The Art of Protecting Life

Abrar A bi-monthly newsletter published by the Abrar Islamic Foundation

45 CrawfordEdior: Place, DrLondon Saeed W!H Shehabi 4LP A bi-monthly newsletter Abrar Tel:Published 020 7724 by the 3033 45Fax: Crawford 020 7724 Place, 7219 LondonEmail: W1H 4LP Vol 17, No 25 (409) 1st-15th July 2021 [email protected] Tel: 020Website: 7724 3033 Live and let live; the art of protecting life www.abrar.org.uk In a world that has been possessed by mass have hearts made of stone, with no human feel- Email: killings and the culture of blood-letting at wide ings towards life. Assassinations are rampant in abrarhouse scales how can modern man protect the sanctity a world that is rapidly becoming devoid of mo- @hotmail.com of the human soul? The many kinds of vicious rality and human feelings. Dictatorial regimes Website killings, including murders, assassinations, tor- adopt extrajudicial killings when opposition to www.abraronline.net ture to death by dictatorial regimes and the their rule escalates. Critics are silenced through Charity no. 293802 criminal killings by villains, thugs and pity detention, torture, murder or execution. To criminals continue to haunt people of this plan- them human life has no sanctity. It can easily be et. God Almighty has granted mankind the right taken away with the whim of a pen by the dicta- to live, and sought to protect the soul with strin- tor or his henchmen. This is against the divine gent laws that seek to deter unlawful killings. It teachings that attach great value to human life. We stand for: is understandable that capital punishment re- Verse 32 of Al-Ma’ida says: “We ordained for mains controversial, but extra-judicial killings the Children of Israel that if any one slew a • Inter-faith and inter- are far greater in numbers and ferocity than person - unless it be for murder or for spreading civilisational dialogue those by capital punishment. There are human mischief in the land - it would be as if he slew rights organisations that campaign against exe- the whole people: and if any one saved a life, it • Respect for the human cutions like Reprieve, but the argument here is would be as if he saved the life of the whole race and rights about the killings outside the remit of law. people.” The past century witnessed a mushrooming of Preserving life is a sacred aim in the divine text. • Cooperation for the the destruction of human lives. The two world Life of human, animal or environmental species good of people wars led to more than 20 million deaths. Wars must be protected. It is part of the holistic ap- are becoming more vicious, cruel and inhumane proach to the beauty of the universe. It is an • Moderation despite the campaigning by human rights activ- integrated existence which helps mankind enjoy • Modernity ists and bodies to regulate military combats. God’s bounties and creation. Life is the ulti- The Geneva conventions that came into exist- mate form of the natural beauty. Only enemies • High standards of ence after WW2 have remained largely symbol- of beauty who commit destruction on this earth. spirituality ic. War zones have not really been governed by True believers are those who aspire to preserve these conventions. The American and British life and spread the culture of existence on the experiences in both Iraq and Afghanistan led to planet. When mankind destroys life on earth many unlawful killings. The world is simply they become evil. Whey they protect the envi- not a just one. When some countriea are al- ronment ultimate happiness prevail. Life is the In this issue lowed to stockpile Weapons of Mass Destruc- essence of existence without which extermina- tion (WMD) this means that the lessons of the tion becomes the order of the day. Modern cul- Local Events 2 previous conflicts have not been fully compre- ture must promote love of life and discredit hended. The culture of blood-letting at massive doomsday approach to life on planet earth. Peo- Muslim Affairs 3 scales has rendered all talk of sanctity of the ple of religion must lead the way to life preser- human life irrelevant. If the big powers are una- vation as a means of true worship of God Al- ble to control their thirst for mass killings, how mighty. Doing s will lead to God’s pleasure. Al-Jayani; Father of can pity criminals be persuaded not to carry on Isn’t that what a true believer aspires to spherical trigonometry 4 their killing sprees? How can modern human achieve? mankind adopt a culture that respects Modesty and protects lives of individuals? in British Summer 5 Divine religions seek to protect the human soul. God Almighty is the crea- UK Must Fix Anti-Muslim tor of life and is keen to maintain and protect it. Yet mankind is influenced Sentiment Problem 6 by evil. Pity criminals have diminished human feelings. They do not feel sad Story: The Conundrum 8 or express remorse when they set on their victims to rob them of life. The rising culture against capital punishment is seen as encouragement to killers and assassins. Tyrants and dictators Page 2 Local Events

