Content about Religion

June 18, 2013
Brain Research: Quranic Memorization Key to Muslim Scientific Discoveries

 

When neuroscientist Mohamed Ghilan researched the reason for unparalleled scientific discovery and advancement by Muslims during the golden age of Islam, he found a link between memorizing Holy Quran, improved thinking and scientific discovery. When learning Holy Quran the careful attention to listening and pronunciation stimulates an area of the brain in the temporal lobe which is the memory consolidation center. The more activation this area receives, such as what occurs when memorizing Holy Quran, the better and more efficient the temporal lobe becomes in its capacity for learning and memory. His findings shed new light on what some scientists have admitted was a rate of achievement by Muslims yet to be replicated anywhere in the world. In fact one non Muslim professor of a class on the History of Science stated that were it not for political problems and discord, Muslims would have reached the moon by the 1400’s.    

This understanding about the Islamic education system that shaped the brains and thinking of a civilization has been spoken about by many Muslim religious scholars Mr Ghilan noted. The scholars often reflect that when Muslims were the leaders, the Holy Quran was at the centre of their education system. However when they abandoned the Holy Quran they lost their reign. Mr Ghilan’s study looked beyond the spiritual and moral aspect into what actually takes place in the brain. He was able to identify a long list of brain and other human functions that are enhanced by studying Holy Quran.

His information came from his teachers and reading the biographies of Traditional Muslim Scholars such as Ibn Rushd and Ibn Sina. Also he personally experienced how Muslims become scholars in the traditional Muslim world. Mr Ghilan has learnt that the very first thing taught to an aspiring student was the Quran. Holy Quran had to be memorized completely. The process of memorization involves Arabic “Tajweed” which meant that students had to pronounce letters and words correctly by learning how to generate letter sounds from the mouth or throat. They also had to place the tongue in the correct position. Then the “Quranic ayats” were written on a wooden board in the Othmani script following specific spelling rules which are different from regular Arabic writing. The student then left to memorize the “ayat”.

A beginning student repeated one verse several times from the board under his teacher’s guidance to memorize the spelling. This was written and repeated at home until the next day before returning to class. The student then repeated the verse accurately before receiving the next verse to memorize. On the third day the first ayat was repeated once, the second ayat multiple times and a third ayat was given to memorize. By day four the first ayat would have taken hold in the memory and was not repeated. The second verse replaced it for review and the memorization cycle was repeated until the end of the week when a complete review of all that was learnt was done.   

Using this method of memorization and writing, the capacity for memory was increased over time. The student was then able to learn larger sections at a time. Eventually the entire Quran with over 6,236 ayats was memorized correctly in one mode of recitation. The student then had to review the entire Quran on a monthly basis so as not to forget it. Some students actually went on to learn all 10 modes of reciting Holy Quran. After the Holy Quran was mastered the brain was “trained” and students in their early teens went on to learn and excel in science and other fields of knowledge.

Some noteworthy features of the glorious Quran relate to its rhythmic sound. Ayats in the Quran rhyme and change rhythm often, which gives a pleasurable effect to the listener. Also the Quran is sung (recited?) rather than read as Tajweed forces the reciter to sing (in a rhythmic pattern/recitation) in order to enunciate the words accurately. This entire process has been linked to the brain by Mr Ghilan. He noted that the brain is a malleable organ that can change its connections and even the size of certain areas based on how active they become. Understanding how involved the brain of someone learning the Quran using the traditional Muslim method becomes, can explain how Muslims were able to achieve such success in their knowledge endeavors.

Listening and pronunciation during memorization stimulates the temporal lobe which contains the hippocampus- the memory centre of the brain. This is the same region used to process musical sounds such as occurs when Holy Quran is recited. Also as the student writes, the same region is activated thereby increasing the person’s aptitude for learning new information. As activation of this region increases it becomes better at learning and memorization.

Mr. Ghilan explained that the parietal lobes also become quite heavily engaged during memorization of Holy Quran. The left parietal lobe processes reading, writing and speech as well as math and logic problems. The right parietal lobe manages speech tone, which is related to elocution (pronunciation). It is also responsible for visuospatial relationships and understanding facial expressions. The front part is responsible for the sense of touch discrimination and recognition, which is active during handwriting. The back part plays an important role in attention. Both lobes are also activated during skill learning tasks. Generally the stimulation to the parietal lobes that could be derived from memorization of Holy Quran can result in better logic and math-solving skills, eloquence in speech and improved ability to read emotional states from facial cues. It can also improve the student’s attention and capacity for understanding visuospatial relationships. Improved visuospatial understanding can explain why Muslims were so good at astronomy.

Quranic recitation also strongly activates the frontal lobes and the primary motor cortex of the brain. The frontal lobes deal with higher order functions such as working memory, memory retrieval, speech production and written-word recognition, sustained attention, planning and social behavior. When a student was for example reading the Othamni script, his brain had to quickly decide on the proper pronunciation of the word and distinguish it from other possibilities. Remarkably with practice the brain will do these things without conscious control from the student. This trains the area of the brain responsible for inhibition, which is important for interacting with people. Studies have shown that children with ADHD have under-development in this area of the brain.

Additionally, the descriptions of individuals and places contained in Holy Quran activate the occipital lobes, which assist in generating mental imagery. This brain region is also important for visual perception. Increasing the capacity for mental imagery also indirectly improves visual perception capacities which are activated within the same region. The historical accounts, parables and logical arguments contained in Holy Quran also utilize different areas of the brain and help the brain to become more efficient and better connected due to the continual activation that occurs with consistent review sessions.

Today traditional methods of education are difficult to locate. Mr. Ghilan reported that he found this method of teaching Holy Quran among the Bedouin scholars in the Sahara desert of West Africa. They are brilliant. However because they do not have access to modern technology and science, their brilliance is limited to Islamic sciences. He suggested that the world needs a “Traditional Islamic Education/ Technology” hybrid programme that places the Holy Quran at the centre of the education system.  

Further reading-

  1. http://mohamedghilan.com/2012/01/12/how-the-quran-shapes-the-brain/

Newsweek article (January) by Sharon Begley, author of “Train Your Mind, Change Your Brain”. How memorization of e.g. Shakespearan sonnets, can help to increase IQ. Link to the article: http://www.thedailybeast.com/newsweek/2012/01/01/buff-your-brain.html

June 18, 2013
Brain Research: Quranic Memorization Key to Muslim Scientific Discoveries

 

When neuroscientist Mohamed Ghilan researched the reason for unparalleled scientific discovery and advancement by Muslims during the golden age of Islam, he found a link between memorizing Holy Quran, improved thinking and scientific discovery. When learning Holy Quran the careful attention to listening and pronunciation stimulates an area of the brain in the temporal lobe which is the memory consolidation center. The more activation this area receives, such as what occurs when memorizing Holy Quran, the better and more efficient the temporal lobe becomes in its capacity for learning and memory. His findings shed new light on what some scientists have admitted was a rate of achievement by Muslims yet to be replicated anywhere in the world. In fact one non Muslim professor of a class on the History of Science stated that were it not for political problems and discord, Muslims would have reached the moon by the 1400’s.    

This understanding about the Islamic education system that shaped the brains and thinking of a civilization has been spoken about by many Muslim religious scholars Mr Ghilan noted. The scholars often reflect that when Muslims were the leaders, the Holy Quran was at the centre of their education system. However when they abandoned the Holy Quran they lost their reign. Mr Ghilan’s study looked beyond the spiritual and moral aspect into what actually takes place in the brain. He was able to identify a long list of brain and other human functions that are enhanced by studying Holy Quran.

His information came from his teachers and reading the biographies of Traditional Muslim Scholars such as Ibn Rushd and Ibn Sina. Also he personally experienced how Muslims become scholars in the traditional Muslim world. Mr Ghilan has learnt that the very first thing taught to an aspiring student was the Quran. Holy Quran had to be memorized completely. The process of memorization involves Arabic “Tajweed” which meant that students had to pronounce letters and words correctly by learning how to generate letter sounds from the mouth or throat. They also had to place the tongue in the correct position. Then the “Quranic ayats” were written on a wooden board in the Othmani script following specific spelling rules which are different from regular Arabic writing. The student then left to memorize the “ayat”.

A beginning student repeated one verse several times from the board under his teacher’s guidance to memorize the spelling. This was written and repeated at home until the next day before returning to class. The student then repeated the verse accurately before receiving the next verse to memorize. On the third day the first ayat was repeated once, the second ayat multiple times and a third ayat was given to memorize. By day four the first ayat would have taken hold in the memory and was not repeated. The second verse replaced it for review and the memorization cycle was repeated until the end of the week when a complete review of all that was learnt was done.   

Using this method of memorization and writing, the capacity for memory was increased over time. The student was then able to learn larger sections at a time. Eventually the entire Quran with over 6,236 ayats was memorized correctly in one mode of recitation. The student then had to review the entire Quran on a monthly basis so as not to forget it. Some students actually went on to learn all 10 modes of reciting Holy Quran. After the Holy Quran was mastered the brain was “trained” and students in their early teens went on to learn and excel in science and other fields of knowledge.

Some noteworthy features of the glorious Quran relate to its rhythmic sound. Ayats in the Quran rhyme and change rhythm often, which gives a pleasurable effect to the listener. Also the Quran is sung (recited?) rather than read as Tajweed forces the reciter to sing (in a rhythmic pattern/recitation) in order to enunciate the words accurately. This entire process has been linked to the brain by Mr Ghilan. He noted that the brain is a malleable organ that can change its connections and even the size of certain areas based on how active they become. Understanding how involved the brain of someone learning the Quran using the traditional Muslim method becomes, can explain how Muslims were able to achieve such success in their knowledge endeavors.

Listening and pronunciation during memorization stimulates the temporal lobe which contains the hippocampus- the memory centre of the brain. This is the same region used to process musical sounds such as occurs when Holy Quran is recited. Also as the student writes, the same region is activated thereby increasing the person’s aptitude for learning new information. As activation of this region increases it becomes better at learning and memorization.

Mr. Ghilan explained that the parietal lobes also become quite heavily engaged during memorization of Holy Quran. The left parietal lobe processes reading, writing and speech as well as math and logic problems. The right parietal lobe manages speech tone, which is related to elocution (pronunciation). It is also responsible for visuospatial relationships and understanding facial expressions. The front part is responsible for the sense of touch discrimination and recognition, which is active during handwriting. The back part plays an important role in attention. Both lobes are also activated during skill learning tasks. Generally the stimulation to the parietal lobes that could be derived from memorization of Holy Quran can result in better logic and math-solving skills, eloquence in speech and improved ability to read emotional states from facial cues. It can also improve the student’s attention and capacity for understanding visuospatial relationships. Improved visuospatial understanding can explain why Muslims were so good at astronomy.

Quranic recitation also strongly activates the frontal lobes and the primary motor cortex of the brain. The frontal lobes deal with higher order functions such as working memory, memory retrieval, speech production and written-word recognition, sustained attention, planning and social behavior. When a student was for example reading the Othamni script, his brain had to quickly decide on the proper pronunciation of the word and distinguish it from other possibilities. Remarkably with practice the brain will do these things without conscious control from the student. This trains the area of the brain responsible for inhibition, which is important for interacting with people. Studies have shown that children with ADHD have under-development in this area of the brain.

