Ihsaan Magazine - April 2022 Issue - Who are we...

Ihsaan ISSUE 6 | APRIL 2022

MAGAZINE

HOW TO LOVE for the sake of ALLAH

IF I ONLY had a couple more days to live

7

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AMAZING VIRTUES OF

Good Character

Who are We...

“Who are we.. ”

Creative Director Umar Mohammed Editor Kerina Mohammed Photography Waaw Media shutterstock.com Art & Layout Waaw Media Contributing Partners Waaw Media Productive Muslim Al Ihsaan Institute My Deen Contributors Kerina Mohammed Rochelle Flores Abraar Alli Khawlah bint Yahya Hafsa Tanveer Mohannad Hakeem Sameera Hameed Contact Us Interested in advertising call +868-776-9229 Interested in writing call +868-487-0797 E-mail umar@waawmedia.com kerina@waawmedia.com To see more articles, recipes and activities visit us at: www.ihsaanmag.com To view our digital copy go to: www.ihsaanmag.com Check us out on social media: @ihsaanmag

2 | IHSAAN | ISSUE 6

EDITORIAL THEME

IHSAAN | ISSUE 6 | 3

Editorial

Who are We...

amadaan is noted for being a time of R reflection because of an automatic shift in the gears of our lives. Our time is

spent doing what we were created to do, worshipping our Lord and following His commands with focus and dedication, which leads to barakah in our time and energy. This gives us a feeling of calm, peace and the slowing down of what regularly seem like days filled with chaos and mayhem. This ‘extra time’ helps us to reflect on who we are outside of this month versus who we are in this beloved month and encourages us to do better and be better.

It is exactly this reflection that has been the inspiration for this year’s theme, Alhamdulillah. We often get so focused on our lives and managing days that feel like hours, with schedules that seem impossible, that we have lost sight of who we are. If someone were to ask you that question right now, what would your answer be? You may say your name and list some good traits that you may have, Alhamdulillah, but what if we asked your neighbour, or your spouse, or your colleagues, or family members, would they share the same sentiments?

How many people do you think will attend your janaaazah? How many people do you think spend nights making du’a for you right now or would make the time when you are no more?

How many people will remember your kindness, gentleness and presence after you have gone and will ask Allah on your behalf? Who are we outside of our fardh acts of worship?

Our lives have gotten so filled with ‘things’ that we only find time to fulfil our compulsory acts of worship. We believe in Allah and associate no partners with Him, pray our salaah, pay our zakaah, make the pilgrimage, if we are able and invited, and fast during Ramadaan, Alhamdulillah, but those are things we do, not who we are.

Our Prophet (SAW) did all these things, yet if we ask who he was 1400 years later, answers like honest, kind, loyal and just will flow without hesitation.

The world cries making du’a for him more than a century later not because of his compulsory acts of worship but because of who he was. Millions of people love him and long to be in his company without seeing him or knowing him. This is his legacy! What will be ours?

Today, with the world still managing in a pandemic, we have seen so many of our brothers and sisters who have left this world. We have buried loved ones day after day, we have attended janaazah after janaazah of our neighbours, friends and colleagues who would do anything for just one more day. We have that day, in shaa Allah, let us use it to reflect on the legacy we want to leave behind before our number is called.

Let us ponder on who we are and work towards who we want to be in this life and how we want to be remembered when Allah finally calls us back to Him. So when the question is asked “who was he?” tears will flow and dua’s will be made because of the impact we had.

I pray that this edition brings each of you reading it, benefit, hope and success. Please keep the contributors of this publication in your dua’s and pray for its continued success. May Allah accept our efforts and intentions and grant us all forgiveness, mercy and Jannatul Firdaus. Aameen.

Kerina Mohammed

Kerina Mohammed

Senior Editor - Ihsaan Magazine

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Who are We...

This year’s theme is one which is applicable to a general population and not just the Muslim community. We should all strive to be better human beings and to leave behind positivity and goodness to those whose lives we have impacted.

The articles in this magazine have been divided into different areas so that we can better understand each stage of this process of becoming better versions of ourselves.

SECTION 1 WHY SHOULD WE BE BETTER ?

This section features articles that help us understand why we should strive to better versions of ourselves.

SECTION 2 TRINI TO TRINI ‘A LOOK AT MYSELF’ This section features articles written by Trini Muslims as they reflect on the balance necessary to be better Muslims living in T&T.

SECTION 3 WHAT WE CAN DO TO BE BETTER ?

After identifying why and finding a balance, this section helps us with the ‘how’, highlighting ways we can improve our character and be better.

But before we delve into these articles here’s an intro article ‘If I only had a couple more days to live’ to help us understand what would happen and where our focus would be if our time was near.

IF I HAD A COUPLE MORE DAYS TO LIVE...

Written by: Mohannad Hakeem You may be wondering about the title of this article and how it pertains to who we are outside of our obligatory acts of worship. Well, when we think about it, who we are plays a significant role in where we will end up when our time in this dunya comes to an end. Our obligatory acts of worship will be rewarded in shaa Allah and will help us to be counted among the righteous, but it is our deeds outside of these obligatory acts that will help determine our status and ultimately help us where we fall short.

Alhamdulillah this pandemic has seen at least one positive, and that is, Muslims around the world were mandated to ponder on death and ultimately our quality of life. This article highlights some things that we need to look at ‘if we had a couple more days to live..’ Ultimately we do not know when our time will be up or alternately how long we have left, but one thing is certain, that with each passing day our time here shortens and we come closer to our inevitable end.

Imagine, while working on a project that is due next week, you get a phone call from your doctor, telling you that you only have a couple more days to live and that you need to start packing up your luggage in preparation for your long journey to the afterlife… what would you do?

So back to our example: You freak out, start calling friends (or posting goodbye notes on social media) and seek their forgiveness; you may rush to do wudhu and start praying and probably make up the ones you missed. You check your wallet and your bank account and start sending donations left and right; you jump to your Qur’an – it has been a while since you last opened it – and begin reading profusely…

While rushing around, you try to remember if you owe money, books, or ANYTHING to your friends, knowing that the amaanah (trust) and the rights of people are no joking matters when it comes to departing from this world.

I usually give this scenario to my students and enjoy their creative answers on what goes on the “bucket list” of deeds for a believer in his/her final moments.

I don’t disagree that all of the above are important, especially charity since it is explicitly mentioned as one of the deeds that you would wish to do at the moment of death, as Allah swt says,

“And spend, in the way of Allah, from what We have provided you before death approaches one of you and he says, ‘My Lord, if only You would delay me for a brief term so I would give charity and be among the righteous.’” [Qur’an: Chapter 63, Verse 10] WHAT IS AKHIRAH-ORIENTED PRODUCTIVITY? There is a unanimous agreement among all of those whom I asked that finishing assignments, or term paper, or any dunya (worldly) work does not make it to the bucket list. We have this dunya–akhirah dichotomy that assumes we should separate our Hereafter affairs from our worldly efforts. We think we’re either in worship OR studying. We are either seeking the pleasure of Allah (swt) by volunteering in an “Islamic” nonprofit setting OR we are trying to work on our resume or planning our next business venture.

The separation between our worldly goals and akhirah aspirations is one of the reasons why our Ummah has been behind for so long, after being the leading Ummah in the past.

This separation is causing a lot of people to look down to religiosity and staying away from Muslim organizations and religious people.

This separation is becoming a drug that some young Muslims resort to in order to justify their incompetence and their laziness.

After first meeting Br. Abu Productive (Mohammed Faris, CEO of ProductiveMuslim), this inspired me to start writing and sharing my reflections on ‘Akhirah Oriented Productivity‘. As the name implies, it is a lens that helps a Muslim keep his eyes on the Akhirah (afterlife) while moving his feet and hands in the dunya (worldly present life). When we reflect on death, it is normal to feel that strong desire to make changes in our lives. In sha Allah this article will help you take that desire and convert it to useful energy, which spins your wheels effectively and efficiently in this world.

FINISH PLANTING YOUR SEED The following hadith is the foundation of the akhirah-oriented productivity; it gives us the correct action items that a believer should

have after being reminded about death and the afterlife. Prophet Muhammad saw said: “If the Final Hour comes while you have a palm-cutting in your hands and it is possible to plant it before the Hour comes, you should plant it.” [Al-Adab Al-Mufrad] Think about it for a second: what are the images that are painted in our minds when we hear about the start of the Day of Judgment?

• The sun rising from the west, • The angel Israfil blowing into the horn (by the way, he has been in a position ready to blow that horn since the time of the prophet Muhammad saw), • The earth shaking, the moon and the sun colliding with each other, mountains set into random motion…

Despite all that, our beautiful religion teaches us to finish planting our seed; one might argue: but most likely no one will eat from that tree!

No one will live to be shaded under it or even look at how beautiful it is!

Probably no oxygen will be left and no sun will be around to nurture that tree!

Again Islam is teaching us: do your part. You are to be judged by how “productive” you were in planting your seeds and won’t be held accountable for the actual fruits.

You may be wondering right now: “OK I get it; I need to plant as many seeds as possible to prepare myself for the Akhirah!” But what kind of seed should I aim for? And where should I start? Is there anyone from our Muslim history who kept on planting the seeds until his/her final moment?

SEEK KNOWLEDGE UNTIL THE LAST BREATH Story Time! My favorite story in this regards is that of Abu Yusuf Al-Qhadi, who is the most famous student of Imam Abu Hunaifa and a “founding father” of the Hanafi school of thought. It is narrated that when he was on his death bed, and he was struggling with the pains of death, a group of people was visiting him, and you can assume they were students of knowledge themselves.

He asked them: “If someone is performing hajj, and reached the stage of Rami al Jamarat (throwing the stones during the first three days of Eid), is it better for him to do so while walking or while riding on an animal?”

The others were amazed by his dedication, and they replied: “May Allah swt forgive you, Abu Yusuf!

Even in the last breath of your life, you are asking us about this ruling?”

He answered, “I’d rather meet Allah (swt) while knowing the answer to this question, instead of meeting Him with ignorance about it.”

