Salams,
So this post is about exactly what it says in the title. I don't want to hear about the Taliban anymore. I am so sick and tired of it. It's draining the lives out of Muslims everywhere. We are so preoccupied with what is happening over Afghan/Pakiland that we don't realize the enormity of the injustices that we are creating with our own hands in other countries. We are only helping to prove what everyone already believes about us. We are good for nothings and we like to complain a lot. Complain. Complain. Complain.
When push comes to shove so very few Muslims stand up for what's right. Muslims like to cower in corners. Their bark is huge, but their bite is so small it doesn't even leave a mark. Ask yourself some questions (these are questions I am asking myself too, like sincerely, which onces can i really with all conviction say yes too)?
How recently have you reached out to a Muslim in need or a nonMuslim in need? Not like just asking how are you doing, but really sincerely going out of your way to help someone? A sincere kind word. A sincere kind invitation to your home for someone who is lonely and needs company. A sincere gift to someone. A sincere show of support (not just half-hearted attempts).
- Rabea
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Saturday, April 4, 2009
All things Punky Brewster
Salams,
Which girl didn't love Punky Brewster as a child? As an 80s-90s child, I loved Punky. Her mismatched clothes, her funky hairstyles, her eclectic lifestyle, it was awesome. So this post is a tribute to Punky Brewster.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Punky_Brewster#Theme_song
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Soleil_Moon_Frye
Thursday, April 2, 2009
To Be a Muslim
Salams,
So I've been thinking. What's wrong with Muslims? It's a thought that preoccupies my mind these days.
1) It seems that most Muslims wants to be with you in good times and not in bad times. For example, a couple getting a divorce. Everybody would love to help out if you want to patch things up, but the moment you say you don't want to patch things up and you want a divorce, no one will help you. They'll run as fast as they can. Sorry, but in my book that is not being a Muslim. Now you can get into semantics and say, well they are Muslims and not Mu'mins, it doesn't matter. The shahadah should keep you in line enough to stand for haqq and stand against batil, and if it doesn't then you need to check your faith.
2) If you find that you are someone that belongs in category number 1, well then you need some help. Your soul needs help. You need to look into your nafs and realize that you not wanting to help someone in a bad, terrible situation, well that says more about you than it says about anyone else. You probably have huge insecurities. You are lying to yourself about Iman then, that's a problem. That's a problem between you and your Creator, and with the rest of humanity as well. You will struggle your whole life. Find the truth now then. I'll be honest with you, it's a difficult process, you will struggle, and uncover some ugly demons in your closet. But it needs to be done if you feel you want any kind of positive connection with your Creator, your nafs, your family, your community, and the Muslim ummah at large.
3) Muslims love to black and white things. Do you think Allah is black and white? Not literally, of course, but Islam is not black and white. Yes I agree the big things are well big, like shirk, adultery, riba, etc. But other things it's not so clear. I used to be a big black and whiter. I wanted to dictate to everyone about what they shouldn't be doing and what they should be doing. I've changed (or I hope I have - if not for me, for others). I wanted to impose my ideas on others. That was about myself and no higher cause. My own insecurities took me there, I wanted to black and white it so I wouldn't question anything, there is some kind of power in it too, so you dont want to show anyone you are powerless. Once I realized it was about myself and not others, I let it go. And my closet liberal came out. By closet liberal I dont mean that I started to wear skimpy clothes and taking all of what I know about what is right and wrong in Islam and tabling it, but rather the stuff that is not cut in stone, well I realized it is not cut in stone. I realize now I can't condemn someone to hell for say drinking with their left hand. (I dont think I ever did that, but my salafi younger sister sure did, many a time!lol)
4) You can't say a kind word, or even smile at someone. I've noticed that Muslims have a very hard time with this. They rather just brood and stick in their groups or posses rather than going out of their way to smile or say salam to someone outside of their group. Or to say hi to non-Muslims, or to play with children. We just want to sit around in our intense discussions, our intense relationships we have forged with each other, and ignore the rest all around us. Marvelous. Marvelously wrong.
5) Stand up for truth no matter the consequences. Everyone is afraid of consequences. Everyone is afraid of being hated. No one wants to be the bad guy. Remember, Islam came to erase all that?! If you really believe that, then next time you see the truth blaring out at you and you see some kind of dhulm being done on someone, then jump at the opportunity to stand for the truth. You won't get that chance everyday and some people only get it a few times in their lifetime. It's a test from Allah. But unfortunately most Muslims fail miserably, and not only do they fail themselves, well the dhulm of not standing up for truth, other people go down with them too. Like my friend says, DOJ man, no not department of justice, but day of Judgment. Everyone will get what they deserve.
Rabea
So I've been thinking. What's wrong with Muslims? It's a thought that preoccupies my mind these days.
1) It seems that most Muslims wants to be with you in good times and not in bad times. For example, a couple getting a divorce. Everybody would love to help out if you want to patch things up, but the moment you say you don't want to patch things up and you want a divorce, no one will help you. They'll run as fast as they can. Sorry, but in my book that is not being a Muslim. Now you can get into semantics and say, well they are Muslims and not Mu'mins, it doesn't matter. The shahadah should keep you in line enough to stand for haqq and stand against batil, and if it doesn't then you need to check your faith.
2) If you find that you are someone that belongs in category number 1, well then you need some help. Your soul needs help. You need to look into your nafs and realize that you not wanting to help someone in a bad, terrible situation, well that says more about you than it says about anyone else. You probably have huge insecurities. You are lying to yourself about Iman then, that's a problem. That's a problem between you and your Creator, and with the rest of humanity as well. You will struggle your whole life. Find the truth now then. I'll be honest with you, it's a difficult process, you will struggle, and uncover some ugly demons in your closet. But it needs to be done if you feel you want any kind of positive connection with your Creator, your nafs, your family, your community, and the Muslim ummah at large.
3) Muslims love to black and white things. Do you think Allah is black and white? Not literally, of course, but Islam is not black and white. Yes I agree the big things are well big, like shirk, adultery, riba, etc. But other things it's not so clear. I used to be a big black and whiter. I wanted to dictate to everyone about what they shouldn't be doing and what they should be doing. I've changed (or I hope I have - if not for me, for others). I wanted to impose my ideas on others. That was about myself and no higher cause. My own insecurities took me there, I wanted to black and white it so I wouldn't question anything, there is some kind of power in it too, so you dont want to show anyone you are powerless. Once I realized it was about myself and not others, I let it go. And my closet liberal came out. By closet liberal I dont mean that I started to wear skimpy clothes and taking all of what I know about what is right and wrong in Islam and tabling it, but rather the stuff that is not cut in stone, well I realized it is not cut in stone. I realize now I can't condemn someone to hell for say drinking with their left hand. (I dont think I ever did that, but my salafi younger sister sure did, many a time!lol)
4) You can't say a kind word, or even smile at someone. I've noticed that Muslims have a very hard time with this. They rather just brood and stick in their groups or posses rather than going out of their way to smile or say salam to someone outside of their group. Or to say hi to non-Muslims, or to play with children. We just want to sit around in our intense discussions, our intense relationships we have forged with each other, and ignore the rest all around us. Marvelous. Marvelously wrong.
5) Stand up for truth no matter the consequences. Everyone is afraid of consequences. Everyone is afraid of being hated. No one wants to be the bad guy. Remember, Islam came to erase all that?! If you really believe that, then next time you see the truth blaring out at you and you see some kind of dhulm being done on someone, then jump at the opportunity to stand for the truth. You won't get that chance everyday and some people only get it a few times in their lifetime. It's a test from Allah. But unfortunately most Muslims fail miserably, and not only do they fail themselves, well the dhulm of not standing up for truth, other people go down with them too. Like my friend says, DOJ man, no not department of justice, but day of Judgment. Everyone will get what they deserve.
Rabea
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Life's Funeral
Artist: Ataullah Khan Esakhelvi (Ataullah Khan Isakhelvi)
Idhar Zindagi Ka Janaza (Life's Funeral)
(I tried to translate as best as I could, would welcome corrections, additions..etc)
Hum To Tinkay Chun Rahay Thay Aashiynay K Liyeah (I was collecting straws to build my house)
Aap Say Kiss Nai Kaha Bijli Giranay K Liyeah (Who asked you to hit it with lightning?)
