in Luqman’s advice to his son, are protects humans to be safe in this fact, He is always being praised actually dedicated to all fathers, to be world and the hereafter. What is by His creations, by all kinds of delivered to their offspring. needed now is for us to select it,

the muslim reader volume 32 • issue 01/2014 57 family

adapt ourselves, and equip all our in fact Allah’s words conveyed other parts are worse than the family members with all its theories through Luqman’s speech, that was tongue and heart if both were and principles. delivered to his sons. naturally bad.

Among the theories and principles Although he was just a carpenter, Indeed the tongue and heart are of Islamic education are the Allah (SWT) had granted him the source or origins of all human teachings contained in Luqman’s wisdom and intelligence, until all secrets. Both play an important role advice to his son, which form the the words from his speeches were in affecting human manners and topic of discussion in this writing. profound and wise, and should be behaviour. When a human’s tongue It is a few of many. It is hoped that weighed in gold. and heart are good, their manners we will be able to practise them will be good. On the other hand, for our own benefits and safety As narrated, one day Luqman was when his tongue and heart are bad, as well as those of our children, asked by his master to slaughter his manners will also be bad. Insha’Allah. a sheep. His master then said: ‘Oh Luqman! Remove from this Refer to Rasulullah’s (SAW) Who is Luqman Al-Hakim? sheep two pieces of its best meat!’ following hadith: The salafis (earliest Muslims) had Luqman thus cut its tongue and no unanimous opinion on Luqman’s heart and gave them to his master. “The faith of a slave (of God) identity. Some said that Luqman will never be true, until his heart was a Prophet, and some said he On another occasion, his master is true. And his heart will never was a pious person. Ibnu Abbas came to him again and asked him to be true, until his tongue is true.” said that Luqman was an Ethiopian slaughter another sheep. His master slave. Others said that Luqman then said: ‘Oh Luqman! Remove It is clear to us, what Luqman is was short, with a sharp nose who from this sheep two pieces of its trying to imply regarding the role hailed from Nubah. Some said he worst meat!’ Luqman then once of the tongue and heart, which can came from Sudan, next to Egypt. again took the sheep’s tongue and both turn a human good or bad. And others had their own different heart and gave them to his master. By reflecting on just one incident, versions. Nonetheless they were as in the abovementioned, we can unanimous that he was a sage His master was amazed and already make a conclusion on the whose words were profound and puzzled, then he said: ‘Oh Luqman! profound meaning of Luqman’s wise. Previously when I asked for two words. As such, he was known as pieces of a sheep’s best meat, you Luqman Al-Hakim’, or Luqman the

Allah (SWT) had honoured him gave me its tongue and heart. This Wise. TMR highly for his noble character, and time around, I asked for two pieces named a surah in the Quran after of a sheep’s worst meat, and you This instalment is derived from the him. In Surah Luqman, Allah (SWT) gave me its tongue and heart too, introduction of the original book, Wasiat had preserved the words of wisdom how can it be? Please explain!’ Luqman Al-Hakim Kepada Puteranya. from Luqman’s advice for Muslims Insha’Allah, TMR will feature the continuation of this article in the next to ponder. Besides that, it can be Luqman replied: ‘Oh master! In edition. taken as a reflection for a happy fact, no other parts are better than life on this earth. These advices, the tongue and heart if both were TMR expresses its gratitude to Pustaka Nasional Pte Ltd, for the permission to despite spoken by Luqman, were excellent. On the other hand, no translate and publish this article.

the muslim reader 58 volume 32 • issue 01/2014 house of arqam

The event was held on 8 December 2013, Sunday.

The Youth of Darul Arqam (YODA) held a recreational gathering at the bowling alley.

They held a friendly competition amongst several teams.

PHOTOGRAPHS BY MUHD IRFAN MASLAN

About 40 participants attended the event.

the muslim reader volume 32 • issue 01/2014 59 leap of faith

Best Of Both Worlds A young Convert shares her colourful journey into parenthood.

text by CANDY MAK @ NADIA MAK

y husband hugged Later, when we found we were pregnancy, confinement and child- me and said, “God is expecting a daughter, I may have rearing abound; will these lead to Great”. tasted horror. Now, I have to be a World War III? Until when? good role model for her as a Muslim We had just found out woman, daughter, daughter-in-law, After a period of decidedly Mthat we were to become parents. wife, mother, friend... how am I to hormone-induced panic, I resolved My mind raced ahead. How and do this when I have so many failings to keep an open heart and mind, when to break the news? How of my own? Moreover, God is ever keep seeking knowledge, and Allah to manage pregnancy? How to watchful: (SWT) knows best. bring baby safely into this world? Excitement and gratitude soon “And know you that your Support from everyone turned into anxiety. There were so possessions and your progeny Alhamdulillah, my husband’s friends, many bad things that could happen are but a trial; and that it is whom I have come to respect and to the child when crossing the road, Allah with Whom lies your love as my own, stepped in quickly when going to school… How was I highest reward.” to guide me through pregnancy to ever stop worrying? (Al-Anfal, 08:28) and beyond. They offered tips, shared Facebook support groups (It was at this point that I first Then came ambivalence. Cultural for Muslim mothers, and brought tasted motherhood. Humbling, differences between the Chinese us second-hand goodies and fascinating, motherhood.) and Malay-Muslims regarding lots of positive energy whenever

the muslim reader 60 volume 32 • issue 01/2014 leap of faith

What helped:

1. Conscious planning, sharing, knowledge- seeking and teamwork with the husband

2. A strong network of friends and family whom you trust and can go to in times of uncertainty

3. Having faith that Allah (SWT) will provide

they came to visit. Family, friends, (Prophetic tradition) to bury practised among Chinese, I did bosses, and even complete detached body parts. While some not face any resistance from my strangers helped to look out for me. people advocate that the placenta family (or from Baby Dalia!) We had In time, I found myself overwhelmed be consumed, I thankfully knew elected to keep this a simple affair by the love and support shown. none of them. for close family members at Al- I had grown to become more Mawaddah Mosque. confident and secure. Confinement turned out to be nothing of the sort. What the Aqiqah, the sacrifice of an animal on On challenging days, the husband Chinese and Malay-Muslims had the occasion of a child’s birth, was was indispensable when it came to come to regard as strict practices also performed on her behalf. sifting through conflicting advice were not taken too seriously in our and allaying fears. Listening to the household. I did not have to take I had come to learn about the Quran in the evenings also soothed baths in secret or be grounded above practices through a mix of my nerves and was a particularly for 44 days. What I did have was Google research, advice handed good way to bond with Baby. I plenty of rest and nutritious home- down from family and friends, and pictured her listening intently. made food prepared with love and validation against known sources attention. The husband, mother and of Islamic knowledge. MUIS’ Against this backdrop, it became mother-in-law rotated shifts during FAQs were particularly helpful for possible to brave out what’s to baby’s first month so that I could understanding these matters in the come. focus on recovery, as well as quietly local context. Generally, there was a enjoy the postnatal massages and lot of on-the-job training, and I am Fast Forward to Week 40 numerous bottles of chicken essence. glad to have the leadership of my Masha’Allah, Baby has arrived. My husband. husband whispered Adhan (call Tahnik & Cukur Rambut to prayer) into her right ear and The combined tahnik and cukur Surprisingly, what yielded more Iqamat (second call to prayer) into rambut ritual was a mini learning complexity was the choice her left. We then greeted Baby journey on its own. Tahnik involves to breastfeed. World Health with the name we had chosen for placing a tiny, chewed portion of Organisation (WHO) recommends her – Nur Dalia Xin Hui – the first a sweet date into the newborn’s exclusive breastfeeding for at least embodiment of her mixed heritage. mouth, followed by recitation of the 6 months of age, and continued doa (supplication). Cukur rambut breastfeeding with complementary If you are wondering what we did involves shaving the whole head of foods for up to two years, which with the placenta, my mother-in- the newborn, after which the hair abides by the Quran: law and husband promptly had is weighed and its value in gold it cleaned and buried. According donated to charity. Fortunately, “Mothers are to suckle their to the Islamic Religious Council as shaving of the newborn’s head children for two whole years …” of Singapore (MUIS), it is sunnah – girl or boy – was also commonly (Al-Baqarah, 02:233)

the muslim reader volume 32 • issue 01/2014 61 sharing the same love and devotion to a new life brought into this worlds

It was easy to decide on exclusive breastfeeding. However, we had USEFUL RESOURCES to manoeuvre around pressures to introduce water, cereal and Books: Mobile Apps: , which came from well- · “The Muslim Parent’s Guide · Kids-Dua meaning relatives from both To The Early Years (0-5 sides. Executing the decision Years)” by Umm Safiyyah · Daily Hadith required persistence and tact, and bint Najmaddin Alhamdulillah, the pressures have · Islamic Stories reduced, especially since Baby Dalia · “Motherhood In Islam” by Seek out: is seen to be growing well. Again, Aliah Schleifer the husband was a strong pillar of · Local support groups for breastfeeding Muslim support. · “Parenting Skills: Based On The Qur’an And Sunnah” by mothers Thus far, World War III had not Dr Ekram and Dr Mohamed Workshops on tarbiyah erupted. In fact, I ended up with Rida Beshir · (upbringing of children) many interesting things to share · “Answers To Frequently with my non-Muslim friends and Mothers or mothers-to-be in Asked Questions On · relatives. Yes, I get the occasional similar situations raised eyebrow, and I remind Parenting” (Parts I to III) by myself that people share because Dr Ekram and Dr Mohamed they care. When they over-share, Rida Beshir however, a polite word of thanks and quick change of topic does the trick to keep everyone happy. Insha’Allah, she would grow up to be differences in cultural practices, and Mixed Heritage a discerning and mature individual to see both sets of grandparents Being the first grandchild for who can navigate her mixed and relatives come together, both families and our firstborn, heritage on her own, and place God sharing the same love and devotion we planned great things for Baby above all. to a new life brought into this world. Dalia. We would communicate with her in English while she picks up Looking back, it becomes apparent I realise now that Baby Dalia Malay, Chinese and Cantonese from that I was driven by fear of the represents the best of two worlds, the respective grandparents. She unknown (and hormonal changes, and that we have the best of both would receive religious knowledge of course). I saw only worst-case worlds. while being exposed to the richness scenarios. What I did not expect of Singapore’s social fabric. to find was more similarities than God is indeed great. TMR

the muslim reader 62 volume 32 • issue 01/2014 lifestyle Un-Sinfully Good Halal dessert outlets that would put a ‘sugar-induced’ smile on your face.