It will never be possible to gain all the knowledge about our religion in our lifetime, but we should all aim to be seekers of knowledge, so we can die as one, in sha Allah. Attend weekly classes at your local mosque, enrol onto an online course or simply look for a class playlist on YouTube.

BABY STEPS TOWARDS AN AKHIRAH ORIENTED PRODUCTIVITY I will leave you with some practical tips on how the akhira can help us become more productive: • When you plan your day or write a to-do list, start with the most critical task (as they say: eat your frog) knowing that you may not live to finish your day and complete all your other tasks.

•

•

If any item on your busy schedule causes you to delay the essentials (the five daily prayers, serving your parents, etc.), then don’t bother with trying to be productive on other things, because you are definitely planting the wrong seed.

as you can not to leave an embarrassing one.

•

Perform a self-assessment after listening to a lecture about the afterlife: did the emotional energy and the tears translate into more action, or more depression and helplessness? Try to quantify the outcome and use specific examples, numbers, and incidents.

•

Always have a sincere intention and a purpose in your actions. This will, in sha Allah, turn your 9-5 job, weekends, hours of sleep, and fun moments and leisure time to pure ibadah time.

‫هادي تبتك ام رهدلا يقبي و ىنفيس الإ بتاك نم امو‬ ‫نأ ةمايقلا موي كرسي ءيش ريغ كطخب بتكت الف‬ ‫هاقلت‬ “People walking on this earth are writers who will eventually perish, But the days will keep what they have written, So make sure that whatever you write and leave behind, Will be a source of pride on the day of resurrection.”

When posting on social media, remember that you are leaving your footprint in this world; try as much

Anas ibn Malik reported: The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said:

The faith of a servant is not upright until his heart is upright, and his heart is not upright until his tongue is upright. A man will not enter Paradise if his neighbor is not secure from his evil.

Source: Musnad Ahmad 13047, Grade: Hasan

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7

Amazing Virtues of Good Character

“ Keeping in line with the theme of the magazine and how we identify outside of our obligatory acts of worship, here are seven virtues of having good character. “ KHAWLAH BINT YAHYA

Character is the 1 Good Main Reason People will Enter Paradise

Prophet Muhammad said: What is most likely to send people to Paradise? Being conscious of Allah and good manners. (AlBukhari) He (peace be upon him) also said: I guarantee a house on the outskirts of the Garden to anyone who abstains from disputation, even if he is in the right, and a house in the middle of the Garden for anyone who abandons lying, even when he jests, and a house at the highest of the Garden for anyone who has good character.

Highest on the 2 Be Scale Prophet Muhammad said: Nothing is weightier on the Scale of Deeds than one’s good manners. (AlBukhari)

3 Be Close to the

Prophet on the Day of Judgment The Prophet said: Those I love most and those sitting nearest to me on the Day of Rising will be those of you with the best character. Those most hateful to me and the furthest of you from me on the Day of Rising will be the pompous, the braggarts and the arrogant…

the Stations of 4 Reach Those Engrossed in Worship

‘Aisha ra said:

to Allah, are the best of them in character

I heard the Messenger of Allah say, ‘By his good character a believer can reach the same rank as someone who fasts and prays at night.’

Character was 6 Good the Way of the Prophet

How beautiful is it if the person fasts and prays at night, and perfects his character, then no one can compare to him.

the Most 7 Maintain Perfect Belief

Beloved of Allah 5 Be and His Messenger The Prophet said, in Tabaraani: The most beloved servants of Allah,

In the Quran Allah says: And indeed, you are of a great moral character.

(68:4)

The Prophet Muhammad said: The believers with the most perfect belief are the best of them in character. The best of you are the best of you towards your wives.

SECTION 1

>> MISSION POSSIBLE There are two types of people; some are blessed by Allah to have naturally a noble character and others have to develop it by training themselves with knowledge and effort.

An example is people who are very calm by nature and people who easily get angry.

It takes the latter struggle and practice to restrain their anger and gain the reward from Allah An example is the companion Ashj ‘Abul alQayis to whom the Prophet said: You have two qualities which Allah and His messenger love – forbearance and ease.

In another narration, Ashj asked the Prophet: “Are these qualities that I have acquired, or did Allah fashion me this way?”

The Prophet responded: Allah created you that way.

Upon hearing this Ashj responded: “All praise be to Allah who created me with two characteristics beloved to Him and His messenger!”

So thank Allah for the qualities He blessed you with!

The Prophet said: I was sent only to complete noble character.

This means having a noble character, inside and outside, is within reach for all of us!

>> SO HOW TO ATTAIN

GOOD CHARACTER?

By learning and practicing. Good character is based on five important qualities: Knowledge; A willingness to change; Patience; Good nature; Sound submission – Islam. (Ibn ul Qayyim) Here are some practical tips on how to strive for a good character: 1. Be sincere in asking Allah to give you good character; make dua day and night!

2. Be patient and keep trying; fight your nafs to leave lying, bad words, bad environments, etc.

3. Surround yourself with people of good character; make dua Allah brings righteous people on your path.

4. Accept advice and seek forgiveness from others; if your mother says, “my son, don’t say that”, you should listen to her, and don’t be arrogant.

Arrogance is rejecting truth, even if it is from your child, or your wife. You will not enter Paradise if there is even a grain of arrogance in your heart. Even if it is a disbeliever who corrects your mistake, accept his advice.

5. Read books about good character; look in the Seerah, it was said: I don’t beautify Muhammad by my words, rather he beautifies my words.

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SECTION 1

GOOD CHARACTER

We keep hearing the term good character used frequently, but why is having good character so important.

Islam has placed great emphasis on noble character, in fact it was an important objective in the Prophet’s (saw) mission. When we take a look at good or noble character in Islam, we truly understand it’s importance and why we should all strive to emulate it.

PERFECTION OF NOBLE CHARACTER WAS ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT OBJECTIVES OF THE PROPHET’S MISSION Allah [swt] says, “It is He who raised up among the unlettered [Arabs] a Messenger from them to recite His verses to them and purify them and teach them the Book and Wisdom, even though before that they were clearly misguided.” (Soorat Al-Jumu’ah, 62:2) This verse reveals one of the favours Allah [swt] has bestowed on the believers, stating that He has sent them His Messenger, Muhammad [saw] , to teach them the Qur’an and to purify them.

Purification can only be attained by purging one’s heart from such imperfections as associating others with Allah [swt] in worship, having bad moral character like hatred and jealousy and ridding one’s speech and deeds of all forms of evil practices. The Prophet [saw] once declared, “I have been sent to perfect noble character.” (Sunan Al-Bayhaqee: 21301) This statement makes

it clear that one of the reasons behind the Prophet’s mission was to elevate and perfect the moral character of the individual and society at large.

NOBLE CHARACTER IS PART AND PARCEL OF FAITH AND BELIEF Perfection of noble character was one of the most important objectives of the Prophet’s mission.

When asked about the best of the believers, the Prophet [saw] replied, “They are those who have the best character and manners.”

(Sunan At-Tirmidhee: 1162; Sunan Abu Daawood: 4682) In fact, the Qur’an uses the comprehensive Arabic word birr to refer to faith. As the Qur’an states, “Righteousness (birr) does not lie in turning your faces [during prayer] to the East or to the West.

Rather, those with true devoutness are the ones who believe in Allah, the Last Day, the angels, the Book and the Prophets…” (Soorat

Al-Baqarah, 2:177) The word birr is a rather comprehensive term which includes all forms of righteousness, in word and deed. It is for this reason that the Prophet [saw] said, “Righteousness (birr) is good character.” (Saheeh Muslim: 2553) This becomes clear in the Prophet’s declaration: “Faith (eemaan) has sixty odd branches.

The uppermost of all these is the Testimony of Faith: Laa ilaaha illallaah (There is no god worthy of worship except Allah) while the least of them is the removal of a harmful object from the road.

Shyness is a branch of faith.”

(Saheeh Muslim: 35) NOBLE CHARACTER PERMEATES ALL ACTS OF WORSHIP Every time Allah commands the believers to perform an act of worship, He draws their attention to its moral significance or its positive effect on the individual and society. Examples of this are numerous and include the following:

The Prayer: “Establish the prayer, for the prayer restrains from shameful and unjust deeds.”

(Soorat Al-’Ankaboot, 29:45).

The Obligatory Charity Payment (Zakaat): “Take zakaat from their wealth to purify and cleanse themwith it.” (Soorat At-Tawbah: 9:103) Besides showing kindness and giving comfort to people, zakaat refines benefactor’s character and purges it from evil practices.

Fasting: O You who believe, fasting has been prescribed for you just as it was prescribed for those before you, so that you may remain conscious of Allah.” (Soorat Al-Baqarah: 183) This verse makes it abundantly clear that the foremost objective of fasting is to realise consciousness of Allah by obeying His commands and avoiding all words and deeds He has prohibited. As the Prophet [saw] said, “ Whoever does not abandon false speech and false conduct, then Allah has no need of his abandoning of food and drink.”

(Saheeh Al-Bukhaaree: 1804) Therefore, if fasting fails to effect a change in one’s character and dealings with others, it will by no means serve its real purpose.

•

When the Prophet [saw] was asked about which act leads people to enter Paradise the most, he replied, “Piety and good character.” (Sunan AtTirmidhee: 2004; Sunan Ibn Maajah: 4246)

•

Of all people, those who have good character will be the closest to the Prophet [saw] on the Day of Judgement.

•

The Prophet [saw] said, “The dearest to me among you and the nearest to me on the Day of Judgement are those who have the best character.” (Sunan AtTirmidhee: 2018) The Prophet [saw] guarantees a house in the highest part of Paradise to those who have good character:

THE IMMENSE REWARDS ALLAH [SWT] HAS IN STORE FOR THOSE WHO OBSERVE GOOD CHARACTER TEXTUAL PROOFS FROM THE QUR’AN AND THE SUNNAH TO THIS EFFECT ARE NUMEROUS, INCLUDING THE FOLLOWING:

•

•

Good character will be the heaviest righteous deed to be placed on a person’s scale of deeds on the Day of Judgement.

