Fugitive From Justice!

After escaping from an arrest warrant granted by a London court for being accused of committing war crimes, Tzipi Livni, the Israeli former Foreign Minister, held a press conference to declare that she is "proud" of all her decisions in the Israeli war against Palestinians during Christmas last year!

It's important to record that the Israeli war was condemned by several states and international organizations. Nothing was out of the attack; hospitals, infrastructure, roads, water stations, schools, mosques and UN centers were all attacked under the claim that leaders of Palestinian resistance exist there! The result was killing 1330 victims including; 418 child killed, 108 woman killed, 88 elderly killed and 14 of medical crews killed, plus 5450 wounded with a percent of 50% children and women, and 90% of the wounds are caused by the internationally banned White Phosphorus. The reasonable description for what happened in 22 days is "Genocide".

The encouraging act of the British court that resurrected a glimmer of hope in achieving international justice is threatened now by the shameful declarations of UK's Prime Minister G. Brown of welcoming Livni in England, and the declarations of British Ministers of looking urgently at reforming the law to avoid future warrant against Israeli officials!

It's a serious threat against human rights and international justice. When policy interferes the work of justice, then all war criminals will escape the just penalty.

British government is put now in an embarrassing situation. It's required to choose one of two choices; the political relations with a government accused of committing war crimes, or chasing war criminals giving them the penalty they deserve. Which will win; Policy or Justice?

Israeli .. Peace?

An Israeli settler squeezing a Palestinian young man twice, under the protection of Israeli army men and ambulance men!

Should we trust all the claims of Israeli peace when this is the Israeli people?

Farewell Sermon Of Prophet Muhammad

In the same day, 1420 ago, Prophet Muhammad leaded hundreds of thousands of Muslims in the performance of Hajj (Muslim Pilgrimage) in Mecca. It was a very touching scene. The Prophet was witnessing his followers, the fruit of his continuous call along 23 years for the path of truth in front of his eyes. The last days of the Prophet were approaching. He (PBUH) has fulfilled the task that was put upon him. It was the time of the last will and testament. Prophet Muhammad climbed the Mount of Mercy in Arafat outside of Mecca face to face with the silent hundreds of thousands crowd, and said;

"O People, lend me an attentive ear, for I know not whether after this year, I shall ever be amongst you again. Therefore listen to what I am saying to you very carefully and take these words to those who could not be present here today.

O People, just as you regard this month, this day, this city as Sacred, so regard the life and property of every Muslim as a sacred trust. Return the goods entrusted to you to their rightful owners. Hurt no one so that no one may hurt you. Remember that you will indeed meet your Lord, and that He will indeed reckon your deeds. Allah has forbidden you to take usury (interest), therefore all interest obligation shall henceforth be waived. Your capital, however, is yours to keep. You will neither inflict nor suffer any inequity. Allah has Judged that there shall be no interest and that all the interest due to Abbas ibn 'Abd'al Muttalib (Prophet's uncle) shall henceforth be waived...

Beware of Satan, for the safety of your religion. He has lost all hope that he will ever be able to lead you astray in big things, so beware of following him in small things.

O People, it is true that you have certain rights with regard to your women, but they also have rights over you. Remember that you have taken them as your wives only under Allah's trust and with His permission. If they abide by your right then to them belongs the right to be fed and clothed in kindness. Do treat your women well and be kind to them for they are your partners and committed helpers. And it is your right that they do not make friends with any one of whom you do not approve, as well as never to be unchaste.

O People, listen to me in earnest, worship Allah, say your five daily prayers (Salah), fast during the month of Ramadan, and give your wealth in Zakat. Perform Hajj if you can afford to.

All mankind is from Adam and Eve, an Arab has no superiority over a non-Arab nor a non-Arab has any superiority over an Arab; also a white has no superiority over black nor a black has any superiority over white except by piety and good action. Learn that every Muslim is a brother to every Muslim and that the Muslims constitute one brotherhood. Nothing shall be legitimate to a Muslim which belongs to a fellow Muslim unless it was given freely and willingly. Do not, therefore, do injustice to yourselves.

Remember, one day you will appear before Allah and answer your deeds. So beware, do not stray from the path of righteousness after I am gone.

O People, no prophet or apostle will come after me and no new faith will be born. Reason well, therefore, O People, and understand words which I convey to you. I leave behind me two things, the QURAN and my example, the SUNNAH and if you follow these you will never go astray.

All those who listen to me shall pass on my words to others and those to others again; and may the last ones understand my words better than those who listen to me directly. Be my witness, O Allah, that I have conveyed your message to your people".

If we just followed these great principles of Humanity, Justice, Equity, and Mercy, how would the world be?

MUSLIMS & NON-MUSLIMS | What Did Prophet Muhammad Tell Muslims To Do?

How should Muslims treat non-Muslims? Are they required to deal kindly and justly, or hate them? Are Muslims required to smile in their faces, or stab them in the back?

I believe, many non-Muslims are eager to hear an answer to such questions from the mouth of Islamic resources. Particularly under the big wave of Islamophobia in the Western world, and the number of violent incidents made allegedly in the name of Islam. So, it's important to talk about the basis of Islamic perspective about non-Muslims. Hatred or Love? Marginalizing or Merging? Fighting or Cooperation? Separation or Coexistence?

