A Well-Deserved Win of King Faisal's Prize for Service to Islam

Home , Abdullah Quilliam, Islam in Japan, King Faisal Prize

Letter From the Editor

A well-deserved win of King Faisal’s prize for Service to Islam

The Makkah Charter has, in a very short Minister of Defense for his strenuous and ar- time, achieved a significant presence in the duous efforts throughout the period preceding entire world and represented an Islamic ref- the issuance of the Charter. The Crown Prince erence for human rights and dignity. Consid- was behind the idea of the Makkah Charter ered a historical constitution for peace and and the only supporter of it. This significant the values of moderation in Islamic countries, document includes all supreme and high val- the Charter was issued in a conference held ues of Islam for all humanity and is based on in the Holy City of Makkah, the cradle of the the proper and correct approach of religious heavenly message. It spread all over the world discourse. due to the sanctity of the place that embraced In a special statement on winning King the most sacred Charter that was lauded and Faisal Prize for Service to Islam,the Secretary welcomed by all international organizations. General said, “The Islamic discourse is based The Charter was among the most important on authenticity and modernity. The Makkah discussions, dialogues, and lectures held by Charter proved that the religious discourse is the Secretary General of the Muslim World renewed with sincere efforts of the scholars League(MWL) S heikh Dr. Muhammad bin of the Islamic nation.” Abdulkarim Al-Issa during his visits to most A council and a general secretariat, he countries of the world. added,had previously been formed to under- The Makkah C h arter managed to win take all its affairs, including its executive sta- King Faisal P rize for Service to Islam this tus, stressing that the MWL has emerged about year 1441 AH. The MWL praised this rec- sixty years ago in an institutional framework ognition, wh e reas Secretary General – in under the auspices of the Kingdom of Saudi the name oft h e muftis and scholars of the Arabia as a pioneer and guardian of Islamic Makkah Document-expressed deep apprecia- action. tion of winningKing Faisal Prize for Service Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa wished good health and to Islam. He, on behalf of one thousand two the best of success to the Custodian of the Two hundred muft i s and scholars who endorsed Holy Mosques and his Crown Prince for the and upheldthe Makkah Charter in its historic service of Islam, Muslims and all humanity. conference, e xtended gratitude toCustodian The King Faisal Prize is an affirmation of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin of beneficence and solidification of its prin- Abdulaziz Al Saudfor his generous sponsor- ciples. “The greater honor is that I have been ship of the conference. made a little soldier in the troop of servers of Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa, on behalf of all schol- Islam; the service of Islam is an honor to the ars, also thanked His Royal Highness Prince servant not satisfaction to the need of those Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, served. Islam needs no one, for it is mighty in Crown Prince , Deputy Prime Minister and its own right.”

PB lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 1 No.6

MWL Conference in Croatia calls for promotion of security and peace

Jumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 1441/February Al-Thani Jumad 4

Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa visits Srebrenica 12 massacre in Bosnia and Herzegovina Vol.48 2 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 3 Croatian President commends the MWL’s international efforts 10

MWL and Italy’s Catholic University sign a cooperation agreement 16

2 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 3 MWL Conference in Croatia calls for promotion of security and peace

4 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 5 Zagreb - MWL

The international conference, themed “Human Fraternity to Promote Security and Peace” organized by Muslim World League in the Croa- tian capital, Zagreb, stressed the importance of promoting the values of human unity as the most important pillars for achieving peace and social harmony in the world.

4 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 5 Attended by the Republic of Croatia President, Mrs. Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović, the conference called for enacting the necessary legislation and regulations to criminalize all methods and practices of hatred, racism, marginalization and exclusion as a crime against humanity, homeland, the individual and the community. It also called for establishing a Zagreb-based global center for civilized communication to act as a bridge for communication, dialogue, understanding and cooperation among all components of the human community. The center will launch initiatives for promoting human President Kolinda delivered her speech at the opening of the conference and societal values. The President of Croatia launched the events of the around the world as well as In her speech, the Croa- international conference in Imams and representatives tian President said, “It is a collaboration with the Islam- of Islamic associations in particular honor for me to ic Body and Catholic Dio- the “Balkan countries” and sponsor a conference themed cese in Croatia together with high-ranking religious schol- ‘Human Fraternity’. It is an official representation from ars from different religions. initiative launched by the the Vatican State includ- The Croatian President Muslim World League in col- ing the Pontifical Council and the Secretary General of laboration with the Islamic for Interreligious Dialogue. the Muslim World League Body and Catholic Diocese The inauguration was at- Sheikh Dr. Muhammad bin in Croatia. This initiative is tended by the Prime Minis- Abdulkarim Al-Issa were an important opportunity for ter, Speaker of Parliament, honored for their strenuous us to promote peace and tol- a number of Croatian min- efforts in promoting toler- erance in the entire world”. isters, parliamentarians and ance and peace, in the pres- President Grabar- staff of the army and mayor ence of the Vice-President of Kitarović added that Allah of the capital together with the European Commission the Almighty created us di- some senior political, intel- who delivered a speech dur- versified in our cultures, re- lectual and religious leaders ing the conference. ligions, races and others so

6 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 7 common values that are suf- ficient for establishing peace and harmony in today’s world, pointing out that the denominators of love, coexistence and tolerance become closer, stronger and more responsible when they are a national denominator together with the strength and importance of human denominator in general. Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa noted that today’s world would be more aware if it benefited from the sermon of the history that invites it to the option of wisdom through the positive and effective dialogue in all topics together with working continuously The Croatian President honors Dr. Al-Issa on fostering mutual respect and activating values of love, forgiveness and tol- that we can cooperate in the en by materialism, absence of erance. Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa service of humanity. Based conscience and selfishness. said, “Our human diversity on the human unity that Al- Mrs. Kolinda concluded her should act as a source of lah wanted, the suffering of speech by saying: “Allah does great and comprehensive man is suffering for all hu- not ask us the impossible, but enrichment. The civilized manity. to serve others as we serve countries are proud of their The President praised the ourselves”. diversity, which strengthens positive Islamic presence in Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa and increases their identity. Croatia, stressing that this Is- stressed the importance of These countries should be lamic presence demonstrated adopting the values of hu- cautious against any interfer- at all stages that it belongs to man unity that cancel all ence targeting any of their the Croatian National Service negative barriers and bridge national components under regardless of the national af- their gaps. These human val- the pretext of religious or filiation. Grabar-Kitarović ues build bridges, facilitate ethnic reasons.” called for promoting values of dialogue understanding and Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa point- dialogue and respect in com- cooperation and strengthen ed out that the Muslim World munities so that they do not our resolve to solve all prob- League, in the name of thou- turn into isolated islands driv- lems. He said humanity has sands of Muslim scholars

6 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 7 Side of the International Conference and thinkers and all Islamic peoples, are Zagreb together with all senior political, reli- keen on banning the exportation of the re- gious, intellectual, academic figures. ligious fatwas because each country has its Speaker of the Croatian Parliament, Gor- own conditions and nature that differ from dan Jandroković, lauded the Muslim World other countries’. He stressed the necessity of League and its partners for their initiative in respecting the constitutions, laws and cul- holding this conference that promotes shared ture of the countries in which Muslims live human values. He stressed that human frater- or reside and the religious privacy made in nity calls for love, peace and the best for all accordance with legal procedures. The Sec- and “our unity” achieves the welfare of hu- retary General touched on the initiative of manity and confronts hatred, extremism and friendship and cooperation among nations violence. Jandroković said, “We in Croatia and peoples for a more understanding and are among the first countries that strength- peaceful world, and more harmonious and ened their relationship with Muslims”. integrated communities. Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa Prime Minister of Croatia, Mr. Andrea said, “It is important that religious leaders Blinkovic, stressed the importance of the not only address the spirit and the passion conference and said it represents an impor- but address the logic and reality as well”. tant opportunity to share the values, princi- Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa concluded his speech ples and knowledge that foster “our unity, our by extending gratitude for the President of humane partnerships and our global peace.” the Republic of Croatia who sponsored and Vice-President of the European Commis- spoke to this conference. He thanked the sion, Mrs. Dubravka Shwitsa, participated Prime Minister, Speaker of the Parliament, in the Muslim World League conference in the European Commission and the Mayor of Croatia and called for more cooperation to

8 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 9 High official from the Croatian government

counter intolerance, Islamophobia, hatred, with the Zagreb Declaration that called upon extremism and terrorism speech. effective and influential institutions in the Mayor of Zagreb, Mr. Milan Bandic, said, international community and the national “When I read the Makkah Charter, I found it interior to promote the concepts of human focusing on the fact that the family is the origin and national unity. The Declaration called on of humanity and attacking it is one of the big- religious leaders to make an effective con- gest challenges of our present and future, it is a tribution to addressing negative phenomena truth that we emphasize on”. tampering with international and commu- Head of Croatia’s Islamic Body, Sheikh nity peace and security. The conference also Dr. Aziz Hassanovic, stressed that the Mus- called for promoting the values of societal lim World League is committed to its glob- justice, respecting religious, cultural and al responsibility to establishing peace. He ethnic diversity, and rejecting exclusion and praised the arduous efforts exerted in con- marginalization. The conference called upon fronting all forms of conflict, extremism and the partners of the one nation to enhance con- contempt of religions from any party. fidence among its various components, and The Grand Mufti of Egypt, Dr. Shawky Al- support the principle of “unity in diversity”. lam, said that the conference comes at a very The conference stressed the need for important time when the whole world is go- empowering women by promoting their ing through many challenges that require the full role and equal engagement of women cooperation of all religions to deal with them. and men because this is a legitimate right He stressed, “We are one family and there is that supports the true concept of the mean- no chance to live in isolation or segregation.” ing of human fraternity with women’s ac- The conference wrapped up its events tive partnerships.