•

•

The Prophet[saw] said, “No deed that will be placed on the scale of deeds [on the Day of Judgement] will be heavier than good character. Indeed, a person with good character will attain the rank of those with a good record of voluntary fasts and prayers.” (Sunan AtTirmidhee: 2003)

•

It is the very deed that will lead people to enter Paradise the most.

•

“I guarantee a house in the surroundings of Paradise for those who give up arguing, even if they are in the right; and I guarantee a house in the middle of Paradise for those who abandon lying even when joking; and I guarantee a house in the highest part of Paradise for those who have good character and manners.”

(Sunan Abu Daawood: 4800) Good character is one of the meritorious deeds in the sight of Allah and serves to give us a sense of inner fulfilment and happiness.

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF NOBLE CHARACTER IN ISLAM Noble character in Islam is characterised by unique qualities which distinguish it from all other faiths, including the following NOBLE CHARACTER IS NOT CONFINED TO A PARTICULAR TYPE OF PEOPLE Almighty Allah has made people into different shapes, colours and languages. They are all equal in His sight, and no one has an advantage over another except in piety and noble conduct, as the Qur’an states, “O mankind, We have created you of a male and a female, and made you into nations and tribes that you may know one another; verily, the most honourable of you, in the sight of Allah, are the most pious of you.”

(Soorat Al-Hujuraat, 49:13) Indeed, noble character characterises Muslims’ relationship with all members of society: There is no difference whatsoever between rich and poor, black and white, Arab and non-Arab, or a prince and a pauper.

wasting them. Corruption in all its forms and by whatever means it may be caused is frowned upon in Islam and abhorred to the Creator Himself, as the Qur’an states, “Allah does not like corruption.” (Soorat AlBaqarah, 2:205)

HOW TO TREAT NON-MUSLIMS

Allah[sat] commands us to show kindness and courtesy to everyone without exception, for justice, kindness and mercy are aspects of good character which a Muslim observes in his words and deeds with Muslims and non-Muslims alike. A Muslim ought to embody good character traits as a means to call others to this great religion of Islam.

The Qur’an says, “Allah does not forbid you from being good to those who have not fought you on account of your religion or driven you from your homes, or from being just towards them. Allah loves those who are just.” (Soorat AlMumtahinah, 60:8) Allah only forbids us to make friends with those belligerent nonMuslims who fight us because of our religion. He also forbids us to admire their way of life which clearly upholds unbelief and polytheist practices, as the Qur’an states, “Allah only forbids you respecting those who made war upon you on account of [your] religion, and drove you forth from your homes and backed up [others] in your expulsion, that you make friends with them.

Whoever takes them for friends are wrongdoers.” (Soorat AlMumtahinah, 60:9) A Muslim always maintains high moral standards when dealing with people regardless of their religion or race.

NOBLE CHARACTER IS NOT CONFINED ONLY TO HUMAN BEINGS GOOD TREATMENT OF ANIMALS

The Prophet [saw] once mentioned that a woman deserved punishment in Hellfire because of a cat that she had restrained and left it to starve to death. He also mentioned the story of a man whom Allah had forgiven after giving a thirsty dog some water to drink: “A woman entered Hellfire because of a cat which she had tied, neither giving it food nor setting it free to eat from the vermin of the earth.”(Saheeh Al-Bukhaaree: 3140; Saheeh Muslim: 2619) He also said, “While a man was walking along a road, he became very thirsty and he found a well. He lowered himself into the well, drank and came out. Then he saw a dog panting and eating mud because of excessive thirst. The man said,‘This dog has become exhausted from thirst in the same way as I.’ He lowered himself into the well again and filled his shoe with water and gave the dog some water to drink.

Allah thanked him for his good deed and forgave him.” The people asked, “Messenger of Allah! Is there a reward for us in serving these animals?” “Yes,” he replied, “There is a reward for serving every living thing.” (Saheeh Al-Bukhaaree: 5663; Saheeh Muslim: 2244).

PRESERVATION OF THE ENVIRONMENT Islam urges its adherents to safeguard the environment.

Islam instructs us to make the world a better place by utilising theearth’s natural resources to build a civilization and engage in development and production for the general welfare of mankind, while at the same time trying to preserve such resources and prevent others from abusing or unnecessarily

In fact, Islam is so concerned about this issue that it goes as far as to direct its adherents to do righteous deeds and engage in such things as cultivating the land even in times of great turmoil and under terrifying circumstances, such as the Day of Judgement. As the Prophet [saw] once instructed, “If the Day of Judgement takes place [and you recognise the Event], while a man is holding a palm-tree seedling [to plant in the soil], let him, if he can, plant it.” (Musnad Ahmad: 12981) NOBLE CHARACTER IN ALL ASPECTS OF LIFE THE FAMILY

Islam stresses the importance of noble character among all members of the family, as the Prophet [saw] said, “The best of you are those who treat their wives the best, and I am the best of you in this respect.”

(Sunan At-Tirmidhee: 3895) • Despite being the best human being of all time, Prophet Muhammad [saw] shared household chores with his wives and helped around the house, as ‘Aa’ishah , one of his wives, once said about him, “He used to help his wives with the housework.”(Saheeh AlBukhaaree: 5048) • He also used to joke with his family members. ‘Aa’ishah ~ said, “I accompanied the Prophet [saw] on a certain journey when I was young and thin. The Prophet [saw] asked the people to move on, and they marched ahead. Then he turned to me and said, ‘Come on, let us have a race’. I raced him and I won the race. He did not mention this incident again.However, when I later put on more weight and I forgot all about this incident, I accompanied him again on some other journey. He asked the people to march ahead, and they did. Then he asked me to race him. I raced him, but he won. The Prophet laughed and

said, ‘This was to make up for my previous defeat.’”(Musnad Ahmad: 26277) TRADE

Because people’s love of wealth may get the better of them and prompt them to engage in forbidden practices, Islam stresses the importance of observing noble character which serves to put an end to such practices. The following are some examples of the points Islam stresses in this respect: • It warns traders who deal with fraud against a severe punishment on the Day of Judgement, as the Qur’an states, “Woe to those who give short measure or weight; those who, when they take a measure from people, exact full measure, but when they give them a measure or weight, hand over less than is due.” (Soorat Al-Mutaffifeen, 83:3).

• It urges traders to show kindness and leniency, as the Prophet [saw] said, “May Allah have mercy on a man who is kind when he buys, when he sells and when he demands his due.”(Saheeh Al-Bukhaaree: 1970) INDUSTRY

Islam advises workers to observe a number of ethical principles and standards, including the following: • To be as highly proficient at their jobs as they possibly can.

The Prophet [saw] said, “Allah likes to see that when you do something that you do it well.”

(Musnad Abu Ya’laa: 4386, AlBayhaqee’sShu’ab Al-Eemaan: 5313) • To honour their obligations, as the Prophet [saw] said, “The signs of the hypocrite are three: when he speaks he lies, when he promises he breaks his promise and when he is entrusted he betrays the trust.” (Saheeh AlBukhaaree: 33) NOBLE CHARACTER UNDER ALL CIRCUMSTANCES There are no exceptions whatsoever when it comes to talking about good moral character in Islam. A Muslim is required to follow the dictates

of Islamic law and observe noble character even in times of war and in difficult times, for there is no such thing in Islam as the end justifies the means. In other words, bad or unfair methods of doing something are by no means acceptable even if the result of that action is good or positive. It is for this reason that Islam has laid down rules and criteria which govern Muslims’ behaviour even in times of war so that they would not succumb to fits of rage, driven by intolerance which feeds their anger and satisfies hatred and malicious and selfish tendencies.

SOME WAR ETHICS IN ISLAM

1.

Islam commands justice even with non-Muslims and warns against wronging them in any way: The Qur’an says, “Do not let the hatred of others to you make you swerve to wrong and depart from justice. Be just: that is next to piety.” (Soorat AlMaa’idah, 5:8) That is, do not let your enmity for your enemies exceed the limits and turn you away from justice in either words or actions.

2. It strictly forbids treachery and betrayal when dealing with the enemy: Islam forbids treachery and betrayal even against the enemy, as the Qur’an states, “Allah does not love treacherous people.”

(Soorat AlAnfaal, 8:58) 3.

It strictly forbids mutilation of dead bodies of enemies: It declares mutilation of corpses strictly

impermissible, as the Prophet [saw] once ordered, “Do not mu-

tilate people.” (Saheeh Muslim: 1731) 4. It prohibits the killing of noncombatants, destroying the environment and causing corruption in the land: Upon despatching a military expedition to the northern borders of the Roman territory, Abu Bakr As-Siddeeq , the first Rightly-Guided Caliph and the best of all the Prophet’s companions, addressed its leader, Usaamah ibn Zayd , saying, “Do not let your army kill young children, old people or women. Do not uproot or burn palms or cut down fruitful trees. Do not slaughter sheep, cows or camels, except for food. You will come across some people who have set themselves apart in hermitages; leave them to accomplish the purpose for which they have done this.”(Taareekh Ibn Asaakir, vol. 2, p. 50)

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Trini’?

Written by: Rochelle Flores

Please don’t get me wrong, I am not saying that all aspects of what makes us as Trinidadians born and bred misaligns with being a Muslim – by all means, not at all.

I enjoy a good bake and shark as the next guy (packed with all the condiments falling out the sides of course), doubles (bara and channa) is an absolute must have of course, and a good ol’ trip to the beach is by all means a necessity for all Trinidadians.

to the Bone

SECTION 2

As I read the list of characteristics this t-shirt used to define a Trinidadian, I found myself wondering, rather than acknowledging whether I, myself being a ‘Trini’, fell under any of those categories. I came to the realisation and asked myself, is this really what it means to be a true Trini? Am I guilty – and I use that term carefully, because when we contrast what it means to be Trini (according to this Trini to de bone t-shirt), with being a Muslim – Am I guilty of being ‘too

Are we as Muslims falling into the so-called ‘Trini’ mentality and behaviour that may go against what we believe as Muslims?

Tini

I

stumbled across an interesting T-shirt the other day that caught my attention, not so much because of its colour or style, but rather for what was written on the front. The words jumped out at me, almost glaringly, because what was written captured exactly what we know to be a true representation of a ‘Trini’.