The best way to understand Islamic perspective about the relation between Muslims and non-Muslims is to follow what Prophet Muhammad said and practiced. This way we can focus on the theoretical principles set for Muslims to treat non-Muslims, and in the same way see a practical application of these principles.

It's important at first to clarify that everything that Prophet Muhammad say or do, is considered to be a legislation for all Muslims. If Qur'an is the first source of Shari'a (Islamic legislation), then sayings and deeds of the Prophet are the second source. Qur'an says; "Ye have indeed in the Messenger of Allah a beautiful pattern (of conduct) for any one whose hope is in Allah and the Final Day, and who engages much in the Praise of Allah." 33th chapter: 21th verse. Subsequently, when the Prophet do something or say anything, all Muslims are required to do the same as he did and apply what he said. All Muslims consider Prophet Muhammad as the best example for them..

When the message of Islam started to spread in its early beginning, the people of Mecca started to murder new Muslims, torture them, besiege and boycott them, and expropriate their properties. This sufferance lasted for 13 years. The atmosphere in Mecca has not become suitable for Muslims to live, so they had to immigrate to another place away from the reach of Meccans. The choice was Medina, 450 KM away from Mecca. Medina was a place where Jews settled long time before. The first thing Prophet Muhammad did after he migrated to Medina was to sign a treaty, including all tribes of Medina beside Jewish tribes. The main clauses of that treaty were;

*The Jews will profess their religion, and the Muslims theirs.

*If attacked by a third party, each shall come to the assistance of the other.

*Neither shall commit sins to the prejudice of the other.

*The wronged party shall be aided.

*Each shall contribute to defending Madinah, in case of a foreign attack, in its respective area.

*This treaty shall not hinder either party from seeking lawful revenge.

There are major values seen in these clauses such as; Freedom of religion, Merging Jews in community instead of marginalizing them, Setting the basics of justice and equity, Supporting the right regardless of faith. Prophet Muhammad practiced these values 14 centuries ago!

In Qur'an, 60th Chapter, 7th & 8th verse say;"It may be that Allah will grant love (and friendship) between you and those whom ye (now) hold as enemies. For Allah has power (over all things); And Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful. * Allah forbids you not, with regard to those who fight you not for (your) Faith nor drive you out of your homes, from dealing kindly and justly with them: for Allah loveth those who are just." In addition, Prophet Muhammad -God bless him- said about Dhimmis (non-Muslims living under Islamic protection); "He who hurts a Dhimmi hurts me, and he who hurts me annoys Allah." Reported by Al-Tabarani. The two verses and the Hadith (Saying of the Prophet) show very clearly the main frame of how a Muslim should treat non-Muslims.

If we started by the Hadith we can realize that it's a big sin and a forbidden thing to hurt non-Muslims. What is a "hurt"? This include everything that would annoy any human; mistreat, transgression and oppression. We aren't talking here about bombing civilian places and random shooting. If Prophet Muhammad considered hurting, just the hurt at any level, as hurting for himself and subsequently to God (Which devout Muslim would dare to do something that hurt the Prophet and annoy Allah?), then, higher levels of hurt like attacking and killing them is an unforgivable crime.

The two verses maintain the peace that must be achieved between Muslims and non-Muslims who don't aim at fighting and driving Muslims out of their homes. Peace for peace, that's it. These verses include all non-Muslims; Christians, Jews, and even the infidels. "Kindly and Justly", a very clear order. Smiling, Giving a present, Exchanging friendly visits, Sharing the food, Volunteering in social projects, Selling & Buying, Medical treatment, Sharing in social occasions, Helping the needy, Giving the poor, .. there is so much other to say, it's simply; "Dealing Kindly and Justly"!

Another short incident that Prophet Muhammad did, but, I believe, it has much to tell Muslims about treating non-Muslims. One day a funeral procession passed by and the Prophet (PBUH) stoop up. The people objected. "But it is the funeral of a Jews." and he responded, "Is he not a human being?"

I asked myself "What is the message out of that?", "What did Prophet Muhammad want to tell his companions?". I think the message is clear. Prophet Muhammad, the Prophet of Islam is telling Muslims that when we treat non-Muslims kindly, it's not about cheating them, but it's all about respecting them .. just because they are human beings. It's about respecting their souls and their dignity, whatever they believe in.

In another occasion, a delegation of Christian Yemenis arrived to Medina to meet Prophet Muhammad. The Prophet welcomed them in the mosque of Medina. When the time of their prayer came, they prayed at the mosque, and the Prophet allowed them! Prophet Muhammad is not just telling Muslims that we should give non-Muslims the freedom of practicing their faith, but in addition, we might share them our worshiping places, our mosques, to practice their worshiping. So open-minded, so civilized!

When the Prophet was migrating from Mecca to Medina secretly, the people of Mecca was chasing him to assassinate him, they even sent 10 strong young men with sharp swords to his house to kill him, but God saved him (PBUH). The situation was so risky, any mistake would lead to the death of the Prophet, the messenger of God, and the receiver of the revelation. When the Prophet needed a guide to show him the way to Medina through the desert without being seen by the Meccans, he choose Abdullah Ibn Urayket, one of the Meccans, a good guide, and .. a non-Muslim!