8 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 9 Croatian President commends the MWL’s international efforts

Zagreb – MWL President appreciated the Muslim World League’s message and efforts around the Her Excellency the President of Croatia, world, especially its initiative for promot- Mrs. Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović, received ing friendship and cooperation among na- at the presidential palace His Excellency tions and peoples for a more understanding the Secretary General of the Muslim World and peaceful world and more harmonious League, Sheikh Dr. Muhammad bin Ab- and integrated societies. dulkarim Al-Issa, and explored opportuni- President Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović agreed ties for mutual cooperation to promote the to chair the Center for Civilization Commu- values of tolerance and coexistence. nication, which was recommended by the Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa emphasized the Muslim Zagreb Conference on Human Fraternity to World League’s message to the entire hu- Promote Security and Peace. manitarian community, which aims to honor His Excellency also met with Croatia’s the principles of peace and coexistence and Prime Minister Andrej Plenković at the reject all forms of extremism. The Croatian Cabinet’s headquarters and discussed with

10 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 11 Croatian Prime Minister meets with Dr. Al-Issa

him the areas of joint ac- tural Center and delivered a Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa respond- tion in the framework of speech at the Center praised to the invitation of the implementing the plans and ing the conditions of Mus- Mayor of Zagreb, Mr. Mi- initiatives launched by the lims in Croatia, who enjoy lan Bandic, to visit the mu- Muslim World League to all the rights of citizenship nicipality of the capital. The consolidate the values of without discrimination. Mayor appreciated the Mus- religious and national har- In the Croatian diocese, lim World League’s efforts mony. Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa held a to support peace and coexis- Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa met with meeting with the bishops tence around the world and Mr. Gordan Jandroković, and explored with them the deepen relations among na- Speaker of the Croatian Par- areas of cooperation. tions and peoples. liament at the Parliament’s headquarters, where he discussed with him the areas of coordination between the Parliament and the Muslim World League on tasks of common concern, especially those related to the rights and duties of minorities. The Secretary General held a meeting with the imams working in Croatia and the head of the Islamic Cul- President of the Parliament of Croatia, side by side of the MWL SG

10 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 11 Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa visits Srebrenica massacre in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Srebrenica – MWL high-ranking delegation of Muslim scholars and a number of religious leaders. The Secretary General of the Muslim The Muslims of Bosnia and Herzegovina World League, Sheikh Dr. Muhammad bin were victims of a genocide that was com- Abdulkarim Al-Issa, wrapped up a visit to mitted in the 1990s. the Srebrenica massacre site, Bosnia and Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa said that all members of Herzegovina. Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa headed a the delegation with their different religions

12 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 13 Dr. Al-Issa and the accompanying delegation visit the site of the massacre

be viewed as a place that visiting the death camp in teaches a great history les- Bosnia, Herzegovina and son and inspires peace. Poland. The Srebrenica Women who lost their hus- massacre took place during bands and children in that the war in Bosnia and Her- massacre said to us, “Our zegovina at the hands of the tragedies are painful, but Serbian forces and claimed we do not hold any grudge the lives of thousands of or hatred “. Muslims and displaced Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa under- thousands of Muslims from scored the importance of the area. Historians view solidarity among senior this massacre as one of the Muslim scholars, thinkers most horrific in the Europe- and academicians as well an continent since the Sec- and beliefs have condemned as leaders of other religions ond World War. the heinous crimes that oc- curred in the city regardless of who perpetrated them or who were the victims. He stressed that this massacre is a tragedy that should be criminalized. He noted, “Previously, we expressed our solidarity with Srebrenica which the delegation of Muslim scholars and leaders of other religions visited”. He said the Srebrenica Museum should Meet the families of the victims

12 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 13 MWL SG wraps up his visit to Auschwitz Concentration

Auschwitz – MWL set off on an international who killed more than a mil- tour that included a visit lion defenseless Jews. His Excellency the Secre- to the massacre site in Sre- During his meeting with tary General of the Mus- brenica, Bosnia and Herze- the officials, Sheikh Dr. Al- lim World League, Sheikh govina. Issa said the Muslim World Dr. Muhammad bin Ab- Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa visit- League and the accompany- dulkarim Al-Issa, accom- ed Auschwitz, accompanied ing delegation vehement- panied by a high-ranking by a delegation of twenty- ly denounce the heinous Islamic delegation of senior five Islamic scholars and crimes that took place in the Muslim scholars, wrapped religious leaders of various city, irrespective of the per- up his historic visit to Aus- Islamic schools. The visit petrators and the victims. chwitz Concentration and came on the occasion of the Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa Extermination Camp in Po- seventy-fifth anniversary of stressed that Islam is a re- land the liberation of the camp ligion of justice and values The Secretary General from the grip of the Nazis with unduplicated standards

14 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 15 and strongly criminalizes such brutal and senseless acts and classifies them as major crimes. Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa said, “I have been here and met the descendants of the survivors of the massacres in Auschwitz. Heinous crimes took place against the entire humanity in these sites. Today, we are not only hon- oring the memory of the dead but also celebrating the living. Horrible narra- tives by survivors are proof of our common humanity, and there are Muslims who sought to save the Jews from the Holocaust, thereby ex- posing themselves to great danger. These are the ones who represent the true values of Islam, and our visit aims to spread brotherhood, peace, and love all over the globe”. city of Srebrenica in the Re- of mass killings perpetrated The Secretary General public of Bosnia and Herze- against Muslims in the early was accompanied on his govina to assess the effects 1990s. tour by Executive Direc- tor of the American Jewish Committee (AJC), David Harris, who said: “It is an important visit aiming to build bridges of friendship and cooperation among Muslims, Christians and Jews for a world of humanity and ensures security for all”. Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa’s tour also includes a visit to the

14 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 15 MWL and Italy’s Catholic University sign a cooperation agreement

Rome - MWL

Secretary General of the Muslim World League (MWL) and Chairman of the Council of Senior Scholars Sheikh Dr. Muhammad bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa has recently delivered a lecture on friendship and brotherhood among nations and peoples at the Italian Catholic University upon an invitation from the university itself.

16 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 17 Dr. Al-Issa speaks at the Italy’s Catholic University

He highlighted the models represent- derstanding among followers of religions ing the positive relationship between the and cultures, and mutual respect among Islamic world and the Christian one. This them. This leads to the dialogue, under- relationship has recently been promoted standing and alliance of civilizations for through the strong relationships between the peace, harmony and service of human- the Muslim World League and the Vatican. ity. He stressed that it is natural to be reli- Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa said that brother- giously, politically, intellectually and cul- hood and friendship mean love, sincere turally different. Yet, it is unacceptable to conscience and mutual trust, consequently make this difference a means to abandon the easiness of dialogue and understanding and leave each other. “We should work on together with working on common denom- the common denominators, only 10% of inators among us. He made clear that the which can spread peace and harmony in friendship is the most important issue we our world.” can talk about, particularly the effective Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa unveiled that the Mus- friendship. He added that the modern and lim World League is currently preparing an civilized ideas positively interact with the international initiative themed “Promoting concept of a single human family, the un- friendship and cooperation among nations

16 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 17 Main platform of the conference

and peoples…. for more understanding and nations and peoples. The true friendship peaceful world and more harmonious and and active contributions in the service of integrated societies”. He said the problem humanity are the criteria of values, where- of the human family is not in the formality as the value of man is represented in his of friendship, it lies in the inability to find services provided to others. Allah’s Mes- a supreme value of friendship. The biggest senger Muhammad (peace be upon him) problem is the rejection of this friendship said: “The most beloved people to Allah due to the political, religious, intellectual are those who are most beneficial.” or racial reservations that equal an extrem- Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa stressed that we all ism threatening the friendship, peace and have a shared responsibility to preserve harmony of our world. the human values for the next generations Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa pointed out that the that promote peace, harmony and mutual good people in our world proved that they respect among them together with rais- are the ones who can find the true meaning ing awareness of the inevitability of the of friendship. They are also the role mod- difference and diversity. In addition, the el for others regarding the human values. next generations should be taught the ap- They can make peace and harmony among propriate manner to communicate with

18 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 19 Signature of a cooperation agreement with the Catholic University to establish fellowship programs in the Arabic language and civilization

others and how to deal with bad people. worship away from fulfilling their moral The MWL Secretary General said that a and humanitarian responsibilities makes great responsibility lies on the religious them useless and undermines others’ trust platforms, education and the family that in them. Religions should take the lead should undertake their moral duty. The and preserve human values, peace and moderate religious discourse aims to harmony among all. contribute to the promotion of human Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa said that the abstract behavior. respect is the portal of peace and harmony Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa added, “From my among all forms of human difference and relationship with all religions, I realize diversity. Respect paves the way for dia- that there is gap in the way of address- logue and understanding that should be ob- ing youth who should be brought up on jective. The question is: Were religious and supreme values and high morals. He as- cultural debates throughout human history serted that the negative conducts related free of the choice of dialogue? In fact, the to the deterioration of values and morals option of dialogue was present in many are the responsibility of all. He said that cases, but it was not influential enough to the isolation of religions in the homes of make success. Why?

18 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 19 Handing the commemorative medals to Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa after giving the lecture

The reasons may be: mon denominators among people - Is there an inevitable clash of civiliza- - The causes of the ineffectiveness of tions as some people believe? Consequent- the dialogue are attributed to the fact that ly, there is no point in dialogue, whatever some of the interlocutors are not aware of we do to render it successful the negative results of the failure of the - Or the wrong format of dialogue, espe- dialogue due to mutual tension cially with regard to mutual trust or good Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa added that when Al- management of the dialogue? lah the Almighty created human beings, - Or the people are intolerant in the area He made them need each other whatever of tolerance preferred they were different and the clash became - Or the dialogue is not preceded by a an evil for them all. If some of those peo- launch platform ple claim victorious, this victory is tempo- - Or the dialogue is preceded by an at- rary, delusional, and not a real one. While tempt to impose satisfaction because each convictions cannot be imposed, it is not interlocutor believes that he owns the ab- permissible, in return, to offend public solute truth. Therefore, there is no space conscience and tranquility together with for understanding contempt against others’ convictions. In - Or the dialogue does not set the com- short, the real triumphant in the objective

20 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 21 Students from Catholic University

dialogue among the followers of religions negative models resulting from their re- and cultures is the values. What do we jection. Furthermore, children and juniors mean by values? Or what are the values should be convinced of the importance of that we want? These values, in short, are moral value in their personal lives. This the human denominators. We should apply leads to the peace and harmony of their these values on a common ground based societies. They also should be persuaded on many issues including: that a human being deserves this quality First: The efficiency of education, by acquiring these qualities. The first and which includes the good curricula and last loser in risking the values is the per- the teacher. Education should focus on son himself. Values and communication behavioral and moral knowledge in ad- skills should be instilled in children and dition to sciences. The knowledge, we youth who should learn how to think and want, includes formulating civilized be- reach a conclusion properly. havior for children and juniors through re- The second: From among the pillars of viewing human knowledge of a common applying common values is the efficiency moral nature and enriching their thought of family leadership. The family should to be able to persuade them by clarifying acquire enough awareness and form its the positive models for adoption, and the children’s minds through the positive