However, unfortunately, these alone aren’t what Trinidadians, and the Trini culture are known for, and this my friend is where we delve into the crux of the matter. So what part of being ‘Trini’ isn’t exactly what is supposed to align with being a Muslim? Let’s find out. .

1. Trinidadians are just tired working – While I am sure we all agree that working long hours or even working overtime would be tiring for everyone, however, having a somewhat lackadaisical attitude towards things we are supposed to do and are entrusted to us, isn’t a very appealing characteristic, especially to employers.

As Muslims it is upon us to try our best to attain perfection in all that we do, and this also includes having proper work ethic – be in as an employer or employee. We are supposed to be fair, just, honest, goodnatured, and upright in all of our dealings, whether in the workplace or outside of it.

The Prophet (saw) said: ‘Verily, Allah loves that when anyone of you does something he does it perfectly.’ [Sahih Al Bukhari] 2. Trinidadians are always ready to Fete – Well if this isn’t the truth then I don’t know what is! As Trinidadians, we are known the world over as being some of the most laid-back people in the world who loves a good fete, but if we

really examine what is involved in a ‘fete’ in the first place, I think we can conclude that it absolutely against the teachings of Islam. When you hear the word fete, I am certain the first thing that comes to your mind is, alcohol, music, dancing, lewdness and free mixing of the sexes.

No doubt this goes against the Principle of Haya, in Islam. Some of you may ask, “What is Haya’?” , well haya’ to put it simply means modesty, however, it means much more than being modest. It means conscientiousness, shame, modesty, bashfulness, and all related qualities that deter a person from behaving indecently. Our noble Prophet (salallahu alaihi wa salaam) taught us about having Haya’ and it is mentioned as one of the branches of Iman (Faith).

Narrated Abu Huraira:

The Prophet (saw) said, “Faith (Belief) consists of more than

sixty branches (i.e. parts). And Haya (This term “Haya” covers a large number of concepts which are to be taken together; amongst them are self respect, modesty, bashfulness, and scruple, etc.) is a part of faith.”

(Sahih Al Bukhari) 3. Trinidadians are always in other people’s business – I will start this point by quoting an ayah (verse) of Qur’an and a hadith from our Messenger Muhammad (salallahu alaihi wa salaam),

“O your who have believed, avoid much [negative] assumption.

Indeed, some assumption is sin.

And do not spy or backbite each other. Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his brother when dead? You would detest it. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Accepting of Repentance and Merciful.”

(Surah Al-Hujurat ayah 12) On the authority of Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him)

who said: The Messenger of Allah (salallahu alaihi wa salaam) said: “Part of the perfection of one’s Islam is his leaving that which does not concern him.”

No doubt we may know people who likes to gossip (or even fall into that category ourselves), or someone who just wants to know what’s going on other people’s lives, whether it concerns them or not, but from the above quoted qur’anic verse and hadith, they reiterate for us how important it is to not concern ourselves with the matters of other people. This, to the point of it allowing us to perfect our Islam. It is a great part of good character to busy ourselves with our own affairs, in ensuring that we, as Muslims are doing all that we can to perfect our own character and elevates our own selves to be the best Muslim we can be, with Allah’s Help.

When we examine the core of Islam, we see that we are supposed to as Muslims, try our very best to achieve Ihsan in all our affairs. What is Ihsan then? We see the word Ihsan being mentioned in the Hadith of Jibreel

(alaihis salaam), as seen from a snippet below taken from a much longer Hadith, The Prophet(saw) said, “Excellence (Ihsan) is to worship Allah as if you see Him, for if you do not see Him, He surely sees you.”

(Sahih Muslim) Ihsan is an Arabic word which essentially means, “perfection”, “beautification” or “excellence”.

Thus, as Muslims, we should strive to attain perfection in all our affairs – first and foremost in our Worship, then in our family affairs, our dealings with co-workers, neighbours, our work ethic and in every other aspect of our lives. Our entire life should be affected in some way by our striving and yearning for Ihsan.

Surely, every single one of us is a ‘Trini’ at heart, but it is of utmost importance that we remember, and keep in the forefront of our minds that we must and should always remain, above and beyond a Muslim before we identify as anything else, no matter what.

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BAD MANNERS Written by: Abraar Alli

THIS IS A COMMON CARIBBEAN SLANG THAT CAN BE CONSIDERED AN OXYMORON. “PLAIN TALK” IS NO`T A BAD THING, PROVIDED IT’S DONE IN THE RIGHT WAY. For Trinidadians however, the culture of plain talk bad manners often goes way beyond the bounds of Islamic social etiquette. In Islam, your character is an identifying trait that makes you stand out from others. More importantly, it is a measure of the goodness of a person.

The Prophet (SAW), said,

Nothing is heavier upon the scale of a believer on the Day of Resurrection than his good character. Verily, Allah hates the vulgar and obscene.” (Tirmidhī) Trini culture is vulgar. There’s no denying that this has been an issue for generations, especially with the dawn of the new age of nudity, alcohol, liming, partying and gyrating in the streets for Carnival. No solution has yet been produced for this problem, though attempts have been made. “Prime Minister Patrick Manning is to engage with the inter-religious organisation to come up with suggestions to at least curb what they consider vulgar aspects of the masquerade.” - BBC Caribbean, 2006.

As ‘Umar ibn al-Khattaab (RA) has famously said: “Take account of yourselves before you are brought to account (on the Day of Judgment).” Every person should engage in deep self-reflection in every aspect of their lives. Their beliefs, their family life, their social life, and their livelihood should be under constant improvement. A Muslim is never stagnant.

SECTION 2

PLAIN TALK

While most Muslims make a conscious effort to stay away from open vulgarity, how many of us indulge in other aspects of Trini culture with little thought for how this affects us as Muslims? Do we recognise our inability to maintain social Islamic manners and etiquette?

Many of the common behaviours of Trinbagonians are not becoming of a dignified society, and certainly do not conform with what our beloved Prophet Muhammad (SAW) outlined for us as acceptable behaviour. While it is impossible to address all of the issues, a few pertinent ones will be highlighted as food for thought.

“Nobody cyah tell meh what to do!”

“Doh study he. He too dotish!”

-Said Ramesh, while being directed by a police officer.`

Said Marlon, after being asked about putting his garbage in the neighbour’s yard.

We as a Trinbagonian society have little respect for authority and far less for the laws of the land. Mixed in with shamelessness and a general lack of accountability, this is the recipe for a lawless society. The quality of arrogance - believing that no one is above you - is catastrophic and its destruction is devastating.

It is a norm in Trinidad that when we disagree with someone’s actions, we very quickly turn to ‘character assassination’.

Rather than weighing out the pros and cons of a certain action, logic goes out the window and we start attacking the person themselves. We bring up unrelated things they have done in the past to undermine the person’s character, believing that by making ourselves look better, we will be perceived as being right. The problem often goes unsolved. Going around needlessly destroying peoples’ character and advertising their faults is detrimental to society and completely against Islamic etiquette.

This evil trait might be commonplace in Trinbagonian culture but is rooted in the volatile trait of kibr (pride) which was the sin of Shaytan. Furthermore, being subject to criticism is something an arrogant person hates. They are dismayed by the idea of damage to their prestige. When told that they have made an error, rather than solving the problem, they focus on absolving themselves of any blame. The plight of such people is highlighted in the Qur’an: “Enter the gates of

hell to abide in it eternally, evil is the final destination of the arrogant.” (39:72)

“Whoever conceals the (hidden) fault of his Muslim brother, Allah (SWT) will conceal his faults on the Day of Resurrection.

Whoever exposes the fault of his Muslim brother, Allah will expose his faults, until He shames him, due to it, in his (own) house.” (Ibn Majah)

“Yuh get so fat since last time ah see yuh!”

-Said Aminah, after inserting herself into a conversation.

While there is something to be said for speaking plainly, this is plainly insulting.

Derogatory comments casually disguised as friendly small talk are the norm in T&T. It is not acceptable to make unconstructive negative comments toward people. “Long time I eh see yuh.

You does only call me when you need something.” These types of thoughtless remarks can leave a person in emotional upheaval for days and some of us will never know the damaging impact of our actions. If one intends to correct someone, there is an etiquette to be followed in reforming people.

Being “boldfaced” does not fall within those bounds. Instead, the words of the Prophet (SAW) should be taken into account, “Let the

one who believes in Allah and the Last Day speak good or remain silent.” (Sahih Bukhārī)

“Ah jus dey relaxing.”

-Said Mark, after relaxing for the entire year.

Trinidad and Tobago has been named the happiest Caribbean country. Whether this is due to genuine happiness, or a complete lack of work ethic remains to be seen. From prioritising partying and drinking to skiving off work on rainy days, Trinbagonians’ poor work ethics have reached crisis proportions.

Educators and sociologists have suggested that part of the problem has to do with the home and society. Islam as a whole pushes Muslims towards a disciplined and productive lifestyle. Islam promotes focus, purpose and ambition, and no Muslim should be stagnant in their deen, their livelihood or any other aspect of their lives.

THE SOLUTION Studies show that a culture shock is the only way to create full societal reform. There are, however, progressive ways to start improving moral and ethical codes, and it starts with you. Below are four simple and effective ways to create the change needed in society: 1. The Prophet [saw] left behind a comprehensive code of behaviour that all Muslims should make effort to learn about. Through training and implementation of the Prophetic advice, we as a society need to continuously improve ourselves.

2. We need to incorporate self-introspection and sincere du’ā for Allah to rectify our affairs. A simple du’ā by the Messenger of Allah :

‫سحَأل ي ِ ن ِ دْها َو َ ّ ُم َه ّللا‬ ْ ‫ ِ قا َلْخألا ِ َن‬، ‫سحَأل ي ِ ْدهَي ال‬ ْ ‫ا َ ّلإ ا َه ِ َن‬ ‫تنَأ‬ ْ َ ، ‫اَهَئ ِ ّيَس ي ِ ّنَع ْف ِ رْصا َو‬، ‫ا َ ّلإ اَهَئ ِ ّيَس ي ِ ّنَع ُف ِ ْرصَي ال‬ ‫تنَأ‬ ْ َ ‫حيحصلا يف ملسم هجرخ‬ Allahumma ahdinī li-ahsani ‘l-akhlāqi, lā yahdī li ahsanihā illā anta. Wasrif `annī sayyi’ahā, lā yasrifu `annī sayyi’ahā illā anta O Allah guide me to the best of characters for none can guide to it other than You, and deliver me from the worst of characters for none can deliver me from it other than You. 3. A highly effective propellent of culture change is creating a positive environment. Our environment and the people who surround us have a powerful impact on the way we behave. We must ensure that we keep ourselves in the company of righteous and well-mannered people.

