Editorial Al-Haqq Newsletter April 2007 June 2007

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2 Editorial Al-Haqq Newsletter April 2007 June 2007 Editorial Address Islamic Humanitarian Service Attention: Editor of Al-Haqq 81 Hollinger Crescent Kitchener, Ontario Canada, N2K-2Y8 Tel: Fax: Al-Haqq contains verses of the Qur`an, Ahaadith and the names of sacred personalities. Please take care when handling this magazine, and dispose of in the appropriate manner. Old copies can be returned to the Islamic Humanitarian Service for recycling/re-use. Y In the Name of All{h, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful Bestowing a knighthood, by the British Government, on Rushdie, author of the blasphemous book Satanic Verses, is the latest move by western colonial powers to insult the noble faith of Islam. The act must have been thought out long and hard by the British, so to have protests will not alter the decision, although Muslims have a religious duty to oppose injustice. Cartoons appearing in European newspapers mocking the blessed Prophet of All{h, the banning of Islamic attire by a number of nations, articles in newspapers or radio talk shows inciting people to hate Muslims or the faith of Islam, trying to force a young Canadian Muslima to shun her Hijab in order to participate in sports, are all recent examples of a trend taking place to build public opinion against Muslims. Once popular opinion is against Islam, the various governments of the day can do whatever they want against Islam, and there will be no one to raise even an eyebrow. We see this presently, when detainees are locked up in USA, including Guantanamo Bay, Canada or the United Kingdom without any charge laid against them, no evidence presented to a judge or legal authority proving that the detainees are a threat. Yet, no voice is raised to oppose these illegalities. A few murmurs are uttered by selected human rights organizations and some lawyers, but on the whole, there is a deafening silence. Public opinion has been swayed, and so there are more noises heard when a dog gets killed by a drunk driver, than when an entire family is wiped out in Afghanistan by a trigger happy airman with a bomb. American lives and casualities make headlines in the western media, with each count given daily, but the average American does not even know how many Iraqis or Afghanis have been murdered during and after the American invasion. Sacred shrines are deliberately damaged, most recently again in Samarra, Iraq, but there is no rush by the world community to apprehend the culprits and re-build the shrine. Imagine if a synagogue or church had been destroyed. What would have been the reaction by the western nations?? Western lives and western sentiments seem to hold a lot more value at the United Nations, NATO and elsewhere. Muslim lives and sentiments don t really matter, even if the same Muslims are in the West. As stressed in the last Editorial, Muslims will have to secure their rights themselves. They will have to get active politically, socially, and economically in order to ensure their voice heard loud and clear. The voice must reflect that of all the oppressed. May Allah, the Exalted, hasten the return of our Awaited Imam (AS) to establish justice throughout the world. Sincerely, Shafiq Hudda - Editor

3 AL-HAQQ NEWSLETTER 1 Muslim World News From our team of Al-Haqq Correspondents IHS Annual Meeting Delegates and volunteers gathered at the IHS Centre in Kitchener during the first weekend of June to participate in the Annual General Meeting of the Service. Participants discussed the past year, along with the challenges that had been faced and planned for a better current year, Insha-Allah. Each division head presented their annual reports. Sr. Shaheen Pardhan, Chair of the United Muslim Women of Canada, spoke of the groups work in 2006; Br. Ali Asgher Ali, head of the Muslim Youth Association, outlined the obstacles he faced last year following the move of former MYA head Br. Zaheer Abbas Karim to Dubai, and hoped that this year will be better for the youth group. Shaikh Saleem Bhimji updated members on the new books published last year, in addition to the web site of the IHS that he maintains. Regular and updated information will allow the general public to be more aware of the IHS activities, and perhaps increase donations, he added. K-W Building Project Update Following the land purchase to build a new Islamic Centre last year, the Executive Committee of the Islamic Shia Ithna-Asheri Jamaat of Kitchener- Waterloo has appointed a Fund Raising/Building sub- Committee to oversee the project. Jamaat President Br. Sarfraz Jamat, in announcing the appointment, expressed his optimism that the project will move forward faster. The newly-appointed sub-committee consists of Br. Asgher Kapasi, Dr. Mohamed Abbas Hussein, Br. Salim Somji, and Br. Shahnawaz Jamal. A meeting to update Jamaat members was held at Goody 2 Chews, a local health sweet company founded by Br. Shahnawaz Jamal, at the end of June. Br. Asgher Kapasi outlined the tentative plans of the proposed building, while Br. Salim Somji spoke of the fund raising plans of the sub-committee. Dr. Mohamed Hussein chaired the session. Last Muharram, a $2 campaign was launched to encourage all, including youngsters, to contribute towards the project, which is expected to costs a total of $1,200,000 of which the land cost was $650,000 and the building is expected to costs approximately the same. The previous Centre on Fifth Avenue was sold for $235,000 and most of the proceeds went towards paying the land. The Jamaat web site has details about the $2 campaign, and can be visited at kw.org. Al- Haqq readers wishing to make a contribution towards t his project are invited to do so, either on the web site, or by mailing a cheque to: Islamic Shia Ithna-Asheri Jamaat of KW P.O. Box 20065, Pioneer Park Postal Outlet Kitchener, Ontario, N2P 2B4, CANADA All donations to the Jamaat are tax-deductible, and an official receipt will be issued. A separate account at the Royal Bank of Canada has been set up to look after donations and expenditures relating to the building project. NASIMCO Meeting For the first time, community leaders from across North America gathered in Ottawa for the Annual General Meeting of the North American Shia Ithna- Asheri Muslim Communities Organization during the weekend of June 23-24, The original invitation was extended to NASIMCO by Ottawa Jamaat Program Organizer Br. Gulam Abbas Sikiladha, and guests were

