Letter From the Editor

Donald Trump’s decision shocked to the world community

US PRESIDENT Donald Trump triggered an international capital, meaning that he has managed to avoid falling into furor on December 6, when he recognized Al-Quds – or the Israeli narrative of a “unified Jerusalem.” Jerusalem – as the capital of Israel, and relocating the US While Israel categorically refuses to share Jerusalem as embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. capital city with the State of Palestine, Trump has left “the The decision overturned decades of US policy and ig- door open to having the west and east of the city as the nored international consensus that the city’s status should capitals of Israel and Palestine, respectively.” be decided only in a future peace agreement. This is why Saudi Foreign Minister Adil Al-Jubeir said Therefore it came as a shock to the world community, in an interview that Trump peace plan is ‘not yet finalized’, which immediately rebuffed the decision. Saudi Arabia led and the administration is still consulting with all parties, the chorus of criticism. including Saudi Arabia and said that “the president is seri- Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman effec- ous.” Trump will present a clear plan in early 2018. tively said: “Palestinians have the right to Israeli-annexed Even Israel says it is waiting for Washington to finish east Jerusalem as their capital.” drawing up a peace plan. The Muslim World League (MWL) and the Organiza- Israel Katz, an Israeli minister said: “The Americans are tion of the Islamic Cooperation (OIC) followed suit, both preparing a peace deal. They did not tell us the details. They rejecting the decision as a negation of any peaceful solution did not speak about a ‘Deal of the Century’. Rather, they to the conflict. asked what we can accept, and they asked the Palestinians MWL Secretary-General Dr. Muhammad bin Abdulka- the same thing. And they will offer – as they put it – some- rim Al-Issa prudently feared “the decision will face great thing creative.” Islamic anger and which opens serious repercussions.” The White House has said Trump remains committed to The OIC on the other hand threatened to go to the UN the goal of peace and notes he has not taken a position on Security Council to seek UN’s full membership. Several the boundaries of Israeli sovereignty in Jerusalem or resolu- European and Asian countries too deemed the decision as tion of its contested borders. uncalled for, not to speak of worldwide protests and rallies. Trump has set an ambitious goal of brokering Mideast The Palestinians also took to the streets of Gaza and the peace and tasked his son-in-law and senior adviser Jared West Bank with some pelting stones in anger and anguish. Kushner to help lay the groundwork for direct negotiations. In response, Israel rained bullets killing several youths and Kushner and other top Trump aides have traveled to the re- wounding scores. gion to meet with Palestinians, Israelis and officials from Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas questioned Arab nations. Washington’s role as arbiter of Middle East peace negotia- The status of Jerusalem is central to any peace negotia- tions and sought the United Nations to take over the mantle tions between Palestine and Israel. The Palestinians have of final arbiter. made it clear that east Jerusalem will be the capital of their The US president opened a Pandora’s box. He deserved future state. brickbats for touching upon a very delicate issue that – ev- Over the longer term, Trump has risked the odds of vio- erybody agreed – required talks and a lasting solution in- lence because it deepens Palestinian despair. The president stead of any half-baked measures that may aggravate the will have to shed the mask of ambiguity, sooner the bet- situation. ter. The furor was created because the announcement was Yet, in the pursuit of a “new approach,” Mr. Trump widely perceived as siding with Israel. Being the leader charted a totally unconventional path, awarding a long of a responsible country, Trump must not do anything that cherished wish of Israel and its voraciously land-hungry caused the hopes of any real change in the status to fade, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. leading to another round of bloody of violence. This heated up the Muslim sentiments, raising the de- In all this, we miss a sensible response and a patient un- gree of resentment against the United States, leaving no derstanding of the things unfolding before us. Violence has space for any sensible thinking or patience to await the final not paid an inch of benefit for Palestinians. It is high time decision by the US leader on the whole issue. we acted on matters of Palestine, or any matter of Muslim We must not miss the point that Trump did not talk of an interest, in a prudent manner that requires patience and a undivided Jerusalem when he recognized the city as Israel’s rational thinking and a practical approach. l Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 l 1 C O N T E N T S No.4 l

4 The Muslim World League Journal MWL vows to wipe out extremist ideology

Secretary-General Rabi Al-Thani1439/December 2017

H.E. Dr. Muhammad bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa l

Supervisor General Media Affairs Dept. Adel bin Zamil Al-Harbi

Chief Editor Dr. Osman Abu Zeid 26 IIROSA makes progress in Editor strengthening its achievements Mohammad Zakir Hossain Trump’s Al-Quds Decision: A Miscalculated Move Layout and Graphic Designer M. Nasir Jawed...... 24 Khaled Awad Al-Muazzin The Hijri Calendar - A Defining Episode In Islam Dr. Mrs. Fatima Taneem Ruknuddeen ...... 30 The Muslim World League Journal An Islamic Perspective on Media and Society P.O. Box: 537 Dr. Osman Abuzaid...... 42 Makkah, Saudi Arabia The Eternal Life of Jannah (Heaven) The Modern Science proves Tel: 00966 (012) 5600919 its eternity Vol.46 E-mail: [email protected] l Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 l www.themwl.org2 C O N T E N T S Annual Subscription Rates Saudi Arabia Individual subscribers: SR. 36 Organizations: SR. 100

Other Countries Individual subscribers: $20 Organizations: $26

Cheques payable to Muslim Islamic Scholars urges at KUC 2017 34 World League may be sent to Bring mass media into practice Circulation & Subscription Deptt. Muslim World League, P.O. Box: 537 Makkah, Saudi Arabia

All articles and correspondence may please be addressed to Chief Editor, The Muslim World League Journal. While we reserve the right to edit, summarise or reject any con- tribution, no article, report or letter will be returned to the sender.

Views expressed in The Muslim Palestine Expo: Biggest Pal- 48 World League Journal do not neces- estine Event in Europe sarily represent those of the Muslim World League. Articles published may, however, be reproduced with Ahmad Wahhaj Al-Siddqui...... 54 acknowledgement. 21st Century Western Scholarship on the Prophet’s Seerah: Some Positive Glimpses Dr Tauseef Ahmad Parray...... 58 Why Nigerian Muslims Should Not Celebrate The Grego- rian New Year ( January 1st ) Dr. Busari K.K...... 62

l Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 l 3 MWL vows to wipe out extremist ideology

Muhammad Zakir Hossain

Within the framework of its global message for the dissemination of peace and harmony among peoples, and as part of its activities at international point ac- tivity performed in the second European Union Capital, Strasbourg, the Mus- lim World League (MWL) concluded its Conference on “Islam is the Mes- sage of Peace” which was held in cooperation with the Association of Alsace Muslims, in the presence of H. E. Dr. Muhammad bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa, Secretary-General of the Muslim World League and the effective participation of elite intellectuals, researchers and academics, in addition to the attendance of diversified religious, social and governmental leading figures.

l l 4 Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 Dr. Al-Issa during his speech Dr. Rabih Amara, Vice President of the Associa- in the conference tion of Alsace Muslims, delivering his speech

During the conference, the participants affirmed eradicate unemployment, poverty, crime as well as their support towards the initiatives of dialogue financial corruption that scatter potentials, drain re- and cultural coexistence around the world, exploi- sources, dismantle social fabric and prevent the es- tation of previous experiences in enhancing world tablishment of society whose members enjoy secu- peace, dissemination of a culture of mercy and co- rity and decent living. operation for mankind benefit. They also reiterated The participants have confirmed that confronta- the strengthening of cooperation among religious tion of terrorism will not be decisive except by de- institutions around the world for promoting com- feating it intellectually. This requires the academic munalities and consolidating noble values, as well institutions to set adequate measures for precise as cooperating for the confrontation of the atheist clarification of ambiguous concepts and correct the phenomenon, the associated rising of hatred waves, erroneous ones, explain the truth, refute mislead- notable increase of violence, family disintegration ing suspicions, and protect society from the traps and the alarmingly prevalent of moral decadence. of the currents extremism. All this can be done by They underlined that encouraging the institu- enlightening individuals on the objectives, tenets, tions vision that adopt moderation can be consid- provisions and controlling principles of Islam as ered one of the most important means of drying up well as elevate the level of awareness among Mus- the sources of extremism and terrorism. They con- lims towards the challenges and the newly emerg- sider this matter capable of revealing the misguid- ing issues, which the Muslim Nation is facing to- ance of the followers of terrorism and elucidating its day. Additionally, the conference discussed that the present and future threat on both the Muslim Nation participants should take advantage of the positive and world peace and security. They also indicated historical legacy in addressing the ethnic and reli- that it is essential to cooperate in the dissolution of gious conflicts as well as overcome the situations international disputes and ending the ongoing con- of the clash of civilization and cultural discordance flicts, which can be done via adopting an impartial and should establish the understanding, integration international mechanism that have the authority to and dialogue between different components. oblige the aggression parties to cease their hostili- At his inaugural speech H. E. Dr. Al-Issa stressed ties, force them to return the usurped rights to their that Islam is the religion of peace, (warning at the due owners and establish justice, stop interference same time against the incorrect readings practiced in the affairs of others as well as implement the pro- by extremist groups for the dissemination of their grams of economic and social development that is deviant and misguided ideas among the people). He anticipated to achieve community security, deepen also pointed out the approach of the MWL to en- the sense of man for his humanity, dignity and be- lighten all on the sublime values of Islam, especially longing to his homeland. Such programs will also on supporting the efforts of coexistence, tolerance

l Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 l 5 and comprehension of Allah’s law in diversity and disagree- ment, which is considered the cornerstone for achieving peace and harmony. His Excellency indicated that the religious sentiments, which is stripped or uncovered of aware- ness and wisdom and fails to take into account the consequenc- es that come at the top of the Shari’ah objectives in extracting rules, is seen as the dilemma that misled many people, including the slogan they raise in the name of Islam is a false one. His Excellency said, “When Scholars, elit intellectuals, researchers, academics and atten- we talk about the vocabulary of dance of deversified religious, social and government leading peace, we talk about a matter ne- figures attended the conferenece cessitated by life on our planet; we talk about something that ev- peace, security, stability and har- find that the Kingdom of Saudi eryone, without exception, needs mony. He indicated that when the Arabia has made sincere and tan- and we talk about something that religious sentiment of an individ- gible efforts for countering these can never be enjoyed by anyone ual is lacking religious awareness electronic terrorist accounts, without the other. In other terms, he can be provoked and the result through both the World Center this is in fact the promising and is extremism. Therefore, the good for Combating Extremist Ideolo- enlightened position for peace. example set by individuals in their gy “ETIDAL” and the Center for Besides, it sharply conflicts with dealings and the spreading of the Intellectual Warfare, an affiliate extremist theories, whether they Islamic awareness have due im- of the Saudi Ministry of Defense. are guided by ideologies of reli- portance because they are very Likewise, the Muslim World gious, intellectual or political ex- essential in this connection”. League has exerted similar efforts tremism.” He stressed that extremism in this area for intercepting these He added, “When we recall doesn’t fear military confronta- messages by both clarifying the the fundamental values of Islam, tion as much as it fears intellec- truth of Islam and the dismantling we find that they are based on the tual one, especially after it has of the theories of extremism. teachings that require and harmo- developed an intellectual entity. After that H.E. Dr. Rabih Am- nize with peace. Therefore, Allah Although this entity is fragile and ara, Vice President of the Associa- Almighty said about His Prophet weak, we remark that extremism tion of Alsace Muslims, delivered (peace and blessing be upon him); is not, in fact, ruled by a system; a speech in which he expressed “and we have sent you not but as as it has neither established a po- his thanks to the Secretary Gen- mercy to humankind” (Surat Al- litical entity nor a military force. eral of the Muslim World League Anbiya’a). Mercy is indeed the It was established by a virtual for organizing this conference in basis and pillar of peace. In a fa- entity that employs electronic in- cooperation with the Association mous Hadith, the Prophet (peace ternet cyberspace, which enters of Alsace Muslims and pointed be upon him) said- “I was sent to every country in the world with- out that this conference comes complete good ethics”. Among out an entry visa. It was able to after the series of terrorist events the most important aspect of these make room for the promotion of experienced in Europe and espe- ethics is the establishment of ideas without a license. Thus, we cially in France that resulted in

l l 6 Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 anti-Islamic tendency and emer- gence of certain anti-Islamic slo- gans, such as that of Islamopho- bia, which has been effectively exploited, escalated and general- ized by some of those who are counted as an integral part of the media body of certain European countries. “We should concentrate and ponder via wise vision over such matters for addressing and pro- jecting the real image of Islam in dealing and cooperating with the other in peaceful manner,” he added. After that H. E. Vice President Dr. Al-Issa in his visit to the Grand Mosque of the Representative Council of Muslim Communities in Stras- event in addressing humanitarian problems related to the immi- burg gave a speech in which he issues and global interaction with grants coming from other coun- thanked the organizers of the Con- all, both at popular and govern- tries to the European continent, as ference for selecting this signifi- mental levels, H.E. Dr. Muham- well as finding appropriate solu- cant theme for the event (Message mad bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa met tions to them according to reso- of Peace) and indicating that all the President of the European lutions adopted by international religions reject the appearance of Youth Forum, Mr. Louis Marti- community. terrorist groups which are falsely nez. an affiliate to the European At the end of the meeting, the attributed to Islam. Furthermore, Parliament in Strasburg, the Director of the Parliament ac- he commended the efforts of the second capital of the European companied H.E. Dr. Al-Issa in a MWL in addressing all the issues Union. tour around the Headquarters of that are faced by Muslim commu- At the beginning of the meet- the European Parliament in Stras- nities with due wisdom and care- ing, the Director of the European bourg, including the Main Hall of fully studied awareness programs, Parliament presented a detailed the Parliament and other sections. while hoping that this conference description of the tasks of the After that H.E. Dr. Al-Issa was will also issue recommendations Parliament, mechanism of its invited to watch a documentary that encourage love, interaction work and the responsibilities dis- about the Parliament explaining and acquaintance among indi- charged by it. its achievements since its estab- viduals. During the meeting, they dis- lishment. After all the speeches, the con- cussed aspects of cooperation in ference started its sessions that which the MWL could contribute Important points by Dr. Al-Issa covered four topics -“Islam and together with the European Par- • Dr. Al-Issa: We must give a peace”, “common denominators liament to all issues, especially message to all citizens on inte- for life and positive coexistence”, those (issues) of communities gration, tolerance and respect for “experiences and challenges” and and the consolidation of the con- others. “towards societal peace.” cept of citizenship and integration • Some sectarian groups were in order that peace can prevail deeply saddened by historical Dr. Al-Issa meets the President among the people with their dif- events for which we are not re- of the European Youth Forum ferent religions and beliefs. sponsible. However, on the sidelines of the Both the sides discussed the • Thought is not only spread

l Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 l 7 Dr. Al-Issa visits the Grand Mosque in Paris

steps outlined by it. Dr. Daleel said, “This is a very good and digni- fied visit. We always call upon the MWL to double its continued support to the Islamic community here in France, especially in these critical days, where the said community needs awareness through con- ducting meetings, conferences or seminars”. He added that: “We want to clarify to non-Mus- lims that Islam is a religion of love and tolerance, and it is a religion of dialogue and coexistence with the other; and it is a universal religion. Praise be to Allah that the MWL, through its tours, activities, programs and great efforts, has always given due concern to the Muslim communities with the help of Dr. Al-Issa visits Grand Mosque in Paris its offices or its bodies or through the Islamic cen- ters it supervises. This is a great message for which by force with the religion of God or confrontation, the MWL should profoundly be thanked, because but with the help of good wisdom and advice. it has a special place in the hearts of Muslims who H.E. Dr. Muhammad bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa feel tranquility when they hear the name of “Muslim visited the Grand Mosque in Paris and met the Di- World League” for its Headquarters (Secretariat rector of the Islamic Institute, Dr. Daleel Abu Bakr, General) is located in the holiest place on the earth and a number of Imams. that is Makkah, which embraces the Qibla of Mus- lims”. Dr. Al-Issa visits the Grand Mosque in Paris Dr. Al-Issa then delivered a speech to the Islamic Dr. Daleel welcomed H. E. Dr. Al-Issa and his ac- community in France, in which he said, “The MWL companying delegation, while indicating to His Ex- looks at itself as part of you and that it works with cellency about the Grand Mosque in Paris, with its you to achieve its sole objective, which is focused ancient history and how it has always been since its on serving Islam and Muslims and raising the aware- inception. Likewise, he also discussed the agree- ness of the Muslim community as well as advising ment with the MWL and on following the same them to follow Allah’s guidance.”

l l 8 Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 Dr. Al-Issa reviews the vision of the MWL in a high-level, elite dialogue

He said that the League is mainly concerned thermore, the League supports in the context of con- with serving Islam and Muslims such as giving a cern and keenness for positive integration, which is positive mental image of them to the world. “In- a message to all, because without such positive in- deed, Islam spreads only because of its good reputa- tegration, the matter will reversely be rebound and tion, ideology is met with similar ideology and the that Islam does not need such a reverse course that religion of Allah is spread with wisdom and good does not serve its good reputation.” exhortation and not spread by force or intellectual competition. Furthermore, the wars were regretfully Dr. Al-Issa visits UNESCO waged among the Muslim themselves before they Furthermore, Dr. Al-Issa visited UNESCO Head- were fought with any other circle,” he added. quarters in Paris, and met the Acting Director Gen- His Excellency pointed out that some sectar- eral, Mr. Eric Falt, who warmly welcomed him and ian groups unfortunately adopt certain historical lauded the pioneering and significant role played events, for which they are not responsible, and so by the MWL in enhancing cultural interaction and are we not as such acceptance is against reason. The civilizational dialogue, underling that it is important Muslim must look to what is before him and is held to cement rapprochement among people as well as accountable to his Almighty Creator for what he disseminate the culture of citizenship and integra- was entrusted with regarding himself and his com- tion among the members of communities within the munity. His responsibility centers on the message framework of promoting love and fighting hatred, that was entrusted to him, especially if it is a mes- violence and extremism. sage of an institution. This in fact represents the vi- The SG of the MWL indicated that UNESCO sion and approach of the MWL. should have programs that strengthen cultural in- He said: “We must give a message to all in so- teraction and its rapprochement among people as cial responsibility, integration, tolerance, respect for the organization’s major concern, by the virtue of others, and should tolerate those who disagree with its function as an international respectable body, fo- us in opinion. We are all in a single boat that must be cuses on the world’s heritage and culture. He also protected and we do a single work that is intended expressed that the MWL is ready to cooperate with to achieve a single objective, serve a single message UNESCO in the implementation of any initiative and adopt one vision. However, despite all odds, we that genuinely serves the interest of the people, par- do appreciate that how one bravely shouldered this ticularly with regard to effective as well as mean- responsibility and stand to all local challenges. Fur- ingful cultural and civilization interaction.

l Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 l 9 On his part, Dr. Al-Issa thanked Michel Dubost for his praise and comprehension on the objectives of the MWL, which undertakes to create a bridge of cultural and civilizational interaction with all. He said: “During my meet- ing with both His Holiness Pope Francis and Head of the Pontifical Council for Interfaith Dialogue, in the Vatican, we agreed to form a Permanent Committee between the MWL and the Pontifical Council for Interfaith Dialogue, in the framework of cultural in- teraction, which both parties seek to achieve.” The President of the Union of the Protestant Church praised Dr. Al-Issa’s efforts in introducing the new vision of the MWL Dr. Al-Issa visits IFRI The SG of the MWL and the ac- ops in France, where he and his companying delegation visited Dr. Al-Issa meets the Presi- accompanying delegation were the French Institute for Interna- dent of the Union of Bishops in welcomed and highly praised for tional Relations (IFRI) in Paris, France this historic meeting, which was where His Excellency was re- Likewise, His Excellency Dr. Al- anticipated to have positive re- ceived by Ms. Degoute Corinne, Issa, met Michel Marie Jacques sults in the fields of rapproche- Vice President for Development Dubost, C.I.M, Bishop Emeri- ment, interaction and dialogue of the Institute, and a number of tus of Evry-Corbeil-Essoonnes& among the followers of religions researchers and thinkers, who are President of the Union of Bish- and cultures all over the world. members of the Institute. The Vice President of the Insti- tute welcomed them and wished that the meeting with His Excel- lency would lead to the adoption of a number of relevant ideas and joint programs that would achieve peace and coexistence with all. On this occasion, a dialogue seminar was held by His Excel- lency the Secretary-General of the League and a number of se- nior advisors and thinkers of the Institute, who are members of this body, in the presence of a group of French media personalities, as well as certain former ministers of the French government. Dr. The Secretary General at the meeting with the President of Al-Issa indicated that the MWL the Union of the Protestant Church strives hard to transmit noble hu-

l l 10 Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 Dr. Al-Issa visits the IFRI manitarian messages that achieve space of knowledge and construc- the notion of inferiority complex. love and peace, and clarify the tive civilizational dialogue. Therefore, it is incumbent duty truth of the Islamic religion. He Dr. Al-Issa stressed the impor- upon us to seek a peaceful coexis- confirmed that interception and tance of listening to each other, to tence, facing the great challenges defeat of the messages of ex- find suitable formulas for peace- that threaten humanity today, as tremism, published by terrorists ful coexistence among the com- the language of the numbers de- through the Internet, and through ponents of our human societies. picts the magnitude of the suffer- social networking sites, are con- For, the difference between us is ing that our world is experiencing sidered among the many tasks of true; it is a law of life ordained by today at all levels,” he added. the MWL. the Almighty, the Creator. But this The SG of the MWL expressed The SG of the MWL pointed doesn’t imply that we live the life that the MWL is ready to coop- out that man today needs more of antagonism, hatred and fight- erate with the French Institute time than before to listen to oth- ing as Allah Almighty has created for International Relations in all ers and communicate with him us in different shapes and colors fields that serve all mankind. He in the light of the rapid develop- in order to know each other, not hoped that these meetings and ments. Moreover, man should be to fight or despise one another. discussions, which aim at finding known through his perceptions, “The difference in opinion- no viable solutions to the problems not through stereotyped images, matter how deep it is - does not and challenges facing the world which is replete with false in- prevent us from seeing the issues today, will continue. formation generated by histori- agreed upon by the wise people of In conclusion, His Excellen- cal conflicts and prejudices that nations, including the risk of the cy answered a number of ques- cannot be relied upon in the open clash of civilization created by tions and inquiries raised by the

l Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 l 11 Dr. Al-Issa visits Notre Dame Cathedral audience. ity of running it. and meeting so as to create some His Eminence added that he sort of active cultural interaction Dr. Al-Issa meets the Vice Presi- was one of the participants at the among the followers of religions dent of the Conference of Euro- Week of Harmony among the fol- and cultures in many parts of the pean churches lowers of religions and cultures world. Furthermore, the League In a related context, His Excel- in the Austrian capital, Vienna, is regularly invited to attend a lency Dr. Al-Issa met in Paris, pointing out that the real coexis- number of activities in its capac- His Eminence, Metropolitan Em- tence between Islam and Christi- ity as the representative of the manuel (Adamakis) of France, the anity has extended for more than Muslim people and that it shows Vice President of the Conference thirty years, and stressed his en- due keenness to attend, particu- of European Churches. couragement for the bilateral dia- larly if the activities are far from His Eminence, Metropolitan logues initiative. the impact of political slogans Emmanuel welcomed and praised The Secretary-General com- and known stereotypes. the active role of the MWL in menting on it said that the MWL creating bridges of constructive represents an umbrella organi- Dr. Al-Issa visits the Cathedral interaction in order to achieve zation for the Muslim people of Notre Dame in Paris world peace and love between because its seat is in Holy Mak- Additionally, Dr. Al-Issa visited Muslims and Christians. He also kah. Furthermore, the MWL is the Cathedral of Notre Dame in expressed his admiration of the distinguished by its strong and the French capital, Paris, and in- qualitative move in the activities good relations with the leaders of spected it while being accompa- of the League after His Excellen- religions in the world. It always nied by the President of the Ca- cy’s accession to the responsibil- organizes conferences, seminars thedral, Patrick Schweift, who

l l 12 Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 explained to His Excellency in detail the historical heritage the Cathedral occupies throughout the world, expressing his appre- ciation for this kind visit which gives positive impression that Is- lam is a religion of cultural and civilizational interaction. His Excellency Dr. Al-Issa chaired a qualitative seminar on the message of the MWL and its new vision in regard to global cultural and civilizational interac- tion. Prominent former ministers, ambassadors, intellectuals, aca- demics as well as distinguished media personnel, such as Jean- Pierre Chevenement, former Dr. Al-Issa visits Notre Dame Cathedral Minister of Interior and former Minister of Defense, and Michel statistics of the MWL, the Mus- Based on the above two matters, Dekelo, President of the Inter- lim population all over the world the MWL launches its activities in national Diplomatic Academy in is now approximately one billion the world, raising high the banner Paris, have effectively participat- and eight hundred million; and of Islam, peace and tolerance,” he ed in this elite discussion. the League feels the great impor- said. After explaining the said tance towards them, especially the He added: “But there are two message of the League, Dr. Al- aspects pertaining to their aware- particular challenges, which are Issa, compared the MWL, which ness and conveying to the Muslim not strong enough when they are is an international popular or- people the true message of Islam properly and genuinely evalu- ganization for Muslim people, with its moderate concepts.” ated. The first is extremism that is with the Organization of Islamic Furthermore, he said, “We at falsely and unfairly attributed to Cooperation (OIC), which is a the MWL are keen to present a Islam. The second is the counter- political organization that repre- global discourse that is recorded extremism, Islamophobia. When sents Islamic governments. He to both the international status of I say Islamophobia, I mean a sin- said: “The MWL is now almost the MWL and the universality of gle thing – i.e the hatred of Islam 60 years old, and its importance the Islamic message that is to dis- as a religion, technically termed lies in both the type of the work seminate peace, love as well as Islamophobia. This is interpreted it does as well as in the fact that respect others’ opinion. This is, in the case in which an individual it is the only Islamic organization in fact, the moderate Islamic view says, “I cannot coexist with Islam whose seat is in the holiest sanc- that we must present to all and as a religion, irrespective of its tuary of Muslims, Makkah Al- keep on preserving it.” followers, whether they moderate Mukarramah. Furthermore, the “The provisions of the Articles or immoderate” You remark here voice of the MWL represents that of the Constitution of the MWL that Islam is hated as a religion in of the Muslim people. Thus, the are conspicuous to all, as they itself; and that Muslims are hated significance of the League in the allow those in charge to adopt a as followers of Islam, regardless international reading of events is working methodology that clari- of any consideration as to wheth- due to the importance of this seat fies the truth of the moderate and er they adopt extremism, militan- in the hearts of Muslim people.” peace-loving Islam, and help con- cy or moderation tendencies. The He added: “According to the front extremist and terrorist ideas. problem with this theory is that it

l Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 l 13 The Secretary General visits the Parliament has rendered invaluable services of extremism. Furthermore, ISIS nomenon of Islamophobia.” to extremism and terrorism be- has gained supporters through the He indicated that the MWL has cause it helped to increase the size escalation and spread of the phe- faced challenges and difficulties, but it will continue to defeat ha- tred and extremism. We have the ambition and determination to ex- ert more efforts, conduct relevant studies as well as researches and take appropriate initiatives that are focused on the activity of ter- rorist extremism. It is not enough for anyone to suffice himself by saying that I am against extrem- ism or terrorism. This is a gen- eral clause and that it must have a strong and influential impact.

Dr. Al-Issa visits the National Assembly of France Dr. Al-Issa, also met the Chairman of the French-Gulf Friendship The European Parliament Committee at the National As-

l l 14 Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 sembly of France, Nathalie Goli, Chairman of the French-Saudi Friendship Group, John Batiste Moro, and the Chairman of the Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defense and Armed Forcesh at the National Assembly of France, Christian Cambon, who all wel- comed the Secretary General and the delegation, hoping that this new phase led by His Excellency is anticipated to enhance coopera- tion in all fields, especially in ar- eas relating to religious sciences and Islamic culture. They all applauded the activi- ties of the MWL, which aim at cre- ating comprehension, tolerance Dr. Al-Issa meets with the President of the European and acceptance among different Parliament religions; and this is considered part of the world peace. This was religious awareness, which re- visit, we have met all religious evident to them from the various spects ethical and human values. spectrums of the Muslim com- meetings they held with the rep- The MWL is also aware of its munities in France, and we have resentatives of different religions impact and that its presence and been well received and most wel- and indicated the spirit of open- voice have their due influence on comed even by those who some- ness and tolerance adopted by the the Muslim communities in non- times disagree with us in regard MWL. Recent meetings and visits Muslim countries and the Muslim to our certain moderate messages, have confirmed the extent of this world. but they listen to us with great re- openness. In conclusion, he said, “In this spect. We at the League also en-

Dr. Al-Issa meets the SG of the French Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs Dr. Al-Issa thanked the members of the National Assembly who are heading various committees and expressed appreciation for the ef- forts they make at their respective Committees in strengthening the relations and friendships between France, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Gulf countries. He also commended their great interest in the efforts of the MWL, signi- fying that the work of the MWL is based on the subjects that we talked about. The MWL is con- cerned with spreading moderate Dr. Al-Issa meets with the SG of the French Foreign Ministry

l Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 l 15 Dr. Al-Issa talks about the efforts of the MWL in the European Parliament sure that this awareness should authorities in France and other bonds among Muslims in the be based on the respect for the European countries”. Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the constitution, laws and the cul- In extending and strengthen- world, in addition to the change ture of the country in which they ing the bridges of cultural and of the distorted image of Islam in live. In fact, we are keen to create civilizational interaction with the Europe and the world while rais- programs and initiatives for en- Republic of France, His Excel- ing the awareness of the Muslim hancing the national integration lency Dr. Al-Issa met the Secre- community on the proper spread of the Muslim communities in all tary General of the French Minis- of the culture of integration and non-Muslim countries, especially try of Europe and Foreign Affairs, national affiliation in all countries European ones (countries), via Maurice Gourdault –Montagne at in general and in France in par- the transmission of the message the King’s Hall at the Headquar- ticular. on tolerance and the significance ters of the Ministry in Paris, in the Dr. Al-Issa pointed out that the of coexistence among all as well presence of His Excellency the MWL has Islamic cultural cen- as a confrontation of disturbed Ambassador of the Kingdom of ters. What matters here is what thoughts and messages that are Saudi Arabia to France, Dr. Kha- is going on in these centers; and dispatched to terrorists by ex- lid Al-Angari. what intellectual and academic tremist circles. Moreover, we are His Excellency Mr. Montagne materials they offer? Do these also keen to support the program welcomed Dr. Al-Issa and the centers present Islamic modera- for training of Imams of Mosques delegation, while wishing that tion and ideological awareness as with the support of official insti- Dr. Al-Issa’s visit would lead to well as programs and initiatives tutions authorized by competent the establishment of interaction of national integration? However,

l l 16 Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 ties and should not impose any religious practices and rituals that are provocative or those contrary to the laws, rules and regulations of their host countries in which they live. He also stressed that the mem- bers of these minorities should deal with due respect the public culture and national unity as well as respect the democratic values enshrined in the sovereign laws of States hosting them. However, he urged them to observe that certain individual errors should not affect the national law of the country in which they live. Like- Dr. Al-Issa in his speech at the Sorbonne University on reli- wise, the host countries should, gious minorities on their part, grant these minori- ties their religious particularities he confirmed that these matters the legal rights and obligations in practicing their own (religious) are very crucial to the MWL as of religious minorities in Europe rites and rituals and that the said we certainly know that many of and all other relevant matters. He countries should give these mem- the problems of extremism and specifically said that the members bers the right of citizenship and hatred are related to the issue of of these minorities must respect officially recognize their respec- integration. the laws and constitutions of the tive religions. countries where they live. Fur- Dr. Al-Issa visits Sorbonne Uni- thermore, they must respect the Dr. Al-Issa meets Ambassadors versity country’s culture and particulari- of the Islamic countries Furthermore, Dr. Al-Issa, paid a visit to the prestigious Sorbonne University in the French capi- tal, Paris, as part of his visit to France, where he delivered a lec- ture entitled “Religious minorities in Europe: legal and Islamic Per- spective”, with the participation of Prof. Stephen Lacora, Dean of the Faculty of Political Science at the University, Professor Louis Blanc, Counselor of the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Dr. Philip Petriya, Professor of Middle Eastern History at the Uni- versity. The lecture was attended by a number of academics and university students. In this lec- Dr. Al-Issa meets Ambassadors and Representatives of Islam- ture H.E. Dr. Al-Issa spoke about ic countries to UNESCO

l Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 l 17 interaction and visits with all dur- ing its initiatives that aim at dis- seminating the culture of world peace among religions.

Dr. Al-Issa meets the President of the Federation of the Protes- tant Church in Paris The Secretary-General expressed his happiness at the acceptance, understanding and cooperation shown by the officials of the in- stitutions and churches in France. He pointed out that the MWL is open to the world and is ready to communicate and interact with all in humanitarian common val- The Secretary General during the meeting with Rev. Adams ues. Hence, the world today, is in dire need of the support and as- Within the framework of the im- so that we have a community that sistance of religious leaders to all portant and the fundamental work lives in peace and safety. Further- groups, in order to educate people program of the MWL in its global more, His Excellency Dr. Ibrahim on spreading the culture of love, interaction with all international Al-Balawi, the Kingdom’s Am- tolerance, coexistence and accep- and popular institutions and or- bassador to UNESCO, pointed at tance of the other. As leaders of ganizations that is intended to the importance of such meetings, religions, we should always re- clarify moderation and true toler- which build the bridges of inter- spect, appreciate and support the ance of the Islamic religion, His action and communication as well sagacious opinion and the right Excellency Dr. Al-Issa, met the as promoting relations among the direction, away from the political Ambassadors of Islamic coun- people in the world. slogan. tries accredited to Paris and the The Secretary General praised He added, “We are visiting this permanent delegates of the Is- the cultural and heritage efforts Church, or religious institution, in lamic countries to the UNESCO of UNESCO on their very noble order to confirm to the world our at its headquarters in the French objective for which it was created interaction, communication and capital, Paris. and the endeavors of cooperation friendship. We have visited many The Chairperson of the Group with all. religious, ideological, intellectual, of Ambassadors of the Islamic Besides, he also met the Presi- diplomatic and social institutions Countries and the Ambassador dent of the Federation of the Prot- around the world to promote co- of Cote d’Ivoire to UNESCO, estant Church in Paris, Mr. Fran- operation as well as the goal and Professor Denis Houphouet, wel- cois Clavairoly, who applauded message, which the MWL strives comed the Secretary-General of the sincere efforts of His Excel- to achieve. These focus on the dis- the MWL and stressed the impor- lency, especially in his recent tour semination of peace and harmony tance of cooperation among Is- visits, which resulted in helping among the human beings, elucida- lamic countries in order to spread officials and leaders of different tion of the reality of the Islamic the culture of understanding and religions, the topmost of whom religion, removal of the impurities harmony among people, despite was the Pope Francesco Francis, raised by certain extremists, who the difference in their religions as to know about the task and objec- are falsely affiliated to Islam, as well as instill these values in the tives of the League in its new vi- extremists have also raised on oth- minds of the younger generations sion. This opened the horizons of er religions a lot of impurities.”

l l 18 Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 MWL condemns the launching of Houthi’s Militia of a ballistic missile on Riyadh

Makkah - The Muslim World League (MWL) The MWL has also stressed that this des- has strongly condemned in a statement the perate attempt comes in the context of the desperate attempt of the Iran-supported series of impetuousness of this kidnapped Houthi’s Militia in Yemen, and which was group, especially at the wake of its succes- represented in their targeting Riyadh with a sive defeats. It reiterated that this criminal launch of a ballistic missile, that was effec- deterioration is anticipated to disappear and tively intercepted and smashed by the Saudi to be uprooted so that Yemen enjoys safety, Royal Air Force without allowing it to cause security; and that those who disloyal to its any damage. legitimacy and history are overcome. The MWL has indicated in a statement The MWL has commended the attitude of issued by it that this criminal targeting ex- the governments and international organiza- poses the misleading tendencies in which tions that denounced the futile and random this coupe d’état junta and their supporters launching of Houth for missiles. implicated. It emphasized that desperate The MWL has made it clear that it is fully aggression reveals the level of the Iranian confident that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia regime’s attempts for interference in the re- is capable of deterring this criminal futility gion via futile sectarian practices. or wantonness and prevent its evils.

l Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 l 19 Fighting corruption is a must to achieve development goals, says MWL chief

Referring to corruption as a “black hole” that hinders relating to many factors, many of which are related to the development process of a nation, Dr. Muhammad fighting corruption, eliminating bureaucracy and en- bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa called for confronting this hancing transparency,” Al-Issa added. menace in all ways possible. He also referred to “compound corruption,” which Al-Issa, who is a member of the Council of Senior involves practicing corruption and justifying it. Scholars and Secretary-General of the Muslim World “There is a masked corruption, which involves League (MWL), was addressing an event organized calling corruption by other names, like tips, encour- by the Saudi Anti-Corruption Commission (Nazaha) agement and special facilities, and the most dangerous to mark International Corruption Day. type of corruption in this context is money launder- He told the audience about the different meanings ing,” said the MWL official. and kinds of corruption. Al-Issa described the extrem- He noted that serious efforts in fighting corruption ists’ skewed interpretation of the religion as intellec- from the top had a positive impact on the. The King- tual corruption. dom followed the way of the Prophet (peace be upon “Corruption could also be moral,” he said, adding him) in fighting corruption at the top; for the Prophet that financial corruption is often preceded by adminis- (peace be upon him) said: “I swear by Allah that if trative corruption. Fatimah, the daughter of Muhammad, should steal, I Al-Issa said our world is not programmed; it is a would have her hand cut off.” world of choice, test and free interaction. Hence, cor- This sends a clear message that no one has immuni- ruption is present and should be confronted in all ways ty, Al-Issa said. “But if fighting corruption starts from possible. the bottom, the elite may think they are immune.” He stressed the need to fight corruption to achieve He stressed that only authorized bodies should talk development goals. “Fighting corruption represents a about corruption cases based on evidence. Al-Issa also measure of development,” he said. praised the Saudi authorities for their efforts in fight- “That is why, there are competitiveness measures ing corruption.

l l 20 Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 Rabita Roundup

His Excellency the Secretary-General held a comprehensive dialogue in Ri- yadh with members of the Washington Institute for Near East Policy in the United States of America: with the presence of Dr. Robert Satloff, a number of important topics were discussed.