4. Lastly, we must adopt the practice of tazkiyyah.

Constant purification of our hearts and nafs is fundamental in the relationship of a Muslim with his Lord. By following this advice, we can truly transform ourselves, add weight to our scales, and leave behind a legacy worth remembering.

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SECTION 2

BEING A TRINI MUSLIM

FINDING YOUR BALANCE Written by: Kerinaa Mohammed

HUMANS, ESPECIALLY US TRINIS, HAVE FOUND IT TYPICAL AND EASY TO ADOPT ‘BAD HABITS’ AND PASS IT OFF AS CULTURAL NORM. WE CHALK UP OUR INEFFICIENCIES AND POOR BEHAVIOUR TO OUR NATURE OF BEING ‘JOKEY’ AND FUNNY PEOPLE.

S

o much so, that all that is needed to forget reality today in this beautiful twin isle, is a good laugh. We have forgotten what our nationality means; it is deep rooted in pride and respect for our country but instead we have made our nationality something to be laughed at and ridiculed. To be a Trini once meant that we were a part of a proud heritage of multinational, multicultural, multiethnic people who fought for their place here, who stood strong in the face of adversity to be free and independent.

That certainly isn’t what we see today in our ‘little slice of paradise’.

As Trini Muslims we find ourselves guilty of these habits and behaviours as well, because after all we are ‘Trinis’ but more than being Trinis we are Muslims – Trini Muslims which compels us to be fair to both our identities. Being ‘Trini’ isn’t a bad thing as long as it doesn’t affect who we are as Muslims.

Trinis are labelled as lawless, ‘doh care’, ‘hot mouth’, ‘limers’, ‘bacchanalists’ and more. Do any of these terms sound like the attributes of a Muslim? In fact, they describe the

exact opposite of what it means to be a Muslim. As Muslims we can still be Trini without falling prey to some of these attributes associated with being a Trini. Here are some things we can practice and some that we should avoid.

TRINI TRAITS THAT ARE (THUMBS UP) SUN SAND AND SEA

This is a Trini favourite and is safe, for the most part, to indulge in. Trinis are known for using beaches and rivers or any body of water for their leisurely activities and this is fine as long as we do so in a respectable and modest manner. Trips to the beaches around the country can help us to see and appreciate the beauty of what Allah has created. The scenic drives allow us to converse with our families and talk about things we would normally be too busy for on a regular day. These leisurely trips can help families connect and build strong bonds and relationships and learn to appreciate what Allah has made apparent and available to us. It is a beautiful benefit of being a ’Trini’ and living on and island surrounded by water.

LAND UP ON PEOPLE DOOR STEP

It is typical of ‘Trinis’ to show up to relatives’ and friends’ homes unannounced or uninvited or as the phrase denotes “land up on people doorstep”, while this is not how things should be done, the act of visiting is very much welcomed and encouraged in Islam. As Muslims we are encouraged to visit the sick and keep ties of kinship and visit our brothers and sisters. There is etiquette to be followed when visiting and respect and candor is required but visiting our neighbours, friends, relatives, members of our community, elders and loved ones are all encouraged in Islam.

COOKING UP A STORM

Trinis love food and by extent love to prepare food, as the phrase goes “Trinis have sweet hand’. Preparing food is great and can have great reward if shared with friends, family and neighbours. We, however, must remember to prepare what is necessary and avoid gluttony and wastage but preparing delicious meals for our families and friends is a Trini tradition that is well received in Islam. Even better is preparing

these delicious meals to give in charity to those who may not have access to food, such as the poor and homeless. Feeding the orphans is also a great way to ‘cook up a storm’ and earn rewards. This is a wonderful Trini tradition that has roots of compassion and giving which are traits that are also foundational to being a good Muslim.

we are. Alhamdulillah (All praise and thanks is due to God) being a person of substance also makes us a better Muslim and closer to our Creator.

through that amber light unscathed or drive illegally on the shoulder of the highway to avoid traffic without being caught. There is a phrase that is paramount in situations like these “Just

LAWLESSNESS

because everyone is doing it does not make it right!” Be the change you want to see in the world and even more convincingly be the right way, do the right thing because it is what is best and because no one ever benefitted in the long run from doing the wrong thing. Let us lead by example because that is what our religion requires of us.

TRINI TRAITS THAT ARE (THUMBS DOWN) WORKING ON TRINI TIME This trait has become recognized worldwide and is the definition of how Trinis function in a “where the wind takes us’ mindset. It is a poor habit and one that does not align with the teachings of Islam.

We have all heard that when a Trini says ten minutes it really means an hour. As funny as that sounds it isn’t from the teachings of our beloved Prophet (saw). We are taught as Muslims to respect people’s time, in fact there is an entire Surah in the Quran dedicated to time and how man is in a state of loss because of it.

We are taught as Muslims to be honest and open and straightforward and to be true to our word. When we say ten minutes we need to be honest with ourselves whether that is in fact true, cater for delays and traffic. It is far better to get there earlier rather than later; this sentiment reminds me of my grandfather who was always early for every invitation especially when it came to Allah.

He was the first or among the first to arrive at the Masjid for Friday prayer and we always got to Islamic gatherings long before it started, in some instances while setup was still happening. As a child I was annoyed by this trait but as an adult I wished I would have understood how much that meant in my youth.

Now this doesn’t mean that if you indicated a specific time and reach later than expected then you’re not a good Muslim; that knowledge is only with Allah. This lesson is meant to help us become better versions of ourselves and ultimately make us better Muslims. These traits can be adopted by anyone to become a better person, someone of value and trustworthiness, it has less to do with Islam and more to do with who

Trinis are often described as lawless and unruly and with merit since we quite often notice last minute seatbelts clicking into place at the site of a police officer, or the hustle of putting on a mandatory mask when approaching a roadblock or the slowing down of the vehicle as we notice the unspoken comradery between drivers flashing lights letting oncoming traffic know that police is timing ahead. This type of behaviour is reminiscent of children who sit still when the teacher is around and the moment they turn their backs they are in uproar and chaos. The worst of them in my opinion is the impatience in traffic, driving illegally on the shoulder and breaking red lights, even the indecision on whether to slow down or speed up at the amber traffic light causes inconveniences which in worst circumstances lead to injury ad death.

As Muslims we are supposed to abide by the laws of the land, not just when the police or persons in authority are looking, because we know that Allah is always looking, and He sees and hears everything. So, we are not fooling anyone but ourselves when we miss getting that ticket or make it

TRINI MENTALITY This one is quite broad but is understood by every person who lives in Trinidad and Tobago. Trini mentality lends itself to being laid back and ‘doh care’, we are a people of a million excuses or as my grandparents used to say, ‘we have a plaster for every wound’. The problem lies with the fact that majority of the times those excuses aren’t true and just that; excuses, and those excuses lead to procrastination and not keeping our word. It is commonplace knowledge that procrastination and lying are from shaytaan, yet because of how often it occurs with us Trinis, it has become second nature.

This habit is killing our sense of self worth and trustworthiness, it is the norm now when someone says something to us, we automatically assume something else because of their previous habits.

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This is an indication of a mindset and a people who are in dire need of change. Think about it for a moment, if you called your parents and told them you would be there in ten minutes, would they expect you in ten minutes or would it be expected that you show up an hour later?

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How many times have you told someone you were coming and then got caught up with something else? How many times have you committed to a deadline and missed it, even worse can you remember how many times you have stuck to an initial deadline? Chances are we can’t and if we can, Alhamdulillah, may Allah preserve that quality in you and make it a means of barakah and khayr in your life.

Aameen.

All in all, like with everything in life, there are pros and cons, good and bad; and like with everything there must be moderation and more importantly accountability. We need to see being Trini as something positive, something that is of benefit to our country and our people; it is our nationality after all.

We need to recreate what it means to be a Trini, let it stand for loyalty, honesty, compassion and strength. Let us stand up against the societal norms of what it means to be a ‘Trini’ and show what being a patriotic Trini means; showcasing the beautiful character of the people who occupy this lovely twin isle.

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s the month of Ramadan greets us once again, we welcome this much anticipated guest with open arms, clean homes, Qur’ans that have been dusted off from the last year, and new clothes prepped to visit the masjid for iftars and taraweeh salah. Yes, it is the time of year we love most as Muslims and it is the time of year when we make the step once again to better ourselves, come closer to Allah and vow to make a change – this year will be different, as we turn over new leaves yet again.

Alhamdulillah. This is by no means an easy feat for most, but we are eternally grateful to Allah for giving us yet another opportunity to change our lives around or simply make improvements to what we were already doing. No doubt a great Mercy from Allah to witness Ramadan once again, as so many we know have not made it this far on this journey with us.

This is what truly matters, the fact that we are constantly engaged in the act of improving ourselves as Muslims, in our acts of worship and in our daily lives.

“Verily, Allah will not change the (good) condition of a people as long as they do not change their state (of goodness) themselves (by committing sins and by being ungrateful and disobedient to Allah)” [Surah Ar Ra’d 13:11] We have forged an identity as being ‘Muslim’, however, do we also have lives and relationships that we identify with outside of being a Muslim? We are parents, children, spouses, leaders, employers, employees, friends, and a host of other labels that categorise who we are. When we look at ourselves in the mirror, do we like what we see staring back at us? Do we separate ourselves into being a ‘Muslim’ and then everything else? Do we become a Muslim when we leave the home by way of our clothing and our speech when we face the world outside the confines of our homes, yet behind closed doors the Muslim identity is stripped away

By Rochelle Flores

and we become our ‘true’ selves? Is our true self someone we love and appreciate?