4 2 AL-HAQQ NEWSLETTER welcomed to the gathering by Jamaat President Br. Jaffer Jafri. NASIMCO President Haji Br. Hussein Walji, of Minneapolis, appreciated the hosts and began the meeting on Saturday morning with the business at hand, including the approval of the previous years Minutes and Financial Statements. Br. Habib Dhalla, Secretary-General of the Organization, from Edmonton, chaired the meeting held at the Imambara on Richmond Road. Representatives came from Minneapolis, Toronto, Kitchener, Edmonton, Orlando, New York, Los Angeles, Vancouver, London (Ontario), and the host Jamaat of Ottawa. Dr. Shiraz Datoo, Director of NASIMCO, based in Toronto, coordinated the participation of attending members at the gathering. COMMUNITY ELECTIONS Many of the communities had elections over the past few months. Some of the results that Al-Haqq Newsletter was able to obtain are as follow: Toronto Jamaat Election Following elections earlier this year, the below mentioned individuals were elected to serve the Islamic Shia Ithna-Asheri Jamaat of Toronto for the term : President: Br. Razak Damani Vice-President: Br. Ali Dhirani Secretary: Br. Mohamed Arif Asaria Treasurer: Br. Mohsin Khimji Mukhi: Br. Ejaz Hussein Merali Elected Member: Br. Hassnain Jiwan Elected Member: Br. Shafiq Punjani Elected Member: Sr. Sukeyna Khalfan Chairlady: Sr: Zarina Bharwani Seniors Head: Shrin Sumar Edmonton Jamaat Election Members elected to serve the Islamic Shia Ithna- Asheri Association of Edmonton for the term , are hereinafter: President: Br. Mohamed Hussein Dhalla Vice-President President: Br. Syed Ihtesham Ali Hon. Secretary: Mohamed Jamal Hon. Treasurer: Br. Syed Amanat Imam Program Organizer : Br. Akbar Bhimji Vancouver Jamaat Election Below are those elected to serve the Shia Muslim community of British Columbia for the two-year term : President: Br. Akber Mithani Vice ce-president: Br. Asgar Virji Secretary: Br. Azeem Moledina Treasurer: Br. Hasnain A. Dewji Public Relations: Br. Michael Symons Religious Affair: Hussein Bhojani Maintenance : Br. Mohammed Bhimani Internal Affairs: Br. Mahmood A. Jaffer Winnipeg Jamaat Election The following executive committee members were elected at the annual general assembly meeting of the Husaini Association Of Manitoba Inc. held in Winnipeg, on June 9, President: Jamshaid Ali Mirza First Vice President: Dr. Mojtaba Mohaddes Second Vice President: Taqi Sharifi Secretary: Shireen Rizvi Associate Secretary: Mona Syed Treasurer: Syed Tanvir Haider Member At Large: Naim Karimi The executive appointed the following member as the auditor. Auditor: S.M. Wasi Rizvi Al-Haqq congratulates all those elected to serve the community. May the Almighty grant us the ability to serve sincerely, for the benefit of Islam.

5 AL-HAQQ NEWSLETTER 3 AL-HAQQ EXCLUSIVE ARTICLE Mosque Burns Arson Suspected The Almighty All{h i says in the Holy Qur`an: Worship God and do not ascribe any partners to Him, and be good to parents, the relatives, the orphans, the needy, the near neighbor and the distant neighbor. (4:36) On the Isl{mic holy day of Friday April 13 th, 2007 through a CAIR broadcast, we learned that an Isl{mic Mosque and school was torched on Thursday April 12 th by arsonist in the neighboring city of Tampa, in the state of Florida. Florida has experienced an increasing number of anti-muslim incidents - an average of over 100 cases per year. Within a day, the Tampa office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Tampa) held a news conference to announce a reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of arsonists who torched a local mosque. A bank account was opened for well wishers to donate towards the reward and the renovation of the center. Within days Muslims and non-muslims donated about $12, for the cause. On Sunday April 22 nd, a member of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops toured the burned out mosque, denouncing the crime. The Rev. Francis Tiso called his stop at the mosque, a sign of solidarity and said, It gives me a perfect opportunity to visit and express solidarity with the Muslim community here and to let people know that the Catholic Church is standing with any house of worship that is being damaged, burned, smeared with graffiti or anything like that. The management of the Husseini Islamic Center (HIC) and NASIMCO were alerted by the resident scholar in Sanford that the center affected belonged to followers of the Ahlul Bayt and the scholar had recited the 40 th majlis of the martyrs of Karbal{ (Arba n) in the very center on March 10 th, The secretariat of HIC requested the scholar to coordinate a visit of the believers from Orlando to Tampa, to begin a special fund to assist the renovation of torched center and prepare a report for the membership of HIC. A number of announcements were made at the HIC and an e- mail was sent out by HIC secretariat encouraging the believers to participate in the above noble cause. On Sunday April 29 th, after the #al{t and Tafs r session, the resident Alim along with six members of the community visited Islamic Education Center on Rockpointe Drive in Tampa to meet with the officials and assure them of our prayers and support.

6 4 AL-HAQQ NEWSLETTER We were saddened and shocked to see, amongst other thing, burnt out copies of the Holy Qur`{n and Du`{ manuals, the fallen Alam of Hadrat Abb{s, the blackened mimbar, melted posters of the holy places and charcoaled prayer mats at the Center - the destruction is beyond description. The IEC Tampa has been a target of hate related graffiti three times before the arson. Despite this, on account of internal differences, the center remained uninsured and now needs over $100, for renovation. Presently they are congregating in a rented place nearby and are in dire need of our financial support to make the center functional for weekly programs. Believers all over the United States of America, especially those living in Florida, are encouraged to help in this great cause and earn the Divine reward in this world and the Hereafter. Our Sixth Im{m, al-ª{diq has said: Any believer who withholds his wealth from a fellow believer while the other needs it, All{h will not let him (i.e. the one who withholds) taste the fruit of paradise or to take from its pure and sealed drink. At the time of writing this report, HIC members had gathered about $2, only for the cause. Those wishing to donate directly to IEC Tampa may do so by depositing your donations in Bank of America, Account , IEC-TAMPA, or send your checks in favor of IEC to Cherry Brook Lane, TAMPA, FL For more information please refer to CAIR broadcasts and click on the following sites: 1. e.aspx?storyid= g gh/mosque_burns_arson_su.shtml Praying to the Almighty for acceptance of our meager efforts in helping our fellow brothers and sisters. Prayers of the Prophet HIS DUÝÀ WHEN HE LOOKED IN THE MIRROR 1. In al-jaýfariy{t: In his narration from JaÝfar ibn Muƒammad from his fathers from ÝAl that whenever the Noble Prophet looked in the mirror, he said: ا لح م د ص و ر تي لا م س لا ل ل ل ه و زا ن ن و م ا لذ ي م ني ع ل ا ك م ل م ما شا ن ي بال ن ب و ة. ن خ ل قي غ ي ري س ح و ا و ه دا ي ن ن Praise be to All{h who created me perfectly, and made handsome my face, and made graceful from me what he made disgraceful from others, and guided me to Isl{m, and blessed me with prophethood. 2. From al-shaykh Ab al-fattuh in his Tafs r: From al- Ñ{diq who said: When the Noble Prophet looked in the mirror he said: ا لح م د م ني ما شا ن ل له ا لذ ي ا ن م ن س ح غ ي ري. خ ل قي و خ ل قي و زا ن Praise be to All{h who made excellent my creation and my character, and made graceful from me what he made disgraceful from others. HIS DUÝÀ WHEN HE WORE NEW CLOTHES 1. In al-mak{rim: From the Noble Prophet that when he wore new clothes he said: ا لح م د و ا ت ل له ا لذ ي ك ج م ل ب ه ف ي ال نا س. سا ني ما ي وا ري ع و ر تي Praise be to All{h who clothed me with what covers my nakedness and with what I adorn myself among the people.