review & photographs by SITI ZUBEIDAH KADIR

e’ve all had it. Walking sprouting up to meet the increasing past by that bakery, Sweet Tooth Addiction demand from the community, and suddenly having Where: 216 Joo Chiat Road, and our taste buds are more than a spur-of-the-moment #01-08 pleased. desire to indulge in a Telephone: 6444 0424 Wsweet treat. Or more innocently, one These are two stores or cafés we’re moment we’re hard at work and the Email: help@ more than delighted to review and next moment, the brain drifts off to sweetoothaddiction.com share. (Excuse the euphoric tone, it a memory of that luscious chocolate might just be the sugar talking). cake melting between the lips. Your Instagram: next instinct would be to run to SweetToothAddiction. The name says it all. Tucked in a the nearby café to grab a slice of small shop, deep in Joo Chiat Road, chocolate cake, but should you? Closed on Mondays. is a place where all high-strung Opening hours : 3pm – 1am sugar/chocolate addicts can run to Unlike packaged desserts sold in Best For: for a quick fix. They certainly won’t supermarkets with labels you can Those days where you be disappointed. Not only are the easily scrutinize and verify, ready- need a quick fix for takeaway, pastel blue and striped walls enough made products sold in cafés or even late into the night. to soothe frazzled, sugar-deprived bakeries have an invisible ingredient nerves, the enticing rows and rows list that may include non-halal of cakes in dessert jars will make components. Unless they are you ecstatic beyond your wildest certified by the Islamic Religious Until recently, Muslim-owned dreams. Council of Singapore (MUIS), it’s bakeries were mostly home-based, hard to ever be sure that the item is which meant that you either need With flavours like salted caramel, 100% halal. There lies the dilemma, to order that luscious dessert in double chocolate praline, mango to eat or not to eat. As a good advance or try to control that tango, chocolate banana, passion Muslim, the feeling of being unsure craving until your order arrives. fruit, red velvet, and many more, (was was) makes the item not halal Thankfully, this is not anymore. Halal there’s one to suit every taste bud. If for consumption. or 100% Muslim-owned bakeries are you like your desserts creamy with

the muslim reader volume 32 • issue 01/2014 63 lifestyle

accompanying chocolate, salted caramel or nutella dips, are addictive to say the least.

The café itself is quite small with limited seating space, so planning for takeaway is the best option. Not all items are available daily, so be sure to call and check before you come to ensure what you want is on the menu for the day.

It’s a hot hot day, you want a treat but desire something not too indulgent. Bubble Tea’s off the menu because you’ve had one too many cups, so what’s next? Enter Frozilicious, the 100% halal certified frozen yoghurt shop. A colourful little store, near Tampines East CC, Frozilicous serves both ice-cream and frozen yoghurt so it all depends on whether you want to be naughty or nice that day.

Prices are fair and similar to others in the market. Also similar to the concept of some other froyo chains, Frozilicious charges by weight a strong dose of flavour and thick so the more toppings you heap fruit chunks, this is the spot to go on, the more that cup of frozen to. And if one jar is too much for yoghurt will cost. With the range of you to finish in one seating, the jar Frozilicious toppings available, from fresh fruits covers and refrigerates nicely. Their to crunchy granola to chocolate sliced cakes are just as delicious and Where: chunks, those with a heavy hand will perfect for the next party you hold. 201E Tampines St 23, find it easy to go overboard. The Sweet Tooth Addiction also accepts #01-120 flavours served are quite typical and orders for customised decorated would cater to the unadventurous. cakes. Scroll through their Facebook Website: The taste stayed true to the spirit of page to view the beautiful cakes www.Frozilicious.com frozen yoghurt, not too sweet and made for all occasions. just tart enough. We tried, and love, Instagram: Frozilicious the caramel and the regular. Other The café also serves sandwiches, flavours served include bubble gum paninis, and wraps made with fresh Best For: Those days you and blueberry. ingredients like grilled chicken and really, really, really want Situated in the heart of Tampines roast beef and fresh . something sweet but feel Street 23, this small froyo outlet For those stuck in that spot where too guilty to indulge in caters mostly to the heartlanders you are not too sure if you want a something too sinful. who want a small cup of sour savoury or a sweet snack, grab a goodness on the go. It is such a bag of churros. Originally a Spanish shame because if located at a more treat, this cinnamon-sugar convenient location, we’d definitely covered fried sticks, with go back often for more. TMR

the muslim reader 64 volume 32 • issue 01/2014