His Excellecy the MWL’s Secretary-General meets in his office in Riyadh the Norwegian Ambassador to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Mr. Øyvind Stokke.

l Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 l 21 His Excellency the Secretary-General of the Muslim World League meets in his office in Riyadh the Ambassador of France to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

HE Dr. Muhammad Al-Issa recieves at his Riyadh office HE Mr. Geert Criel, Ambassador of Kingdom of Belgium to Kingdom of Saudi Arabia & the accompanying delegation. Joint aspects of cooperation were dis- ussed in the audience.

l l 22 Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 His Excellency the President of Guinea Conakry Professor Alfa Condé receiving HE the SG of the Muslim World League in his residence dur- ing his stay in Paris.

His Excellency the Secretary-General of the Muslim World League, meets in his office in Riyadh the Ambassador of the Republic of Bu- rundi to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Mr. Issa Moussa Tambuka.

l Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 l 23 Trump’s Al-Quds Decision: A Miscalculated Move

M. Nasir Jawed

When President Trump unilaterally decided lution, upsetting any possible chance of future to change the status of Jerusalem, he also did peace talks; and dumping Palestinians into an it against the world opinion; he did it against abyss of hopelessness and resentment. many warnings from European as well as Arab leaders, against UN resolutions to this A Great Disappointment: regard, and against his own promises of Saudi Arabia described the whole develop- clinching a deal between Palestine and Israel ment as a “great disappointment,” to bring about a lasting peace in the Middle Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King East. Salman himself had publicly warned Trump The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia had previ- days before the announcement that moving ously warned of the serious consequences of the US embassy to Jerusalem was a “danger- such an “irresponsible and unwarranted step.” ous step” that could rile Muslims worldwide. The step was indeed an irresponsible and The Royal Court said: “The Kingdom ex- unwarranted as hundreds of thousands of Pal- presses its denunciation and deep regret that estinians have been illegally forced off their the (Trump) administration has taken this step, land and displaced, their homes bulldozed, as it represents a great bias against the historic and their housed razed to the ground, not to and permanent rights of the Palestinian people speak of the casualties that included women in Jerusalem, which have been affirmed by and children. the relevant international resolutions and have So, why did Trump go about doing hara- been recognized and supported by the interna- kiri of US foreign policy by going against tional community.” everyone in the world and enraging millions The Royal Court added that while Trump’s in the process? Why did he upset a decades- move does not weaken the “inalienable and long policy of not stoking the flames of Jeru- preserved rights of the Palestinian people in salem? Jerusalem and other occupied territories,” it The decision in any case is fraught with does “exemplify a drastic regression in the ef- dangers – danger of derailing the two-state so- forts to move the peace process forward. This

l l 24 Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 decision is a shift away from the historically to recognize the State of Palestine and East Je- impartial position of the United States with rusalem as its occupied capital.” regard to the issue of Jerusalem, which will The declaration also rejected and con- further complicate the Palestinian-Israeli con- demned the “unlawful” decision of the US flict.” president. It added that it was “not possible to give A Dangerous Step: up on an independent and sovereign Palestine The Muslim World League considered the US state, with East Jerusalem as its capital.” decision a dangerous step that “contravenes “[...Trump’s decision on Jerusalem] is null the historic rights of the Palestinian people and void on the basis of history, laws and con- in the city and the international resolutions in science,” the declaration said. this regard.” “We call on the UN, EU and members of MWL Secretary-General Dr. Muhammad the international community to look after UN Al-Issa issued a statement saying “the deci- resolutions on Jerusalem’s status,” it added. sion will face great Islamic anger and opens serious repercussions, and that the simplest Degrading the UN expression of this step is that it enters the is- The United States is no United Nations, yet sue of Al-Quds which is of key significance to it carries weight on international matters ow- the conscience of Muslims, thereby creating ing to its considerable clout in the matters of complex problems that would have an effect world politics, economics and military power. on the principle of non-influence on the final The UN, on the other hand, is a toothless status negotiations. international body, but it symbolizes legiti- The MWL Secretary-General said that macy and a legal world platform to decide on since Al-Quds represents Muslims belief, the matters of dispute, or any other issue of inter- can only be handled through a just and fair national concerns. solution that preserves history and which ac- Therefore, the Dec. 6 decision by Trump knowledges the right to put things in perspec- to recognize Al-Quds as the capital of Israel tive, without any bias or complications. brought forth a moot question whether the decades-long dispute — and arguably world’s No Role for US Now: longest drawn conflict — could be decided The Organization of Islamic Cooperation unilaterally by a country’s might and influ- (OIC) considered Washington’s decision to ence, or through a legitimate course that pass- recognise Jerusalem as the capital of Israel es through the United Nations. as a sign of US withdrawal from its role as a Space constrains me to go into the de- sponsor of Middle East peace. tails of the history of the UN as why it was At a summit held in Istanbul, Turkey, on felt at all by the world leaders to create this December 13, the OIC passed resolutions world body, but bypassing the UN on matters that declared “East Jerusalem as the capital of of world concerns is the breach of a global the State of Palestine, and invite all countries trust.

l Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 l 25 IIROSA makes progress in strengthening its achievements

Afshan Abdulaziz The International Islamic Relief Organization, Sau- men and will always be ahead to support the poor and di Arabia (IIROSA), an affiliate of Muslim World the needy in Yemen. League in the past months had firmly established it- A number of general issues relating to the means self among the global organizations that are active in of delivering food stuff and providing more health, relief operation largely due to the constant support of social and educational services to the affected areas King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Crown Prince Mu- in Yemen were discussed in the meeting. Particularly, hammad bin Salman. they discussed that the province of Hajjah, which is IIROSA is expanding its field in a unique way populated by huge number of citizens are not able to by working with different international organizations practice their professions that is fishing due to the and maintaining a give-and-take relationship that can war. strengthen capacity for long-term cooperation and IIROSA provided 522,114,29 Saudi Riyals for collaboration. relief and food stuff in Yemen that benefitted thou- The Governor of Hajjah city in Yemen, Abdulka- sands of needy people. Moreover, the total amount rim Ahmad Al-Sunaini visited IIROSA headquar- of budget allocated to health relief from 1432-1438 ters and met the Secretary-General of IIROSA. He was around 3 million riyals and during the last three praised the great efforts exerted by the organization years, IIROSA operated 1250 surgeries in a num- to relief the people of Yemen during the last few years ber of medical specializations in 21 areas in Yemen and helping those victims suffered from crises. and distributed medical supplies to those affected by Hassan Shahbar, Secretary-General of IIROSA, wars. welcomed him and said that under the instructions of Besides, the organization sponsored 4820 orphans the Muslim World League (MWL) Secretary-Gener- under the orphan sponsorship program from different al, Muhammad bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa, IIROSA will areas in Yemen. In addition to this, IIROSA builds a continue providing the assistance to the people of Ye- total number of 20 mosques with an amount of 9 mil-

l l 26 Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 lion riyals, drilled 27 artesian wells and 69 shallow ed around 11793 health checkups for about 3 million wells with an amount of 3 million riyals. riyals and conducted 8000 cataract surgeries and 628 IIROSA organized an open medical day in Am- lens implants during the year 2008-2016. man with the participation of fourteen Saudi male and Likewise, the organization celebrated the World female doctors graduated from different Jordanian Sight Day in South Africa. The Minister of Health in universities to check 150 widows and orphans. The South Africa appreciated the collaboration between team advised the mothers regarding dental health, IIROSA and the Ministry to fight blindness in South diabetes and eyesight. Africa and commented that such camps alleviate the Abdulkarim Musa, regional director of IIROSA sufferings while giving hope to sufferers. The celebra- representative office in Jordan, mentioned that this tion was held by IIROSA in Durban and attended by medical day gave the doctors and the patients’ to un- a number of officials. The Deputy Minister of Health derstand more about IIROSA as they were introduced also praised IIROSA’s collaboration that resulted in a to different projects of the organization in Jordan and number of eye surgical camps in South Africa. in neighboring countries. It was a successful project The Regional Director of IIROSA, Waleed Al- and doctors participated in it were honored for their Saadi welcomed all the officials during the ceremony great efforts and IIROSA look forward to more col- and thanked the officials for facilitating the medical laboration with them. camp. On the sidelines of the celebration, IIROSA The Bureaucratic official of Saudi Cultural Bureau also conducted 50 cataract surgeries in South Africa. in Jordan, Hassan also expressed his appreciation to The organization conducted several programs to IIROSA and stated that they didn’t expect that IIRO- fight blindness in Africa. From August to September, SA had such huge projects in Jordan and that they 25,000 checkups and 27,00 eye surgeries were orga- support Palestinian and Syrian refugees in addition nized and also IIROSA established an eye medical to sponsoring 10,000 orphans in Jordan. “We look center in South Africa. forward to a close collaboration between the clubs Apart from implementing two surgical camps in of Saudi students in Jordan and IIROSA representa- collaboration with Sight Savers to fight blindness in tive office especially in the area of charity works,” Tanzania, IIROSA implemented 50 cardiac catheter- he added. ization surgeries in Tanzania and provided medical Similarly, the Prime Minister of Gambia, Hajj equipment for an amount of 250,000 Saudi Riyals Hussein Darbu praised IIROSA efforts for imple- and donated them to JakayaKikwete Cardiac Institute menting 400 cataract surgeries in Farafenni, Gam- in Tanzania as 30% of the population suffers from bia. Under the directions of IIROSA, a medical team heart diseases. Professor Mohammad Janabi, senior from Saudi Arabia was sent for a week to alleviate doctor and director of this institute appreciated II- the suffering of sick and poor people. “In the frame- ROSA efforts and look further to more collaboration. work of IIROSA projects to fight blindness, this was In 2014, around 10,000 people were treated and 600 the first medical camp to be implemented in the city cataract surgeries were implemented. Whereas, in of Farafenni,” said Shahbar. 2017, 500 cataract surgeries and 4000 checkups were The launching ceremony was attended by the city organized, in addition to the distribution of 300 eye- Governor, Muhammad Diva, President of the Su- glasses, 260 eye drops, and antibiotics. preme Council of Islamic Affairs, Sheikh Muham- IIROSA also concluded its first neurological sur- mad Al-Amin Tori, the regional director of IIROSA gery in Mauritania. A medical team consisting of representative office in the Gambia, Mahmoud Fal- eight Saudi consultants conducted 60 prostatectomy lata along with a number of doctors and high offi- surgeries that is removal of kidney stones. cials. Around 400 patients were checked and 4000 Hence, IIROSA is expanding its humanitarian cataract surgeries were operated, 110 eyeglasses and work at a robust pace and projecting itself into the 5000 eye drops were distributed. future. In 2017, IIROSA has taken a disciplined hu- The Governor expressed his gratefulness to IIRO- manitarian approach, harmoniously reinforce its pres- SA and the medical team as they exerted loads of ef- ence in countries affected by crises and calamities, in forts and struggled to reach the city across the river. addition to targeting a maximum number of people IIROSA has a dental clinic and medical hospital in need in terms of relief, education and health as- in NemaKunku in the Gambia and it also implement- sistance.

l Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 l 27 MWL appreciates kingdom’s firm, just efforts towards Al-Quds

The Muslim World League has af- would push it towards the peace process firmed that recognition of Al-Quds as and forward, and that turning it back the capital of Israel is a dangerous step would pose more serious repercussions that contravenes the historic right of the for the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. Palestinian people in Al-Quds and the He added that the MWL as an um- international resolutions in this regard. brella for the Islamic peoples confirms Secretary-General of the Muslim that Al-Quds represents in the Islamic World League Sheikh Dr. Muhammad sense an important issue that accepts bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa said in a state- only a just and fair solution that pre- ment that any such decision will face serves history and the right to put things great Islamic anger and opens serious in perspective without any negative bias repercussions, and that the simplest ex- or serious complication. pression of this step is that it enters the On behalf of the MWL, he thanked issue of Al-Quds which fateful in the the efforts of the Kingdom of Saudi Islamic conscience in complexities af- Arabia in this issue, especially the re- fecting the principle of non-influence cent declaration of a firm and fair stance on the final status negotiations. towards it, translating what must be the He hoped that the United States voice of the Islamic world.

l l 28 Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 Muslim Coalition working with international organizations to fight terror

RIYADH: Leaders of the Islamic Military Counter Al-Saleh also stated that participation in the imple- Terrorism Coalition (IMCTC) believe that it might be mentation of initiatives would be voluntary for IM- the best hub to fight global terror. CTC member states. He stressed that each plan would IMCTC General Secretary Lt. Gen. Abdullah bin be subject to continuous monitoring, follow-up and Othman Al-Saleh revealed the nature of the work of evaluation to measure the extent of its success and the the alliance, a platform that aims to open areas of co- possibility of developing it to get better results. operation between member states, taking into consid- Al-Saleh said that working with international or- eration integration with supporting states outside the ganizations is considered to be the bedrock of the alliance and the relevant organizations interested in coalition. He said there is a project underway to be fighting terrorism. presented to the ministers, which would monitor open Al-Saleh said in a news conference he held with sources all over the world in search of extremist and retired Gen. Raheel Sharif, the coalition’s military hate rhetoric. commander, and Dr. Muhammad bin Abdulkarim Al- Al-Issa defined “terrorism” as an organized act Issa, Secretary-General of the Muslim World League, which causes fear, concern and property destruction that the defense ministers of the IMCTC, in their first and is operated by organizations and groups with an meeting in Riyadh, exchanged information and initia- ideological background. He also stressed that military tives which will be presented soon, noting that there confrontation is important but does not uproot terror- are institutional plans and strategies aimed at drying ism because the more important strategy is the intel- up the sources of terrorism and its finances. lectual confrontation.

l Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 l 29 The Hijri Calendar - A Defining Episode In Islam