Additionally, the descriptions of individuals and places contained in Holy Quran activate the occipital lobes, which assist in generating mental imagery. This brain region is also important for visual perception. Increasing the capacity for mental imagery also indirectly improves visual perception capacities which are activated within the same region. The historical accounts, parables and logical arguments contained in Holy Quran also utilize different areas of the brain and help the brain to become more efficient and better connected due to the continual activation that occurs with consistent review sessions.

Today traditional methods of education are difficult to locate. Mr. Ghilan reported that he found this method of teaching Holy Quran among the Bedouin scholars in the Sahara desert of West Africa. They are brilliant. However because they do not have access to modern technology and science, their brilliance is limited to Islamic sciences. He suggested that the world needs a “Traditional Islamic Education/ Technology” hybrid programme that places the Holy Quran at the centre of the education system.  

Further reading-

  1. http://mohamedghilan.com/2012/01/12/how-the-quran-shapes-the-brain/

Newsweek article (January) by Sharon Begley, author of “Train Your Mind, Change Your Brain”. How memorization of e.g. Shakespearan sonnets, can help to increase IQ. Link to the article: http://www.thedailybeast.com/newsweek/2012/01/01/buff-your-brain.html

June 18, 2013
IQOU Health and Wellness Department to Establish Community Mental Health Clinic in California

 

It has been recently reported by CNN that the new film in the Twilight movie series has induced in-theater seizures in many of the patrons who went to view it.  It was also CNN that last year reported that the film Avatar had a similar effect.  This phenomenon is not new however, for it has been connected to movies and video games in the past.  In 1997 thousands of school children reported to Japanese hospitals with epileptic activity as a result of watching an episode of the Pokémon cartoon.  The earliest of these incidents was reported in the 1980s when children playing the Nintendo gaming system began having seizures after playing a few of their games.  It occurred in such a frequency that it prompted the game maker to issue the following warning:   “WARNING: A very small portion of the population have a condition which may cause them to experience epileptic seizures or have momentary loss of consciousness when viewing certain kinds of flashing lights or patterns that are commonly present in our daily environment.…If you or your child experience any of the following symptoms: dizziness, altered vision, eye or muscle twitching, involuntary movements, loss of awareness, disorientation, or convulsions, DISCONTINUE USE IMMEDIATELY and consult your physician”.  

As with all the above mentioned occurrences, the etiology was thought to be the same.  It is believed that all the people who suffered these seizures actually had a condition that predisposed them to epileptic activity.   Photosensitive Epilepsy(or PSE) , as it is called, is thought to be a result of these individuals being exposed to bright flashing patterns of red, black and white light.  It is estimated that 1 in every 5,000 people suffer from PSE but interestingly many of the afflicted never experience a seizure when exposed to these light configurations.

Why is that?  If these people all have the same condition why is it that many people suffering from this supposed condition PSE have no seizure activity when exposed to these patterns of light? Extrapolating on this idea it is thus possible that this explanation is inaccurate.  The true explanation lies in a scientific method that has existed since ancient times.  It is called the Sufic Scientific Method and can provide a cure for and an explanation to the many incurable and unexplainable psychiatric maladies that exist.   

It should be logical that psychology is not purely a science of the organic.  If it were there would not be so many tenets of its current practice grounded in theory.  Diagnosis of conditions would be definitive and treatments would be curative.  The problem is that many have strayed away from the true science of psychology—and its associated medical subspecialty psychiatry—in order to propagate a system in which the goal is to exploit people and make money.   The current dogma of science and medicine is at most inadequate in helping us understand these mental issues.  This being the case, diagnosing and treating mental ailments is extremely challenging and grave errors are made often—case in point the attribution of Post Avatar Depression to unfulfilled fantasies and the total attribution of epileptic seizures to flashing light patterns.    The International Quranic Open University (IQOU) has been working diligently to alert the public of the TRUE cause of these symptoms, namely possession by Jinns and the astonishing level of moral decay that exists in many societies around the globe.   Jinns are unseen entities that inhabit the world simultaneously with human beings, and often interact with them on different levels.  Sometimes the interactions are congenial but for the most part these exchanges have troublesome results.  Due to the current level of moral unrest in our society, the amount of negative interactions has escalated.  The Abdul Qadir Gilani Sufic Science Institute (or AQJ)—a special branch of the IQOU—has been developed to instruct students in the sciences of the soul and the unseen.  

As a central purpose of the AQJ is to eradicate the scourge of mental disease from humanity, we have recently released a DVD titled Jinnology.  This discourse not only depicts the nature of Jinns—the causal organisms responsible for many mental disorders—it also contains healing for those who watch it.  

Additionally the AQJ continues to conduct research and other scientific endeavors using the El Gilani Methodology (or EGM).   For those not aware, this is a treatment modality in which Quranic chapters and other spiritual exercises are prescribed for the treatment of non-physical or spiritual afflictions—for which mental disease is the predominate category.  EGM was scientifically demonstrated extensively at a hospital in Taif, Egypt in the late 1970s and continues to be confirmed by many examples today. This modality embodies the saying “never underestimate the power of words”!  As the number of successful scientific demonstrations of EGM continue to increase, the number of people seeking this treatment is also multiplying, but at a greater rate.  As such clinics are being established all over the globe to accommodate this increasing demand.  

IQOU department of health and wellness are currently seeking to establish a center in Los Angeles, CA.  We are imploring all those who may treat mental patients, who are suffering from mental afflictions, who seek EGM, and the community at large, to assist us with this endeavor in whatever way that you can.  

As members of this department have placed their lives in jeopardy and selflessly given their monies, time, and medical expertise at catastrophic disasters such as Ground Zero, Hurricane Katrina, and the devastating earthquake in Pakistan in 2005, we have done so with the charitable gifts of the community.  Please continue this openhandedness and support this venture for we are responding to this grave crisis whose stake is the mental health of all humanity.

We are attempting to establish a fully equipped and fully staffed multipurpose clinic which will specialize in EGM, psychiatric counseling, childhood illnesses, prenatal care, and general well being. Through this new facility, medical assistance will be given to all that are in need.  The construction of the clinic is to begin immediately.

With sincere appreciation on behalf of the IQOU Health and Wellness department to you all!

Make checks and money orders payable to:
Abdul Qadir Gilani Sufic Scientific and Psychiatric Clinic of Holy Islamberg
2732B Roods Creek Road 
Hancock, New York 13783 

Payments may also be made via PayPal to: depdirectoriqou@yahoo.com

For other means please call (607) 467-1596 (BABAH G INTERPRISES)

June 18, 2013
IQOU Health and Wellness Department to Establish Community Mental Health Clinic in California

 

It has been recently reported by CNN that the new film in the Twilight movie series has induced in-theater seizures in many of the patrons who went to view it.  It was also CNN that last year reported that the film Avatar had a similar effect.  This phenomenon is not new however, for it has been connected to movies and video games in the past.  In 1997 thousands of school children reported to Japanese hospitals with epileptic activity as a result of watching an episode of the Pokémon cartoon.  The earliest of these incidents was reported in the 1980s when children playing the Nintendo gaming system began having seizures after playing a few of their games.  It occurred in such a frequency that it prompted the game maker to issue the following warning:   “WARNING: A very small portion of the population have a condition which may cause them to experience epileptic seizures or have momentary loss of consciousness when viewing certain kinds of flashing lights or patterns that are commonly present in our daily environment.…If you or your child experience any of the following symptoms: dizziness, altered vision, eye or muscle twitching, involuntary movements, loss of awareness, disorientation, or convulsions, DISCONTINUE USE IMMEDIATELY and consult your physician”.  

As with all the above mentioned occurrences, the etiology was thought to be the same.  It is believed that all the people who suffered these seizures actually had a condition that predisposed them to epileptic activity.   Photosensitive Epilepsy(or PSE) , as it is called, is thought to be a result of these individuals being exposed to bright flashing patterns of red, black and white light.  It is estimated that 1 in every 5,000 people suffer from PSE but interestingly many of the afflicted never experience a seizure when exposed to these light configurations.

Why is that?  If these people all have the same condition why is it that many people suffering from this supposed condition PSE have no seizure activity when exposed to these patterns of light? Extrapolating on this idea it is thus possible that this explanation is inaccurate.  The true explanation lies in a scientific method that has existed since ancient times.  It is called the Sufic Scientific Method and can provide a cure for and an explanation to the many incurable and unexplainable psychiatric maladies that exist.   

It should be logical that psychology is not purely a science of the organic.  If it were there would not be so many tenets of its current practice grounded in theory.  Diagnosis of conditions would be definitive and treatments would be curative.  The problem is that many have strayed away from the true science of psychology—and its associated medical subspecialty psychiatry—in order to propagate a system in which the goal is to exploit people and make money.   The current dogma of science and medicine is at most inadequate in helping us understand these mental issues.  This being the case, diagnosing and treating mental ailments is extremely challenging and grave errors are made often—case in point the attribution of Post Avatar Depression to unfulfilled fantasies and the total attribution of epileptic seizures to flashing light patterns.    The International Quranic Open University (IQOU) has been working diligently to alert the public of the TRUE cause of these symptoms, namely possession by Jinns and the astonishing level of moral decay that exists in many societies around the globe.   Jinns are unseen entities that inhabit the world simultaneously with human beings, and often interact with them on different levels.  Sometimes the interactions are congenial but for the most part these exchanges have troublesome results.  Due to the current level of moral unrest in our society, the amount of negative interactions has escalated.  The Abdul Qadir Gilani Sufic Science Institute (or AQJ)—a special branch of the IQOU—has been developed to instruct students in the sciences of the soul and the unseen.  

As a central purpose of the AQJ is to eradicate the scourge of mental disease from humanity, we have recently released a DVD titled Jinnology.  This discourse not only depicts the nature of Jinns—the causal organisms responsible for many mental disorders—it also contains healing for those who watch it.  

Additionally the AQJ continues to conduct research and other scientific endeavors using the El Gilani Methodology (or EGM).   For those not aware, this is a treatment modality in which Quranic chapters and other spiritual exercises are prescribed for the treatment of non-physical or spiritual afflictions—for which mental disease is the predominate category.  EGM was scientifically demonstrated extensively at a hospital in Taif, Egypt in the late 1970s and continues to be confirmed by many examples today. This modality embodies the saying “never underestimate the power of words”!  As the number of successful scientific demonstrations of EGM continue to increase, the number of people seeking this treatment is also multiplying, but at a greater rate.  As such clinics are being established all over the globe to accommodate this increasing demand.  

IQOU department of health and wellness are currently seeking to establish a center in Los Angeles, CA.  We are imploring all those who may treat mental patients, who are suffering from mental afflictions, who seek EGM, and the community at large, to assist us with this endeavor in whatever way that you can.  

As members of this department have placed their lives in jeopardy and selflessly given their monies, time, and medical expertise at catastrophic disasters such as Ground Zero, Hurricane Katrina, and the devastating earthquake in Pakistan in 2005, we have done so with the charitable gifts of the community.  Please continue this openhandedness and support this venture for we are responding to this grave crisis whose stake is the mental health of all humanity.

