(IP)- This year is known as the International Year of Natural Fibres 2009, in honor of the virtues of cotton, wool, silk and linen/flax among other lesser-known varieties of cloth derived from animal and plant sources.
In the Medicine of the Prophet, Ibn Qayyim Al Jawziyya quotes Al- Raazee on the properties of silk, in particular, which is used for women: “Raw silk (ibreesim) is warmer than flax but cooler than cotton; it nourishes the flesh. Every coarse clothing makes the body lean and the skin firm, and so the reverse is true.”
Al Jawziyya continues: “Clothing is of three kinds: one kind that heats and warms the body, one kind that warms it but does not heat it, and one kind that neither heats nor warms it. There is none that heats but does not warm it, for whatever heats it is even more likely to warm it. Clothing of hair and woollen material [like sheep’s wool, alpaca, camel hair, angora and cashmere] heats and warms, while clothing of linen, silk and cotton warms but does not heat. For garments of linen are cold and dry, those of wool are warm and dry, those of cotton are of moderate warmth, and those of silk are softer and have less heat than cotton.
“The author of the Minhaaj said: Clothing from silk does not heat as cotton does, but it is moderate. All soft and smooth clothing is less heating to the body, gives less aid to the dissolving of such matters as are to be dissolved, and is more suitable for wearing in summer and in hot lands.”
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations touts natural fibres above synthetic varieties as fabrics made from plant fibre or animal hair have served to boost the economies of economically developing countries. Some 30 million tons of natural fibres are farmed from animals and plants across the globe. The biggest crop is cotton, with an annual production of some 25 million tons, while 2.2 million tons of wool is produced every year in almost 100 countries, with Australia accounting for roughly a quarter of that. There is also flax, sisal, henequen, coir (from the husk of the coconut,) and hemp (although, for Muslims, even the form of hemp purified of the THC intoxicant should not be used on the head.) Jute, which comes from the skin of Corchorus plants, is the world’s second biggest fibre crop (2.3-2.8 million tons, main producers are India and Bangladesh) but is worth far less than cotton, or wool. Hafez Ghanem, FAO Assistant Director-General for Social and Economic Development, said production of animal and vegetable fibres is a major agricultural sector, worth some $40 billion annually to the world’s farmers and, in some cases, accounts for up to 50 percent of a developing country’s exports.
Care for your clothes, naturally.
In addition to the natural detergent formulas Hakimah Raziya A. Mu’min gives above, as a natural Islamic medicine practitioner, the hakimah also has added a few tips on the preferred use of natural fabrics, and ways to maintain the freshness and life of your clothing without the use of chemical laundering products.
“Wool and cotton fibres which are in turn made into muslin, terry cloth, corduroy, and flannel are the best to use for clothing. Synthetic fabrics hold bacteria longer, and can contribute to yeast infections. Laundry detergents are full of perfumes, petroleum, and chemicals; they can also be very expensive. The same applies to perfumed body soaps. You can grate a bar of regular Castile soap, and use it for laundry soap, adding borax and baking soda. Stain removers can be made using 2 tbsp. cream of tartar and water, making a paste of the two and rubbing into stain. Allow it to dry before washing. For clothes brighteners, add 1 to 2 tablespoons Epsom salts to the wash cycle. Add ¼ cup baking soda to your wash cycle as a fabric softener, or a ¼ cup or less borax. A ¼ cup of vinegar added to the wash cycle will prevent static cling.