Should who we really are be a separate entity altogether from our ‘Muslim’ identity, or should our Islam shape, mould, and guide who we are and should be in every single aspect of our lives?

We find ourselves living in a time when everyone and everything around us are portrayed as living a life that seems

perfect to the rest of the world. We are bombarded with standards that many force themselves to live up to, to compete with, to fit into, sometimes at the expense of losing their true identity and at other times, losing their Iman along the way.

While Islam teaches us to strive for excellence, to live our lives trying to be the best version of ourselves, it is by no means encouraging us to live up to supposed perfect worldly standards set by man and what is deemed as their measures for success.

When we look at ourselves in the mirror, do we see the perfect mother, perfect father, son or daughter? Do we see the perfect neighbour and friend? Who do we really see staring back at us? Do we compare what we see in the mirror with who we find on social media? That perfect fitness model or that perfect have-itall-put-together mom? Do we compare ourselves to the one who has all the riches and spends it on the latest and best? Do we compare ourselves to the University student who has so many degrees under their belt, or to the one who holds the highest position in the most successful company? Or do we simply see ‘the person whom Allah Created to Worship Him alone, with flaws and imperfections, because it is not the physical appearance that Allah looks at but the heart?’ No

SECTION 3

CHANGE YOUR

doubt we are not perfect, we commit sins, we are impatient and sometimes unkind. We are sometimes stingy and jealous of others, uncharitable and lazy. We sometimes mistreat the family we have at home and are the best to those we meet outside. We certainly aren’t perfect because Allah never created us to be. We are human and we make mistakes. Yet the best among us who commit sins, are the ones who sincerely turn to Allah in repentance.

Abu Ayyub al-Ansari and Abu Huraira narrated: Allah’s Messenger (saw) said, “By Him in Whose Hand is my life, if you were not to commit sin, Allah would sweep you out of existence and He would replace (you by) those people who would commit sin and seek forgiveness from Allah, and He would have pardoned them.”

(Sahih Muslim) The way we see ourselves should be through the lens of accountability, through the lens of reflection, through the lens of change – change for the better, reflection on what our purpose in life is and accountability for the things we say and do. Who we are should not be separate from who we are as Muslims, because Islam came to rectify the moral, social, economic, political, cultural and material aspects of our lives. It came to teach us how we are supposed to live our lives down to the minutest of details, so why then should we separate our lives into Muslim and Human?

Our lives should revolve around Islam, and not Islam revolving around our lives, where we become Muslim only when the need arises. Islam should dictate every aspect of our lives both inside and outside of the home or workplace and anywhere else we find ourselves. We should be able to look ourselves in the mirror and realise that who we see staring back at us, isn’t just a reflection focussing on the physical appearance, rather, it should reflect someone who is striving to better than yesterday, someone who isn’t afraid to be Muslim inside and out, someone who knows that Allah loves them and someone who’s only goal should be for the aakhirah.

Make no mistake, this someone, is someone we will love no matter what life throws our way.

SECTION 3

HOW TO LOVE FOR THE SAKE OF ALLAH [SWT]

LOVING FOR THE SAKE OF ALLAH IS A WAY TO BEAUTIFY OUR CHARACTER AND EARN REWARD OUTSIDE OF OUR OBLIGATORY ACTS OF WORSHIP. THIS ARTICLE WILL HIGHLIGHT A SIMPLE AND EFFECTIVE WAY OF BEING A GOD PERSON AND ULTIMATELY A GOOD MUSLIM, LOVING FOR THE SAKE OF ALLAH Written by: Hafsa Tanveer

H

ave you seen a passionate gardener, who not only looks after the plants, but also talks and sings to them? He is always concerned about the plants’ health and yield. He ties the weak stems to a metal rod in order to make them upright and strong.

He uses herbicides to diminish undesirable plants which harms his garden. Whenever he sees the feeble plant becoming productive, he is filled with happiness, gives thanks to Allah swt for it and shares the fruit with his family and friends.

Well, you are the gardener of your own body and soul; the knowledge you feed your body is the water and fertilizers, which are essential for the soul, fasting and consciousness of Allah swt are the herbicides for eradicating desires, the metal rod is the food and drink for strengthening the healthy body. When the weak plant is well taken care of, the fruits would be loving yourself and others for the sake of Allah swt.

We need to understand the need to fulfill “love for me”. Loving ourselves first might seem a little egotistical, but if the intention is to please Allah swt, to serve people and dif-

fuse goodness merely for Him, then it won’t be egoistic at all!

A few days back, I questioned my youngest seven year old sister, who she loves the most, and gave her three options – Ammi (mom), Papa (dad) or yourself. I expected her answer to be either mom or dad but to my amazement, she replied, “I love myself very much.” Surprised, I asked her, “Why is that so?” She gave me a cheeky smile and said, “It’s because that if I love myself first, I can become a good doctor and then take care of them when they grow old.” Her reply made me contemplate deeply, about how loving yourself does good to others. Even as a seven year old, she knew that if she completes her studies first and accomplishes her goal in life, she could love and give proper care to others.

Though the gardener has a deep love for his garden, he still has to take actions for its betterment. That’s how true love works; a few restrictions, precautions and improvements are necessary and then, ultimately we rejoice at its success.

WHY SHOULD WE LOVE OURSELVES FOR TH SAKE OF ALLAH SWT?

I intend to visit my content with what Allah brother in this town. swt has given you, and you The angel said: Have embrace your flaws and you done any favor work to better them. Loving yourself means that you To love others, we must are able to be grateful for first love ourselves; and your blessings, and wish the more we love others the same for your fellow for the sake of Allah swt, brothers and sisters. You our love for ourselves understand that you are for the sake of Allah swt valuable to the ummah also increases. Thus, it’s and that your actions can important to know if we bring benefit to society. love ourselves enough or not. Prof. Hendricks, Ph.D., Feelings of bitterness and jealousy can never enter a leader in the fields of relationship transformation your heart, so you are able to love others easily and and body-mind therapies, sincerely. says that if throughout the day, every day, we find WHY SHOULD WE LOVE ourselves silently criticizing OTHERS FOR THE SAKE others, then it’s the biggest to him? He said: No, I OF ALLAH SWT? clue that we are not loving have no desire except To start with, there is an ourselves enough. to visit him because I invaluable reward, as Allah Early Muslims were love him for the sake of swt says He loves those cognizant of this fact and Allah, the Exalted, and who love others for His Hamdun al-Qassar ra had Glorious. Thereupon sake, and if Allah swt, Al said, the angel said: I am Wadud (The Loving) starts If a friend among your a messenger to you loving a person, imagine friends errs, make from Allah swt (to the prolific rewards and seventy excuses for inform you) that Allah eternal contentment which them. If your hearts will be honored to him, not swt loves you as you are unable to do this, only in the dunya but also love him (for His sake). then know that the in the hereafter. Prophet [Sahih Muslim] shortcoming is in your Muhammad saw said, own selves [Shu’ab alIsn’t this awe-inspiring?

A man set out to visit a Iman] By loving someone for the Loving yourself is not brother (in faith) in another sake of Allah swt, we can about being selfish or gain the love of the Highest town and Allah swt sent arrogant. Loving and an angel on his way. When and which love is better accepting yourself will the man met the angel, the than His? ensure that you are a latter asked him: Where do happy and healthy person.

HOW TO LOVE YOURSELF It means that you are you intend to go? He said: FOR THE SAKE OF ALLAH SWT 1. Keep the soul alive by learning more and more Knowledge is the appetite for our mind and soul;

it is alive and healthy once fed, but stops nourishing if the diet is ignored. Allah swt says,

“It is only those who have knowledge among his servants that fear Allah.”

[Qur’an: Chapter 35, Verse 28] There is a direct link between knowledge and fearing Allah swt, the more we gain the fruits of knowledge, the more we will fear Allah swt, which eventually will lead us to maximize our good deeds and build a strong foundation.

2. A healthy mind dwells in a healthy body Knowledge, soul, and body are directly proportional to one another; if needs of two are fulfilled but the other one is incomplete or poorly done, all of them are negatively affected. Body definitely needs a lot of exercise and activeness to be agile and in shape.

3. Be a person others can rely on The Prophet saw said, The believers, in their mutual friendship, mercy, and affection, are like one body: if any part of it complains, the rest of the body will also stay awake in pain. [Sahih Muslim]

We have to make sure that if anyone is in need of help, we have to be there to support them. This will eventually increase mutual love, respect and further understanding.

There are two types of people who are unforgettable: the ones who help us in times of adversity and the ones

swt and pray to Him swt to show you the right way to respond.

2. Promote the greeting of peace The Messenger of Allah swt said, “By Him in Whose Hand is my life! You will not enter Jannah until you believe, and you will not believe until you love one

who leave us in our downfall. We need to try to be the ones who helps and cares in the times where others’ need us.

LOVING OTHERS FOR THE SAKE OF ALLAH SWT

another. Shall I inform you of something which, if you do, you will love one another? Promote greetings amongst yourselves.”

[Jami` at-Tirmidhi]

1. Make excuses for people Think about your mistakes and faults, how many slips and mistakes we’ve committed, and how we expect for immediate forgiveness and good treatment. So be the person who forgives fast, and only thinks about the positive qualities others’ possess. With dua and sincere intention, Allah swt will grant us the ability to ignore negative suspicions and help us master this problem. I’ve found that Sr. Yasmin Mogahed, author, said: “Sometimes the reason we can’t forgive is that we don’t see our own flaws. We spend our lives holding onto the wrongs others have done to us, but we don’t see all the wrongs we have also done to others.”

Allah swt says, “Indeed, those who fear Allah – when an impulse touches them from Satan, they remember [Him] and at once they have insight.”

[Qur’an: Chapter 7, Verse 201] Whenever you get annoyed by someone, seek refuge in Allah swt from Satanic whispers, repent to Him

It is more commonplace nowadays to not give the Islamic greeting to strangers, and even those whom you know, due to embarrassment or bad blood between people.