7 AL-HAQQ NEWSLETTER 5 Islamic Ethics in the Light of Morality Helping to Oppress Just as oppression is prohibited, friendship with and helping the oppressor is also prohibited and this can be proven through reason and the Isl{mic sources. Just as oppression is ugly, so is helping the oppressor since if the oppressor is not helped, he will not be able to oppress others! Hence, Im{m as-ª{diq has said: Had you not gathered round Bani Umayyah, our right would not have been usurped. 1 Pay attention to the followings verses and traditions: 1. And when you ses those who enter into false discourses about Our communications, withdraw from them until they enter into some other discourse, and if the Satan causes you to forget, then do not sit after recollection with the unjust people And do not incline to those who are unjust, lest the fire touch you The Noble Prophet said: When the Day of Judgement rises an announcer announces: Where are the tyrants and their helpers this calling also includes those who even filled an inkpot for the unjust ruler or sew his purse or sharpened a pencil for the oppressors. So gather them along with the tyrants Ibne Sinan says: I heard Im{m as-ª{diq saying: Whoever assists an oppressor against an oppressed one always remains under Divine anger until he stops aiding the tyrant The Noble Prophet said: He in fact steps out of 1 Bi {rul Anw{r, 75: S}ratul An {m: 68 3 S}rat H}d: Bi {rul Anw{r, 75: Ibid. Islam Im{m al-b{qir said: A tyrant and the one who helps an oppressor as well as the one who is pleased with such injustice all the three are accomplices in the sin Imam Al said: The truth about religion is the same like and dislike then, as a testimony he referred to the she camel of the Prophet ª{li saying: The man who killed that camel shot the arrow was the killer of that camel yet the Divine chastisement fell on all due to their being pleased in agreement with that misdeed. When the just Imam will appear, the one who is pleased with his command and who helps him in his just deeds is his friend and when an unjust ruler appears arises and then the one who likes his orders and who assists him in his oppression is his friend The Noble Prophet said: The religious jurisprudents are the honest satisfactory trustees of the Prophet so long as they do not look at the world. It was asked: O Messenger of God! What is the meaning of their turning toward the world? He replied: Following unjust and wrong rulers. So when they do so be careful and be afraid of them for the sake of your religion Safw{n b. Mehr{n says: I went to Im{m M}s{ b. Ja far and he said: O Safwan! All of your deeds are good except one. I asked: My I be sacrificed for you! What is that deed? He replied: Renting your camels to this fellow H{r}n Rash d. I said: By God! I did not do so for fulfilling desire or as play or pastime but I rested them for their journey to Mecca and I have never accompanied them and.. and The 6 Ibid. 7 Ibid. 8 Ibid Ibid.

8 6 AL-HAQQ NEWSLETTER Im{m said: Does any amount of that rent remain unpaid to you which they pay afterward? Do you ever harbour the wish that they return safely so that you are paid you dues? I said yes. The Im{m then said: One who is pleased with his life is also with him and whoever is with him will go to hell. Safw{n said: After this incident I sold all my camels. Thereafter Haroon called me and asked: I have heard that you have sold your camels. I said: Yes. He asked why to which I said: I am now an old man and my servants do not work as they should. H{r}n said: Do you think that I am not aware? I know due to whose instance this thing has happened and he is M}s{ b. Ja far. I said: I have nothing to do with M}s{ b. Ja far. H{r}n replied: Had you not been in friendship with me I would have killed you. The oppressed is also an oppressor o if he becomes excessive Hish{m b. Salim says: I heard from Im{m as-ª{diq that Sometimes an oppressed person seeks and prays against the oppressor to such an extent that finally he himself turns into an oppressor, that in, what the oppressed wishes for the oppressor is much more than the harm which was done to him or he himself does to the oppressor which is beyond proportion whereas the Quran says: Whoever then acts aggressively against you, inflict injury on him according to the injury he has inflicted on you. 10 Remedy If a person does not keep his desires under control, they will increase step by step until sometimes, it begins to enjoy oppressing others and shedding of their blood. Thus, we see in the pages of history that people like Hajjaj b. Yusuf and Mu {wiyah loved to shed the blood of people! Therefore, a person must first control his desires so that he can nip them in the bud. He should also keep an eye on the dangerous consequences of oppression and the oppressor and must ponder much in this connection and if he has committed an injustice, he must repent for it. Tawbah of the Oppressor In the discussion of Tawbah repentance we have 10 Al-Kafi V. 2, Pg. 333 and S}ratul Baqarah (2), Verse 194 described that every sin has a particular way of repenting and injustice is no exception to this rule. Here we invite your attention to two narrations: 1. An elder of the tribe of Nakha approached Im{m al-b{qir and said: I have served as an officer of the government continuously from the days of Hajjaj. Is repentance available to me? The questioner said: The Im{m kept silence and did not reply and so I asked again to which the Im{m replied, No, until you pay up the right of everyone whose right was usurped through you Al b. Hamzah says: I had a friend who was an officer in the Umayyad government and he asked me to make an appointment to meet Im{m as-ª{diq. I obtained permission and when we arrived, he greeted the Im{m, took a seat and said: O Im{m! May my life be sacrificed for you! I had been an officer in the Umayyad government and I have earned much money from them. The Im{m said: Had the Bani Umayyah not found people who would write on their behalf, fight for them, collect revenue wealth for them and join their assemblies, in truth, our (the Ahlul Bayt) rights would not have been usurped. The questioner repeated a question and asked: Now is there any way of relief for me? The Im{m replied: Will you accept if I tell you? The man said yes to which the Im{m replied: If you can find out the people from whom you obtained money in the said manner, return their wealth to them and if you cannot find them then donate the money you have earned in the way of All{h on their behalf. If you do so I stand as a surety to your admission to paradise. Al b. Hamzah says: This friend followed the orders of the Imam, giving away everything he had even his clothes for which I had to then provide him with new clothes. After a time I came to know that he had fallen ill and so I went to see him and sat near him while he was on his deathbed. His last words were: O Al b. Hamzah! The Im{m has fulfilled his promise He then breathed his last. When I went to the Im{m, his eyes fell on me and at once he said: By God, I have acted as I had promised with your friend. I said: By God, you said the truth because he too said so at the time of his death. 11 Al-Kafi V. 2, Pg. 331

