Published by Darul Arqam Singapore 32 Muslim Converts’ Issue 02 Association of Singapore 2014

themuslimreader MCI (P) 111/07/2014 ISSN 1793-7752

RELIGION THEN&NOW Published by Darul Arqam Singapore 32 Muslim Converts’ Issue 02 Association of Singapore 2014

themuslimreader MCI (P) 111/07/2014 ISSN 1793-7752

Congratulations YODA Team One Al-Nawwas bin Sam’an (RA) reported that Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said:

Righteousness is good character, and sin is that which wavers in your heart and which you do not want people to know about.

Forty Hadith Compiled by Imam Nawawi Number 27 Related by Muslim contents Religion, Then and Now

FEATURES REGULARS LEAP OF FAITH 06 Religion, Then and Now 05 Samara Mosque 41 Rizq and Baraqah as I [by Dr Yamin Cheng] 14 What Defines the Muslim Understand It 17 Why New Zealand Needs Business Mentality [by Sim Khadijah a Foster Home for Muslim [by Umar Munshi] Mohammed] Children 30 The Growth of the Halal 47 Being Thankful [by David Zachariah Trade [by Lee Swaleha Afandi] Blocksidge] [by Hyder Gulam] 49 The Ordinary Convert 33 When Caring for the 57 The First Advice from [by Nadia Mak @ Candy Environment is Caring for Luqman the Wise to His Son Mak] Ourselves [by Syed Ahmad Semait] [by Sharifah Zubaidah A [translation by Shaffiq Kader Aljunid] Selamat] common terms

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

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

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

LIFESTYLE 38 1,001 Things You Never HOUSE OF ARQAM 21 Hidden Charm with Knew 12 Annual General Meeting Flavourful Desserts [by Abdul Ghafar Abdul 2014 [by Siti Zubeidah Kadir] Kadir] [Photographs by Razali 26 Arabic for Beginners: 51 Discover Ariff series - Tompang] The Family Introduce Children to Daily 13 Council Members and Title [by As-Souq] Life Lessons of Office for 2014 36 The Importance of Two [by Nur Azeemah Kadir] Languages 63 Remembering Omar (RA) [by Nur Azeemah Kadir] [by Siti Zubeidah Kadir]

managing editor contributors special thanks design & layout copyright aishah hussein abdul ghafar abdul kadir sheikh alaa elsayed adzen touche © 2014 darul arqam candy mak @ nadia mak as-souq singapore. all rights carol ‘aliya widjaya david zachariah reserved. the contents associate/lifestyle editor david zachariah blocksidge disclaimer of this publication may siti zubeidah kadir blocksidge mufti dr fatris bakaram the publisher and editor not be reproduced in any hyder gulam kristiane backer are unable to accept form or by any means, lee swaleha afandi muhd irfan maslan any liability for errors or either in its entirety, or consulting editor nazeera mohamed pustaka nasional omissions that may occur even partially, without the dr yamin cheng nur azeemah kadir qurrah shumar and any consequences documented permission sharifah zubaidah a kader razali tompang arising from the use of of the publisher. aljunid yoda information contained technical advisor sim khadijah mohammed in this magazine. the zainal abidin nordin siti zubeidah kadir views expressed do not umar munshi cover photo necessarily reflect those dr yamin cheng muhd irfan maslan of the publisher and editor. the publication of advertisements and printed in singapore by publisher advertorials within khl printing pte ltd darul arqam singapore the magazine does 32 onan road, the galaxy not constitute any the muslim reader is singapore 424484 endorsement by the published three times in phone: +65 6348 8344 publisher and editor of a year by darul arqam fax: +65 6440 6724 the contents therein. singapore. www.darularqam.org.sg

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

HOUSE OF ARQAM 45 Lectures by Sheikh Alaa 61 Lectures by Kristiane Backer 23 YODA – Champion of SMYD Elsayed [Photographs by Muhd 2014 [Photographs by Muhd Irfan Irfan Maslan] [Photographs by Muhd Maslan] 62 In Conversation with Mufti Irfan Maslan] 46 Congratulations to the 2013 Dr Fatris Bakaram 24 Singapore Muslim Youth Al-Mawrid Essay Winners [Photographs by Razali Debate 2014 53 YODA Celebrate Cultural Tompang] [Photographs by Muhd Diversity Irfan Maslan] [Text by Nazeerah Mohamed / Photographs by Qurrah Shumar]

editorial note Religion, Then and Now

This edition of TMR features a dual cover - the normal TMR cover moves to the back to make room for the special front cover that highlights the winning team of debaters who represented the Youths of Darul Arqam (YODA) Team One this year in the Singapore Muslim Youth Debate (SMYD). In its fifth instalment, SMYD, which is organised annually by YODA, brought 13 teams from various institutions and organisations on a national platform to debate on issues relevant to the Singaporean Muslim youths. TMR congratulates YODA Team One, the Champion of SMYD 2014, as well as the organising committees of SMYD through the years that worked to bring this event to the community and give the youths the opportunity to openly engage in debates about Muslim issues with English as the language medium.

TMR, in this edition, looks at the difference in the views on religion that we experience today as compared to yesterday. In the main feature, Dr Yamin Cheng reminds us of how mankind has been religious all along, since day one of their existence, regardless of how they may think that religion is only ‘something out of the many things’ in their lives. If our eyes truly see, Islam is embedded within and around us.

With the call towards positive activism amplified today, TMR brings into focus the efforts of our New Zealand brothers and sisters who are raising funds to build their first Islamic orphanage and foster home for the Muslim children. Find out inside on how you can help in their charitable efforts to build a robust community of Muslims there.

Insha’Allah, may Allah (SWT) bless them (and us) with the strength to be the positive changes of our times.

managing editor aishah hussein [email protected]

the muslim reader 04 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 Samara Mosque Samara Oblast, Russia

Located on the street of Stara Zagora, the Samara Mosque was opened on 28 November 1999. With an area of 3,600 square metres, it can accommodate about 5,000 worshippers at a time, and includes a Madrassa with a capacity for 60 students. Local Samaran architect, named Rasim Valshin, designed the mosque, with carpets from Tajikistan lining the halls of the buildings. The minaret stands at 67 metres while an apple orchard decorates the compounds. It is claimed that the Samara region of Russia is home to more than 200,000 Muslims.

the muslim reader 05 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 feature RELIGION THEN&NOW Seeing religion, as it appears to us - a total and complete way of life, no matter in the past or in modern times. text by YAMIN CHENG

the muslim reader 06 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 feature

RELIGION IS SOCIETY, POLITICS, ECONOMICS, CULTURE, EDUCATION, ART, AND EVERYTHING THAT HAS TO DO WITH HUMAN LIVING, ALL AT ONCE

nce upon a time, in of society as a whole, so that this dimension of human life, giving us many societies of the behaviour will be the ‘outward the story of our life - about where world, it would appear sign of inner grace,’ that is to say, we come from, what we are doing strange and awkward a visible sign of the Protestant in this world, and where we will for someone living in believer that he has been elected be going after we die. It is only in Othose times to be told that religion for eternal bliss and avoid eternal modern times like ours that the is only one aspect and activity of damnation in the next life. This view of religion, as the need of the the human life. For that person, understanding of capitalism is so oppressed, the assurance of the religion is everything. Religion unlike today’s understanding of it weak-minded, and the salvation of is society, politics, economics, that when one thinks of capitalism the hapless, comes about. culture, education, art, and today, one thinks of greed and everything that has to do with selfishness, rather than austerity Religion is equated with myth, human living, all at once. Religion, and charity. superstition, and things primitive. It Cosmos or Universe, Nature or is a thing of the past and can never Environment, Society and Family, This goes to show that, as some feature in modern life that hails Culture and Ethics, Self and the will argue, modern societies look at reason and science as liberation Body are inseparable from one religion in ways different from those from religion. Religion is seen as another. Rather, they are all related of their forefathers. If at one time, old things, old ways, and all things as a web or chain of relationship, religion is everything and means outdated and obsolete, and these becoming mirror reflections of everything to a person, today, things, at best, serve only as one another, and functioning as religion is only something out of precious mementos for museum analogies for thought, feeling, and many things and is only meaningful display, reminding us how they have language. Even today, such as in time of need. come to shape mankind’s in the Malay language, one finds Dark Ages. in the peribahasa, or idiom, that Associations with the Past someone is an alim-alim kucing, Religion, for many of us today, is When we turn to even a modern a ‘pious-looking cat,’ if he is a oftentimes associated with the thinker such as Emile Durkheim, pretender. past, and the past is always more whom every student of sociology primitive and less progressive than knows, we will be astounded to find Max Weber, a famous German the present. that the way Durkheim describes sociologist, in his study of the religion is as applicable to modern relationship between the Protestant Religion, on its part, has existed societies as it is to past or even ethics and capitalism, tries to from the day our forefathers made primitive societies. show how capitalism is basically their presence in this world. From a religious behaviour, a behaviour the time the first human emerged For Durkheim, the essence of that encourages a person to on earth until today, religion religion is the ‘sacred’, a quality recycle one’s profit for the benefit has always featured as a crucial that holds everything together

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THE PAST AND THE PRESENT MAY APPEAR TO US AS DIFFERENT INSTANCES OF EXISTENCE, ONE CONSIDERED LESS AND THE OTHER MORE IN CIVILIZATIONAL ACHIEVEMENTS.

in a unity so that if this quality is this characteristic of religion. Take, left religion behind in the name of lost, then everything will collapse for example, a football club. The progress and enlightenment. and become separate entities that club’s emblem brings together its do not have a common identity. fans into a unity of the club’s image Religion, if it has been thought of as For primitive people, the sacred so that if the emblem is tarnished a thing of the past, can be thought appears as the ‘totem’, a name for in any way, the fans would react of as a thing of the present, if only the sacred as the unifying principle to the incident, sometimes even to we understand how the connection and function of whatever there is the point of going into a fight. This is made, such as between a mosque in existence. Because the totem shows that the emblem is actually and a restaurant. The restaurant is cannot be seen or touched, an a totem and holds a special place a place of worship the same way emblem, which is a visual image, is in the minds and hearts of the fans, the mosque is a place of worship, used to represent the totem. This so special that it acquires a ‘sacred’ because a place of worship is a emblem usually takes the form of status to the extent that doing place where goodness happens, an animal. If the emblem is a lion, anything harmful to the emblem and eating food that is healthy to then the sacred is visualised as a means also incurring the wrath of the body is an act of goodness. To terrifying and brave power. This the club and its fans. quote what Clifford Geertz says emblem becomes the emblem about what planets and pendulums of a group or clan, so that all the Common between the past and the have in common: ‘Look at them members in that group or clan present in the proper light, their very visualise the sacred as a lion. The past and the present may differences connect them.’ Following this, the members of appear to us as different instances the group or clan also visualise of existence, one considered less Many Muslims will find it strange, themselves as a lion, and their and the other more in civilizational and obviously very odd, to regard behaviour and movement imitate achievements, but if looked at in a restaurant as a place where that of the lion. the proper light, there are many religion happens, the same way things in common between the past religion happens in a mosque. Although modern people no longer and the present that made religion This perception is made more think of religion this way, yet, in as vibrant and relevant even for pronounced with the presence of many ways, their behaviour reflects those who think the modern has Western fast-food outlets that have

the muslim reader 08 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 feature swarmed Muslim societies. Young the restaurant should not expect be nutritious and of good quality, people like to frequent places Muslim customers. the place has to be hygienic and like Pizza Hut, Burger King, A&W comfortable, and the services have and other such places, and eating Apart from names, as long as to be prompt and appealing. It pizzas, hot dogs, and burgers have the food is halal, or permissible is these ‘extras’ that made many become a local habit these days. from the viewpoint of the Islamic people, young and old alike, and But these places carry with them dietary laws, the restaurant especially the little ones, to want to Western names and, historically can be considered a religious come to Western-style restaurants and culturally, Western things are place for Muslims. There is a to eat because they have the recipe foreign to the Muslim experience misunderstanding however to attract people to their places. of religion. So what have Pizza Hut regarding what halal is. Halal is not They have quality control. and Burger King to do with religion? pork-free. Whether it is beef or chicken, halal beef or chicken refers 3 Categories of Daily Living Names and Identity to cows and chickens slaughtered Muslim scholars, right from the days Eating outlets with Western names according to the Islamic rituals for when Islam blossomed to become nonetheless can be places where slaughtering. The writer chanced a world civilization, have classified religion happens, the same way a to visit Sentosa Island many years Islamic daily living into three broad Muslim restaurant that has a Muslim ago and was looking for a halal categories. These are daruriyyat or name. While names are important eatery. Incidentally, he saw two necessary, hajiyyat or desirable, and because they reflect what identity eateries adjacent to one another. tahsiniyyat or premium lifestyle. a restaurant carries, as long as One had this sign: Non-Halal To be able to savour a piece of the name is not one that touches Food Not Permitted Here. That’s chicken so that one could go on on the sensitivities of the Muslim comprehensible enough. The other living is daruriyyat. But nobody faith, they should not be a problem. read: Halal Food Not Permitted wants to eat just to avoid being Muslims in Singapore and Malaysia, Here. Sounds anything? hungry. They want to see the for instance, are sensitive to dogs, chicken properly cooked, tastes but they have no problem eating But for a restaurant to be a religious juicy, the meat is tender, and, of hot dog. But if the restaurant is place, it is not enough for the food course, nice to see and wets the called ‘Doggy Restaurant’ then to be halal. The food must also appetite. This is hajiyyat. But above