20 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 21 behavioral knowledge. What are matters lims, especially in the wake of terrorist acts that take place to the human being? He is committed by criminals who are falsely be- influenced by the acquired negative behav- longing to Islam.” ior, whatever the reasons for it. Sheikh Dr. At the end of his lecture, Sheikh Dr. Al- Al-Issa said, “I should indicate that the re- Issa mentioned many models that reflect the ligious discourse should be moderate and supreme values between the Islamic world temperate away from extremism and ways and the Christian one. “I, in the name of all of imposing hegemony on others by force.” Muslims under the umbrella of the MWL Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa pointed out that it is based in Makkah, met with Pope Francis. We important to highlight the strong relationship discussed many issues in the atmosphere of between the Islamic world and the Christian mutual appreciation and looked forward to one. Pope Francis had fair stances with Is- promoting friendship and cooperation.” lam and Muslims who appreciate these state- Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa recalled his friend- ments and his friendship with the Muslim ship with late Cardinal Jean-Louis Touran world. He also said: “We have held a historic who paid a historical visit to the Kingdom conference in Makkah in which more than with members of the Pontifical Council for 1200 muftis and scholars from all Islamic Interreligious Dialogue in 2018. They met sects gathered. They met under the umbrella Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King of the MWL at the Great Mosque of Makkah. Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. They signed Some of them expressed their appreciation a memo of cooperation between the MWL for the Pope’s remarks about Islam and Mus- and the Pontifical Council for Interreligious

22 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 23 Dialogue. When such a memo is signed in The paramount importance of the agree- the Kingdom Of Saudi Arabia and with the ment comes in the light of studies, research MWL that represents Islamic peoples, this papers, programs and training initiatives means a lot to Muslims and non-Muslims. conducted by the Catholic University in the Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa expressed his appreci- sphere of Arabic language and culture. The ation to his friendship with Cardinal Mikhail MWL is keen to support, promote and im- Ayusu, current president of the Pontifical prove all efforts exerted by the international Council for Interreligious Dialogue who paid academic institutions in the field of Arabic an official visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Ara- and Islamic language and culture. bia where he met with Custodian of the Two Both sides, through this partnership, seek Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz to reinforce research actions in these fields Al Saud within the framework of the visit of through initiatives supporting the Arabic Cardinal Jean-Louis Touran. language and culture together with conduct- After delivering the lecture, Sheikh Dr. ing theoretical and applied research projects Al-Issa and president of the Catholic Univer- presented to the University’s Arabic Lan- sity, Mr. Franco Anelli signed an agreement guage Research Center and a special focus of cooperation and partnership between the on projects related to teaching Arabic to non- university and the MWL with the aim of native speakers. Furthermore, the agreement developing and improving Arabic language approved the establishment of fellowships to programs and Arab and Islamic cultural re- grant PhDs in the field of Arabic language search activities. and culture.

22 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 23 Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa meets US Congress delegation

Riyadh - MWL Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa welcomed the US Con- gressmen, affirming the Muslim World The Secretary General of the Muslim World League’s keenness on behalf of the scholars League, Sheikh Dr. Muhammad bin Ab- and thinkers of the Islamic nation with vari- dulkarim Al-Issa, met with a delegation from ous sects under its global umbrella to keep the US Congress who expressed their appre- fruitful communication with the United ciation for the Muslim World League’s efforts States in order to contribute to achieving the around the world in combatting the ideas of common goals. extremism, violence and terrorism and build- The Secretary General said that everyone re- ing bridges of dialogue, understanding and lies a lot on the establishment of the religious cooperation among nations and peoples. and intellectual platforms as well as the civil The delegation also valued the Muslim society institutions. These bring diverse re- World League’s efforts in boosting the civi- ligions and cultures closer through focusing lized communication among different reli- on the common dominators that represent the gions and cultures and its global initiatives natural law of humanity, which ensures living to achieve common human aspirations. They together with love, cooperation and mutual praised the Muslim World League’s discourse respect, and avoids all forms of religious and in addressing a myriad of significant issues civilizational disaccords. and the great impact of the Muslim World The two sides reviewed in detail a number League’s visits to spread awareness and proof topics in the context of developments of mote harmony among followers of religions. mutual interest.

24 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 25 Renowned scholars hail Islamic Fiqh and Makkah Charter prizes

By Qais Bajaifer

The two prizes launched recently by the Supreme Council of the Muslim World League in Makkah have come at a critical juncture of the Islamic history with one main objective in mind: highlighting the key values of moderation, tolerance and coexistence based on the Shari’ah. Both prizes have received the admiration and praise of prominent scholars who unanimously agreed that the prizes come in line with the Kingdom’s con- tinuous and sincere efforts to unify Muslims and enhance Islamic solidarity, and above all dispel the misconceptions promulgated about Islam.

24 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 25 The Islamic Fiqh (Jurisprudence) Prize and prize if they show how the Shari’ah ac- the Makkah Charter Prize - both worth one commodates all evolving matters and chal- million Saudi riyals -have been launched lenges based on its core values of wisdom, to prove that the Shari’ah message is suit- mercy, tolerance and moderation. The work able for contemporary times and all times submitted for this prize should be written and also to reflect the enormous responsi- using a contemporary language and most bility the Muslim World League shoulders importantly should bring out the identity towards Muslims all over the world. More- of Islamic Fiqh. The work should highlight over, they underscore the efforts it contin- the difference between understanding a ues to exert to portray the real image of Is- text and applying it in reality. lam to the entire world. Furthermore, the prize will shed light on prominent Fiqh scholars who can highlight Islamic Fiqh Prize through their works the renewed meaning The Islamic Fiqh Prize will be awarded of the Islamic discourse and how it can to anyone who has rendered valuable and address issues of present times and find exceptional services to the Islamic Fiqh and contemporary solutions to today’s prob- shown how the Shari’ah is capable of han- lems. The work should elucidate how the dling all emerging matters and challenges Shari’ah handles the problems and calami- in all times and how it deals with a Fiqh is- ties Muslims around the world face while sue from an enlightening perspective while proving at the same time the supremacy of taking the conditions and circumstances of the Islamic Fiqh over human-made laws. the current times into consideration. It should dispel misconceptions and suspi- One is considered qualified to win the cions raised because of Islamophobia.

26 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 27 The prize, which will be awarded to and promote the values of coexistence, tol- individuals and institutions, is comprised erance and peace. Al-Ashikh, who is also of a check of SR500,000, a certificate and the head of the Council of Senior Religious a medal bearing the logo of the Muslim Scholars and the President of Academic World League and the Islamic Fiqh Acad- Research and Ifta, thanked the Supreme emy. Council of the Muslim World League for the role it has played in launching both Makkah Charter Prize prizes. The Makkah Charter Prize will be of- The MWL Secretary General said the fered to individuals and institutions that prizes will definitely enhance the efforts have promoted the Makkah Charter glob- exerted by the Kingdom towards promot- ally or conducted an influential study or ing moderate Islamic discourse around the research on it. The work should empha- world to eradicate all forms of extremism size and demonstrate the values promoted and terrorism. He noted that the prizes will by the Makkah Charter including coexis- help also curb the proliferation of Islamo- tence among the followers of different re- phobia, especially in Europe and empha- ligions and cultures while at the same time size the values of Islam calling for civili- enhance the foundations of coexistence zational dialogue and communication. He among members of civilian society with all noted that the prizes will also clarify am- its ethnic components. biguity and confusion in many of the juris- The work should highlight the principles prudential issues. of the Makkah Charter, the most important Sheikh Abdullah Binbayyah, Chairman of which is that religious and cultural di- of the Fatwa Council of the United Arab versity in human societies does not justify Emirates, said the prizes will spur scholars conflict and clashes but it should act as a on to focus on contemporary Islamic issues catalyst for a positive civilizational part- while the Grand Mufti of Egypt Sheikh nership and active communication. More Shawky Allam, described the prizes as ef- clearly, diversity should be understood as a fective instruments for fighting extremist bridge for dialogue and understanding for ideologies. the benefit of all humankind. In his opinion, Dr. Ahmed Abbadi, the The prize is worth SR500,000 and the Secretary General of the Muhammadiah winner will receive a certificate, and a League of Moroccan Ulama, said the priz- medal with the logo of the MWL and the es will act as a platform tackling and han- Makkah Charter. dling contemporary issues that touch upon the life of Muslims around the world. Scholars commend the prizes Ahmad Attiyah, Minister of Endow- Prominent scholars in the Islamic World ments, Yemen and Sheikh Muhammad Al- have commended both prizes. The Grand Nahawi, Chairman of the Forum of African Mufti of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Scholars, agreed that the prizes will pro- Sheikh Abdulaziz Al Asheikh said both mote the values of moderation and toler- prizes come in line with the Kingdom’s ance in the whole world and accentuate the sincere efforts to unify the Islamic nation great values of Islamic Fiqh.

26 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 27 The Makkah Charter will spur scholars on to focus on contemporary Islamic issues

Mohammad Zakir Hossain

Dr. Ahmad Mohammad Khan Gadhy Makhdoom is the regional Direc- tor of the Muslim World League London Office and CEO of Interna- tional Islamic Relief Organization UK. He is a member of the Board of Trustees and the supervisor of the Islamic Centre and King Fahd Mosque in Edinburg, Scotland and King Fahd Mosque in Gibraltar. Currently, he holds the post of Regional Director of MWLLO and CEO of IIROUK. He was recently in Makkah to attend the 44th Session of the Supreme Council of the Muslim World League (MWL), Muhammad Zakir Hossain, Editor of the MWL Journal, spoke to him on a range of issues concerning Islam and Muslims in the world as well as the Um- mah. Following are the excerpts of the interview:

28 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 29 Q. How productive and effective In May 2017 in London, we organized a did you find the meeting organized by very important conference under the title of MWL? “Tolerance in Islam” and we witnessed many A- The Muslim World league only in of its positive outcomes. 2019 conducted eight international confer- ences and symposiums and signed eight Q. The conference passed some im- agreements. HE Sheikh Dr. Muhammad Ab- portant resolutions on issues related to dulkarim Al-Issa has also visited 15 coun- Muslim unity and peace. How do you see tries with one objective to bring unity and its practical implementations? understanding among the Muslim Ummah A- The MWL resolution on Muslim unity and bridge a dialogue of cooperation and un- is very important and timely. We are now in a derstanding with all other faith and non-faith world where Muslims are subjected to atroci- groups. ties and abuses and the rise of Islamophobia. I find the meetings and events that are or- I think the call of unity was essential. ganized by MWL very effective and inclu- Furthermore, the adoption of “The Makkah sive. I am also happy that these meetings will Charter” will pave the way to unity amidst be the foundation for a better harmonious fu- the Muslim Ummah on principles and work ture and will cement the understanding and together for a common good for all. I am the relationship within the Muslim Ummah very much optimistic and we are sure to see and beyond the Muslim world with all other its productive results in the coming years if faiths of the world. not months.