Thinking of it, the Prophet of Islam trusted a non-Muslim in that critical situation. He would easily reveal the secret to the Meccans, and win the 100 camels prize that Meccans made for anyone who tell them about the place of the Prophet. But the Prophet didn't looked at him that way, instead he looked at how good he was as a guide who knows the secret roads to Medina and how honest and trusted he was so not to reveal his secret. The Prophet trusted him i.e. trusted a non-Muslim! This tell all Muslims very clearly that working with a non-Muslim, is no thing bad.

One of the most important Hadith (Sayings of the Prophet) about the security of the non-Muslims' lives is the following. The Prophet of Islam said; "Whoever kills a person whom we have a treaty will not even come close enough to Paradise to smell its scent, and its scent can be found at a distance of forty years travel." Reported by Bukhari

No thing would be more clear. All those who bomb themselves in civil places thinking that they are dying as "martyrs" who will go to paradise, all those who kill randomly by the name of Islam thinking that they are practicing the noble Jihad, and all those who terrorize the safe non-Muslims, all of them must hear that saying of the Prophet. The Prophet is telling them that they will not even approach to paradise after their death.

An application of that Hadith was made in the life of the Prophet. It has been recorded in more than one source that one of the Muslims killed a man from the People of the Covenant, and the case was brought before the Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him), who said; "I am the one most obliged to fulfill his covenant" and ordered the murderer to be executed. A Muslim was executed because he killed one non-Muslim! That's Shari'a!

These were few examples of how Prophet Muhammad, the Prophet of Islam, treated non-Muslims. In fact, that's what are we, Muslims, required to be with non-Muslims, those who live with us in the same place, and share us the same planet. We're required to love them not to hate them, to make peace with them not to terrorize them, to coexist with them not to kill them. That's what my religion, Islam, tell me to do.

Why Islam?

A young American Muslim, talking about Islamic religion..

Quotes from the video;

"I think Islam is the most misunderstood religion in the world, not just by non-Muslims, but by Muslims as well."

"And unfortunately their actions and behaviors reflect their lake of understanding. And finally you have people who twist the verses of Qur'an. The in result is a lot confused people and a lot of confusion about what Islam really teaches."

"Prove to me that this book is perfect, just like its creator, and then I'll follow it. Otherwise if the book has even one error, it proves this has been edited or written by men."

"I became Muslim before 9-11, before all this propaganda. If you watched TV long enough, you'd believe this religion is a religion of fanatics. With actions that are not based on reason or rationality."

"Islam teaches you to think, and reflect. To observe the world around you."

"Have you ever tried memorizing a book cover to cover?"

"And the Qur'an challenges men to write a book like it if he's in doubt that this book is actually from the Creator, to prove it's a book cannot be written by a human being."

"What Islam really teaches? What Muslims really believe in? Well, first of, delete everything you've heard in the Media, because Muslims are not nonsense. And all these people who try to spread hatred by copying&pasting texts out of context, those people have no idea what thy're talking about. I'll tell you what we Muslims really believe in."

"What is the meaning of the word "Muslim"? He's the one who submits to God."

"And not even Muslims have a free ticket to paradise. Each person will be judged for their intentions and their actions."

"Now, all the stuff I've been talking to you about maybe some different of what you've seen or heard about Muslims. Maybe as because of the actions of some Muslims out there. Some who are just Muslims by name, representing Islam, and if you compared their actions to what Islam really teaches, you'll notice that they have nothing to do with each other."

"Thanks to God, Allah showed me Islam before He showed me Muslims."

"Five to eight Million Muslim live here in the United States. If Islam really preaches violence, then ask yourself "Where is the violence?" "

"So all the "kill all of the infidels" stuff is nonsense, because if they were true, how it was used in Christians who lived generations after generations for 1400 years in the middle east, .. and they still live in the middle east. Think about it!"

Climate Change .. An Islamic perspective

Today is 15th of October. It's not just a normal day, but it's the day when more than 7,000 blogs are going to unite their efforts to talk about only one subject .. Climate Change. It's Blog Action Day.

As a religious blog, I must talk about the subject as a religious blog. I'll do all my best to reveal the perspective of Islam about protecting surrounding environment..

Reading the 41th verse of the 30th Chapter in Qur'an we can notice that Qur'an is paying our attention to the essential subject of Environmental Pollution being caused by the hands of human themselves..

"Mischief has appeared on land and sea because of (the meed) that the hands of men have earned, that ((Allah)) may give them a taste of some of their deeds: in order that they may turn back (from Evil)."

In another verse, we can see an obvious confirmation that God created nature in a perfect balance among all its factors, that we must keep that balance..

"And the earth We have spread out (like a carpet); set thereon mountains firm and immovable; and produced therein all kinds of things in due balance." 15:19

When we follow the sayings of prophet Muhammad we can find out all his invitations encouraging all members of Islamic community to spread the trees, reclaim the desert lands..

Allah's Apostle said, "There is none amongst the Muslims who plants a tree or sows seeds, and then a bird, or a person or an animal eats from it, but is regarded as a charitable gift for him." Sahih Bukhari

The Prophet said, "He who cultivates land that does not belong to anybody is more rightful (to own it)." Sahih Bukhari

On the other side, we can also find out when we follow the verses of Qur'an and sayings of the prophet the continuous confirmation to keep the resources of nature and to use them in a balanced way away from any extravagance..