We are attempting to establish a fully equipped and fully staffed multipurpose clinic which will specialize in EGM, psychiatric counseling, childhood illnesses, prenatal care, and general well being. Through this new facility, medical assistance will be given to all that are in need.  The construction of the clinic is to begin immediately.

With sincere appreciation on behalf of the IQOU Health and Wellness department to you all!

Make checks and money orders payable to:
Abdul Qadir Gilani Sufic Scientific and Psychiatric Clinic of Holy Islamberg
2732B Roods Creek Road 
Hancock, New York 13783 

Payments may also be made via PayPal to: depdirectoriqou@yahoo.com

For other means please call (607) 467-1596 (BABAH G INTERPRISES)

June 17, 2013
“The Red Road,” My Journey to Islam

 

All Praise is due to Allah, the Creator who guided me to Islam, the Way of Life, the Red Road, the Straight Path.

I, Lois Stands-Ali, began my journey on the Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota, in the Oglala community. When I was born, my earth parents placed me in the care of my grandmother, a mid-wife and a spiritual woman. We attended many ceremonies and pow-wows, and I witnessed other spirits begin their journeys. Taught as a child by my grandmother to respect Mitakoyasin, all of my relations, and to know that I was Lakota -the people. I did not understand all of the many words of wisdom that she shared. Yet, throughout the years, all that she told me has helped in every way one could imagine.

One thing that really stuck in my head was when she told me: “There are Washecus (foreign people) out there ...another world. One day you will have to learn to speak their language. Learn everything about them. Learn how they think and to out-think them, because one day they will try to kill you.”

My grandmother told me that Tunkashila (the Creator Grandfather, the Wakan Tanka, The Great Holy One, Mita Onje Ate) made many people, all different, but He was the same Creator of everything - of the sky people, water people, earth people, fire people, the four-legged and the two-legged.

Soon, her journey ended, and as she lay in this box asleep, I knew that she would return. One day, as I played outside she came walking up to me and said, “You will be Wenya Chante Wishak Uha (Woman Who Has a Strong Heart).”

Later, my earth mother and father came to my grandfather’s to take me up north to my earth mother’s reservation, Standing Rock. At that time, the King Alfred Act allowed the government to take Indian children –to teach them to assimilate into the outside culture. I was one of those taken to the boarding school. Out of 500 Indian children, about 50 of us had been raised by our grandparents. I knew we were different. We were not allowed to go back home during the summer vacations. The instructors were harder on us, and we were stubborn. We refused to speak English. We were beaten if we were caught speaking our own language -the only one we knew. In all the confusion, my Ena’s words came back to me about having to learn the Washecu’s language. I feel now that the Creator allowed all of this to happen because He was shaping and molding me to be a strong spirit. I remained in boarding school for nine years.

At 16, my earth father arranged my marriage to a man who took care of me. I was given material things, yet wanted more than this material world. But, where was I going to learn the truth? I believed in the Red Road and tried to stay on it by doing good, being generous, praying and asking the Creator for guidance and protection. I always prayed for a helper even though I was married and was blessed with bringing four beautiful spirits into this world.

One day I was so miserable, I knew I had to seek the truth of my existence. My marriage was failing and I decided to leave it and begin my journey. Sadly, my children chose to stay with their father. He was good to them, in spite of his treatment of me.

My journey took me to big cities where I saw how the outside world was corrupt, and the values and morals were nothing I wanted to be a part of. Yet where was I to go? I met other Indians who were lost. I continued to pray for guidance as I moved across the continent. I moved far from Indians -away from the purification lodge, the ceremonies, the pow-wows, the traditions, the culture. I felt alone, but knew the Creator was always with me.

One day in Atlanta, Georgia, I heard about a minister who was going to speak at the Omni Theater. I decided to go. I stood in line to buy my ticket and everyone was looking at me. I guess I did look different with beaded earrings, a scarf draped over my head and a long dress. While I waited in line, I heard an intercom turn on and this man started to sing.

My spirit let me know instantly that this was a prayer, and I became reverent and listened. I didn’t understand the language, yet it seemed familiar, this song. I felt something like lightening coming up from mother earth, all the way up my back and out the top of my head. I wanted to cry. My spirit was feeling happy. It was being fed by this song, this prayer. I later learned this was the Adhan, or call to prayer, and it was followed by Al-Fatiha, which is the Opening of Holy Qur’an.

I asked about the man speaking, and was told he was a Muslim. I wanted to learn more about Muslims and this powerful prayer because I did not experience these feelings except in the purification lodge, at the sun-dance and ceremonies. Over time, my excitement grew as I finally found some believers and began my introduction into Islam. All praise is due to Allah!

Now, when asked if I am Muslim, and knowing it means one who submits to Allah, the Creator, I feel pride when I say, “Yes.” I can bear witness that there is no God but Allah, the All-in-All, and that Islam is the way of life, and Prophet Muhammad is God’s Messenger [peace be upon him]. I knew that the Creator would send his true religion meant for us on our journey in this life to all people, just as I had thought the White Buffalo Calf Woman came bringing the peace pipe through which our prayers were sent. The way of life, the Red Road, is the Straight Path to my people. Then there is the Holy Qur’an, the Book of truth, as we Lakotas didn’t have a book, except inside us.

Now, I can be among brothers and sisters who believe as I do. And, most of the time I feel at home among my Muslim brothers and sisters, as I look most of the time through spiritual eyes. But, sometimes our cultures and traditions get in the way, though I have left behind those traditions that did not apply to Islam and the Red Road. Other traditions are so similar to Islam that I’d like to share them to understand and be understood. We also pray towards the East. The tipi doors were faced to the east and when log houses were built the doors faced the east. We believe in one God; in respecting yourself by the way you dress and carry yourself. We pray daily, especially the early morning prayer at the dawn of the new day; and before doing so, we wash the body, keeping it purified.

As Allah puts Muslims in my path, I know I have a family. Yet, there are times this world and its control through traditions can still have a hold on us, my brothers and sisters, and can dictate to even those of us who say we are on the Straight Path. It can cause us to look at each other on the physical, material plane.

I recently read an Islamic journal, and my spirit urged me to record my experiences as a Muslim. If it will be the will of the Creator, I hope other Native American Muslims will also share with the whole Muslim community as I feel it is important to help our brothers and sisters gain an awareness of Native Americans.

However, I would prefer to be simply called a Muslim, not a Native American Muslim, as when we separate ourselves in this physical world, it also separates us in other worlds.

June 17, 2013
“The Red Road,” My Journey to Islam

 

All Praise is due to Allah, the Creator who guided me to Islam, the Way of Life, the Red Road, the Straight Path.

I, Lois Stands-Ali, began my journey on the Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota, in the Oglala community. When I was born, my earth parents placed me in the care of my grandmother, a mid-wife and a spiritual woman. We attended many ceremonies and pow-wows, and I witnessed other spirits begin their journeys. Taught as a child by my grandmother to respect Mitakoyasin, all of my relations, and to know that I was Lakota -the people. I did not understand all of the many words of wisdom that she shared. Yet, throughout the years, all that she told me has helped in every way one could imagine.

One thing that really stuck in my head was when she told me: “There are Washecus (foreign people) out there ...another world. One day you will have to learn to speak their language. Learn everything about them. Learn how they think and to out-think them, because one day they will try to kill you.”

My grandmother told me that Tunkashila (the Creator Grandfather, the Wakan Tanka, The Great Holy One, Mita Onje Ate) made many people, all different, but He was the same Creator of everything - of the sky people, water people, earth people, fire people, the four-legged and the two-legged.

Soon, her journey ended, and as she lay in this box asleep, I knew that she would return. One day, as I played outside she came walking up to me and said, “You will be Wenya Chante Wishak Uha (Woman Who Has a Strong Heart).”

Later, my earth mother and father came to my grandfather’s to take me up north to my earth mother’s reservation, Standing Rock. At that time, the King Alfred Act allowed the government to take Indian children –to teach them to assimilate into the outside culture. I was one of those taken to the boarding school. Out of 500 Indian children, about 50 of us had been raised by our grandparents. I knew we were different. We were not allowed to go back home during the summer vacations. The instructors were harder on us, and we were stubborn. We refused to speak English. We were beaten if we were caught speaking our own language -the only one we knew. In all the confusion, my Ena’s words came back to me about having to learn the Washecu’s language. I feel now that the Creator allowed all of this to happen because He was shaping and molding me to be a strong spirit. I remained in boarding school for nine years.

At 16, my earth father arranged my marriage to a man who took care of me. I was given material things, yet wanted more than this material world. But, where was I going to learn the truth? I believed in the Red Road and tried to stay on it by doing good, being generous, praying and asking the Creator for guidance and protection. I always prayed for a helper even though I was married and was blessed with bringing four beautiful spirits into this world.

One day I was so miserable, I knew I had to seek the truth of my existence. My marriage was failing and I decided to leave it and begin my journey. Sadly, my children chose to stay with their father. He was good to them, in spite of his treatment of me.

My journey took me to big cities where I saw how the outside world was corrupt, and the values and morals were nothing I wanted to be a part of. Yet where was I to go? I met other Indians who were lost. I continued to pray for guidance as I moved across the continent. I moved far from Indians -away from the purification lodge, the ceremonies, the pow-wows, the traditions, the culture. I felt alone, but knew the Creator was always with me.

One day in Atlanta, Georgia, I heard about a minister who was going to speak at the Omni Theater. I decided to go. I stood in line to buy my ticket and everyone was looking at me. I guess I did look different with beaded earrings, a scarf draped over my head and a long dress. While I waited in line, I heard an intercom turn on and this man started to sing.

My spirit let me know instantly that this was a prayer, and I became reverent and listened. I didn’t understand the language, yet it seemed familiar, this song. I felt something like lightening coming up from mother earth, all the way up my back and out the top of my head. I wanted to cry. My spirit was feeling happy. It was being fed by this song, this prayer. I later learned this was the Adhan, or call to prayer, and it was followed by Al-Fatiha, which is the Opening of Holy Qur’an.

I asked about the man speaking, and was told he was a Muslim. I wanted to learn more about Muslims and this powerful prayer because I did not experience these feelings except in the purification lodge, at the sun-dance and ceremonies. Over time, my excitement grew as I finally found some believers and began my introduction into Islam. All praise is due to Allah!

Now, when asked if I am Muslim, and knowing it means one who submits to Allah, the Creator, I feel pride when I say, “Yes.” I can bear witness that there is no God but Allah, the All-in-All, and that Islam is the way of life, and Prophet Muhammad is God’s Messenger [peace be upon him]. I knew that the Creator would send his true religion meant for us on our journey in this life to all people, just as I had thought the White Buffalo Calf Woman came bringing the peace pipe through which our prayers were sent. The way of life, the Red Road, is the Straight Path to my people. Then there is the Holy Qur’an, the Book of truth, as we Lakotas didn’t have a book, except inside us.