9 AL-HAQQ NEWSLETTER 7 World Federation Conference DUBAI MARKS RECORD STRIDES FORWARD AND A VISION FOR THE FUTURE The Triennial Conference in September 2006 brought members, leaders and stakeholders of the World Federation to Dubai to reflect on where the community has come from and in which direction it must be headed. Dr. Hassam, the President of the World Federation praised community members for their collective generosity; but simultaneously reminded the delegates that there was much more hard work to do. The focus, he highlighted, must shift to increasing involvement and to expanding enagement by our members in the activity of our community. Dr. Hassam stipulated that community leaders would need to reinforce many core skills in order to create a culture of forward thinking, which would enable our community institutions develop further. I have seen a generous community which does not flinch when doing Allah s work, be it for the Khoja community or the wider ummah a community whose generosity knows no bounds, whose philanthropy is not timid, whose response to crisis is expedient, Dr. Hassam said. Yet he added, I have also seen lack of effective leadership, Vision and Mission Statement Vision Statement The World Federation exists to achieve the pleasure of Allah (S.W.T) by developing spiritual and vibrant communities serving humanity. Mission Statement The World Federation enables its member institutions to promote the values and practices of the Islamic Shia Ithna Asheri faith for the spiritual and material well being of humanity at large. despite the best of intentions to serve. I see tensions between the Jamaats and members, between Jamaats and regional federations, between regional federations and the World Federation. Record Finances, Unified Goals Honorary Treasurer Br. Azad Kanani announced that income in this term, for the first time in the history of the World Federation, crossed the 5 million mark annually. This record figure was a result of increasing generosity from the community. Additionally, the Treasurer highlighted that the Secretariat expenditure was cut by around 20 percent, through streamlining costs and focusing on the quality of service. It was agreed that the Secretariat should report on the asset portfolios of the community to the Executive Council. Thus far, allocation is being made based on relevance to the strategic plan and presidential manifesto. As a result, unprecedented investment has been made. For example, spending on Ramadhan Relief has increased by 125 percent compared to the last term. In the term, over }1 million was invested in Islamic Education, an increase of almost 98 percent from the previous term. Investment in primary health care increased by 94 percent from the previous term. During the same period, expenditure on Yatim and Aseer increased by over 160,000.

10 8 AL-HAQQ NEWSLETTER Conference attendees also contributed towards revising the World Federation s Vision and Mission statements, once Br. Abbas Kanji presented drafts of both documents. The aim of these statements is to create a set of shared community goals and sense of purpose. As Dr. Hassam stated, While we must always remain true to the ethos and values of the organisation, as was envisaged by the founders of the World Federation, now we need to move to the next stage in the development of our community institutions. between the World Federation and the Regional Federations. Moving forward, leaders from both institutions are tasked with setting a clear framework for these relationships, and where the World Federation must step in to build capacity within regions. One particularly strong suggestion was to transform the World Historic Resolution to move the community to its next phase of development Focus on Regional This conference hereby resolves that the Coordination Executive Council be authorized to enter Organisational structure into memorandum of understanding with was the focus of yet another project, the development of its members to develop a clear and the Strategic Plan. Among key recommendations was detailed framework which will delineate the role of WF and its working relationship better definition of the with its members, and implement such working relationships measures in consultation with leadership between the regional bodies. As mentioned by Dr. Hassam: I see no clear of its members, in this respect including but not limited to dissolution, merger, demarcation of and/or reorganization of its boards and/or responsibilities, which leads to duplication of work and working of WF if necessary. lack of centralization. This honest criticism set the conference tone for introspection and Federation into a purely strategic improvement. The report institution, developing policy and concluded that ideally the projects of the World Federation should be carried out by regional federations who are better informed of local allocating resources. The regional federations would focus on taking responsibility for devising and delivering the actual projects. needs and resources. It became Inspired by the resolution clear that efficient relationships proposed by KSI (Pirhai) Jamaat of with clear communication and a Karachi, and after consultations sense of shared purpose are with all the regional heads essential, most importantly present, NASIMCO tabled the historic resolution that would effectively mandate the Executive Council and subsequently the Secretariat to implement the changes envisaged and recommended by Conference This resolution was passed unanimously and the conference in unison accepted that regional bodies would take responsibility for the delivery of projects, whilst the World Federation would support them in doing so through financial and structural support and through the creation of clear strategy. This would prevent duplication of work and improved effectiveness in delivery of projects (a recommendation from the strategic plan). To action this resolution, the leaders of the World Federation and Regional Federations are currently in the process of drafting a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the organisations. This MoU shall define the new structures and the working relationships with the organisations. The Role of Executive Councillors The former President Dr. Hasnain Walji challenged the conference by asking if the role of Executive Councillors was relevant any more. Using an anatomical metaphor, he described the structure of the World Federation as the skeleton, the Community members its flesh and the

11 AL-HAQQ NEWSLETTER 9 Councillors are part of its nervous system. The function of the nervous system was to communicate signals to the body and alert the centre to things that may be or could be going wrong. Muballigheen Training Programme: Addressing The most Critical Need Jafferbhai Dharamsi gave an insight into the Muballigheen Training Programme (MTP). After consultation with Worldwide Community Elders, Leaders, Members (Male and Female), especially the youth, Resident Aalims, Scholars and Muballigheen, and having visited Howzas in England, India, Iran, Pakistan and Syria, WF proposes that from September 2007, a Muballigheen Training Programme should be conducted in Arabic language in Damascus, with an intake of 15 students per year. Each Training Course will run for four years, and the curriculum will be tailor-made to meet the needs of our worldwide community. The initiative for the programme had come from the strategic plan in Subsequently, the Islamic Education Board Weekend Retreat held in London created a comprehensive Programme for implementing a 10 year plan for the training of Muballigheen. The Conference unanimously endorsed the program. Many scholarships were offered on the spot. Office Bearers The same team of Office Bearers was voted in for the second term. In other administrative news, the constitutional article limiting the term of the President to two terms was passed. President: Dr. Ahmad Hassam Vice President: Gulam Dinani Treasurer: Azad Kanani Secretary General: Yasin Rahim Elected Councillors: Altaf Kikaria, Asgher Bharwani, Asgher Moledina, Masum Somji, Sabira Murtaza Lakha Auditor: Meralis Accounting Firm Electoral Commissioner: Amir Somji Dr. Ahmed Hassam acknowledged the dedicated services of Dr. MTI Walji to the World Federation. Dr. Walji has been the Chairman of MAB for over 20 years and served it with simplicity, sincerity and with an aura of dedication rarely found. His ground breaking work in raising awareness within the Khoja community of AIDS, Thallasaemia and other medical conditions was recognised and his service to the treatment of medical patients and to the Hujjaj was acknowledged. For a full update on conference proceedings, visit: federation.org/secretariat/circular s/conference2006 For further information, secretariat@world-federation.org Im{m JaÝfar b. Muƒammad as-ñ{diq has said: <ÿæ< Œ^{ĆßÖ]< ç{łú _<łà{žú<ğ] {łúş_<î Öÿç{ÿi<łà{ÿÚ <ê{žê<ÿ {ş ÿþ<ÿæ<łåÿ łj{ž <ÿä{şêÿ <ÿæ<łä{ÿe^ÿe<ÿxÿj{şê <Ž]<î{{ ÿâ<^{ Ïÿu<ÿá^{şÒ< Œ^{ĆßÖ]< ç{łú _ <ÿæ<ží{{{ÿú^ÿéžïğö]<ÿýłç{{{ÿè<łä{{{ÿjÿâłæÿ <ÿàžúłö{{{łè<łáş_ < <JşíĆßÿrĞÖ]<Łäş Ž}ł Łè The person who has been charged with looking over the affairs of the people and keeps his door open (to the people) and removes the impediments (which prevent people from having access to him) and thoroughly reviews how he can solve the matters of the people becomes such a person that it would be the responsibility of All{h to ensure that on the Day of Resurrection, he is protected and that He enters him into Paradise. 12 The Messenger of All{h has stated that: <ÿ ŽÛŽ {łšłûğö]< ç{łú _<łà{žú<ğ^òłéÿ<î Öÿæ<łàÿÚ <Łå]ÿ {{{{ÿè<ÿæ<ží{{{{ÿú^ÿéžïğö]<ÿýłç{{{{ÿè<žä{{{{že<ÿê{{{{ži _< c < c<^ÿûłã Ó Ëÿè<ş <ŽäŽÏŁßŁÂ<î{Ö c< á^ÿjşöç łçÿú < <JfiÙł ÿâ Any person who takes on a portion of (fulfilling) the responsibilities of the affairs of the Muslims will come forth on the Day of Resurrection with both hands tied to his neck and nothing will free them (his hands - nothing will free him from the hellfire) except justice (which he showed while in the world) Biƒ{rul Anw{r, vol. 75, pg ÝAw{l ul Lay{l, Volume 1, Page 366