28 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 29 Q. What do you think are the main A- I have mentioned earlier, through es- causes for the state of instability and dis- tablishing the relationship, engagement and unity facing the Ummah today? cooperation we can unite the Ummah. A- I think many issues causing disunity Furthermore, we can start think-tank cen- among the Ummah today such as poverty, ters, dialogue institutions, joint educational misinformation, education, tolerance. How- and social projects, Specialized Awqaf ever, once a process of communication and (trust) to deal with specific issues and con- dialogue starts, all these causes will disap- cerns. MWL has numerous such projects pear. and many more can be done through cooperation. Q. What are the other issues facing the Muslim Ummah? Q. The MWL initiative on the reli- A- I think another most important thing gious and civilizational dialogue has re- for the Muslim Ummah is education. Proper ceived great attention in the West. How education is a must. Not only the worldly better can we build up a global culture education of science and history but also of dialogue among civilizations? the knowledge and understanding of our re- A- The MWL strives to see a world in ligious doctrine as it was taught by our be- harmony and peace and the initiatives on the loved Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon religious and civilizational dialogue were a him). That is why our vision at London of- product of that vision - which has been wel- fice is “integrating efforts in education, in- comed and lauded. A dialogue is a process troducing Islam and serving the community” and like any process, it should be an ongoing one and maintained continuously. Q- How do you think the Muslim Um- MWL has its strategic plan and will en- mah can be united? dure for its successful continuation.

30 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 31 Q. Critics of political Islam consider Shari’ah as a threat to their society. How can we change this stereotyped image of Islam and its vital institutions? A- Shari’ah has been painted as evil and a threat to society through media, fake news and misinformation. Therefore, we should have a comprehensive strategy and an effective action plan to portray the information regarding Shari’ah and clear the misconcep- tion and misinformation about it. MWL Journal Editor interviewing Dr. Makhdoom Q. Islamophobia is a growing concern we can create task forces, committees and for several governments. It is a major is- working groups to further the understanding sue today on a global level. How do we and the efforts to the general people. need to tackle this phenomenon? A- Again, Islamophobia is a troubling is- Q. What is your opinion regarding sue which not only concerns the Muslims the situation of Muslim minorities all but also many western countries are alarmed. over the world? Also, the recent rise of the right wings has A- We are very much worried about the sit- caused more tension. Many entities are in- uation of Muslim minorities all over the world. volved in fighting Islamophobia, however, Especially over the last five years, the world there is a lack of cooperation and exchange has witnessed many shocking crises, such as of information within them. Therefore, if the Rohingya crisis, the Kashmir crisis, the such a mechanism can be built, then a more Uyghurs crisis. We need to work hard for the effective result would have been produced in betterment of every Muslim. We are also happy countering this issue. to see Muslim minorities in some other countries having equal rights and can voice their Q. What could possibly be the best concerns. We should learn from each other and global mechanism to create a congenial engage in communication and coordination. atmosphere that can facilitate civilizational interactions and bring about Q. How do you find our content pub- peace and security in the world? What lished in the MWL Journal and its web- role the MWL can play in this regard? site? How do you suggest we improve A- The MWL has pioneered under the them? current Secretary General, Sheikh Dr. Mu- A- We find your content both offline and hammad Abdulkarim Al-Issa in bridging the online very informative and constructive. gap between religion, civilization and cul- We would also suggest you dedicate a sec- ture. We believe dialogue is the most crucial tion for all the MWL London offices world- and starting point to engage in understanding wide to input their activities and efforts. We and cooperating within all and along with it, wish you success.

30 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 31 A Muslim lady defends a Jewish family in London

Nizar Abdel Baqi Ahmed

A Muslim woman of Libyan origin, Asma Shuwaikh, confronted an extremist who attacked a Jew family inside the London Underground. The extremist verbally assaulted the Jew, who was traveling on the metro with his children, and directed personal insults at him, as he offended the Judaism, and he tried to verbally molest the older son of the Jewish man. Shuwaikh replied to the terrorist and shouted at him, “Stop it, man, there are children here. You have a shame to send such insults to children”. She also embraced the children and pushed the attacker to keep him away.

32 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 33 Although the extremist did not respond to the attempts of other passengers who tried to dissuade him from continuing his aggres- sion, he left after the Muslim woman confronted him. While three of the passengers were busy tackling the attacker, a director named Chris Atkins filmed the incident on his phone, and later said that four passengers, including a veiled Muslim woman, confronted the abusive man, describing the latter as “incredibly brave”. The video spread on social media, prompting the Brit- ish police to stop the aggressor and bring him to a criminal investigation for inciting religious hatred.

Thanks and appreciation After the video spread, the Jew visited the Muslim woman, offering his gratitude for her courageous intervention to defend his family, and said, “I am grateful to that woman, without her intervention the vio- lations could have escalated into physical violence.” Describing what happened on the train, he said, “I felt confused after the attack, and although I expected the man to she acted with a humanitarian and religious speak anti-Semitic comments, but I was not motive to defend them. Shuwaikh stressed prepared to hear his abusive words after that she will do the same if the incident that. The only thing I could think of was is repeated with anyone else, because ad- the safety of my children, and the best thing dressing injustice is the duty of everyone. at the time I did it was to restrain myself, “As a mother of two children, I know how and to try to urge my children to ignore the feeling will be in this situation, and I the situation, without that veiled Muslim, would have hoped that someone would in- things would inevitably have turned into tervene to help me if I were in this case. Just the worst. “ as my defense of an oppressed Jew changes the stereotype of Muslims, we respect the Tolerance and coexistence Jewish religion, and we should not practice In turn, Shuwaikh told BBC Radio, “He the distinction toward any person because came and gave me beautiful flowers, we sat of his belief or sex, and we have a duty in down, drank coffee and talked about our the west to show how we are tolerant and experiences and backgrounds. he was very law-abiding, and to confront injustice, so nice, and we will stay in touch”, added that we have learned from our religion.

32 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 33 The concept of eco-mosque

Tasnuva Jahan

A mosque is a peaceful place for devoting worshippers. The mosque plays a vital role in the Muslims life and community. The concept of eco-mosque is very timely and it has a strong impact to protect the world from global warming as well as climate change. Recently, mosque designers have been drawing more on the eco-mosque or eco-friendly mosque.

34 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 35 The word ‘eco’ is derived from the term ‘ecology’, which is the study of ecosystems. It deals with the environment with their interactions. Eco-friendly refers to a condition or situation not harmful to the environment. Therefore, the mosque structures should contain the maximum benefit for the people through a sustainable eco-friendly environment. Even the Muslim religion believes that a waste of things is considered an underesti- mation of Allah’s blessings. According to Su- rat Al-An’am, verse141 ‘…But waste not by excess: for Allah loveth not the wasters.’ The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) stated that ‘Do not waste even if performing ablution on the bank of a fast-flowing large river’ (Al Thirmidhi). Hence, we should carefully use water, air, sunlight, and other natural resources and must not waste them as well. The essential purpose of the concept of the eco-friendly mosque is to promote the ecologically-responsible mosque on the planet. However, the eco-friendly mosque concept is not new in the Islamic tradition made of palm-trunks used as columns to up- as the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon keep a roof of palm-leaves and mud. It was him) constructed his holy mosque in Al-Ma- built in the year 1 A.H (622 A.D). dinah. At present, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia However, the old mosque was demolished and several countries have plans to develop and replaced with a new one. In the past cen- many eco-friendly mosques. This article at- turies, Muslims have rendered much atten- tempts to reveal the concept and history of tion to Quba Mosque. It was renovated sev- several eco-mosques in the world. eral times by several caliphs of the period. The third Caliph Othman bin Affan com- Quba Mosque: pleted the first renovations. Caliph Omar bin The Quba Mosque was the first mosque con- Abdul Aziz constructed the mosque’s first structed by the Prophet Muhammad (peace minaret. It was renewed again in 435 AH by be upon him) and his companions. The first Abu Yali Al-Husaini who built a prayer niche mosque in the history of Islam, it was built- known as the ‘Mihrab’. Several additions as an eco-friendly mosque. Besides, it was were made to the mosque numerous times. the first mosque constructed in Al-Madinah, The virtue of Quba Mosque is also revealed Saudi Arabia. It consisted of an unpaved en- in Surat At-Tawbah, verse 108,‘…A mosque closure with walls made of mud bricks and an founded on righteousness from the first day arcade on the Qiblah side (towards Makkah) is more worthy for you to stand in it…’

34 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 35 Khalifa Al Tajer Mosque: has a climate control arrangement to regulate The Khalifa Al Tajer Mosque is situated in the air-conditioning units according to the Deira, United Arab Emirates. Known as a prayer time and the number of visitors. The green mosque and the Middle East’s first mosque has incorporated renewable energy eco-friendly mosque, it is also the Islamic systems into its plan. Its exterior lighting world’s first and fully-fledged eco-mosque. poles are fitted with solar panels and a bat- It holds three magnificent prayer halls, the tery storage system,which is powered by so- grand prayer hall, the daily prayer hall, and lar energy. The solar panel system uses water the women’s prayer hall, situated on the sec- heating for the purpose of electricity savings. ond floor. The mosque can accommodate The mosque aims to save 20 to 25 percent up to 3,500 worshippers through the three on energy and water resources whereas it has prayer halls and has a huge car parking area. more than one station for visitors to perform It’s made from green building materials, their ablutions without wasting water as the which can resist wear and tear and can last mosque installed water-recycling technique for a long time. to recycle the used water from ablutions. The Khalifa Al Tajer mosque contains many This recycling ablutions water is used for ir- planet-friendly features, with energy-saving rigation and washroom supply. Importantly, LED lights, solar panels to power the bat- the mosque occupies 45,000 square feet and tery storage systems and water heaters, a has dedicated the rest of the area for land- roof garden for heat insulation. Moreover,it scaping for basic green area purposes. The

36 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 37 mosque was built according to the goal and ing it ten feet higher than the ground level. It strategies of Dubai emirate to support sus- is dotted all over with the wooden supports. tainable designs as well as motivate environ- The building structure contains an excep- mental solutions. tional and traditional culture.