Haath Thak Jain Gay Kiyoon Pees Rahay Ho Mehndi (Your hands will get tired from grinding the Henna)
Khoon Haazir Hai Hatheli Pay Laganay K Liyeah (My blood is available for you to decorate your palms!)
Ishq Ko Dard E Sir Kehnay Walaoon Suno (Those who say love is a headache listen:)
Kuch Bhi Ho Hum Nai Yeah Dard E Sir Lay Liya (Whatever happens we took this headache upon ourselves)
Woh Nigaahon Say Bach Ker Kahan Jain Gay (Where can they go to be safe from the stares of others)
Ub To Un K Mohallay Mein Ghar Lay Lia (Now they have bought a house in their neighborhood)
Aa'ye Bun Thun K Shehr E Khamooshaan Mein Wo (Now the town people have come (all dressed up)
Qabr Daikhi Jo Meri To Kehnay Lagay (After seeing my grave they said)
Aray Aaj Itni To Is Ki Taraqqi Howi (Goodness, he just become successful)
Aik Bayghar Nai Acha Sa Ghar Lay Lia(A man, homeless, bought himself a nice home)
Idhar Zindagi Ka Janaza Uthay Ga (Here Life's funeral will be held)
Udhar Zindagi Un Ki Dulhan Banay Gi (Their life will become their bride)
Qayamat Say Pehlay Qayamat Hai Yaaro (It's the Day of Judgement before the Day of Judgement, my friends)
Mairay Samnay Meri Dunya Lutay Gi (In front of me my life will be looted)
Jawani Pay Meri Sitam Dhanay Waloon (Youth...something, can't translate,help?)
Zara Sooch Lo Kia Kahay Ga Zamana(Just think what the times will think?)
Idhar Miaray Armaan Kafan Pehn Lain Gay (Here my hopes will be laid in my kaffan)
Udhar Un K Haathon Pay Mehndi Lagay Gi (There, on their hands will be put henna)
Woh Parday K Peechay Mein Parday K Aaagay (They are behind the curtain - parda, I am in front of the curtain (parda)
Na Woh Aain Aagay Na Mein Jaaon Peechay (They will not come forward and I will not go back)
Woh Aagay Barhein Gay To Kuch Bhi Na Hoga (If they come forward nothing will happen)
Mein Peechay Hatoon Ga To Dunya Hasay Gi (If I go back, then the dunya will laugh at me)
Azal Say Mohabbat Ki Dushman Hai Dunya (Something's enemey is dunya?)
Kaheen Do Diloon Ko Milnay Na Day Gi (It will not let two hearts meet)
Idhar Mairay Dil Per Khanjar Chalay Ga (Here knives will be slashed on my heart)
Udhar Un K Maathay Per Bindiya Sajay Gi (There on their forehead will be put a bindhi)
Abhi Un K Hasnay K Din Hein Wo Hasn Lain (Right now these are their days to laugh so let them laugh)
Abhi Mairay Ronay K Din Hein Mein Ro Loon (Right now these are my days to cry so I am crying )
Magar Aik Din Un Ko Rona Paray Ga (But one day they will have to cry)
K Jiss Din Bhi Meri Mayyat Uthay Gi (That one day my death (my funeral) will brought forth/up)
Rabea
Idhar Zindagi Ka Janaza (Life's Funeral)
(I tried to translate as best as I could, would welcome corrections, additions..etc)
Hum To Tinkay Chun Rahay Thay Aashiynay K Liyeah (I was collecting straws to build my house)
Aap Say Kiss Nai Kaha Bijli Giranay K Liyeah (Who asked you to hit it with lightning?)
Haath Thak Jain Gay Kiyoon Pees Rahay Ho Mehndi (Your hands will get tired from grinding the Henna)
Khoon Haazir Hai Hatheli Pay Laganay K Liyeah (My blood is available for you to decorate your palms!)
Ishq Ko Dard E Sir Kehnay Walaoon Suno (Those who say love is a headache listen:)
Kuch Bhi Ho Hum Nai Yeah Dard E Sir Lay Liya (Whatever happens we took this headache upon ourselves)
Woh Nigaahon Say Bach Ker Kahan Jain Gay (Where can they go to be safe from the stares of others)
Ub To Un K Mohallay Mein Ghar Lay Lia (Now they have bought a house in their neighborhood)
Aa'ye Bun Thun K Shehr E Khamooshaan Mein Wo (Now the town people have come (all dressed up)
Qabr Daikhi Jo Meri To Kehnay Lagay (After seeing my grave they said)
Aray Aaj Itni To Is Ki Taraqqi Howi (Goodness, he just become successful)
Aik Bayghar Nai Acha Sa Ghar Lay Lia(A man, homeless, bought himself a nice home)
Idhar Zindagi Ka Janaza Uthay Ga (Here Life's funeral will be held)
Udhar Zindagi Un Ki Dulhan Banay Gi (Their life will become their bride)
Qayamat Say Pehlay Qayamat Hai Yaaro (It's the Day of Judgement before the Day of Judgement, my friends)
Mairay Samnay Meri Dunya Lutay Gi (In front of me my life will be looted)
Jawani Pay Meri Sitam Dhanay Waloon (Youth...something, can't translate,help?)
Zara Sooch Lo Kia Kahay Ga Zamana(Just think what the times will think?)
Idhar Miaray Armaan Kafan Pehn Lain Gay (Here my hopes will be laid in my kaffan)
Udhar Un K Haathon Pay Mehndi Lagay Gi (There, on their hands will be put henna)
Woh Parday K Peechay Mein Parday K Aaagay (They are behind the curtain - parda, I am in front of the curtain (parda)
Na Woh Aain Aagay Na Mein Jaaon Peechay (They will not come forward and I will not go back)
Woh Aagay Barhein Gay To Kuch Bhi Na Hoga (If they come forward nothing will happen)
Mein Peechay Hatoon Ga To Dunya Hasay Gi (If I go back, then the dunya will laugh at me)
Azal Say Mohabbat Ki Dushman Hai Dunya (Something's enemey is dunya?)
Kaheen Do Diloon Ko Milnay Na Day Gi (It will not let two hearts meet)
Idhar Mairay Dil Per Khanjar Chalay Ga (Here knives will be slashed on my heart)
Udhar Un K Maathay Per Bindiya Sajay Gi (There on their forehead will be put a bindhi)
Abhi Un K Hasnay K Din Hein Wo Hasn Lain (Right now these are their days to laugh so let them laugh)
Abhi Mairay Ronay K Din Hein Mein Ro Loon (Right now these are my days to cry so I am crying )
Magar Aik Din Un Ko Rona Paray Ga (But one day they will have to cry)
K Jiss Din Bhi Meri Mayyat Uthay Gi (That one day my death (my funeral) will brought forth/up)
Rabea
Friday, March 27, 2009
Jannati
Salams,
There are some people in this world, usually very few people, that you just know, you know are going to Jannah. They belong there, that is there place, their final destination.. I spoke to one of my best friends today, and you know it's funny, I don't need to speak to my best friends everyday to know we are best friends and we love each other, and we would do anything for each other. I emailed her, let her know I am not doing so well. She, living half way around the globe, wrote me back and told me she would call asap, not needing to wait for me to tell her the best time to call. So how do you know who your best friends are? Sorry to quantify this, but generally I need to quantify anything (I'm a numbers person)
1. They are there for you no matter how bad the circumstances. No matter how crappy life gets, they will stick with you.
2. They will fish you out of bad situations, not only will they fish you out, but they will help you catch your breath and recover, desertion is not an option.
3. They are non-judgmental. You don't need to explain to them why you did whatever, they get it, they get you, and no they will not judge, just help.
4. You are at peace with him/her. I have a couple of best friends. We can sit and just be. We don't need to talk excessively, we enjoy each other's company. We can sit, sleep, talk, eat, gossip, watch TV, cook, take a walk, and we are just cool with whatever.
5. The unspoken stuff is way more important than the spoken. Like I can say to my best friend, "I am feeling so and so.." She won't ask why, what happened, or what do you mean?, she'll say, "I know...how can I help?"
6. They keep your secrets. I am so bad at keeping secrets, but my friend's secrets?, I guard vehemently. They do the same for me.
7. I've noticed if you are doing something wrong people who don't care about you will let you stay on the path of destruction. Friends won't. I am lucky enough to have friends that will not only not let me continue, but they will do it in the most kindest, gracious way possible.
8. You generally don't fight or bicker. I dont think I have ever really fought with any of my best friends. This is probably more of a tribute to them than me.