Sources: FAO, Hakimah Razia A. Mu’min

By Hk. Razia A. Mumin

We have come a long way in modern times, in regard to comforts and medical wonders and technology. Everything is quick and efficient. We live in a developed nation that is constantly trying to improve, and upgrade itself. We rush through life: to school, work, meetings, and business. Our day is well planned and set to fit into society much the same as every other American. Because Allah, the Most High, has pre-ordained that we maintain ourselves and our families, as well as be law abiding citizens, we as Muslims do this with pride.
However, through all of the hustle and bustle we occasionally need to stop and reflect. We should slow down, and using a microscope, look at our lives. Are we happy? Are we really doing what is expected of us? Whose standard of living are we living up to? Can we live healthier on our present income? Are we ever going to be self sufficient? (Do we have a choice?)
We can do better.
Our ancestors knew how to be self sufficient. In days of old, work consumed their time much the same way it does ours; however, their work consisted largely of manual labor. People were cutting wood, carrying water, tending the fire, cooking, farming, sewing the clothing, home schooling their children, tending gardens, raising animals, making soap, and doing community service. Although their life expectancy was much shorter than ours, and they didn’t have half of the modern conveniences that we have now, they definitely did a lot more work than we do now. We need to practice some olden day methods because, soon, there may be no way of getting around it. With the global economy the way it is, the olden days might just catch up to us again! It is better to be prepared.
If we want to survive the coming years on our own two feet, we need to pay more attention to our ancestor’s way of life. Read about them; do serious research. We have to incorporate naturalist ways of living and share our ideas and views with each other. We need to take a crash course, and act on it quickly.
We need to purchase organic seeds. Why organic? Because the quality of the finished product is healthier and easier to digest. After harvesting your produce this year, let some of your crops go to seed and save the seeds for the next planting season. Generally, you should plan your gardens early in the winter. As soon as the ground is workable, work it! Start your seedlings in your homes.
Start gathering and stocking the sorts of foods that will hold you over for long periods of time, such as: olive oil, ghee, chapatti flour, oatmeal, vermicelli, barley, garlic, onions, basmati rice, honey, nuts and dried fruits. We need to learn how to truly be self sufficient, and we need to do it now.
American Indians were self sufficient; they lived off of the land. They bartered and traded and made their own clothing, food, and medicine. People all over the world have been self sufficient for centuries. The consumer society that many Americans live in is now out of control. We need to refocus.
Here is a basic list of things you’ll need to get started.
1. First Aid- You can never be prepared enough. Have these on hand: surgical tape, gauze, du’a water, white cotton material, cotton balls, castor oil, white cotton wash clothes (collect them; you can’t have enough), peroxide, walnut powder (fungal problems and oral diseases), turmeric (antiseptic), cayenne pepper (bleeding, open wounds), charcoal powder (poison ingestion), baking soda (bee stings).
3. Herbs- If you don’t have the herbs below, plant them. Most of them are perennial and can save you a visit to the doctor’s office: amla powder (urinary tract infection, blood purifier), burdock, walnut powder, yarrow (fever, sore throat), elderberry, red clover, catnip, neem powder (anti viral, contains sulfur and penicillin), peppermint, cayenne, turmeric, alum powder (rotting and breaking teeth, tooth ache), licorice, cloves, myrrh, aloe, echinacea, fenugreek, plantain, horsetail, and raspberry, comfrey, and witch hazel.
4. Tools- A part of self sufficiency, you must collect them and keep them clean: hoe, splitting axe, pick ax, chainsaw, generator, cast iron cookware, rake, garden fork, shovel, wheel barrel, buckets, ladders, snow shovels, hammer, nails, hoses, work gloves, boots, hard hat waterproof outdoor clothing, flint rock, funnel and a watering can.
5. Essential oils- these are important also; if you can find a pure source it would be helpful to have: lemon, peppermint, lavender, rose, ginger and eucalyptus on hand.
6. Seeds to purchase- Remember organic is without a doubt the best. If you are having a problem finding them on or offline don’t let it stop you from planting. Perennials like asparagus will serve you for many years, Allah willing.
7. Skills to learn and teach-Basket weaving, sewing, knitting, fishing, crocheting, animal husbandry, building, gardening, car repair, shoe making and soap making.
8. Cleaning supplies- Castile soap is the cleanest of soaps and is multi purpose. You can grate a bar of Castile soap, add 1 egg, 1tsp olive oil, and 1tsp lemon juice and have an enriching shampoo. The following are a few inexpensive recipes for general cleaning. Dish-washing detergent: Mix together 2tbsp. baking soda and 2tbsp. borax. Add very hot water, then cold for washing dishes. Window cleaner: Mix 1 flat club soda (16oz) with 2 tbsp. baking soda and 2tbsp. borax. Mix ingredients together and put in spray bottle.