Dr. Mrs. Fatima Taneem Ruknuddeen

Millions of people globally from all walks of life wel- liefs, traditions and the geography of varied commu- comed the New Year 2018 of the Gregorian Calendar nities utilizing them. Such calendars provided deeper with pomp and gaiety. This Gregorian Calendar is the understanding of the history, culture, scientific devel- ‘de-facto’ or so-called international standard calen- opment and religion of its followers. Their constant dar used worldwide for civil and official purposes. Yet use in everyday affairs streamlined the societies of the there are about 40 other types of calendars still be- past and still continues to impact us in this modern age ing used by various communities and countries of the of digitalization. world, mainly for their religious and social activities. A Lunar calendar being widely used by 1.7 billion Since time immemorial, humans have been utiliz- Muslims across the globe since a thousand odd years is ing various systems of time-reckoning; with the earli- the Hijri or The Islamic Calendar. Muslims have been est calendars being based either on the movement of referring to it mainly for their festivals and religious the Sun or the Moon or sometimes both. Thus, these observances. It is of immense importance to Muslims calendars were named Solar, Lunar and Lunisolar. The and plays a vital role in their lives. In September 2017, early calendars were strongly influenced by the- be Muslims ushered in the new Hijri year 1439; though

l l 30 Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 on a subdued note when compared to the New Year migrated to Madina, Muslims started to name the celebrations of the Gregorian Calendar. years after its main events. For instance, the first year An insight into the Hijri Calendar - Pre-Islamic of Prophet (peace be upon him)’s residence in Madi- Calendar nah was called “The Year of Permission to travel”; the The birth of Islam did not give rise to the Islamic second year was called “The Year of the Command Calendar immediately; rather it was introduced much to Fight”; the third year was called “The Year of the later during the second Caliph - Umar bin Al-Khattab Test”; and so on. But later on, the custom of naming (RA)’s time. Before the arrival of Islam, the Arabs the year after the main events was abandoned. After used a lunar and occasionally lunisolar calendar with- the conquest of Makkah, the Prophet (peace be upon out utilizing the year numbers. Instead they identified him) abolished the practice ‘of al-nasi’ and the 12 lu- the years by important historical events and connected nar months were established. them to their own personal lives. A few of the histori- cal events are stated below: Origin Of The Hijri Calendar • The Year of Treason in 461 BCE: This was the year The second Caliph Umar bin Al-Khattab (RA) was the the Banu Yarboo stole goods that some king of first ‘settler of dates’. In 638 CE, Caliph Umar (RA) Banu Himyar had sent for Kaa’ba. received a letter from his Governor of Basra, Abu • The Year of Ma’rib Dam Collapse in Yemen in 120 Musa Al-Asha’ri (RA) stressing the need for proper BCE. dating system so as to obey the Caliph’s commands. • The Year of Elephant in 571 CE : This was the year Umar (RA) consulted his advisors as the vast fund of when Abraha came to Makkah intending to destroy the expanding Islamic Empire also needed to be up- the Kaa’ba but failed miserably due to Divine help. dated regularly. Though the Persian and the Jewish A few months later, our Prophet Muhammad (peace systems of tabulation were proposed, the assembly be upon him) was born in this year. of the notables eventually agreed to utilize a Distinct • The Year of Reconstruction of the Kaa’ba in 605 Islamic Calendar with the Prophet (peace be upon CE: him)’s migration to Madinah, the Hijra, being the Ep- The Pre-Islamic Calendar had 12 lunar months; och of the Islamic Era. The date of Hijra was known though there was no standard when it came to num- to all those present and did not arouse controversy bering their months. Traditionally, the ‘Qalammas’ like did the date of Prophet (peace be upon him)’ s from the Banu Kinanah tribe would announce the birth and the date of first Divine message . The Hijra time of onset of the next Hajj and the ‘sacred months’. was the Divinely-ordained migration of the Prophet These sacred months were the 4 month observed in (peace be upon him) and His Companions (RA) along the whole of Arabia since the time of Prophet Ibrahim with their families from Makkah to Madinah to save (AS).But the pagan Arabs used to commonly practice them from intolerable persecution at the hands of the ‘al-nasi’ i.e., postponing or transposing of the months. pagan Arabs. ‘Hijra’ denoted a stupendous milestone This was done in two ways – in Islam leading to the foundation of the first Muslim 1) 1. Whenever it suited their needs of revenge and City State of Madinah and the subsequent rise of Is- fighting; the Arabs would declare the ‘sacred’ month lam from thence onwards. Although the actual month to be ordinary and later make the ordinary month ‘sa- of the Prophets (peace be upon him)’s entry into Mad- cred’ to make up the deficiency. According to the Se- inah was Rabi’-al-Awwal; the month of Muaharram erah writers, the Arabs had made one year Muharram was taken as the first month of the Islamic Hijra year; ordinary and the next month of ‘Safar’ sacred. and for all future times, the Islamic Era was counted 2. Another way of ‘Nasi’ was the addition of a from it. Thus, 1st Muharram, 1 AH corresponded to month in order to synchronise their lunar year to the July 15th, 622 CE of the Christian calendar, AH be- solar year to make the Hajj fall in the same season ing the latinised form “Anno Hegirae” denoting the every year to avoid inconveniences caused by the sea- ‘The Year of Hijra’. Therefore, the Islamic Calendar sonal conditions and to increase trade. The pagan Ar- is called the Hijri Calendar and was started 17 years abs used to add a month after every 3 years, and for after the actual Hijra and established the Islamic Year the next 36 years, Hajj was observed on dates other Count . than the actual days of Dhul-Hijja. After Prophet Muhammed (peace be upon him) Months Of The Hijri Calendar

l Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 l 31 There are 12 months in the Hijri calendar, the names leaving their dwellings and going in different direc- of which have remained unchanged since Pre-Islamic tions to search for water or fight their enemies. times with the ‘sacred’ months also being retained, RAMADAN – This is the 9th month whose name as ordained by Allah and His Prophet Muhammed is derived from the Arabic word ‘Ramada’ meaning (peace be upon him). Ever since the days of Prophet ‘scorching heat’ indicating the hot summer time. In Ibrahim(AS), the 4 ‘sacred’ months had been observed 2nd Hijra, Ramadan was decreed by Allah (SWT) to by the Arabs all over the Arabian Peninsula. During be the month of fasting with the most Blessed nights these months, the Arabs would hold their markets of all, the Laylatul-Qadr also occurring in this month. such as ‘Ukaaz’ and they would go on pilgrimage to SHAWWAL – This is the 10th month whose name Makkah knowing that they would be safe on road and is taken from the Arabic word ‘Tashawwala’ referring at home from raids, plunder and killings as fighting to the ‘scarcity of milk in the female camels’. and shedding blood was strictly prohibited. DHUL QA’DAH – This is the 11th month, its name The names of the Hijri Calendar with their brief being derived from the Arabic word “Qa’ada” mean- description is given below : ing ‘to sit’ referring to Arabs being at home and avoid- MUHARRAM – This is the 1st month whose name ing fights as this was a ‘sacred’ month. is derived from the Arabic word ‘Harama’ meaning ‘to DHUL HIJJAH- This is the 12th and the last month be forbidden’ and denoted the prohibition of fighting of the Hijri Calendar and is named as such since the as this month was ‘sacred’. annual pilgrimage to Makkah or Hajj was performed SAFAR – This is the 2nd month and has 2 theories in this month since Prophet Ibrahim(AS)’s time and behind its name – still continues to be performed till date; being the 5th 1. It is derived from ‘Sifr’ meaning ‘zero or empty’ de- pillar of Islam. This is also a ‘sacred’ month. Eid-ul- picting the empty Arab homes as its men returned Adha is also celebrated in this month. back to their expeditions and fightings after a 3 Therefore, it is noted that all the 12 lunar Islamic month respite period. months have been named according to the seasons or 2. It’s name is derived from ‘Sufr’ meaning ‘yellow’ rituals seen when the calendar was first established referring to the autumn time wherein leaves turn and that they were in place much before the birth of yellow. Islam. RABI’ AL-AWWAL- This is the 3rd month and The important days or month of the Hijri calendar its literal translation is ‘first month of spring’ derived are as follows – from the growing of grass in this month. Our beloved 1st Muharram –New Year Prophet (peace be upon him) is believed to have been 10th Muharram –Ashura born as well as died in this month. Ramadhan –Month of Fasting RABI’ AT-THAANI – This is the 4th month trans- 1st Shawwal –Eid-ul-Fitr lated as the ‘second month of spring’ denoting the 9th Dhul Hijja –Arafat Day spring time. 10th Dhul Hijja –Eid-ul-Adha JAMADAL-AWWAL – This is 5th month whose 11th,12th,&13th Dhul Hijja – Ayyam al-Tashreek name literally means ‘the first freeze’ referring to the freezing of water in winter. Qur’an And The Hijri Calendar JAMADAT-THANI – This is the 6th month whose The Glorious Quran has mentioned time measurement name means the ‘second freeze’ indicating the winter in various Ayaats of its different Surahs, either briefly time. or in detail. Mentioned below are translations of a few RAJAB – This is the 7th month whose name is de- Ayaats or its sections pertaining to the above subject rived from the Arabic word ‘Rajaba’ meaning ‘to be – respected’ indicating the sanctity of this month as it •Surah Al Baqarah Verse189… : ‘They ask you ( O was ‘sacred’. During this month the ‘lesser pilgrim- Muhammed) (SAW) about the new moons, Say : age’ or ‘Umrah’ was usually undertaken by the Arabs They are signs to mark fixed periods of time for as it was safe to travel. mankind and for the pilgrimage… SHA’BAN – This is the 8th month whose name is •Surah Taubah Verse 36… and 37… : ‘Verily the derived from the Arabic word ‘Tashaba’ meaning ‘to number of months with Allah is 12 months(in disperse in different directions’ referring to the Arabs a year), so was it ordained by Allah on the Day

l l 32 Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 when He created the Heavens and the Earth; of determine the future dates of the calendar and are not them 4 are sacred(1st, 7th, 11th&12th) months of dependent on the astronomical observances. Umm-al- the Islamic Calendar. ‘The postponing (of a sacred Qura Calendar with its multiple reforms is one such month) is indeed an addition to disbelief, thereby calendar used in Saudi Arabia and followed by some the disbelievers are led astray, for they make law- of its neighbours. Very recently, UAE’s Unified Hijri ful one year and forbid it another year in order to Calendar of 1439 was launched in September 2017 adjust the number of months forbidden by Allah, and is based on the lunar cycle, astronomical calcula- and they make lawful what Allah has forbidden... tions, scientific interactions and the Sharia. But these •Surah Yunus verse 5… : ‘It is He who has made calendars may have different dates from the calendars the Sun a shining light and the moon as a derived based on actual moon sighting. Such date variations light and measured out for it stages that you might of printed Islamic Calendars is mainly due to the use know the number of years and the reckoning… of different visibility criterion for the first moon vis- •Surah Yaseen verse 39 : ‘And the moon, We have ibility by various countries and muslim communities measured for it mansions(to traverse) till it returns in the absence of a single Global criterion. Although like ‘the old, dried, curved date stalk.’ attempts have been made to have a uniform single Is- The above mentioned Quranic verses form the ba- lamic Calendar that could be used worldwide; with sis of the Hijri calendar ever since its establishment . the most recent event being conducted in Turkey in 2016, the International Hijri Calendar Union Congress Workings Of The Hijri Calendar wherein Islamic scholars and scientists from various Being lunar based, the Hijri calendar is tied to the countries collaborated and agreed on a single lunar phases of the moon. Each Lunar month is based on calendar to be used by Muslims all around the world. the time taken by the moon to complete a single orbit But, unfortunately, this too did not materialize and the around the Earth and lasts a Full Lunation. This is the disparity about which day to begin Ramadan and Eid time span from one New Moon to the next and takes across the globe continues. 29-30 days. Each new lunar month begins only after The Islamic Calendar consists of 354 or 355 days; a Waxing Crescent Moon is sighted; this phase being being 11 days shorter than the Gregorian Calendar. observed immediately after the New Moon phase. The Thus for each year that passes, Islamic dates fall on new day of the Hijri Calendar commences from the earlier dates in the Gregorian Calendar with the im- sunset or Maghrib time unlike the new day beginning portant days of the Muslims traveling all around the at midnight in Gregorian Calendar. ‘Hilal’ is the Ara- Gregorian months independent of the seasons. It takes bic term for the Waxing Crescent Moon and ‘Badr’ is 33 years until the Hijra year has cycled through a full the term for a Full Moon. Gregorian Year and given an Islamic date that falls in The traditional version of the Islamic Calendar re- the same Gregorian month. quires an authorized person or a committee to make The current Hijri year is 1439 and 1st Muharram a physical sighting of the Waxing Crescent Moon to 1439 AH was observed on 21st September 2017. determine length of each month. Therefore, the actual In conclusion ,the Hijri Calendar provides in- length of the Islamic months cannot be predicted in numerable benefits to the muslims. Muslims turn advance. Sometimes, clouds and other adverse atmos- to the Hijri calendar for their acts of worship; be it pheric conditions could otherwise obscure a visible their annual festivals or rituals or their monthly re- moon thereby causing the new month to begin a day ligious observances. It delineates the Madani phase later at a short notice. A new month may also begin of the Seerah and the other major Islamic events. It on a different day in different places and countries as helps the Muslims to connect to their Islamic roots the time of moonset at a location depends on its lon- and further broadens their knowledge of Islam and gitude. its glorious history. It also serves as a reminder to Presently, to make the timings of the Islamic the present Muslims the sacrifices made by the earli- months and observances easier to predict and also to est Muslims for Islam and aspires us to do the same aid in printing Islamic Calendars in advance, many in order to seek Allah’s pleasure. Hence, the Hijri modified versions of the traditional calendar are used Calendar is of esteemed religious and historical sig- by several countries and communities globally. Some nificance for the Muslims of the past, the present countries also follow the astronomical calculations to and the future.

l Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 l 33 Islamic Scholars urges at KUC 2017 Bring mass media into practice to tackle extremism

Osman Muhammad Osman

Islamic Scholars have been urged to use the concept of moderation in preaching and avoid aggression, which does not symbolize the true nature of Islam as religion. They said that Ulama or the Islamic religious scholars play an important role in explaining true Islamic teachings. They should use the mass media as a tool to counter extremism and prevent Muslims from being influenced by the ideology of terror groups. “Some ulama and other learned ones stay away from the mass media, while the mass media is among the most important channels to disseminate ac- curate information which can protect the image of Islam”, Speakers added.

l l 34 Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 He also said that the appreciation of wasatiyyah concept would be able to enlighten and advance the Muslim population, so that they could play various roles in politics, the economy and socially. The two-day long Khayr Ummah Conference (KUC) 2017 with the theme - ‘The Manhaj of the Ahlu As-Sunnah Unites ASEAN’, has provided a rare oppor- tunity of meeting and introductory platform amongst other Islamic scholars in the Southeast Asian region to establish close ties for the long run. The conference was attended by scientific and re- ligious figures from ministers, intellectuals, scholars, preachers, thinkers and university employees, more than 1200 participants from ASEAN countries include Malaysia, Indonesia, Brunei, the Philippines, Singa- pore, Thailand, Cambodia, Myanmar and Vietnam, as well as participants from other Asian countries such as Japan, China, Korea, Hong Kong, Taiwan, with virtue Imam and preacher of Al-Haram Al-Makki. This program looks to motivate the spirit of coop- eration and solidarity between organizations and indi- vidual Islamic scholars in the Southeast Asian region in terms of scholarship, education, socio-economic, security and welfare. With the theme ‘The Manhaj of the Ahl Al-Sunnah This conference is an Unites ASEAN’, this is a program that receives coop- affirmation of the eration from the Prime Minister’s Department of Ma- laysia and the Ministry Islamic Affairs, Da’wah and strong brotherly rela- Guidance of Saudi Arabia (KHEIDBAS). tionship between Sau- The organizers of the program are the Department of Special Affairs (JASA), Malaysian Communications di Arabia and Malaysia and Multimedia Ministry, Al-Khaadem Organisation Malaysia (Al-Khaadem), The Malaysian Ilmuan Or- ganization (ILMU), and Universiti Teknologi MARA Sheikh Dr. Rashid Al-Zahrani from the Ministry of (UITM) is entrusted with the responsibility as the Pro- Religious Affairs of Saudi Arabia in his speech said that gram Coordinator. every criticism made by a preacher should be based on The conference was jointly sponsored by the Prime the Qur’an and Sunnah. Minister’s Department of Malaysia and the Ministry “Let us not define religion with aggression or soft- Islamic Affairs, Da’wah and Guidance of Saudi Arabia ness according to our whims ... but we must follow the (KHEIDBAS). true teachings of Islam. The conference was held at the Intercontinental “Avoid using aggression as it will lead to conflicts, Hotel, Kuala Lumpur from 26th until 27th November which subsequently leads to division,” he said when 2017. presenting his research paper titled “The Efforts of the A total of 30 research papers were presented in the Contemporary Ulama in Realizing the Concept of Wa- conference. The papers were on various themes which satiyyah” at the Asean-level Khayr Ummah Conference has been set from scholars and distinguished thinkers 2017 (KUC 2017) . from international sphere. The themes are included Sheikh Rashid added that the concept of wasatiyyah Manhaj Wasatiyyah Islam; The Indulgence of Manhaj (moderation) was based on the teachings of the Prophet and the Importance of Implementation; Threats which Muhammad (peace be upon him). threatens the sustainability of Wasatiyyah; The Extrem-

l Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 l 35 ism Groups and its effect in disuniting the Ummah; The Efforts of Islamic Ulama in Implementing Wasatiyyah; The importance of Contemporary example in Wasatiyyah Implementation; and the Efforts of States and Islamic Organizations In spreading the culture of the Implementation of Wasatiyyah and The Empower- constructive dialogue ment of the Ummah Solidarity The research papers were presented in different lan- and peaceful coexistence guages including English, Arabic and Malay. In the conference, a good number of workshops were with non-Muslims citi- held simultaneously with the intellectual discourse in zens and residents hopes to further enhance the sharing of knowledge as well as contributing to the generation of the conference resolution. The religious and intellectual challenges fac- state Islamic religious council, centers of excellence ing Muslims in ASEAN countries and how to confront and even NGOs. them, Muslim women in ASEAN countries and their This conference aimed to be a multi-disciplinary role in building Khayrummah, Communication and knowledge-sharing platform. The organizers hope that cooperation among the Muslims of ASEAN countries this conference is able to provide a clearer overview (means and outputs), Skills and etiquette of dialogue of the regional community on issues and challenges of with the other and Saudi experience in combating ter- Muslims in the present times and also in futures. rorism were the main topics of the workshops. Exhibition was one of the main attractions of the Why Khayr Ummah? conference. The conference also features the exhibition 1. In response to the great challenges facing the Islamic participated by various government agencies, depart- Ummah today and the aggressive campaigns in the in- ments and institutions, non-governmental organiza- ternational media and the spread of radical trends and tions and the private sector. ideas that belong to Islam directly or indirectly as well Exhibitions organizers are included the Ministry of as the Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASE- Islamic Affairs, Da’wah and Guidance of Saudi Ara- AN) needs to highlight Wasatiyyah, moderation, and bia, Department of Special Affairs (JASA), Universiti tolerance of Islam. Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Al-Khaadem Organization 2. This conference is an affirmation of the strong Malaysia (Al-Khaadem), The Malaysian Ilmuan Orga- brotherly relationship between Saudi Arabia and Malay- nization (iLMU). The other participants in the exhibi- sia, and as a motivation for joint cooperation between tions were: Abu Bakar Al-Siddiq center (Cambodia), the two countries in order to unite Muslims, promoting Icheon Islamic centre (South Korea), University Ke- Wasatiyyah and moderation, strengthen Ahlu Assunnah bangsaan Malaysia (UKM), University Malaya (UM), Wal Jamaah in the face of the major challenges fac- University Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM), University ing Muslims in this age and to strengthen the great role Sultan Zainal Abidin (UNISZA), Institute Wasatiyyah played by countries in the fight against terrorism and Malaysia, Jabatan Kemajuan Islam Malaysia (JAKIM), extremism. Pejabat Mufti Wilayah Persekutuan, Al-Furqan Acad- emy, Al-Kha’adem Youth, Al-Madinah International University, Amal Hope, Arees University, Bushra Objectives of the conference: Holdings SDN BHD , Dakwah Corner Book Store, Id- The Conference seeks to achieve the following ob- rissi International School, Ilmu Salaf Dot Com, Karya jectives: Pis, Mkm Ticketing Travel & Tours, Pertubuhankema- 1. To discuss the development of “Khayr Ummah” in nusiaan Ensany Malaysia (PKEM), Sekolah Kiblah, realizing the National Transformation 2050 (TN50) Super Thinkers, Tajweed Made Easy Academy Global, from religious aspects. Yayasan Dana Kebajikan Muslim Malaysia (YDKMM) 2. To provides a meeting platform and to introductions and Yayasan Ta’lim. between fellow Islamic missionaries in the South- The targeted audience of the program includes pub- east Asia region to establish close and beneficial re- lic and private higher education institutions, Islamic lationships over the long term. studies centers, government agencies, statutory bodies, 3. To foster the spirit of cooperation and solidarity be-