9. You generally will share the same worldviews. You may not even be the same religion, but you see the world in a similar light. I have a good friend who is not Muslim, but wow we see many many things about this world and about people in a very similar light.
Living in this world is harsh. SubhanaAllah. Everyone is tested. If you can befriend someone at this level, try. Be someone's Abu Bakr (ra).
So this post was for my best friends, you guys know who you are. I love you guys. I know you will be in Jannah.
Rabea
There are some people in this world, usually very few people, that you just know, you know are going to Jannah. They belong there, that is there place, their final destination.. I spoke to one of my best friends today, and you know it's funny, I don't need to speak to my best friends everyday to know we are best friends and we love each other, and we would do anything for each other. I emailed her, let her know I am not doing so well. She, living half way around the globe, wrote me back and told me she would call asap, not needing to wait for me to tell her the best time to call. So how do you know who your best friends are? Sorry to quantify this, but generally I need to quantify anything (I'm a numbers person)
1. They are there for you no matter how bad the circumstances. No matter how crappy life gets, they will stick with you.
2. They will fish you out of bad situations, not only will they fish you out, but they will help you catch your breath and recover, desertion is not an option.
3. They are non-judgmental. You don't need to explain to them why you did whatever, they get it, they get you, and no they will not judge, just help.
4. You are at peace with him/her. I have a couple of best friends. We can sit and just be. We don't need to talk excessively, we enjoy each other's company. We can sit, sleep, talk, eat, gossip, watch TV, cook, take a walk, and we are just cool with whatever.
5. The unspoken stuff is way more important than the spoken. Like I can say to my best friend, "I am feeling so and so.." She won't ask why, what happened, or what do you mean?, she'll say, "I know...how can I help?"
6. They keep your secrets. I am so bad at keeping secrets, but my friend's secrets?, I guard vehemently. They do the same for me.
7. I've noticed if you are doing something wrong people who don't care about you will let you stay on the path of destruction. Friends won't. I am lucky enough to have friends that will not only not let me continue, but they will do it in the most kindest, gracious way possible.
8. You generally don't fight or bicker. I dont think I have ever really fought with any of my best friends. This is probably more of a tribute to them than me.
9. You generally will share the same worldviews. You may not even be the same religion, but you see the world in a similar light. I have a good friend who is not Muslim, but wow we see many many things about this world and about people in a very similar light.
Living in this world is harsh. SubhanaAllah. Everyone is tested. If you can befriend someone at this level, try. Be someone's Abu Bakr (ra).
So this post was for my best friends, you guys know who you are. I love you guys. I know you will be in Jannah.
Rabea
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
I've never worn nail polish
Salams,
I've never worn nail polish. To be exact I think I wore nail polish when I was 5 or 6 years old, but I haven't ever since.
There is a huge push to beautify yourself as a Muslim woman. Some do it in public, some do in private. But it seems that most Muslim women are extreme self-beautifiers. (of course there are exceptions,I'm one of them). Although recently I have semi-joined this trend of self-beautification, at such a small level that most people would laugh. The first time I went to an all-female Arab party I was scared, like really scared. Women I had seen in the masjid in jilbabs, abayas, took them off and really bared all. Low cut clothes, hi-lighted hair, loads and loads of makeup, heels to kill, and lots and lots of dancing that would put Beyonce to shame. I couldnt take my eyes off the floor, it was embarassing, and I was way too shy to watch. (This is not to say that Pakistani/Indian women parties are much better, they probably just wear more clothing).
Now I know femininity is important, it is important for female self-preservation. The outlet is needed. But to this extent, I'm not sure. The clothes, the hair, the dancing seemed so natural to these women, I wondered what was wrong with me? I've tried to get an answer from different sisters, the answer is always the same or similar, it's fun, we want to have fun, don't you just want to have fun sometimes? Er, ya, I do!? Dude, I'm not the biggest prude that ever lived this side of the hemisphere, but some of this stuff doesnt seem natural. How about we could dress up, look natural at some level, and just hang, watch a movie, talk, etc? Do we need to out beautify each other and learn these really complicated dances to be in each other's company? Who knows, maybe I'm missing something, so someone, some sister who gets "it" out there, could you fill me in? And you know maybe I could start practicing the moves from Shahrukh's latest movie.
Rabea
I've never worn nail polish. To be exact I think I wore nail polish when I was 5 or 6 years old, but I haven't ever since.
There is a huge push to beautify yourself as a Muslim woman. Some do it in public, some do in private. But it seems that most Muslim women are extreme self-beautifiers. (of course there are exceptions,I'm one of them). Although recently I have semi-joined this trend of self-beautification, at such a small level that most people would laugh. The first time I went to an all-female Arab party I was scared, like really scared. Women I had seen in the masjid in jilbabs, abayas, took them off and really bared all. Low cut clothes, hi-lighted hair, loads and loads of makeup, heels to kill, and lots and lots of dancing that would put Beyonce to shame. I couldnt take my eyes off the floor, it was embarassing, and I was way too shy to watch. (This is not to say that Pakistani/Indian women parties are much better, they probably just wear more clothing).
Now I know femininity is important, it is important for female self-preservation. The outlet is needed. But to this extent, I'm not sure. The clothes, the hair, the dancing seemed so natural to these women, I wondered what was wrong with me? I've tried to get an answer from different sisters, the answer is always the same or similar, it's fun, we want to have fun, don't you just want to have fun sometimes? Er, ya, I do!? Dude, I'm not the biggest prude that ever lived this side of the hemisphere, but some of this stuff doesnt seem natural. How about we could dress up, look natural at some level, and just hang, watch a movie, talk, etc? Do we need to out beautify each other and learn these really complicated dances to be in each other's company? Who knows, maybe I'm missing something, so someone, some sister who gets "it" out there, could you fill me in? And you know maybe I could start practicing the moves from Shahrukh's latest movie.
Rabea
Haqq
Salams,
Haqq is such an important theme to us as Muslims. Everyone tries to stand for the truth. The tragedy of this is that so many people are not truthful with themselves.This is especially true, it seems, for outwardly very religious people. It may be true for all the rest as well. If at any level you love Allah, Islam, the Prophet (saw), yourself, your spouse, your children, your parents, the Muslim Ummah, then you have to peel away those layers of nifaq and uncover the haqq within yourself. I have heard the cure of nifaq is infaq, which is spending in the cause of Allah (swt). Give sadaqah. Turn inwards. Make a connection with your own soul and connect with Allah (swt). Be truthful to yourself. Without this inward introspection we will have empty souls walking around, yelling rhetoric, with no substance behind it all. As I have said before, knowledge without character can be very dangerous. This will not only destroy the person him/her self, but will take down many with him/her.
Rabea
Haqq is such an important theme to us as Muslims. Everyone tries to stand for the truth. The tragedy of this is that so many people are not truthful with themselves.This is especially true, it seems, for outwardly very religious people. It may be true for all the rest as well. If at any level you love Allah, Islam, the Prophet (saw), yourself, your spouse, your children, your parents, the Muslim Ummah, then you have to peel away those layers of nifaq and uncover the haqq within yourself. I have heard the cure of nifaq is infaq, which is spending in the cause of Allah (swt). Give sadaqah. Turn inwards. Make a connection with your own soul and connect with Allah (swt). Be truthful to yourself. Without this inward introspection we will have empty souls walking around, yelling rhetoric, with no substance behind it all. As I have said before, knowledge without character can be very dangerous. This will not only destroy the person him/her self, but will take down many with him/her.
Rabea
Monday, March 23, 2009
A Poem
Salams,
The following link is to a poem written by Shabana Mir:
http://koonjblog.wordpress.com/?s=divorcee
I'm sure many women can relate (desi or otherwise).
Rabea
The following link is to a poem written by Shabana Mir:
http://koonjblog.wordpress.com/?s=divorcee
I'm sure many women can relate (desi or otherwise).