–original–
Health and Survival tips for 2009
(Take the time to be healthy
We have come a long way in 14, 00 years, in regards to modern comforts and medical wonders. We have seen lots of changes in travel, broadcasting, massive building, and production. Everything is quick and efficient. We live in a developed nation that is constantly trying to improve, and upgrade itself. We rush through life, to School, work, meetings, and business. Our day is planned and set to fit into society as every other American. Allah Ta Ala has pre ordained that we maintain ourselves and our families, and be law abiding citizens. We as Muslims do this with pride.
However, through all of the hustle and bustle we occasionally need to really stop and reflect. We should slow down, and using a microscope, look at our lives. Are we happy? Are we really doing what is expected of us? Whose standard of living, are we living up to? Can we live healthier, on our present income? Are we ever going to be self sufficient? Do we have a choice?
We may or may not ever have a lot of money however; we do have intelligence, a will to survive and the ability to do better. We can do better.
People the world over have the same basic needs,
And they are food, shelter and clothing. Times as they are now, we need them as inexpensively as possible. Our ancestors knew how to cut a corner.
In days of old, Work consumed the day the same as ours, however it was manual labor. People were cutting wood, carrying water tending the fire, sewing the clothing, farming, home schooling their children, tending to the garden and raising animals, cooking, making soap, doing community services……that was defiantly a lot more work than we do today. Also their life expectancy was much shorter than ours; they didn’t have half of the modern conveniences that we have now. We need to practice some olden day methods because there is no getting around it, they olden have caught up with us again!
If we want to survive the coming years ahead on our own two feet, on minimum wage or no wage we need to pay more attention to our ancestor’s way of life. Read about them and do serious research. We have got to incorporate naturalist ways of living and share our ideas and views with each others. We need to take a crash course, and act on it quickly! We need to purchase organic seeds. Why organic, because the quality of the finished product is healthier and easier to digest. When you plant this season let some of your crops go to seed and save the seeds for the next planting season. Plan your gardens NOW, early in the winter and as soon as the ground is workable work it! Start your seedlings in your homes as soon as possible. Start gathering and stocking things that will hold you over for long periods of time such as; olive oil, ghee, chapatti flour, oatmeal, vermicelli, barley, garlic, onions, basmati rice, honey, nuts and dried fruits. We need to learn how to truly be self sufficient, NOW!
American Indians were self sufficient they lived off of the land. They bartered and traded and made their own clothing, food, and medicine. People all over the world have been self sufficient for centuries. The consumer society that many Americans live in is out of control, and most probably will be coming to a screeching halt, very soon. We need to refocus, and get ready.
Here is a basic list of things you’ll need to get you started;
First Aid
Unexpected accidents happen all the time. You can never be prepared enough especially if you have small children.
Surgical tape, gauze, dua water, white cotton material, cotton balls, castor oil, white cotton wash clothes (collect them, you can’t have enough), peroxide, walnut powder (fungal problems and oral diseases), turmeric (antiseptic), cayenne pepper (bleeding, open wounds), charcoal powder (poison ingestion), baking soda (bee stings).
Clothing
Wool, cotton, muslin, terry cloth, corduroy, and flannel are the best, synthetic fabrics hold bacteria longer which contributes to yeast infections.
Herb to have on hand
If you don’t have the herbs below, plant them. Most of them are perennial and can save you a visit to the doctor’s office.
Amla powder (urinary tract infection, blood purifier), Burdock, walnut powder, yarrow (fever, sore throat), elderberry, red clover, catnip, neem powder (anti viral, contains sulfur and penicillin), peppermint, cayenne, turmeric, alum powder (rotting and breaking teeth, tooth ache), licorice, cloves, myrrh, aloe, Echinacea, fenugreek, plantain, horsetail, and raspberry, comfrey, and witch hazel.
Tools
Tools are all apart of self sufficiency. You must collect them and keep them clean. They will serve you as you serve them.
Hoe, splitting axe, pick ax, chain saw, generator, cast iron cook ware, rake, shovel, wheel barrel, buckets, ladders, snow shovels, hammer, nails, and a watering can
Best Oils to Use
Most people use oils for frying food. The truth be told they may taste good but they are not good for you. The lower the heating time the more nutritious the oil will be. Many oils are not safe for deep frying. Anything that say’s light, unrefined, or mechanically pressed, cannot withstand the intense heat. The composition of oil is changed when it reaches a certain temperature. The best of the best are the following;
Extra virgin olive oil, ghee, almond oil, organic coconut oil, sesame seed oil (not good for high heat), peanut oil. Essential oils are important also, if you can find a pure source it would be helpful to have; lemon, peppermint, lavender, rose, ginger and eucalyptus on hand.
Seeds to purchase
Remember organic is without a doubt the best. If you are having a problem finding them on or offline don’t let it stop you from planting. These seeds will be helpful InshAllah;
Alfalfa, squash, beets, cucumber, eggplant, carrots, potatoes, kale, spinach, collard greens, asparagus (which is a perennial and will serve you for many years, Allah willing).
Skills to learn and Teach
Basket weaving, sewing, knitting, fishing, crochet, animal husbandry, building, soap making, gardening, and car repair and shoe making
Cleaning supplies
Cleaning is very important of course. Laundry detergents which are full of perfumes, petroleum, and chemicals they also are very expensive. The same applies to body soaps. Castile soap is the cleanest of soaps and is multi purpose. You can grate a bar of Castile soap and use it for laundry soap adding borax and baking soda. You can also grate a bar of Castile soap, add 1 egg, 1tsp olive oil, 1 tsp lemon juice and have a enriching shampoo. You will need to purchase baking soda, cream of tartar, organic vinegar and lemon juice for these recipes. Here are a few inexpensive recipes followed by a supply list.
Dish washing Detergent
2tbl baking soda
2tbl borax
Mix the two together and add very hot water, then cold for washing dishes.
Window cleaner
1 flat club soda 16oz more or less
2tbl baking soda
2tbl borax
Mix ingredients together and put in spray bottle.
Stain Remover
2tbl cream of tartar, water
Make a paste of the two and rub into stain. Allow it to dry before washing.
Clothes Brighteners
Add 1 to 2 tablespoons Epsom salts to the wash cycle.
Fabric Softeners
¼ cup baking soda, added to wash cycle.
Borax Fabric Softener
¼ cup or less borax, added to wash cycle.
No Static Cling
¼ cup of vinegar, added to the wash cycle will prevent static cling
Begin to wean yourself from processed foods. Processed foods are anything in a box, plastic bag, can or bottle. We have been happily consuming them for decades. Supermarkets, restaurants and fast food chains add fillers and unnatural oils to them, to avoid spoilage and increase the shelf life.
There have been many unexplained illnesses as of the last 10 years. Doctors are baffled and confounded with them themselves. Everyone is given antibiotics for basically every illness, isn’t that odd? Your body works very hard everyday to balance your dietary decisions. Excessive abuse of; sugar, artificial additives, homogenized dairy products, and man made fats like trans fats are very harmful. These products work against you and if you already have, chronic illnesses it adds to you problems. Today trans fats are working havoc on everybody. Do you know what trans fats are? They are created fats. Fat which are created when vegetable oil is put through a process called hydrogenation. Hydrogenation happens when hydrogen gas is bubbled through vegetable oil (bottom of the barrel vegetable oil). This process causes the vegetable oil to become thicker and also alters its natural state and turns it into a chemically charged poison. You’ll see in the markets hydrogenated soy oil, and partially hydrogenated oil, it’s all the same poison.
One hundred years ago, the Proctor and Gamble Company brought it to the masses first with a product they named Crisco. Crisco is still on the market clogging arteries and constipating millions. Trans fats are similar to lard and margarine in that they clog the digestive tract, cause heart disease and raise your cholesterol. Tran’s fats are not going to disappear overnight. They are in everything and do harm to you! This is why we should limit our intake of processed foods. Here is a list of some popular items that contain Tran’s fats; frozen waffles, micro wave pop corn, crackers, cakes, cookies, pastries, pies, margarine and brownie mixes, fast food, and ready to eat frosting. Foods that don’t have trans fats are; fresh fruit, fresh vegetables, black beans, pinto beans, garbanzo beans, and others, barley, rolled oats, whole wheat, white and brown rice, to name a few.
Other foods that are beneficial and help you to live healthier are;
1. Ginger- Reduces headache pain, body pain and lowers cholesterol
2. Radishes- Reduce risks of Cancer, and enhances the immune system.
3. Fenugreek seeds- Aids in digestion, good for eyes, tonic for men, dries mucus, lowers fevers, and lower cholesterol.
4. Celery- Lowers blood pressure, it helps arthritis, gout, and kidney problems.
5. Asparagus- Wards off arthritis, lowers cholesterol, lowers blood pressure, helps fights heart disease.
6. Artichoke- Prevents Cancer, and heals the liver.
7. Cinnamon- Kills mouth microbes, kills infection, stabilizes diabetes, fights respiratory viruses.
We should also know by now that all genetically engineered foods and vegetables are still being tested on us the public, so we don’t really know the long term effects. If we don’t grow it ourselves we will definitely be at loss. There is no time like the present to prepare for what’s to come!