l l 36 Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 general. The importance of coop- His Excellency explained that the partnership be- tween the two countries comes from the strengthening eration between the par- of Ahl Al-Sunnah Wa Al-Jamaah through the promo- ties concerned with the tion of religious concepts of Wasatiyyah. In this re- gard, the Minister pointed out that the organization of service of the Prophetic “Khayr Ummah” conference was timely; for many rea- sons: First; the great challenges facing the Ummah call Sunnah and the Proph- for clarifying the truth of Islam and responding to the et’s Hadith suspicions that try to link Islam and Muslims to terror- ism. Second: The conference contributes to strengthen- ing Ahl Al-Sunnah Wal Jamaah who are the majority of tween organizations and individuals of Dua’at in the Islamic nation. Southeast Asia region in terms of scholarship, edu- In addition, he pointed out that this conference is cation, socio-economic, peace, and welfare. the first of a series of conferences entitled “Ummatan 4. Promote the exchange of ideas and experiences of Wasatan” which will be organized by the Ministry of fellow organizations and individual regional Dua’at Islamic Affairs, Da’wah and Guidance in the Kingdom in the areas of education, economics, and social of of Saudi Arabia in the ASEAN countries. Adding that regional Muslims. Malaysia has been selected as the first and important 5. Nurturing a culture of mutual help helps in goodness station for this series of conferences. and piety by realizing the Islamic teachings that are Moreover, His Excellency pointed out that the coop- fused to meet current challenges. eration between the Kingdom and Malaysia reflects the 6. Explore the opportunities of cooperation and unity sense of responsibility towards the Islamic Ummah, in among organizations and individuals Dua’at in vari- particular, and the world in general, by emphasizing all ous areas that are important to Muslim Southeast the meanings of good for the benefit of all mankind. Asian regional specialists and throughout the world In this regard, His Excellency Sheikh Saleh de- in general. scribed Malaysia as the most important country in the 7. Produce a new generation of visionary missionar- Islamic world, because its leaders have the courage and ies by maintaining the principle of “wasatiyyah” the ability to take important and crucial decisions that (simplicity) to ensure that ASEAN countries remain support right and good, renounce evil, and reduce ev- peaceful and harmonious towards the construction erything that might cause conflict between the Ummah of “Khaira Ummah” holistically. or to enable the enemies of the Ummah.

Closing Session of the conference: Address by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of The closing session included speeches by the Minis- Interior: ter of Islamic Affairs, Da’wa and Guidance in Saudi Malaysian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of In- Arabia, Sheikh Saleh bin Abdulaziz bin Muhammad terior Dato’ Sri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi delivered a Al-ASheikh, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of speech of thanks to all those who contributed to orga- Interior Dato’ Seri Dr. Ahmed Zahid Hamidi. As well nizing the conference, noting the great attendance and as the Director of Al-Khadem Foundation Sheikh Hus- active participation in the conference by scholars and sein bin Abdullah. The session concluded by announc- academics who came from ASEAN countries and other ing the recommendations of the Conference. Arab countries to share their knowledge and experienc- His Excellency Sheikh Saleh bin Abdulaziz bin Mu- es. Various disciplines; to provide inputs and enhance hammad Al Al-Sheikh delivered a speech at the closing the role and contributions of Islam in nation-building, session of the conference. He stressed the strong rela- and unify ASEAN in a comprehensive manner. tions between Saudi Arabia and Malaysia. Adding that “We must take the challenges we face today seri- the cooperation between the two countries included all ously,” he said. “We need strategies to overcome them. political, economic and military fields, as well as coop- We cannot move on our own. We must agree, confront eration in the face of terrorism, which is now a threat and deal with the so-called Islamophobia, and the high to the Islamic Ummah in particular and to humanity in image of Islam must come back again, and the humani-

l Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 l 37 tarian tragedies related to the erroneous perception of Islam must be clarified and corrected. He added “We need to clarify the reality of the Is- lamic religion and its correct way, and we also need to highlight the virtue of this nation, and justice in Islam and moderation in the biography of the Prophet peace be upon him and his companions, Yes, it is a great chal- lenge. We have a common approach to terrorism. We must take a common approach in fighting it. We must intensify our efforts to stop the wars in the Middle East. We can not just witness the plight of the Rohingya Mus- lims in Myanmar, We demand a quick and concrete so- lution before the situation gets out of hand. The Deputy Prime Minister continued: “We must tell the world, and we affirm the justice and integrity of Islam, and the manifestations of the scientific and between them, (And if your Lord had willed, He could practical legacy of the great Muslim scholars, their re- have made mankind one community; but they will not jection of fanaticism, especially the four imams Abu cease to differ* Except whom your Lord has given Hanifa, Malik, Shafi’i, and Ahmad bin Hanbal (may mercy, and for that He created them. But the word of Allah have mercy on them). It is necessary to coop- your Lord is to be fulfilled that, “I will surely fill Hell erate in unifying Ahl Al-Sunnah Wa Al-Jamaah in the with jinn and men altogether.”) (Surat Hood, Verse ASEAN region and protect them from the deviant sects 118-119). that intend to tear apart their unity and spread sectari- At the end of his speech, Dr. Ahmad Zahid Humaidi anism and differences between them. This is crucial asked His Excellency Sheikh Saleh Al Al-Sheikh to to controlling the spread of any new form of terrorist hold the second session of the Conference in Malay- groups, and we must also clarify the great deviation in sia. ideas and methods in order to protect the Islamic soci- eties in ASEAN from their dangers, which are commit- Conference Outcomes: ted to the centrality of Islam by rejecting all forms of The participants in the conference denounce the crimi- accusation, extremism, Directed to Islam by the media nal act that took place at Al-Rawda Mosque in Sinai in and others. the Arab Republic of Egypt, which claimed the lives He also mentioned that it is important to remember of more than 300 worshipers. They affirm that this dis- that our success will also depend on our strength, unity, graceful act is a criminal act, which cannot be justified and brotherhood in the coming years. The biggest chal- under any pretext, and that they condemn and denounce lenge is to overcome the perception of many in relation it. His executors are firmly and forcefully. The perpe- to the curriculum of Ahl Al-Sunnah Wa Al-Jamaah by trators must be dealt with firmly and forcefully. providing them with the true knowledge of Islam and The participants declare their solidarity with their educating them for a clear and better understanding Rohingya Muslim brothers against hostile practices, of the Ummah, stressing that this conference is very killings, forced displacement and racial discrimina- important for ASEAN society as a platform for brain- tion. They call on the international community to take storming among scholars, academics, and thinkers. decisive and immediate measures to protect them and He concluded by saying that the Malaysian gov- call upon the Organization of Islamic Cooperation ernment supports any effort to build Khayr Ummah, a (OIC) and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations better Ummah, and avoid extremism. Khayr Ummah (ASIAN) to do what is necessary to resolve this crisis. conference is the government’s main agenda for build- ing the Ummatan Wasatan according to the Qur’an and Recommendations: Sunnah according to understand of the companions At the end of the conference, the participants announced and scholars of the righteous salaf and their followers. the most important recommendations: As well as establish relations between ASEAN and the 1. The importance of holding such scientific conferenc- Arab countries, paving the way for strengthening ties es in Malaysia and other ASEAN countries because

l l 38 Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 6. Human rights should be considered. Respect for relevant international covenants and treaties, and good dealing with non-Muslims. The Conference We need to clarify the also emphasizes the maximization of the greatness reality of the Islamic of Islamic Shari’ah from the five necessities of re- ligion, soul, mind, money and the honor, and the religion and its correct consequent preservation of nationals and public and private property. way, and we also need to 7. The need to confront the plans and hostilities that aim highlight the virtue of to divide the people of Ahl Al-Sunnah Wal Jamaah through sectarian and political differences, and be- this nation ware of the various methods pursued by the deviant sects and extremist and terrorist groups to seduce sympathizers and ignorance and recruit them for sectarian interests and bloodshed and sanctity. they have a significant impact on enhancing com- 8. The importance of spreading the science of Shari’ah munication, exchange of experiences, research in according to the Qur’an and Sunnah, activating the solutions to dilemmas and developments and chal- jurisprudential councils, and the Fatwa departments lenges facing Muslims in order to consolidate the to achieve a conscious understanding of Islam and approach of Wasatiyyah and moderation and con- the hoped-for Wasatiyyah by keeping up with the front the threats of security and stability, warning of latest developments of the times, with the impor- extremism, sectarianism, sedition, and difference. tance of respecting the jurisprudential doctrines 2. Emphasizing the importance of Muslims’ ownership considered by the Ahl Al-Sunnah Wa Al-Jama’a and of the causes of force to confront the multiple threats their followers in their countries and to spread the to the Islamic world. Among the most important spirit of brotherhood among them. factors of strength are adherence to the Qur’an and 9. The participants appreciate the generous initiative to Sunnah, uniting the Ummah, spreading knowledge establish the King Salman Center for World Peace and strengthening cooperation among Muslims on in Malaysia and to support it with all that it needs righteousness and piety. materially and morally to achieve the great goals for 3. The importance of spreading tolerance and the cul- which it was founded. ture of managing the difference between Muslims in 10. The participants welcome the initiative of the general, and Ahl Al-Sunnah Wa Al-Jamaah in par- University of Technology (MAARA), Malaysia to ticular, and respect for the doctrines of the Muslims, establish a strategic research center to achieve (the and the imams, including the four imams, may Al- best nation) and its desire to cooperate with the lah have mercy upon them. Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Da’wah and Guidance 4. The importance of spreading the culture of construc- in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. tive dialogue and peaceful coexistence with non- 11. The importance of cooperation between the parties Muslims citizens and residents, and the commitment concerned with the service of the Prophetic Sun- of wisdom and good advice, and that the truth of Is- nah and the Prophet’s Hadith, including the King lam is the surrender of the heart based on conviction Salman Mosque for the Prophetic Hadith and the and acceptance, not coercion, as the Almighty said: National Modernization Committee of Malaysia, “There is no compulsion in religion.” established by His Excellency Deputy Prime Minis- 5. To emphasize that extremism, terrorism, and violence ter Dato ‘Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. are a global phenomenon that cannot be linked to 12. The importance of intensive communication and religion, religion or country, and the need to com- mutual visits between the authorities and research- bat terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, and ers participating in this conference from the ASE- to counter the ideological and religious extremism AN countries for the work of various programs to that leads to it. The cooperation to protect Muslim achieve the Ummah’s charity. youth from misguided suspicions and deviant ideas May Allah bless and bless our Prophet Muhammad in various media, especially in social media. and his family and companions.

l Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 l 39 OIC-IPHRC calls for ending long standing Israeli occupation of Palestine

Jeddah (OIC-UNA) - The OIC Independent Permanent During its recently concluded 12th Regular Session Human Rights Commission (IPHRC) joins the interna- (19-23 November), IPHRC extensively discussed the tional community in observing the ‘International Day current situation in Palestine and expressed grave con- of Solidarity with the Palestinian people 2017’. On this cerns on the deteriorating human rights situation due occasion, the commission underlined the importance to continued and increased violence at the hands of the and urgency of ending the Israeli occupation of Pales- Israeli occupation forces, resulting in extra judicial ex- tine, which is the root cause of all systematic violations ecutions, home demolitions and other systematic vio- of their basic human rights, including the fundamental lations against innocent Palestinians, including women rights of life, worship and freedom of movement. and children. While the world observes this important day, Gaza IPHRC warned against continued Israeli attempts is still under blockade, and 61 percent of West Bank to undermine the sociocultural diversity of occupied is under total occupation and marred by Israeli illegal Jerusalem, by transforming its physical and demo- settlements. graphic landscape to enhance its Jewish character at

l l 40 Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 the expense of its Muslim and Christian identity. The Commission stressed the identity of Al-Aqsa Mosque as a uniquely Islamic holy site and recalled all the UNESCO decisions on the Old City of Al-Quds and its Walls, which deny any Israeli sovereignty over Al-Quds; squarely condemn the excavations being car- ried out by Israel in the occupied city; and declares as illegal any changes caused by the Israeli occupation in Al-Quds and its environs. Based on these well-estab- lished pronouncements, the Commission reiterated the absurdity and null and void character of all the illegal texts approved by the Israeli Knesset to unify Al-Quds approval of the draft resolutions approved in the UNGA as the capital of Israel. fourth committee (Special Political and Decoloniza- To this end, the Commission also condemned the tion) earlier this month, reflecting international -con repeated closures of Al-Aqsa Mosque and affirmed that sensus on the illegality of Israeli settlement activities, this act was in contravention of relevant international and the importance of the United Nations Relief and law instruments including the fourth Geneva conven- Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East tions, with the potential to inflame the religious senti- (UNRWA). In order to overcome severe funding short- ments of not just Palestinians but Muslims all over the falls, IPHRC called upon all Member States to explore world. ways and means to ensure sufficient and predictable Referring to the latest report on “the legal frame- funding for UNRWA mandate. IPHRC also welcomed work of occupation”, presented by Special Rapporteur the recent reconciliation agreement between differ- for Human Rights Situation in the occupied Palestin- ent Palestinian groups and stressed the importance of ian territories Michael Lynk, on 15th November to the unity between Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza UNGA Committee on the Inalienable Rights of the as crucial to strengthening the struggle of Palestinian Palestinian People, which clearly proves that Israel, people against Israeli occupation. the occupying power, was in clear breach of its interna- IPHRC reiterated its call on the international com- tional human rights and humanitarian obligations, the munity, particularly the UN security council, general Commission urged the international community to use assembly and human rights council as well as the Quar- all appropriate means to force the Israeli Occupation tet to assume their responsibility and to put an end to Authorities to end its severe human rights violations. the repeated, serious and systematic Israeli violations As stated by Lynk, “criticism without consequences is against people, land and sacred places in Occupied a recipe for drift and inaction.” All stakeholders must, Palestinian Territory. In order to have a comprehensive therefore, intensify efforts and seek an advisory opin- picture of the ongoing state of human rights violations, ion from the international court of justice, on how to the Commission is discussing to undergo another visit stop and hold Israel accountable for the range of hu- to Palestine (both West Bank and Gaza) and to pres- man rights violations, many of which, including extra ent a factual report to the next OIC council of foreign judicial killings, etc. are considered war crimes. ministers. IPHRC regretted the inaction of the UN security The Commission also urged members states to join council to act despite all recent developments, which the ongoing movement of boycott, disvestment, and indicate that the humanitarian, socioeconomic and se- sanctions on products coming from Israeli settlements. curity conditions in all occupied Palestinian territories It also called OIC member states to take lead in provid- continue to worsen under Israel’s blatant disregard of ing political, economic, and diplomatic support, at all International human rights and humanitarian laws. IP- levels, to the Palestinian people in their struggle to ex- HRC also expressed its disappointment on the recent ercise their inalienable right to self-determination for celebrations held by Britain at the occasion of 100 the establishment of their own independent, viable and years after Balfour promise was issued and fully en- contiguous state, with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital dorsed the OIC council of foreign ministers’ resolution including their unquestionable right to return to their against the Balfour promise celebrations. homes and property, as decided in various UN resolu- On the other hand, the Commission welcomed the tions, and guaranteed by international law.

l Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 l 41 An Islamic Perspective on Media and Society

Dr. Osman Abu Zaid

(The following is a speech that I delivered at a seminar on ‘An Islamic Perspective on Media and Society’, which was held at the Syarif Hiday- atullah State Islamic University, Jakarta, Indonesia.)