Now, I can be among brothers and sisters who believe as I do. And, most of the time I feel at home among my Muslim brothers and sisters, as I look most of the time through spiritual eyes. But, sometimes our cultures and traditions get in the way, though I have left behind those traditions that did not apply to Islam and the Red Road. Other traditions are so similar to Islam that I’d like to share them to understand and be understood. We also pray towards the East. The tipi doors were faced to the east and when log houses were built the doors faced the east. We believe in one God; in respecting yourself by the way you dress and carry yourself. We pray daily, especially the early morning prayer at the dawn of the new day; and before doing so, we wash the body, keeping it purified.

As Allah puts Muslims in my path, I know I have a family. Yet, there are times this world and its control through traditions can still have a hold on us, my brothers and sisters, and can dictate to even those of us who say we are on the Straight Path. It can cause us to look at each other on the physical, material plane.

I recently read an Islamic journal, and my spirit urged me to record my experiences as a Muslim. If it will be the will of the Creator, I hope other Native American Muslims will also share with the whole Muslim community as I feel it is important to help our brothers and sisters gain an awareness of Native Americans.

However, I would prefer to be simply called a Muslim, not a Native American Muslim, as when we separate ourselves in this physical world, it also separates us in other worlds.

June 17, 2013
“The Red Road,” My Journey to Islam

 

All Praise is due to Allah, the Creator who guided me to Islam, the Way of Life, the Red Road, the Straight Path.

I, Lois Stands-Ali, began my journey on the Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota, in the Oglala community. When I was born, my earth parents placed me in the care of my grandmother, a mid-wife and a spiritual woman. We attended many ceremonies and pow-wows, and I witnessed other spirits begin their journeys. Taught as a child by my grandmother to respect Mitakoyasin, all of my relations, and to know that I was Lakota -the people. I did not understand all of the many words of wisdom that she shared. Yet, throughout the years, all that she told me has helped in every way one could imagine.

One thing that really stuck in my head was when she told me: “There are Washecus (foreign people) out there ...another world. One day you will have to learn to speak their language. Learn everything about them. Learn how they think and to out-think them, because one day they will try to kill you.”

My grandmother told me that Tunkashila (the Creator Grandfather, the Wakan Tanka, The Great Holy One, Mita Onje Ate) made many people, all different, but He was the same Creator of everything - of the sky people, water people, earth people, fire people, the four-legged and the two-legged.

Soon, her journey ended, and as she lay in this box asleep, I knew that she would return. One day, as I played outside she came walking up to me and said, “You will be Wenya Chante Wishak Uha (Woman Who Has a Strong Heart).”

Later, my earth mother and father came to my grandfather’s to take me up north to my earth mother’s reservation, Standing Rock. At that time, the King Alfred Act allowed the government to take Indian children –to teach them to assimilate into the outside culture. I was one of those taken to the boarding school. Out of 500 Indian children, about 50 of us had been raised by our grandparents. I knew we were different. We were not allowed to go back home during the summer vacations. The instructors were harder on us, and we were stubborn. We refused to speak English. We were beaten if we were caught speaking our own language -the only one we knew. In all the confusion, my Ena’s words came back to me about having to learn the Washecu’s language. I feel now that the Creator allowed all of this to happen because He was shaping and molding me to be a strong spirit. I remained in boarding school for nine years.

At 16, my earth father arranged my marriage to a man who took care of me. I was given material things, yet wanted more than this material world. But, where was I going to learn the truth? I believed in the Red Road and tried to stay on it by doing good, being generous, praying and asking the Creator for guidance and protection. I always prayed for a helper even though I was married and was blessed with bringing four beautiful spirits into this world.

One day I was so miserable, I knew I had to seek the truth of my existence. My marriage was failing and I decided to leave it and begin my journey. Sadly, my children chose to stay with their father. He was good to them, in spite of his treatment of me.

My journey took me to big cities where I saw how the outside world was corrupt, and the values and morals were nothing I wanted to be a part of. Yet where was I to go? I met other Indians who were lost. I continued to pray for guidance as I moved across the continent. I moved far from Indians -away from the purification lodge, the ceremonies, the pow-wows, the traditions, the culture. I felt alone, but knew the Creator was always with me.

One day in Atlanta, Georgia, I heard about a minister who was going to speak at the Omni Theater. I decided to go. I stood in line to buy my ticket and everyone was looking at me. I guess I did look different with beaded earrings, a scarf draped over my head and a long dress. While I waited in line, I heard an intercom turn on and this man started to sing.

My spirit let me know instantly that this was a prayer, and I became reverent and listened. I didn’t understand the language, yet it seemed familiar, this song. I felt something like lightening coming up from mother earth, all the way up my back and out the top of my head. I wanted to cry. My spirit was feeling happy. It was being fed by this song, this prayer. I later learned this was the Adhan, or call to prayer, and it was followed by Al-Fatiha, which is the Opening of Holy Qur’an.

I asked about the man speaking, and was told he was a Muslim. I wanted to learn more about Muslims and this powerful prayer because I did not experience these feelings except in the purification lodge, at the sun-dance and ceremonies. Over time, my excitement grew as I finally found some believers and began my introduction into Islam. All praise is due to Allah!

Now, when asked if I am Muslim, and knowing it means one who submits to Allah, the Creator, I feel pride when I say, “Yes.” I can bear witness that there is no God but Allah, the All-in-All, and that Islam is the way of life, and Prophet Muhammad is God’s Messenger [peace be upon him]. I knew that the Creator would send his true religion meant for us on our journey in this life to all people, just as I had thought the White Buffalo Calf Woman came bringing the peace pipe through which our prayers were sent. The way of life, the Red Road, is the Straight Path to my people. Then there is the Holy Qur’an, the Book of truth, as we Lakotas didn’t have a book, except inside us.

Now, I can be among brothers and sisters who believe as I do. And, most of the time I feel at home among my Muslim brothers and sisters, as I look most of the time through spiritual eyes. But, sometimes our cultures and traditions get in the way, though I have left behind those traditions that did not apply to Islam and the Red Road. Other traditions are so similar to Islam that I’d like to share them to understand and be understood. We also pray towards the East. The tipi doors were faced to the east and when log houses were built the doors faced the east. We believe in one God; in respecting yourself by the way you dress and carry yourself. We pray daily, especially the early morning prayer at the dawn of the new day; and before doing so, we wash the body, keeping it purified.

As Allah puts Muslims in my path, I know I have a family. Yet, there are times this world and its control through traditions can still have a hold on us, my brothers and sisters, and can dictate to even those of us who say we are on the Straight Path. It can cause us to look at each other on the physical, material plane.

I recently read an Islamic journal, and my spirit urged me to record my experiences as a Muslim. If it will be the will of the Creator, I hope other Native American Muslims will also share with the whole Muslim community as I feel it is important to help our brothers and sisters gain an awareness of Native Americans.

However, I would prefer to be simply called a Muslim, not a Native American Muslim, as when we separate ourselves in this physical world, it also separates us in other worlds.

June 16, 2013
No Minarets and Domes on New US Mosques

 

New mosques continue to be built in the United States (US), however, the architectural style appears to be changing. The all too familiar minarets, domes and arches, which historically represent Islamic architecture around the world, are being replaced by less intricately designed modern buildings. Some argue that the change is necessary to meet the needs of an increasing and diverse American Muslim community. They see the change as being more welcoming to a younger generation of Muslim Americans and catering to the needs of the elderly when services are provided for their benefit.

Architect Maryam Eskandari, former associate director of the American Institute of Architects, is touring the US with a photo exhibition that shows the changes in American mosques from traditional to modern designs. She says Islamic architecture has long been subject to personal interpretation and set in a cultural and historical context. The new designs are influenced by current ideas and sentiments in America which could be seen as representing the level of maturity of Americans towards tolerance for Islam.  In other words, they reflect where America is today. They signify a debate taking place in the US about Muslim identity and about American identity.

Nasser Rabbat, director of the Aga Khan Program for Islamic Architecture at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology expressed the view that "the dome and minaret are the most easily recognizable visual markers of a mosque”. He added, however, that they are not compulsory architectural features. Mr. Rabbat also added that Muslims should not eliminate traditional design features of the mosque because of fear. While he believes that there is a place for new designs, the purpose should be good, modern design and not design intended to conceal Islamic identity.

June 16, 2013
No Minarets and Domes on New US Mosques

 

New mosques continue to be built in the United States (US), however, the architectural style appears to be changing. The all too familiar minarets, domes and arches, which historically represent Islamic architecture around the world, are being replaced by less intricately designed modern buildings. Some argue that the change is necessary to meet the needs of an increasing and diverse American Muslim community. They see the change as being more welcoming to a younger generation of Muslim Americans and catering to the needs of the elderly when services are provided for their benefit.

Architect Maryam Eskandari, former associate director of the American Institute of Architects, is touring the US with a photo exhibition that shows the changes in American mosques from traditional to modern designs. She says Islamic architecture has long been subject to personal interpretation and set in a cultural and historical context. The new designs are influenced by current ideas and sentiments in America which could be seen as representing the level of maturity of Americans towards tolerance for Islam.  In other words, they reflect where America is today. They signify a debate taking place in the US about Muslim identity and about American identity.

Nasser Rabbat, director of the Aga Khan Program for Islamic Architecture at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology expressed the view that "the dome and minaret are the most easily recognizable visual markers of a mosque”. He added, however, that they are not compulsory architectural features. Mr. Rabbat also added that Muslims should not eliminate traditional design features of the mosque because of fear. While he believes that there is a place for new designs, the purpose should be good, modern design and not design intended to conceal Islamic identity.

June 16, 2013
No Minarets and Domes on New US Mosques

 

New mosques continue to be built in the United States (US), however, the architectural style appears to be changing. The all too familiar minarets, domes and arches, which historically represent Islamic architecture around the world, are being replaced by less intricately designed modern buildings. Some argue that the change is necessary to meet the needs of an increasing and diverse American Muslim community. They see the change as being more welcoming to a younger generation of Muslim Americans and catering to the needs of the elderly when services are provided for their benefit.

Architect Maryam Eskandari, former associate director of the American Institute of Architects, is touring the US with a photo exhibition that shows the changes in American mosques from traditional to modern designs. She says Islamic architecture has long been subject to personal interpretation and set in a cultural and historical context. The new designs are influenced by current ideas and sentiments in America which could be seen as representing the level of maturity of Americans towards tolerance for Islam.  In other words, they reflect where America is today. They signify a debate taking place in the US about Muslim identity and about American identity.

Nasser Rabbat, director of the Aga Khan Program for Islamic Architecture at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology expressed the view that "the dome and minaret are the most easily recognizable visual markers of a mosque”. He added, however, that they are not compulsory architectural features. Mr. Rabbat also added that Muslims should not eliminate traditional design features of the mosque because of fear. While he believes that there is a place for new designs, the purpose should be good, modern design and not design intended to conceal Islamic identity.

June 16, 2013
No Minarets and Domes on New US Mosques

 

New mosques continue to be built in the United States (US), however, the architectural style appears to be changing. The all too familiar minarets, domes and arches, which historically represent Islamic architecture around the world, are being replaced by less intricately designed modern buildings. Some argue that the change is necessary to meet the needs of an increasing and diverse American Muslim community. They see the change as being more welcoming to a younger generation of Muslim Americans and catering to the needs of the elderly when services are provided for their benefit.