Debate on atheism 309AH. He was killed in cruel way, he ism. When I wrote my book: Is there was cut to pieces, hung on the bridge, doubt about God? I dealt with the issue The weekly meeting of Abrar on burnt and his ashes thrown in the river. with a degree of naivity. I attempted to Thursday 17th June was dominated by They claimed that he said he was God. answer every possible argument that discussion on “atheism” both in the Ibn Al Rawandi was accused of the may be presented by atheists. Now I context of early Islamic history and same because he was a Mu’tazilite, then feel that the problem is not ideological. modern conceptualisation. he was accused of Shiism because he Scientific approach will not solve the Mr Abu Dharr wrote a book on Imamate. They said he problem. Al Saghir talked was paid 30 dinars to write that book. about what was So why did not he write for the ruler Regional and religious impact termed who would have paid him much more? of Iran’s elections “zandaqah” in The manufacturers of the hadith the first two cen- (prophetic tradition) presented negative On Thursday 24th June, the weekly turies of Islam. image so people rejected their claims seminar of Abar dealt with the after- The term refers and resorted to reason. math of the recent elections in Iran and to the arguments Sheikh Murtada Faraj from Kuwait their religious and political impact on presented by talked about the the region. Two speakers deliberated those who did concept of athe- on the subject; Mubarak Al Najada, not believe in ism citing a book former Kuwaiti MP and Dr Hassan divine religion or he had published Hani Zadeh from Iran. Mr Al Najada the existence of God. He highlighted a few years ago said that we can present a micro and the discourses that the Imams had titled “Is there macro views on Iran. The first means engaged in especially during the times any doubt in that we discuss the inside of the coun- of Imams Al Baqir, Al Sadiq, Al Kad- God”. He used try, study the various factions and pow- em and Al Rida. This was due to the logic as the foun- er bases. The second requires us to openness of the society at the time dation of proving look at Iran and how it interacts with during what was termed “the Golden the existence of its neighbourhood and the world. He Age” of science, philosophy and juris- God. Science, he said Iran has identified with its neigh- prudence. While he hailed the logical said, cannot bourhood, established good links with approach by the Imams to those disprove or disprove God’s existence. But people, movements and trends. It suc- cussions and how they allowed and logic is the means of achieving ceeded in its civilisational project as it engaged others who presented counter that. Proving God needs a proof, deny- succeeded in dealing with the libera- -arguments on religion and the exist- ing it also needs proof. There is another tion movements. The new president, ence of God, he was critical of the meaning of heresy; to believe in God Ibrahim Raisi will be a reflection of rulers (or caliphs) who exploited the and deny prophethood, divine revela- Qassim Suleimani but with the robes of situation to punish opponents. People tions and divine text. A new wave of a cleric and the diplomacy of a Presi- like Al Jahm ibn Dirham questioned atheism emerged after 11th September, dent. Iran is already powerful and will religious concepts such as the attrib- with writers like Sam Harris (2004), only get stronger under the new presi- utes of God, and was swiftly punished. Ritchard Dawkins and his book “God dent, he said. On the Day of Eid, Khalid Al Qasri, illusion” (2006) and Christopher Dr Hassan Hani Zadeh said that the the Umayyad’s governor of Basrah Hitchins and his book “God is not Great resounding victory of Ibrahim Ra’isi said to the worshippers: Go and cele- (2007). The atheism wave emerged at has been met with a campaign of de- brate your Eid, I will celebrate with Al the beginning as a denial of faith and ception outside Iran. He talked about Jahm. He swiftly beheaded him inside that God does not exist. Then it trans- the “Resistance Axis” in the region the mosque. Many scholars like Al formed into denying religions. Whether which will be embodied by Mr Ra’isi. Hallaj were killed for their arguments the wave of atheism is a phenomenon or But he also showed his keenness on the and views. History was written by the an incident is open to debate. Definitely nuclear deal from an Iranian perspec- rulers not the ordinary man. When the our bahviour, the failure of governments tive. The new era under Ra’isi is likely youth read what these rulers did and to provide satisfactory rule and the lack to be overshadowed by intensification how the considered themselves the of future perspectives are among the of the discord between Iran and Israel. choice of God, they reject religion. factors feeding atheism. There are sever- While he will epitomise the Resistance The writer of history is that who was al reasons for the rise of this phe- Axis he will also work to establish against religion, not Ibn AlMuqaffa, nomeon, ideological, behavioural, moral working relationship with the GCC the man of culture and art. He handed or emotional. We have to distinguish countries. He will also have to speak to Al Mansoor a letter on how to rule, he between ideological and emotional athe- the Eastern neighbours. swiftly accused him of heresy. In 167 AH the Abbassid ruler Mohammad ibn Al Mahdi was walking in the street when he heard Bashar ibn Burd reciting the call to prayers. It was not the time yet. He accused him of heresy and threw him in the river. Ibn Kathir described him as heretic. These are the people of the ruler and his shield. The ordinary man did not have sanctity. Al Walid ibn Abdul Malik brought 40 jurists to issue an edict that the ruler does not go to hell. Al Hallaj was not of this creed, so he was killed in Local Events Page 3