Whatever your personal feelings are, remember that giving salam fosters love and good will, because you are actively wishing peace for that person. Remember, Allah swt says, “They will not hear therein [Paradise] ill speech or commission of sin – Only a saying: “Peace, peace.” [Quran: Chapter 56, Verse 25-16] Don’t we want to be of those in Jannah who give the greeting of peace to others? Therefore, spread the greeting of Paradise now, and in sha Allah the reward will be great.

3. Pray for others in their absence The Messenger of Allah saw said, “By the One in Whose hand is the soul of Muhammad, none of you has believed until he loves for his brother what he loves for himself of goodness.” [Sunan an-Nasa’i] How can we develop this kind

of attitude? Make a lot of dua (supplications) for others in their absence. This will develop pure love for others in your heart. Also, try to learn about others people’s situations and their wants and needs. This will help you understand why they behave in a particular

manner and lead you to make specific dua for their hardships.

4. Let them know you love them Many a time we don’t verbally express how much we love someone, but this is an important thing to do. Anas ibn Malik ra said that a man was with the Prophet saw when another man passed by.

The first man, “O Messenger saw of Allah swt, indeed I truly love this man.” The Prophet saw asked him, “Have you let him know that?” He said, “No.” The Prophet saw said, “Tell him.” He caught up with him and told him, “Truly I love you for the sake of Allah swt,” and the man said, “May Allah swt love you who loves me for His sake.” [Sunan Abi Dawud] So you express your love to your spouse, your children, your parents, and your brothers and sisters!

Simple words will increase love in the hearts, and you will be known to Allah swt and amongst people, that you are a loving person.

Loving for the sake of Allah, whether ourselves or others, is a great way to be a good person and a good Muslim because Allah loves those who love for His sake.

‘Ammar ibn Yasir, may Allah be pleased with him, said:

Whoever has three qualities will have completed the faith: fairness from yourself to others, offering peace to the world, and spending in charity even while poor.

Source: Musannaf Ibn Abī Shaybah 30440, Grade: Sahih

SECTION 3

HOW TO BEAUTIFY

YOUR HEART & CHARACTER WRITTTEN BY: SAMEERA HAMEED – PRODUCTIVE MULISM

The Prophet saw said, “O Allah You have made my creation perfect, so make my moral characteristics also be the best.” [Bulugh al-Maram] There is so much to learn from this simple act of the Prophet Muhammad saw; from remembering Allah swt at all times, to the fact that He didn’t ask for more beauty to his features, rather he praised Allah swt for what he already has, and then he focused on asking Allah swt to beautify his character in the best way.

There has always been an emphasis on beautifying our character in our religion. The Prophet saw said: “Nothing is heavier on the believer’s Scale on the Day of Judgment than good character.” [Jami’ at-Tirmidhi] ‘Abu Huraira reported: The Messenger of Allah saw, said, “Allah does not look at your figures, nor at your attire but He looks at your hearts and accomplishments.”’

[Sahih Muslim] So, focusing consciously every day on improving and beautifying the state of the heart helps us attain good character and increases our overall productivity.

Here are some tips to help you do just that.

BEAUTIFYING THE INNER THOUGHTS 1. Pay attention to/discipline your inner thoughts Allah swt says, “And We have already created man and know what his soul whispers to him, and We are closer to him than [his] jugular vein’”[Quran, Chapter 50, Verse 16] “And conceal your speech or publicize it; indeed, He is Knowing of that within the breasts.’ [Quran: Chapter 67, Verse 13] Isn’t it amazing that even the thoughts that occur in our minds are known to Allah swt! Be it good or bad, Allah swt knows. Our mind is like a reel, constantly playing thoughts in our head. It is our duty to play it and control it steering it to the right direction.

Many times, after an incident, for example, we tend to have assumptions about the incident or the person involved; it could be as simple as your employee breaking your favorite teacup. What is the immediate

thought that comes after? ‘Why did she have it the first place? Was she intending to steal it? Couldn’t she have been more careful if she was handling it? But do we have good thoughts like, ‘never mind, it’s just a teacup.’

This is a simple example of many incidences in our day to day lives. We think a lot, and we add to our thoughts without realizing.

People are in either our ‘bad list’ or our ‘good list’. When we keep adding these thoughts to our bad list for the people we think we don’t like, we are only increasing on our own mental burden. It is in these times, we need to look for the good in people, and forget their wrong because this only imprisons us and we chain ourselves to those miseries. We need to unlock and free ourselves so that we can move on. And only those who are busy looking at their own mistakes will be capable of doing this.

Has it ever happened to you that one action of someone disturbs your entire day? Why does this happen? We let it consume our thoughts, constantly delve into it and are unable to focus on the rest of our tasks. Sometimes, it even affects our mood and enthusiasm for other tasks that are irrelevant to this matter! Unload this burden first, and see what a difference it makes to your day.

When we feel accountable to Allah swt for the thoughts we have within, we consciously judge the matter with wisdom; does this deserve our negativity in the first place? Instead of holding grudges and having misunderstandings, if we practiced husn ad dhan (having good thoughts), it would make our hearts lighter, and assist us in focusing on other aspects of life, hence, increasing our productivity, happiness, and mental wellbeing.

As Muslims, we have a bigger purpose in life, and so we must not waste our time on indulging in little matters, but rather move on and keep working for the sake of Allah

swt; rest assured, Allah swt rewards us and takes care of the matter in the most beautiful of ways, His way. This is only possible if we clear our hearts of hatred, anger, and negativity and focus on beautifying it with good thoughts, and positivity.

In addition, this not only increases our productivity but also improves our relationships with fellow beings and relatives.

2. Remember the good in others and experience Allah’s Name AshShakoor That moment when someone angers you or tests your patience, remember the good in them. This reminds me of Allah’s swt beautiful name AshShakoor– The Most Appreciative The Most Grateful. Allah swt says, “That He may give them in full their rewards and increase for them of His bounty. Indeed, He is Forgiving and Appreciative. “[Qur’an: Chapter 35, Verse 30] What does Allah swt have to be grateful for when He is the One to whom we are all grateful? Allah swt calls Himself Ash-Shakoor – The Most Appreciative, The Most Grateful, the Rewarder of good deeds. He is the One who gives abundantly, in response to little. He appreciates the smallest of deeds with unlimited appreciation. He even appreciates our intentions!

He is ever Appreciative of every emotion you go through for His sake; when being tested and you are patient for His sake, He is appreciative.

When in blessing, if you are grateful, He increases you in favor. If Allah swt , our Creator and Sustainer is so Appreciative, how grateful do we humans have to be?

Another way we can live with His name, Ash-Shakoor, is by asking Him to help us not to be ungrateful to others and ourselves. Our parents have done innumerable favors upon us since birth, and yet in that one moment when they don’t agree with us, we rage with fury and anger and forget all our gratefulness to them. Ask Allah swt by His name, Ash-Shakoor, to help you never be ungrateful to those who deserve your appreciation, even at moments when they test your patience; just as you

would want Allah swt to appreciate ALL of your efforts, even when you make a mistake BEAUTIFYING THE ACTIONS 1. Be conscious of every deed, and increase in small acts of kindness “[He] who created death and life to test you [as to] which of you is best in deed – and He is the Exalted in Might, the Forgiving” [Qur’an, Chapter 67, Verse 2] The purpose of the entire creation is mentioned in this one verse – it is to test us which of us is ‘best in deeds’.

When we tend to focus on our own mistakes rather than others, we become conscious of all our deeds.

Once we purify a vessel – here the vessel is our heart – we add good and beautiful things into it. So, add to your scales by beautifying every simple act in the best of ways and with excellence. Simple examples would be, easing the work for your workers with a smile, helping parents in little things without them asking you, or verbally forgiving someone when they have wronged you.

Ihsan (excellence) in deeds will purify the heart, make it feel lighter, and again, help us remain focused on our tasks. This is the ultimate aid in productivity, as you have a clear mind, renewed intentions and happier heart to complete your day-to-day work.

2. Let the Qur’an expand your day and increase it in blessings Believe in the words of Allah swt when He says, How often have you wished for more time during the day? The Qur’an miraculously expands your time. The Qur’an is the greatest form of dhikr (remembrance).

Allah swt says “And this [Qur’an] is a Book We have revealed [which is] blessed (Mubarak), so follow it and fear Allah that you may receive mercy.”

[Qur’an, Chapter 6, Verse 155] Allah swt describes the Qur’an as Mubarak, the one that has barakah.

The more we include the Qur’an in our lives, the more barakah there is during the day! All it needs is your attention, conscious continuous attention every

single day be it even for 10 minutes (Make that the daily minimum!)

If half an hour on Facebook passes as a breeze, then what about ten minutes to give to reciting the Qur’an for rewards, blessings, expansion of heart and time and inner peace?

Simply ponder over the verses, or read a commentary, or recite, or listen but give ten minutes minimum to the Qur’an and watch it unfold its secrets to you. Giving time to the Qur’an keeps you connected to Allah swt, making it more likely that you will consciously avoid sinning.

It also aids in clearing our minds of unnecessary things, hence achieving clarity and peace. The Qur’an is light, and when this light enters the heart, it will be focused and steered in the right direction, leading it to achieve its purpose in life.

3. Consciously make dhikr a daily habit and reap the fruits of remembrance An additional way to beautify our minds is to constantly remember Allah swt with other forms of remembrance. We learn from the seerah of the Prophet Muhammad saw that there was not a moment he would not remember Allah swt.

There are duas/athkaar for every moment, from sighting the new moon to feeling a breeze of wind. When we train our minds to keep on reflecting on the signs of Allah swt, on His love and wisdom in every situation, our minds become accustomed to good thoughts, leading to a lighter, more beautiful heart.

It is worth mentioning that AbudDarda ra reported: The Messenger of Allah (saw) said,

“Shall I not inform you of the best of your actions which are the purest to your Rubb, which exalt you to the high ranks, which are more efficacious than spending gold and silver (in charity), and better for you than you should encounter your enemies whom you will smite their necks and they will smite your necks?” They said, “Certainly.” He (‫ )ﷺ‬said, “Remembrance of Allah the Exalted.” [At-Tirmidhi]

Al Aqsa

Dome of t he Rock

Exalted is He who took His Servant by night from al-Masjid al-haram to al-Masjid al- Aq§a, whose surroundings We have blessed, to show him of Our signs. Indeed, He is the Hearing, the Seeing.