The entrance to an Islamic halal food restaurant in Shanghai, China. The restaurant caters to Shanghai’s minority Muslim community, mainly Uighurs and some Huis. Photo: Imran Ahmed

the muslim reader 09 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 feature

MEALS AND RESTAURANTS COULD BE RELIGIOUS THINGS BECAUSE THEY SERVE OUT THE PURPOSE OF RELIGIOUS LIVING.

all, the appetite becomes a full sent but to bring into fruition the of religion.” In sum, the restaurant picture of a culture when one sees noble qualities in human character.” is something through which we live what culinary art could do to make our religious existence, fulfil our the chicken dish something that For Muslims, religion is everyday, social meaning, and portray our trains a person to be a cultured everywhere, and everything, human identity. personality with the way he sits past and present, traditional and around the table, how he behaves modern. For a Muslim, religion When we put all these things of towards the food before, during, occurs even to a restaurant. The everyday living together, from pen and after meal, and how he keeps restaurant can connect him to to attire to restaurant and to other his manners when he is eating. This God. Through the restaurant, he objects, we will see that they are is tahsiniyyat. is mindful that it is God who gave linked in such a way as to form a him his sustenance and therefore religious matrix connecting these Therefore, meals and restaurants becomes careful with what he things as religious. Only then, could be religious things because takes into his body so that the religion appears to us as a total and they serve out the purpose of food becomes his source of health complete way of life. Mankind has religious living, which is to make and energy, and not a cause of his always been religious from day one a person conscientious about his illness and gluttony. Through the of their existence. It is they who manners and ethics of everyday restaurant too, he understands need to know that they have been living which would then mould why hygiene and cleanliness are religious all along, even in modern him into a personality desired by essential to his well-being and times like ours. TMR religion, for Prophet Muhammad comfort, for the Prophet (SAW) (SAW) had said, “I have not been had said, “Cleanliness is an aspect

the muslim reader 10 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 the muslim reader 11 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 house of arqam

Darul Arqam’s 34th Annual General Meeting (AGM) on 30 March 2014

President, Edwin Ignatious M @ Muhammad Faiz, addressed the members who attended the AGM (right).

The Council lineup for 2014 is listed on the facing page.

PHOTOGRAPHS BY RAZALI TOMPANG

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

the muslim reader 12 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 The Muslim Converts’ Association of Singapore

Caption COUNCIL MEMBERS Title of O ce for 2014

Caption

Abdul Jalil Muhammad Tahir VICE PRESIDENT, CORPORATE AFFAIRS DIVISION Caption Abdul Razak Isa COUNCIL MEMBER Ari Sultan s/o Lily Khoo @ Shahira Youso Sultan Abdullah VICE PRESIDENT, COUNCIL MEMBER DA’WAH DIVISION Caption Mohd Ridzuan Ng Chew Wan Koon @ DEPUTY PRESIDENT Nur Shafiqa Philip Hidayat Ngay Moiz Tyebally COUNCIL MEMBER COUNCIL MEMBER ASST VICE PRESIDENT, Edwin Ignatious M @ Radhiah Mohamed Salim FINANCE DIVISION Muhammed Faiz COUNCIL MEMBER Muhammad Azhar PRESIDENT Razees Abdul Karim Abdullah Cheah Fatimah Abdullah COUNCIL MEMBER COUNCIL MEMBER COUNCIL MEMBER Ridzuan Wu Chia Chung Muhammad Imran Hafidz Abdullah COUNCIL MEMBER Kuna Abdullah VICE PRESIDENT, VICE PRESIDENT, CONVERTS’ EDUCATION DIVISION Siti Aisha Abdullah (Bernice) DEVELOPMENT DIVISION VICE PRESIDENT, Ilyas Yeow Shih Yeh FINANCE DIVISION Nazryn Azhar Samat ASST VICE PRESIDENT, COUNCIL MEMBER CORPORATE AFFAIRS DIVISION Syed Ismail Ahmad Alsago COUNCIL MEMBER Nur Fitrah Teng @ Iman Wong Sai Fung Teng Chai Ling COUNCIL MEMBER Wileeza Abdul Gapar COUNCIL MEMBER ASST VICE PRESIDENT, Jay Prakash S Rajoo @ DA’WAH DIVISION Nur Sumaiya Tan Ishaq ASST VICE PRESIDENT, CONVERTS’ COUNCIL MEMBER Zin Bo Aung Mohamed DEVELOPMENT DIVISION Ali Yacob Joy Joanne Shalome ASST VICE PRESIDENT, Nurashikin Lee Bikarmjeet Singh @ Farah the muslim EreaderDUCATION DIVISION COUNCIL MEMBER COUNCIL MEMBER 13 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 musings What Defines the Muslim Business Mentality

The key to a successful Muslim business community is unity but unity based on what?

text by UMAR MUNSHI

o Muslims in Singapore businesses. Alarmingly we are dependent on what He had set have the Business gene even losing the market share in for us, we tend to subscribe to in their DNA? previously ‘untouchable’ sectors, the view that material possession At one time, Indian and such as Muslim Wedding catering, somehow defines success, and Arab Muslim migrants to non-Muslim businesses. This is even worse, defines ourselves. Our Dcame to the South-east Asian happening because Muslims are fundamental beliefs conflict with region as traders and merchants, buying based on merit, and not this fundamentally flawed valuation with business expansion as their that they are produced by Muslims of life. primary objective. The local Malays – these businesses tend to give a and Peranakan Muslims too had better deal, in quality or price. We The Right Business Mentality a strong culture of business, have not been able to maintain our The route forward is thus clear. characterised by the effervescent natural dominance in our own niche We need to revert to doing spirit of gotong-royong markets. business in accordance with Islamic (teamwork). This vibrant fraternity principles - and in doing so, revive resulted in thriving community- Who is the Muslim Consumer the soul of commerce. We need centric businesses that created The modern consumer, and this to suppress the profit motive employment and provided essential includes the Muslim consumer, and put it in its rightful place as a services. is sucked into the vicious cycle secondary priority, one that exists of working to spend, in order to incentivise efficiency and ensure Today, the landscape has become to pacify (temporarily) our long-term sustainability - not as radically different. Singapore has insatiable desire for worldly the highest arbitrator of all things. transformed into a dynamic hub possessions. This style of living is The overriding objective for Muslim for trade and commerce and is in direct contradiction with Islamic businessmen must be to seek the one of the richest countries in teachings of moderation and shukr pleasure of our Creator, and how the world but where does the (gratitude). This is the paradox of we run our businesses must be Muslim community fit into this the Muslim consumer. While we in sync with this. The universal landscape? The services and acknowledge that the source of good inherent in Islamic business brands Singaporeans consume are all things is Allah (SWT), and that practices and muamalat (financial very rarely the product of Muslim our rizq (sustenance) is entirely transactions) has tremendous

the muslim reader 14 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 musings

THE COMMON DENOMINATOR IN THEIR VARIOUS FORMS OF SUCCESS WAS UNITY. potential to uplift this depressed back to the true spirit of Islamic A United Muslim Business economy, and bridge yawning gaps Business. We need to identify the Community in living standards. main cause of our lackadaisical The creation of a united Muslim business performance, and why it business community needs to “And Allah gives provision to deteriorated to this insipid state. happen at all levels. Individuals whom He wills without limitations.” We need to come together and need to adopt and practise (Al-Baqarah, 02:212) coalesce around shared goals. this approach to business. The We need to support and share, to community needs to support An encouraging trend is the recent gather strengths and close gaps social enterprises and collaborative revival of youth entrepreneurship. and weaknesses. Muslim businesses businesses by patronising them. Social media has removed need to collaborate – in short, we Institutions and organisations also traditional barriers to entry and need Unity. have a role to play to educate a new breed of talented business and facilitate business matching leaders has experienced noteworthy Unity is the key ingredient we lack. and joint-venture efforts. Specific success. Many of these businesses In my entrepreneurial journey, I was industries and sectors may form have also successfully crossed over immersed in a multitude of different groups and alliances with mutually- from the virtual realm and continue business cultures – from tightly-knit beneficial initiatives for their to thrive as brick and mortar circles of Singaporean Chinese, to members. Between these levels businesses. This development is a relationship and connections-based too, there needs to be a strong flow potential driver for change. What Indonesians, to protective family- of ideas and capital. Technology is more important than the act of owned Saudi Arabian businesses. has immense potential to bring the being an entrepreneur is developing The common denominator in their community together. We have seen the entrepreneurial mindset. various forms of success was unity. web-based open-source platforms, This mindset views problems as such as Wikipedia flourish, opportunities and focuses on We need to dig deep and exorcise giving credence to the power of creating more with less. It stimulates our business culture of dangerous technology-enabled collectivism. risk-taking, creativity, innovation, mindsets such as jealousy, greed, and disruptive thinking. We have revenge, and viewing each other Collaborative models that a wave of such youthful talent with distrust. These diseases of bring investors and businesses emerging, and we need to embrace the heart are not only obstacles, together have also experienced them and support them. they are also highly destructive. unprecedented success in recent We need to acknowledge that years. Crowd-funding is one such What we need to do these are deep-rooted problems concept that has taken off in the Before we can embark on that we need to collectively focus West, with total funds raised hitting reform, we need to first discard on removing. A united approach US$5.1 billion in 2013. These are regressive old habits and embrace to removing these mindsets will in platforms where the community constructive ones. We need to go itself bring about greater unity. collectively invests or donates small

the muslim reader 15 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 musings amounts of capital to fund start-ups businesses collaborate, they are [his lot] in this world and the next. and businesses. able to immediately increase their Whosoever shields a Muslim, Allah scale, which will in turn enhance will shield him in this world and the In Singapore, due to a more robust capabilities and lower costs. next. Allah will aid a slave [of His] so regulatory environment, adapted Businesses will also be able to long as the slave aids his brother. models with more controls on the leverage on each other’s resources Whosoever follows a path to seek sourcing of investments are gaining and competencies, thus be better knowledge therein, Allah will make market traction. Such an approach able to grab fleeting opportunities easy for him a path to Paradise. can be Islamic in structure and in this dynamic and fast-paced No people gather together in one spirit, and may be structured as a world. A lone ranger though will of the houses of Allah, reciting mudarabah (joint-venture), where struggle to find his footing amongst the Book of Allah and studying it the financier, or the rabb-ul-mal, the big businesses that dominate among themselves, but tranquillity provides funding for the mudarib, Singapore’s markets. and peace descends upon them, who is the entrepreneur responsible mercy envelopes them, the angels for the full management of the A united Muslim business surround them, and Allah makes business. Our community needs community is an ideal we should all mention of them amongst those to build and support such avenues strive towards. Some may find this who are with Him. And whosoever and platforms so as to efficiently to be naïve, but I believe that it is in is slowed down by his actions link, connect and match resources fact a necessary evolution we need will not be hastened forward by his in the community for inclusive to embrace. The wisdom in this is lineage. growth. This will ensure that small from our own religious teachings (Narrated by Abu Hurayrah (RA), businesses and start-ups have the spread by Prophet Muhammad Sahih Muslim, No 2699) required capital to grow and create (SAW) 1,400 years ago. value for the economy, and their It is time to come full-circle and investors will concurrently earn “The believers are but brothers, lead modern society in its own returns on their now-productive so make settlement between your game. Success is unlikely to come capital. brothers. And fear Allah that you quickly, as culture takes time and may receive mercy.” (Al-Hujurat, effort to change. Culture, however, Within our business community, 49:10) is a matter of utilitarian dialectic, unity is also a key ingredient for and the obvious benefits of being success in the modern marketplace. Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said, united will soon outweigh the Singapore is highly competitive and “Whosoever removes a worldly irrationality of being divided, globalised, which brings significant grief from a believer, Allah will Insha’Allah. TMR challenges and opportunities. High remove from him one of the costs and intense competition are grieves of the Day of Judgment. The writer is Head Investor Relations, two of the most prevalent issues Whosoever alleviates [the lot of] Ethis Pte Ltd (Ethical Investments faced by all businesses. When a needy person, Allah will alleviate Southeast Asia)

the muslim reader 16 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 journal Why New Zealand needs a foster home for Muslim children

text by DAVID ZACHARIAH BLOCKSIDGE

ountries such as Singapore and Malaysia are fortunate to have well-established Islamic infrastructure. Muslims Cwho die are buried in accordance with Islamic tradition. Zakat charity is generally distributed in a fair and equitable manner. Mosques are welcoming, non-controversial places of worship. Orphanages and foster homes exist to look after Muslim children in need of such facilities.