12 10 AL-HAQQ NEWSLETTER Tafseer of the Noble Qur ān Sūratul Qiyāmat Compiled by a Group of Muslim Scholars under the Guidance of yatull{h N{#ir Mak{rim Sh r{z Extracted from Tafs r-e-namuna (Volume 24) Part VII in the Series of the Tafsir of this Surah Translated by Saleem Bhimji Section Six Verses 31 to 40 و لك ن ك ذب وت و لى ثم ذه ب ا ى ل ا ه ل ه ي ت م طى ا و لى ل ك ف ا و لى ثم ا و لى ل ك ف ا و لى ف لا ص د ق و لا ص لى ا ي ح س ب الا نس ا ن ا ن ي ت ر ك سد ى ا لم ي ك ن ط ف ة م ن م ن ي ي م نى ثم كا ن ع ل ق ة فخ ل ق فس و ى فج ع ل م ن ه ذل ك ب قاد ر ع لى ا ن ي ح ي ي ا لم و ت ى الز و ج ي ن ال ذ كر و الا ن ثى ا لي س So then, he did not speak the truth, nor did he offer his ªal{t (prayers). Rather, he rejected faith and turned away. Then, arrogantly, he went to his own people. Then he turned away. So then, again, he turned away! Does man think that he will be left uncontrolled? Was he not once just a drop of discharged sperm? Was he not turned into a clot (like shape)? He then formed him and gave him proper shape. From the human being, He made males and females - in pairs. Does He then not have the power to bring the dead back to life (again)? Allah has created mankind from a worthless drop of sperm! In continuation of our discussion in regards to death - which is the first step on the voyage to the next life and was discussed in the previous verses of this s}rah, at this point the verses are in relation to how the disbeliever s hands will be empty of the provisions needed on that Day for the long journey ahead of them. The first thing mentioned is that: So then he did not speak the truth, nor did he offer his ªal{t (prayers) The pronoun in the sentence و ص لى دق ص refers to the person who denied the resurrection and this can be easily seen by the tone of these verses and this has also been alluded to in the beginning of this s}rah. We are then told: Rather, he rejected faith and turned away. The meaning of the sentence which reads صد ق فلا or So then he did not speak the truth is that this person denied the resurrection, accountability, reward and punishment, signs of All{h i, monotheism (taw d), and the Prophethood (nubuwwah) of the Prophet of Islam. However some commentators state that this verse refers to the disbelievers who did not offer charity (#adaqah) and base this belief on the fact that it has been mentioned along side the ªal{t [as is seen in many verses of the Qur`an]. However the second verse clearly shows us and bears witness that the opposite spectrum of accepting and believing the teachings is to deny and refute them and

13 AL-HAQQ NEWSLETTER 11 thus, the first commentary of this verse is the accepted interpretation. In the next verse we are told: Then arrogantly, he went to his own people. Perhaps this person was thinking that through ignoring and belying the Messenger and the signs of All{h i he would achieve a great victory!? This person became proud and arrogant and ran back to his family and people so that - just as was common for him to do while in the company of others - he would be able to brag about his greatness to his family! This person s actions go deeper than this and even his body language showed his level of pride and arrogance! The word يتمطى or arrogantly comes from the root word مطا whose original meaning is the back and the word تمطى means waking proudly with a firm, straight back in a bid to ignore others and to show pride or to be lethargic. In this verse, the accepted meaning is the first one which we mentioned. Some commentators have stated that this word comes from the root مط which means dragging one s feet or other parts of the body when he wishes to show that he is ignoring someone or is being lazy, however it is more appropriate to state that this word comes from 15. مطا the root In any case, this meaning is very close to what has been stated in regards to verse 31 of S}ratul Mu affif n (83), which reads: ب وا فك ه ين و ا ذا ان ق لب وا ا لى ا ه ل هم ا ن ق ل And when they return back to their own family and friends, they return back to them exulting, proud. This group of faith-less people are then addressed and warned: You are worthy of the punishment of All{h much more worthy. 15 We state this since if this word is from the root, مطا then there is no apparent change in the pronunciation of the word. However يتمطى word then the, مط word if we take it as being from the would have originally been يتمطط of which the final طاء was converted to a ياء due to the rules of Arabic syntax. The verse repeats and we are told: Rather still you are more worthy of the punishment of All{h more worthy! There are other explanations and translations which have been offered for this verse in addition to what we have mentioned, which include: 1. This is a warning to those people that: May the punishment of All{h be upon you again, may the punishment of All{h be upon you! 2. This state that you are currently in (in the hellfire) is well suited for you and you are deserving of it! 3. Woe upon you! Woe upon you! 4. May the goodness of the world be distanced from you and may the goodness of the next world also be distanced from you! 5. May the evil and punishment over take you again, may the evil and punishment over take you! 6. It is better for you to experience the punishment that you saw on the day of the Battle of Badr, and the punishment of the grave and the Resurrection day is also better for you. 16 However it goes without saying that most of these meanings return back to one comprehensive meaning which is the threat of the punishment, humiliation and retribution - whether it be in this world, the intermediary realm (barzakh) or the Resurrection Day. It has been mentioned in the traditions that one day, the Messenger of All{h took Ab} Jahl by the hand (other reports state that he took him by the neck) and said: 16 According to some commentaries, the word ا ولى is the superlative noun. In the opinion of other commentaries, the ا فعال of is the past tense verb based on the pattern ا ولى word coming from the root. ولى If this is the case, then the meaning of the verse would be: ال له العذاب قاربك or May the punishment of All{h be brought close to you. Some others have suggested that the word ا ولى is a verbal noun and carries with it the meaning of قارب or to bring close. However, it is best to take the first meaning given. (Refer to al-bay{n f Ghar b I r{bul Qur`{n, R} ul Ma`{n, al-miz{n f Tafs r al-qur`{n and al-munjid for more information.)