l l 42 Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 THREE years ago, we observed the 100th year of Media on “Impact of New Media & Communication the advent of a great scholar, His Eminence Sheikh Technology on Islamic Media: Opportunities & Chal- Ahmad Sorkati, in the land of Indonesia. lenges”. Sorkati — my compatriot — traveled on foot from We listened attentively to the inaugural but elo- his remote, but a quiet and small, village in the north- quent speech of H.E. Dr. Podeuono, Vice President ern region of Sudan to its eastern seaport of Sawakin of the Republic, in which he highlighted several posi- port city lying on the Red Sea coast. tive aspects of the new media, the topmost of which From there he headed for the holy city of Mak- was the empowerment of civil society, expansion of kah and remained there for almost 15 years receiving freedom of expression, including freedom of giving education on religion and Islamic history and general advice and directing constructive criticism to govern- knowledge. ments. Later, he went to Jakarta — a strikingly beautiful Let me quote verbatim what His Excellency said, city — where he initiated a movement for guidance, as this is important: “As you may be aware, Indone- reformation, education, and Dawah work all through sians are avid users of social networking media. In- the vast and scattered islands of Indonesia for the rest donesians now form the world’s second largest users of his life. of Facebook and Twitter after the United States of I sincerely wish I also followed the footprint of America. Through Facebook status and chats, pithy the pious sheikh. I am fortunate that I came to Jakar- tweets and blogs, more and more of our citizens now ta twice last year and now this year to participate in play increasingly active roles in fighting corruption, the 2nd International Islamic Conference on Islamic pushing for law enforcement, bureaucratic reforms, Media, which was organized last year by the Muslim safeguarding the process of democracy and general World League in conjunction with the Ministry of Re- elections as well as ensuring good governance. With ligious Affairs in the Republic of Indonesia. new media, we are unmistakably moving towards the This year I am here to participate in the delibera- open government. Social networking media can any- tions of the 3rd Conference. where promote online business, enhance fundraising It is a great opportunity for me to meet you all for the poor, and bring together donors of rare blood- at this prestigious Syarif Hidayatullah State Islamic types and so on. From the perspective of religions, University. social networking media provide room for the estab- First of all, I am extremely glad to extend my pro- lishment of new religious authorities. The flip side is found gratitude to H.E. Prof. Dr. Ezi Amardi, dean that it may create fragmentation in religious authority. of Postgraduate Studies College, and to his dedicated Islamic scholars, thinkers, and Muslim parents need staff for their kind invitation. to pay attention to the possible negative impacts of I am also indebted to my Sudanese community social networking media, especially on our youth and here in Jakarta for organizing this symposium. children, the hopes of future generations”. While selecting the theme of this seminar that is The challenge that we confront today in the de- ‘Media & Islam—Problems & Solutions’ I understand velopment of mass media is to explore, cultivate and you wish to tackle relations between media and Islam upgrade individual capabilities. from the only angle of problems and challenges. Besides, we also need to create a congenial so- This attitude is acceptable from a methodology cial environment if we have to achieve any space in point of view as it seems that you follow in your ac- the world of information technology and knowledge tion the method adopted by Huzaifa (may Allah be community. pleased with him) — the illustrious Companion of the The changes that are taking place in media tech- Prophet, who once said, “People used to ask the Holy nology globally are set to produce negative results in Prophet about the good deeds but I used to ask him the matters of culture, thoughts, and persuasions, and about the bad deeds or evil, fearing that I might com- which will be reflected on the type of life and daily mit them”. practice of each individual. You are aware of the significance of media in this You may notice such a changing attitude in the age and the opportunities and challenges. youths today — their tastes in art, for instance, have This is exactly what we did two years back when turned to foreign singing and music. we held the 2nd International Conference of Islamic When it comes to supporting a football team, we

l Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 l 43 find that our youths are more- in terested in the performance of the players of the European football teams than their own local and na- tional teams. The most significant change we find in their general be- havior, their cultural views and in the values and norms. There are certain dangers that can reach the level of social se- curity threats such as the spread of drugs and alcohol, sexual pro- miscuity and dissemination of the thought of the terrorist groups and those who uphold the principle of charging people with disbelief. The means of social network- ing have become a dominant fea- ture of today’s society. the TV screen. Once I wrote on the subject and Gone are the days of laying described in details people’s pre- down the table or stretching on Under the occupation with such means the ground a rough folding carpet I said: “When it is time for the that used to gather at least twice a framework meal at our modern houses, you day the members of the family at of the new can watch the members of the fam- an intimate meeting to take their ily taking their meal separately. meal together. No longer are the media means, You can see the 15-year-old boy chatting days we used to spend holding tenaciously the stick that under the very bright light of the the cultural moves the board of visual plays moon. To no return at all, have relations are while rapidly inaugurating a mor- gone the fascinatingly attractive sel between an electronic flash imaginative stories of grandmoth- no longer and the other. Besides him sits the ers, which used to fill our soul as founded on 20-year-old girl deeply and firmly well as our mind with due warmth cradling her laptop on her lap nav- and emotion, such as the Arabic hegemony igating the other worlds and sites stories of the brave robust intelli- that interest her most. Her little gent hero Hassan and his terribly and subjuga- 4-year-old sister requests you to beautiful sister, Fatima, which we tion read for her the story of the girl, have replaced now with the im- Barbi, that ornamented herself to ages of (Mario), the hero of visual go out with her friend to attend a plays video which transmit a an changed into mere sites for park- birthday party after receiving a gift astonishingly unique message that ing cars in symmetric rows. from him which was a small dog. read “Kill your adversary, other he This world, whose main strings You can also spot a small boy who will kill you. You are alone in this are linked to optic fibers networks is holding his cell phone and his world and depend upon no one ex- makes us near neighbors with peo- hands never cease to play with it”. cept yourself”. ple living on sites that are far from The remaining members of the We accept this bitter fact or us a thousand miles away whereas family are in the living room. De- not, but our old world is vanishing the nearby neighbor is unknown to spite the fact that they sit together, fast. Our homes have virtually be- us and that we do not even speak we find they never speak to each come hotels and that our roads lose to him. other, because they are attached to their natural significance and have Do our homes, streets and an-

l l 44 Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 mobiles (cell phones) and “remote control” systems. The cultural challenge in inter- national conflicts in term of new fashions, haircuts and food types may seem less dangerous when compared with the suspicions and ridiculing of religions and creeds which have now become common practice, as well as the alarming widespread wave of atheism and abandoning of people of the reli- gions they brought up according to it. In fact, it is a single battle, and that the cultural and ideological infiltration is seen as nothing but a preliminary effort for the direct military invasion. scientific theories indicate that The world has been exposed Do our homes, children mind commence develop- from time to time rapid and sudden ing at the pre-kindergarten stage, fluctuations that are similar to cy- streets and an- at which begins the instigation of clones that cover the whole parts mind for assimilation of informa- of the world with a single rate be- other thing we tion. Furthermore, experts under- cause the means that carry them possess change line the significance of this stage, are the same; from birds influenza especially in relation to the devel- to swine influenza, to the interna- alone, or does opment the child’s social abilities tional financial crisis etc. even man him- and comprehension of ethical prin- Burhan Ghulyoun says, “ The ciples. If he lacks such matters, western culture grows and prospers self change in his thinking will be confined only at the expense of the marginalized to himself and not to others. Our cultures that attempt to address terms of his children spend most part of this this situation by becoming part of thinking, per- stage of age in exposure to foreign the movement of new history, and cartoon films and entertainment not to remain isolated from greater ception, and films. changes similar to the incidence of No society is devoid of such Arabic culture when it interacted culture? impacts, which are attributed to with the western civilization at the the cultural dominance, imposition beginning and consequent surren- other thing we possess change of advanced countries for their me- der to inability and imitation of the alone, or does even a human him- dia control with a view to serving conqueror colonizer in his motto, self change in terms of his think- their interests and those of their re- attire, customs and other condi- ing, perception, and culture? gimes. We are politically exposed tions”. The latest health theories that to a type of neo-colonization. After Certain people explain this situ- I have been following since a few we saw the colonizing countries ation by saying, “Under the frame- days, discuss that if a child remains exited the colonized ones from the work of the new media means, the for long hours in front of the TV, main gate, we see them coming cultural relations are no longer this will lead to the sluggishness of to us from the window via highly founded on hegemony and subju- his ability to accept the others and indispensable sophisticated equip- gation; and the vivid example is to be in harmony with them. Other ment, which is represented in the that UNESCO gives good tiding

l Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 l 45 of promotion of “ cultural Dignity” in its project of cultural convergence. They may further think that the technological development in media is a neutral one which embodies no conspiracy for vacuuming the cultural currents of their contents and elements but it does not only intend to promote and complement these elements but to preserve them as well, provided that such elements are healthy and safe.” Furthermore, it may be said that under these new media means the competition field is no longer con- fined only to advanced communities but it expands to comprise all communities which can now be able to play the game the superpower and may even over- come them if they better use effectively this equip- ment in this world. Let us assume for the sake of argument that the new mass media is a force in the interest of all and serves to equally secure knowledge to all so that no one can be able to monopoly knowledge for himself. This indicates that we can all complement each other by free interaction and exchange of information and knowledge in order to enjoy the fruits of collective intelligence. Irrespective of the great aura of glory that sur- rounds the contemporary technological advancement, in politics, economy and thinking techniques. announcing its capabilities in improving the world Is there truth for what we say regarding such acute dialogue and communication among people, we con- and political dichotomy we, unfortunately, a witness spicuously remark the impact of interactive nature inside our countries and in many neighboring ones of these means. Additionally, we find that this nature (countries)? gives the opportunity for the assimilation of the cul- Thus, media and knowledge — a twin force to tural and social diversity at a type of the collective cultivate individual ability and a mean for social ad- meaning industry and consequent similarity of think- vancement — may, however, turn harmful and be- ing methods. In fact, there is a noticeable change that come a means of destruction, exploitation, and mo- largely affects the way of thinking and works in the nopoly, if not restrained or checked. fields of management, education, law, politics and This is, in a nutshell, diagnosing the problems and even military activity. Furthermore, the world seeks challenges facing the Muslim community; and also to stereotype thoughts towards religion, customs, and what practical and viable solutions could there be. traditions. The recommendations adopted by the 3rd Inter- Many examples can be quoted in this regard. These national Conference for Islamic Media emphasized include the prevalent spirit that is deeply rooted in our some significant aspects that offered a roadmap to the local culture in most Muslim countries and tends to Muslim empowerment in world media. occupy itself with problems that are not created from It is worthwhile here to quote briefly from the res- our own nature but from the problems that are im- olutions that were unanimously passed in the Jakarta posed on society with the unavoidable drive of the conference: dominant international culture. Likewise, groups may - To observe mutual relations between media and face disturbing obstacles in building their independent society, consider mass media as partner institu- thought that can effectively solve such problems that tions in society and work in complementarity with are due to the unfortunate and acute dichotomy in the other institutions and have a joined responsibility, cultural values between those who want genuine so- which requires the coordination and integration of lutions and those who want to follow suit of the west efforts.

l l 46 Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 with a view to exchanging thoughts, experiments and experiences. - Highlight the social role of the various mass me- Highlight the social role dia, which is represented in projecting the social schemes that are undertaken by civil society or- of the various mass me- ganizations, and encourage individuals in Muslim dia, which is represented countries and communities to give greater atten- tion to social schemes. in projecting the social - To disseminate media education and awakening schemes that are under- among society members; approve the teaching of media education subject or course at schools taken by civil society or- and universities and develop it according to study stage and age bracket, establish centers and sup- ganizations, and encour- port institutions for the provision of required age individuals in Muslim training and assistance to the pioneering project as the media education is considered to have a sub- countries and communi- stantial contribution to the formation education of ties to give greater atten- a generation that observe its values and is aware of the problems of electronic media, especially in tion to social schemes. regards to a security question, privacy and infor- matics crimes. - To draw the attention to the numerous great chal- lenges which the Muslim communities confront in media; and the Conference recommends the - To reject simulation and imitation for media practice individuals of Muslim minorities to give due at- models at non-Islamic regimes as such models are tention to their role in media so that they can have considered unsuitable for neither the environments their influence in the countries in which they and nor the countries that witness political change or communicate with their respective citizens for the suffer from internal or regional disputes; and call presentation of the principles of the Islamic reli- for the application of the peace press model which gion which was revealed by Allah Almighty for is considered appropriate for Muslim communi- all mankind. ties that witness religious, ethnic or political con- - To call upon the Islamic organizations to encour- flicts or at which happened tremendous changes age communication among their members, pro- as a result of the political movement at the recent mote the spirit of introduction and dialogue via period. utilization of the opportunities of (interlocking) - To elevate the role of religious, social and vocation- and interaction, exchange of information via so- al values in media performance so as to contribute cial networking, particularly among Muslim youth in the enhancement of the culture of dialogue and who are close, practically and effectively linked to Shoura as well as the establishment of a political these networks. movement founded on transparency and disclo- These practical and viable solutions have been pre- sure of facts as well as standing to corruption and sented in fact as a result of impregnation of thoughts excessiveness, and exploitation of influence and among media students, specialists, experts and offi- power. cials who met in the city of Jakarta to ponder over - To reaffirm the significance and promotion of Dawah the problems of communication and media; and institutions that continuously need improvement who called for further media cooperation and for the regarding content, style and reproduction of their exchange of programs, experiences and studies as materials; and require the organization of periodi- well as the conduct of joint symposiums and estab- cal meetings for meetings for those in charge at lishment of training centers as well as increase ren- the level of countries, continents and world so as dering financial support to these activities in a manner to achieve effective communication among them that serves media march in the Muslim world.

l Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 l 47 Palestine Expo: Biggest Palestine Event in Europe Palestine is Still the Issue, says John Pilger

Dr. Mozammel Haque

“Palestine is still the issue,” said John Pilger, an award-winning journalist and documentary film-maker, having won an Emmy and a BAFTA for his films. Pilger said, “When I first went to Palestine as a young reporter in the 1960s, I stayed on a kibbutz. The people I met were hard-working, spirited and called themselves socialists. I liked them. One evening at dinner, I asked about the silhouettes of people in the far distance, beyond our perimeter. “Ar- abs”, they said, “nomads”. The words were almost spat out. Israel, they said, meaning Palestine, had been mostly wasteland and one of the great feats of the Zionist enterprise was to turn the desert green. They gave as an example their crop of Jaffa oranges, which was exported to the rest of the world. What a triumph against the odds of nature and humanity’s neglect.”

l l 48 Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 “It was the first lie. Most of the orange groves and vine- London which has four floors. On the first day, Sat- yards belonged to Palestinians who had been tilling urday, the 8th of July, 2017, in the Churchill Room the soil and exporting oranges and grapes to Europe at the Ground Floor, there were six panels such as since the eighteenth century. The former Palestinian Panel one was on From Balfour to Apartheid under town of Jaffa was known by its previous inhabitants the chairmanship of Hugh Lanning; the speakers were as “the place of sad oranges,” John Pilger said at the Virgina Tilley, Mariam Barghouti, Ben Jamal, Ghada Two-Day Palestine Expo, held at Queen Elizabeth II Karmi. Panel Two was on Why is Palestine still the Conference Hall, London, on Saturday and Sunday, issue? The speaker was Ilan Pape. Panel Three was 8th and 9th July 2017 respectively. on Palestine is Still the issue; the speaker was John I met journalist John Pilger, who was awarded, Pilger. Panel Four was on 50 years of occupation; the in 2003, the prestigious Sophie Prize for ’30 years of speakers were Mike Peled, Mariam Barghouti and exposing injustice and promoting human rights’ and Iyad Burnat. Panel Five was on Democratic Engage- in 2009, was awarded the Sydney Peace Prize, at the ment and Justice for Palestinians; the speakers were Palestine Expo, the biggest Palestine event in Europe, Tariq Ramadan and Andy Slaughter MP. held at Queen Elizabeth II Centre, London, where he On the same day, Saturday, 8th of July 2017, in was speaking at the third session on the subject – Pal- the Abbey Room at 4th Floor, there were four Panels estine is still the issue. – Panel One was on Make Music Work for Palestine; Before I narrate what he said, I would like to talk the speakers were Maya Khaldi, Wissam Boustany, about Palestine Expo and the proceedings of the two- Lucie Caswell and Ruth Daniel. Panel Two was on day event. intersection of Disadvantage Faced by Palestinian Refugees: What is the Role of Humanitarian Agen- Welcome to Palestine Expo cies; the speakers were Anani Kibrit, Mohammad Ismail Patel, Chair of Friends of Al-Aqsa welcomed to Ataweel, Annie Shalan and Olga Cera. Panel Three Palestine Expo by saying: “This year marks a signifi- was on Breaking Taboos – What Israel does not want cant point in the history of Palestine and Palestinians. you to hear; the speakers were Jonathan Rosenhead 2017 marks the centenary of the Balfour Declaration, and Noami Wimborne-Idrissi and Panel Four was 50 years of the occupation of Masjid Al-Aqsa and 10 on Artists Speak Out for Boycott, the speakers were years of the Gaza blockade. Through the passage of Mojisola Adebayo, David Calder, Taghrid Choucair- time, and the irreversible damage caused by the Israeli Vizoso and Rachel Holmes. occupation of Palestine, the Free Palestine Movement On the same day, Saturday, 8th of July 2017, in remains at the centre of political debate around the the Westminster Room at 4th Floor, there were four globe. This is also echoed in Britain, where millions Panels: Panel One was on The Origins of Zionism are becoming aware of the on-going Israeli aggres- chaired by Sayed Al-Kadiri; the speakers were Miko sions, and a cycle of violence which has ensued.” Peled and Sai Englert. Panel Two was on Palestine He also said, “This year is also significant to Activism: Student Momentum; the speakers were Friends of Al-Aqsa as we mark our 20th anniversary. Malia Bouttia and Malaka Muhammad. Panel Three Over the years, we have been involved in campaigns, was on Palestine and the Student Movement (FAQ’s), awareness events and political lobbying to bring at- the speaker was Abdulaziz Sulaiman. Panel Four was tention to the daily sufferings of Palestinian life under on Activism: How? The speaker was Ilyas Nagdee. occupation. We are indebted to all those who have On the same day, Saturday, 8th of July 2017, in the supported us and assisted in bringing attention to this St. James Room, at 4th Floor, there were four Panels, important human rights issue. However, despite our Panel One was on Film: 5 Broken Cameras followed united efforts, the occupation of Palestinian territories by Questions and Answers. Panel Two was on Three continues and with it, the violation of the rights of the 10 min Films: 1/Oceans of Injustice; 2/ Nightmare in Palestinian people.” Gaza, 3/Today They Took My son: followed by Ques- tions and Answers. Panel Three was on Palestine – Proceedings of the Palestine Expo The Story Behind the Media Headlines; the speakers First Day Saturday 8th of July 2017 were Farah Nabulsi, Rawan Damen, Emad Burnat There were so many panels simultaneously running and Khaled Jarrar. Panel Four was on Film: Balfour in different floors of the Queen Elizabeth II Centre, followed by Questions and Answers.

l Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 l 49 MOORE 4th Floor. Panel One was on 50 shades of Occupation; speakers were Ronie Barkan; Yvonne Ridley, Soheir Assaad and Inas Abbad. Panel Two was on 100 years of Balfour: Britain’s Legacy in Palestine; speakers were Tariq Ramadan and Lina Hadid, Panel Three was on Importance of Solidarity and Action; the speakers were Lindsey German, Ben Jamal, Ismail Patel and Adeeb Ziadh. Panel Four was on What Do FOA Do? The speakers were FOA Vol- unteers.