Bangladesh calls for global as- Legacy Secretary General Hassan Al In a bid to prevent spread of the pan- sistance to repatriate Rohingya Thawadi told the virtual Qatar Economic demic infection, Saudi Arabia has an- Forum. nounced it will admit merely pilgrims Bangladesh Prime "There is not a single nation in the world from across the country depriving the Minister Sheikh today that can claim they have the per- foreign pilgrims from the annual pil- Hasina reiterated fect labour system or the perfect worker grimage for the second year. her call for global welfare regime and we are no different. Following the announcement made by assistance to ensure Progress needs to be done, more work Saudi Arabia the process for online dignified and needs to be done." registration of 60,000 pilgrims from peaceful repatria- Qatar's commitment to improving worker across the Arab kingdom began. tion of over 1.1 welfare would continue beyond next While Saudi Arabia preparation to million Rohingyas year's tournament, he said. admit 60,000 pilgrims for Hajj 2021, as she addressed the the quorum was not reached; hence, the IX Moscow Con- US blocks websites number will see decrease in comparison ference on International Security. linked to resistance axis with previous years while a great num- “You are aware that Bangladesh has ber of foreign pilgrims stand enthusiast been hosting more than 1.1 million forci- The US government has seized the do- to perform the ritual. bly displaced Myanmar nationals- mains of websites linked to the resistance A reason for the decrease in number of Rohingyas for about four years. They are axis in line with its hostile policies pilgrims is the healthcare measures posing a huge security threat to Bangla- against them. which have multiplied the prices due to desh as well as the region. We have shel- The Biden administration has blocked the changes in accommodation, food tered them on humanitarian ground but access to several websites belonging to and transportation and the usual prices such a huge population can’t be lodged resistance axis countries on Tuesday in- for Hajj 2021. for indefinite period,” she said. cluding Iran's Press TV and Iraq's The Prime Minister, in her recorded Almaalomah, reported Taqrib News Saudi Khashoggi killers speech aired in the three-day IX Moscow Agency (TNA). received training in U.S. Conference on International Security Other web sites seized in this being held from June 22 on a virtual plat- "coordinated action" are Iran's Arabic Four Saudis who participated in the form, requested again the world commu- language news website Al-Alam and 2018 killing of the Washington Post nity to assist Bangladesh in dignified and Yemeni al Masirah website. journalist Jamal Khashoggi received peaceful repatriation of the Rohingyas. Press TV's website displayed a red and paramilitary training in the United She also said that peace and security white banner in English and Arabic and States the previous year under a con- cannot be ensured unless “we take appro- the seals of FBI and the Commerce De- tract approved by the State Department, priate measures to end human depriva- partment. A complete list of blocked the New York Times reported on Tues- tion and ensure an environment that pro- media is not available. day. vides education and opportunities for This comes after previous hostile The training was provided by Tier 1 all”. measures by the United States to cut off Group, which is owned by the private Iranian media programs from satellite equity firm Cerberus Capital Manage- Qatar improves worker welfare, channels and blocking he accounts of ment, and was defensive in nature and says World Cup 2022 organiser some international networks run by re- devised to protect Saudi leaders, the sistance axis. Times reported. The head of Qatar's World Cup 2022 Price also said U.S. policy towards Sau- organising committee has said conditions di Arabia "will prioritize the rule of law for low paid migrant workers have im- and respect for human rights." proved but that more work was needed Khashoggi, a U.S. resident who wrote and the Gulf Arab state was committed opinion columns for the Washington to doing it. Post critical of Saudi Crown Prince Qatar has faced great international scruti- Mohammed bin Salman, was killed and ny over the treatment of blue collar dismembered by a team of operatives workers ever since it won the rights in linked to the prince in the kingdom's 2010 to host the first World Cup in the consulate in Istanbul in October 2018. Middle East. A U.S. intelligence report in February Qatar has, however, introduced several said MBS had approved an operation to labour reforms since 2010, which it says Hajj pilgrims number shrinks capture or kill the journalist. have benefited workers including raising over restrictions, high prices Cerberus senior the minimum wage last year to $275 a executive Louis month and removing obstacles to chang- The number of pilgrims affording the Bremer confirmed ing employers. "The strong belief we spiked prices of Hajj 2021 has fallen as his company's role have is that every- Saudi Arabia takes stricter healthcare in the training of body living in Qa- measures, increases the prices for the four members of tar or contributing annual pilgrimage. the Khashoggi kill to the development Saudi Arabia has denied permission for team last year in of Qatar is treated foreign Hajj pilgrims amid the corona- written answers to with dignity. Their virus pandemic and increased the prices questions from health and safety is for those performing Hajj pilgrimage members of Con- of the utmost con- 2021, a reason which has decreased the gress as part of his nomination for a cern to us," Su- number of those affording the trip to the senior Pentagon job in former