Rabea
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Tanhaiyan: The Original Pakistani Drama
Salams,
The Pakistani dramas these days are so complicated, such heavy topics, heavy handed humor, such lack of simplicity, lack of class, lack of drama etiquette...I loved Tanhaiyan. Tanhaiyan was the original Pakistani drama, the epitome of what a drama should be...Such simplistic characters. Simple humor. A simple yet deep storyline. A drama from the 80s, the clothes and hairstyles date them, but the drama could be shown today and I know people would love it. I've seen it tons of times, too many to count. I love it. The characters. Sania. Kabacha. Annie, Zahra, Bibi, Apa Begum, the Malik, Baba, etc....Enjoy the following clip from Tanhaiyan...(btw, who doesnt love nown lakah, or should I say who could possible love it?, but the idea is great)
-Rabea
The Pakistani dramas these days are so complicated, such heavy topics, heavy handed humor, such lack of simplicity, lack of class, lack of drama etiquette...I loved Tanhaiyan. Tanhaiyan was the original Pakistani drama, the epitome of what a drama should be...Such simplistic characters. Simple humor. A simple yet deep storyline. A drama from the 80s, the clothes and hairstyles date them, but the drama could be shown today and I know people would love it. I've seen it tons of times, too many to count. I love it. The characters. Sania. Kabacha. Annie, Zahra, Bibi, Apa Begum, the Malik, Baba, etc....Enjoy the following clip from Tanhaiyan...(btw, who doesnt love nown lakah, or should I say who could possible love it?, but the idea is great)
-Rabea
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Outraged
Salams,
so I know I have posted an article about Muslim leaders and their duty to the Muslim community. It is stories like the following one that make me outraged and disgusted:
http://www.buffalonews.com/home/story/424210.html
(btw I know this is an old story, but I recently found out about...I think I was living under a rock for a few years)
Third paragraph down:
Memon, an Islamic scholar and imam, has agreed to leave his post at Darul-Uloom Al-Madania, 182 Sobieski St., for a minimum of seven years. The private, Islamic secondary school and institute of higher learning is located alongside Masjid Zakariya mosque in the Broadway-Fillmore neighborhood.
REALLY???? How magnanimous of him! Keep reading the article and the man admits to his relationship with this girl and if you take Islam out of it, it's not that big of a deal...WHAT!!!???
Dear readers (or perhaps just myself), we need to as a community ask more from our leaders. If someone is going to be your spiritual leader, it is very important that his family life/personal life is public knowledge. Now I am not saying we need to know what happens everyday in their personal life, but we need to know enough to follow these people as our spiritual leaders. No, I will not put my trust in you just because you have a degree from Madina University, Al-Azhar, Islamic University of wherever....no no no. This has got to stop. Mind you, many of these scholars may have tremendous knowledge of Islam, but without character that knowledge is dangerous to us all. They are representing us! Take back your religion, and don't let these quacks take over! Really people, this guy should never be allowed to have any kind of leadership position in the community again, he should never be allowed to come near sisters of any age, and really shouldn't be allowed to come back to this school after 7 years or 100 years. I hate rants, and this has quickly become one. Sorry for ranting.
Rabea
so I know I have posted an article about Muslim leaders and their duty to the Muslim community. It is stories like the following one that make me outraged and disgusted:
http://www.buffalonews.com/home/story/424210.html
(btw I know this is an old story, but I recently found out about...I think I was living under a rock for a few years)
Headline:
Principal of Islamic school in Buffalo ousted over sex allegations
Third paragraph down:
Memon, an Islamic scholar and imam, has agreed to leave his post at Darul-Uloom Al-Madania, 182 Sobieski St., for a minimum of seven years. The private, Islamic secondary school and institute of higher learning is located alongside Masjid Zakariya mosque in the Broadway-Fillmore neighborhood.
REALLY???? How magnanimous of him! Keep reading the article and the man admits to his relationship with this girl and if you take Islam out of it, it's not that big of a deal...WHAT!!!???
Dear readers (or perhaps just myself), we need to as a community ask more from our leaders. If someone is going to be your spiritual leader, it is very important that his family life/personal life is public knowledge. Now I am not saying we need to know what happens everyday in their personal life, but we need to know enough to follow these people as our spiritual leaders. No, I will not put my trust in you just because you have a degree from Madina University, Al-Azhar, Islamic University of wherever....no no no. This has got to stop. Mind you, many of these scholars may have tremendous knowledge of Islam, but without character that knowledge is dangerous to us all. They are representing us! Take back your religion, and don't let these quacks take over! Really people, this guy should never be allowed to have any kind of leadership position in the community again, he should never be allowed to come near sisters of any age, and really shouldn't be allowed to come back to this school after 7 years or 100 years. I hate rants, and this has quickly become one. Sorry for ranting.
Rabea
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Salams,
a continuation of a discussion from a discussion group...
Some things about hijab that I feel or have felt:
Think about some of these things when you see Hijabi women, they may have felt similar things...
1-Isolationist,it can isolate Muslim women from society
2- Non-inclusionist - so to be part of a non-muslim society it doesn't seem right to wear something so opposite to the society we live in.
To qualify this statement, I think at some level it is offensive to be wearing clothing so different from the rest of society.
I always find it offensive when I go to Muslim countries and Americans are still wearing their shorts and t-shirts and speaking English loudly so the
whole neighborhood can hear.
3- An identity - I think hijab gives me an identity, makes me different from most of society. Makes me feel proud of myself for doing something that
I believe in, that is my religious duty from God.
4- Unfair in terms of the difference between Muslim men's behavior in public and a hijabi women's behavior in public. Many Muslim men who have beards, wear
religious garb, etc, in public they still don't stand out as much as Muslim women. Their interactions oftentimes with the opposite sex are very open
and some boundaries to me seem to be crossed. On the other hand, it seems that hijabis are expected to act extra careful and it seems there is a close eye
on their behavior and interaction with the opposite sex.
5- Annoying - it's very difficult to wear hijab sometimes, you need a lot of practice and it can consume a lot of your time in the morning just
putting it on.
6 - an outfit completer - so you have to be very careful with hijab colors, styles, shapes when completing your outfit, but if done right it is the perfect
outfit completer
7- Privacy - wearing hijab helps me keep some added privacy. I think people are weary of approaching hijabis and interfering in their business,
I like this aspect of hijab...
8- Respect - growing up in the south one would expect that I received a lot of denegrating looks, but rather people were rather respectful,
probably b/c I lived in a southern city that was more educated then the boondocks.
9- niqab - too isolationist - to qualify this, I think I would isolate myself too much if I wore niqab, it would
be easy to just turn inwards, others would isolate you as well b/c they would not see you as approachable
10- Many girls do not know why they are wearing hijab, it may be a rebellion thing or it may be because they feel they have to to be a good Muslim, peer pressure, parental pressure something to stick out,
11-tiring to explain why you wear it, sometimes you just want to say b/c I want to, seems much harder to explain to some Muslims than non-Muslims
12- Wearing hijab is a natural barrier from fitna in society. You generally end up staying away from haram activities b/c of your religious garb13- This barrier can be weakened by your own behavior. It all comes down to intention.
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Injustice
Salams,
People are injust to each other, it's their nature. Allah(swt) is just, it's His nature.
We will all get our due recompense. In this world or the hereafter. Do not despair. Allah (swt) is watching everything.
And a reminder mostly for myself and everyone else as well:
Surah Ghafir, Ayat 16: لِّمَنِ الْمُلْكُ الْيَوْمَ لِلَّهِ الْوَاحِدِ الْقَهَّارِ Whose is the Sovereignty this day? It is Allah's, the One, the Irresistible
-Rabea
People are injust to each other, it's their nature. Allah(swt) is just, it's His nature.
We will all get our due recompense. In this world or the hereafter. Do not despair. Allah (swt) is watching everything.
And a reminder mostly for myself and everyone else as well:
Surah Ghafir, Ayat 16: لِّمَنِ الْمُلْكُ الْيَوْمَ لِلَّهِ الْوَاحِدِ الْقَهَّارِ Whose is the Sovereignty this day? It is Allah's, the One, the Irresistible
-Rabea
Saturday, March 7, 2009
Sad wedding songs
Salams,
so today's the day for sad wedding songs...Musarrat Nazir does it best in the following song:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z5nK2rJytHo . Madhaniya...
So can't translate all of it, probably only a couple of lines, but the first two are enough to make you weep.
Basically she is saying look to who has given birth to this girl and now who is going to take her away...(much more effective in punjabi)...so skip ahead
she says, "lado - (the bride) - has become pardesi - or foreign/no longer one of us, some more sad stuff about mothers and daughters, etc
So to contrast with what goes on in weddings today, I remember meeting Dr. Israr in Pakistan when my brother got married. We went to give him a wedding invitation and a walima invitation(my brother's father in law is friends with Dr. Israr - and I sort of just tagged along), so Dr. Israr told us he can come to the walima b/c this is the sunnah, and there shouldn't be a rukhsathi b/c that is not from the sunnah. And why is the girl's family celebrating, it is a sad event for them, and they should not be burdened with the weight of the wedding.