WTG Volunteers on Eid This is not the case in many countries. Take New Zealand. Despite a Muslim population of suitable property. Currently there is The main government agency about 50,000 and growing fast, about NZ$40,000 in the account. responsible for intervention is the it does not have a dedicated A suitable multi-bedroom property Child, Youth and Family (CYF) orphanage/foster home for Muslim would cost at least half a million service of the Ministry of Social children. God willing, this will dollars at today’s prices, so there is Development. They do the best change. a long way to go. they can but need the support of Muslims to care for Muslim children. Appeal for Funds launched What prompted their members to Just before Ramadhan in 2013, the act were the sad stories they were There are many children in need but Auckland-based charity, Working hearing from social workers and it is impossible to obtain accurate Together Group (WTG), launched others involved. statistics because CYF does not do an appeal for funds to purchase a a breakdown by religion.

the muslim reader 17 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 journal

Muslim Furthermore, many Muslims who might otherwise seek help choose children to stay below the radar because placed in non- they do not want to be “registered” or go through “the system”, which Muslim homes they see as stigmatising.

have been “There are scores of such cases known to play every year,” says a professional social worker from Auckland District with the family Health Board. He is also an Islamic dog. Often they scholar. Most weeks, he and his wife spend many hours in their own time are not given counselling some of those who fall halal food. through the cracks in this way. An Islamic, dedicated facility would cater to the needs of various groups of children and youths.

One example is teenagers who have become involved in drugs and alcohol. An unfortunate consequence of their actions is the bad influence they exert on their siblings. However, if they are removed from their family home environment, the problem arises of where to place them while they get help for their addiction or dependency.

Organisations such as the Community Alcohol and Drugs Service (CADS) do great work but do not cater (quite literally, with no halal food on offer) for Muslims, nor offer counselling that is appropriate from an Islamic perspective.

Another group that urgently needs help is the parents of children with disabilities such as Down’s syndrome, autism and ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder). Their parents could use respite care, which could be government- funded, to give themselves a well- deserved break every so often.

Then there are the many victims of STOCK PHOTO domestic violence, usually a family

the muslim reader 18 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 journal member such as the father (or a Muslim children placed in non- Islamic environment away from close male relative) committing Muslim homes have been known their parents for a period, such violence against his children and to play with the family dog. Often situations could have had happy often against his own wife too. they are not given halal food. One outcomes. boy ran away from his foster home When CYF removes these because he was not being fed Some youngsters end up enjoying youngsters from their families, properly. They are not encouraged their newfound “freedom”. Aishah even temporarily until things can to perform their prayers – or not the and Mohamed can become Mary be sorted out, the issue is where prayers of a Muslim, anyway. and James. Some girls, clearly to send them. Most end up in enjoying their “freedom” rather inappropriate homes, with atheists, In one Muslim family, the decent too much, end up prostituting Hindus or Christians caring for parents wanted their children to themselves on Auckland’s notorious them. This creates all sorts of read the Quran for half an hour “K” (for Karangahape) Road. problems. every day. An older child rebelled and left home, taking his siblings It is fair to ask why more married- One girl in her mid-teens – an with him. Muslim couples do not volunteer to impressionable age – started take in such children. After all, the attending church with her Christian In another family, the nine-year-old New Zealand government does pay foster parents. “She was attracted boy refused to go to the Mosque. them for doing so. to Christianity,” explains someone “I don’t want to be a Muslim,” he close to the case, “and no longer said. He was being bullied at school, Concerned about the problem, wears the hijab.” It is worth noting where he had been told: “Your one of the trustees of a big that she had initially been placed religion is violent.” mosque in Auckland, printed flyers, with an uncle but hated it because encouraging parents to sign up he simply used her for babysitting In both these cases, if the children for the necessary CYF training, his own children. could have been placed in an and to take in children. He handed

STOCK PHOTO

the muslim reader 19 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 journal out hundreds of the flyers but the response was nil. “People did not want to get involved,” he explains. ! Some were worried that they might be visited by resentful or angry Do you care! about " parents. the fate of Muslim! kids There are valid reasons why most ! Muslim families cannot take in such in New Zealand?" ! children, and these mainly centre on ! the mahram (unmarriageable kin) / ! non-mahram issue. That makes the ! ! need for a dedicated facility all the ! more pressing. !

! ! WTG is a registered New Zealand

! charity (CC11124). They have no ! paid staff but a dedicated team !! of volunteers. The trustees are

! architect Maan Alzaher, retired ! school principal Ismail Waja, ! surgeon Habib Rahman and ! accountant Mohamed Nalar. ! !

! WTG presently have three ! Sahl ibn Sa’d reported: “The Prophet (pbuh) said, " community projects up and running ! ‘The one who cares for an orphan and myself will be successfully: the Helping Hand ! in Paradise like this’ and he ! held his two fingers together.” food bank, the Janaza Waqf fund (Sahih Bukhari) ! and the free Janaza Service. With ! the support and help of Muslims ! everywhere, the group can succeed ! ! with the foster home project too. ! If you wish to donate, please pay Help establish our first Islamic direct into Working Together orphanage and! foster home." ! Group’s dedicated Kiwibank ! ! account: 38-9006-0434628-04. ! ! Swift code: CITINZ2X. Bank address: ! !

Kiwibank, Level 1, New Zealand ! Post House, 7-27 Waterloo Quay, The writer lived in In New Zealand, abused or at-risk Muslim children are placed in non-Muslim Singapore from homes because almost no Muslim families are able or willing to take them in. Wellington 6011, New Zealand. Or 1992 to 2009. He Government agencies like CYFS do the best they can but need our support. mail a cheque or money order to and his Malay wife We need financial donations to establish a suitable, properly managed home. Please pay direct into Working Together Group’s dedicated Kiwibank account: !

Working Together Group, PO Box Mazlinah now live ! 272 1202, Papakura, Auckland 2244, in New Zealand. 38-9006-0434628-04! ! New Zealand. They are active in Working Together If you would like to know more, please email! [email protected]! Group and other [email protected]! Sahl ibn Sa’d (RA) reported, “The Islamic charities. [email protected]! Prophet (SAW) said, ‘The one who ! WTG is a registered charity. We are all volunteers. cares for an orphan and myself will ! Donations of $5 or more are NZ tax-deductible.! be in Paradise like this’ and he held Visit www.wtg.org.nz or find us on Facebook.! his two fingers together.” (Sahih

Bukhari). TMR

the muslim reader 20 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 lifestyle Hidden Charm With Flavourful Desserts

text by SITI ZUBEIDAH KADIR

La Marelle Café and Boutique Where: 25A Baghdad Street, Singapore 199664 FB: www.fb.com/lamarellecafe Best For: Its wide range of beverages from coffee to mocktails, the pasta, and desserts!

f Alice took a wrong turn in the With a gorgeous interior, beckoning, planning to stay for hours, but rabbit hole and ended up in this almost hypnotic neon lights and perfect for café hopping. The teas particular café, I bet she would graphics galore, one cannot and specialty drinks like tropical have kept thinking that she was help but feel like a kid in a candy sunset or passion sunrise, mocktails still in wonderland. Colourful store. Coffee-drinking, red velvet- with unique names like Amelie, Iand whimsical can be used to consuming not-quite-kids anymore, Blanche or Chloe, are large and can describe this cheery café located on but still eager to get our hands on satiate the thirstiest café go-er, or the second floor of a shophouse on the pretty little notebooks, pens, if you are not that thirsty, it will at Baghdad Street, within the vicinity bags, posters and oh, everything least allow you to lounge around for of Arab Street. else that was on the shelf. a substantially longer period of time appreciating the ambience. If you come by at night, when the While we are not sure whether the colourful signage on the shop front choice of decorations and interior If you are hungry, get the pasta. It blends into the surroundings, you design allows La Marelle to be on is the one (delicious) item on the might want to keep an eye out for the list of hipster cafés in Singapore, menu we would vouch for. Unless the entrance. Blink and you might the menu definitely can. La Marelle you are seriously travel deprived, miss the dark blue stairs leading serves a simple menu, designed to we would advise you to stay up to the café and boutique where keep your choices straightforward, away from the stuffed croissants Alice herself wouldn’t want to leave. i.e. starters, main courses and of from “Mexico, Germany, Italy and (If you cannot locate it even after course, dessert. France”. We are not sure if it was pacing up and down Baghdad a bad batch but the croissant was Street like we did, we recommend If you are a coffee person, the dry, the sausages, tough and almost keeping an eye out for a group of menu and range would satisfy the got lost in the, fortunately, fresh girls who look like they are in need most caffeine deprived, although vegetables and salsa. (We attribute of a good dessert. It usually works.) the servings are too small, to say this to growing pains, since La the least. Not too ideal for those

the muslim reader the muslim reader 21 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 21 lifestyle

Marelle is almost one of the newest kids on the block.)

And if you couldn’t tell by now, it is the desserts that are declared the highlight of the café. If you’re looking for delicious cakes, macaroons, tarts and crumbles, this is the place to go. Unfortunately enclosed in a drab looking display case with dismal lighting, the flavours defied the odds and made it to my ‘best cafés for desserts’ list. Another plus point were the staff, who were a delight to talk to, patiently explaining ingredients of the drinks and how to actually consume the coffee (not as easy as it looks, we tell you).

Overall, this Muslim-owned establishment was a lovely café to visit, especially if you have dainty not-so young children, or are a young at heart female. We are not sure whether the guys felt at ease surrounded by all those bright colours but we know that once the pasta and drinks arrived, all became well for them. TMR

the muslim reader 22 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 house of arqam

Congratulations to YODA Team One, Champion of Singapore Muslim Youth Debate (SMYD) 2014

Khairul Ikhwan Muhd Shahrum Sahid, Noor Aqilah Noor Sakina Banu, aged PHOTOGRAPHS BY Ridzwan, aged aged 23, is currently Azlan, aged 19, is 19, a polytechnic MUHD IRFAN MASLAN 21, is currently working at a local currently studying graduate, won the studying in Nanyang mosque. Biological Science at Best Speaker Award Technological NTU. for the Finals of University (NTU). SMYD 2014.

the muslim reader 23 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 house of arqam

Singapore Muslim Youth Debate 2014, organised by Youths of Darul Arqam (YODA)

Hafifah Hafif, the Chairperson for YODA’s SMYD organising committee, delivered the welcome address. (below)

Held between May and June 2014, the fifth annual instalment of SMYD received participation from 13 teams of debaters. The youths, aged between 15 and 25, included a non-Muslim, Chinese student who represented the team from NUS.

Qari (Quranic Reciter) Muhammad Hanif Salleh, aged 16, from Aljunied Al- Islamiah Madrasah, opened the SMYD Finals event. (left)

On 21 June, the grand final of SMYD was held at Singapore Post Theatrette. The first runner-up for SMYD 2014 is the team from Pergas Student Body (Majlis Pelajar Pergas, or MPP). (right)

the muslim reader 24 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 house of arqam

The motion for the grand final is “Muslim community issues are better tackled at state level than community level”.

The grand final of SMYD 2014 was streamed ‘live’ on Islamicevents.

PHOTOGRAPHS BY MUHD IRFAN MASLAN

The adjudicators for the grand final were Ust Saif-ur-Rahman, Sim Khadijah Mohammed, Nadia Teo, Dr Mohamed Nawab Mohamed Osman, and Ust Hidayat Radja Nurul Bahri. (picture on right, from extreme right to left)

the muslim reader 25 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 lifestyle Arabic for Beginners: The Family al-Usrah

al-Hiwaar The dialogue Ahmad: marHaban Hello / Hi al-Hiwaar The dialogue Khalid: ahlan Hello / Hi (reply) Ahmad: kam shakhSan fii usratik? How many persons in your family? Ahmad: masaa-‘ul khair Good evening Khalid: fii usratii khamsah ashkhaaS There are five persons in my family Khalid: masaa-‘un nuur Good evening to you too Ahmad: maa-shaa-allah, hal Cindaka akh? Wow!(lovely) Do you have a brother? Ahmad: kaifa Haaluka yaa khaalid? How are you Khalid? Khalid: naCam Cindii akh Saghiir, Khalid: bikhair,alHamdulillah,wa anta? ismuhu yuusuf. huwa Taalib. Fine, praise be to Allah, and you? Yes I have a small(younger) brother, his name is Yusuf. He’s a student. Ahmad: tamaam. bil-munaasabah, hal haa-dhihi Suuratu usratika? Ahmad: wa hal Cindaka ukht? Great. By the way, is this your family picture? And do you have a sister?