Masjid Az-zikra: Masjid Raja FisabilillahCyberjaya: Located in Indonesia, the Masjid Azzikra has The Masjid Raja FisabilillahCyberjayais several environmentally-friendly features situated in Malaysia and known asagreen such asenergy efficiency and conservation mosque.It wasnamed after the former Crown system, water conservation system, material Prince of the Johor-Riau, Raja Haji Fisabi- resource and cycle capacity, indoor health lillahibniDaengChelak. It installedseveral and comfort, and atmosphere management eco-friendly features such as rooftop solar system. The mosque has built the highest panels, rainwater harvesting systems, ener- ceiling and ventilation in the main area of the gy-efficient LED lights, and natural air ven- building. Its purposeis to attain the comfort tilation.Itcontains elevators for the elderly temperature and air circulation without con- and disabledand a playground for children. suming vast electricity for the air-conditioner. The planet-friendly features mosquewas It hasa water recycling system to recycle the built in 2006. used water from ablutions. This method has several advantages, including reducing the The Cambridge Central Mosque: use of groundwater and reducing emissions. The United Kingdom’s largest eco-friendly Thus, the process helps to reduce the impact mosque is the Cambridge Central Mosque. of global warming and climate change. It It is situated in Cambridge and isEurope’s has allocated its more than 40 % of the area first eco-friendly built mosque. It has capac- for landscaping purposes. The mosque has ity to accommodate up to 1,000 worshippers implemented several sustainable principles, at a time. The mosque contains a nice onion which are shaped by GBCI (Green Building dome, but no traditional minaret. Environ- Council Indonesia). In Indonesia, principles mental concerns had been vital in the plan of the sustainable building were created by of the mosque. The timber structure is one of GBCI. The term ‘sustainable building’refers the crucial features of the mosque.Similarly, toconcentrated on sustainable building itself, the mosque has awareness about energy sav- sustainable architecture, and sustainable ing and conservation. Its building will be construction.(Hidayat and others, 2018). naturally lit throughout the year-round by stunning skylights in the roof by low energy Great Mosque of Djenné: LED bulbs. It has photovoltaic cells on the The Great Mosque of Djenné in Mali is made roof to generate renewable energy from sun- of mud and stick. The original mosque was light. The mosque compound has a rainwater demolished and was rebuilt in 1907. It is one collection system on the roof. Notably, used of the famous hand-made mud buildings that water from the ablutions places will be re- are considered as options for low-carbon and cycled and used in the garden and for toilet- low-cost construction. The mosque building flushing. The overall design amplifies the Is- is situated on a large mud platform and lift- lamic garden at the front side of the mosque.

36 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 37 It is open for every worshipper and visitor and offers a quiet transition from the busy city life to the prayer place.

Hassan-II Mosque: The Hassan-II Mosque is situated in the city of Casablanca, Morocco. One of the magnificent and the largest mosques in Af- rica and the world, it has the capacity to hold 105,000 worshippers for prayer and can accommodate up to 25,000 worshippers inside the mosque hall and another 80,000 worshippers on the mosque’s outside courtyard. The mosque is designed with large windows,overlooking the ocean, allowing breeze inside the mosque crisis of water in today’s world. Water is a during warmer months. It was designed by blessing of Allah. The issue of water waste French architect Michel Pinseau and com- needs to be managed carefully. Water is not pleted in 1993. However, originally it was only mentioned in the Noble Qur’an as es- not built as an eco-mosque. In an attempt sential for survival, but also as a symbol of to make it more environmentally friendly Allah that should be appreciated. Surat Al- and sustainable, the Hassan-II approved the Waqi’ah, verses 68-69, stated that ‘And have renovation project. These features contain you seen the water that you drink? Is it you the installation of photovoltaic solar panels who brought it down from the clouds, or is and solar thermal power plants, the conver- it We who bring it down?’Surat Qaf, verse sion of lighting and the installation of a cen- 9, specified that ‘And We have sent down tralized technical management system, etc. blessed rain from the sky and made grow At present, mosques are bringing spiritual thereby gardens and grain from the har- structures up to date with many eco-friendly vest.’ As many verses of the Noble Qur’an features. highlight the role of water in human life, In conclusion, we can say that mosques mosques should consider recycling water. should consider the benefits of sustainable However, gardening is one of the significant practices and should be converted into eco- features of the eco-friendly mosque. Impor- mosques, as a mosque requires huge electri- tantly, the garden provides an environs for cal energy such as water supply, electricity, different types of insects and birds to thrive. and sound systems for carrying out all of its The garden will not only create a stunning functions effectively and smoothly. More- surrounding but also enjoin the Islamic no- over, ablutions or wudhu is an essential part tion of gardening in heaven. The Islamic of prayer. Therefore, the mosque building garden concept was designed to enhance should be designed to collect rainwater and the human-built environment, to adorn the recycle used water from ablutions, which landscape, and to symbolize traditional and can be used for several purposes, given the spiritual aspirations. Gardens and landscape

38 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 39 design in Muslim cultures have been a sig- which rivers flow, abiding eternally therein; nificant expression of religious values about and that is the great attainment.’The Prophet stewardship, ecology, as well as beauty. The Muhammad (peace be upon him)said that,‘If notion of gardens is mentioned in the Noble a Muslim plants a tree or grows grains and a Qur’an to represent a vision of heaven. The bird, a person or an animal eats from it will Noble Qur’an has many provisions relat- be counted as a charity for him’ (Ṣaḥiḥ Al- ed to gardens. It also declares that gardens Bukhari, Ṣaḥiḥ Muslim). are used as an earthly analog for the life in The concept of eco-mosque helps tor educe heaven that is guaranteed to believers. Surat the need for air-conditioners, fans, and inter- At-Tawbah, verse 72, stated that ‘Allah has nal lighting. As it is designed for the use of promised the believing men and believing natural light and ventilation. The eco-mosque women gardens beneath which rivers flow, is also planned for solar power, which saves wherein they abide eternally, and pleasant more energy usage. Thus, the main aim of dwellings in gardens of perpetual residence; the eco-mosque is to promote the concept but approval from Allah is greater. It is that of sustainable practices and ecologically- which is the great attainment.’ Surat An- responsible mosque in the world. Even it is Nisa, verse13,specified that ‘…. whoever easy for any mosque to campaign environ- obeys Allah and His Messenger will be ad- mental awareness for this and next genera- mitted by Him to gardens [in Paradise] under tion to save the earth.

38 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 39 Family as a Social Institution in Islam

Sajad Ahmad Padday

The family is one of the essential institutions of human society and is universally found across the world; however, there are substantial dis- crepancies in the form, structure and function. There are two types of family structures: the joint family and the nuclear family. The extended/ joint family is comprised of two or more married brothers or cousins living together in the same household with their parents, unmarried brothers and sisters and their own children while a nuclear family consists of a married couple and their children. All societies around the world in past and present regulate sexual relations through the institution of marriage.

40 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 41 There are enormous variations in the struc- himself and to earn a livelihood and to take ture, type and patterns of marriage and in the the initiative than a woman. It should be ap- customs, rituals and ceremonies that are as- preciated here that the superiority men have sociated with marriage. Marriage is a union over women is not absolute; it is only in cer- of a man and woman that is socially and le- tain spheres- spheres which entitle men to gally approved and the offspring from the become head of the family. There are certain union are considered legitimate. other spheres like taking care of household affairs, looking after children, etc. in which Family women are more superior to men. The man Family is a very important and basic insti- is responsible for his family’s conduct and tution in the social system of Islam. Islam affairs. The wife (passive partner) and the guides human beings in matters which are children are obligated to obey him, provided related to a social structure like family, mar- that he does not involve them in the disobe- riage, divorce, etc. Regarding the signifi- dience of Allah and His Prophet Muhammad cance of sex, the first thing that has been stat- (peace be upon him). He is responsible for ed and explained in this connection is “All earning a living for the family and providing things We made in pairs” (Surat Al-Dhariyat, the necessities of life. A husband beats the Verse: 49). This verse refers to the univer- financial responsibility for the wife. It is his sality of the sex-law and the Master of the obligation to earn and fulfil the needs of his universe Himself exposes the secret of His wife and children. In the Qur’an (Surat An- Creation. The universe has been designed in Nisa, Verse: 34) Allah Says, “Men are the relationship with pairs. It implies that one governors of the affairs of women because partner in the pair should be active and the Allah has made men superior to women and other receptive and passive. This relationship because men spend of their wealth on them. is the basic which gives rise to all other re- Virtuous women are obedient, and guard lations functioning and operating in the dif- their (husbands) rights carefully in their ab- ferent societies of the world. The existence sence under the care and watch of Allah”. of both active and passive partners is equally The family in Islam has been organized in important. But by nature, active is superior such a way as to governor, the ruler and the to passive. This superiority is not due to any ruled not like the master and the slave. Social merit in masculinity against any demerit structure in Islam has been constructed upon in femininity. It is rather due to the fact of the Qur’anic concept of Justice, benevolence possessing natural qualities of dominance, and welfare. Islam disapproves of celibacy power, responsibility and authority. Just as and approves marriage as a religious and the existence of both active and passive part- moral obligation for social necessity. It is ners is necessary likewise it is necessary that a means to emotional fulfilment and sexual the active partner be dominant and able to gratification, legitimate procreation, inter- produce the desired effect. There are certain familial alliance and community solidarity. innate abilities and traits in the men (active partner) of which he has been made the head Marriage of a family unit. For example, a man is much The most important challenge and the prob- more gifted innately to protect and to defend lem of social life are how to regulate the

40 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 41 sexual urge into a social system and how to prevent it from running like wild. In order to curb the problem and accept the challenge, Islam has organized the relationship between the husband and the wife and reduced it to a system. Islam produces the laws and procedures to satisfy one’s sexual urge in a legitimate way i.e., system of Nikah (Marriage). Marriage is an important aspect of the family for developing and balancing the social system. Allah says in the Qur’an, “And marry those among you who are single, and those who have the capability for marriage among your slaves, male or female. If they are poor, Allah will give them means out of His grace. Allah is ample-giving and He knows all things.” (Surat Al-Noor, Verse: 32). If marriage is somehow impossible, then this cannot be a permit for gratifying one’s sexual desire without entering into the marital bond. Marriage is an open declaration of a contract by a man and woman to live permanently as husband and wife. It is declared in the presence of people through a responsible person- on you (in marrying them), and the wives of ality with great solemnity and gravity after your sons who are of your own loins and that he delivers a sermon to counsel and guide you should have two sisters together…” (Su- them. It is evident from the divine scriptures rat An-Nisa, Verse: 22) that this way was adopted from the very birth Marriage bounds with some conditions in of human beings on this earth. Islam lists Islamic society. First, a marriage should be some kind of women with whom one cannot conducted through wealth – which here refers marry and whom marriage has been prohib- to the dower. The Qur’an emphasizes that ited, in simple words Islam lists the prohib- Allah has ordained this payment as an essen- ited relations – Muharramat. “Forbidden to tial pre-requisite of marriage and immediate you are your mothers and your daughters and completion of this obligation if someone has your sisters and your paternal aunts and your not done yet. But the payment is not certain maternal aunts and brothers’ daughters and and fixed, the husband and his wife can mu- sisters’ daughters and your mothers that have tually change the amount as well as the time suckled you and your foster-sisters and moth- of its payment. The Shari‘ah has not fixed ers of your wives and your step-daughters any amount for the dower. It has been left to who are in your guardianship, (born) of your the norms and traditions of a society and to wives to whom you have gone in, but if you the discretion of the people. The second con- have not gone into them, there is no blame dition is chastity. No adulterer has the right