14 12 AL-HAQQ NEWSLETTER ا و لى لك ف ا و لى ثم ا و لى لك ف ا و لى At this, Ab} Jahl said: What are you warning me about? Neither you nor your god has the ability to do anything to me. I am the most powerful person on this land! It is at this point that the words which the Prophet spoke (as quoted above) came down to him in the form of Divine Revelation from All{h i. 17 Two interesting proofs are then brought forth for the Resurrection one is the proof of the purpose behind creation and the wisdom of All{h i for creating everything, while the other proof is of His power to bring forth, change and complete a man s sperm into various forms in the world of the womb. At the first stage we are told: Does man think that he will be left uncontrolled? The word سدى or uncontrolled means a nonsensical, waste of time or something done in vain and without a purpose. A common phrase which the Arabs use contains this same word, and it states: ا ب ل س دى This refers to a camel which has been left without anyone to tend to it and is free to roam and go wherever it pleases. The meaning of the word ا لا نسان or mankind in this verse is that same human being who was opposed to the Resurrection Day. This verse tells us that: How can such a person believe that whereas All{h i has created this expansive universe with all of its greatness and amazing things for humanity, however He had no goals or purpose for the creation of humanity? How can we accept the fact that each and every body part of the human being has been created for a specific purpose? The eyes are for seeing; the ears are for hearing; the heart is for making sure that food, oxygen and water reach all of the cells of the body and that even the finger tips have a philosophy behind them, however the human s presence as a whole has 17 Majma al-bay{n, vol. 10, pg. 401 absolutely no purpose!? Thus, was he truly created for no reason and can it be true that there is no program of command to follow or affairs to refrain from, nor any responsibility or accountability!? If someone was to make something which had no purpose to it, indeed people would take him to task and his name would definitely be removed from the list of those with intelligence. Thus, how is it possible that All{h, the All-Wise over all things would create something [like the human being] for no reason?! If we state that the reason for creation is just the passing of a few days of life on this Earth and for us to live through the continuous cycle of eating and sleeping and to bear the hundreds and thousands of difficulties and challenges, then surely this is not something that can necessitate this great creation! Thus, through this fact we reach to the conclusion that mankind was created for a much higher goal and purpose which is eternal life in the presence of the Pure Truth and to reach to complete and total perfection. 18 After this, the second proof is mentioned: Was he once, not just a drop of discharged sperm? We are then told: Was he not turned into a clot [like shape]? He then formed him and gave him proper shape. All{h i then tells us: From the human being, He made males and females - in pairs. Is the One who took a small drop of worthless sperm and placed it inside the darkness of the womb of the mother and then, day after day, gave it a new creation and clothed it with the robes of life and existence and then gave this creation a new look so that in the end, the foetus developed into either a complete male or female not able to bring the dead back to life: Does He then not have the power to bring the dead back to life (again)? 18 In this regards, one can also refer to the commentary of verse 115 of S}ratul Mo`min}n (23) (Tafs r-e-nam}na, vol. 14, pg. 346)

15 AL-HAQQ NEWSLETTER 13 In reality, this explanation has been presented in order to confront those who disbelieve in the physical resurrection and feel that it is impossible and can not occur and that there is no possibility of returning back to life once a person has died and has turned into dust! In order to verify the possibility of this act taking place, the Qur`{n takes the person by the hand and leads him back to his original creation the amazing stage when he was a foetus and the various phases which he traversed. Through this, he may come to know that He has power over everyone and everything. In other words, this is the best proof for the ability of the resurrection to take place! Death of a Marja Taqlid On June 11, 2007, the grand Marja`, yatull{h al- U m{ al-«{jj as-sayyid «asan ab{ ab{ i al-qumm passed away in the sacred city of Mashad al-muqaddas. Born on February 1, 1911 CE (3 rd of Safar, 1332 AH) in Mashad, he began his introductory studies in the Hawza of Mashad under numerous great scholars including his father who was a recognized authority in Isl{m. Due to the political pressures imposed on the religious scholars during the tyrannical rule of the Shah of Iran, he was forced to continue his studies in Ir{q in the theological seminaries of Najaf and Karbal{. He returned to Iran at which point, he begin to rise up with the other scholars during the initial movement to topple the Shah. During that period, he became a source of guidance and inspiration for the people of Mashad until the eventual success of the revolution in 1979! In remembering this great scholar, yatull{h al- U m{ al-«{jj Lu full{h ª{f Gulp{yg{n had the following to say: This great scholar spent his momentous life in the service of lifting the word of All{h, struggling in the way of All{h, propagating the message of the Ahlul Bayt (peace be upon all of them), and in enjoining to the good and forbidding from the evil in truth we can say that he was one of those scholars who protects his faith and follows the orders of his Master. The supreme leader, Ayatullah al-uzma al-hajj as- Sayyid Ali al-husayni al-khamene i noted the following in his statement, I express my condolence over the demise of the committed clergyman the late Ayatollah Hajji-Aqa Hassan Tabataba i Qomi to the senior ulama and Islamic seminaries of the holy city of Mashhad and to all the faithful and revolutionary residents of that city, especially to the adherents and associates of the deceased and in particular to his esteemed family and honorable progeny A major part of the blessed lifetime of this dedicated Islamic jurisprudent was spent in struggling against the former tyrannical regime, and his fervent orations increased the ardor of the struggling forces. The sufferings and hardships resulting from imprisonment and exile were not able to undermine the firm determination of this magnanimous clergyman and stop his efforts until the time of the victory of the Islamic Revolution. I pray to Almighty Allah to raise his status in the hereafter and associate him with His friends and dignified saints Indeed, we are all from All{h and back to Him is our return

16 14 AL-HAQQ NEWSLETTER The International Revert Conference 2007 A Successful First Start! By Sr. Jennah Heydar The first International Revert Conference was originally conceived while having conversations, via posts, through the popular Shiachat forums last fall How do we bring new Muslims together, how can we make them feel as though they are part of the ummah? These were the types of questions we asked ourselves while considering this conference and the surprising growth of the Revert Muslims Association [R.M.A]. When I came into the deen I was alone, only having a few acquaintances over the Net. I remember feeling so isolated. There were no big welcomes in, no returned phone calls or even s. I had so much love for All{h i, so much respect for my new foundfaith and yet I felt despondent without having Muslim friends and support from the community. Who do I talk to, where do I go? How many new Muslims experience this? Well I can tell you a huge majority do. So many new Muslims waiver on their new journey, because they lack the support necessary to find resources, to learn to pray, to live the life of a Muslim and to deflect the constant backlash oftentimes received by mislead but concerned family members and friends. The Revert Muslims Association and the International Revert Conference is a means of hope to these individuals. The R.M.A, as it s often times referred to, is a team of volunteer members, most of which are Reverted Western Muslims. They have all experienced much the same as they came into Islam and they offer support to one another through the R.M.A forums. This committed group reaches out to new Muslims and directs and guides them to resources through the R.M.A website, al-islam.org and other very informative sites. This kind of conference and this Association are crucial for new Muslims. Without the proper support the new Muslims may either fall out of their faith or become mislead by other Muslims who may have good intentions but may, themselves, be misguided. The Revert Muslims Association receives 730 thousand to a million hits a month and growing. They send out welcome packages to new Muslims, which includes: Turbah, Subha beads, Salat books and CD s and even Hijab/Abaya and they keep up support via , MSN, PALTALK, post and on occasion telephone. These committed volunteers are making a difference and the annual International Revert Conference gives great anticipation, encouragement and support to so many of them. This year s, first time event, took place at the Jaffari centre in Toronto April 13 th through to the 15 th The Conference board committee was expecting 200 to 225 attendees but sadly due to the weather and flight and long-distance travel plan cancellations, many people could not attend. However those that were in intendance left with smiles on their faces, a stronger iman and set to attend next year s conference. The atmosphere was energized, everyone just seemed so happy to be there. This year s theme: Labbaik Ya Hujjatullah Preparing the foundation for Imam Mahdi eventual return. resonated in peoples minds as it was reflected in each workshop. The International Reverts Conference had some lectures delayed due to conflicting schedules with other events taking place at the Mosque but