So a continuation from the hadith that to break a woman is to divorce her, hmm well then what an important serious step it is to marry a woman. It is sad in a way b/c in many ways her future is sealed and even if she for some reason has to come out of the marriage, as the Prophet (saw) said, it will break her.
- Rabea
so today's the day for sad wedding songs...Musarrat Nazir does it best in the following song:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z5nK2rJytHo . Madhaniya...
So can't translate all of it, probably only a couple of lines, but the first two are enough to make you weep.
Basically she is saying look to who has given birth to this girl and now who is going to take her away...(much more effective in punjabi)...so skip ahead
she says, "lado - (the bride) - has become pardesi - or foreign/no longer one of us, some more sad stuff about mothers and daughters, etc
So to contrast with what goes on in weddings today, I remember meeting Dr. Israr in Pakistan when my brother got married. We went to give him a wedding invitation and a walima invitation(my brother's father in law is friends with Dr. Israr - and I sort of just tagged along), so Dr. Israr told us he can come to the walima b/c this is the sunnah, and there shouldn't be a rukhsathi b/c that is not from the sunnah. And why is the girl's family celebrating, it is a sad event for them, and they should not be burdened with the weight of the wedding.
So a continuation from the hadith that to break a woman is to divorce her, hmm well then what an important serious step it is to marry a woman. It is sad in a way b/c in many ways her future is sealed and even if she for some reason has to come out of the marriage, as the Prophet (saw) said, it will break her.
- Rabea
Friday, March 6, 2009
Sh. Muhammad Faqih
Salams,
I miss Sh. Muhammad Faqih's recitation:
http://www.icsd.org/?s=fussilat&searchbutton=search!
- Rabea
I miss Sh. Muhammad Faqih's recitation:
http://www.icsd.org/?s=fussilat&searchbutton=search!
- Rabea
Biden Baloch
Salams,
i'd like to see him try to help the Balochi people, it ought to be funny. The problem with this article is the almost literal begging that Mustikhan is doing, come on now, have some ghayrat. You are insulting your people.
http://www.balochunity.org/opinions/1981/
Rabea
i'd like to see him try to help the Balochi people, it ought to be funny. The problem with this article is the almost literal begging that Mustikhan is doing, come on now, have some ghayrat. You are insulting your people.
http://www.balochunity.org/opinions/1981/
Rabea
The Dynamics of a Relationship, part 1
Salams,
so to preface this, I often hear from people what a great wife Khadija (ra) was to the Prophet (saw), supportive, caring, believed in him (saw), it is rare to hear the story the other way around, it is sort of just assumed. So I wanted to start a discussion on they dynamics of the relationship between the Prophet (saw) and Khadija (ra).
How they met and married: So the relationship began with trust. Khadija (ra) was told that Muhammad (saw) was truthful, honest, and kind. She hired him and paid him a higher rate than others. When he returned from Syria, she noticed an increase in her money. Her hireling that went with him told her about Muhammad's (saw) good manners, honesty, sincerity, faith, etc. So wow subhanAllah it was from here that Khadija (ra) decided to marry the Prophet (saw). She told her friend Nafisa who went and told the Prophet (saw) about her wish. He(saw) accepted the proposal. So contrasting the Prophet (saw)'s behavior with his proposal to Umm Salamah (ra)- again humility. He(saw) didn't act pompous towards a sister proposing to him (saw), rather was very accepting to it, just as he showed humility when proposing to Umm Salamah (ra) - explaining to her that he (saw) was in similar circumstances as her (agewise) and her family was his (saw) - subhanAllah again you see the same level of humility. He gave Khadija (ra) the level of respect she deserved, didn't take advantage of the fact she was rich and him poor, He (saw) gave her 20 camels as her dowry, was not puffed up by the fact she was above him in terms of finances, or that she was so much older in age than him.
So insha'Allah more on this later....
Rabea
so to preface this, I often hear from people what a great wife Khadija (ra) was to the Prophet (saw), supportive, caring, believed in him (saw), it is rare to hear the story the other way around, it is sort of just assumed. So I wanted to start a discussion on they dynamics of the relationship between the Prophet (saw) and Khadija (ra).
How they met and married: So the relationship began with trust. Khadija (ra) was told that Muhammad (saw) was truthful, honest, and kind. She hired him and paid him a higher rate than others. When he returned from Syria, she noticed an increase in her money. Her hireling that went with him told her about Muhammad's (saw) good manners, honesty, sincerity, faith, etc. So wow subhanAllah it was from here that Khadija (ra) decided to marry the Prophet (saw). She told her friend Nafisa who went and told the Prophet (saw) about her wish. He(saw) accepted the proposal. So contrasting the Prophet (saw)'s behavior with his proposal to Umm Salamah (ra)- again humility. He(saw) didn't act pompous towards a sister proposing to him (saw), rather was very accepting to it, just as he showed humility when proposing to Umm Salamah (ra) - explaining to her that he (saw) was in similar circumstances as her (agewise) and her family was his (saw) - subhanAllah again you see the same level of humility. He gave Khadija (ra) the level of respect she deserved, didn't take advantage of the fact she was rich and him poor, He (saw) gave her 20 camels as her dowry, was not puffed up by the fact she was above him in terms of finances, or that she was so much older in age than him.
So insha'Allah more on this later....
Rabea
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Judge a book by it's cover.
salams,
so I've been staring at this copy of Islam: Past, Present, & Future by Hans Kung for several months. I've wanted to read it for several months now, but I havent brought myself to even read a page yet. It has a very simple yet attractive cover. White with a black crescent and black and goldish writing on it. So yesterday I almost started to read it, but then I though hmm let me read some reviews on it online, so I did that instead. Generally I judge books by their covers, sounds superficial but heck I'm a female- details are important. The simplicity of the cover of this book attracts me to it, so hmm I think today will be day I read a couple of pages, or maybe not...
Rabea
so I've been staring at this copy of Islam: Past, Present, & Future by Hans Kung for several months. I've wanted to read it for several months now, but I havent brought myself to even read a page yet. It has a very simple yet attractive cover. White with a black crescent and black and goldish writing on it. So yesterday I almost started to read it, but then I though hmm let me read some reviews on it online, so I did that instead. Generally I judge books by their covers, sounds superficial but heck I'm a female- details are important. The simplicity of the cover of this book attracts me to it, so hmm I think today will be day I read a couple of pages, or maybe not...
Rabea
A Crooked Rib
Salams,
Hadith #1:
Abu Huraira (Allaah be pleased with him) reported: Woman has been created from a rib and will in no way be straightened for you; so if you wish to benefit by her, benefit by her while crookedness remains in her. And if you attempt to straighten her, you will break her, and breaking her is divorcing her.
Hadith #2:
Abu Huraira (Allaah be pleased with him) reported Allaah's Prophet (sallAllaahu alayhi wa sallam) as saying: He who believes in Allaah and the Hereafter, if he witnesses any matter he should talk in good terms about it or keep quiet. Act kindly towards woman, for woman is created from a rib, and the most crooked part of the rib is its top. If you attempt to straighten it, you will break it, and if you leave it, its crookedness will remain there. So act kindly towards women.
Ya so I think many women are offended by these ahadith regarding their comparison with a crooked rib...really subhanAllah? I think it really helps me to understand myself and other women. Why is there such an emphasis in society about men controlling women and having them do things against their will, it generally is not emphasized the other way around...this is due in large part to the control that men naturally have over women, but the unnatural control that some men have over women is what I think this hadith is referring to. The Prophet (saw) is urging men to be kind to women and really leaving them be, because I think men have an innate ability to want to straighten something to their liking, and the Prophet (saw) is urging them not to do this because this will only break the woman.
This reminds me of a scene from the movie Pinjar. (pinjar=cage). So this man kidnaps a girl and marries her against her will. At the end of the movie she has the opportunity to go back with her family and marry the person she was supposed to marry to begin with, her response: she cries and runs back to the man who has kidnapped her. So she doesnt want to leave the man who was so cruel to her (but now she loves him), b/c she is married to him, wow how powerful. And her ex-fiancee tells her brother to leave her with the man b/c if she is uprooted again she will be broken as a person.
so lesson: don't break a woman, it will break society. (lol I skipped ahead there, left some thoughts out, just wanted to get to the lesson)
Rabea
Hadith #1:
Abu Huraira (Allaah be pleased with him) reported: Woman has been created from a rib and will in no way be straightened for you; so if you wish to benefit by her, benefit by her while crookedness remains in her. And if you attempt to straighten her, you will break her, and breaking her is divorcing her.