42 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 43 tion to marriage only. This is the way for a human being to protect himself against all sorts of unnatural, self-created sexual excitements and to conserve his energy for the service of society. It desires that the sexual love and attraction which God has created in every man and woman for the purpose of running this universe should be exclusively employed in creating and establishing the family. Islam wants to consolidate the family. The principles of justice and fairness that Islam adopted while determining the rights of the husband and the wife should be put to adopt. Islam tries to adopt the self-purification, Punitive Laws and preventive measures for safeguarding the social system. By self- purification human being automatically be- gins to follow and obey the rules of the system, whether there be the external force or not, no one compels him to adopt. The punitive laws prevent the commission of all such crimes as they may disintegrate the system or destroy any of its bases. The preventive to marry a chaste woman and no adulteress measures help to organize social life in such has the right to marry a chaste man, except a manner that it safeguarded against all sorts if the matter has not gone to court and the of unnatural, wild and artificial excitements two purify themselves of this sin by sincere of sexual urge. repentance (Surat Al-Noor, Verse:3). The sanctity of the institution of marriage takes Polygamy place with the consent and presence of the Polygamy means the man or woman hav- elders of the family. There is no doubt that ing more than one spouse. It is divided into the decision of marriage is primarily taken Polygyny and Polyandry. Polygyny is that in by the concerned man and woman. However, which a man has more than one wife at a time if the marriage does not take place through and Polyandry is that in which a woman has the consent of the guardians or the elders of more than one husband. Polygyny has been the family, then there must be a solid reason widely prevalent across large parts of the for this. In the absence of solid reason, a state world since ancient times. Polyandry mar- has the power and authority to stop such kind riages are rather exceptional and rarely exist- of marriages. ed in parts of India, Bhutan, Nepal, Tibet and The Shari‘ah by enjoining these injunctions among the units of Siberia. Islam prohibits wants to close all the ways leading to sexual Polyandry and accepts only Polygyny i.e., Is- anarchy and intends to restrict sexual rela- lam approves that only men can marry more

42 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 43 than one wife at a time. It is likely to mention polygyny. Such needs existed in various so- here that Allah addresses the guardians of the cieties to a different extent. Muslims are di- orphans to marry their mothers who are law- rected to make use of this practice to solve a ful to them in order to protect the rights of social problem that has arisen time to time. the orphans and take care of their wealth and However, it has been made conditional upon property (Surat An-Nisa, Verses: 3-4). But two things: (a) for an objective of the wel- it is evident from the explanation of these fare of orphans, a person cannot marry more verses of the Qur’an that it is not primarily than four wives; (b) if a person is not able to revealed to state any directive regarding po- deal justly with all four wives, he should not lygyny as they are actually revealed to make marry more than one. use of the pre-existing practice of polygyny in Arabia for the welfare of the orphans. In Divorce another place, the Qur’an clearly alluded to Divorce is another component of the institu- the fact that as per the norms of human nation of family which means separation from ture, the real benefits and advantages of the one another i.e. when it becomes impossible institution of family manifest themselves in for a husband and wife to get along with one a monogamous family. It is stated that the fa- another, there exists in all divine religions ther of humankind; Adam was blessed with the option of separation. It was mentioned one wife. It is social, psychological, politi- in the early Abrahamic faiths and Islam also cal and cultural needs that arise the need for reveals the laws of divorce almost the same

44 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 45 as already existed in that society. In religious terminology, it is called talaq (divorce). In Surat Al-Talaq, Allah has revived with certain additions and amendments that very law. Some details of this law are mentioned in Surat Al-Baqarah and Surat Al-Ahzab. Before circumstances reach to such extent that the divorce remains the only option, one should have an intense desire to keep intact the marital relationship as much as possible. However, if all efforts of reformation failed then Allah asked Muslims to make the last attempt for the survival of this relationship i.e., the relatives of the couple, their clan and tribe and other well-wishers should come forward and use their influence to set right the situation. One arbitrator from the husband’s family side and one from the wife’s family side and they should try to reconcile the two. If this does not work then the divorce should be take her back, in both cases the Qur’an di- made by following the procedure mentioned rects him to have two Muslims testify on his in the Qur’an. Whether a husband divorces decision (Surat Al-Talaq, Verse:2). This is the with his own decision or does so at the de- correct way of divorce and the decisions shall mand of his wife, this procedure should be stand legally implemented. followed. Consideration of ‘iddat (waiting period), until this period expires the husband Conclusion has the right to take back his wife (ruju‘). If The institution of the family is the bedrock he does not take back his wife within the pe- of both human societies as well as civiliza- riod of ‘iddat then the relationship of wedlock tion. Islam lays a strong emphasis on con- will cease to exist. “Either retain them with solidating this vital social institution so that kindness or let them go with kindness…” the individual realizes his full potential in (Surat Al-Baqarah, Verse: 231). If a husband all its probability. A considerable number of revokes his decision within the period of ‘id- Qur’anic verses deal with the regulation of dat, the woman will continue to be his wife, family life and family issues. All the related but he can exercise this right only two times aspects like marriage, divorce, kinship, etc. in his life to the same wife. However, once have been well addressed in the sources of he used this authority thrice his wife would Islam as well as the scholarly interpretations be permanently separated from him except if of Muslim luminaries. The Islamic concept she marries some other person and he then of family and Islamic teachings on family also divorces her with the same procedure life are potent enough to produce such citi- (Surat Al-Baqarah, Verses: 230,232). Wheth- zens who are all the more beneficial for the er the husband decides to divorce his wife or whole humanity.

44 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 45 Cleanliness and Faith Examples of Care and Hygiene of Body Hair

By Dr. Hothaifa Ahmed AlKharrat

No Faith gives as much guidance on the cleanliness and hygiene of the human body as Islam. It urges us to adopt praiseworthy traits when dealing with our inborn natural instincts. These are amongst the primary teachings of the Faith. “Purify your garments”[1] is one among the many of Allah’s exhortations given to Prophet Muham- mad in surat Al-Mudhathir.

46 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 47 It is evident that the teachings of purity oc- and use the water to clean the remnants of cupy an exalted station. It is one of the most urine and stools. The reciter said ‘I forgot important attributes by which this Faith is the tenth’. Ah yes, the tenth habit is to rinse distinguished. These teachings certainly your mouth”.[5] deserve the attention of anyone who lays We will now look at an important lesson claim to civilized society. concerning the hygiene of the hair on the The importance of purity and cleanliness head, the mustache, the beard, the armpits, appears in many of the texts in the Qur’an and the private areas of the body. We will and the Hadith. For example, here is a verse explore this subject from a purely medical in praise of the people of Quba. “…therein perspective. The importance of cleanliness the men loved cleanliness and Allah loves in these areas of the body contributes sig- those who keep themselves clean”.[2] nificantly to the health of the entire body. We also see in another place a clear state- It protects the body from the occurrence of ment of God’s love for those of His pure diseases that are often found among non- worshippers: “… verily God loves those Muslims as a result of their negligence of who repent and those who are pure[3]”. these matters. We see many examples of this subject mat- Islam encourages believers to pledge to ter in hadiths, amongst which is the follow- care for the cleanliness of the hair on their ing statement of Prophet Muhammad (peace heads, to wash away the oils, and to comb be upon him): “Ritual ablution is one half of it regularly. Here is a hadith to this effect: Faith”. Also “any Muslim who purifies him- “The one who has hair should care for it”. self according to the rites of ablution, then The Messenger of God (peace be upon him) prays the five obligatory prayers will verily one time saw a man with disheveled and find the atonement that is found therein”… unkempt hair, which led to him questioning and again He says, “Verily Allah is good “Is there not something that can help this and loves goodness. He is clean and loves man groom his hair?” cleanliness, so you must clean your dwell- In addition, Islam also encourages believing places and be not like the Jews”[4]. ers to wash their hair before Friday prayers, The importance of caring for the bodily visiting Holy Sites or commemorating Holy hair occurs frequently among many Islamic Days, or recovering from ceremonial impu- teachings. These urge a pledge of cleanli- rity. We find in the hadith “…Allah has en- ness on matters of personal hygiene. Some joined on every Muslim to wash his hair and of these can be found among the well- his body every seven days”.[8] The head is known hadiths, which mention a range of a part of the body on which one is enjoined good qualities associated with the subject of by the well-known verse of the Qur’an to bodily hygiene. For instance, The Prophet perform ablutions. (peace be upon him) mentioned 10 innate In the skin of the scalp, there are many habits of cleanliness – trimming the mus- glands that secrete sweat and oils. Regular tache, permit the beard to grow, clean your washing with water is the best way to main- teeth with Siwak, rinse your nose with wa- tain hygienic care and to ensure that these ter, trim your fingernails, wash your knuck- secretions are washed away. Diligence in les, shave your armpits, shave your pubis, this matter will prevent skin diseases that

46 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 47 afflict the scalp if proper hygiene - isne glected, such as dandruff, fungal infections, and lice infestations. These are often accompanied by itching of the scalp.

Trimming the Mustache The mustache is the hair that grows along the upper lip. There are many hadiths that speak to the importance of care and groom- ing of the mustache. For instance, the Prophet (peace be upon him) says, “Don’t be like the idolaters. Let your beard grow and trim your mustache”[9]. Also “Let the beard grow freely, don’t be like the sun worshippers. Observe decorum”. There exist many counsels on the health benefits that arise from the care of the mustache. Many germs and microbes can establish themselves on the long hairs of the mus- cheeks and the chin. tache that grows around the opening of the There are many hadiths that counsel us to mouth. This means that these living organ- grow out the beard hair. For instance, ‘… isms will enter the mouth along with the but my Lord commanded me to trim the food and drink. mustache but let my beard grow’[11]. Also The matting of long mustache hair can ‘Prophet Muhammad commanded that create an environment conducive to the the mustache be trimmed and the beard to growth of microscopic germs that can enter grow’. the orifice of the mouth, then into the diges- The direct exposure to the rays of the sun tive system and cause many inflammatory and strong winds outside of the home can illnesses. harm the collagen of the facial skin and lead Furthermore, the existence of mustache hair to cause wrinkles. Facial hair will minimize close to the nose makes one susceptible to these harmful effects and it will lighten the mucous secretions from the nose and spray sharpness of the wind on the skin of the face of saliva. This humid environment creates thus helping to protect the skin from the a suitable combination for the growth and long-term effects of wind and sun exposure. multiplication of germs. The guidance of Indeed, there exists scientific evidence cleanliness contained in the Sunnah will that shows us that direct exposure to the surely protect us from these risks and dan- sun’s rays is the main cause of skin cancer. gers and reduce the incidence and growth of In this respect, the hairs of the face serve as these microscopic germs. protection for the skin by presenting a bar- rier to the strong rays of the sun. Let the Beard Grow It has also been determined that there The beard is the hair that grows on the are many other benefits to letting the beard