Second Day, 9th July, 2017 Room Abbey, 4th Floor, Panel One was on Why Jews for Justice for Palestinians? Speakers were Judith Cravitz, Glyn Sacker and Arthur Goodman. Panel Two was on Brokering Occupation: United King- dom and United States; Speakers were David Miller, Sarah Marouk and Asa Winstanley. Panel Three was on Jerusalen – Securing its Freedom to the Three Faiths; speakers were Chris Rose and Shaykh Ebra- him Bham. Panel Four was on Women of Occupa- tion; the speakers were Dr. Inas Abbad, Dalal Lafi, Rihab Abeideyeh and Hayat Amous Sughaier. Panel dered Dimension of Islamophobia and the speaker Five was on Hundred Years After Balfour: The Role was Amina Easat Daas. of British Parliament and the speakers were Tommy Sheppard and Paula Sherriff. John Pilger In Room Westminster at 4th Floor, there were Speaking about colonised world and the true sover- three Panels, Panel One was on Palestine and the eignty of the indigenous people, Pilger said: “All over Student Movement (FAO’s) and the speaker was Ben the colonised world, the true sovereignty of indige- White. Panel Two was on Gaza: 10 Years of Israeli nous people is feared by those who can never quite Siege and the speakers were Malaka Mohammed, So- cover the fact, and the crime, that they live on sto- heir Asad and Mariam Barghouti. Panel Three was on len land. Denying people’s humanity is the next step Student and Campus Activism and the speakers were - as the Jewish people know only too well. Defiling students and campus activities, Ilyas Nagdee. people’s dignity and culture and pride follows as logi- In St. James Room, There were two Panels; Pan- cally as violence.” el One was on Music and Film as a tool of politi- “In Ramallah, following an invasion of the West cal Expression and the speaker was David Randall. Bank by the late Ariel Sharon in 2002, I walked Panel Two was on Social Media: The Power of Social through streets of crushed cars and demolished hous- Movements and the speakers were Farah Azam and es, to the Palestinian Cultural Centre. Until that morn- Ashley Chin. ing, Israeli soldiers had camped there. I was met by In MOORE 4th Floor, There were five Panels. the centre’s director, the novelist, Liana Badr, whose Panel One was on Islamophobia, anti-Semitism and original manuscripts lay scattered and torn across Colonialism/Racism and the speaker was Salman the floor. The hard-drive containing her fiction, and Sayyid. Panel Two was on Colonial Fabrications: a library of plays and poetry had been taken by Is- Palestine and the Arab-Jewish “Eternal Enmity” raeli soldiers. Almost everything was smashed, and Revisited and the speaker was Santiago Slabodsky. defiled. Not a single book survived with all its pages; Panel Three was on Palestine: It is something colonial not a single master tape from one of the best collec- and the speaker was Hatem Bazian. Panel Four was tions of Palestinian cinema,” he mentioned. on The Zanj and the Decolonial imagination and the speaker was Tajul Islam. Panel Five was on The Gen- Victim’s refusal to comply

l l 50 Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 States. The BBC notion of objectivity - amplifying the myths and lies of authority, a practice of which it is proud - is shamed every day by the likes of Mu- hammad Omer.”

Palestinians who refused to comply Pilger mentioned about those who have stood up to this, without weapons, those who have refused to comply, are among Palestinians he has been privi- leged to come across and know. He mentioned, “My friend, the late Mohammed Jarella, who toiled for the United Nations agency UNRWA, in 1967 showed me a Palestinian refugee camp for the first time. It was a bitter winter’s day and schoolchildren shook with the cold. “One day ...” he would say. “One day ...” Pilger also mentioned about Mustafa Barghouti. He said, “Mustafa Barghouti, whose eloquence re- mains undimmed, who described the tolerance that existed in Palestine among Jews, Muslims and Chris- tians until, as he told me, “the Zionists wanted a state at the expense of the Palestinians.” He also mentioned about Dr. Mona Al-Farra. “Dr. Speaking about the oppressor’s occupation and col- Mona Al-Farra, a physician in Gaza, whose passion onisation and the victims’ refusal to comply, Pilger was raising money for plastic surgery for children mentioned, “The soldiers had urinated and defecated disfigured by Israeli bullets and shrapnel. Her hospi- on the floors, on desks, on embroideries and works of tal was flattened by Israeli bombs in 2014. Dr. Khaled art. They had smeared faeces on children’s paintings Dahlan, a psychiatrist, whose clinics for children in and written - in shit - “Born to kill”. Liana Badr had Gaza - children sent almost mad by Israeli violence - tears in her eyes, but she was unbowed. She said, “We were oases of civilization.” will make it right again.” What enrages those who colonise and occupy, steal and oppress, vandalise and Stories of Fatima and Nasser defile is the victims’ refusal to comply. And this is Pilger specially mentioned about the pathetic story of the tribute we all should pay the Palestinians. They Fatima and Nasser. He said, “Fatima and Nasser are a refuse to comply. They go on. They wait - until they couple whose home stood in a village near Jerusalem fight again. And they do so even when those govern- designated “Zone A and B”, meaning that the land ing them collaborate with their oppressors.” was declared for Jews only. Their parents had lived there; their grandparents had lived there. Today, the 2014 Israeli Bombardment of Gaza bulldozers are laying roads for Jews only, protected Speaking about the 2014 Israeli bombardment of by laws for Jews only.” Gaza and Muhammad Omar’s reporting, Pilger men- “It was past midnight when Fatima went into la- tioned, “In the midst of the 2014 Israeli bombardment bour with their second child. The baby was prema- of Gaza, the Palestinian journalist Muhammad Omar ture; and when they arrived at a checkpoint with the never stopped reporting. He and his family were hospital in view, the young Israeli soldier said they stricken; he queued for food and water and carried needed another document. Fatima was bleeding bad- it through the rubble. When I phoned him, I could ly. The soldier laughed and imitated her moans and hear the bombs outside his door. He refused to com- told them, “Go home”. The baby was born there in a ply. Muhammad’s reports, illustrated by his graphic truck. It was blue with cold and soon, without care, photographs, were a model of professional journal- died from exposure. The baby’s name was Sultan,” ism that shamed the compliant and craven reporting he mentioned. of the so-called mainstream in Britain and the United Pilger, who was awarded in 2003 the prestigious

l Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 l 51 Sophie Prize for ’30 years of exposing injustice and Speaking about European Union and the UN Com- promoting human rights’ said and enquired, “For Pal- mission, Pilger said, “Mark the silence of the Europe- estinians, these will be familiar stories. The question an Union, which accommodates Israel while refusing is: why are they not familiar in London and Washing- to maintain its commitments to the people of Gaza - ton, Brussels and Sydney?” such as keeping the lifeline of the Rafah border cross- ing open: a measure it agreed to as part of its role in Palestine the greatest moral issue of the cessation of fighting in 2014. A seaport for Gaza Our time – Nelson Mandela - agreed by Brussels in 2014 - has been abandoned. Pilger enquired why “the longest occupation and re- “The UN commission I have referred to - its full sistance in modern times is not recognized. When the name is the UN Economic and Social Commission United Nations suddenly stirs and defines Israel as for Western Asia - described Israel as, and I quote, an apartheid state, as it did this year, there is outrage “designed for the core purpose” of racial discrimina- - not against a state whose “core purpose” is racism tion. Millions understand this. What the governments but against a UN commission that dared break the in London, Washington, Brussels and Tel Aviv can- silence,” he mentioned and quoted Nelson Mandela: not control is that humanity at street level is changing “Palestine,” said Nelson Mandela, “is the greatest perhaps as never before,” Pilger mentioned. moral issue of our time.” Why is this truth suppressed, day after day, month after month, year after year?” Our Freedom is incomplete without “In Israel - the apartheid state, guilty of a crime The freedom of Palestine - Mandela against humanity and of more international law- Speaking about the young people’s awareness and breaking than any other - the silence persists among rejection of colonialism, Pilger again quoted Nelson those who know and whose job it is to keep the record Mandela. He said, “Among young people, interna- straight,” he mentioned. tionalism has found a vast new audience. Look at the There is an epic injustice support for Jeremy Corbyn and the reception the G20 Journalist and film-maker Pilger mentioned, “There circus in Hamburg received. By understanding the is no conflict, no two narratives, with their moral ful- truth and imperatives of internationalism, and reject- crum. There is a military occupation enforced by a ing colonialism, we understand the struggle of Pales- nuclear-armed power backed by the greatest military tine.” power on earth; and there is an epic injustice. The “Mandela put it this way: “We know only too word “occupation” may be banned, deleted from the well that our freedom is incomplete without the free- dictionary. But the memory of historical truth cannot dom of the Palestinians.” At the heart of the Middle be banned: of the systemic expulsion of Palestinians East is the historic injustice in Palestine. Until that from their homeland. “Plan D” the Israelis called it is resolved, and Palestinians have their freedom and in 1948.” homeland, and Israelis are Palestinians equality be- fore the law, there will be no peace in the region, or Democracy Human Rights perhaps anywhere. Speaking about democracy human rights, Pilger men- tioned, “Take a term often used by the guardians of Historic injustice in Palestine civil society - “human rights”. Like another noble Pilger said, “What Mandela was saying is that free- concept, “democracy”, “human rights” has been all dom itself is precarious while powerful governments but emptied of its meaning and purpose. Like “peace can deny justice to others, terrorise others, imprison process” and “road map”, human rights in Palestine and kill others, in our name. Israel certainly under- have been hijacked by Western governments and the stands the threat that one day it might have to be nor- corporate NGOs they fund and which claim a quix- mal.” otic moral authority. So when Israel is called upon Pilger also said, “These are not straws in the wind. by governments and NGOs to “respect human rights” When the Palestinians rise again, as they will, they in Palestine, nothing happens, because they all know may not succeed at first - but they will eventually if there is nothing to fear; nothing will change.” we understand that they are us, and we are them.” This is an abridged version of John Pilger’s ad- European Union and the UN Commission dress to the Palestinian Expo 2017 in London.

l l 52 Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 The Eternal Life of Jannah (Heaven) The Modern Science proves its eternity

Ahmad Wahaj Al-Siddiqui

Many renegades denied that how the life of the Heaven can be eternal while human life is faced with various complexities. As a matter of fact they do not know, the life of Heaven (Jannah) will be quiet different from this worldly life. To throw light what is their in Jannah, I refer to some tra- ditions of the Prophet (peace be upon him) so that the readers may know about the life of Jannah referring modern science proving its eternity. .

l Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 l 53 Allah said: And give them glad tidings (O for you dwellers kings palaces. (Al-Dur Al- Muhammad) Unto them who believe and do Manthur from Al-Khudri) good works That for them are gardens (Jannah) d) The Apostle of Allah (peace be upon him) beneath which, rivers flow The more they are en- said: The rivers of the heaven gush forth dowed with fruits. They say: That is that which from mountains of musk. (Al-Dur Al-Man- was given us afore time And shall be conferred thur from Abu Hurairah) upon with things con-similar There for them are e) With regard to the verse: ‘There for them are pure wives And they shall abide therein forever. the pure wives and they shall abide therein (Surat Al-Baqarah, Verse 25) forever’. Abu Hurairah narrated the Apostle Glad tidings are given to those who are stead- of Allah (peace be upon him) said: The fac- fast on the deeds guided by the Holy Qur’an and es of the first group who enter heaven will Sunnah of the Prophet (peace be upon him) shine like full moon. They won’t spit; won’t a) Abdullah bin Omar said: Allah’s Apostle blow nose, won’t excrete, their combs will (peace be upon him) was asked about Jan- be of gold and silver, their perfumes will be nah (the Heaven), He said: Every living who aloes wood and musk. Every one of them entered the Heaven will never die. Will be will have two wives, they will be so excel- blessed with eternal comforts, his garments ling in beauty that he will see their bone will never wear out, and his youth will never morrow through their flesh, never there will decay. When asked about its buildings he be any opposition between them and their said: They are made of a brick of gold and a heart will never have any animosity but brick of silver in mortar with odor of Musk their heart will beat together. They will glo- and its gravel are pearls and rubies and its soil rify Allah at the break od Day and fall of (smells) saffron. (Al-Tabrani/ Bin Mardawi- night (Agreed tradition). yyah) f) A man came to the Apostle of Allah (peace b) The Prophet (peace be upon him) said; The be upon him) and said O! Abu Al-Qasim you soil of the Heaven is white, its fields have say that the people of Heaven will eat and camphor rocks with sand of Musk. It has ever drink. He replied by the One who owns my flowing rivers. All the people of the Heaven, life. Every man will be given the strength of the foremost and the last ones will assemble hundred men in eating, drinking copulation for a general introduction with each other. and passion, he will feel to emaciate but the Allah will send an air of mercy smelling Jannah is free from defiling and harmful mat- musk over them, The man will go back from ter. The Apostle of Allah continued: His ema- the assembly to his wife. She will find him ciation will be through sweat smelling musk, more elegant and good looking. She will say that will be the emaciation for his belly (Al- to him, you left me adoring; now I am taken Nasai, Al-Munzir, Bin Abi Hatim) aback by your splendid grandeur. (Al-Dur g) Abu Umamah said: Aman asked the Apostle Al-Manthur from Abu Hurairah) of Allah (peace be upon him) Will the people c) The Apostle of Allah (peace be upon him) of the Heaven copulate? He said they shall said: Allah has fenced the Heaven with a copulate but there is no male or female se- brick of gold and a brick of silver and gushed men. (Al-Tabrani) forth in the rivers and planted trees. When I will discuss some facts from modern sci- the angels saw its beauty they said: Blessed ence that how the life of Jannah will be eternal

l l 54 Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 Health means to enjoy the comforts of life Arab physicians. And it is used in the treatment with a sound mind in a sound body. Disease of quite few diseases. Allah mentioned its cur- means the impairment of health or normal func- ing quality saying: tioning of an organ or the failure of an organ- Wherein is healing for mankind. (Surat Al- ism to respond adaptively to its environment. Nahil Verse 69) Now we shall see the exogenous and endoge- Moreover soil of Heaven is quite different nous causes of the diseases and go through the from soil of earth. It smells saffron, its field have Qur’an and Sunnah if they are eliminated from camphor rock and sand dunes of musk. the Heaven. All the above facts make it crystal clear that Among the exogenous causes are burn, frac- no room is left for any organism or microbes to ture or dislocation of a limb etc. The Apostle have their existence in the Heaven. of Allah (peace be upon him) said: The vigor- The change in human body in the Jannah ous in faith are for the Heaven (Jannah) Verily will be due to heavenly diet as we observe in the here is no danger whatsoever in the Heaven (Al- bee when it takes juice of flowers its emaciation Baihaqui from Usama bin Zaid is honey. A major causative agent for a large number Quite few diseases are caused due to radia- of diseases is bacteria or micro-organism. Let us tion or sever cold but Heaven is not a place for see if this if this organism is found in the Heav- radiation and severe cold. Allah said: en: It said: that several dusts that have local A similitude of the Jannah which the righ- action on respiratory tract and cause pulmo- teous are promised nary disease but the soil of heaven has no dust There are rivers of water not contaminating, of earth, it smells saffron and full of greenery. and rivers of milk Of unchanging taste, and riv- The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: A rider ers of wine delicious to the drinkers. And rivers can’t cover in Heaven a shade of tree in hun- of honey pure and clear, therein for them is ev- dred years, if you wish you recite ‘ And spread- ery kind of fruit with pardon from their Lord. ing shade’ (Al-Bukhari) The deepening shades We know scientifically that existence of bac- with flowering beauty runs hundred of miles in teria pollutes water but the Quran tells that the the Heaven. Heaven has rivers of water not contaminating . We know that Ginger is digestive and used It means there is no existence of micro-organism in the treatment of Flatulence and Colic. That is in the Heaven. Similarly we know that the taste to say that the people of Heaven will be given of milk changes due to the presence of lacteous digestive drinks. bacilli. But in the Heaven are rivers of milk of ‘And He created that, which ye do not know. unchanging taste, it indicates that the Heaven (Quran-16/8) is free from water borne, and milk borne dis- The invention of microscope in the 17th cen- eases. Further the Qur’an said that the wine in tury did make us to observe the tiny organism Heaven: ‘No aching of the head, therefrom they called microbes. get nor they will suffer any intoxication’ (Surat This denies the Jewish and Christian schol- Al-Waqi’ah Verse19) ars who claimed that the Qur’an is written by These facts negates alcoholic diseases in the Muhammad, he could never know the modern Heaven. As for honey it provides wonderful food science. Hence this is the Book of Allah Omni- and it is used as preserver of medicines among scient of all knowledge.

l Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 l 55 Can Islamic Banking become a reality in India?