In verses 26 and 27 in the 17th chapter we can find that Qur'an is confirming that we should keep our resources, and not to waste them..

".. But squander not (your wealth) in the manner of a spendthrift. * Verily spendthrifts are brothers of the Evil Ones; and the Evil One is to his Lord (himself) ungrateful." 17:26, 27

In chapter 6, verse 141 we can find the verse paying our attention to the nature, ending with an inhibition to waste the products of nature..

"It is He Who produceth gardens, with trellises and without, and dates, and tilth with produce of all kinds, and olives and pomegranates, similar (in kind) and different (in variety): eat of their fruit in their season, but render the dues that are proper on the day that the harvest is gathered. But waste not by excess: for Allah loveth not the wasters." 6:141

In another verse we can see a direct inhibition to mischief on earth that has been reformed..

"Your Guardian-Lord is Allah, Who created the heavens and the earth in six days, and is firmly established on the throne (of authority): He draweth the night as a veil o'er the day, each seeking the other in rapid succession: He created the sun, the moon, and the stars, (all) governed by laws under His command. Is it not His to create and to govern? Blessed be Allah, the Cherisher and Sustainer of the worlds! * .. * Do no mischief on the earth, after it hath been set in order, but call on Him with fear and longing (in your hearts): for the Mercy of Allah is (always) near to those who do good." 7: 54, 56

It's recorded too in the books of Sunnah, that the prophet inhibited extravagance in using water even when on the side of a river.

Islamic perspective of protecting environment depends on the following points;

a) Respecting Nature.

b) Keeping The Natural Resources From Wasting And Misuse.

c) Increasing The Amount Of Trees.

d) Increasing The Suitable Lands For Agriculture Through Encouraging Reclaiming Dead Lands.

If governments of the world followed that Islamic protocol, the world will be a better and safer place.

Questions About Women In Islam (Hijab)

Why are Muslim women wearing a head scarf?

According to Islamic Sharia, there is a dress code for both men and women which serves the purpose of protecting their dignity and modesty and giving them respect. Both of them should not wear cloths that accentuate the shape of the body in such a way as to attract the attention of the opposite sex. Therefore clothing should not cling closely to the body, nor should it be transparent. As hair and hairstyle of a woman is an important part of her looks and may also add to her attractiveness, women avoid displaying this area by covering their heads. According to a saying by prophet Muhammad, nothing of a woman should be publicly visible except her face and her hands. Her intentions, personality and presence are best ascertained, in fact, from these areas of the body.

These rules are applicable only in the presence of non-kin men whom the woman in question could marry in theory. Within the family circle and in the company of some of her kinsfolk a woman may appear without covering her head. These kinship relationships are mentioned in detail in Qur'an, Chapter 24, Verse 31. At an older age a woman may discard the head-cover partially. However, as she also sets an example for the younger generation, it is better for her to continue to cover herself in accordance with the Islamic dress code. "Such elderly women as are past the prospect of marriage,- there is no blame on them if they lay aside their (outer) garments, provided they make not a wanton display of their beauty: but it is best for them to be modest: .." 24:60

Muslim girls start to adhere to the above Islamic dress code when they begin to develop a female shape (usually at the onset of puberty).

What about the Nikab?

There are two levels of Muslim women dress; the first is the Hijab, which refers to covering all the body, excluding the face and the hands. The second level is covering all the body, including the face and or without the hands. The four main Fiqh schools consider only the Hijab as the religious duty on Muslim women, the Nikab according to these schools is just a higher rank or a favor, but not a religious duty. Only few other non-main schools consider the Nikab as a religious duty. So, according to the major trend in Sharia law, only covering the head except the face and the hands, is the religious duty. But covering the face is not a religious duty.

Does the head scarf obstruct the Muslim woman from being an active member in her society?

No, at all. There have been across Islamic history great examples of successful Muslim women wearing the head scarf. The wife of the prophet, Aisha was known as a great scholar and narrator of prophet's life. The greatest fellows of the prophet (Sahaba) were consulting her after his death in the (Islamic Law) Fiqh issues. Head scarf did not restrict Muslim women to be scholars, poets, professors, doctors, nurses, TV interviewers, artists and scientists in all fields; Physics, Biology, Engineering, Crystallography, Zoology, etc. Hijab don't restrict Muslim woman from her given right according to Sharia to educate and work.

Is the head scarf an intruder product of Islamic culture?

Of course not. If we looked at three images put side by side, the first is of The Virgin Mary, the second is of mother Tresa, the third is of any Muslim woman. What would be the common thing between the three of them?

It's the scarf of the head. The three of Virgin Mary, mother Tresa and a Muslim woman are covering their heads. This can tell us that the head scarf is not related to some culture, but it's related to keeping dignity and modesty of the woman. We never claimed that head scarf of the virgin Mary or mother Tresa was an obstacle stone in their progress and success path. We never thought that the head scarf is an scarf over their minds. Neither we thought that their head scarf is an oppression to these great examples of purity and charity.

Muslims & Christians .. "A Common Word"

At Georgetown university in Washington, a wonderful experience of cultural talk is going on. A conference among senior Muslim scholars including the Grand Mufti of Egypt, Dr. Ali Gomaa, and Amr Khaled, the famous Muslim preacher who have wide fame among Muslim youth, and senior Christian scholars. Political personalities are attending the conference from among them are Tony Blair, Professor John Esposito and Anwar Ibrahim. This two-day conference will take the "Common Word" initiative to the next stage by focusing on global issues and initiatives for change. Global political and religious leaders, scholars, media, and community representatives will discuss and develop concrete proposals to advance global peace and security between Muslim and Western societies.