Hadith #2:
Abu Huraira (Allaah be pleased with him) reported Allaah's Prophet (sallAllaahu alayhi wa sallam) as saying: He who believes in Allaah and the Hereafter, if he witnesses any matter he should talk in good terms about it or keep quiet. Act kindly towards woman, for woman is created from a rib, and the most crooked part of the rib is its top. If you attempt to straighten it, you will break it, and if you leave it, its crookedness will remain there. So act kindly towards women.
Ya so I think many women are offended by these ahadith regarding their comparison with a crooked rib...really subhanAllah? I think it really helps me to understand myself and other women. Why is there such an emphasis in society about men controlling women and having them do things against their will, it generally is not emphasized the other way around...this is due in large part to the control that men naturally have over women, but the unnatural control that some men have over women is what I think this hadith is referring to. The Prophet (saw) is urging men to be kind to women and really leaving them be, because I think men have an innate ability to want to straighten something to their liking, and the Prophet (saw) is urging them not to do this because this will only break the woman.
This reminds me of a scene from the movie Pinjar. (pinjar=cage). So this man kidnaps a girl and marries her against her will. At the end of the movie she has the opportunity to go back with her family and marry the person she was supposed to marry to begin with, her response: she cries and runs back to the man who has kidnapped her. So she doesnt want to leave the man who was so cruel to her (but now she loves him), b/c she is married to him, wow how powerful. And her ex-fiancee tells her brother to leave her with the man b/c if she is uprooted again she will be broken as a person.
so lesson: don't break a woman, it will break society. (lol I skipped ahead there, left some thoughts out, just wanted to get to the lesson)
Rabea
Umm Salamah cont.
Salams,
so lessons from Umm Salamah's life
1. Have sabr, put your trust in Allah, and Allah will provide for you and plan what is best for you.
2. Umm salamah remembered the prayer her husband had quoted on his deathbed from the Prophet and began repeating it, "O Lord, with you I leave this my plight for consideration..." But she could not bring herself to continue..."O Lord give me something better from it", because she kept asking herself, "Who could be better than Abu Salamah?" But she eventually completed the supplication. Always continue to make dua to Allah even if you do not know where/what your khair will be.
3. Umm Salamah was in Madinah at the time of her husband's death. She had no family of her own there. She said about herself, "I am a stranger in a strange place." The Prophet (saw) advised her not to weep publicly. Why he (saw) asked her not to weep publicly I don't know, perhaps it was because he did not want the morale of the people to come down. I'd like to think it was because crying is something done privately, not a show for all to see, it is beneficial when it is amongst close friends or when it is between you and your Creator. I dont know if you have ever been a stranger in a strange place, but I sure have, and it isn't fun. It is something you have to deal with sabr, dua, and close friends.
4. When she had completed the iddah (three months and ten days), Abu Bakr proposed marriage to her but she refused. Then Umar asked to marry her but she also declined the proposal. The Prophet then approached her... Hmm...the best Muslims of the community proposed to her? Brothers is there a lesson here? In today's Muslim societies it seems that widows are given especially poor treatment. SubhanAllah, Umm Salama was proposed to by first the best friend of the Prophet (saw), then Umar (ra), and then the Prophet (saw) himself. Lesson - follow the sunnah of the Prophet (saw) and his (saw) companions, you will never go wrong.
5. The Prophet then approached her and she replied, "O Messenger of Allah, I have three characteristics. I am a woman who is extremely jealous and I am afraid that you will see in me something that will anger you and cause Allah to punish me. I am a woman who is already advanced in age and I am a woman who has a young family."
The Prophet replied:
"Regarding the jealousy you mentioned, I pray to Allah the Almighty to let it go away from you. Regarding the question of age you have mentioned, I am afflicted with the same problem as you. Regarding the dependent family you have mentioned, your family is my family." So ok wow, subhanaAllah, only the Messenger of Allah could be this awesome. Umm Salamah's first statement of how she is jealous and she does not want to do anything that will anger the Prophet (saw) and hence cause Allah to punish me, well wow, you have to have some taqwah to say that. It would seem that she would just jump at the chance of marrying the Prophet (saw), sort of like a ticket to heaven, but rather she realizes her shortcomings and does not want them to lead her into being punished by Allah.
She is worried she is older in age. The Prophet (saw) basically replies that he is older in age as well. In today's day and age it seems that older men want younger women. This is an example of the graciousness of the Prophet(saw), his(saw) humility. It also seems like worries of the past are the same worries of today. Women are still worried about superficial things such as their beauty, age, etc, and well it is even more so in today's society as men are becoming increasingly superficial as well in terms of who they want to marry.
So the last part about her young family and the Prophet (saw) saying, "your family is my family."
This reminds of me of a verse from the Bible, But Ruth said, "Do not urge me to leave you or turn back from following you; for where you go, I will go, and where you lodge, I will lodge. Your people shall be my people, and your God, my God."
In today's day and age, no one wants baggage, no one wants to accept someone else's children. SubhanAllah the Prophet (saw) could have said many things regarding the children, but what kinder words could he have used than saying that her family is his family. Acceptance of them as his (saw) own.
I hope insh'Allah you can benefit from the story of Umm Salamah.
-Rabea
so lessons from Umm Salamah's life
1. Have sabr, put your trust in Allah, and Allah will provide for you and plan what is best for you.
2. Umm salamah remembered the prayer her husband had quoted on his deathbed from the Prophet and began repeating it, "O Lord, with you I leave this my plight for consideration..." But she could not bring herself to continue..."O Lord give me something better from it", because she kept asking herself, "Who could be better than Abu Salamah?" But she eventually completed the supplication. Always continue to make dua to Allah even if you do not know where/what your khair will be.
3. Umm Salamah was in Madinah at the time of her husband's death. She had no family of her own there. She said about herself, "I am a stranger in a strange place." The Prophet (saw) advised her not to weep publicly. Why he (saw) asked her not to weep publicly I don't know, perhaps it was because he did not want the morale of the people to come down. I'd like to think it was because crying is something done privately, not a show for all to see, it is beneficial when it is amongst close friends or when it is between you and your Creator. I dont know if you have ever been a stranger in a strange place, but I sure have, and it isn't fun. It is something you have to deal with sabr, dua, and close friends.
4. When she had completed the iddah (three months and ten days), Abu Bakr proposed marriage to her but she refused. Then Umar asked to marry her but she also declined the proposal. The Prophet then approached her... Hmm...the best Muslims of the community proposed to her? Brothers is there a lesson here? In today's Muslim societies it seems that widows are given especially poor treatment. SubhanAllah, Umm Salama was proposed to by first the best friend of the Prophet (saw), then Umar (ra), and then the Prophet (saw) himself. Lesson - follow the sunnah of the Prophet (saw) and his (saw) companions, you will never go wrong.
5. The Prophet then approached her and she replied, "O Messenger of Allah, I have three characteristics. I am a woman who is extremely jealous and I am afraid that you will see in me something that will anger you and cause Allah to punish me. I am a woman who is already advanced in age and I am a woman who has a young family."
The Prophet replied:
"Regarding the jealousy you mentioned, I pray to Allah the Almighty to let it go away from you. Regarding the question of age you have mentioned, I am afflicted with the same problem as you. Regarding the dependent family you have mentioned, your family is my family." So ok wow, subhanaAllah, only the Messenger of Allah could be this awesome. Umm Salamah's first statement of how she is jealous and she does not want to do anything that will anger the Prophet (saw) and hence cause Allah to punish me, well wow, you have to have some taqwah to say that. It would seem that she would just jump at the chance of marrying the Prophet (saw), sort of like a ticket to heaven, but rather she realizes her shortcomings and does not want them to lead her into being punished by Allah.
She is worried she is older in age. The Prophet (saw) basically replies that he is older in age as well. In today's day and age it seems that older men want younger women. This is an example of the graciousness of the Prophet(saw), his(saw) humility. It also seems like worries of the past are the same worries of today. Women are still worried about superficial things such as their beauty, age, etc, and well it is even more so in today's society as men are becoming increasingly superficial as well in terms of who they want to marry.