17 AL-HAQQ NEWSLETTER 15 otherwise it managed to stay on track. A very good first attempt and with so many enjoying their time, finding inspiration and support it was proclaimed a success at its closing ceremonies Sunday night. Events Coordinator, Sister Fatimah Ali was pleased overall and looked to assure committee members that next year s event will be even more successful, inshallah, as we are now left with experience, new ideas and even more interested volunteers. The feedback received, through forms handed in, was very encouraging. Attendees were genuinely pleased with the efforts put forth by the volunteers and with the very informative lectures and the catered foods. The food was catered by Sister Fatmaz Catering, Kawthar Restaurant and Chicken Land in Toronto. The workshops were very well thought-out and the Reverts that attended seemed to be most interested in the topics Combating prejudices and racism found within the Muslim communities and How to deal with non-muslim family members. A very insightful lecture by Shaykh Saleem Bhimji on Dying and Death was a real eye opener and everyone was taking notes. Sister Fatimah Ali s lecture on hijab had the sisters excited and exhilarated about their choice to veil and her approach to capture the room with her wit and zeal for her deen was most energizing. The other lectures were equally absorbing and were received well. Sister Masooma Beatty ended our weekend with a compelling lecture on the Battle of Badr. Many of the sisters I spoke to were thrilled to meet others who they can now network with via and to look forward to future events like this. The brothers were equally content with the whole experience. This event was open to all Muslims and we had in attendance some non-muslims taking part as well as Sunni Muslims. My Christian mother attended and even wore full hijab and did so much to partake in so many volunteer activities with a smile and her best attempt at Assalaamu alaykum may All{h i be pleased with her genuine effort to support my journey. Our guest speakers were: Sayyid Muhammad Rizvi, Author and Imam of Ja ffari Islamic Centre,Toronto, Shaykh Saleem Bhimji, Sr. Diana Beatty (Sr Masooma), Br. Clazian Joseph, Sr. Fatima Ali head of Path of Light out of Montreal, Sr. Priscilla (Hajar) Machado, Sr. Akilah Haneef-Jabari, Sr. Batul Najfi, Br. Cyril Anderson, Sr. Arifa Hudda, Br. Khalid Haneef-Jabari, Sr Laila Hasib. Our team of volunteer committee members: Br. Sameer Karim, Br. Amin, Br. Isa Michael Broderick, Sr. Agnes and her husband Br. Fahmy, Sr. Fatimah Ali, Br. Ali Imran and myself. We were very blessed to have had many committed volunteers that helped out when we so needed it, Alhamdulillah, what a wonderful group of warm individuals to spend a weekend with. I have never seen so many western Reverts in one room. Sister Natalie, a committed member of the R.M.A, drove all the way from Virginia with her two young sons to attend; this is how much we all need support! We are willing to travel at length to find it. This weekend s conference had us all feeling as though we were with family, we were part of the ummah and it felt like a warm hug. When I came home and opened my gift from the other committee members, I saw in my hands a beautiful Quran and I was overcome with emotion and tears. This is what it s all about, I thought to myself looking down at the holy book, we just want to propagate our religion we want to feel as though we are being accepted by other Muslims and we want to do our best to be the best Muslims we can be. Inshallah we will continue to move forward even with the struggles so many of us face. As a Revert Muslim I understand how important these events are to newly reverted Muslims and so I am committed to trying to find funding to promote this annual event. I am already looking to round up next year s conference committee members and after having a lengthy conversation with our British sister, Zaynab Rizvi, an attendee of this year s event, I am even considering holding an event in England 2008 as well as holding the next Revert Conference in Ottawa Ontario, Canada summer Interested individuals looking to take part in this rewarding work please contact Sr. Jennah for more details jennahislam@hotmail.com.

18 16 AL-HAQQ NEWSLETTER Ayatul Kursī T h e I m p e n e t r a b l e A r m a m e n t Written by Mu ammad Ibrahim Nasrullah Burujerdi Translated by Saleem Bhimji Part One in a Series of Articles Turning one s full attention to All{h i and engrossing oneself in the remembrance of the Beloved has a special place within the teachings of Isl{m and essentially, the essence of obedience and worship and all spiritual worth stems from the constant remembrance of All{h i. Isl{m considers that the source of the human being s spiritual power and strength and the only factor which can lead to one s success and perfection is to be found in the constant remembrance of All{h i; and all tribulations which a person goes through and even the negative ethical traits and all spiritual defects and sicknesses as stemming from the heedlessness of All{h i. Various practical guidelines have been laid down within the faith of Isl{m which every Muslim needs to follow to be able to remember All{h i so that in one s day to day life, one can remember The Creator in a complete fashion and not fall into heedlessness. The most important action which leads to the remembrance of All{h i is the five daily prayers (ªal{t) because this disengages a person s thoughts and spirit away from the monotony of the transient world and reunites him with the Beloved. Keeping in mind the spiritual life-giving effects which the remembrance of All{h i has, we see that there are many instances in the Noble Qur`{n in which the believers have been ordered to continuously remember All{h i. We are told that through this act, the source of life of the hearts of the believers is nourished and quenched! The Noble Qur`{n tells us that: ي ا ا ي ه ا ا لذ ي ن ا م ن وا ا ذ كر وا ا الله ذ كر ا كث ير ا... O you who have true faith! Remember All{h a frequent remembering 1 In addition, the Noble Prophet of Isl{m has stated: The similitude of those who remember All{h to those who are heedless (of Him) is like the similitude of the living among the dead or a green tree among a forest of dried up trees. Such a person (who remembers All{h i) is like the person who stands up in a battle among those who are fleeing the battlefield. 2 In regards to the importance of the remembrance of All{h i, the Noble Prophet has also stated: ع لى ي ت ح س ر و ن لا ا ن ا ه ل ا لج ن ة كت ح س ره م ع لى س اع ة م ر ت م ن م ن فات ه م ش ي ء غي ر ذ ك ر ا الله. الد ن ي ا Indeed the people of Paradise shall not regret anything which passed from them of the transient world as much as the grief they will feel in regards to the hours which passed (while in the transient world) in which they were not occupied in the remembrance of All{h. 3 Among all types of remembrance of All{h i, the one which is the greatest manifestation of the remembrance of All{h i is the Verse of the Throne (Ayatul Kurs ), which has been described in the traditions of the Shi a and the Ahlus Sunnah as being the pinnacle of the Noble Qur`{n and the greatest verse from among all the verses of the Qur`{n. 4 In addition, there are numerous traditions which encourage us to recite Ayatul Kurs and in one narration, Im{m Ali has stated that after he heard 1 S}ratul A z{b (33), Verse 41 2 The Alchemy of Success, Vol. 1, Pg Irsh{dul Qul}b of al-daylam 4 Tafs r R} ul Ma {n, Vol. 3, Pg. 10