Architect Maryam Eskandari, former associate director of the American Institute of Architects, is touring the US with a photo exhibition that shows the changes in American mosques from traditional to modern designs. She says Islamic architecture has long been subject to personal interpretation and set in a cultural and historical context. The new designs are influenced by current ideas and sentiments in America which could be seen as representing the level of maturity of Americans towards tolerance for Islam.  In other words, they reflect where America is today. They signify a debate taking place in the US about Muslim identity and about American identity.

Nasser Rabbat, director of the Aga Khan Program for Islamic Architecture at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology expressed the view that "the dome and minaret are the most easily recognizable visual markers of a mosque”. He added, however, that they are not compulsory architectural features. Mr. Rabbat also added that Muslims should not eliminate traditional design features of the mosque because of fear. While he believes that there is a place for new designs, the purpose should be good, modern design and not design intended to conceal Islamic identity.

June 16, 2013
Said The Messenger of Allah, Muhammad P.B.U.H

 

He who knoweth his own self, knoweth God.

· He will not enter hell who hath faith equal to a mustard seed in his heart, and he will not enter Paradise who hath a single grain of pride, equal to a mustard seed in his heart.

· Muhammad, p.b.u.h. said: “That person will not enter Paradise who hath one atom of pride in his heart.” And a man present said, “Verily, a man is fond of having good clothes and good shoes.” Muhammad p.b.u.h. said, “God is Beauty and delighteth in the beautiful; but pride is holding man in contempt.”

· God’s kindness towards His creatures is more than that of a mother towards her babe.

· Do not say that if people do good to us, we will do good to them, and if people oppress us, we will oppress them. Instead determine that if people do good to you, you will do good to them; and if they oppress you, you will not oppress them.

· No man is a true believer unless he desireth for his brother that which he desireth for himself.

· He who believeth in one God and the Hereafter, let him speak what is good or remain silent.

· Riches are not from abundance of worldly goods, but from a contented mind.

· Whoever suppresseth his anger, when he hath in his power to show it, God will give him a great reward.

· The greatest crimes are to associate another with God, to vex your father and mother, to murder your own species, to commit suicide, and to swear a lie.

· Whoso openeth unto himself the door of begging, God will open unto him the door of poverty.

· A man asked, “Are there rewards for our doing good to animals and giving them water to drink?” Muhammad, p.b.u.h. said, “Verily there are heavenly rewards for any act of kindness to a live animal.”

· The best of alms is that which the right hand giveth and the left hand knoweth not of.

· There are seven people whom God will draw under His own shadow, on the day when there will be no shadow; one of them will be a man who hath given alms and concealed it, so that his left hand knew not what his right hand did.

· The best of almsgiving is that which springeth from the heart, and is uttered by the lips to soften the wounds of the injured.

· All actions are judged by the motives prompting them.

· The most excellent Jihad [trans.:striving] is that for the conquest of the self. [i.e., the carnal self or ego]

· The exercise of religious duties will not atone for the fault of an abusive tongue.

· Keep yourselves far from envy because it eateth up and taketh away good actions, like a fire eateth up and burneth wood.

· God is gentle and loveth gentleness.

· What is Paradise? Muhammad p.b.u.h. replied “It is what the eye hath not seen, nor the ear heard, nor ever occurred to the mind of man.”

· He is not a perfect man of fortitude who hath not fallen into misfortunes; and there is no physician but the experienced.

· Every good act is charity; and verily it is a good act to meet your brother with an open countenance, and to pour water from your own water bag into his vessel.

· Guard yourselves from six things, and I am your security for Paradise. When you speak, speak the truth; perform when you promise; discharge your trust; be chaste in thought and action; and withhold your hand from striking, from taking that which is unlawful, and bad.

· Feed the hungry and visit the sick, and free the captive, if he be unjustly confined. Assist any person oppressed, whether Muslim or non-Muslim.

· Speak to men according to their mental capacities, for if you speak all things to all men, some cannot understand you, and so fall into errors. Abuse no-one, and if a man abuse thee, and lay open a vice which he knoweth in thee, then do not disclose one which thou knowest in him.

· Whoever doeth good to girls, it will be a curtain to him from hell-fire.

· Whoever hath a daughter, and doth not bury her alive, or scold her, or prefer his male children to her, may God bring him into Paradise. [Note: this refers to the practice of female infanticide which was common in those days. The Prophet Muhammad p.b.u.h. abolished this practice]

· God enjoins you to treat women well, for they are your mothers, daughters and aunts.

· Do not prevent women from coming to the mosque.

P.B.U.H. is short for “peace be upon him” which is an expression used by Muslims to indicate reverence towards the holy Prophet Muhammad.

June 15, 2013
Foods of Holy Quran and Sunnah: Honey

  Honey is the oldest sweetener known to humans. Historically, honey was seen as a symbol of contentment and prosperity, and earned the name “liquid gold”.  Ancient peoples, such as the Egyptians and Greeks, prized honey and used it in many remedies and applied it to wounds.  

Although honey is a sweetener, it is different from simple sugars in that it provides good nutritional value. This complex food made up of mostly glucose and fructose, and small amounts of sucrose; it also contains carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, enzymes and vitamins B and C. Honey also contains antioxidants, which are the parts of cells that get rid of detrimental particles of metabolic functions, such as free redicals, which can cause cancer. These antioxidants –one of which, Pinocembrin, is found only in honey- can contribute greatly to the prevention of cancers and heart diseases.

Most amazing about honey is that it does not accommodate the growth of bacteria, and will not spoil if left for a long period of time. When used to sweeten cakes and breads, it improves the shelf life and allows the baked goods to stay moister longer due to honey’s water attracting properties.

It takes the nectar of 1 ½ million flowers to make just a pint of honey, which was the cause of its expensive price and limited availability in the past. But presently, honey is readily available in most countries around the world. But while people may take advantage of its dietary use, much of its curative power is not used to the fullest extent.

Allah, Most Exalted, says in Holy Quran of the bee:  “Take your habitations in the mountains and in the trees, and in what they erect. Then, eat of all fruits, and follow the ways of your Lord made easy (for you).  There comes forth from their bellies, a drink of varying color, wherein is healing for men. Verily, in this is indeed a sign for people who think.” (Surah Nahl or The Bee: 68-69)

In this statement, “a drink of varying color wherein is healing for men”, Allah tells us directly that there are curative properties in honey, many of which have been proven in medical tests. Honey has also been used in the prophetic medicine. The Holy Rasul, peace and blessings be upon him, said “If anyone licks honey three mornings every month, he will not be afflicted with any serious trouble.”

The benefits of honey can be seen in that it is used in cold remedies, to sooth sore throats, coughs, flu, to prevent bedwetting, and as part of treatment for alcohol poisoning. The anti-inflammatory action of honey when applied topically reduces the swelling around a wound and reduces pain.

In a well known hadith, a  man  came to the Holy Messenger, peace be upon him, and said, “My brother has got loose motions. The Holy Messenger, peace be upon him, said “let him drink honey.” The man again came and said, “I made him drink (honey) but that made him worse.” The Holy Messenger, peace be upon him, said, “Allah has said the truth, and the abdomen of your brother has told a lie. Let him drink honey.” So he made him drink honey and he was cured.

From this we can clearly see that honey is a miracle mentioned in Al-Quran and a superior dietary aid.

June 15, 2013
Foods of Holy Quran and Sunnah: Honey

  Honey is the oldest sweetener known to humans. Historically, honey was seen as a symbol of contentment and prosperity, and earned the name “liquid gold”.  Ancient peoples, such as the Egyptians and Greeks, prized honey and used it in many remedies and applied it to wounds.  

Although honey is a sweetener, it is different from simple sugars in that it provides good nutritional value. This complex food made up of mostly glucose and fructose, and small amounts of sucrose; it also contains carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, enzymes and vitamins B and C. Honey also contains antioxidants, which are the parts of cells that get rid of detrimental particles of metabolic functions, such as free redicals, which can cause cancer. These antioxidants –one of which, Pinocembrin, is found only in honey- can contribute greatly to the prevention of cancers and heart diseases.

Most amazing about honey is that it does not accommodate the growth of bacteria, and will not spoil if left for a long period of time. When used to sweeten cakes and breads, it improves the shelf life and allows the baked goods to stay moister longer due to honey’s water attracting properties.

It takes the nectar of 1 ½ million flowers to make just a pint of honey, which was the cause of its expensive price and limited availability in the past. But presently, honey is readily available in most countries around the world. But while people may take advantage of its dietary use, much of its curative power is not used to the fullest extent.

Allah, Most Exalted, says in Holy Quran of the bee:  “Take your habitations in the mountains and in the trees, and in what they erect. Then, eat of all fruits, and follow the ways of your Lord made easy (for you).  There comes forth from their bellies, a drink of varying color, wherein is healing for men. Verily, in this is indeed a sign for people who think.” (Surah Nahl or The Bee: 68-69)

In this statement, “a drink of varying color wherein is healing for men”, Allah tells us directly that there are curative properties in honey, many of which have been proven in medical tests. Honey has also been used in the prophetic medicine. The Holy Rasul, peace and blessings be upon him, said “If anyone licks honey three mornings every month, he will not be afflicted with any serious trouble.”

The benefits of honey can be seen in that it is used in cold remedies, to sooth sore throats, coughs, flu, to prevent bedwetting, and as part of treatment for alcohol poisoning. The anti-inflammatory action of honey when applied topically reduces the swelling around a wound and reduces pain.

In a well known hadith, a  man  came to the Holy Messenger, peace be upon him, and said, “My brother has got loose motions. The Holy Messenger, peace be upon him, said “let him drink honey.” The man again came and said, “I made him drink (honey) but that made him worse.” The Holy Messenger, peace be upon him, said, “Allah has said the truth, and the abdomen of your brother has told a lie. Let him drink honey.” So he made him drink honey and he was cured.

From this we can clearly see that honey is a miracle mentioned in Al-Quran and a superior dietary aid.

June 15, 2013
Foods of Holy Quran and Sunnah: Honey

  Honey is the oldest sweetener known to humans. Historically, honey was seen as a symbol of contentment and prosperity, and earned the name “liquid gold”.  Ancient peoples, such as the Egyptians and Greeks, prized honey and used it in many remedies and applied it to wounds.  

Although honey is a sweetener, it is different from simple sugars in that it provides good nutritional value. This complex food made up of mostly glucose and fructose, and small amounts of sucrose; it also contains carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, enzymes and vitamins B and C. Honey also contains antioxidants, which are the parts of cells that get rid of detrimental particles of metabolic functions, such as free redicals, which can cause cancer. These antioxidants –one of which, Pinocembrin, is found only in honey- can contribute greatly to the prevention of cancers and heart diseases.

Most amazing about honey is that it does not accommodate the growth of bacteria, and will not spoil if left for a long period of time. When used to sweeten cakes and breads, it improves the shelf life and allows the baked goods to stay moister longer due to honey’s water attracting properties.