This bright experience started 3 years ago, when Pope Benedict XVI offered a speech offending Muslims around the world. An action that was faced by a wise reaction from 38 Islamic authorities and scholars from around the world, representing all denominations and schools of thought, joined together to deliver an answer to the Pope in the spirit of open intellectual exchange and mutual understanding. The number expanded a year later to be 138 Muslim scholars, clerics and intellectuals coming together to declare the common ground between Christianity and Islam. All major Muslim countries were represented in the message that is addressed to all Churches and indeed all Christians all over the world. The uniqueness of this initiative is that it depends on the teachings of the two great prophets, Muhammad and Jesus (Peace Be Upon Both of Them).

In a related event at Johns Hopkins University organized by US Institute of Peace, Dr. Ali

Gomaa will discuss the challenge of moderation in Islam. Dr. Gomaa has been a regular critic of violence being practiced in the name of Islam, and has written extensively on spirituality, prevention of violence, human rights, women's equality and peacemaking. Dr. Gomaa has a wide fame among Muslims and particularly in Egypt.

Following is the Summary of the introduction to the initiative..

Muslims and Christians together make up well over half of the world's population. Without peace and justice between these two religious communities, there can be no meaningful peace in the world. The future of the world depends on peace between Muslims and Christians.

The basis for this peace and understanding already exists. It is part of the very foundational principles of both faiths: love of the One God, and love of the neighbour. These principles are found over and over again in the sacred texts of Islam and Christianity. The Unity of God, the necessity of love for Him, and the necessity of love of the neighbour is thus the common ground between Islam and Christianity. The following are only a few examples:

Of God's Unity, God says in the Holy Qur'an: "Say: He is God, the One! / God, the Self-Sufficient Besought of all!"(Al-Ikhlas, 112:1-2). Of the necessity of love for God, God says in the Holy Qur'an: "So invoke the Name of thy Lord and devote thyself to Him with a complete devotion"(Al-Muzzammil, 73:8). Of the necessity of love for the neighbour, the Prophet Muhammad said: "None of you has faith until you love for your neighbour what you love for yourself."

In the New Testament, Jesus Christ said: 'Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is One. / And you shall love the Lord

your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.' This is the first commandment. / And the second, like it, is this: 'You shall love your neighbour as yourself.' There is no other commandment greater than these." (Mark 12:29-31)

In the Holy Qur'an, God Most High enjoins Muslims to issue the following call to Christians (and Jews—the People of the Scripture):

"Say: O People of the Scripture! Come to a common word between us and you: that we shall worship none but God, and that we shall ascribe no partner unto Him, and that none of us shall take others for lords beside God. And if they turn away, then say: Bear witness that we are they who have surrendered (unto Him)." (Aal 'Imran 3:64)

The words: "we shall ascribe no partner unto Him" relate to the Unity of God, and the words:"worship none but God", relate to being totally devoted to God. Hence they all relate to the First and Greatest Commandment. According to one of the oldest and most authoritative commentaries on the Holy Qur'an the words: "that none of us shall take others for lords beside God", mean 'that none of us should obey the other in disobedience to what God has commanded'. This relates to the Second Commandment because justice and freedom of religion are a crucial part of love of the neighbor.

Thus in obedience to the Holy Qur'an, we as Muslims invite Christians to come together with us on the basis of what is common to us, which is also what is most essential to our faith and practice: the Two Commandments of love.

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The full introduction is available on the Official Website of A Common Word

Questions About Women In Islam (Marriage)

Is a Muslim woman allowed to choose her husband herself?

Islam gives woman the right to choose her own husband. Without her consent no marriage can take place; and should thus take place, such marriage is invalid. Narrated Abu Huraira: Prophet Muhammad said, "A matron should not be given in marriage except after consulting her; and a virgin should not be given in marriage except after her permission." The people asked, "O Allah's Apostle! How can we know her permission (Because a virgin feels shy)?" He said, "Her silence (indicates her permission)." Sahih Bukhari

How are we to understand the permission for polygamy in Islam?

Technically, Islam allows men to marry four women; however, there are certain conditions to be met. This is best understood from the following verse in Qur'an: "And if you have reason to fear that you might not act equitably towards orphans; then marry from among [other] women such as are lawful to you -- [even] two, three, or four; but if you have reason to fear that you might not be able to treat them with equal fairness, then [only] one -- or [from among] those whom you righfully possess." (Chapter of Women, Verse 3)

The requirement of justice and identical treatment is therefor a condition closely tied up with polygamy. This, however, largely depends upon the personality of the man and the woman. It is possible for a man to grant a widow or a divorcee honourable maintenance by marrying her as a second wife. Moreover, from a woman's point of view a polygamous marriage, in which each wife has equal rights, is a choice preferable to that of a mistress who has no rights.