Oh Lovers of the Holy Last Messenger, Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him):
The Holy Last Messenger (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said, “When people emerge from their graves, I shall be the first to emerge, and when three people will assemble, I shall be their leader; and when people become silent, I shall be their orator; and when people come forth for accountability, I shall be their intercessor; and when all are bereft of hope, I shall bring them hope; and on that Day, I shall be holding the Flag of Karamat, and I shall be the possessor of the keys of Heaven, and I shall be the most revered of the human beings before Almighty Allah. I shall be surrounded by thousands upon thousands of servants as if they were protecting a precious jewel. And no supplication can soar to its target without the recitation of Durood Shareef* on me, and when Durood Shareef has been recited, the obstruction is removed and the prayer soars high for acceptance.” (From the texts Aab-e-Kauthar and Sa’adat-ud-Darain)
Oh Lovers of the Holy Last Messenger, Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him):
The Holy Last Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “If a person is beset by worries, he should recite Durood Shareef for me abundantly because it removes worries, sufferings, misfortunes, increases subsistence, and fulfills wishes.” (From the texts Aab-E-Kauthar, Dalail-ul-Khairat Cawnpuri, and Nuzhat-un-Nazireen)

*Durood Shareef implies praying for peace and blessings upon the Holy Last Messenger, Muhammad, may God’s peace be upon him.

Note: This camp has already taken place.