It takes the nectar of 1 ½ million flowers to make just a pint of honey, which was the cause of its expensive price and limited availability in the past. But presently, honey is readily available in most countries around the world. But while people may take advantage of its dietary use, much of its curative power is not used to the fullest extent.

Allah, Most Exalted, says in Holy Quran of the bee:  “Take your habitations in the mountains and in the trees, and in what they erect. Then, eat of all fruits, and follow the ways of your Lord made easy (for you).  There comes forth from their bellies, a drink of varying color, wherein is healing for men. Verily, in this is indeed a sign for people who think.” (Surah Nahl or The Bee: 68-69)

In this statement, “a drink of varying color wherein is healing for men”, Allah tells us directly that there are curative properties in honey, many of which have been proven in medical tests. Honey has also been used in the prophetic medicine. The Holy Rasul, peace and blessings be upon him, said “If anyone licks honey three mornings every month, he will not be afflicted with any serious trouble.”

The benefits of honey can be seen in that it is used in cold remedies, to sooth sore throats, coughs, flu, to prevent bedwetting, and as part of treatment for alcohol poisoning. The anti-inflammatory action of honey when applied topically reduces the swelling around a wound and reduces pain.

In a well known hadith, a  man  came to the Holy Messenger, peace be upon him, and said, “My brother has got loose motions. The Holy Messenger, peace be upon him, said “let him drink honey.” The man again came and said, “I made him drink (honey) but that made him worse.” The Holy Messenger, peace be upon him, said, “Allah has said the truth, and the abdomen of your brother has told a lie. Let him drink honey.” So he made him drink honey and he was cured.

From this we can clearly see that honey is a miracle mentioned in Al-Quran and a superior dietary aid.

June 15, 2013
Muslim Christian Unity Programs Expanding Churches studying ‘Jesus in the Qur’an’

“O Maryam! Indeed Allah gives you the good news of a word from Him, whose name is Masih, Isa, the son of Maryam, a man of status in this world and in the Hereafter and one of the nearest. And he shall speak to the people in the cradle as well as in the middle age, and shall be one of the righteous.” (Holy Qur’an, Chapter 3:45-46)

 

Muslims have long understood that the Holy Qur’an contains a multitude of verses concerning Jesus, son of the Chaste Mary, his miraculous birth and outstanding character. In early spring of this year, Atlanta-based Grace Fellowship Church began a study effort called “Jesus in the Quran” to introduce Christians to the English text of the Holy Qur’an by reading it alongside their Bibles.

 

These efforts, along with programs sponsored by organizations such as the United Muslim Christian Forum (UMCF), are taking bold steps to create an atmosphere of open communication and collaboration, built on a foundation of faith in the One Almighty God and His Divinely revealed books. Public Relations Director of UMCF, Muhammad Hasib Haqq, explains, “In these times, it is crucial for Muslims and Christians to come together in collaboration to stop those who advocate a clash between these two great civilizations.”

 

Outreach minister for Grace Fellowship Church, Jon Stallsmith, initiated “Jesus in the Quran”, which offers programs that address shared values between both faiths. “We want to find peace, reconciliation around a scriptural understanding of Jesus”.

 

In January 2011, the group will hold its second joint Muslim-Christian celebration of the birth of Jesus, Son of Mary, in Binghamton, New York, open to the public and welcoming speakers of various faiths.

June 15, 2013
Muslim Christian Unity Programs Expanding Churches studying ‘Jesus in the Qur’an’

“O Maryam! Indeed Allah gives you the good news of a word from Him, whose name is Masih, Isa, the son of Maryam, a man of status in this world and in the Hereafter and one of the nearest. And he shall speak to the people in the cradle as well as in the middle age, and shall be one of the righteous.” (Holy Qur’an, Chapter 3:45-46)

 

Muslims have long understood that the Holy Qur’an contains a multitude of verses concerning Jesus, son of the Chaste Mary, his miraculous birth and outstanding character. In early spring of this year, Atlanta-based Grace Fellowship Church began a study effort called “Jesus in the Quran” to introduce Christians to the English text of the Holy Qur’an by reading it alongside their Bibles.

 

These efforts, along with programs sponsored by organizations such as the United Muslim Christian Forum (UMCF), are taking bold steps to create an atmosphere of open communication and collaboration, built on a foundation of faith in the One Almighty God and His Divinely revealed books. Public Relations Director of UMCF, Muhammad Hasib Haqq, explains, “In these times, it is crucial for Muslims and Christians to come together in collaboration to stop those who advocate a clash between these two great civilizations.”

 

Outreach minister for Grace Fellowship Church, Jon Stallsmith, initiated “Jesus in the Quran”, which offers programs that address shared values between both faiths. “We want to find peace, reconciliation around a scriptural understanding of Jesus”.

 

In January 2011, the group will hold its second joint Muslim-Christian celebration of the birth of Jesus, Son of Mary, in Binghamton, New York, open to the public and welcoming speakers of various faiths.

June 15, 2013
Muslim Christian Unity Programs Expanding Churches studying ‘Jesus in the Qur’an’

“O Maryam! Indeed Allah gives you the good news of a word from Him, whose name is Masih, Isa, the son of Maryam, a man of status in this world and in the Hereafter and one of the nearest. And he shall speak to the people in the cradle as well as in the middle age, and shall be one of the righteous.” (Holy Qur’an, Chapter 3:45-46)

 

Muslims have long understood that the Holy Qur’an contains a multitude of verses concerning Jesus, son of the Chaste Mary, his miraculous birth and outstanding character. In early spring of this year, Atlanta-based Grace Fellowship Church began a study effort called “Jesus in the Quran” to introduce Christians to the English text of the Holy Qur’an by reading it alongside their Bibles.

 

These efforts, along with programs sponsored by organizations such as the United Muslim Christian Forum (UMCF), are taking bold steps to create an atmosphere of open communication and collaboration, built on a foundation of faith in the One Almighty God and His Divinely revealed books. Public Relations Director of UMCF, Muhammad Hasib Haqq, explains, “In these times, it is crucial for Muslims and Christians to come together in collaboration to stop those who advocate a clash between these two great civilizations.”

 

Outreach minister for Grace Fellowship Church, Jon Stallsmith, initiated “Jesus in the Quran”, which offers programs that address shared values between both faiths. “We want to find peace, reconciliation around a scriptural understanding of Jesus”.

 

In January 2011, the group will hold its second joint Muslim-Christian celebration of the birth of Jesus, Son of Mary, in Binghamton, New York, open to the public and welcoming speakers of various faiths.

June 14, 2013
Former U.S. Presidents Read The Quran

For former presidents, John Adams and Thomas Jefferson among them, being properly educated included owning and reading the  Holy Quran. Via Boston.com, a glimpse at the little-known long history of the Holy Quran in America:

Reports of Holy Qurans in American libraries go back at least to 1683, when an early settler of Germantown, Pa., brought a German version to these shores. Despite its foreign air, Adams’s Holy Quran had a strong New England pedigree. The first Holy Quran published in the United States, it was printed in Springfield in 1806.

 

Why would John Adams and a cluster of farmers in the Connecticut valley have bought copies of the Holy Quran in 1806? Surprisingly, there was a long tradition of New Englanders reading in the Islamic scripture. No book states the case more plainly than a single volume, tucked away deep within the citadel of Copley Square — the Boston Public Library. The book known as Adams 281.1 is a copy of the Holy Quran, from the personal collection of John Adams.

Thomas Jefferson, especially, had a familiarity with Islam that borders on the astonishing. Not only did he study the Islamic culture, but Jefferson even tried to learn Arabic. Like Adams, he owned a Holy Quran, a 1764 English edition that he bought while studying law as a young man in Williamsburg, Virginia.

 

Just five years ago, that Holy Quran became the center of a controversy, when the first Muslim ever elected to Congress, Keith Ellison, a Democrat from Minnesota, asked if he could place his hand on it while taking his oath of office — a request that elicited tremendous screeches from the talk radio extremists.

June 14, 2013
Former U.S. Presidents Read The Quran

For former presidents, John Adams and Thomas Jefferson among them, being properly educated included owning and reading the  Holy Quran. Via Boston.com, a glimpse at the little-known long history of the Holy Quran in America:

Reports of Holy Qurans in American libraries go back at least to 1683, when an early settler of Germantown, Pa., brought a German version to these shores. Despite its foreign air, Adams’s Holy Quran had a strong New England pedigree. The first Holy Quran published in the United States, it was printed in Springfield in 1806.

 

Why would John Adams and a cluster of farmers in the Connecticut valley have bought copies of the Holy Quran in 1806? Surprisingly, there was a long tradition of New Englanders reading in the Islamic scripture. No book states the case more plainly than a single volume, tucked away deep within the citadel of Copley Square — the Boston Public Library. The book known as Adams 281.1 is a copy of the Holy Quran, from the personal collection of John Adams.

Thomas Jefferson, especially, had a familiarity with Islam that borders on the astonishing. Not only did he study the Islamic culture, but Jefferson even tried to learn Arabic. Like Adams, he owned a Holy Quran, a 1764 English edition that he bought while studying law as a young man in Williamsburg, Virginia.

 

Just five years ago, that Holy Quran became the center of a controversy, when the first Muslim ever elected to Congress, Keith Ellison, a Democrat from Minnesota, asked if he could place his hand on it while taking his oath of office — a request that elicited tremendous screeches from the talk radio extremists.

June 14, 2013
Miracles of Islam---Why are People Not Astounded by the Personal Name of Almighty God?

The miracles of our Lord are all around us in every facet of our daily lives.  The sun, moon, stars, trees, and the very essence of the human being are but a few examples.  It takes, however, a very special person to truly appreciate these things as miracles because for the lay person they are the usual parts of each day.  On the other hand, people don’t respond in similar fashion to clear cut miraculous events.  We are amazed and enthralled whenever we see planes landing on water, or sky divers surviving falls from planes without parachutes, or any of the other amazing things that we see that are out of the ordinary.

For Muslims and Christians, when we see amazing miracles of a Divine nature, people all over the world get excited, and people travel far and wide to see them.  Such an event has occurred in recent months and there has been an ‘underwhelming’ response to view this wonder.  In a small upstate New York village, Almighty God has allowed His Personal Name to illuminate the wall of a place of worship.  It is “the greatest miracle sent in the history of mankind”, but the response to it has been lackluster at best.

I started to ponder this as I perused an article online about a miracle in which the silhouette of a person praying appears at the entrance of a holy building every afternoon.  The article goes on to say how people from around the world have flocked to see this wonder.   That being the case, I contemplated on what could be the reason that streams of people are not flocking to upstate New York?  Why does it seem that people are unmoved, like someone who just witnessed a cloud for the millionth time?  Why do they not realize that the significance of this superb event is that Almighty God does hear our prayers and answers them?   I think I know.