Islam did not outlaw polygamy, as did many other peoples and religious communities; rather, it regulated and restricted it. It is neither required nor encouraged, but simply permitted and did not outlaw. The only passage in the Qur'an (4:3) that explicitly addresses polygamy and restricts its practice, in terms of the number of wives permitted and the requirement of justice between them, was revealed after the Battle of Uhud, in which dozens of Muslims were martyred, leaving behind widows and orphans. This seems to indicate that the intent of its continued permissibility , at least in part, is to deal with individual and collective contingencies that may arise from time to time (e.g, imbalances between the number of males and females, created by war). This provides a moral, practical and humane solution to the problems of widows and orphans, who would otherwise surely be more vulnerable in the absence of a husband.

Does a woman have an option to face polygamy?

Absolutely, a prospective first wife may include in her marital contract a condition that her prospective husband shall practice monogamy. If this condition is mutually accepted, it becomes binding on the husband. Should he later violate this condition, his first wife will be entitled to seek divorce with all the financial rights connected with it. If such a condition was not included in the marital contract, and if the husband marries a second wife, the first wife may seek khul' (divestiture).

Is a Muslim man allowed to beat his wife?

This subject is burdened with a lot of prejudice. This question arise from the verse in the Qur'an which reads as follows: ".. As to those women on whose part ye fear disloyalty and ill-conduct, admonish them (first), (Next), refuse to share their beds, (And last) beat them (lightly); but if they return to obedience, seek not against them Means (of annoyance): For Allah is Most High, great (above you all)." (Women Chapter, Verse 34). This verse makes it clear that the husband is required to apply three steps in any case: Admonition, Separation in bed, and only thirdly Beating. This means that beating in the heat of the moment is specifically forbidden. In the second place, according to the Muslim scholars, "beating" has more of a symbolic connotation rather than the meaning of physical injury or hurt. Prophet Muhammad did express quite clearly his misgivings about beating a woman by saying: "Is it really possible for you to beat your wife as if she were a servant and then go to her at night?" He himself never beat a woman and he is the best example for Muslims.

What did prophet Muhammad said about treating women as wives?

In his "farewell pilgrimage" address, he said in his famous "Farewell Sermon", that is really appreciated by all Muslims; "O People! It is true that you have certain rights in regard to your women, but they also have rights over you. Remember that you have taken them as your wives, only under Allah's trust and with His permission. If they abide by your right then to them belongs the right to be fed and clothed in kindness. Do treat you women well and be kind to them, for they are your partners and committed helpers. And it is your right that they do not make friends with anyone of whom you do not approve, as well as never to be unchaste."

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Sources:

-WOMAN IN ISLAM, by Discover Islam Center, Kingdom of Bahrain.

-GENDER EQUITY IN ISLAM (BASIC PRINCIPLES), by Jamal Badawi, Ph.D., American Trust Publications

Jews .. Enemies or Friends?

When some ignorants call Muslims as "Haters of Jews", and that Islam is allegedly inviting its followers to hate and "kill" Jews, we can find in America a very special image of coexistence between Muslims and Jews refuting all these false claims..

[Place: Reston, Virginia state]

[Time: In Ramadan month]

When all Muslims worship God and make charity, and all mosques are filled up by the praisers of God. When there weren't enough space in mosques, Muslims resorted to a Jewish synagogue renting its social hall to praise Allah!

Torah copies beside Zakat collecting boxes, and Jewish symbols beside the Muslim prayers, and "Allahu Akbar" beside the verses of the Torah. It's a remarkable image of cultural understanding and cooexisetence that must be encouraged not fought against by the enemies of peace.

Commenting on this event, a member of Al-Azhar foundation welcomed praying in the Jewish synagogues, confirming that Sharia rules allow praying in all places whether it's a Christian church or a Jewish synagogue.

Muhammad Majed, Imam of the mosque, says; "The cooperation between the mosque and the Jewish synagogues clearly reveals the nature of the relation between Muslims and non-Muslims in the West", Majed adds;"There is a social dimension in that which is represented in the cooperation between Muslims and Jews in common cases. This cooperation surpasses the hosting of prayers to organizing lectures and dialogue between religions."

Robert Nosanchuk, the rabbi of the synagogue, said; "You really only get to know someone when you invite them into your home ... you learn to recognize their faces.You learn the names of their children" Nosanchuk adds;"When we told the visitors of the synagogue, who knew before about our cooperation with the mosque, they welcomed that cooperation which is considered to be an appliance for our values."

This event isn't an exceptional one, but Muslim Friday prayers were made along the last 7 years in Churches, and in Jewish synagogue since 1.5 years. The mosque hosted one of the survivors of the Nazi Holocaust who was rescued by the Albanian Muslims. And hosted too the breakfast of the Jewish Easter.

These great images of wonderful coexistence are represented in Sharia rules that are extracted from Qur'an and Sunna..