Offering Beginning and Advanced Islamic Studies,
Real Camping Experience & Exciting Activities

If you’ve never been to our ladies camp before, this is the one for you!
Each summer, Banaatun Noor International (BNI), under the auspices of the International Quranic Open University (IQOU) offers a month-long intensive educational summer camp for those honorable ladies aspiring to perfect their understanding and practice of the traditional way of life as taught by the blessed example of the Holy Last Messenger Muhammad, his noble family and wives, peace be upon them. This summer will offer the same opportunity of learning and practice from the IQOU headquarters in Holy Islamberg, NY.
Organizers say that this year’s camp aims “to offer a new beginning, a fresh start.” Together, the attendees will strive to become exemplary Muslim ladies within and outside of their homes. The beginning of new inspiration and strength is at the core of this summer ladies’ camp. “The love and unity that can only be found in coming together for Allah’s pleasure drives these camps,” previous participants have stated.
The directors of the summer camp are inspired and excited about this year’s camp, stating emphatically that “Strength is Iman (that faith which is put into practice) and Iman is the foundation of our life. We, the Banaatun Noor staff, are looking forward to being there as an aid to you and supplying you with a service that, God willing, will bring every participant success.”
Requirements
Special care should be taken in preparing for the camp. While the form of the camp will reflect that of previous years, it will limit attendees to 100 campers only, 25 of whom will be returnees; the rest will be undertaking their first-time IQOU summer camp experience.
BNI staff are asking aspiring participants to come with pure intentions, open hearts and minds, and to prepare to be able to receive all that Allah may have for them. Camp organizers advise: “Make your intentions clear to travel, to study, and to absorb the knowledge that will be prepared for us, all for the sake and pleasure of Allah Almighty. We must adhere to the commands of the Holy Quran and Sunnah, or way of life, of our Holy Master Muhammad (peace be upon him), and implement this into our daily lives. The Sunnah must be our creed in every walk of life. We welcome you to join us at this years’ summer camp.”
In order to ensure a place on the limited participant list, the completed application and fee of $200 for the month must be submitted on or before the registration dates of June 13 and 14. Classes will begin on the 15th, and the graduation ceremony will be on July 17, 2009. Participants must be aged 16 or older.

-The International Quranic Open University is a world renowned institution offering the highest quality education of pure, unadulterated Islamic teaching. Thousands have attended classes in both traditional classroom settings and through online collaboration.

By M.A. Gillani
Defence Journal, Pakistan

Defence Journal Columnist M. A. Gillani writes about the memorable expeditions of Muhammad bin Qasim, the conqueror of Sind (to be published in the Islamic Post in three parts).
Introduction
A lot has been written by many writers, about the conquests, the bravery, and leadership qualities of Muhammad Bin Qasim. The name of Mohammad Bin Qasim is known in every Muslim house in the Indo-Pakistan subcontinent. In the military history of the world, he is the youngest commander-in-chief who won brilliant victories against much superior enemies. Here it should be mentioned that Alexander the Great, Sultan Mohammad the Conqueror (of Constantinople fame) and Napoleon were 24 years, 23 years and 26 years old, respectively, when they commanded armies in battle. Mohammad bin Qasim was only 18 years old when he was entrusted with an independent command of the forces operating against Sind.
An effort has been made in this article to highlight the planning, tactics and strategy for various battles fought by Mohammad Bin Qasim. He was not sent to any military institute for training, but had a sharp eye for tactics and strategy, and applied the same as a great captain of war. It is due to his conquest of Sind, Multan and the area of Dipalpur up to the River Beas, that today in the Indo-Pakistan Subcontinent, there are about 35 crores of Muslims living in its various parts. Various military institutes have honoured him by naming cadet houses and companies as “Qasim” so that inspiration may be drawn. In some cities, gardens and parks have been named after him; a port in Pakistan is also named Qasim. Parents also feel proud to name their sons Qasim.
Situation in Sind
Before the advent of Islam, Sind was under the sway of Rajas known as Rai. The Rai dynasty remained in power up to 632 (or 11 Hijra), and after the death of Sevas, his son Raj Sahisi became the ruler who appointed a Brahman named Chach as his minister. Chach was very intelligent, glib of tongue, a flatterer and past master in the art of influencing others. Soon he, without permission, was allowed to visit the Raja in his private chamber. The beautiful Rani Sohnih Devi had fallen in love with the handsome young Chach, and after the death of the Raja, with all the support of the Rani, Chach was elected as the Raja. He married the Rani. Chach remained Raja from 632 to 660 C.E. (11-40 Hijra), and during this period, his brothers and near relatives were appointed as rulers on his behalf of various important areas of the kingdom. He also annexed territory of neighbouring rajas. The real claimants to the throne were removed and banished. Kalat, Khuzdar, Panj Gure, Arman Bela, the whole of Sind, Vohh (the old Iskanda or Asklinda), Multan and Dipalpur were included in his kingdom. From the Arabian Sea in the west, it extended up to the River Sultlej.
Chach died in 660 C.E. and left two sons, Dahir and Dihar Seena, and one daughter named Mayeen. She was to be married to the Raja of Bhatia. She was residing with her younger brother who sent her with a rich dowry to his elder brother, Dahir, for her onward dispatch to the bridegroom, the Raja of Bhatia.
The court astrologer had made an ominous prophecy that whosoever married Mayeen would be the master of Sind. Hence the wazir strongy recommended that Dahir should marry his sister to save the kingdom. But Dahir refused because it was a most heinous, immoral act that went against religion; he was also afraid of public opinion. He was most upset with the astrologer’s revelation. The crafty wazir sprinkled some fast growing seeds on the already earth-plastered skin of a goat and left it in the crowded market of the capital; within some hours, leaves appeared on the goat’s skin. Flabbergasted people gathered around the goat to see the fast growing plants. Their interest continued for three days after which no one bothered to watch the goat. The Wazir convinced Raja Dahir that his marriage with his sister would be discussed by the people for three days or so, and after that they would forget it. Dahir agreed, but after the marriage ceremony he remained away from his sister.
His brother, Raja Dihar Seena, on hearing of the marriage, was very upset and decided to avenge the crime of Dahir. But he died mysteriously on his way to the capital. Dahir outwardly shed crocodile tears on his demise, but soon his brother’s state was tenaciously occupied. Dahir then married the widow of his brother.
Muslim Traders of the Sea
Before the conquest of Muhammad Bin Qasim, the Muslim traders often visited the western coast of India and other coastal islands including the Maldives. Due to their efforts, many local people embraced Islam. …