(17:1)

Zaid Ibn Thabit (ra) narrated: “We were with the Messenger of Allah (saw) collecting the Qur’an on pieces of cloth, then the Messenger of Allah (saw) said: ‘Tuba [a prayer for glad tidings] ]is for Ash-Sham.’ So we said: ‘Why is that O Messenger of Allah?’ He said: ‘Because the angels of Ar-Rahman spread their wings over it.’”

[Tirmidhi]

Maymunah Bint Sa’d (ra) relates that she asked the Prophet (saw): “O Messenger of Allah, tell us the legal injunction about (visiting) Bayt alMuqaddas. The Messenger of Allah said: go and pray there. All the cities at that time were effected by war. If you cannot visit it and pray there, then send some oil to be used in the lamps.”

[Abu Dawud]

Abu Darda (ra) relates that the Prophet (saw) said: “A prayer in Makkah (Ka’bah) is worth 1000,000 times (reward), a prayer in my Masjid (Madinah) is worth 1,000 times, and a prayer in Al-Aqsa Sanctuary is worth 500 times more reward than anywhere else” [Bayhaqi]

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This year’s recipe section is brought to you by Kerina’s Kitchen with some delicious and healthy recipes with the Sunnah of our beloved Prophet (pbuh) in mind. Here are some that you can find in the upcoming pages.

Talbina is a porridge made from barley which has many health benefits. The Messenger (sallallaahu alayhi wasallam) also said: “The talbina gives rest to the heart of the patient and makes it active and relieves some of his sorrow and grief.” [Saheeh al-Bukhaari (5325)].

This recipe was adapted from tiffinandteaofficial.com and tried and tested in Kerina’s Kitchen.

Nabidh is a drink that is simply made from dates and water and is a Sunnah of our Prophet Muhammad (Salallahu Alayhi Wasallam). It has many nutritional benefits and cures including stomach acid and indigestion and is often used in Kerina’s Kitchen with great success. Alhamdulillah!

Watermelon, Cucumber Salad with delicious accompaniments to keep you hydrated during the month of Ramadaan. The Prophet (pbuh) would regularly consume cucumber and watermelon with dates for their cooling and hydrating effects.

Chocolate covered, stuffed dates which isn’t exactly from the Sunnah except that the Prophet (pbuh) often consumed dates because of their beneficial properties and accessibility.

Also included are some healthy ad delicious recipes which help us take care of our body which is amanaat from Allah. These keep you filled and are the perfect portions after a long day of fast.

• Stuffed Bell Peppers • Roasted Lemon Garlic Chicken

Enjoy and lookout for more big and exciting things from Kerina’s Kitchen.

RECIPE CORNER

BARLEY PORRIDGE

TALBINA

STUFFED BELL PEPPERS • • • • • • •

6 bell peppers any color, or a combination of colors 2 teaspoons olive oil 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (I prefer lean) 1/2 cup onion finely chopped 2 teaspoons garlic minced 1 1/2 cups cooked rice salt and pepper to taste

• • • • • •

15 ounce can tomato sauce 1 tsp brown sugar 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning/ oregano 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese shredded 2 tablespoons parsley chopped cooking spray

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Coat a large baking dish with cooking spray.

2. Slice the tops off the peppers and remove the ribs and seeds inside.

3. Place the peppers cut side down in the baking dish. Add 1 1/2 cups of water to the dish.

4. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.

5. While the peppers are cooking, prepare the filling. Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.

6. Add the ground beef and season with salt and pepper.

7. Cook for 5-6 minutes, breaking up the meat with a spatula, until meat is cooked through.

8. Add the onion to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes or until softened. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

9. Add the rice, tomato sauce and Italian seasoning. Stir to combine.

Stir in 1/2 cup cheese and salt and pepper to taste.

10. Remove the peppers from the oven and drain off the water. Turn the peppers over and fill each one with the beef mixture.

11. Top each pepper with the remaining cheese. Cover and bake for 20 minutes. Uncover and bake for another 10 minutes or until cheese is melted and browned and peppers are tender.

12. Sprinkle with parsley, then serve.

WITH GRILLED HONEY DATES Talbina • •

•

2 tbsp Barley Flour Heaped 175 - 250 ml Milk of choice or Water and adjust according to your preference. I like a thinner consistency so I tend to use more liquid.

1 tbsp Honey or Maple Syrup/ brown sugar can be used

Optional but recommended add ins • • • • •

¼ tsp Ground Cardamom ½ tsp Ground Cinnamon ¼ tsp Ground Cloves ½ tsp Ground Ginger Splash of essence

Grilled Honey Dates - Optional • • •

2 Dates Pitted 1 tsp Honey Pinch Salt

Instructions •

•

Whisk the flour into the milk in a small pot over medium, low heat. Add ground Spices. Simmer for around 5 minutes whisking throughout.

Remove from heat and sweeten with honey.

Grilled Honey Dates • •

Add the dates to a oven tray and brown for a minute on each side.

Drizzle with honey and add the salt.

Add to the Talbina.

BAKED GARLIC LEMON ROSEMARY CHICKEN

PREP

COOKING

READY IN

15 MIN

45 MIN

1 Hour

Ingredients

Method

•

1. Transfer all of the ingredients to a large zip lock back and seal. Shake the bag around well until the ingredients are well-distributed over the chicken.

2. Marinate at least 1 hour, up to 8.

3. When you’re ready to bake, preheat the oven to 375 degrees F and transfer the chicken to a large casserole dish.

4. Bake for 35 minutes, then raise the oven temperature to 425 degrees F and bake another 20 to 30 minutes, or until the skin reaches desired level of crisp.

5. Serve with your favorite side dishes, and enjoy!

• • • • • • •

3.5 to 4 lbs bone-in skin on chicken thighs 2 Tbsp avocado oil 1 lemon, zested 3 Tbsp fresh lemon juice 3 Tbsp fresh garlic, minced 2 Tbsp fresh rosemary, minced 1 ½ tsp Kerina’s Kitchen house seasoning 1 tsp sea salt

NABIDH

WATERMELON SALAD WITH FETA

Sunnah Meals

Sunnah Meals Nabidh is a Prophetic drink that is cleansing, alkalising and has many other benefits. It was one of the favorite drinks of the beloved Prophet Muhammad [saw]

Ingredients 7 Dates I use Medjoul because they are generally larger 250 ml water Directions Soak the dates in water overnight in a large cup or jar with a lid.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 3 tablespoons lime juice ½ garlic clove, minced ¼ teaspoon sea salt

For the salad 5 cups cubed watermelon 1 heaping cup diced cucumber deseeded ¼ cup thinly sliced red onions ⅓ cup crumbled feta cheese 1 avocado, cubed ⅓ cup torn mint or basil leaves ½ jalapeño pepper, thinly sliced, Sea salt Instructions

Put into the fridge. Remove from the fridge half an hour before you plan to drink it so it can come to room temperature. Drink within 3 days.

Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, garlic and salt.

Arrange the watermelon, cucumber, and red onions on a large plate or platter. Drizzle with half the dressing.

Top with the feta, avocado, mint, and pepper, if using, and drizzle with remaining dressing. Season to taste and serve.

Y H T L A HE ipe

Y H T L A HE cipe

c

e New R

e

New R

PEANUT BUTTER STUFFED CHOCOLATE COVERED DATES PREP

TOTAL

Method

1. Fill each date with peanut butter. I only use about ½ 25 MIN 25 MIN teaspoon of peanut butter for small dates and ¾-1 Ingredients teaspoon for large dates.

• 12 Dates , pitted Place them on a tray/plate • 4 tablespoons Peanut and put them in the freezer Butter for 10-15 minutes • 7 ounces Dark Chocolate 2. Meanwhile: Finely chop the , 70% Cocoa Content (200 chocolate and set aside. grams) Place a sheet of baking • A few Sprigs of Dried parchment paper over a Lavender , optional chopping board large enough to hold a wire rack 3. Melt the chocolate over a pot

4.

5.

6.

7.

of simmering water (double boiler). Dip each date in the melted chocolate and transfer onto a wire rack (or aluminum foil or baking parchment).

Optional: Sprinkle with dried edible lavender.

Chill them in the fridge for 30 minutes or until the chocolate is set.

Optional: Drizzle the chocolate covered dates with melted chocolate (use either a fork or Ziploc bag).

Enjoy!

In collaboration with Arcane Arabic Calligraphy & Design

MyDeen Club

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Dates

Water

Chicken

Rice

Bread

Pizza

Potatoes

Grapes

Juice

Fries

Milk

Watermelon

Dates

Water

Chicken

Rice

Bread

Pizza

Potatoes

Grapes

Juice

Fries

Milk

Watermelon

Dates

Water

Chicken

Rice

Bread

Pizza

Potatoes

Grapes

Juice

Fries

Milk

Watermelon

Who is Allah /?

“And He is Allah, [the only Diety] in the heavens and the earth. He knows your secret and what you make public, and He knows what you earn (good or bad)” [Surah 6: Verse 3] Allah / is aware of all things in the past, present, and FUTURE. He / is the One who Knows and has always Known and will always Know. He Knows what is on the land and what is in the Sea. Not a single leaf falls without Him knowing about it.

How can you live by His name?

It starts by realizing that Allah’s / presence is all around you. Understand that he Knows EVERYTHING including what you are going through in life, whether it is good or bad.

Make sure you always ask Him for help and keep thanking Him for all the blessings He gave you and your family.

Pop Quiz Answer (T) for True or (F) for False to the following questions.

A) _ Fasting is the only pillar of Islam.

B) _ There are 12 months in the Islamic Calendar.

C) _Ramadan is the 10th month of the Islamic Calendar.

D) _ Fasting begins at dusk and ends at dawn.

E) _ Iftar is good for you in the morning.

F) _ Fasting is for our own benefits.

2) Describe what the month of fasting means to you.

Brainstorm with your parents, siblings and/or friends.

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68 | IHSAAN | ISSUE 6