So the last part about her young family and the Prophet (saw) saying, "your family is my family."
This reminds of me of a verse from the Bible, But Ruth said, "Do not urge me to leave you or turn back from following you; for where you go, I will go, and where you lodge, I will lodge. Your people shall be my people, and your God, my God."
In today's day and age, no one wants baggage, no one wants to accept someone else's children. SubhanAllah the Prophet (saw) could have said many things regarding the children, but what kinder words could he have used than saying that her family is his family. Acceptance of them as his (saw) own.
I hope insh'Allah you can benefit from the story of Umm Salamah.
-Rabea
Umm Salamah, Lost something or want to get married again?
Umm Salamah said, "I heard the Messenger of God saying,
'Whenever a calamity afflicts anyone he should say, "Surely from God we are and to Him we shall certainly return.' And he would pray, 'O Lord, give me in return something better from it which only You, Exalted, and Might, can give.'"
Umm Salamah's husband, Abu Salamah, died from wounds he had endured in the Battle of Uhud. This was the dua that Umm Salamah would say. And surely Allah did return something better from it, which was her marriage to the Prophet (saw), and I am sure countless other blessings. There are many lessons to be learned from Umm Salamah's story that I will expand on in another post.
This is also the same dua I say when I lose something. 100% of the time I either find what I have lost or it is replaced with something much much better, something that I cant even fathom at the time of the loss. At the time of losing something you are just so upset because you want to find that object, whether it be your keys, a gold ring, papers, etc. You can't think very far in advance. You dont know what Allah (swt) has planned for you. And surely Allah (swt) is the Best of Planners.
-Rabea
'Whenever a calamity afflicts anyone he should say, "Surely from God we are and to Him we shall certainly return.' And he would pray, 'O Lord, give me in return something better from it which only You, Exalted, and Might, can give.'"
Umm Salamah's husband, Abu Salamah, died from wounds he had endured in the Battle of Uhud. This was the dua that Umm Salamah would say. And surely Allah did return something better from it, which was her marriage to the Prophet (saw), and I am sure countless other blessings. There are many lessons to be learned from Umm Salamah's story that I will expand on in another post.
This is also the same dua I say when I lose something. 100% of the time I either find what I have lost or it is replaced with something much much better, something that I cant even fathom at the time of the loss. At the time of losing something you are just so upset because you want to find that object, whether it be your keys, a gold ring, papers, etc. You can't think very far in advance. You dont know what Allah (swt) has planned for you. And surely Allah (swt) is the Best of Planners.
-Rabea
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Aadil Khan
Salams,
So as I am trying to avoid studying I keep posting new blogs.
As a contrast to Muzzammil Hassan's case, there is Aadil Khan.
http://www.newsobserver.com/news/crime_safety/story/1341674.html .
A 17 year old Muslim boy accused of murdering his friend. The details seem gruesome. Tarot cards. Garbage Bags. Drugs. Hammer. Duct Tape.
However gruesome and compelling the case seems so far, my jury is still out. This is simply because I know his family, and have met this kid before. I can't claim to know his exact involvement in this case, but I do know his parents are extremely decent, kind people. I find it so difficult to believe that their son would be involved in something so awful. On the flip side, it seems like he was in the wrong crowd of friends. And that as you know can be slippery slope. Once again I am reacting, but I do feel like so many of our youth are slipping through the cracks, or perhaps the gaping holes.
It seems like Muslims are turning more and more inward, more secluded, less willing to help others, and a lot less willing to create a community atmosphere.
More on this later, got to go study now.
Rabea
So as I am trying to avoid studying I keep posting new blogs.
As a contrast to Muzzammil Hassan's case, there is Aadil Khan.
http://www.newsobserver.com/news/crime_safety/story/1341674.html .
A 17 year old Muslim boy accused of murdering his friend. The details seem gruesome. Tarot cards. Garbage Bags. Drugs. Hammer. Duct Tape.
However gruesome and compelling the case seems so far, my jury is still out. This is simply because I know his family, and have met this kid before. I can't claim to know his exact involvement in this case, but I do know his parents are extremely decent, kind people. I find it so difficult to believe that their son would be involved in something so awful. On the flip side, it seems like he was in the wrong crowd of friends. And that as you know can be slippery slope. Once again I am reacting, but I do feel like so many of our youth are slipping through the cracks, or perhaps the gaping holes.
It seems like Muslims are turning more and more inward, more secluded, less willing to help others, and a lot less willing to create a community atmosphere.
More on this later, got to go study now.
Rabea
Conscience anyone?
Salams,
I guess I am a little irritated about the conversation surrounding Muzzammil Hassan. In my present state of mind I have already had his trial in my mind, me - the judge, jury, and executioner. And he is guilty. Guilty of what? I can't claim to know the particulars of the crime and how he did what, and even if he actually committed the murder. But he is guilty. He is the representation to me of what has gone way wrong in the Muslim community. From what I have read about him, he was on his third marriage, an abusive personality, a controlling personality, and on top of that had a respected place in Muslim community as the head of the Muslim channel Bridges TV. How awful.
Well sisters, it's a man's world. If women were out doing one-tenth of what the Muslim men are doing out there, we would have been tried by now, and we would be guilty, and no one would give you a second look. Men or women of the Muslim community.
So I may be reacting, or I may be over reacting, but today I am taking a stance. I am not going to support leaders of our community anymore without extensive knowledge about their character and behavior especially with their own families. It absolutely horrifies me the trust we put in our Muslim leaders, without questioning their character. Now I know you should not doubt your Muslim brothers and sisters, and you know the whole gamut. This is not doubt. This is my right to know. It is my right to know if a scholar has good character or not. I do not want to read anymore about anyones' credentials. I want to know about something a lot more abstract, something I will probably never know, but I reserve the right to judge someone as I see fit.
Rabea
I guess I am a little irritated about the conversation surrounding Muzzammil Hassan. In my present state of mind I have already had his trial in my mind, me - the judge, jury, and executioner. And he is guilty. Guilty of what? I can't claim to know the particulars of the crime and how he did what, and even if he actually committed the murder. But he is guilty. He is the representation to me of what has gone way wrong in the Muslim community. From what I have read about him, he was on his third marriage, an abusive personality, a controlling personality, and on top of that had a respected place in Muslim community as the head of the Muslim channel Bridges TV. How awful.
Well sisters, it's a man's world. If women were out doing one-tenth of what the Muslim men are doing out there, we would have been tried by now, and we would be guilty, and no one would give you a second look. Men or women of the Muslim community.
So I may be reacting, or I may be over reacting, but today I am taking a stance. I am not going to support leaders of our community anymore without extensive knowledge about their character and behavior especially with their own families. It absolutely horrifies me the trust we put in our Muslim leaders, without questioning their character. Now I know you should not doubt your Muslim brothers and sisters, and you know the whole gamut. This is not doubt. This is my right to know. It is my right to know if a scholar has good character or not. I do not want to read anymore about anyones' credentials. I want to know about something a lot more abstract, something I will probably never know, but I reserve the right to judge someone as I see fit.
Rabea
North and South
salams,
whoever out there hasn't seen North and South, needs to see it. It's a great movie, mini series, who doesn't like Richard Armitage, I dont know??! (although his acting in Robinhood, the mini series from BBC was not so good). But still if you are into the old British genre, and want to see something with more substance than the subjects covered in Jane Austen novels, then this is the right movie for you. You will probably have to buy it online, but I believe you can watch it on youtube.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/North_and_South_(2004_mini-series)
Some quotes from the movie:
Hannah Thornton: A mother's love holds fast and forever. A girl's love is like a puff of smoke - it changes with every wind.
Margaret Hale: I believe I've seen hell and it's white, it's snow white. (I often feel this way about the snow here in Chicago)
To preface the following conversation, John wants to propose marriage to Margaret, but she is quite stubborn and well annoying. Whenever a guy proposes to her she always starts with please stop. Sort of an uber annoying feminist. As you follow the conversation you slowly realize that Margaret makes no sense.
John Thornton: Miss Hale, I didn't just come here to thank you. I came... because... I think it... very likely... I know I've never found myself in this position before. It's... difficult to find the words. Miss Hale, my feelings for you... are very strong...
Margaret Hale: Please! Stop. Pray, please don't go any further.
John Thornton: Excuse me?
Margaret Hale: Please don't continue in that way. It's not the way of a gentleman.