In Qur'an we can realize from Chapter 60, verse 8 that it's recommended and encouraged to deal kindly and justly with non-Muslims who don't fight against Muslims. "Allah forbids you not, with regard to those who fight you not for (your) Faith nor drive you out of your homes, from dealing kindly and justly with them: for Allah loveth those who are just." And that it's allowed according to Chapter 5, verse 5 to share non-Muslims food, eat on one table, and to make the most powerful social tie ever i.e. marriage. "This day are (all) things good and pure made lawful unto you. The food of the People of the Book is lawful unto you and yours is lawful unto them. (Lawful unto you in marriage) are (not only) chaste women who are believers, but chaste women among the People of the Book, revealed before your time,- when ye give them their due dowers, and desire chastity, not lewdness, nor secret intrigues if any one rejects faith, fruitless is his work, and in the Hereafter he will be in the ranks of those who have lost (all spiritual good)." In another verse, we can find a prohibition of reviling them so as to guarantee an atmosphere of comfort and peace. "Revile not ye those whom they call upon besides Allah, lest they out of spite revile Allah in their ignorance. Thus have We made alluring to each people its own doings. In the end will they return to their Lord, and We shall then tell them the truth of all that they did." 6:108

If we read Sunnah books we can realize how the prophet of Islam, Muhammad SAW, organized the relation between Muslims and Jews (People of the Book). We can see him standing in respect for a funeral of a Jewish man passing in front of him, telling his followers; "Isn't it a soul!". We can see him visiting a sick Jewish neighbor, however he was throwing rubbish in front of his door. When he immigrated to Medina, the first thing to do was to sign a convention between all the factors of Medina people including Jews. The basic articles in the convention between the prophet and the Jews of Medina were; Muslims have their own religion and Jews have their own religion, Both parties must defend against those who attack the parties of the convention, Between the parties is the advise and good not rancor, Victory is for the oppressed, The convention doesn't protect any oppressor. Very just, and very tolerant.

Conclusion; According to the teachings of Islam; sharing Jews and Christians the food and drink, visiting them in their homes, giving them presents and even marrying them are permitted and recommended manners.

Islam: Way Of Logical Conviction

One of the greatest features about Islamic religion is that it do respect the mind. It follows the route of logical conviction, the way of providing evidences that any normal free mind would simply accept. Unlike other faiths that would ignore the logical conviction depending on unapproachable secrets, and only the love towards some person, or concepts that deeply contradict the logical thinking, Islamic religion is so different.

One of the most verses that I like too much in the Qur'an is in the 2nd Chapter (The Cow). It's about an argument between prophet Abraham and a king that claims to be a god..

"Hast thou not Turned thy vision to one who disputed with Abraham About his Lord, because Allah had granted him power? Abraham said: "My Lord is He Who Giveth life and death." He said: "I give life and death". "

That man was a king claiming to be a god, when he argued with prophet Abraham about that, the prophet was trying to refute his claims, so he said that it's only Allah that can give life and death. The king answered that he too can give life and death, he said; "If I have two captives that will face the penalty of death, I'll execute the first, and gave amnesty to the other. That's how I can give death and life."

The prophet didn't argue with him that it's not what he meant by giving life and death, but he moved immediately to the next evidence..

Said Abraham: "But it is Allah that causeth the sun to rise from the east: Do thou then cause him to rise from the West." "

Every time I read this verse, I admire prophet Abraham and say; "How great are you, prophet Abraham!". He shut him up so simply! He revealed the truth to him by a very strong logical evidence. I wonder how the fellows of that king felt at that moment. It was a challenge for their minds, an invitation for them to stop and think for a moment; "If he is truly a god, so how he couldn't win that challenge!" I'm sure their minds were awakened up by hearing that argument.

"Thus was he confounded who (in arrogance) rejected faith. Nor doth Allah Give guidance to a people unjust."

Reading Chapter 21 (The Prophets) in Qur'an few days ago, I read great verses about the story of prophet Abraham trying to invite his people to abandon polytheism to worshiping the One God..

The verses start by;

"We bestowed aforetime on Abraham his rectitude of conduct, and well were We acquainted with him. * Behold! he said to his father and his people, "What are these images, to which ye are (so assiduously) devoted? * They said, "We found our fathers worshipping them." * He said, "Indeed ye have been in manifest error - ye and your fathers." * They said, "Have you brought us the Truth, or are you one of those who jest?" * He said, "Nay, your Lord is the Lord of the heavens and the earth, He Who created them (from nothing): and I am a witness to this (Truth). "

His people was worshiping idols, kneeling to them and providing sacrifices to them! An act that is obviously contradicting the mind and logical thinking. At first he argued with them, he said and they said too, when he found out that the argument is not revealing the mist away from their minds, and that the words are not enough, he decided to execute a plan, a plan that will make their eyes see a physical convincing evidence..

" "And by Allah, I have a plan for your idols - after ye go away and turn your backs". * So he broke them to pieces, (all) but the biggest of them, that they might turn (and address themselves) to it. "

The plan was about putting them face to face with the fact that; They Are Worshiping Stones! He broke all the idols using an ax, then he left the biggest idol untouched, and put the ax on the statue's shoulder..

"They said, "Who has done this to our gods? He must indeed be some man of impiety!" * They said, "We heard a youth talk of them: He is called Abraham." * They said, "Then bring him before the eyes of the people, that they may bear witness." * They said, "Art thou the one that did this with our gods, O Abraham?" * He said: "Nay, this was done by - this is their biggest one! ask them, if they can speak intelligently!" "

The scene for the people of Abraham was the next; Broken Idols, The Biggest One Is Unbroken With An Ax On Its Shoulder, and The Doer Is Unknown. They brought the one who might have did it i.e. Abraham and asked him; "Did you do it?" He simply pointed at the biggest statue saying; "He did it!".. "Ask them if they can speak!"