“Muslim Traders of the Sea” continues in the next edition of The Islamic Post.

By Subhana A. Rahim

While recession woes and the economic crisis in the United States are at their greatest peak since the Great Depression, the need to find the source of America’s financial catastrophe and create preventative measures have become a necessity. The Senate responded to this need recently by adopting the Fraud Enforcement and Recovery Act of 2009 (FERA). This Act, which was introduced by Senator Patrick Leahy (D-VT) and Senator Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), broadens the scope by which the government can investigate and prosecute financial institutions in the mortgage lending business. Previous statutes generally impose sentences and fines for infractions relating to conventional banks and financial institutions. This most recent legislation widens the range of financial institutions that are affected, by specifically including mortgage lending companies. It also imposes stiffer penalties and fines for mail and wire fraud associated with financial institutions. One component of the act calls for a bipartisan Financial Markets Commission, whose mission will be to examine the economic crisis from both international and domestic aspectsand will have full subpoena powers as well.
While proponents for this endeavor claim that this well- honed legislation leaves no stone unturned in terms of prosecution, critics of this Act argue that portions of FERA are redundant, overreaching and highly unnecessary as there are laws that are already in place that address the specific infractions mentioned in the amendments. For example, the verbiage regarding “bribery” and “false statements” are already potentially punishable by hefty fines and extended jail terms of up to $1 million and 30 years respectively. Detractors are also concerned with the high costs that the government will incur for holding lengthy commissions thereby eating away at taxpayers’ money. The House of Representatives’ legislation is expected to mimic that of the Senate’s regarding the establishment of the commission.

Muslims of the Americas Representatives Relocate to the Frontier State; Welcomed with Open Arms and Friendship

By A. Abdul Qadir Qadri

Shuaib and Malika Ahmed recently departed to a new frontier in the Alaskan tundra to establish an independent, self-sufficient, purely Islamic village. They reported their first day in Alaska as being filled with blessings and guidance. The family’s intentions are to further the mission to unite Muslims and Christians on their similar values.
Mr. Ahmed reported making contacts immediately upon arrival at the airport, as the cab driver was a Muslim from Macedonia, in Eastern Europe. “Right away, common ground was established,” said Mr. Ahmed. “We were able to tell him of the support the International Quranic Open University gave to the Bosnian Ambassador to the United Nations, Muhamed Sacirbey, during the 1990s. This was the first person we met and he enjoyed hearing about this.” Bosnia and Madedonia are both Balkan nations.
Two very warm and welcoming receptionists met Mr. and Mrs. Ahmed at the hotel; as the couple introduced themselves, they gave each a copy of the Islamic Post as a token of appreciation. Shuaib Ahmed mentioned to the young lady that he and his wife were looking for a Church to attend Bible study class as part of their interfaith studies and efforts to build bridges between adherents of the two faiths, Islam and Christianity. One of the receptionists invited the Muslim family to her church without hesitation: the Antioch Church of God in Christ.
At the Bible study, they were each very well received. The Bible study related to the Honorable Messenger Jesus, peace be upon him, and his compassion for poor, the sick, and the suffering. The couple participated in the lesson and their input was appreciated throughout. After the study session, the group engaged in a warm conversation explaining that there is no reason for dissension, nor any segregating factor between Al Islam and Christianity. The Church’s Pastor, James Willis, expressed joy and a spirit of cooperation at the Muslim family’s sincere efforts for peace and unity.
Shuaib and Malika Ahmed were also fortunate to find an apartment quickly. As they explained their purpose for relocating to Anchorage, the leaseholders became overwhelmed with excitement and inspiration, and invited them to attend an election rally for Mr. Eric Croft, who is one of the upcoming candidates for Mayor of Anchorage. The couple attended the election rally with their new friends and neighbors who were excited to have them as part of the gathering. Malika and Shuaib Ahmed then met personally with Mr. Croft. The aspiring mayor was impressed by their presence and enthusiasm. In his speech, he expressed the desire to combat forces which keep people apart, such as prejudice and racism. “He seemed to be very sincere about making life better for all people,” said Mr. Ahmed.
Mr. and Mrs. Ahmed later contacted another church, which extended an open invitation for participation in their activities.
Having found employment opportunities, the couple will be continuing their work towards developing and improving their new local community, God-willing, and will be reporting to keep Islamic Post readers updated.
The Vice Chancellor of the International Quranic Open University, El Sheikh Syed Mubarik Ali Shah Gilani Hashmi, initiated the new project for the purposes of cultivating understanding of Islam and furthering interfaith dialog in what is known as the ‘Last Frontier State.’.