Khalid: nacam, haa-dhihi Suuratu usratii. Khalid: naCam Cindii ukht kabiirah, Yes, this is my family picture. ismuhaa faaTimah, hiya mudarrisah Yes, I have a big(elder) sister, her name is Fatimah, she’s a teacher Ahmad: man haa-dhaa? Who is this? Ahmad: hal Cindaka zawjah? Do you have a wife? Khalid: haa-dha waalidii waliid. huwa muhandis Khalid: laa, maa Cindii zawjah, This is my father Walid, he’s an engineer anaa aczab No, I don’t have a wife, I’m a bachelor Ahmad: wa man haa-dhihi? And who’s this (f)? Ahmad: shukran thanks Khalid: haa-dhihi waalidatii Maryam. hiya rabbatu bait Khalid: cafwan This is my mum Maryam, she’s a housewife welcome

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VOCABS

Words Arabic Combination Word masaa’ morning masaa-‘ul khair good evening khair and the reply is “masaa-‘un nuur”; goodness (well-being) an evening full of light, is a common reply which would mean wishing that nuur the person’s evening will be bright and light cheerful tamaam great (alright) bi with/by bil-munaasabah munaasabah A phrase used in Arabic, similar to the occasion/event topic switch “by the way” hal? a yes/no question that has the meaning of is/are/do/does? man? who? haa-dhaa / haa-dhihi this (m) / this (f)

Suurah picture Suurah usratii Whenever two nouns or more are Usrah attached, the arrangement will be family inverted in Arabic e.g. “My family picture” becomes “picture of my family”, when the “of” structure is used.

rabb lord / master rabbatu bait this phrase is used for “housewife” in bait Arabic. Literally means master of the house house.

the muslim reader the muslim reader 27 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 27 lifestyle

VOCABS

Words Arabic Combination Word muhandis engineer You can change the gender by adding ah) at the end of the noun) ةـ / ة Taalib (occupation) e.g. student muhandis (male engineer) muhandisah (female engineer); mudarris taalib (male student) teacher taalibah (female student) kam? how many? kam shakhSan? How many people/person? shakhS plural. ashkhaaS person/people cinda c has/have – indahu (he has) c – indahaa (she has) c – indaka (you have;m) – cindaki (you have;f) – cindii (I have)

c – indanaa (we have) In order to negate these words, simply add (maa) before them e.g.

– I don’t have

Saghiir small (young) kabiir big (old) aczab bachelor shukran thanks cafwan welcome

*(m) refers to male and (f) refers to female.

the muslim reader 28 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 lifestyle

Transliteration & Meanings Transliteration & Meanings

1. al-usrah 2. al-Arqaam Numbers

Family waa-Hid waalid / ab One

Father ith-naan / ith-nain waalidah / umm Two

Mother tha-laa-thah Camm Three

Paternal uncle arba-Cah Cammah Four

Paternal auntie kham-sah khaal Five

Maternal uncle sit-tah khaalah Six

Maternal auntie sab-Cah akh Seven

Brother tha-maa-niyah ukht Eight

Sister tis-Cah ibn Nine

Son Casha-rah ibnah / bint Ten

Daughter Sifr jadd zero

Grandfather jaddah

Grandmother hafiid

Grandson hafiidah

Granddaughter www.as-souq.com zawj

Husband zawjah wife Page name: As-Souq (www.facebook.com/ As.Souq.AllAboutArabic)

“Learn Arabic, for it strengthens the intelligence and increases one’s noble conduct (al-muruu’ah)” - Omar Ibn al-Khattab (RA) Website: www.as-souq.com

the muslim reader the muslim reader 29 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 29 spotlight The Growth of Halal Trade Serving the demands of the Muslim consumers throughout the world.

text by HYDER GULAM

or a multitude of reasons, which falls under this category is is very well served by the Islamic including growing affluence permitted for consumption. Most Religious Council of Singapore and greater choices for food and drinks are considered (MUIS) as the sole custodian of travel and destinations, Halal unless they are stated Halal certification in Singapore. the Muslim community has clearly in the Quran and Hadith as Established in 1978, the MUIS Fbecome a major market for travel, forbidden or non-Halal. Halal certification mark is widely trade and other Halal segments recognised in key Halal markets such as the food supply chain. b) Non-Halal. ‘Non-Halal’, such as Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia Many businesses are seeing the also traditionally known as ‘Haram’, and the Gulf Cooperation Council demand created by this segment, means unlawful or unallowable. As (GCC) countries through MABIMS including not only banking and the name implies, any food or drink (an international organisation finance, but also in terms of Halal which is classified as non-Halal consisting of Brunei, Indonesia, tours overseas and the like. Never is prohibited for consumption. In Malaysia, and Singapore that before has the Muslim community general, all harmful things are non- explains Islam to their communities) had such an opportunity to partake Halal. Examples of these include and GCC-Singapore Free Trade in these activities, under a Halal the meat of dead animals and birds, Agreements. framework. This article will look at flesh of swine, intoxicating drugs these industry segments from a and alcoholic beverages. MUIS issues Halal certificates Singaporean point of view. based on a set of systems-focused c) Syubhah. Any food or drink Halal certification requirements which lies within the grey area and Food known as the Singapore MUIS does not fall clearly under the Halal Using a simplified framework vis- Halal Quality Management System or non-Halal category is classified à-vis an Islamic worldview, all food (HalMQ). To date, MUIS offers as ‘Syubhah’, alternatively called and drinks can be classified under a number of Halal certification questionable or dubious. one of the following categories: schemes that span across the food supply chain. To see and a) Halal. ‘Halal’ is an Arabic In the Singaporean context, when appreciate the value of MUIS in word which means lawful or one examines the Halal food terms of the food supply chain, one allowable. Any food or drink segment, the Muslim community only needs to examine the trust put

the muslim reader 30 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 spotlight

Services such as Halal holidays are booming. in the Halal certification mark by The Halal tourism industry also Islamic Shariah (Legislation) and is the Muslim consumer in Singapore. provides flights where no alcohol free of any substances forbidden or pork products are served, by Islam, such as pork and alcohol. Travel and Tourism prayer timings are announced, Some hotels have employed Halal Trade and Travel takes the and religious programmes are people from the Muslim world definitions noted above even broadcast as part of entertainment to provide translation services further, and looks at the Halal offered on board. A Euromonitor and other assistance that may be tourism as a subcategory of International report released at needed by tourists from Muslim religious tourism, which is geared World Travel Market in 2007 in countries. towards Muslim families who abide London says that there is potential by the rules noted above. The for a boom in Halal tourism in the The Economist’s article on Halal hotels in such destinations do not Middle East. The report mentions a Business published on 25 May 2013 serve alcohol and have separate market for a Halal start-up airline, states: “It is not just manufactured swimming pools and spa facilities which could provide Halal food, Halal products. Services such as for men and women. Malaysia, prayer calls, Quran in seat pockets Halal holidays are booming, too. Turkey and many more countries and provide separate sections for Crescent Tours, a London-based are trying to attract Muslim male and female travellers. online travel specialist, books tourists from all over the world, clients into hotels in Turkey that offering facilities in accordance Many international hotels do serve have separate swimming pools with the religious beliefs of Muslim Halal food that is slaughtered in for men and women, no-alcohol tourists. accordance with the teachings of policies and halal restaurants, and

the muslim reader 31 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 spotlight rents out private holiday villas with and Tunisia. The tiny island state such as alcohol, pornography, high walls.” touts its man-made attractions, gaming and tobacco, but also a vast array of local food, and industries and businesses which Malaysia is the world’s friendliest reputation for cleanliness and derive their profits primarily destination for Muslim travellers, order to travellers. The top ten from interest or usury such as according to a survey released in order were: Malaysia, United conventional lending institutions. recently, but Japan has shown most Arab Emirates, Turkey, Indonesia, improvement as it ramps up efforts Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Morocco, Halal Business is considered to cash in on a growing market. Jordan, Qatar and Tunisia. an alternative approach to Malaysia was followed by the United conventional methods and is based Arab Emirates, Turkey, Indonesia The Crescentrating system rates on the principles of Islamic Finance. and Saudi Arabia in this year’s overall Halal friendliness on a scale According to Islamic principles, rankings for “Halal” friendly holiday of one to seven, with seven being conventional financial systems are destinations released by Singapore- the highest rating. The service unsustainable because the use of based Muslim travel specialist ratings are separated into four money as a commodity in and of Crescentrating. different areas: itself results in an imbalance of wealth at the expense of society The survey evaluates countries in • Halal food facilities and borrowers. terms of their attentiveness to the • Salat (prayer) facilities needs of Muslim travellers, including • Services during Ramadhan Some Halal Businesses use an the presence and accessibility • Level of non-Halal activities in industry screen, where from an of Halal restaurants with meat the hotel and additional Halal- industry perspective, a company is slaughtered to Islamic standards, friendly recreational facilities deemed compliant if the total sum and the provision of prayer rooms of non-permissible income derived at airports, shopping malls and Halal Business from the following is less than 5% of hotels. Halal Business is the practice of their total revenue. The second step investing money in a manner that of the screening process examines Singapore was placed sixth in the meets the tenets of Islamic finance. whether a company is primarily global rankings, and was the only A Halal Business, in particular Halal profiting from interest or usury, or non-Muslim country in the top 10, Finance and Investments would if the business has taken on a large followed by Morocco, Jordan, Qatar therefore not only avoid industries amount of interest-based debt. Specifically, companies will fail Halal parameters if any of the following conditions exist.

The use of an Islamic or Shariah Advisory Board is also another way which Halal Businesses are able to provide compliance with their business practices. These boards are generally composed of experts in Islam, Islamic Banking and Finance as well as commercial acumen.

Summary This short article has attempted to show the burgeoning field of Islamic principles in various industry segments. As it can be seen, it is possible to live a life that is compliant The Great Mosque in Sousse, Tunisia. with Islamic principles. TMR

the muslim reader 32 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 opinion When Caring for the Environment is Caring for Ourselves

As trustees of the earth, Muslims need to be active in environmental conservation.

text by SHARIFAH ZUBAIDAH A KADER ALJUNID

ntroduction of existence. It is, so to speak, a conservation. Although Islam The environment, for many of source for us to think about our clearly advocates the importance us today, is a place to live and wonderful world of Nature, on how of cleanliness and the avoidance to obtain all our worldly needs. it can become a useful avenue to of harm, it is unfortunate that For Muslims, the environment is advance the cause of our human issues relating to sanitation and Imore than a source of sustenance well-being, derived from the names public health, as well as man-made and a locus for habitation. The and attributes of God that become threats to the environment, are still many splendored things of the our inspiration for our human widespread in Muslim communities. environment are signs, called Ayat, meaning. It is crucial to highlight the various that allude to higher meanings guiding principles available in the of existence. But above all, they Although the relationship between Quran and Hadith on environmental allude to God, to Allah (SWT), man and his environment is a conservation through accountability as the reality that stands behind fundamental concept in Islam, and proper governance. the environment and its contents, awareness of this concept and and therefore, the environment is the religious discourse about how Environmental Destruction actually a mirror reflecting the many this relationship is to be translated Thanks to the rapid development names of God and His Attributes. into practice by Muslims is sadly in science and technology, man As such, the environment is a very lacking. A more worrying sign is is now in the position where he significant source of intellection and the seeming lack of commitment can transform the environment in contemplation, inasmuch as it is a amongst the Muslim community countless ways. If done wisely, such necessary source for our continuity in regard to environmental knowledge and technology could

the muslim reader the muslim reader 33 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 33 opinion bring benefits to the human race. The concept balance. The Intergovernmental However, when such knowledge Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and technology are wrongly or integrates three has noted that since the start of heedlessly applied, the same can the Industrial Era (about 1750), the wreak havoc and harm to human main dimensions, overall effect of human activities beings and the environment. on climate has been a warming namely, ECONOMY, influence (IPCC’s 4th Assessment Human activities have and will Report, 2007) and that the human continue to contribute to climate SOCIAL and THE impact on climate during this era change by causing changes in the ENVIRONMENT, greatly exceeds those caused Earth’s atmosphere in the amounts by known changes in natural of greenhouse gases, aerosols thus indicating a processes, such as solar changes (small particles) and cloudiness and volcanic eruptions. discharged into the atmosphere. shift from just aiming The largest known contribution Environmental Conservation comes from the burning of fossil at material gains to versus Sustainable Development fuels which release carbon dioxide The earth that we live in is a that alter incoming solar radiation the achievement of biosphere - a unique, indivisible and the outgoing infra-red radiation ecosystem and all of its that are part of the Earth’s energy SOCIAL JUSTICE. diverse constituent parts are interdependent. The biosphere is the part of the earth where life is possible and includes the atmosphere (air), lithosphere (land) and hydrosphere (water).

The term ‘environmental conservation’ is no longer widely used in the context of protecting the environment as the quest for the last three decades is about ‘sustainable development’. This is borne from the recognition that man needs development in order to thrive and sustain a good quality of life on this earth. In this quest, notions such as upward movement of the entire social order, eradication of poverty, reduction of inequalities, removal of regional imbalances and above all environmental concerns invaded the notion of development. This resulted in the addition of the word ‘sustainable’ to development.