President preme Committee Arab country, reported Taqrib News Donald Trump's administration, accord- for Delivery and Agency (TNA). ing to the Times. Page 4 Open Forum A;-Jayyani: The father of modern spherical trigonometry Born: 989 Al-Jayyani's work On ratio is almost trigonometry. The work, which is pub- Cordoba, Andalusia (now Spain) certainly his most interesting mathemat- lished together with a Spanish translation Died: after 1079 ical work. An English translation of this and a commentary in, contains formulae possibly Jaén, Andalusia (now Spain) remarkable treatise is given in. In this for right-handed triangles, the general Abu Abd Allah Muhammad ibn Muadh work al-Jayyani sets out to de- law of sines, and the solution of a spheri- Al-Jayyani was an Islamic mathemati- fend Euclid's Elements Book V. cal triangle by means of the polar trian- cian working in Spain. He wrote im- In [7] Vahabzadeh writes:- gle. Proofs are sometimes only given as portant commentaries on Euclid’s Ele- Euclid's definition, in Book V of his sketches. Debarnot, in his review of, ar- ments and he wrote the first treatise on "Elements", of the proportionality of gues however that Villuendas:- spherical trigonometry. four magnitudes gave rise to numerous ... in his commentary ... fails to take the Little is known of al-Jayyani's life. commentaries. Of these we have select- originality of the Determination of the Even the identification of al-Jayyani ed two [one being al-Jayyani's] whose magnitudes sufficiently into account. the mathematician with al-Jayyani the goal was not to criticise Euclid's point of Al-Jayyani was to have a strong influ- Spanish scholar who was born in Cor- view but rather to justify it by trying to ence on European mathematics. In addi- doba in 989 is not absolutely certain. make explicit the assumptions underly- tion to translations of his works from the Everything points to this identification ing Euclid's argument. Arabic, his work influenced certain Euro- being correct except once (possible) Al-Jayyani states that he is writing the pean mathematicians. The article argues problem. treatise On ratio (see for example):- that one of Regiomontanus sources The Spanish scholar who was born in ... to explain what may not be clear in was The book of unknown arcs of a Cordoba has exactly the same name as the fifth book of Euclid's writing to such sphere. Among the similarities between the mathematician, and the Spanish as are not satisfied with it. al-Jayyani's treatise and that scholar is described as an expert in the There are five magnitudes that, accord- of Regiomontanus are the definition of Qur'an, also being knowledgeable in ing to al-Jayyani, are used in geometry; ratios as numbers, the lack of a tangent Arabic philology, inheritance laws and number, line, surface, angle, and solid. function, and a similar method of solving arithmetic. Al-Jayyani, the mathemati- Neither Euclid nor any other Greek a spherical triangle when all sides are cian, is described as a judge and a jurist mathematician would have considered unknown. in one of his treatises. The only possi- "number" as a geometrical magnitude, However, the author of remarks that ble problem to the identification is that but al-Jayyani needs the notion for his there are some marked differences in al-Jayyani wrote a treatise on the total definition of ratio which follows the approach between al-Jayyani solar eclipse which occurred in Jaén Arabic idea of number. After assuming and Regiomontanus, such as the proof of on 1 July 1079. The identification that every intelligent person has a basic the spherical sign law. Although it is means that he was over ninety years old understanding of ratio, al-Jayyani de- certain that Regiomontanus based his when he wrote this treatise which, alt- duces further properties based on this treatise on Arabic works on spherical hough certainly not impossible, casts a "commonly understood definition". To trigonometry it may well be that al- slight doubt. justify his approach he writes:- Jayyani's work was only one of many The only other facts known about al- There is no method to make clear what such sources. Jayyani's life are that he lived in Cairo is already clear in itself. The article describes the treatise Kitab al from 1012 to 1017 and that he must He then connects this idea of ratio with -asrar fi nata'ij al-Afkar (The book of have undertaken most of his work in that given by Euclid. The authors secrets about the results of thoughts), Jaén, the city at the centre of the Moor- of write:- Al-Jayyani shows here an attributed to al-Jayyani on the basis of ish principality of Jayyan. This cannot understanding comparable with that internal evidence together with its date. only be deduced from his name "al- of Isaac Barrow, who is customarily The work studies hydraulics and water Jayyani" which means "from Jaén", but regarded as the first to have really un- clocks. also from the fact that the astronomical derstood Euclid's Book V. Work by al-Jayyani on astronomy was tables that he produced were for the Another work of great importance is al- also important. He wrote on the morning longitude of Jaén. Certainly he ob- Jayyani's The book of unknown arcs of a and evening twilight, computing the fair- served the solar eclipse in Jaén in 1079. sphere, the first treatise on spherical ly accurate value of 18° for the angle of the sun below the horizon at the start on morning twilight and at the end of the evening twilight. In the Tabulae Jahen al-Jayyani gave data to enable the calculation of the time of day, the calendar, the new