John Thornton: I'm well aware that in your eyes at least, I'm not a gentleman. But I think I deserve to know why I am offensive.
Margaret Hale: It offends me that you should speak to me as if it were your... duty to rescue my reputation!
John Thornton: I spoke to you about my feelings because I love you; I had no thought for your reputation!
Margaret Hale: You think that because you are rich, and my father is in... reduced circumstances, that you can have me for your possession! I suppose I should expect no less from someone in trade!
John Thornton: I don't want to possess you! I wish to marry you because I love you!
Margaret Hale: You shouldn't! Because I do not like you, and never have.
John Thornton: One minute we talk of the colour of fruit, the next of love. How does that happen?
Margaret Hale: My friend, Bessy Higgins, is dying.
John Thornton: And that of course, is my fault too.
Margaret Hale: I'm sorry.
John Thornton: For what? That you find my feelings for you offensive? Or that you assume because I'm in trade I'm only capable of thinking in terms of buying and selling? Or that I take pleasure in sending my employees to an early grave?
Margaret Hale: No! No, no, of course not. I'm... I'm sorry... to be so blunt. I've not learnt how to... how to refuse... how to respond when a... when a man talks to me as you just have.
John Thornton: Oh, there are others? This happens to you every day. Of course. You must have to disappoint so many men that offer you their heart.
Margaret Hale: Please, understand Mr. Thornton...
John Thornton: I do understand. I understand you completely.
whoever out there hasn't seen North and South, needs to see it. It's a great movie, mini series, who doesn't like Richard Armitage, I dont know??! (although his acting in Robinhood, the mini series from BBC was not so good). But still if you are into the old British genre, and want to see something with more substance than the subjects covered in Jane Austen novels, then this is the right movie for you. You will probably have to buy it online, but I believe you can watch it on youtube.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/North_and_South_(2004_mini-series)
Some quotes from the movie:
Hannah Thornton: A mother's love holds fast and forever. A girl's love is like a puff of smoke - it changes with every wind.
Margaret Hale: I believe I've seen hell and it's white, it's snow white. (I often feel this way about the snow here in Chicago)
To preface the following conversation, John wants to propose marriage to Margaret, but she is quite stubborn and well annoying. Whenever a guy proposes to her she always starts with please stop. Sort of an uber annoying feminist. As you follow the conversation you slowly realize that Margaret makes no sense.
John Thornton: Miss Hale, I didn't just come here to thank you. I came... because... I think it... very likely... I know I've never found myself in this position before. It's... difficult to find the words. Miss Hale, my feelings for you... are very strong...
Margaret Hale: Please! Stop. Pray, please don't go any further.
John Thornton: Excuse me?
Margaret Hale: Please don't continue in that way. It's not the way of a gentleman.
John Thornton: I'm well aware that in your eyes at least, I'm not a gentleman. But I think I deserve to know why I am offensive.
Margaret Hale: It offends me that you should speak to me as if it were your... duty to rescue my reputation!
John Thornton: I spoke to you about my feelings because I love you; I had no thought for your reputation!
Margaret Hale: You think that because you are rich, and my father is in... reduced circumstances, that you can have me for your possession! I suppose I should expect no less from someone in trade!
John Thornton: I don't want to possess you! I wish to marry you because I love you!
Margaret Hale: You shouldn't! Because I do not like you, and never have.
John Thornton: One minute we talk of the colour of fruit, the next of love. How does that happen?
Margaret Hale: My friend, Bessy Higgins, is dying.
John Thornton: And that of course, is my fault too.
Margaret Hale: I'm sorry.
John Thornton: For what? That you find my feelings for you offensive? Or that you assume because I'm in trade I'm only capable of thinking in terms of buying and selling? Or that I take pleasure in sending my employees to an early grave?
Margaret Hale: No! No, no, of course not. I'm... I'm sorry... to be so blunt. I've not learnt how to... how to refuse... how to respond when a... when a man talks to me as you just have.
John Thornton: Oh, there are others? This happens to you every day. Of course. You must have to disappoint so many men that offer you their heart.
Margaret Hale: Please, understand Mr. Thornton...
John Thornton: I do understand. I understand you completely.
Monday, March 2, 2009
More Seraiki Culture
Salams,
so more seraiki culture. This blog is slowly becoming a place for me to post wacko stuff about Multani culture, I cant help it, it is just hilarious. (just to make clear, i'm making fun at my own culture, i love being from the multani culture, and heck if you can't laugh at yourself, who can you laugh at - so multani ppl out there - i know ya'll have a lot to complain and get upset about, but pleae dont let this be one of them!)
So if you would like to hear some more songs complaining and whining about life, please follow the following link and listen to them (you probably wont understand them unless you know seraiki- i can barely get them, but they sound like they are whining and that is enough for me to laugh! I love it!)
http://www.wasaib.com/
rabea
so more seraiki culture. This blog is slowly becoming a place for me to post wacko stuff about Multani culture, I cant help it, it is just hilarious. (just to make clear, i'm making fun at my own culture, i love being from the multani culture, and heck if you can't laugh at yourself, who can you laugh at - so multani ppl out there - i know ya'll have a lot to complain and get upset about, but pleae dont let this be one of them!)
So if you would like to hear some more songs complaining and whining about life, please follow the following link and listen to them (you probably wont understand them unless you know seraiki- i can barely get them, but they sound like they are whining and that is enough for me to laugh! I love it!)
http://www.wasaib.com/
rabea
Feel the softness and Taste the Sweetness ?
http://www.himultani.com/test/art.php
learn all you want about multan, and remember to feel the softness.
lol, need i say more?
learn all you want about multan, and remember to feel the softness.
lol, need i say more?
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Seraiki/Multani
So today a conversation today reminded of the sweet nature of the Multani language (Seraiki). A description of the language itself is that it is a "sweet language." My parents both speak Multani, a language spoken predominantly by people of Multan and the surrounding areas. It is a very polite language and oftentimes a very indirect language.
The first time I realized how polite of a language it is was a conversation I overheard between my cousin and his mom at the dinner table. Instead of asking her if she wanted salt/pepper, he asked his mom what could be roughly translated as, "Mom, would you like the presence of salt/pepper at the table?"
Generally speaking nothing is asked directly, I once asked my uncle how would ask someone what they have eaten today. He started laughing, and said, "Don't ever ask anyone what they have eaten, that is considered very rude in Multani culture. If you want to know what they have eaten, offer them food, and they might tell you what they have eaten, otherwise do not every ask."
More on Multani/Seraiki culture later. For now you can hear this multani song: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EXm3ApKs1x4&feature=related
Try and ignore the weird men dancing. How you can ignore them is beyond me.
The first time I realized how polite of a language it is was a conversation I overheard between my cousin and his mom at the dinner table. Instead of asking her if she wanted salt/pepper, he asked his mom what could be roughly translated as, "Mom, would you like the presence of salt/pepper at the table?"
Generally speaking nothing is asked directly, I once asked my uncle how would ask someone what they have eaten today. He started laughing, and said, "Don't ever ask anyone what they have eaten, that is considered very rude in Multani culture. If you want to know what they have eaten, offer them food, and they might tell you what they have eaten, otherwise do not every ask."
More on Multani/Seraiki culture later. For now you can hear this multani song: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EXm3ApKs1x4&feature=related
Try and ignore the weird men dancing. How you can ignore them is beyond me.
Old Friends
We don't meet people by accident. We don't become friends by accident. There is a plan behind everything. Whenever I meet old friends I try and think what is the hikmah behind this meeting, what can I learn, what can I give, how to make the best of this occasion. Just the sight of an old friend can put your heart at rest.
I met some old friends today, in my heart I knew I was missing them, not until I saw them did I know meeting with them today was the right thing to do. I needed the connection, I needed the comfort of their words, and the comfort of their company. I am thankful for the opportunity.
A tribute to old friends: http://www.esnips.com/doc/a6f9da54-8281-4149-829d-eb2d3b26d42c/Attaullah-Khan---Eh-Theva
I met some old friends today, in my heart I knew I was missing them, not until I saw them did I know meeting with them today was the right thing to do. I needed the connection, I needed the comfort of their words, and the comfort of their company. I am thankful for the opportunity.
A tribute to old friends: http://www.esnips.com/doc/a6f9da54-8281-4149-829d-eb2d3b26d42c/Attaullah-Khan---Eh-Theva
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