48 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 49 grow. For instance, the beard plays an im- the fingernails and mustache are among the portant role in keeping the skin warm and innate habits of cleanliness”. protecting it from the harmful effects of cold Another example is the following: “A time wind, which could harm the facial nerves has been appointed for trimming the mus- and potentially lead to facial paralysis. tache and fingernails and for shaving the On the other hand, shaving the beard can armpits and pubic areas. This should not be bring harm. For instance, shaving the beard neglected for more than forty nights.”[13] with a sharp razor can provoke the gradual The pubic areas are found near the body’s deterioration of the surface tissue of the face excretory systems. For this reason, this area and the appearance of tiny wounds. All of can easily become polluted with urine and these factors make the skin susceptible to feces, as well as sweat and oily secretions. bacterial contagions, viruses, and fungal in- Neglecting the cleanliness of this area of fections. the body will lead to the proliferation of Removing the Hair from the Armpits many microscopic organisms in addition to (plucking) the gradual increase of oils and sweat ma- Armpit and pubic hair appear at puberty, terials. along with sweat glands. Medical studies For this reason, shaving the pubes will have confirmed that removal of these hairs protect us from parasitic diseases such as reduces the oily and sweaty secretions. Over lice and skin fungal infections. These are time, it also reduces the growth of hair. common amongst non-Muslims who ne- Removing armpit hairs also limits the inci- glect shaving their pubic hair. This leads to dence of various skin diseases such as in- the appearance of ulcers and various inflam- fection of the sweat glands, tinea, and hair matory skin conditions. folliculitis. Some of these studies have confirmed that It also helps us avoid uncleanly condi- the accumulation and multiplication of bac- tions that are conducive to infestations of teria around the pubic areas will eventually lice and other parasitic insects. infest and lead to the inflammation of the Studies have shown that millions of mi- urinary tract system (urethra, ureter, bladder croscopic living organisms can inhabit each and kidney). One-third of Western women square centimeter of the armpit and pubic suffer from these inflammations, which re- skin. For this reason, it is important to en- sult from neglect of cleanliness around the sure that these areas are properly cleaned, organs of the pubic area. and that hair is removed. These are impor- In conclusion, the Muslim can rightly tant steps towards eliminating harmful life be proud to adhere to these meritorious forms that are the causes of many inflamma- traits that respond to man’s innate sense tory skin conditions. of personal hygiene. By these traits, he achieves distinction among his peers. He Removing Pubic Hair becomes a unique example to be emu- The pubic hair is the hair that is found lated. All praise to Allah as He should be around the reproductive organs. Some had- praised. He has graced His servants with iths recommend the removal of this hair. For many bestowals, the greatest of which is example, “Removing pubic hair, trimming the blessing of Islam.

48 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 49 Abdullah Quilliam, first converted British Muslim in the UK

M. Minhaj Niloy

Religious conversion is a complex sensation. Conversion experiences can happen in different situations with different conclusions. Reli- gious conversion is alteration from one religion to another. Accord- ing to Islam, “No baby is born but upon Fitra (As a Muslim). It is his parents who make him a Jew or Christian or a Polytheist” (Sahih Muslim, Book 033, Number 6426). Here I will describe about the first Victorian in the United Kingdom (UK), who converted into Islam.

50 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 51 of Islam in the Victorian Britain. In 1887, he was the first Christian person to convert into Islam in England. His original name was William Henry Quilliam. He was born on 10th April 1856 at 22 Eliot Street, Liver- pool, UK. Henry Quilliam was raised in Liv- erpool city. Very astonishingly, Quilliam’s father was a Methodist preacher. He spent his childhood on the Isle of Man, and he was brought up as a Methodist. He studied law at King William’s College. In his professional life, Quilliam worked in the legal profession as a solicitor for several decades. He was specialized in criminal law and practiced in Liverpool. Quilliam was known as a defense lawyer as he defended several high-profile murder cases. During that time, he became connected with the temperance movement. The temperance movement is a social movement. It related against the theory of con- sumption of alcoholic beverages. Members Abdullah Quilliam was first in the Unit- in the movement normally criticize alcohol ed Kingdom to convert into Muslim from intoxication or support complete abstinence Christianity. Abdullah Quilliam’s conver- from alcohol. They also highlighted the alco- sion led to a notable history of the growth hol’s negative effects on people’s health and

50 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 51 family lives. The movement mate to recover his illness. this religion. Finally, at the encourages alcohol educa- In 1887, Abdullah Quilliam age of 31 age accepted Islam tion. It also demands the path converted into Muslim reli- as his religion. He described of new laws against the alco- gion. He was fascinated to his new faith as “reasonable hol sale, either regulations Islamic culture while visit- and logical, and personally I on the alcohol’s availability, ing Morocco to recover from felt it did not contradict my or the total prohibition of it. an ill physical condition. He beliefs”. Though it is not During the 19th and early felt interest to be a Muslim obligatory in Islam to change 20th centuries, the temper- after seeing Moroccans pray names after conversion, but ance movement became no- on a ferry when a Mediter- still he adopted the name of ticeable in several countries. ranean break took place in Abdullah. He changed his It is also said that one of the 1887. Quilliam said, “They name to Abdullah, convert- causes he was involved in Is- were not at all troubled by ing to Muslim. Later, he was lam was that alcohol is pro- the force of the strong wind also known as Henri Marcel hibited for Muslims. or by the swaying of the ship. Leon or Haroun Mustapha However, in 1887 Quilliam I was deeply touched by the Leon. fell ill. In the Victorian era, look on their faces and their When Quilliam returned to he was practically well-to- expressions, which displayed Liverpool from Morocco, do. For this purpose, he vis- complete trust and sincer- he devoted himself into the ited Morocco to change cli- ity”. Then he inquired about faith, studying determinedly,

52 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 53 presenting Islamic lectures and writing books on the religion. After his conversion Quilliam made first converts in his own family, with his mother and his three sons. In 1887, he became a Muslim preacher. He published many booklets and after publishing he became a famous figure in the Muslim world. At that time, he purchased several properties at Brougham Terrace, Liv- erpool. The Crown Prince of Afghanistan, Nasrul- lah Khan also donated to purchase those properties. Later, one of his properties, 8 Brougham Terrace renovated as the mosque. It was named as the Liverpool Muslim Institute in 1889. also founded an orphanage in Britain. Quilliam built up Thus, he founded one of called Medina House. It was as well as developed his in- the Britain’s first mosque in a home for more than 20 or- ternational Islamic contacts. Liverpool. Besides, he es- phans, they were brought And he was also selected tablished a boarding school up as Muslims. And child’s as the Persian Vice Counsel for boys and a day school for mothers were required to to Liverpool by the Shah of girls. Moreover, the Institute sign a clause that they would Persia. operated educational classes be brought up as Muslims. At Victorian era, Quilliam covering different subjects, Over the next few decades, had a noteworthy contribu- which were attended by both many well-known Muslims tion to the Islamic Literary Muslims and non-Muslims. across the world visited the Works in the UK. He wrote There was also a museum Liverpool mosque. Abdullah the leaflet titled Faith of- Is and science laboratory. Quil- Quilliam was given various lam, regarding Dawah in Is- liam started social work for prominent titles. In 1894, lam and its key principles. In spreading Islam in the UK. Abdul Hamid II the 26th Ot- the first edition, 2000 - cop He inspired non-Muslim toman Caliph, gave Quilliam ies were published. Later in parents who were unable to the title of Sheikh al-Islam of 1890, a further 3000 copies look after their children to the British Isles. The Emir of were published. He also ed- become Muslim. For this Afghanistan also called him ited ‘The Crescent’ a weekly purpose, Abdullah Quilliam as the Sheikh of Muslims record of Islam in Britain.

52 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 53 It represented Muslims in to create possibly converts converted into Islam. England between 1893 and feel to Islam. Many well- But many Liverpool local 1908. Abdullah Quilliam known personalities, scien- converts were abused over also published a monthly tists, teachers, and wealthy their faith and faced resent- international journal. It had landowner accepted Mus- ment. They were also as- internationally circulated. lim religion due to Abdullah saulted with bricks, offal and These exclusive documents Quilliam’s influence. Among horse manure. Quilliam be- are an ancient record of a ris- them Professor Nasrullah lieved that the attackers had ing converted community in Warren, Professor Haschem been “brainwashed and led the British colonial times and Wilde and Resched P. Stan- to believe that we were bad situation of Islam. Quilliam ley the former Mayor of people”. Even Quilliam’s travelled from place to place Staley bridge converted to mosque was once attacked in UK and lectured on Islam. Muslim for his preaching. In with snowballs by a Sunday Abdullah Quilliam might not the UK, Quilliam’s prolifer- school teacher. be the famous name, but un- ation of Islam led to around He also criticized British for- doubtedly, he played a great 600 people to accept Islam. eign policy in Sudan. Quil- role in promoting Islam in Significantly, many educated liam was encouraging Mus- the UK. Quilliam always and prominent persons in lim soldiers in the British followed a suitable policy in British Society, along with army to abstain from attack- his missionary activity. Each ordinary men and women ing the Muslims of Sudan. time he kept in mind the per- converted to Islam. Quil- This was one of the vital reason’s background, who he liam’s efforts also managed sons that forced to Quilliam was addressing. And tend to the first Japanese man to leave the UK.

54 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 55 Quilliam’s extended activities, massive number of converts started to attract an- tagonism as well as pressure from both the local community and from the media. Sadly, Quilliam had to leave the UK after facing many challenges like hostility and persecution. Quilliam worked with the underprivi- leged including advocating trade unionism and divorce law reform. But his legal profession ruined when tried to help a female client seek- ing divorce. Actually, it was a honey trap set up for that woman’s alleged adulter- ous husband. However, that practice was not unusual for that period. But the attempt was unsuccessful and Quil- liam was struck off. In 1908, prominent Anglo-Muslims dings. Eventually, the build- he left England, his profes- were also buried in Brook- ing fell into disuse in spite sional work in Liverpool field Cemetery like Abdul- of the strength of Quilliam’s stopped. It is claimed that he lah Yusuf Ali, Muhammad legacy. But in 2009, the new- left Liverpool to reduce the Marmaduke Pickthall (who ly founded Quilliam Founda- scandal’s effect on the Mus- each translated the Qur’an). tion, set about renovating the lim community. After that his His profile is diminished, but original mosque with money son Bilal, sold of the prop- still Liverpool mosque bears raised by donations. In 2014, erty registered in Quilliam’s his name to this day. Also, he it reopened. It is a valuable name, used as a mosque and was involved with the UK’s symbol of the Muslim com- Islamic Centre. one of the oldest mosques munity as well as the British Finally, Quilliam returned to ‘Shahjahan mosque’, built in history. He died about near a the UK. In addition, he ad- Woking, Surrey in 1889. century ago, Abdullah Quil- opted the new name Haroun However, in 1932, after Quil- liam’s legacy still lives on. Mustapha Leon. In 1932, liam’s death, the Brougham To remember the effort of he took his last breath. He terrace was purchased by Abdullah Quilliam and the was buried in Brookfield the council then used as a mosque, a plaque was posi- Cemetery near Woking. His register office for records of tioned on 8 Brougham Ter- grave was unmarked. Some births, deaths, and civil wed- race in 1997.