First, let me say a little more about the miracle.  On August 2, 2010, in the early morning hours, a group of young men had awakened to do late night prayer and one young man was awestruck to find that Almighty God’s Personal Name appeared on the wall.  It appeared on the oak paneling as though it was bubbling off the wall and it was emanating an intense light.  A few days after it appeared, while some of the young men were extolling Almighty God,  to their surprise the Name expanded.  It has been shining ever since it appeared.  At the time this magnificent event was unfolding I was in the clinic upstairs in the masjid fast asleep.  A few of my friends excitedly came upstairs and tried to explain what had occurred,  but their most enthusiastic expressions could not capture the feeling that overcame me when I saw this breathtaking miracle for myself.  As the news spread, a few people trickled in, but not the mass that I was expecting.  At first, I couldn’t fathom why; but as I ascertained from some people why they were absent, the reasons became somewhat clear. In the first place, many people were not aware.  So for those who are aware, you have the responsibility to spread the message to others.  Now, if you didn’t appreciate the magnificence yourself, it may be hard to portray the wonder to someone else.  This is understandable, but in that case, you have to revisit it without any expectations or prejudgments (i.e. you must visit it empty of preconceived notions) and I believe you will truly witness the power of this miraculous event.

The next thing is that the Personal Name of Almighty God appeared in Arabic, and automatically, people believe that it only then applies to Muslims.  This could not be further from the truth.  Although it is in Arabic, Almighty God is still the One God and as such, all those who believe in Him owe it to themselves to witness His Name- no matter what the language.  Again, you will feel the effects, regardless of your religious denomination.  A somewhat similar miracle appeared many years ago in the small community of York, South Carolina.  Since then, a shrine was erected and many people of various faiths have enjoyed the healing effects of this holy place.  The event that occurred in New York is of a greater magnitude than this, so you can imagine the power of this marvel of Almighty God.

I think the biggest reason is that people are looking so hard for tangible evidence that Almighty God exists.  In ancient times, people were amazed at the stars, the moon, and other aspects of nature, and this strengthened their belief in the Almighty Creator.  As man developed what is believed to be a better understanding of the world about him, we have man being percieved to be Divine, and thus lost our faith in our Divine Creator.  This has led to mankind not being impressed with nature anymore as evidence of the Almighty God.  Now, the thing about this is that if you trace our knowledge of creation back to its root cause you will see that ultimately the origin is Almighty God, anyway.  That being said, miracles don’t have the same ‘wow’ factor that they used to have, so it has to be something truly amazing to even cause people to do a double-take.

Now, some people think , ‘how can they say that this is the biggest and greatest miracle ever shown to mankind’?  Well, the answer will help people, in general, when viewing miracles.  Whenever these things occur, do not let your eyes fool you, but instead follow your heart.  What this means is - try to avoid looking at the miracle and attempting to be amazed, but look at the effect that the miracle has on everything that surrounds it.  So, don’t look at how it makes you feel, but look for the effect it has on you. Whatever your religious affiliations and whether you believe in miracles or not, I want you to stop reading and reflect on the thing you love most in the world.  Now imagine that if we compiled that love for all of humanity, our total love would not amount to a speck of sand in the desert of the love that Almighty God has shown us by allowing His Personal Signature to—without interruption—emanate from this oak wall for all to see.  Don’t take my word for it. Put what I say to the litmus test.  With a clear heart, sit and internally ask Almighy God that if the claim is true that this is His personal signature, for Him to truly, and without a doubt, give you the inspiration and inclination to go see it.  I believe that you will see that your heart will draw you toward it, but your mind will tell you all the reasons not to go.  So remember to always follow your heart in this regard for it will never steer you wrong, but if you think too much your mind will always veer you wrong.  As always - Only by God, the Almighty and All Glorious, can we be healed.

June 13, 2013
"Greatest Miracle" Still Shining in American Muslim Village

Since the blessed eve of the 2nd August 2010, Allah, The One Almighty Creator continues to show His personal name, Tajjaliyat Azam, in bright and clear luminous Arabic letters without the assistance of any outside medium's contributing to His personal signature. Prior to the miraculous appearance, which cannot be explained other than by realizing that only Allah could have caused this, some 200 participants in the summer program were almost constantly, throughout the day and night, calling on the Almighty Creator through numerous acts of prayer, remembrance and worship in the masjid now known as Masjid Baitullah Tajalliyat Azzam. 

The significance of this is that the biggest and greatest miracle shown to mankind has happened in North America, a Divine Act which has not graced even the holy sanctuary in Makka-tul-Mukkaramah, the Kaaba. This shining manifestation, still present in Masjid Baitullah Tajalliyat Azzam, was the Almighty's response to the hundreds of worshipers engaged in most intense supplication to Almighty God and is a sign of its acceptance. This karamah (miracle) was preceded by the appearance of the holy name of the Almighty Creator Allah, and rainbows of light in the residence in Holy Islamberg which has since become Holy Khanqah Gilaniyya - Sufi Lodge # 2 - one of the holiest locations in the world. 

The spiritual irridations emanating from this miraculous manifestation – the name of the Sustainer and Fosterer of all, appearing as if etched in light in a three-dimensional form - have inspired the hearts of the young and old of all persuasions who have converged upon this most honored house of prayer and remembrance, with the intense desire to worship and know Him with deepest sincerity, being overcome with tears of love, gratitude, and awe; producing utterances of praise and adoration from hearts overflowing with the certainty of His Sovereignty and Majesty.

Our Almighty Creator has chosen, in eras past, to manifest His Grandeur and Might to those of his servants and worshippers as He so selects. Such was the manifestation of His Power, which was cast upon the mountain of the Holy Messenger Moses, peace be upon him; and that mountain was rent asunder; similarly, the manifestation of His Power in the voice heard by Moses apparently coming from a burning bush. Rarely have such miraculous appearances occurred in our modern era; however, hundreds more worshippers have been blessed and honored to witness similar manifestations of Divine Light in Holy Islamville, South Carolina, U.S.

 

Upon the completion of classes in Islamic Law, Arabic and recitation of Holy Qur’an, and the study of its meanings, by ladies attending a camp held in 1996, a faxed message containing blessed du’as for the 15th of Sha’baan was followed by the appearance of the name of Almighty Allah most High, and His Holy Last Messenger Muhammad, peace and blessing be upon him, glowing and vibrating in rainbow colors. Since that time, an abundance of similar manifestations of Divine Light –shimmering and luminous have appeared continuously in the Holy Khanqa Gilaniyya there. Thus, in numerous ways, all miraculous in kind, the Most Merciful Creator grants His highest creation signs to quicken, enamor, and inspire the hearts of human beings, to follow His Guidance, to remain obedient to His Laws, and to be steadfast in His sincere worship and service.

Most significantly, this continuous miraculous manifestation of the Almighty's Name, Allah, and rainbows over America are a strong warning and reminder to the wrongdoers, and glad tidings to the believers.  Do not take it lightly, nor ignore it because it is sign of Allah Almighty God, the Creator, God of Abraham, Joseph, David, Solomon, Jesus, son of chaste Mary, and the Holy Last Messenger (peace be upon them all).  Such a sign has not been shown before to anyone. He let his light appear as a fire in the bush, for sometime, for Moses. When Moses took 70 people up on Mount Toor/Sinai, the tajalliy of Almighty's personal Name, when it fell on it, caused the nearby mountain to turn to dust and all 70 people died on the spot. In this time, Allah has raised the competency of people to behold His Name without fainting or dying. It appears in sublime tranquil light of His personal Name, but it resists any move to capture it on camera/video because people must come to pay homeage and glorify on their knees, be they Muslim, Christian or Jew. 

This greatest miracle of all times has appeared as a support and a karaamah of our Imam of the American Muslims who is also know as Abu-Father of the American Muslims. It is glad tidings to the most oppressed people in the world, the American Muslims who had been dehumanized, deculturalized and demonized by the settlers who abducted them, ongoing for 300 hundred years. Seventy percent of the ten million slaves abducted were Muslims. The same story of the people of pharaoh is being repeated here; they too were poor and oppressed in the land. Despite sign after sign they were still oppressed, until the oppressors were drowned. Non Muslim Americans do not realize that tornadoes after tornados, floods, fires, mudslides, horrible incurable diseases, cancer, AIDS, etc occur because of the destruction of the moral fibre of society, and these things come as part of the wrath of Almighty Allah. Our Imam who has been sent with signs, along with rainbows that accompany him has warned American people to stop worshipping Satan, and come back to belief in One Almighty God as mentioned in the Old Testament, and follow the Ten Commandments. "You are warned; if you keep on allowing and tolerating homosexuality and worshipping Satan, your fate won't be different from the people  of Sodom and Gomorrah. Come back to Allah Almighty One God, seek his forgiveness and stop killing innocent people, committing crimes of genocide against people in other parts of the world because these things can come back to you according to the immutable law of Allah.

June 13, 2013
"Greatest Miracle" Still Shining in American Muslim Village

Since the blessed eve of the 2nd August 2010, Allah, The One Almighty Creator continues to show His personal name, Tajjaliyat Azam, in bright and clear luminous Arabic letters without the assistance of any outside medium's contributing to His personal signature. Prior to the miraculous appearance, which cannot be explained other than by realizing that only Allah could have caused this, some 200 participants in the summer program were almost constantly, throughout the day and night, calling on the Almighty Creator through numerous acts of prayer, remembrance and worship in the masjid now known as Masjid Baitullah Tajalliyat Azzam. 

The significance of this is that the biggest and greatest miracle shown to mankind has happened in North America, a Divine Act which has not graced even the holy sanctuary in Makka-tul-Mukkaramah, the Kaaba. This shining manifestation, still present in Masjid Baitullah Tajalliyat Azzam, was the Almighty's response to the hundreds of worshipers engaged in most intense supplication to Almighty God and is a sign of its acceptance. This karamah (miracle) was preceded by the appearance of the holy name of the Almighty Creator Allah, and rainbows of light in the residence in Holy Islamberg which has since become Holy Khanqah Gilaniyya - Sufi Lodge # 2 - one of the holiest locations in the world. 

The spiritual irridations emanating from this miraculous manifestation – the name of the Sustainer and Fosterer of all, appearing as if etched in light in a three-dimensional form - have inspired the hearts of the young and old of all persuasions who have converged upon this most honored house of prayer and remembrance, with the intense desire to worship and know Him with deepest sincerity, being overcome with tears of love, gratitude, and awe; producing utterances of praise and adoration from hearts overflowing with the certainty of His Sovereignty and Majesty.

Our Almighty Creator has chosen, in eras past, to manifest His Grandeur and Might to those of his servants and worshippers as He so selects. Such was the manifestation of His Power, which was cast upon the mountain of the Holy Messenger Moses, peace be upon him; and that mountain was rent asunder; similarly, the manifestation of His Power in the voice heard by Moses apparently coming from a burning bush. Rarely have such miraculous appearances occurred in our modern era; however, hundreds more worshippers have been blessed and honored to witness similar manifestations of Divine Light in Holy Islamville, South Carolina, U.S.

 

Upon the completion of classes in Islamic Law, Arabic and recitation of Holy Qur’an, and the study of its meanings, by ladies attending a camp held in 1996, a faxed message containing blessed du’as for the 15th of Sha’baan was followed by the appearance of the name of Almighty Allah most High, and His Holy Last Messenger Muhammad, peace and blessing be upon him, glowing and vibrating in rainbow colors. Since that time, an abundance of similar manifestations of Divine Light –shimmering and luminous have appeared continuously in the Holy Khanqa Gilaniyya there. Thus, in numerous ways, all miraculous in kind, the Most Merciful Creator grants His highest creation signs to quicken, enamor, and inspire the hearts of human beings, to follow His Guidance, to remain obedient to His Laws, and to be steadfast in His sincere worship and service.