What then is sustainable development? The most widely accepted definition is that sustainable development is development that meets the needs of the present without

the muslim reader 34 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 opinion compromising the ability of believers to render the trusts future generations to meet their “Yea, unto Allah belong all (amanah) to whom that they own needs (Brundtland Report, things in the heavens and on belong. The Quran and Hadith make 1987). This is sometimes referred earth, and enough is Allah to amanah represents an integral part to as ‘inter-generational equity’. carry through all affairs.” of the Muslim faith and designates The concept itself has evolved (An-Nisa, 04:132) amanah as a hallmark of faithful over the years and is still in the Muslims. process of being reformulated The above verses show that Allah and translated into national (SWT) is the True Owner while Allah (SWT) says: commitments under the umbrella mankind merely holds the earth “(Believers are) those who of the United Nations. It began on a temporary basis (majazi). fulfil their trusts (amanat) with the main aim of reducing Allah (SWT) has created this world and observe their promises poverty through preservation of for mankind’ and the land, the and commitments.” the natural foundations of life and environment and other natural (Al-Mu’minoon, 23:08) calls for a fair distribution of goods resources are GIFTS from Allah and opportunities. The concept (SWT). Also, Prophet Muhammad integrates three main dimensions, (SAW) was reported to have said: namely, economy, social and the Mankind, on the other hand, is a environment, thus indicating a khalifah, or trustee of Allah (SWT) “One who betrays his trust shift from just aiming at material in dealing with His property on this (amanah) has no faith”. gains to the achievement of social earth including land. This is the justice. This sits well with Islam to concept of ‘stewardship’ in Islam. Conclusion the extent that it seeks a balance Hence, there should not be pilfering The above discussion strengthens between economy, society and and wastage. the fact that if one were a good and the environment, and puts the steadfast practising Muslim, there satisfaction of the ‘non-material’ “It is He Who has made you should be no ‘mischief’ on this earth (spiritual) needs of the people on (His) agents, inheritors of that would lead to environmental the same footing as material needs the earth: He has raised degradation. It is about fulfilment for achieving economic progress. you in ranks, some above of a divine trust and those who take (Zubair Hasan, 2006). others: that He may try you this trust seriously will, Insha’Allah, in the gifts He has given be able to become change agents Islam and the Environment you: for your Lord is quick in society to create the needed The Quran contains numerous in punishment: yet He is awareness for environmental guidelines with regard to treatment indeed Oft-Forgiving, Most conservation. May Allah (SWT) of the earth and other creations Merciful.” pave the way for us to become of Allah (SWT) in such a way that (Al-An‘am, 06:165) responsible Muslims. Indeed, Islam the wahy, or revelation, intimately itself is not adverse to the idea of connects itself with the idea of “Believe in Allah and His development as the Quran has sacredness of nature. Messenger, and spend in many verses expressly stated (in charity) out of the that man is to inhabit the earth The Quran proclaims Allah (SWT) (substance) whereof He has and should establish a balanced as absolute owner of the earth. made you heirs. For, those of way of life without excesses and you who believe and spend deficiencies. This is known as the “Said Moses to his people: (in charity) - for them is a concept of I’mar in Islam, which “Pray for help from Allah, great Reward.” includes spreading and settling in and (wait) in patience and (Al-Hadid, 57:07) all parts of the earth and engaging constancy: for the earth is in positive activities that could bring Allah’s, to give as a heritage The earth is made subjected to man about prosperity - but a prosperity to such of His servants as but man will be held accountable that will not put the environment, He pleases; and the end is for his use of this gift. Here lies the and inadvertently ourselves, who (best) for the righteous.” concept of amanah or trusteeship. are the trustee to the well-being of

(Al-A’raf, 07:128) Allah (SWT) commands the the environment, in harm’s way. TMR

the muslim reader 35 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 lifestyle

The Importance of Two Languages Pustaka Nasional launched a series of books in both English and Malay.

text by NUR AZEEMAH KADIR

n our fast paced and A series of children’s books was The event was graced by the Guest competitive society, a good launched on 5 April 2014 in The of Honour: Associate Professor grasp of English is critical to Chamber of The Arts House. These Hadijah Rahmat who is the Deputy ensure that our intentions can books are a fun and engaging Head of the Asian Languages and be understood clearly. More way for children to be exposed to Culture Academic Group at the Ioften than not, whilst focusing on both the English as well as Malay National Institute of Education the attainment of perfect English, Language. Books of the same plot (NIE). She emphasised on the our command of our mother tongue and content were produced in importance of young children might become weaker. With the two different versions: English and to be exposed to books from an introduction of dual language Malay. Written by a group of Malay early age. She also commended books, Pustaka Nasional had language trainee teachers at NIE, Pustaka Nasional for the creative started a new initiative to tackle this this book series is the first attempt move of publishing books of dual issue. at publishing a book series of this language so that one language will nature. not be overlooked for the sake of

the muslim reader 36 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 lifestyle

improving the other language. that were written by the group of Of greater importance is the trainee teachers. With its engaging issue of the demand of Children’s contents and relatable plots, it is Literature in the local scene. not difficult to see why these stories Associate Professor Hadijah Rahmat have been chosen for publication. emphasised that these publications have to be supported by the public Featured titles of the series include: so that other books like these can Bam!, The Little Chef (Cef Cilik), be further produced. Without the What a Noise (Bisingnya!), How demand from the public, books like Many Days to Hari Raya (Berapa these will be deemed as unpopular Hari Lagi Hari Raya?) and Budi the and will thus cease to exist. The Hardworking Bear (Budi Beruang importance of upholding our Yang Rajin). All the books have culture through books should not been meticulously edited by Dr be taken lightly as it is books that Mukhlis Abu Bakar, who is an mould our thinking and allow us to associate professor in NIE and a appreciate the uniqueness of our trained professional in the area of culture that might otherwise be literacy education. overlooked or taken for granted. Books can be purchased from This delightful series features http://www.kedai.pustakaislamiyah. books of various themes: from com.sg/ or alternatively, you familiar tales of children getting can call 6745 4321. If you are still excited for Hari Raya (Eid), to more unsure, you can search the Pustaka unconventional stories like a little Nasional Pte Ltd facebook page chef helping her father whip up where you will be able to find out a delicious meal in the kitchen. more information about the books, The selected stories were picked as well as trailers of the charming

from a batch of 30 other stories books that were launched. TMR

the muslim reader 37 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 lifestyle 1,001 Things You Never Knew

Find out more about the contributions of past Muslims that shaped modern civilization as we know it.

text by ABDUL GHAFAR ABDUL KADIR

ou must have heard that 1001 Inventions exhibitions, which metre space, there is something the Muslim Civilization has made its rounds across various for the most inquisitive. Split into has brought to us many continents since 2010. several zones, with each representing inventions and discoveries a different sphere of scientific and that are still useful till Its aim, to recognise and promote cultural achievement, the exhibitions Ytoday, but have you ever wondered accurately, advances and recreate the Golden Age of Discovery what they actually are? If you want discoveries in Science Technology that had a great but almost unknown to know a little more about all the and the Arts made during the impact on our world today. discoveries made during the Islamic Muslim Civilization, from the 7th Golden Age, then you are in luck. century onwards. In doing so, it The exhibition will allow visitors hopes to show the origins of the to relive the era when many men Founded by the Foundation current scientific understanding, so and women of different faiths and for Science, Technology and that there is a greater appreciation backgrounds, including Christians Civilization (FSTC), a non-profit of contributions from scholars in and Jews, worked hand in hand foundation made up of respected the past towards the advancement with Muslims, some traveling academics from all over the world, of science and technology today. thousands of miles to share or the brand, 1001 Inventions, aims to The accuracy of the content of the to seek knowledge. It also shows provide you with insights to an era materials and the exhibition has how the Muslim Civilization was which flourished with inventions been researched by academics, influenced and enriched by the and advancements in various fields famous in their own fields, which knowledge received from older and like the Sciences, Engineering, was then reviewed by a network of more advanced societies, such as Mathematics, and Astronomy. leading experts from Universities the Greeks and the Persians. A key and Museums globally. takeaway from the exhibition is that 1001 Inventions was conceptualised advancements in various fields that as a global brand, with products From the website, the exhibitions seem we enjoy today was not because comprising of educational materials like a sight to behold. With interactive of one particular race, rather, it is a like books, videos, films, teaching exhibits, in the form of electronic product of ideas and effort of many resources, and the visually and games, and multimedia showcases races, society and cultures during experientially most exciting, the spread out over a large 800-square- that era.

the muslim reader 38 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 lifestyle

DID YOU KNOW The exhibition currently tours in ‘1001 Inventions: The Enduring English and Arabic, and has plans Legacy of Muslim Civilization’ THAT MANY OF to be translated into many different For those who are unable to relive THE ACCEPTED languages to cater to a global the Golden Age of Discovery audience. With such grandeur, it through the exhibitions, there is THEORIES REGARDING is such a shame it did not make another way you can immerse HUMAN VISION AND a quick stop in Singapore after a yourself in that era. With a book 7-month stint in Kuala Lumpur, entitled ‘1001 Inventions: The INVENTIONS LIKE Malaysia, between October 2013 Enduring Legacy of Muslim CAMERAS WERE MADE and May 2014. You might want Civilization’ - the collaborated to visit its website at http:// efforts of National Geographic BY MUSLIMS FROM www.1001inventions.com to see and 1001 Inventions, you can have where its next stop would be. comprehensive details of the THE GOLDEN AGE OF academic revolution in the palm DISCOVERY? Reading Materials of your hands. Readers will be thrilled with the contents of the book, compiled in a way that allows readers to scrutinise each detail in many possible angles. In the first few pages of the book, readers are able to find a map, which points out where the different discoveries were made. For history buffs concerned with dates, there is also a timeline which begins from the death of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), and which indicates the year each discovery was made.

The book is divided into eight sections, with the first section comprising of a brief summary of what readers will expect in the other seven. The other seven are broad groups of discoveries divided by the editor into the following sections; Home, School, Market, Hospital, Town, World and Universe.

Did you know that many of the accepted theories regarding human vision and inventions like cameras were made by Muslims from the Golden Age of Discovery? A thinker named Al-Kindi pioneered theories in this field, in which was later developed into the pillars of ‘scientific’ knowledge used in the field of vision till today. Al-Kindi was also famous for rejecting the once popular theory that human vision was formed by rays coming out

the muslim reader 39 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 lifestyle from our eyes, and insisted on the For knowledge-hungry adults, the them to sleep, you may want to fact that vision is formed through book is available in many countries rejoice that there is a similar book, the light that enters our eyes from around the world, with details of catered towards young minds. Also items which reflect it. Known as one these distributors easily available published by National Geographic, of the ‘twelve giant minds of history’, on 1001 Inventions’ website (http:// ‘1001 Inventions & Awesome Facts Al-Kindi is a perfect example of www.1001inventions.com/media/ From Muslim Civilization’ will how men from the Golden Age of book/global-distributors). thrill and satiate even the most Discovery were able to discover and curious of children. Although most clearly state theories in their own ‘1001 Inventions & Awesome Facts information found in this book field, turning it into a starting point From Muslim Civilization’ is also in the adult version, this for others to work on. The book If you are keen on exposing your book has been altered specifically highlights their successes as well children to such interesting facts for children. Filled with attractive as details their failures, noting how from the Muslim Civilization but pictures and illustrations, eye- each event made an impact to our are concerned that they may be catching to readers of any age, the modern day living. dry pieces of facts that will put book contains bite-sized facts so that your children will never get bored. The facts are short, concise and succinct but are not any less interesting.

The arrangement of the book is also different from the one for adults; where each page turns into a new discovery (or topic) for the children. For example, there is a section entitled ‘Soaring Facts about Flight’, dedicated to historical facts about flying, entails how the success and failures of a Muslim man from the 9th century, who attempted to fly, eventually led to the success of the Wright Brothers and modern day flight. Interestingly, the book makes it a point to show the children that not all successes in that era is attributed to Muslims. This, along with all other details in both books point out that Muslim and non- Muslims alike, are somehow linked and interdependent in terms of knowledge and discovery, and how everything could not be so perfectly in place without a Greater Force orchestrating it. If we are to look at the conveniences we have today and consider, in retrospect, we will be able to see how Allah (SWT) has allowed us, His creations, to enjoy life through the discoveries

and inventions of others. TMR

the muslim reader 40 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 leap of faith Rizq and Barakah as I understand it From painful lessons, our writer became better aware of God’s blessings upon her.

text by SIM KHADIJAH MOHAMMED

RIZQ IS THE CONCEPT OF ALLAH’S (SWT) BLESSINGS TO MAN IN MATERIAL FORM. BARAKAH IS THE VALUE WITH WHICH THAT MATERIAL BLESSING IS IMBUED BY ALLAH (SWT).

ay (O Muhammad “rich” folks never seem to attain which he is grateful, Allah (SWT) [SAW]): ‘All the bounty happiness, despite their apparent may put more value or barakah in is in the Hands of Allah; wealth? Well, I have. And I have that $10 than the value or barakah He grants to whom He found a way to reconcile these that is put into Roslan’s $100. Ali’s wills. And Allah is All- strange truths with concepts that $10 may then “stretch” to cover his “SSufficient for His creatures’ needs, are taught to me in my religion. Let expenses for 3 days, while Roslan’s the All-Knower.’” me first begin by setting out some $100 may be swiftly depleted in (Al-Imran, 03:73) definitions of rizq and barakah, as I a single receipt. To the objective understand them, before I share my bystander, Roslan is “richer” than Ali. “Say: ‘Truly, my Lord enlarges the viewpoints with you. But, in truth, Ali is the richer of the provision for whom He wills of his two. What, then, is the difference slaves, and (also) restricts (it) for To my mind, rizq is the concept between Ali and Roslan, such that him, and whatsoever you spend of of Allah’s (SWT) blessings to man Ali is better off? In my view, that anything (in Allah’s Cause), He will in material form. So a person’s difference is, and must be shukr, replace it. And He is the Best of house, salary, children or even an or gratitude. As Muslims, we are Providers.’” opportunity which is awarded to taught that if we are grateful for (Saba’, 34:39) that person is his rizq from Allah the blessings bestowed upon us by (SWT). On the other hand, barakah Allah (SWT), we will not only be Have you ever wondered why is the value with which that material better off in our own context, but be some “poor” folks are the happiest blessing is imbued by Allah (SWT). in a better position to assist others. people on earth, whilst some So, for example, if Ali has $10 for One whose needs are satisfactorily

the muslim reader 41 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 leap of faith met is better placed to help those in greater need.