Aftab Husain Kola

In 2016 the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) had available to all citizens to access banking and proposed the opening of an ‘Islamic window’ financial services. It did not further elaborate. in conventional banks to ‘gradually’ introduce Both the Central Government and RBI Sharia-compliant banking in India. It was said took some interest in 2016 exploring the pos- that Islamic finance system would lead to tril- sibility of the introduction of Islamic banking lions of dollars from Gulf nations getting in- for long to ensure financial inclusion of those vested in India. sections of the society that remain excluded But the BJP-led Union government did a due to religious reasons. The sudden change u-turn when it said in November 2017 that of mind has shattered the hope of lakhs of it has no intention to consider introducing Is- Muslims as well as non-Muslims who were lamic banking in India. looking forward to the interest-free banking. Replying to a Right To Information query, “Introduction of full-fledged Islamic bank- the RBI said the decision was taken after con- ing with profit-loss sharing complex products sidering “the wider and equal opportunities” may be considered at a later stage on the basis

l l 56 Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 of experience gained in course of time,” the RBI had both systems.” then told Finance Ministry in a letter. H Abdur Raqeeb, General Secretary of the Indian In a report submitted to the government in 2008, Center for Islamic Finance, had stated, “If Japan has an a committee headed by Raghuram Rajan (who subse- Islamic Bank, London has it, and many non-Muslim quently went on to become RBI Governor) had, with- countries have it, why not India? The World Bank has out naming Shari’ah banking, suggested the need to lauded Islamic banking for being an effective tool for have interest-free banking in India. financing development globally and that it had the po- According to Dr. Rahmatullah Ahad, Chief Promot- tential to address the problems of poverty and boost er and Hon. Managing Director of Janseva Cooperative shared prosperity. The global lender acknowledged Credit Society Ltd, “he RBI’s message in rejecting Is- that, in fact, the Islamic banking system is not only lamic banking is disturbing. It is disturbing because the about avoiding paying or receiving interest, but also message is against its own recommendation submitted about equitability, helping the economically weak and to the competent authority of the Union Government disadvantaged and giving an opportunity to small en- to permit Islamic banking windows on a selective ba- terprises by encouraging and supporting their endeav- sis in public sector banks. Remark of the 11th Finance ours through risk-sharing financing. Across the world, Commission that the National Mission of Financial the Islamic finance and banking sector is flourishing Inclusion can better be achieved through introduction with the active support of the World Bank and the of Islamic banking on account of its inherent poten- IMF.” tial for furthering the cause of socio-economic justice seems to be mother of this move. Taking cue from the Demand for Islamic banking is strong Finance Committee report, the Finance Ministry asked The experience of the past 30 years has indicated that the RBI to look into the matter for which it took help of the demand for Islamic banking is strong, but that the an inter-departmental committee to finalise and submit institutions themselves, and international cooperation its report and hence the said recommendation. among them, must be strengthened if the system is to reach its full potential. But the Indian government, rea- Decision is more political sons better known only to them, seems to believe that “The RBI’s decision seems to be more political rath- anything Islamic is not secular. er than economic. Its reasoning that the recently an- The about-turn of RBI, without offering a substan- nounced government welfare schemes leave no scope tial and financially sound logic to dropping the propos- for Islamic banking is hollow. Those welfare schemes al that would have brought in billions of dollars worth are no substitute for the banking business. Therefore, investment and remittance into the mainstream, sig- space for Islamic banking remains unfilled.” nificantly boosting India’s ailing economy, is a plain Says an expert in Islamic finance, “ The government and simple political decision, said Poulomi Ghosh in should be believe that Islamic banking and convention- an article. bal banks can complement one another’s strengths and Only a change in government at the Center might work together across national and religious boundaries revive some hope that one day Islamic banking will for the mutual benefit of institutions and individuals in become a reality in the country.

l Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 l 57 21st Century Western Scholarship on the Prophet’s Seerah: Some Positive Glimpses

Dr Tauseef Ahmad Parray

INTRODUCTION: The Noble Qur’an ten, exclusively, on the life/biography is the Book of Allah, and Prophet Mu- (Seerah) of the Last Prophet (peace be hammad (peace be upon him) is the upon him), which is one of the most ‘Person/ Persona’ through whom that prominent genres in the Islamic literary Divine Book came to humanity, and tradition. A plethora of literature, on his words and deeds (Ahadith & Sun- this specific genre, exists in all Islamic nah) are the first and most important languages in prose and poetry. Also, commentary and explanation (Tafsir) interest has been recently increased, in on it. From classical to contemporary the West, about the popular as well as eras, numerous works have been writ- scholarly Seerah works as well. Among

l l 58 Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 the recent scholarship on this theme, a good number bring it the much needed peace and happiness. have been written by Western (Muslim & non-Mus- Prophet (peace be upon him), as a leader and as lims alike) scholars. Most of the Western non-Muslim the political head of the City-State of Madinah, never scholarship on Prophet’s Seerah has been presented led the life of a king: he was a King without kingly in a highly distorted, biased, bigoted, negative, and pretension. He had no arms, no standing army, no offensive form. However, this is just one side of the body guard, and no palace. Bosworth Smith, in his coin; the other side shows that there have been many well-known book Muhammad and Muhammadan- instances and examples which show the positive ism, describes this in these words: Head of the State ‘perception’ of some Westerners, i.e., the perception as well as of the Church, he was Caesar and Pope of the image of Prophet (SAAS) in an unbiased, posi- in one; but he was Pope without Pope’s pretensions, tive, and balanced way. Here, in this write-up, views Caesar without the legion of Caesar: without a stand- of some of these scholars/ writers, falling in the lat- ing army, without a body-guard, without a palace, ter category, are presented with the major objective without a fixed revenue; if ever any man had the to show the developments as well as perception of right to say that he ruled by the right divine, it was Prophet (SAAS) in the 21st century West. Muhammad [peace be upon him], for he had all the power without its instructions and without its sup- 20th Century Western Perceptions on Prophet’s ports. (peace be upon him) Seerah: Some Examples Alphonse Lamartine, a French historian, in his His- 21st Century Western Perceptions on Prophet’s torie de la Turquie, pays tribute to Prophet (peace be (peace be upon him) Seerah: Some Positive Glimps- upon him) in these words: On the basis of a Book es [Noble Qur’an], every letter of which has become The legacy has continued in the present times as well. law, he Prophet (peace be upon him) created a spiri- Though in the wake of the events of 9/11 (Sep 2001), tual nationality which has blended together peoples Islam, its Divine Book (Noble Qur’an) and the Last of every tongue and of every race. He has left to us Messenger (Prophet Muhammad peace be upon him) the indelible characteristic of this Muslim national- were presented and perceived in a highly negative ity, the hatred of false gods, and the passion for the way; however as the saying goes “something good One and immaterial Allah. It was Prophet’s (peace comes out from something bad”how, same was true be upon him) conviction, he continues, which gave with the Western Scholarship on Islam, and its diverse him the power to restore a creed, a two-fold creed: aspects. One major area in which numerous works Allah’s Unity and the immateriality of Allah. Philos- were produced is the Seerah of the Last Messenger opher, orator, apostle, legislator, warrior, conqueror of Allah (peace be upon him). The below passages of ideas, restorer of rational dogmas; founder of one reveal very clearly what and how the Western Acade- spiritual state, that is Muhammad (peace be upon micians perceive the Personality of the Prophet. Here him). As regards all standards by which human great- are some glimpses of same. ness may be measured, we may well ask: Is there any Professor Carl W. Ernst (Professor of North Caro- man greater than he? lina Chappell Hill, USA), in his Following Muham- Calling Prophet (peace be upon him) the Savior of mad: Rethinking Islam in the Contemporary World, Humanity, George Bernard Shaw (in ‘The Genuine writes: “While the Qur’an as divine revelation may be Islam) put forth that the present world needs leaders the most important resource of the Islamic tradition, like Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) for the we would not have it in its present form without the general peace and comfort. I have always held, Shaw Prophet Muhammad [peace be upon him]. He [peace states, the religion of Muhammad peace be upon him be upon him] has served as an ongoing model for eth- in high estimation because of its wonderful vitality. It ics, law, family life, politics, and spirituality in ways is the only religion, which appears to me to possess that were not anticipated 1,400 years ago. There are that assimilating capacity to the changing phase of few people in history who have had a greater impact existence, which can make itself appeal to every age. on humanity, and it is through the historical elabora- Shaw also believes that if a man like him were to as- tion of tradition that we must seek to understand that sume the dictatorship of the modern world he would impact”. succeed in solving its problems in a way that would Professor Gerhard Bowering (Yale University,

l Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 l 59 USA) in an article entitled “Muhammad (570-632)”, Karen Armstrong, British author and commenta- in his Princeton Encyclopedia of Islamic Political tor of Irish Catholic descent (who is well known for Thought, is of this opinion when he presents Prophet her books on comparative religions as well as Islam), (peace be upon him) as a political leader: “That one in her Islam: A Short History writes about Prophet man could achieve so much in such a short time is (peace be upon him) in these words: Muhammad astounding. [He (peace be upon him)] made a glob- [peace be upon him] did not think that he was found- al impact over more than a millennium and whose ing a new religion, but that he was merely bringing cause continues to exert a worldwide attraction to- the old faith in the One God to the Arabs, who had day. His message has stood the test of time for more never had a prophet before. Single-handedly, Mu- than a thousand years, and his community has grown hammad [peace be upon him; in a brief period of 23 steadily over the centuries. years] had brought peace to war-torn Arabia. Mu- Professor Tamara Sonn (Professor in the History hammad [peace be upon him] became the archetypal of Islam at Georgetown University, USA) in her Is- example of that perfect submission to the divine, and lam: A Brief History’, also admits that Prophet’s Muslims would attempt to conform to this standard [peace be upon him] role extends beyond the task of in their spiritual and social lives. Muhammad was delivering revelation, for his life is a model for hu- never venerated as a divine figure, but he was held manity of how to live every moment, and make every to be the Perfect Man. His surrender to God had been choice, in accordance with God’s will. The way he so complete that he had transformed society and en- lived his life is described by the Qur’an as the best abled the Arabs to live together in harmony. example of Islam; and together with the Qur’an, his These are some of the glimpses of the unbiased, example (Sunnah) comprise the guidance [and direc- positive, and balanced approach adopted by western tion] Muslims need in their collective responsibility scholars on Prophet’s Seerah. However, this is just to establish justice. one side of the coin; the other side shows that there Professor John L. Esposito (Professor of Reli- have been many attempts when the image of Prophet gion & International Affairs and of Islamic Studies (peace be upon him) was presented in a highly dis- at Georgetown University, USA) in his What Every- torted form. An extensively researched and remark- one Needs to Know About Islam writes: In contrast able work, refuting the orientalist attacks, was au- to the often spiritualized Christian view of Jesus thored by Muhammad Mohar Ali, Sirat Al-Nabi and Prophet Issa (may Allah be bless on him), Muslims the Orientalists (published from Madina in 1997). look upon Muhammad (peace be upon him) as both In 2010, Dr Abdulwahab Al-Affendi (a Sudanese a prophet and a very human figure, one who had great Islamic political scientist based in UK’s University political as well as spiritual insights. Thus Muslims of Westminster) published, as an anthological col- look to Muhammad’s (peace be upon him) example lection of Western Writings on the Prophet Muham- for guidance in all aspects of life: how to treat friends mad [peace be upon him]: From the 18th Century to as well as enemies, what to eat and drink, how to the Present, ‘About Muhammad: The Other Western mourn and celebrate. [Prophet] Muhammad’s (peace Perspective on the Prophet of Islam (Legacy Publish- be upon him) life translated the guidance revealed in ing, UK, 2010). It is a vital compilation of extracts, the Qur’an into action; he lived the revelation, giv- each by Western writers, which provides a well in- ing concrete form to the laws that God revealed for formed and beautiful insight into the mission, heri- the various conditions of ordinary human life. For tage and legacy of Muhammad, the prophet of Islam, Islam, no aspect of life is outside the realm of re- and contains essays/ extracts from the works of the ligion”. In his The Future of Islam, Esposito writes Western scholars like George Sale, Thomas Carlyle, as: “Muhammad [peace be upon him] is one of the Alphonse Marie Louis de Lamartine, Tor Andrae, great figures of world history. Few have had more of W. Montgomery Watt, John L. Esposito, Annemarie a global religious and political impact; yet no prophet Schimmel, Clinton Bennett, Barnaby Rogerson, Kar- has been more vilified throughout history. … In his en Armstrong, & Bayard Taylor, on varied aspects of lifetime, throughout Muslim history, and today, the Prophet’s (SAAS) life and mission. This Western leg- Prophet Muhammad [peace be upon him] is seen as acy on Prophet’s Seerah, of both positive & negative the ‘living Qur’an’, the embodiment of God’s will in perceptions, is a continuous, constant, and unceasing his behavior and words”. effort.

l l 60 Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 Why Nigerian Muslims Should Not Celebrate The Gregorian New Year ( January 1st )

By Dr. K.K. Busari.

Every year, a large number of Muslims celebrate New Year’s day i.e January 1st . They get into the festive spirit holding New Year’s Eve par- ties forgetting that they also have their own festivals which are Eid-al- fitr and Eid-al-Kabeer. Many Muslims in Nigeria have forgotten or are totally ignorant of Suratulkafirun in the Holy Quran (Q 109) which ends thus: “For you is your religion, and for me is my religion” But is this is a harmless cultural practice with no faith based signifi- cance or a step in the wrong direction? I opine that it is the latter.

l Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 l 61 Origin of the Gregorian Calendar. The Gregorian calendar was set by Pope Gregory 13th and he also officially fixed the first day of the year for Christian Europe as January 1st in 1582. January is named after Janus, the Roman god of doors and gateways. He was commonly depicted in statues, carvings and paintings as a two headed man with one head and facing forward and the other head facing backwards. In 46BC Julius Ceasar chose January 1st as the first day of the New Year as Janus symbolically represented the door to New Year. Wild Parties and orgies were held on the night before the New Year’s Day as a re-enactment of the chaos which Roman mythology depicted as preceding the cosmos or the ordered world whose organization was set by the gods. Furthermore, by that time, Janus had become, in practice, the highest god receiving the ritual sacrifice of roman worshippers before the other gods, including the chief god, Jupiter.

Here are 4 reasons why I believe that Muslims should not celebrate the New Year. 1. What exactly is there to celebrate? Any celebration by Muslims needs to be put into context of the local and global situation of our hu- cumstances beyond our control, we know for a fact man beings. The two Eids amply do so by encourag- that Allah has ordained the use of the lunar calendar ing prayers, duaa for those suffering and alms to the for us in our worship. needy. However, celebrating the New Year does no According to our Hijri calendar (initiated by the such thing. great Sahaaba) , the new year actually begins on first It is a celebration that is cut off from reality of of Muharram. the rest of the Ummah. The starvation in Somalia, The Gregorian calendar (so called because it was the murder in Syria, the imprisonment of Gaza, the developed by Pope Gregory) decided on the 1st of ethnic cleansing of Burma, intrusion into Al Masjid January as New Year to celebrate the circumcision Al- Aqsa in Jerusalem- celebrating the New year is of Jesus. Its origin like so many modern-day holi- pretty much exactly the opposite of “fever and wake- days lies in the pagan Roman festivals associated fulness” that the Prophet spoke about when he said with Janus, the two headed diety who symbolized we were like one body. change. Salahuddin Ayyubi was once asked why he hard- ly ever smiled even though this was a sunnah of the 3. They may involve un-islamic practices. Prophet (peace be upon him). He replied, “How can Let’s be honest. When you picture New Year’s I smile when I know that Masjid Al Aqsa is being de- Eve celebration, you don’t picture people sitting in a filed and the Muslims are suffering?!” That attitude, gathering that could take place in a mosque or with dear brothers and sisters, is why he achieved what he the local Imam around. Instead, they are (and I know did and why we’re still debating on whether or not it this is a generalization) usually events that mirror the is acceptable to send “Happy New Year” messages. celebration of where this holiday originated from. It is usually an Islam free zone, which is not entire sur- 2.It is technically inaccurate and pagan prising given that it has no basis or relationship to As Muslims, we have our own calendar that has Islam. been in constant use for 1439 years. Even though we may end up using the Gregorian calendar due to cir- 4. It is against the spirit of Islam.

l l 62 Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 a few words or just enjoying ourselves. Equally, we may be opening the door to other evils and heresies which are not part of our religion. The issue occupied the minds of greater people than us, Uthman, Ali and many other of greatest Sahaaba. When the great assemblage of the com- panions of the Prophet had discussed this issue at length, the matter was brought to a close by the wise word of Caliph Omar that are as relevant today as they were then. He said, “The Hijrah has separated truth from falsehood, therefore, let it become the epoch of era.”

Conclusion. Thus, in its essence, the celebrations of the New Year on January 1st and New Year’s Eve, the night before, are a part and parcel of pagan religious ritu- als based on idolatrous beliefs in false gods. Conse- quently, it is completely Haram (sinful and forbid- den) for Muslims to participate in or adopt any of its related rituals, customs and symbols. If a non-Muslim greets a Muslim, “Happy New Year”, the Muslim is not allowed to respond in a similar manner or say, ”Same to you ”. Instead, in It is well recognized that there is a difference of order not to offend or hurt the feelings of non-Mus- opinion on this matter between scholars, and I re- lims friends or acquaintances one may say “Happy spect that. However, there are a few points on that: Holiday.” Firstly, the number of scholars who condone the As for celebrating the New Year according to celebration of the New Year are in the minority. the Islamic calendar which begins with the month Secondly, the scholars who do condone it almost of Muharram, this is also not permissible from a never actually celebrate the New Year themselves number of perspectives. First and foremost, if one or with families at least not in public showing that does so believing that it is pleasing to Allah to do even though they may believe it is acceptable but not so, thereby transforming into an act of worship, preferable. it becomes a Bid’ah or cursed innovation in the Thirdly, many of them predicate their views religion about which the Prophet (PBUH) said, based on a number of caveats that it is no longer a “Every innovation in religion is misguidance and pagan or Christian ritual, that it is good dawah to all misguidance leads to the Hellfire ”. If one does non-muslims and that it does not involve any Islamic does so merely as a custom, it is still impermis- element. Most of these caveats are difficult to satisfy sible as it falls under the prohibition of imitation of adequately. pagan customs about which the Prophet (PBUH) This is meant to be a gentle reminder and not a said, “Whoever imitates a people becomes one of harsh rebuke. It would be against the spirit of Islam them.” not to show kindness and respect to non-muslims. We are encouraged to be warm and welcoming, not References. least because it will attract others to our faith, culture 1. The Holy Qur’an. and heritage. 2. The Hadith of the Prophet Muhammad There are many ways to showcase our manners (PBUH) ( Bukhari & Muslim) and act as ambassadors for our faith without having 3. A lecture delivered by Dr. Busari, K.K. dur- to adopt the celebration of others. By adopting the ing one of Nasfatprogrammes organized by the Osun celebrations of others, we may be harmlessly saying Zone of the Society on 17th December, 2017.

l Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018 l 63 Jeddah International Airport to open in May 2018

Jeddah, (UNA-OIC) - The head of the General ously is 70 connected to the terminal as well as 28 Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) Abdul Hakim aircraft on the tarmac.” Al-Tamimi has announced that the initial opening During his speech, the GACA president stressed and pilot operations of the new King Abdulaziz In- the importance of the new Taif International Air- ternational Airport in Jeddah will be in May 2018. port, which will support the King Abdul Aziz In- The announcement came on the sidelines of the ternational Airport in Jeddah. Makkah Region Reconstruction Conference. “The GACA has assigned the new Taif (Inter- “Air transport is the preferred method for the national) Airport to the private sector. The new Hajj and Umrah pilgrims, both from inside and airport will provide convenience for visitors, and outside the Kingdom. The number of Hajj pilgrims Umrah and Hajj pilgrims. The airport is expected arriving by air in 2017 reached 1,648,906, while to open in December 2020,” Al-Tamimi said. the number of Umrah pilgrims arriving by air in He also referred to the GACA agreement with 2017 reached 5,664,208,” Al-Tamimi said. the new developer of Taif International Airport to He said that the King Abdulaziz International develop the existing terminals to accommodate Airport was a mega project as it “includes 810,000 Hajj and Umrah pilgrims. square meters of terminals. It also includes 200 “The coming season will see a larger number of counters designed for completion of travel pro- Hajj and Umrah pilgrims coming to the Kingdom cedures and 80 self-service counters as well. The through Taif International Airport,” Al-Tamimi number of aircraft that can be received simultane- said.

l l 64 Rabi Al-Thani1439/January 2018