moon, eclipses and information re- quired for the timing and direction for prayers. As was common at this time, not only was there astronomical information in the work but also astrological information on horo- scopes. Al-Jayyani seems to have considerable respect for al- Khwarizmi's astronomical data, which he freely used, but he rejects the ideas of al-Khwarizmi on astrology. Much of al-Jayyani's astrology is based on Hindu sources. Open Forum Page 5 Eyes, Mind and Burqa: Modesty in British Summer Dr Musharraf Hussain, 17th June penalty. Surat Al-Nur deals with the other hand shows control over the body Last week BBC reported that nearly relationship of men and women, with and mind; it lowers the eyes, cultivates a 7,000 rape cases were under investiga- the purpose of creating a social environ- sound mind and develops a sense of spir- tion in schools. “School abuse: ‘Rape ment that promotes modesty and re- ituality. It’s regulating the lust of the culture’ allegations are shocking” said spect. It opens with declaring the severe flesh, the lust of the eyes and the pleas- Williamson the Education secretary. If penalties for sexual crimes of adultery ures of life. This way of dressing reflects British schools are regarded as the bas- and slandering innocent people. It then a person’s sense of shame, purity and tion of morality and decency, then this recommends rules for the mixing of godliness. When individuals and society is a shocking indictment. So, what is men and women, Hijab and personal lack this, inevitably sexual crimes will causing this troublesome hypersexual privacy inside and outside the home. I increase. When sexual crimes come into activity in teenagers? What can be done recommend you study it. The purpose our schools then we really must worry. to curb this dangerous trend? Can mor- of these rules is to develop a decent Restrictions on the intermixing of wom- al and spiritual teachings prevent this environment, free from sexual exploita- en and men. Restraint in getting dressed perversion? Here are some nuggets tion. If it is not properly controlled, then is an important way of warding off sexu- from traditional wisdom. there will be disorder in family life that al harassment, but the restraint in the You will say we’ve been here before, will break up society. These rules are interactions between opposite sexes is the Weinstein saga, and the “me too” powerful preventative measures that just as important to prevent over- movement. Sadly, what the liberal, restrict shameful behaviour. Ignoring familiarity, flirting and physical close- immoral, self-centred and individualis- these rules leads to the spread of sexual ness. That is frowned on in Islamic tic society has unleashed, is a monster exploitation, harassment, indecency, teachings. Mixed gatherings are consid- that has gone wild. Sara a school pupil pornography and prostitution (taken ered immodest. who was a victim of this culture said from The Majestic Quran). Get married. “Help to marry off the sin- “sexual harassment has been Four effective means to stop sexual gles among you … if they are poor then ‘normalised’.” promiscuity Allah will provide for them from His No matter how many government in- The Surah has four recommendations to grace, Allah’s grace is vast, and He is all quiries are conducted it will get worse, prevent sexual exploitation, and to pre- -knowing. Those who are unable to mar- why? Because society doesn’t accept serve chastity and promote modesty: ry should keep themselves chaste until the real cause, it doesn’t believe in Lowering of the eyes. Allah gracefully provides them with chastity nor in modesty and despises Dressing modestly, Allah says “Tell the someone” (Al-Nur:32). The beloved shame and shyness. So, is it any won- believing men; they should lower their messenger (peace be upon him) advised, der we have a culture that has no shame gaze and protect their chastity; this will “young people, get married it is a shield and no respect for girls and women? make their lives purer. Allah is fully that will protect you from lewdness and This society has lost the relationships aware of what they do. And tell the be- sexual perversity.” of mother, sister and daughter. So, you lieving women; they too should lower Conclusion cannot have a cultural change in their gaze, protect their chastity and not Sexuality is an Allah-given gift to be schools and in young people until they expose their beauty except what is visi- harnessed and to be enjoyed, without recognise these fundamental human ble, and their head covers should be reins it will be like riding a wild stallion, relationships. Islamic teachings are an stretched over their breasts” (Al-Nur: dangerous and perilous. Most of our important deterrent and guide to re- 30). The principle is that men and wom- society’s ills can be traced to unrestrict- spectful sexual behaviour. Since it en’s dress should not attract undue at- ed, misguided social practices. The four obliges faithful Muslims to do the right tention, which highlights physical ap- Quranic formulae are the best solution to thing with their bodies. pearance in a sexual way. How should this endemic and widespread behaviour. Chastity, an effective way of safe- Muslims dress? Modestly, beautifully, it The messenger (peace be upon him) guarding yourself mustn’t be tightly taut to the body re- gave glad tidings to those who are mod- Islamic teachings are clear that sexual vealing the contours, nor so bright that est and said they will have ‘peace of relationships should only happen in dazzles the onlooker, nor scant and mind.’ So, lower your eyes, control your marriage. This is chastity, sexual rela- short showing off the midriff, the legs thoughts and your behaviour will be tionships outside of marriage are for- or the breasts. Clothes shouldn’t good. The burqa in UK summer is not a bidden, it’s a major sin with a harsh scream, “Look at me!” The Hijab on the bad idea, just the colour could be lighter! Page 6 Women issues Britain Must Fix Its Anti-Muslim Sentiment Problem By Sania Farooqui number of reported hate women, and people of faith, whether they IPS News Agency, crimes against Muslims in are Hindus, Sikhs, Christians or Jews, the U.K. soared by 5. 93%. they have got to be careful because by NEW DELHI, India, Jun Muslims in Oxford, South- demonising people, you push people back 14 2021 (IPS) - In 2015, ampton and Colindale, and not with you. When Rabina Khan was North London had reported “There are 3.3 million Muslims living in running as an independent “gun gestures or firearms the UK today, making billions of contri- candidate in the Tower noises being directed at butions for the British economy, we are a Hamlets’ mayoral elec- them”. huge population and we are a big voter tions in London, a male Last year in 2020, a dossier sector that should be valued and respect- voter asked her what col- of more than 300 allega- ed. So whilst I welcome Prime Minister our her hair was under her tions of Islamopho- Boris Johnson apologising, I also give veil. Rabina replied and bia against Prime Minister credit to the Conservative party, because said, it was pink. This Boris Johnson and other they were the party in government who small interaction is what members of the Conserva- introduced Sharia law finance for Muslim got Rabina inspired to write her book, tive party had been submitted to the communties, so if they have managed to My Hair is Pink Under This Veil. Equalities and Human Rights Commis- do that, I am sure they can manage to The book is about a Muslim woman liv- sion to launch a formal investigation. address the Islamophobic behaviour,” ing in the United Kingdom and how she Another report by The Labour Muslim says Rabina. reconciles her faith with British culture to Network, which is the largest group of For British Muslims and people of colour, construct a successful political career Muslim members and supporters of hate crimes against minorities have be- against the backdrop of blame, bias, igno- Labour in one its reports stated that, come a new normal in the country. Many rance and misogyny. Rabina Khan more than one in four Muslim members have chosen to leave the United Kingdom through her own personal experience of and supporters of Labour partt – 29 as it has become “too dangerous to stay”. wearing a Hijab, also highlights the out- percent – have experienced Islamopho- Hate crimes have now been extended dated views about Muslim women, chal- bia within the ranks of Labour party, to Britain’s East and Southeast lenges the notions of what a Muslim “stemming from ignorance and systemic Asian communities as well, which has woman can or can’t do and also questions racism, which may not be overt but does seen a 300-percent increase since the UK the stereotypes. exist.” was placed under its first lockdown due to “The reason why I responded in that Just a few weeks ago, Prime Minister the coronavirus surge across the country. manner was to question the notion that Boris Johnson issued a qualified apolo- These negative characterizations of mi- hijab wearing muslim women had no gy for offence caused by his past re- nority groups in the United Kingdom per- interest in hairstyles, vibrant colors, or marks about Islam, including a 2018 petuates the view that minority groups fashion,” says Rabina Khan in an inter- newspaper column in which he referred embody the most extreme ‘other’ charac- view to me. to women wearing burqas as “going teristic traits, or that they are a risk to “There has always been this narrative around looking like letterboxes” and national security due to dangers associat- around Muslim women that we are seen likened their appearance to bank rob- ed with inherent radicalisation or in the to be oppressed, we do not have a life, we bers. A report in 2019 found that Islam- case of Islamophobia, that muslim voices do not anticipate to become professionals ophobic incidents rose by 375 percent of resistance are untrustworthy. in different sectors or that we become the week after Boris Johnson’s article, Whether it is Islamophobia, Xenophobia, politicians. Women like us, women of with 42 percent of reported racist abuse hate crime against different communities color, women of faith, do have a difficult in the streets of the UK directly refer- or normalization of Islamophobia by poli- time in mainstream society because we encing his language. ticians in the United Kingdom, all of it are seeing stereotypes, racism, and preju- “His (Boris Johnson) comments had a raises multiple questions whether they are dice,” Rabina says. profound effect, and a damaging effect simply a manifestation of a deeply rooted Over the last few years, the United King- on Muslim women, and specificially anti-immigrant and anti-refugee sentiment dom has seen Islamophobia rise at a very towards Muslim women in veil,” says in British politics. If so, then it is high disturbing rate. In 2011, Lady Warsi Rabina. time Britain changes its political culture claimed that Islamophobia was socially “It is really important for politicians to and discourse and moves towards becom- acceptable in Britain, and “passed the be careful the way they