Travelling light back to his Creator Our beloved Prophet (SAW) was very much alive to these concepts, and therefore chose a life of simplicity, so as to maximise the benefit that he could confer upon others. He slept on a mat in a sparse room, much to the surprise of leaders who visited him at his quarters. They would remark that such a lifestyle was unbecoming of a man of his stature, and his response would be that he was a mere traveller in this world, and he intended to travel light on his journey back to his Creator.

SubhanAllah (Glory be to God)! If the leader of the Muslim ummah lived in such simplicity, who are we to hoard and covert material wealth? I do not pretend to live a life of simplicity. I have an iPhone, an iPad and a laptop computer. I live in a rented apartment which is very much in excess of the space and comforts that I need. I was given a good education, and am blessed with a steady stream of income. But I am well aware that just as Allah (SWT) has seen fit to bestow these blessings upon me, so too can He revoke them just as easily. Being alive to this fact has made me grateful for what I have, and has instilled in me a sense of responsibility towards those who may not have been so fortunate. I forget this, from time to time, but Alhamdullilah (Praise be to God), Allah (SWT) has seen fit to constantly remind my complacent heart of these wisdoms. I was not always this way. I am ashamed to admit that I once lived in an apartment way beyond my means. I took pride in the designer furniture and appliances that If the leader of the Muslim ummah lived in such simplicity, who are we to adorned my beautifully-renovated covert material wealth?

the muslim reader 42 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 leap of faith

ONE MORNING, I HAD FORGOTTEN TO TAKE SOME COINS FROM MY SAVINGS BOTTLE, AND ONLY HAD $4 ON ME TO LAST THE ENTIRE DAY.

I bought a pack of 3 epok-epok and had 2 for breakfast, saving 1 for lunch .

again, I told myself – after all, I was To give or not to give blessed with an able body and mind, To my pleasant surprise, I chanced home. I was heavily in debt, but Alhamdullilah (Praise be to God). upon a Malay food stall which was craved more material goods to What mattered was that I left with selling 3 epok-epoks (curry puffs) fill an inexplicable void in my life. my dignity intact. for $1. I bought a pack of 3 and had Then came my divorce which took 2 for breakfast, saving 1 for lunch. a further unexpected toll on my Then one day, I had an epiphany. On my way to work, I was tempted finances. I was left with almost to buy a soya bean drink which nothing, and had chosen to leave I had been saving my 1 dollar coins would have cost $1.40, but decided most of my material possessions and 50 cent coins in a bottle for a against it. As I took my usual route and all of the gifts and jewellery rainy day, and it seemed that I was to my office building, I passed a from my ex-husband behind, to in the midst of the monsoon season. “tissue paper auntie” in a wheelchair. achieve a fresh start. I refused to One morning, I had forgotten to take “To give or not to give?”, I asked engage in petty battles over what some coins from my savings bottle myself. And I gave $2 out of my contributions were owed to me. before I left for work, and found, to remaining $3 to her. I reasoned in Instead, I chose to walk away and my horror, that I only had $4 worth my head that she needed the money start over, with what little I had in of coins on me to last the entire day. more than I did. After all, I had a my pockets. It mattered not that What on earth could I buy with $4, spare epok-epok to tide me through I had to build my life over from such that I would be able to sustain the day! scratch. Money could be earned myself?

the muslim reader 43 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 leap of faith

bestowed, they would have received more barakah in their rizq, and would always be in surplus.

Never mine to keep In that moment, when my objective wealth was lacking, I felt more blessed than I had ever felt in my life. I knew that Allah (SWT) had seen fit to teach me a painful lesson for not having been grateful and responsible for the wealth that had previously been bestowed upon me. It was not mine to keep; it had never been mine to keep. I was merely its trustee, and needed to act accordingly, to fulfil my obligations to Allah (SWT).

I am in a better financial state now, Alhamdullilah (Praise be to God), but I know that this is only due to my awareness of my blessings and my obligations. So I walk a fine line, occasionally tipping over to each Then I got to the office and realised I GOT TO THE OFFICE side as I go, but ever grateful for to my joy that, first of all, I had an AND what I have. unopened bottled drink on my desk REALISED from the day before. Secondly and THAT IT WAS If everyone understood more importantly, it was Wednesday Just imagine the world we could live and my office would be serving free WEDNESDAY AND in, if everyone understood rizq and lunch that day. “This must be my MY OFFICE WOULD barakah in this way. There would lucky day”, I remarked to myself, BE be no hoarding; there would be no and indeed it was, for I still had a SERVING poverty. The objectively “rich” would spare epok-epok in case I needed always care for the objectively to stay back late to work, and an FREE LUNCH “poor”, and no one would take more additional $1 coin with which I could THAT DAY. than they needed from the singular buy a drink from the office vending “pot of gold” placed on earth by machine. I reflected upon the irony Allah (SWT). Yes, the John Lennon of how happy I was to have these song is ringing in my head, but what little intangible blessings, when I’d of gratitude, those of us who are is so wrong with being a dreamer? previously had an insatiable thirst blessed with more rizq are trustees for material goods. Then it dawned of that wealth. We can choose to I once read a quote by Mahatma on me. squander it, in which case our rizq Gandhi, “Be the change you want would not be imbued with barakah. I’m starting Wealth is not merely a blessing. It We would therefore need more to see in the world.” with me, and I sincerely hope that is also a responsibility. Allah (SWT) than what we have already been someday you will join me, so that bestows more objective wealth on given. It is for this reason that some the world can be as one, as it was some and less on others, to see if “rich” folk seem to always need always meant to be. TMR they will meet this obligation of more, because their thirst is never distributing wealth according to quenched. Had they been grateful The writer is a born-Muslim of Chinese- their needs and the needs of others. and observed their responsibilities Malay descent. Her father was a Convert Quite apart from being in a state in relation to the wealth they were to Islam in the 1970s.

the muslim reader 44 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 house of arqam

Lectures by Sheikh Alaa Elsayed, from 13 to 16 February 2014

Lecture topics: Marriage: Bliss or Blues? True Love for the Prophet (SAW) Recapturing Hearts For the Love of God!

PHOTOGRAPHS BY MUHD IRFAN MASLAN

The lectures on 13 and 14 February were held at Darul Arqam Auditorium, while the lectures on 15 and 16 February were held at Max Atria, Singapore Expo.

Sheikh Alaa Elsayed lives in Greater Toronto Area, Canada, where he serves as the Director of Religious Affairs for the Islamic Centre of Canada-ISNA. He is also a member of the Canadian Council of Imams. He has hosted Vision of Islam, a weekly TV show which runs through Alberta, Canada.

the muslim reader 45 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 Congratulations Al-Mawrid Essay Winners 2013 LIBRARY theme: thankfulness (shukr)

1st: Lee Swaleha Afandi

2nd: Humairah M Jamil

3rd: Sia Jingyun Erna Sharida

3rd: Nurfarahin M Amin

and thank you to all who participated in the competition. the muslim reader 46 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 leap of faith Being Thankful

Al-Mawrid Essay Competition 2013 winning entry for the theme of thankfulness (shukr). text by LEE SWALEHA AFANDI

hankfulness is the expression of gratitude for a bounty that one receives. A true believer is one that is ever grateful for the Tnumerous bounties bestowed upon him by the Almighty.

Ever wondered why a Muslim says Alhamdulillah (All thanks be to Allah) after a sneeze? To the common person, a sneeze is regarded as a bother due to the mess produced by the nasal passage. To others, it may be an annoyance because it results in the spreading of germs. But the response of a believer is different. Instead of complaining, he is grateful for the sneeze because he knows that it comes from Ar- Rahman (The Compassionate),

the muslim reader the muslim reader 47 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 47 leap of faith and for him there are numerous benefits.

Sneezing is the process of expulsion of harmful particles through the nose and mouth accompanied by mucus and air. Medical research has proven that sneezing has many health benefits for the human body. Doctors say that sneezing is the body’s mechanism to eliminate tiny microorganisms such as bacteria and viruses from the respiratory passage, which would otherwise be detrimental to one’s well-being. So the next time, you feel a sneeze coming, embrace it and thank Allah (SWT) for it, as has been taught to us by our beloved Prophet Muhammad (SAW):

“If one of you sneezes, then pronounce Alhamdulillah, and let those who BUT HOW MANY THERE ARE A PEOPLE WHO HAVE hear it respond with Yarhamukallahu (may THE BEST SPREAD OF FOOD LAIN BEFORE THEM, God have mercy on you), BUT ARE UNABLE TO EAT EVEN A MORSEL AS and if answered so, they greet with the greeting ALLAH (SWT) DID NOT PERMIT THEM TO DO SO. Yahdikumullahu wa Yushlihubaalakum (may God give you guidance and So as grateful believers, we should away from us. And that is why as improve your condition)”. always remember to thank Allah Muslims we are taught to recite the (Bukhari) (SWT) for the sustenance he has following supplication after exiting provided us with, by reciting the the latrine: Ever thought why we thank Allah following supplication after each (SWT) as soon as we complete a meal: “O Allah I seek your meal? To the common person, he forgiveness. All praise is to is able to feed himself only through “All praise belongs to Allah, Allah who has taken away the means of his own hard work and who fed us and quenched from me the discomfort and efforts. But how many there are a our thirst and made us granted me comfort”. people who have the best spread Muslims.” (Bukhari) of food laid before them, but are (Ibn Al Sunni) unable to eat even a morsel as Allah In conclusion, Islam teaches us (SWT) did not permit them to do And lastly, the commonly to be ever grateful for even the so. Moreover, there are people in overlooked blessing is the process slightest benefits that may seem poverty-stricken countries who die of relieving oneself. It allows for the insignificant to us, but as a whole from thirst and starvation every few removal of toxins from the body and plays a vital role in our daily lives. minutes. In contrast, the believer prevents the build-up of waste in And as such, we are encouraged knows that the food he obtains is the digestive system. We take it for to moisten our tongues frequently only through the provision of the granted and often only realise the with the glorification of Allah (SWT).

Ar-Raziq (The Sustainer). value of it when this ability is taken Alhamdulillah. TMR

the muslim reader 48 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 leap of faith The Ordinary Convert Find out what some Converts have to say about their life after embracing Islam. text by CANDY MAK @ NADIA MAK

ou may be curious to know what changes other Converts experience through their journey in Islam. You may also feel Ythe need to compare your journey with someone else’s… perhaps to check if you are undergoing similar experiences like his or hers.

Let it be said that every Muslim journeys through Islam in their own way. Our families and social backgrounds are unique. Our days, weeks and years are experienced on wildly dissimilar terms. It is how we ride the challenges and how we count the blessings, Insha’Allah, day-to-day, week-to- week, and then year-to-year – that matters.

From this perspective, the ordinary life becomes extraordinary. And in this article, we celebrate The Ordinary Convert. We hear three candid stories about their journey thus far.