Most significantly, this continuous miraculous manifestation of the Almighty's Name, Allah, and rainbows over America are a strong warning and reminder to the wrongdoers, and glad tidings to the believers.  Do not take it lightly, nor ignore it because it is sign of Allah Almighty God, the Creator, God of Abraham, Joseph, David, Solomon, Jesus, son of chaste Mary, and the Holy Last Messenger (peace be upon them all).  Such a sign has not been shown before to anyone. He let his light appear as a fire in the bush, for sometime, for Moses. When Moses took 70 people up on Mount Toor/Sinai, the tajalliy of Almighty's personal Name, when it fell on it, caused the nearby mountain to turn to dust and all 70 people died on the spot. In this time, Allah has raised the competency of people to behold His Name without fainting or dying. It appears in sublime tranquil light of His personal Name, but it resists any move to capture it on camera/video because people must come to pay homeage and glorify on their knees, be they Muslim, Christian or Jew. 

This greatest miracle of all times has appeared as a support and a karaamah of our Imam of the American Muslims who is also know as Abu-Father of the American Muslims. It is glad tidings to the most oppressed people in the world, the American Muslims who had been dehumanized, deculturalized and demonized by the settlers who abducted them, ongoing for 300 hundred years. Seventy percent of the ten million slaves abducted were Muslims. The same story of the people of pharaoh is being repeated here; they too were poor and oppressed in the land. Despite sign after sign they were still oppressed, until the oppressors were drowned. Non Muslim Americans do not realize that tornadoes after tornados, floods, fires, mudslides, horrible incurable diseases, cancer, AIDS, etc occur because of the destruction of the moral fibre of society, and these things come as part of the wrath of Almighty Allah. Our Imam who has been sent with signs, along with rainbows that accompany him has warned American people to stop worshipping Satan, and come back to belief in One Almighty God as mentioned in the Old Testament, and follow the Ten Commandments. "You are warned; if you keep on allowing and tolerating homosexuality and worshipping Satan, your fate won't be different from the people  of Sodom and Gomorrah. Come back to Allah Almighty One God, seek his forgiveness and stop killing innocent people, committing crimes of genocide against people in other parts of the world because these things can come back to you according to the immutable law of Allah.

June 12, 2013
Patriarchs' Ibrahimi Mosque Sacred to Muslims, Christians and Jews

 

 

By G. N. Abdullah

Islamic Post Staff Writer

The American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) says it is “a matter of serious concern” that the Obama Administration rebuked the recent announcement of settlement expansion as “a deeply negative signal.” AIPAC is calling “on the Administration to take immediate steps to defuse the tension with the Jewish State,” after an ill-timed announcement made by the Israeli government during the height of US Vice President Joe Biden’s Middle East tour that settlements in East Jerusalem would increase by 1600 persons.

But perhaps more troubling is a lesser known declaration made by Israeli Prime Minister Benyamin Netanyahu that the Tomb of the Patriarchs is being made into a national heritage site by his administration, according to Aletho News and agencies. There is a fear that the rehabilitation project scheduled for the mosque of the father of three religions may become reserved for one religion only.

The site, also known as the Ibrahimi Mosque, is believed to contain the grave of the Holy Messenger Abraham -who is the father of Islam, Christianity and Judaism. Located in Hebron, the Ibrahimi Mosque also lies within Palestinian territory, in the midst of uncontested land.

The Holy Messenger Joseph, or Yusuf, in Arabic, is also believed to be buried in the Tomb of the Patriarchs. The Biblical and Qur’anic patriarchs after which the tomb is named, however, are Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, as well as three matriarchs: Sarah, Rebecca, and Leah.

These holy sites -and others such as the resting places of the Holy Messenger Job, or Ayyoub, and the Holy Messenger ‘Imran, the father of Mary, mother of the Holy Messenger Jesus (peace be upon them all), in Oman; the Holy Messengers Jonah, or Yunus, and his father Amittai, whose name is Matta in Arabic, as well as the Holy Messenger Lot -also in the Hebron area; Ezekiel or Zul Kifl in Iraq; Aaron, or Harun, in Jordon; the Holy Messenger Seth, or Sheeth, in Lebanon; and the father of mankind, the Holy Messenger Adam and his wife, our mother, Eve are said to be buried in Saudi Arabia - have all been maintained for almost 1000 years, with respect and love, by Muslims.

The Ibrahimi Mosque has been in existence since 1206. In the 12th century, after capturing almost every other Crusader city, the world renowned Muslim general, Salahhuddin Ayyoubi, advanced on Jerusalem. The city surrendered, Salahhuddin, whose name is commonly spelled Saladin, invited the Jewish people to return to the city. In Hebron, Christians were also allowed to worship freely at the Ibrahimi Mosque.

But in the modern age, Israeli forces began restricting Palestinian visits to the Mosque as far back as May of last year, as reported by Ma’an News.

Dr Elias Akleh, a Palestinian author living in the United States, considers the announcement of Mr Netanyahu’s decision regarding the Tomb of the Patriarchs -like the declaration regarding more settlements during Vice President Biden’s visit- untimely. The decision to make the Ibrahimi Mosque an Israeli national heritage site “coincided with the sixteenth anniversary of the Ibrahimi Mosque massacre perpetrated by the Zionist Israeli terrorist Baruch Goldstein, who murdered in cold blood 29 Moslems while kneeling in prayer at the Ibrahimi Mosque,” writes Dr Akleh in his article, “Netanyahu Re-igniting Religious War in the Holy Land.” Dr Akleh continues: “After the six-days-war in 1967 the Israeli government took control of the Ibrahimi Mosque, and provided protected and free entry to extremist Zionist Jews to pray while limiting access to Moslems’ prayers, who have to go through electronic gates and body search[s] before entering.”

Israeli journalist, Avi Shavit, condemns recent acts of Prime Minister Netanyahu not only as ill-timed, but “insane” in Haaretz: “Our need for the United States is unprecedented at this critical juncture; any national interest should be subservient to the supreme interest of strengthening this alliance. But now of all times, at the most sensitive moment, Israel chooses to act insanely… The continuation of the occupation makes Israel disfigure itself and its image; with its own hands it undermines the legitimacy of Zionism.”

In the wake of more uncertainty surrounding the not quite fledgling peace process, it was not Muslims or Jews, but Christians, who convened from all over the world in Bethlehem to discuss a way forward during a seminar entitled “Christ at the Checkpoint,” at Bethlehem Bible College on March 12-17. The point of the week long meeting was not only stated as gaining understanding of “Holy Scripture as related to the Palestinian context, but “to discuss the theological importance of Peace and Justice.”

June 12, 2013
Patriarchs' Ibrahimi Mosque Sacred to Muslims, Christians and Jews

 

 

By G. N. Abdullah

Islamic Post Staff Writer

The American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) says it is “a matter of serious concern” that the Obama Administration rebuked the recent announcement of settlement expansion as “a deeply negative signal.” AIPAC is calling “on the Administration to take immediate steps to defuse the tension with the Jewish State,” after an ill-timed announcement made by the Israeli government during the height of US Vice President Joe Biden’s Middle East tour that settlements in East Jerusalem would increase by 1600 persons.

But perhaps more troubling is a lesser known declaration made by Israeli Prime Minister Benyamin Netanyahu that the Tomb of the Patriarchs is being made into a national heritage site by his administration, according to Aletho News and agencies. There is a fear that the rehabilitation project scheduled for the mosque of the father of three religions may become reserved for one religion only.

The site, also known as the Ibrahimi Mosque, is believed to contain the grave of the Holy Messenger Abraham -who is the father of Islam, Christianity and Judaism. Located in Hebron, the Ibrahimi Mosque also lies within Palestinian territory, in the midst of uncontested land.

The Holy Messenger Joseph, or Yusuf, in Arabic, is also believed to be buried in the Tomb of the Patriarchs. The Biblical and Qur’anic patriarchs after which the tomb is named, however, are Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, as well as three matriarchs: Sarah, Rebecca, and Leah.

These holy sites -and others such as the resting places of the Holy Messenger Job, or Ayyoub, and the Holy Messenger ‘Imran, the father of Mary, mother of the Holy Messenger Jesus (peace be upon them all), in Oman; the Holy Messengers Jonah, or Yunus, and his father Amittai, whose name is Matta in Arabic, as well as the Holy Messenger Lot -also in the Hebron area; Ezekiel or Zul Kifl in Iraq; Aaron, or Harun, in Jordon; the Holy Messenger Seth, or Sheeth, in Lebanon; and the father of mankind, the Holy Messenger Adam and his wife, our mother, Eve are said to be buried in Saudi Arabia - have all been maintained for almost 1000 years, with respect and love, by Muslims.

The Ibrahimi Mosque has been in existence since 1206. In the 12th century, after capturing almost every other Crusader city, the world renowned Muslim general, Salahhuddin Ayyoubi, advanced on Jerusalem. The city surrendered, Salahhuddin, whose name is commonly spelled Saladin, invited the Jewish people to return to the city. In Hebron, Christians were also allowed to worship freely at the Ibrahimi Mosque.

But in the modern age, Israeli forces began restricting Palestinian visits to the Mosque as far back as May of last year, as reported by Ma’an News.

Dr Elias Akleh, a Palestinian author living in the United States, considers the announcement of Mr Netanyahu’s decision regarding the Tomb of the Patriarchs -like the declaration regarding more settlements during Vice President Biden’s visit- untimely. The decision to make the Ibrahimi Mosque an Israeli national heritage site “coincided with the sixteenth anniversary of the Ibrahimi Mosque massacre perpetrated by the Zionist Israeli terrorist Baruch Goldstein, who murdered in cold blood 29 Moslems while kneeling in prayer at the Ibrahimi Mosque,” writes Dr Akleh in his article, “Netanyahu Re-igniting Religious War in the Holy Land.” Dr Akleh continues: “After the six-days-war in 1967 the Israeli government took control of the Ibrahimi Mosque, and provided protected and free entry to extremist Zionist Jews to pray while limiting access to Moslems’ prayers, who have to go through electronic gates and body search[s] before entering.”

Israeli journalist, Avi Shavit, condemns recent acts of Prime Minister Netanyahu not only as ill-timed, but “insane” in Haaretz: “Our need for the United States is unprecedented at this critical juncture; any national interest should be subservient to the supreme interest of strengthening this alliance. But now of all times, at the most sensitive moment, Israel chooses to act insanely… The continuation of the occupation makes Israel disfigure itself and its image; with its own hands it undermines the legitimacy of Zionism.”

In the wake of more uncertainty surrounding the not quite fledgling peace process, it was not Muslims or Jews, but Christians, who convened from all over the world in Bethlehem to discuss a way forward during a seminar entitled “Christ at the Checkpoint,” at Bethlehem Bible College on March 12-17. The point of the week long meeting was not only stated as gaining understanding of “Holy Scripture as related to the Palestinian context, but “to discuss the theological importance of Peace and Justice.”