By Yasmin A. Atheem

The State of Hawaii passed a resolution on May 6 marking September 24, 2009 as Islam Day. The resolution, known as HCR100, passed with overwhelming support in a 22-3 vote. The small island state, home to over 3,000 Muslims, passed the resolution in which it states the island will “recognize the rich religious, scientific, cultural, and artistic contributions” of Islam and the Islamic world.
Senator Will Espero of Hawaii told Fox News his supporting thoughts about the new resolution: “We are a state of tolerance. We understand that people have different beliefs. We may not all agree on every single item and issue out there, but to say and highlight the negativity of the Islamic people is an insult to the majority [of believers] who are good, law-abiding citizens of the world.”
The three declining votes included two Republicans who disagree with the declarations set forth in the resolution, and one Democrat who opposed on the grounds of separation of church and state.
Hakim Ouansafi, president of the Muslim Association of Hawaii, told the Honolulu Star Bulletin, “The legislators have done in one resolution more to plant seeds of understanding than anyone could dream.”
The “Islam Day” bill now moves to Hawaii governor Linda Lingle, for signing.
The following is the House Concurrent Resolution 100 (HCR100) in it’s entirety:
PROCLAIMING SEPTEMBER 24, 2009, AS ISLAM DAY:
WHEREAS, Hawaii is known for the wealth of its cultural and religious diversity and the harmony with which people of many cultures and religions live together; and WHEREAS, Muslims constitute an ethnically diverse part of Hawaii’s cultural fabric, with around 3,000 practicing members; and
WHEREAS, the Prophet Mohammad [peace be upon him] left his house to migrate to Madinah and reached Quba in the vicinity of Madinah on the 12th day of Rabi ul-Awwal according to the lunar calendar, or September 24th according to the Gregorian calendar, thereby marking the birth of Islam; and
WHEREAS, Islam, a religion with a long and noble history, is the second largest religion in the world, with over one billion followers spread across every continent, and including members of many nations and cultures; and
WHEREAS, the Islamic world preserved and made original contributions to works of science and philosophy during the Middle Ages when these disciplines were threatened by bigotry and prejudice in other parts of the world; and
WHEREAS, Islamic artists, scientists, and philosophers have a rich history of contribution to world literature and our collective scientific understanding; and
WHEREAS, the Islamic faith shares common teachings found in the texts of both Christianity and Judaism, whose followers are respected and considered “People of the Book;” and
WHEREAS, Islamic doctrine encourages generosity in its adherents, maintaining that those who possess much have a responsibility to care for those in need; and
WHEREAS, Islam, along with its monotheistic counterparts, holds that peace is a divine quality and necessary for collective human happiness; and
WHEREAS, Islam strives for a world-wide community which, in the words of one Islamic poet-philosopher, “does not recognize the superficial differences of race, or history, or nationality”; and
WHEREAS, the United States and countries of the Islamic world hold in common many beliefs and values including concepts of world community and mutual responsibility; and
WHEREAS, international understanding and peace, as well as understanding and peace in our local communities, are strengthened by free and open communications among everyone representing various cultural and religious traditions; and
WHEREAS, the 96th United States Congress officially recognized the noble qualities of Islam in a concurrent resolution on October 15, 1979 (SCR 43), honoring the religion’s 14th centennial; now, therefore,
BE IT RESOLVED by the House of Representatives of the Twenty-fifth Legislature of the State of Hawaii, Regular Session of 2009, the Senate concurring, that September 24, 2009, shall be known as “Islam Day” to recognize the rich religious, scientific, cultural, and artistic contributions Islam and the Islamic world have made since their founding; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that certified copies of this Concurrent Resolution be transmitted to Hawaii’s congressional delegation, the Governor, and the Board of the Muslim Association of Hawaii.