54 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 55 Japan sets up prayer rooms for Muslims in commercial facilities

Source: aboutislam.net & News Agencies “We have received inquiries from Mus- lim tourists about a washing space, but we SHIZUOKA – Islamic Prayer facilities have couldn’t respond to their needs. By promot- been set up at expressway service areas in ing the facilities for their use, we hope to at- Japan along popular routes to cater to Mus- tract new visitors who want to stop by,” said lim visitors. Tomoyuki Fujita, a service area manager of

56 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 57 Kintetsu Retailing Corp., the restaurant’s Osaka-based operator. The 6-to-15m2 facilities, equipped with mats and marks showing the direction of Qiblah, are located in restaurants and access ways of commercial complexes on the ex- pressways. A first in Japan, prayer areas were opened at the Hamanako service area and on the outbound side of the Ashigara service area along Tomei Expressway in Shizuoka Pre- fecture. Another prayer facility was set up in the Suwako service area’s outbound side on Chuo Expressway in Nagano Prefecture. The area sees a growing number of foreign tourists including Muslims, especially those coming to ski.

Golden Tourism The Central Nippon Exis Co., based in Na- goya, which manages and operates these service areas dub Hamanako and Ashigara ing presence in other nearby countries. There service areas as the “golden route” for tour- were isolated occasions of Muslims in Japan ism connecting Tokyo and Osaka as many before the 19th century. foreign visitors including Muslims stop by Today, Muslims are made up of largely im- them. migrant communities, as well as smaller The Hamanako service area is accessible on ethnic Japanese communities. The Pew both the inbound and outbound sides. Fa- Research Center estimated that there were cilities differ according to the service area, 185,000 Muslims in Japan in 2010. such as the style of the private rooms and the Japan is a new but sharply growing halal times they are available for use. market as the country’s producers are seek- Ablutions spaces are available at the Ha- ing fresh opportunity in the halal sector and manako and Suwako service areas but not at striving to seek new local and international Ashigara. Restaurants and food courts at all markets, especially now that Japan is the of- three service areas have started offering halal ficially designated venue for the 2020 Olym- food for Muslim visitors. pics, attracting Muslim athletes and tourists “We will consider whether to expand servic- from all around the world. es to other locations after observing custom- Catering to the rising number of Muslim er demand at the three service areas,” said a tourists, suppliers and travel agents in Ja- Central Nippon Exis official. pan have been obtaining halal certification The history of Islam in Japan is relatively and converting their restrooms into prayer brief in relation to the religion’s long stand- rooms.

56 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 57 Harvard recognizes Qur’an as one of best expressions for justice

Source: Stepfeed.com of justice in history. Qur’an is the final rev- elation as believed by us, the Muslims. Al- When it comes to the law, both legislation lah has selected it as His last and final book. and implementation are deemed relative. But Without any doubt, it came from the Creator the same can’t be said for justice as by defi- of this Universe and guides us on the right nition it is the offering of what is morally fair path of living. and right. As we know, the law should seek Rules and Justice are highly prioritized in justice and Harvard knows exactly how Is- Islam and the Holy Book which is full of es- lam is doing so. sential laws for humans. Islam does not have Harvard Law School, one of the world’s any space for injustice. most prestigious institutions (No. 7 in the The phrase at hand is Verse 135 of Surat world, to be exact), actually speaks of justice An-Nisa (The Women), which is posted on at the entrance of its faculty library. In doing a wall facing the faculty’s main entrance, a so, it references a verse from the Qur’an, re- wall that portrays some of the best phrases garding it as one of the greatest expressions with regards to justice.

58 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 59 Surat An-Nisa is known for its empower- ment of women. Islam generally has cham- The university references pioned women’s rights since day one. The a verse from the Qur’an, religion was among the first to tackle female regarding it as one of the infanticide, encourage women to work, and spread equal treatment between the sexes greatest expressions of jus- in marriage and Islamic duties. It has been tice in history. credited for being the first religion to give women inheritance rights. Harvard Law School has decided to highlight Islam’s fight for justice. Here is a part The Words of Justice exhibition, a collabora- of the verse posted on the wall: tion between students, faculty, and staff at the “O ye who believe! Stand out firmly for jus- university, is a testimony of the endurance of tice, as witnesses to Allah, even as against humanity’s yearning for fairness and dignity yourselves, or your parents, or your kin, and through the law, as stated on its website. whether it be (against) rich or poor: for Allah The words on these walls affirm the power can best protect both.” and irrepressibility of the idea of justice and Established in 1817, Harvard is the oldest con- reflect a hope that the aspirations and ideals tinually-operating law school in the U.S. and expressed here will continue to inspire all hosts the largest academic law library globally. who struggle for laws that are just.

58 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 59 Islamic schools are the most superior in the Netherlands

Jeddah: Al-Waleed Jafar Elias ted to teaching the official curriculum of the state. They also teach Islamic sciences and A research conducted by the Dutch company materials dealing with ethics, respect and ad- RTL specialized in media and educational herence to the principles of good dealing, as affairs revealed that Islamic primary schools well as focus on educating students about the still maintain advanced positions in the list necessity of positive integration in society. of the most successful schools, for the fifth Curricula include teaching materials on the year, noting that those schools are commit- moderation of Islam and coexistence among

60 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 61 all followers of religions to ensure that students are not affected in the future by any ideas related to terrorism and extremism. The company added that what distinguishes the most Islamic schools in the Neth- erlands is the policy of dis- cipline and commitment to the educational process, and the strenuous efforts made by teachers to ensure the excellence of students and their access to the highest country, ranked fifth among was founded in the country levels of education, in addi- the six thousand primary 30 years ago, stressing that tion to the full cooperation schools located in the coun- this type of school provides and remarkable coordination try, and “Al-Habib” School a great addition to society, between the administrations in Maastricht, in the south as Islamic school adminis- of those schools and par- of the Netherlands, came trations reject any calls for ents. The company went on in ninth place, and “Bilal” isolation, and they encour- to say in its recent annual re- School in Amersfoort, cen- age their students for posi- port that Muslim students in ter of the country, ranked tive integration into society. most parts of the country are tenth. Many other schools These schools are keen not able to enter prestigious uni- also ranked high. The annual to be affected by any terror- versities, due to the higher report of the company noted ist ideas. The curricula also degrees they obtain, which that Islamic schools have be- highlight how Muslims deal prompted many non-Muslim come a target for many stu- with people of other faith, parents to try to enroll their dents in the Netherlands, as and that Islam is a universal children in those schools. they strive to enroll in them religion for all, and there- to ensure excellence. fore rejects any discrimina- Advanced ranks tion among humans based The company confirmed that Great addition on gender or color. The re- the results of the “level sta- The head of the Islamic search concluded that there bilization” test conducted by Schools Association of the are 53 Islamic schools in the Dutch Ministry of Edu- Netherlands, Kokhan Cho- the Netherlands, in which cation, Culture and Science pin, said that students in around 12,500 students are for the last year students in schools study alongside for- studying. They are linked to primary schools announced mal curricula, the Islamic the Ministry of Education, that the Islamic “Bukhari” religion and receive values Culture and Science, and School, located in the city of of ethics and respect. He their curricula are the same Leerdam, in the west of the said the first Islamic school as other schools.

60 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 61 Common prayer brings Muslims and Christians in Australia

Jeddah: Al-Waleed Jafar Elias the fire that continued since the last year increased its negative effects, as it was de- Many Christians joined dozens of Muslims scribed as the worst wave of fires in recent performing the rain-prayer ritual in the Pan- decades. The fires have caused huge losses theon Park, center of the Australian city of to the local economy and have damaged vast Adelaide. Fifty Muslims - both men and areas of agricultural land. women - had responded to an invitation by The Daily Mail newspaper said that the mosques to pray for rain, because of the priest Patrick McKearney, from the Center drought that recently hit Australia, which for Christian-Islamic Relations, joined to the

62 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 63 Muslim pray, and said after the end of the prayer, “Today I joined my Muslim sisters and brothers in Adelaide to pray for the rain. My friend, Mr. Mohammed Abdullah, gave the sermon, stressing repentance and dependence on the Merciful Lord. Such activities can do a lot to ac- celerate the integration of everyone in this one homeland, as well as help reduce the tension caused by ex- tremists, and send a clear message to those who want to continue the situation of congestion that we are all sons of this country, and istence. Muslims believe that in addition to the death of work together on its behalf, they are part of this society large numbers of animals we all pray to God to have and Australia is their home- and destruction of vast ar- mercy on us and spare our land that suffers from all the eas of agricultural land. The country this crisis that it is crises it is going through. intensity of the fires pushed going through”. Therefore, we organized rit- the authorities to a state of ual prayer and pray to Allah, maximum alert, as the mili- Belonging to the homeland so that He may have mercy tary forces and civil defense The activist at the Center for on us.” Abdullah called for teams rescued the families Christian-Islamic Relations, intensifying and increasing caught in the fire. South Aus- Muhammad Abdullah, ex- such joint activities, so that tralian Prime Minister, Ste- pressed his pleasure in the the followers of the extreme phen Marshall, regretted the participation of the priest right who are trying to fabri- increasing number of deaths and those with him in the cate a misunderstanding will due to the fires, saying, “Our prayer, pointing out that this realize that their endeavors hearts sympathize with the step received the approval will never succeed. families of those people who of the entire Muslim com- have died. We have increased munity, and said, “It was a International solidarity the number of firefighters to wonderful initiative from my Australia has been experi- cope with the fire.” Also, friend McKernerne, dem- encing a severe drought for many countries, especially onstrated that Muslims and several months, and a wave the Kingdom of Saudi Ara- Christians in Australia are of fires that burned many bia, expressed their willing- one hand, and one communi- of its forests and led to the ness to help Australia over- ty that seeks peaceful coex- death of 23 of firefighters, come this disaster.

62 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 63 Secretary-General of the Muslim year. Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa thanked the World League (MWL) Sheikh Dr. 1,200 muftis and scholars who ap- Muhammad bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa proved this charter at a historic con- has, on behalf of Muftis and scholars ference last Ramadan in Makkah, and of the Makkah Document, expressed who represented 27 doctrines and his deep praise after the Makkah sects from 139 countries under Charter has been awarded the King the umbrella of the Muslim World Faisal Prize for service of Islam this League.

64 lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l lJumad Al-Thani 1441/February 2020 l 65