depict Muslim ing an inclusive society that it was, atleast dinner-table test”. until a few years ago. In 2015, the Muslim Council of Britain Prejudices, biases and political underre- warned of increasing levels of Islam- spresentation of ethnic minorities have ophobia in the UK after a few videos often been used as a political tool during were posted online showing anti-Muslim elections, but a government’s progress or abuse on public transport. a political leaders progress is determinded UN experts had warned of a ‘stark in- not just based on apologies issued for crease’ in hate crimes across the UK, post ‘past comments on Islam’, but on the -Brexit vote in 2018. The UN Special overarching actions taken to ensure equal- Rapporteur on racism, xenophobia and ity, inclusivity and mechanisms put in intolerance, E. Tendayi Achiume said, “it place to protect against such attacks or was worrying that the anti-migrant, anti- statements in the future, which should be foreigner rhetoric, developed around the considered not just offensive, but also an campaign in favour of Brexit had become offence. Britain must fix it’s Anti-muslim widespread in society, going as far as to sentiment problem and do it without oth- add that a hateful and stigmatising dis- ering the community and it’s people. As course had become “normalised” – even Rabina says, “double standard is a struc- involving some high-ranking officials”. tural inequality that perpetuates bigotry, In 2019, a week after the Christchurch Rabina Khan racism and Islamophobia.” mosque attacks in New Zealand, the Off the Shelf Page 7 Coping with Defeat: Sunni Islam, Roman Catholicism, and the Modern State Jonathan Laurence scholarship […] by an eminent Ameri- Coping with Defeat presents a histori- can observer of Islam"—The Econo- cal panorama of the Islamic and Catho- mist lic political-religious empires and ex- "Examining how Catholic and Islamic poses striking parallels in their relation- authorities effectively traded places in ship with the modern state. Drawing on their relationship to the state, this ambi- interviews, site visits, and archival re- tious book is a provocative contribution search in Turkey, North Africa, and to the debates over the rise of secular- Western Europe, Jonathan Laurence ism, the future of Islam, and church- demonstrates how, over hundreds of state relations."—Anna Grzymala- years, both Sunni and Catholic authori- Busse, Stanford University ties experienced three major shocks and "With rich historical detail, Coping displacements—religious reformation, with Defeat offers an outstanding per- the rise of the nation-state, and mass spective on the evolution of Roman migration. As a result, Catholic institu- Catholicism and Sunni Islam. It is hard tions eventually accepted the state’s to think of a social scientist who could political jurisdiction and embraced match Laurence’s breadth and depth of transnational spiritual leadership as expertise in both religions, along with their central mission. Laurence reveals his sensitivity to political contexts. His an analogous process unfolding across book will spark vigorous debates."— the Sunni Muslim world in the twenty- Andrew C. Gould, University of Notre first century. Dame Identifying institutional patterns before Jonathan Laurence is professor of and after political collapse, Laurence political science at Boston College. He shows how centralized religious com- Laurence’s findings is that the disestab- is the author of The Emancipation of munities relinquish power at different lishment of Islam—the doing away with Europe’s Muslims (Princeton) and his rates and times. Whereas early Christi- Islamic affairs ministries in the Muslim work has appeared in such venues as anity and Islam were characterized by world—would harm, not help with, rec- the New York Times and The Econo- missionary expansion, religious institu- onciliation to the rule of law. mist. tions forged in the modern era are pri- Examining upheavals in geography, Publisher: Princeton Univ Press marily defensive in nature. They re- politics, and demography, Coping with Hardcover 552 pages £82.00 spond to the simple but overlooked Defeat considers how centralized reli- ISBN: 9780691220543 imperative to adapt to political defeat gions make peace with the loss Paperback 606 pages £30.00 while fighting off ideological challeng- of prestige. ISBN: 9780691172125 es to their spiritual authority. Among "A closely argued, contrarian piece of Published (UK): Jul 13, 2021 Alfarabi's Book of Dialectic (Kitāb al-Jadal) On the Starting Point of Islamic Philosophy By: David M. DiPasquale, farabi's logical and political writings, opening up novel ways of interpreting Widely regarded as the founder of Alfarabi's influence. the Islamic philosophical tradition, and as the single greatest philosoph- The first complete English translation ical authority after Aristotle by his of this central text in the Islamic philo- successors in the medieval Islamic, sophical tradition Jewish, and Christian communities, Demonstrates Alfarabi's wide-ranging Alfarabi was a leading figure in the influence, on Jewish and Greek thought fields of Aristotelian logic and Pla- as well as Islamic philosophy and his- tonic political science. The first tory complete English translation of his A meticulously researched edition in- commentary on Aristotle's Topics, cluding a full commentary and notes on Alfarabi's Book of Dialectic, or the text Kitāb al-Jadal, is presented here in a David M. DiPasquale is Assistant Pro- deeply researched edition based on fessor of the Practice in the Department the most complete Arabic manu- of Political Science and the Islamic script sources. David M. DiPasquale Civilization and Societies Program at argues that Alfarabi's understanding Boston College where he specializes in of the Socratic art of dialectic is the Islamic philosophy, law, and political key prism through which to grasp philosophy. his recovery of an authentic tradition of Greek science on the verge Publisher: Cambridge Univ Press of extinction. He also suggests that Date of publishing: July 2021 the Book of Dialectic is unique to Paperback £ 24.99 the extent to which it unites Al- ISBN: 9781108405430 Page 8 Words of Faith