Prophet Abraham was saying to them; "That big statue that can't move and can't see is the one who broke your "gods"" He was challenging their minds. "Those idols that you found your fathers worshiping, kneeling and submitting to them, praying for them and providing sacrifices are just stones that cannot speak or feel. Where are your minds when you kneel to a stone?!! Or how you're thinking when you worship and provide sacrifices to a stone that cannot feel your worshiping and won't see or feel your sacrifices or even your presence?" By this plan, he was screaming at them; "WALK UP!"

He provided a very convincing evidence for their minds to make them think, to stop for a moment and let their minds see the truth. "Ask them, if they can speak intelligently!" A very short statement, but a very convincing evidence..

"So they turned to themselves and said, "Surely ye are the ones in the wrong!" * Then were they confounded with shame: (they said), "Thou knowest full well that these (idols) do not speak!" * (Abraham) said, "Do ye then worship, besides Allah, things that can neither be of any good to you nor do you harm? * "Fie upon you, and upon the things that ye worship besides Allah. Have ye no sense?".. "

Other great verse that clearly prove that faith isn't accepted from a Muslim if that faith didn't came from a strong conviction..

"Behold! in the creation of the heavens and the earth, and the alternation of night and day,- there are indeed Signs for men of understanding,- * Men who celebrate the praises of Allah, standing, sitting, and lying down on their sides, and contemplate the (wonders of) creation in the heavens and the earth, (With the thought): "Our Lord! not for naught Hast Thou created (all) this! Glory to Thee! Give us salvation from the penalty of the Fire. * "Our Lord! any whom Thou dost admit to the Fire, Truly Thou coverest with shame, and never will wrong-doers Find any helpers! * "Our Lord! we have heard the call of one calling (Us) to Faith, 'Believe ye in the Lord,' and we have believed. Our Lord! Forgive us our sins, blot out from us our iniquities, and take to Thyself our souls in the company of the righteous. * "Our Lord! Grant us what Thou didst promise unto us through Thine apostles, and save us from shame on the Day of Judgment: For Thou never breakest Thy promise." "

The message of these verses in Surah 3 (The Family Of 'Imran) is clear. Human must contemplate in the wonders of God's creation, and reach the truth of the faith and the truth of creation through that contemplation, through his own mind.

Important Fatwa About Terrorism

One confusing question for non-Muslims about Islam is;

When most of the violent acts against innocents are committed by the name of Islam, what does Islam itself say about such acts and killing innocent civilians and bombing crowded civil places?

Do Islam justify these things? OR does it refuse them?

Do all Muslims accept these attacks against innocents? OR they consider them as barbaric acts?

If a terrorist bombing a crowded train station is sending a message of hatred, so What is the message of other Muslims?

American Fiqh Council has issued a very important Fatwa about terrorist attacks. It's very important to read it to understand what Muslim scholars say about terrorist attacks against innocents, and to figure out what is running in the minds of the majority of Muslims.

"In the Name of God, the Compassionate, the Merciful

U.S. MUSLIM RELIGIOUS COUNCIL ISSUES FATWA AGAINST TERRORISM

The Fiqh Council of North America wishes to reaffirm Islam's absolute condemnation of terrorism and religious extremism.

Islam strictly condemns religious extremism and the use of violence against innocent lives.
There is no justification in Islam for extremism or terrorism. Targeting civilians' life and property through suicide bombings or any other method of attack is haram – or forbidden - and those who commit these barbaric acts are criminals, not "martyrs."

The Qur'an, Islam's revealed text, states: "Whoever kills a person [unjustly]…it is as though he has killed all mankind. And whoever saves a life, it is as though he had saved all mankind."
(Qur'an, 5:32)

Prophet Muhammad said there is no excuse for committing unjust acts: "Do not be people without minds of your own, saying that if others treat you well you will treat them well, and that if they do wrong you will do wrong to them. Instead, accustom yourselves to do good if people do good and not to do wrong (even) if they do evil." (Al-Tirmidhi)

God mandates moderation in faith and in all aspects of life when He states in the Qur'an: "We made you to be a community of the middle way, so that (with the example of your lives) you might bear witness to the truth before all mankind." (Qur'an, 2:143)

In another verse, God explains our duties as human beings when he says: "Let there arise from among you a band of people who invite to righteousness, and enjoin good and forbid
evil." (Qur'an, 3:104)

Islam teaches us to act in a caring manner to all of God's creation. The Prophet Muhammad, who is described in the Qur'an as "a mercy to the worlds" said: "All creation is the family of God, and the person most beloved by God (is the one) who is kind and caring toward His family."


In the light of the teachings of the Qur'an and Sunnah we clearly and strongly state:

1. All acts of terrorism targeting civilians are haram (forbidden) in Islam.
2. It is haram for a Muslim to cooperate with any individual or group that is involved in any act of terrorism or violence.
3. It is the civic and religious duty of Muslims to cooperate with law enforcement authorities to protect the lives of all civilians.

We issue this fatwa following the guidance of our scripture, the Qur'an, and the teachings of
our Prophet Muhammad – peace be upon him. We urge all people to resolve all conflicts in just and peaceful manners.

We pray for the defeat of extremism and terrorism. We pray for the safety and security of our country, the United States, and its people. We pray for the safety and security of all
inhabitants of our planet. We pray that interfaith harmony and cooperation prevail both in the United States and all around the globe."

FIQH COUNCIL OF NORTH AMERICA July 28, 2005

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