By Jameelah A. Aziz

The Constitution of the United States was developed by our founding fathers to ensure equality for all, indifferent to race, gender, age or religion. In the first amendment of the US Constitution it states, “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances”. However, in certain instances it seems as if the rights of minors are not always equal to that of adults and therefore can, and have, been suppressed. This phenomena is seen at times within the public school system, where it can be said that students’ constitutional rights are being violated across the country.
This practice has been recently observed in the case of ten year old Adam Awwad, a Muslim student at the Albert Payson Terhune Elementary School in Wayne, NJ, who went through difficulty when looking for a place to perform his prayers which, in Islam, are made five times daily on a fixed, mandatory schedule, including during work or school times. For quite some time, Adam’s mother, Rola Awwad, had been seeking an appropriate environment in school for her son to pray. To accommodate Rola’s request, the Wayne School District offered Adam the time to pray outside at recess or inside the classroom while his classmates were there. Mrs Awwad found this arrangement to be “unacceptable” for her son. She wanted a quiet and clean place for her child to pray. The elementary school showed concern about the safety of Adam if he were to be left alone and unattended.
According to the school’s website, their mission is to “create independent thinkers and social problem solvers who are respectful of themselves and others.”
Muslim advocates were attracted to the situation at the school and made suggestions to the family of bringing their issue to the state for resolution.
Meanwhile, after concerns that other students would make fun of him, Adam took it upon himself to pray during lunchtime in the back of the classroom while the other students played games. Now he is joined by four other Muslim classmates. Mrs Rola Awwad’s seven year old daughter, Amana, also has similar arrangements in her second grade classroom.
According to North Jersey News, Mrs Awwad said the Council on American-Islamic Relations had considered bringing the issue before the state Board of Education. But Awwad said she wants to wait and see if the current arrangement continues to work for her children.
Muslims aren’t the only ones having difficulty exercising their religious rights in school, Christians are as well. In 2007, The Christian Post reported that twelve Christian students were suspended for holding a morning prayer meeting at the cafeteria of Heritage High School in Vancouver, Washington. The suspensions were later retracted. Also in 2007, two students of the College of Alameda in California were threatened with suspension because they were praying on campus with an instructor. Bay Area News reported that Kandy Kyriacou and Ojoma Omaga- were found praying with their ailing teacher. The two students are currently suing Peralta Community College District for violation of their civil rights under the premise that school administration and teachers are not only responsible to educate and provide a safe learning environment, but also must respect student’s individual rights.

By Jannah A. Malik

Recently the House passed a bill for the purpose of modernizing, renovating, and repairing public school facilities. The bill, which encourages the creation of clean and healthy environments for schoolchildren, would also promote energy conservation, while at the same time producing thousands of jobs. Passing 275 to 155, the bill will now go to the Senate. If approved it would allot a starting amount of $6.4 billion within the first year and similar amounts throughout the next five years.
The bill states that the Secretary of Education, in consultation with the Secretary of Labor, shall work with recipients of funds under this Act to promote appropriate opportunities for participants in a YouthBuild program, as well as using existing Job Corps members and individuals enrolled in a junior or community college. The text of the bill cites the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 and the Higher Education Act of 1965 as justification to offer “employment experience on modernization, renovation, repair, and construction projects” funded under the bill.
A separate $600 million would be approved under the act within a six year period for public schools in Louisiana, Alabama, and Mississippi that were damaged by hurricanes Katrina and Rita in 2005.
By the year 2015, 100% of funds available for green building projects would have to meet ‘green standards’ for energy sources as well as construction materials. Amongst the companies that provide the necessary materials according to these standards or guidelines are: EnergyStar, Green Globes, and the Leadership and Environmental Design (Leed) Green building rating system.
Supporters of the bill spoke about the pressing need for funds for repairs in schools. Rep. John Hall (D-NY) stated: “America’s aging schools are in dire need of assistance. I am a former trustee and school board president. I have seen it. Buildings are crumbling while school districts are having trouble paying their energy bills. This bill would help school districts invest in repairs, construction and green modernization without passing the burden on to local taxpayers who in New York, I know, can’t afford any more property tax.”
In opposition some expressed great concern over the cost of the bill. “No one is going to argue in favor of a less-than-perfect physical structure for students,” said Rep. David Dreier (R-CA) “But what I believe we need to argue is how do you pay for that. And again, I believe very strongly that we, as a federal government, have reached way too far into so many different areas.”
Allowing for oversight, however, the bill states in its text that: “Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General of the United States shall conduct a study to determine, and report to the Congress on, the extent and types of projects in keeping with the uses of funds authorized under this Act being undertaken in schools around the United States, the geographic distribution of green, high-performing schools in the United States, including by urban, suburban, and rural areas, and the relative access to such schools of the demographic groups described in section 1111(b)(2)(C)(v) of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965.”
Objecting to the cost of the new school construction plan, former President George W. Bush threatened to veto the bill last year. Similar legislation was also not passed by the Senate. The bill’s sponsors, however, are more hopeful of its enactment due to President Barack Obama’s making school improvement projects one of his many priorities.