.3Who establish The Conundrum “God’s plan and vision is much greater than regular prayers what we see. Life and death are a reality of and spend (freely) Saulat Pervez life. Every person must die. It is really sad out of the gifts It was all over the news. The earthquake had what has happened to all of these people, but We have given wiped out whole towns. The entire country we must also remember that God gives us the them for suste- was in shock. Upcoming festivals were can- reassurance that if believers die in such a state, nance: they are martyrs. What a high station! Which .4Such in truth celled and citywide donation drives were are the believers: springing up everywhere. Charity organiza- is why it baffles me every time I hear that they have grades tions were activating their networks and somehow this was a punishment,” he pointedly of dignity with sending teams of volunteers to help in the remarked, looking at his brother who stayed their Lord and rescue efforts. quiet. forgiveness and “This is God’s punishment for all the evil He sighed and continued, “For those who are generous suste- things we do,” her uncle said mournfully. gone, we must pray for their souls. And take nance. She was confused. If they were doing bad care of the survivors. As for us, we need to .5Just as thy Lord draw ourselves nearer to God and follow His ordered thee out things, then shouldn’t they be dead too? She looked at her father to see what he would guidance, so that when our turn comes, we are of thy house in ready.” truth even say. He shook his head and countered, though a party “That’s not true, you know. This is a trial He pulled her close to him and she felt safe. among the believ- from God. And it is a reminder for us to be ers disliked it. conscious of Him and be aware of His pow- A Tyrant Needs no Excuse 2. Again and again er. So that we may worship Him more.” will those who “So, you’re saying that bad things don’t hap- A fox was drinking water from a stream on a disbelieve, wish pen because of our wicked deeds?” her uncle that they had mountain top when he noticed that down- bowed (to Allah.s challenged his brother. stream in the valley a young lamb was drink- will) in Islam. “No, they can, but we have no way of knowing from the same stream. 3. Leave them ing for certain. After all, God also promises The fox trotted down the stream and came up alone, to enjoy us that He will test us to see which of us is to the lamb. The fox sought an excuse to seize (the good things better in action. As a reminder of His pres- the lamb and said: “You are drinking from my of this life) and ence and power.” stream. You are polluting the water that I to please them- “So, you prefer to turn a blind eye to God’s drink”. selves: let (false) punishment just because you’re not sure?” “How can I pollute the water for you, O fox?” hope amuse them: He asked incredulously. protested the lamb. “I am down in the valley soon will “Of course not. All I am saying is that I knowledge and you drink upstream in the mountains. (undeceive them). don’t know – and neither do you! So, instead The fox was taken aback because the lamb was 4. Never did We de- of delving into God’s matters and condemn- telling the truth. He needed a different excuse stroy a popula- ing everyone, especially the victims, we to pounce on the lamb. tion that had not should focus on rectifying our own selves! “Three months ago I was sound asleep under a a term decreed This is a time for astaghfar, for asking for- tree. You made so much noise with your ‘bah’, and assigned be- giveness,” her father shook his head again. ‘bah’ that it woke me up and you ruined my forehand. “Well, that’s precisely my point! If we see day” said the fox. (al-anfal) this as punishment, it will strike fear in our “How could I wake you up three months ago hearts and make us change our ways, so we when I am only two months old?” answered www.abraronline. can avert another disaster!” the little lamb. “Yes, but the problem with that logic is that, Now the fox was at a loss. Logic was not on net in the process, you have denounced whole This is our website. his side. He needed some other alibi to com- swaths of people who may be completely plete his sly plan. Have visited it: It innocent. Only God knows,” he emphasized. “It must have been your uncle who was shout- will put you face- She was so proud of her father. His explana- ing ‘bah’ ‘bah’ and kept me awake”. to-face with an al- tion made so much more sense, but she couldn’t resist asking, “Baba, why would ternative world, full God let such a terrible thing happen?” of spirituality, mo- “Because He is angry,” her uncle immediate- rality coupled with ly responded. Apparently, he hadn’t changed modern outlooks his mind. “My dear,” her father began, ignoring his and perspectives. brother. We want to hear your views on its contents, layout and general quality.

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