Name one thing in your life that has changed since you converted Family relationships. I grew closer to my family and learnt to appreciate them more, especially since they Israr with his wife, Farah. have accepted and respected my

the muslim reader 49 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 leap of faith decision, and supported me a lot throughout this ongoing journey. I never expected them to embrace my conversion with such grace and understanding. Though not entirely necessary, my mum even bought new pots and utensils so that she can cook for my husband and I! ~ Mysha

Diet was one of the biggest changes I’ve experienced since conversion. The need to observe a Halal diet as a Chinese is very testing at times. ~ Israr

Giving up short dresses and other revealing outfits; change of diet; adjusting to the prayer routine. ~ Nur’Ain

Name one thing in your life that has not changed since you converted Thankfully, my weight has not Mysha with her family, Idil and Ihsan. changed much despite living on a new diet of yummy lontong and ayam masak merah, made with Who has played an important role I’ve learnt to recite the verses from much love from my husband’s in your journey so far? Surat al-Ikhlas daily with Farah family and relatives. My husband. We are open in our after our prayers. It emphasises the discussion about practices and oneness and purity of Allah, and And, I guess my parents still love beliefs, for example, about what is that there is no one but Him. All evil me as much – that doesn’t change! haram and what is halal. We try to beings are but nothing compared to ~ Mysha attend workshops together to learn Allah and I have no worries if I seek (and relearn, for him). We also try refuge in Allah. It was especially Many things have not changed in to pray together at home where meaningful and useful in recent my life. Being a Muslim is like being possible. He guides me along the testing times. a character in a game who has the way. ~ Israr option to “upgrade”. One continues ~ Mysha being the same person, but with My husband has played the most Allah’s teachings and philosophy, My wife, Farah, has played the important role so far. one becomes a “stronger” and single most important role in my ~ Nur’Ain better version of himself in the journey as a Muslim, reminding me process. to pray daily and to adhere to the “On no soul does Allah place a ~ Israr pillars of Islam. burden greater than it can bear.” (Al-Baqarah, 02:286) TMR I still keep my hair long. No tudung. ~ Nur’Ain

also check this out: http://muslimmatters.org/2013/12/04/myth-naturally-good-muslim/

the muslim reader 50 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 lifestyle Discover Ariff series – Introduce Children to Daily Life Lessons

New series by Jumaini Ariff depicts relevant values through the lens of an enthusiastic Muslim boy.

review by NUR AZEEMAH KADIR

ustaka Nasional livens Silat warrior in the first book situation and creates empathy up the local children sets the tone that Ariff is an so that they can ingest the literature scene by average boy seeking thrill lessons learnt as well. publishing the “Ariff in what seems like a typical Discovers Series”. Written household. In the other stories, The other characters include Pand illustrated by Jumaini Ariff, Ariff initially shows not so Ariff’s parents as well as his this delightful series pulls us into desirable traits that other younger sister, Qiyah. Like Ariff, the world of Ariff and his family. children will be able to identify - these characters are also figures Ariff, a 6-year-old boy filled such as laziness and selfishness which can be found in the with enthusiasm, is placed into - however, he learns to replace Singaporean Muslim household. various situations which young these bad traits with better Readers might be excited to readers will find relatable. There ones through the course of find traits in their own parents are five books in this series - the story. In this regard, Ariff is and sisters that can be found each with its own exciting plot not a distant hero that children in the supporting characters and gripping adventure. should look up to. He is the of the series. By making these boy that children can relate characters relatable, readers can Likeable Characters to. This will allow readers to thus draw comparisons between The characters in this series are connect emotionally with Ariff, the characters and their own familiar, friendly and likeable. which facilitates the reader’s family members. The introduction of Ariff as a understanding about his

the muslim reader the muslim reader 51 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 51 lifestyle

clear and will definitely allow for much discussion between readers and their parents.

Moral Lessons Each book carries its own moral lesson. Right from the first book, readers will learn of the importance of keeping promises with Ariff’s heroic adventures. Other books include themes of the importance of filial piety, sharing, empathy as well as responsibility. Though this may seem like abstract concepts that children may find hard to grasp, the simple stories in this book allow for clear understanding of these concepts.

Family Bonding As an added bonus, each book comes with fun activities which parents and children can engage in. This allows for deeper understanding of the stories told Singaporean Setting in this book. In addition, readers The stories in the series are will also clearly understand how based in a regular Singaporean each lesson can be drawn out household. Readers would to make it relevant to their own find the series familiar as the lives as well. The fun and simple setting is something they would activities can be conducted probably come across in their with materials which can be lives, such as the dreaded house found in every home. A simple lizard, as well as the difficulty activity can go a long way in the to maintain a pet. The familiar bonding of a parent and a child. setting allows readers to draw out lessons from the book to This series is a great way for apply to their everyday life. parents to introduce to their children how lessons can be Colourful Plots learnt in their daily lives. Due to Each book in the series carries the fact that this series is set up its own plot. The plots span out for local Singaporean readers, across various situations; from parents will find it useful that the incorporation of history by the stories in the books are looking at Ariff’s family tree to so similar to what their own Qiyah’s terrible mishap due to children might be facing. The Ariff’s negligence. The story is “Ariff Discover Series” is indeed well paced and easy to follow, a great initiative by publisher especially for children aged Pustaka Nasional to bump up between 5 and 9. The moral the local children’s literature implications from each story are scene. TMR

the muslim reader 52 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 house of arqam

In her speech, YODA’s chairperson, Nur Hani Nasir, spoke about the tagline of YODA’s Cultural Diversity programme, which is YODA “Share, Enlighten, Experience”, to accentuate the goals of the event. In addition, a painted ‘tree’ Celebrate Cultural was pasted on the wall of the venue for participants to add their “leaves” of inputs using post-it notes. The participants shared their Diversity perspectives and what naturally came to their minds when talking Appreciating diversity in Islam by exchanging about cultural diversity.

experiences and listening to Muslims of different Seeing the colours of Pakistan cultural backgrounds. Anam Hussain, from Pakistan, was the first speaker. She currently is an undergraduate at the National text by NAZEERAH MOHAMED University of Singapore (NUS). In photographs by QURRAH SHUMAR her presentation, Anam elaborated on the various ethnic groups in her home country, and described the he third Cultural Exchange Every year, YODA gathers colourful scenes of Ramadhan, Eid by Youths of Darul Arqam speakers of diverse backgrounds and weddings as celebrated there. (YODA) was held on 22 from various countries to speak February 2014, at the Lee about Ramadhan and Eid as It was refreshing to know about Kong Chian School of they experienced in their native the ethnic diversities in Pakistan TBusiness, Singapore Management lands. Although technological and how the food, as well as University (SMU). This time, YODA advancements have created language, would vary accordingly. collaborated with SMU, which has unlimited access to information, The detailed wedding customs kindly hosted the programme at some youths may remain oblivious left many of the participants in their venue. to the splendour of the global awe of the beautiful outfits and Muslim community. As diversity ceremonies. Given a chance to try The objectives of YODA’s reminds us of Allah’s Mercy, a ‘Gulab Jaman’, a traditional deep- Cultural Exchange have heightened sense of awareness fried fritter soaked in spiced sugar remained constant: towards the vibrant Muslim syrup, the participants experienced • To impress and expose community can infuse esteem in an energetic boost of sweetness, our youths with a cultural one. enough to be hyped up for more perspective of Islam from the next speaker. • To empower them with the This year, YODA invited speakers diversity from within the from Pakistan, Myanmar Tasting the flavours of Myanmar religion and Algeria, to speak to the Wai Min @ Saifullah came from • To inspire them with the drive participants, who are mostly local Myanmar, and is also pursuing his to contribute to the ummah and international students. studies at NUS. He opened his (community)

the muslim reader 53 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 house of arqam

also included the various outfits different people in different parts of the country would wear.

Yassine also showed pictures of a traditional Algerian outerwear for women to cover themselves. His presentation was followed by a demonstration of how to put on the outerwear, with his lovely wife as the model. Participants had a chance to learn to put it on, as well as learning to put on the traditional Berber turban normally worn by the presentation with the daily menu of garnered mixed reviews from the men in the country. Many struggled the common meals that they had participants. The nutty flavours with the twisting and tucking-ins of back at home. It was during this blended deliciously with the spicy, the cloths, but it was certainly fun point that the first speaker, Anam, strong flavours of the leaves, which trying to figure it out. noted the similarity in some of the could have been overpowering for foods mentioned to Pakistani ones - the less adventurous. Wrapping up the event, participants especially when the names sounded spoke about important takeaways, almost the same although in a Feeling the trends of Algeria which we could implement in different language. The third speaker was Yassine our daily lives. While religion is Hamidouni, from Algeria, who has fundamental in understanding Myanmar has a huge number of been residing in Singapore since the way we function as human ethnic groups and its similarities 2010. As his presentation was about beings, we often forget that we in culture with other countries a country from a region different have commonalities as one human within the region are remarkable. than Singapore, many of the body, or humankind. Notably, the Wai Min’s presentation was participants were amazed by the participants shared sentiments accompanied with a demonstration different ways that certain customs about being more compassionate of making the traditional ‘Pickled were practised. During weddings, towards those around us, regardless Tea Leaf Salad’, also known as the groom normally has to ride on a of how different we may seem, and ‘Lahpet Thohk’. Participants were horse on his way to the wedding. to better appreciate our existence slicing cabbages and tomatoes to as Muslims, with the beauty of make their own Lahpet, which they He showed beautiful pictures of the diversity that Islam offers us with. sampled together. Overall, this dish landscape in his country and had TMR

the muslim reader 54 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 house of arqam

YODA Cultural Exchange programme for 2014

Participants got to try out various outfits and taste special dishes from Pakistan, Myanmar and Algeria.

The programme helped to heighten the youths’ sense of awareness towards the vibrant Muslim community.

PHOTOGRAPHS BY QURRAH SHUMAR

Participants shared sentiments about being more compassionate towards people around them, regardless of how different they may seem.

the muslim reader 55 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 the muslim reader 56 volume 32 • issue 01/2014 family The First Advice from Luqman the Wise to His Son

Continuing the series of “Wasiat Luqman Al-Hakim Kepada Puteranya”, this is an elaboration on the first advice, ‘Do not associate God with partners’.

originally in malay by SYED AHMAD SEMAIT translation by SHAFFIQ SELAMAT

y son! Don’t you have been enslaved by their base Allah (SWT), which is the sin of ever associate God desires will jump into Satan’s snare associating partners with Him. with partners; verily without second thoughts or any associating God further considerations. They will Is it befitting for God to be with partners is a then commit various sins and associated with others, whereas “Mgrave injustice!” vices without thinking deeper of He is the One who made us? He its consequences. In this case, protects us from all harm. He Indeed, humans are always weak they have become totally blinded, gives us sustenance and various in handling their personal affairs. forgotten their roles as servants of pleasures, even though we always Let alone in the matters related to Allah (SWT), and forgotten Allah forget Him. As such, Allah (SWT) their base desires. The devils have (SWT) as their Creator. will not forgive the sin of shirk, or been setting traps everywhere to associating Him with others. And lure humans to join them, so that Time and Opportunity to Repent therefore, Luqman had advised his on Judgment Day, we will end up Fortunately, Allah (SWT) is Most sons never to associate partners in hell together. Only then will the Compassionate, Most Merciful, with God, as it is an unforgivable devils be satisfied, to see Adam’s Most Fair and Most Forgiving. major sin. sons being thrown with them into He gives the sons of Adam the belly of hell. lots of opportunities and time Shirk leads humans away from the to repent and return to Him. truth Hence, the sons of Adam should “Your Lord knows best what is Allah (SWT) explains in this always be cautious, so that they in your inner-selves. If you are statement, “Whoever sets up will not steer off the straight righteous, then, verily, He is Ever partners with Allah in worship, he path, the path that Allah (SWT) Most Forgiving to those who has indeed invented a tremendous and His Messenger (SAW) are turn unto Him again and again in sin.” (An-Nisa, 04:48) pleased with, or they become a obedience, and in repentance.” (Al- slave of Satan and his trickeries. Isra, 17:25) Why is that so? Because associating Satan will make everything evil partners with God, or to be more look beautiful, such that it looks But among all the sins, there is specific, shirk, leads humans away good and attractive. Those who one that will not be forgiven by from the truth, as well as enslaves

the muslim reader 57 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 family them to Satan and makes them obey his commands. Isn’t Satan calling on humans to reject the laws brought by the Messenger (SAW) and to defy the religion approved by Allah (SWT)? It is clear now, that Satan wants humans to tread on the wrong path, the path that brings humans out of succour and guidance. Thus, whoever veers off the path of guidance, will be pushed to the path that leads to hell, as they do not follow the right path. Beware, o mankind! Not a single soul who veers off the path of guidance shall escape damnation, as how Satan is damned.

Allah (SWT) clarifies this issue in the following verse, “Verily, Allah will not forgive (the sin) of one who associates Him with partners. But, He forgives all other sins save that.” (An-Nisa, 04:116)

After getting the explanation of this verse, it is most appropriate for us to look back. Try to reflect on this advice, and look at ourselves. Have we implemented its teachings in our lives?

The issue discussed in this advice is not only important for children, but also for parents. Our age is one that is heading towards change and reformation. Most people like change and reformation as they signify progress. Who does not like progress?! Nevertheless, the progress that we experience each day often makes us forget our religious duties until we leave them behind. Our religious duties often become second priority, whereas religion is crucial for life on earth.

Hence, it is not surprising for us to discover that in today’s Muslim communities, many are unfamiliar with their religious duties. Or even if they know, their knowledge is

the muslim reader 58 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 family perhaps very minimal, revolving alone to their own devices, they A child who is not brought up with around personal obligations only. will most likely be swayed by a proper Islamic knowledge may Knowing that is still good compared wayward lifestyle. They will find be prone to social diseases that to not knowing anything at all. themselves extremely unrestrained are afflicting modern civilizations. to do anything as they please. We notice an outbreak of malaise In facing the daily waves of A child who lives like this will be such as drug abuse, glue-sniffing, progress, we come across various guided by their base desires, consumption of sleeping pills and issues, which at times are closely whereas one’s base desires are so on. Although lots of energy related to our problems. Perhaps driven by Satan’s whispers. By and money have been spent on some impinge on our faith and then, they will live without a combating these social ills, they conviction. As a result of not having sense of purpose and without any continue to spread rapidly. These enough religious knowledge, or strong conviction. Their habits are children are labelled as antisocial, having just superficial knowledge, controlled by base desires. Their since their wrongdoings are it is not impossible for one to be actions are guided by their shallow very grave. This is just the social entrapped by matters that may pull mind that is wayward and is not perception. Imagine the label they them into polytheism or associating attached to the truth. would get when judged from a partners with God - this can taint religious perspective. their religion, and greatly affect Wayward children come from this their Islamic beliefs. group. They have no objectives The spread of social ills and purpose in life, apart from Usually, children who are afflicted Children need religious education only following their hearts. As with these diseases, whether they With regards to children, the such, many young Muslims have like it or not, will succumb to other problems faced are greater. Most abandoned their parents’ religion bigger social ills. They will form parents send their children to for other religions. This is because their own world, a very strange secular schools. Even if the children they do not know the real Islam. and extreme one. For that reason, received religious education there, They only know Islam by name. their actions are considered as a it would certainly be inadequate. crime that must be prevented, and They still need fundamental religious they are thus judged according to education that can mould them This possibly happens because regulations imposed upon them. into pious Muslims. To materialise of one of two reasons: They are then isolated in a cell to this, the children should be given First: The parents’ negligence in be treated and reformed so as to additional knowledge, be it at home providing religious knowledge become normal citizens again. or religious schools, in the afternoon for their children from young; Although not all of these efforts are or evening and so on. Only schools in introducing true Islamic guaranteed to succeed, they are that exclusively teach religion can teachings and its principles; very worthy and should be lauded. mould our children into practising in telling them stories that will Muslims, whose faith is sound and strengthen their faith, and so In big countries, the problems are whose manners are impeccable. on. more chronic, and it is more difficult to curb these ills from spreading. When a child is equipped with Second: The parents did More often than not, the group Islamic manners and inculcated with not give priority to religious afflicted with these ills comprises Islamic attitudes, behaviour and education, by not sending teenagers - youths who supposedly outlook; they would naturally know them to schools where they highly regard personal freedom how to conduct themselves. Islam will receive religious guidance. in their lives. By embracing liberal will be their code of conduct in all Besides that, the parents also theories, they are enslaved by their matters, be it concerning worldly know little about religious base desires. These theories are affairs or the hereafter. In general, matters, and never practised very misleading and especially parents no longer have to worry the Islamic way of life in their harmful to themselves, besides to about their children’s actions. own homes, such as performing the society at large. prayers, fasting, reading the When a child is not provided Quran and so on. The world that they carved for religious education, in fact is left themselves is filled with various

the muslim reader 59 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 family crimes and vices, which when they In fact, some of them might have are stranded in, is hard to escape, SATAN WILL even changed their names, and are other than those who are blessed MAKE EVERYTHING already known among their friends by Allah (SWT). They steal, murder, by names that are foreign and sleep around, rape the womenfolk, EVIL LOOK unIslamic. Whither goest the pride abuse others, intoxicate themselves, BEAUTIFUL, of Muslims towards their religion? and commit whatever they please SUCH THAT IT LOOKS Wallahu-a‘lam (only Allah [SWT] without caring about the laws knows). and social perceptions. They are GOOD AND no better than animals. In fact, ATTRACTIVE. Some of our children wear necklaces sometimes animals behave better and have pendants around their than them. be the ones to guide our children necks. What kind of pendants? in choosing whom to mix with. Why is there a need for pendants? What can we hope from a child Advise them not to mingle with the Perhaps they are imitating whose behaviour is this bad, or company that may bring harm, not youngsters from the West! But the something of that sort? Society will only to themselves but also to their pendants worn by some of them are not benefit from such children. In parents and family members. crosses or symbols of evil groups. fact, society also will not be able to Look at how the children of Muslims deal with the mischiefs from them. Islam encourages social can imitate the ways of others Islam does not wish for its followers participation without understanding their origins. to behave as such. For that reason, Islam never forbids us from Islam imposes heavy judgment on mingling with people of other faiths. Some of them have their bodies each of the abovementioned sins. We cannot isolate ourselves from tattooed. Tattooing one’s body is various worldly affairs. We must not something easy and it takes When children with such morals socialise, in any case. And it is hours at once. A clean body is are despised by their society and not an offence in our religion. The pierced with pins or needles until religion, it is not unlikely that they in Quran states, ‘Lakum diinukum, it bleeds. The excruciating pain turn will hate their society and faith. waliya diin’, to you be your way, and is unbearable. The tattoos show By committing antisocial acts, they to me be mine. (Al-Kafirun, 109:06) images of naked women, ghosts will be judged and placed behind But that does not mean we have and djinns; some depict Satan bars. By hating their Islamic faith, total freedom in socialising, that and devils, which perhaps are the they may become faithless and may we have no restrictions, that we figments of imagination of the end up in hellfire. This is deemed can choose any clubs to enter, that tattoo artists. Why have tattoos? as detrimental for both their lives our children who join the bands of They say, “We feel ‘high’ and great.” in this world and the hereafter. It is musicians for funeral processions See how misplaced their thinking is. evidently the greatest loss. are free to join them in sending the deceased of non-Muslims to their These are some of the vices that I do not think any among us wants graves. This is regarded as a sin that could bring us to the wrong path, as our offspring to fall to such a low is shouldered by every Muslim in a led by Satan and his accomplices. level. Nevertheless, such a fate community if it persists. Where are could befall on our children when the parents who allow their children Thus, Luqman’s advice to never they are left on their own devices to carry out this deed? Is it because associate God with partners is not without being guided to stay on of money that they are willing to merely by lip-service. It must, in the correct paths as shown by our close their eyes to the actions of fact, be affirmed through our deeds noble religion. To ensure success, their children? and actions, including generally we as parents should familiarise staying away from vices that can ourselves with good examples to This is a sin that may lead its doer lead us towards kufr, or disbelief, emulate. Only then will the children towards shirk. If the doer was truly and shirk. May Allah (SWT) protect trust us, and follow our footsteps. ignorant about his religion, no one us from them. TMR is to be blamed when someone And in terms of socialising, we must equate that deed as shirk because The first instalment of this series, i.e. the stand ‘on guard’. If possible, let us the doer is only Muslim by name. introduction to the book, is available in TMR Vol 32, No 1.

the muslim reader 60 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 house of arqam

Lectures by Kristiane Backer, from 10 to 11 January 2014

Lecture topics:

From MTV to Mecca

The Mercy of Prophet Muhammad (SAW)

PHOTOGRAPHS BY MUHD IRFAN MASLAN

The lecture on 10 January was held at Shine Auditorium, while the lecture on 11 January was held at Max Atria, Singapore Expo.

Almost 200 copies of Kristiane Backer’s book were sold over the 2 days. The audience got to meet her personally and had their books autographed. (right)

the muslim reader 61 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 house of arqam

Mufti Dr Fatris Bakaram visits Darul Arqam

A closed door session with DA members and Converts was held at the Auditorium.

PHOTOGRAPHS BY RAZALI TOMPANG

Mufti Dr Fatris Bakaram was appointed as Singapore Mufti on November 2010.

The Mufti, who is appointed by Singapore’s President in consultation with MUIS Council, plays a significant role by providing advice and guidance to the Muslim community, as well as the government, on matters pertaining to Islam.

the muslim reader 62 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 lifestyle Remembering Omar (RA) The English-subtitled series on Omar Ibn Al-Khattab (RA) vividly reminds viewers of the characteristics that this Prophet’s Companion is known for.

review by ABDUL GHAFAR ABDUL KADIR

ost of us would be on Omar Ibn Al-Khattab (RA), the dramatic plot twists and recounts well-versed with the second Caliph in Islam. of the challenges that the Muslims stories of Prophet went through during that era, Muhammad (SAW) Produced and broadcasted by can make you glued to your seat, and his Companions Middle East Broadcasting Centre wondering what will happen next M(RA), but some of us may lack the (MBC), the first of this 30-episode and if the struggle will ever end. knowledge about the history of series aired in the month of If you are expecting a low cost Islam after the death of Prophet Ramadhan in 2012. As evident in production, think again. To date, (SAW). Despite the fact that many the title of the series, the story MBC claims that it is the largest of the stories of his Companions revolves around the character ever Arabic language production, (RA) are almost as important as of Omar Ibn Al-Khattab (RA), staffed by about 30,000 actors the stories involving the Prophet although the producers did a good and a global technical team who (SAW) himself, their contributions job of slowly revealing to viewers, took about a year to finish the and struggles may be relatively the significant figures during that filming, and at the same time, unknown to many today. Of late period. The series will also at times, spending about 200 million Saudi however, there are an increasing return to key events during the Riyals (S$67 million) for the whole number of books and shows which Prophet’s time or even to Abu production. focus on the lives of each of the Bakr’s Caliphate, depicted in a way Prophet’s Companions, and which to allow viewers to see the Islamic For those curious to know if there is fortunately easily accessible to history in a more holistic way. are scenes of Omar (RA) before everyone. The more popular one in We have to warn you: this series he embraced Islam, especially recent times is the television series can be addictive. Action scenes, those of him as one of the biggest

the muslim reader 63 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 lifestyle

challengers of Prophet Muhammad punishment of Allah (SWT) in the the show to be banned, including (SAW), the series does depict such event he abuses the authority given some influential scholars from the scenes in flashbacks although most to him. Middle East. Much of their ire arose episodes do not dwell on that. The from the fact that the depictions of debut episode starts off with Omar The director, Hatem Ali, and the Companions (RA) of Prophet (RA) performing his pilgrimage producers did great in relaying the Muhammad (SAW) are by actors, and giving a sermon to the Muslims story of the Prophet (SAW) and his with some suspected to be non- under his rule. It continues to the Companions (RA) especially of Abu Muslim. Some scholars fear that point where he is travelling past Bakr and Omar (RA). But a greater the visual representation of the real an area where he grew up in, and feat achieved by them is that they person from Islamic history may he had a flashback to the era succeeded in allowing viewers to lead to idolisation. Even though before Prophet Muhammad (SAW) see how the characteristics of the some argued that there is no hukum received his first revelation. Viewers Companions (RA) are aligned to (laws) against visual depictions of will be able to see how the Arabs, what have already been described key figures of Islam in the Quran or including Omar (RA), went through about them in historical texts. The Hadith, fatwas (legal opinions or the transition from the period of actions and decisions of Omar (RA) learned interpretations by qualified jahiliyah (ignorance), to becoming as well as other significant figures, jurists) have already been issued a Muslim in the early days. Viewers like Caliph Abu Bakr (RA), in the against the viewing of this show. can also expect to see how one can show allow people to reflect about be corrupted by power, position and the past, during the time when Ultimately, no matter which side of wealth, and how it can prevent a these important figures were alive the fence you are standing on, what person from choosing the right path, and striving to ensure the word of is important is that we recognise even if it is right before one’s eyes. Allah (SWT) is spread to people like the contribution of Omar Ibn Al- you and I. Khattab (RA) as well as other key Later in the series, Omar (RA) figures in Islam. We must remember is depicted as a fair leader who The series, written by Waleed Saif, about how Omar (RA) was known will not hesitate to mete out received much positive feedback. for his inflexible integrity, and punishment to anyone who has Due to the fact that the show is about how wise Omar (RA) was done wrong, or implement changes based on reliable historical facts, in regulating or implementing for the sake of Islam, even if it much of its contents have been laws. We must also note how he means challenging the norms and praised on. The emphasis it has personally struggled to uphold his expectations of the people. For on the teaching of Islam is very responsibility as the second Caliph example, in the last episode, he enlightening and it shows how of Islam, especially the fact that he removed Khalid Al-Walid (RA), one the Prophet (SAW) as well as his was able to weaken armies who of the most significant figures in Companions (RA) strived to spread were considered giants in their time. Islam’s history (and also a cousin Islam, especially in its earlier days. All this so as to continue the legacy of Omar [RA]), from his position The director had also done a great of our beloved Prophet (SAW): to of power in the Islamic military job shaping Islam’s history into a spread the word of Islam. TMR command. One would be able to captivating and educational show. see that Omar (RA) acted not on the need to exert his power, but But the show is not without its Find the Omar series, with English solely on the fact that he fears the criticism. Many have called for subtitles, on YouTube via “MBC Group”

the muslim reader 64 volume 32 • issue 02/2014 Only they who listen [with their hearts] can respond to a call; and as for the dead [of heart], God [alone] can raise them from the dead, whereupon unto Him they shall return.

Translation of the Quran Al-Anaam (The Cattle) 06:36