19 AL-HAQQ NEWSLETTER 17 the merits of this verse, not a single night passed except that he read Ayatul Kurs! 1 Indeed we can state that just as the breath of Prophet Isa brought forth miracles, so too can Ayatul Kurs produce miracles and extraordinary events for the person who recites it, and we will speak about this issue as has been narrated in the narrations, later on. Our discussions in regards to Ayatul Kurs is divided into four sections: 1. A brief and easy to understand commentary of Ayatul Kurs. 2. Is Ayatul Kurs one verse or three? 3. The merits of Ayatul Kurs. 4. The benefits of completing the reciting of Ayatul Kurs. We know that it is not common among the religiouslyaware people to engage in completing the recital 2 of Ayatul Kurs like it is done for the #alaw{t on the Prophet or the Bismill{h which in itself are very important acts of worship, however in the opinion of this humble servant, since there is a possibility that the greatest name of All{h i is contained in Ayatul Kurs, thus, we believe that its recitation can have a great impact on the fulfillment of one s desires for the transient world and in the next life! During my research, I was not able to find any writing which discusses the four topics mentioned above and realized that many people have been deprived of the blessings of this verse of the Qur`{n and thus, it is my desire that this insignificant service of mine acts as a stepping stone for the people to gain a better understanding of the way of All{h i and that it leads to the pleasure of the Most High, God willing. 1 A TRANSLATION AND A BRIEF COMMENTARY OF AYATUL KURSI ا ل له ل ه ن و م لا م ا ا ل ه ف ي ه و ا لا الس م و ا ت ا لح ي و م ا ا ل قي و م ف ي لا الا ر ض ت ا خ ذ ه م ن س ن ة ذا و لا ا لذ ي 1 Tafs r-e-nam}na, Vol. 1, Pg The meaning of this is to recite a specific dhikr, prayer, or supplication a set number of times during a set period of time. (Tr.) ي ش فع و لا كر س ي ه ا لع ل ي ع ن د ه ي ح ي طو ن ا لا الس م و ا ت ا لع ظ ي م. ب ا ذ ن ه بش ي ء لا ي ع ل م م ن و الا ر ض ف ي ا كر ا ه ب ي ن م ا ع لم ه و لا الد ي ن ا ي د ي ه م ا لا ي ي ود ه ق د بم ا و م ا ش ا ء ح ف ظه م ا الر ش د ت ب ي ن خ ل فه م و س ع و ه و م ن الغ ي فم ن ي ك ف ر بال طا غو ت و ي و م ن بال ل ه ف ق د اس ت م س ك با لع ر و ة و ل ي و ا لذ ين الن و ر ا لذ ي ن ا لى خ ال د و ن. ا لو ث قى ا م ن وا ك فر وا لا ال ظ لم ت ان ف ص ا م ي خ رج ه م ا و ل ي او ه م له ا ا و لي ك م ن و ال ل ه ال طا غو ت س م ي ع ال ظ لم ت ا ص ح ا ب ع ل ي م. ا لى ي خ رج ون ه م ه م الن ا ر ا ل له الن و ر م ن ف يه ا All{h - there is no god except Him He is the Living One, the All-Sustainer. Neither drowsiness befalls Him nor sleep. To Him belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is on the earth. Who is it that may intercede with Him except by His permission? He knows that which is before them and that which is behind them, and they do not comprehend anything of His knowledge except what He wishes. His seat embraces the heavens and the earth, and He is not wearied by their preservation, and He is the All- Exalted, the All-Supreme. There is no compulsion in religion: rectitude has become distinct from error. So one who disavows the Rebels and has faith in God has held fast to the firmest handle for which there is no breaking; and God is All-Hearing, All-Knowing. God is the Master of the faithful: He brings them out of the darkness into the light. As for the faithless, their patrons are the rebels, who drive them out of the light into the darkness. They shall be the inmates of the Fire, and they shall remain in it [forever]. الحي The Meaning of All{h i is that Essence which is One, possesses all of the attributes of perfection and is the Originator of the entire universe of existence and thus, in the world of creation, nothing else is worthy of being worshipped except for Him and this has been noted in the phrase, إهل إلا هو لا [There is no creature worthy of

20 18 AL-HAQQ NEWSLETTER worship except for Him] which the Noble Qur`{n has used to express the Oneness and Uniqueness of the Creator of the Universe and also forms the core belief of Isl{m. The word الله (All{h) also conveys this same meaning and thus, the sentence إهل إلا هو لا is yet a further emphasis to this reality. The meaning of the word الحي is living and its ruling in relation to All{h i is just as His other characteristics it denotes a perpetual and continuous trait which He possesses. The life which All{h i possesses is the true meaning of life as His life is a part of His Essence and is not accidental, nor has it come to Him from another source. However in relation to the human being, his life is not a part of his essence, rather, it has come to him from another source namely All{h i. The meaning of All{h i being alive is not the same as the life which human beings or other creations possess in which they grow, are nourished, procreate, attract and repel things and have the power of sense and movement. Rather, the meaning of living in relation to All{h i is an extensive and true meaning which includes His Knowledge and the faculty of ability (to perform an action), since in reality, it is through knowledge and the faculty of ability that we are able to differentiate the living from the dead. However as for the traits of growth, movement and other such things, these are all effects of creations which are imperfect and limited and it is for this reason that they possess those traits to make up for their own shortcomings since that entity which does not have such limitations and shortcomings has no need for these traits (growth, nourishment, etc ) meaning All{h i. meaning has no basis when used in relation to All{h i as He has no physical body or physical traits! Therefore, when we use this word in relation to All{h i, it refers to His power of Creation, Maintenance (of the creations) and His over-seeing everything and it is only Him who possesses these traits. In addition, He performs these actions on a continuous basis and without any stoppage. لا تا خذه سنة و لا نوم of The Meaning The word سنة is a specific type of slackness which comes about just before a person falls asleep rather, نوم it can also be referred to as a light sleep. The word means sleep and this is a state that a person falls into in which his senses come to a standstill due to natural factors (sleep). In reality, the sentence, تا خذه سنة و لا نوم لا or Neither drowsiness befalls Him nor sleep is another emphasis on the fact that All{h i - being the All-Sustainer has a complete maintenance over the entire world of creation and this necessitates that the one who is looking over the system does not fall into heedlessness for even an instant. Thus, in His sole authority over the affairs of the entire world of creation, All{h i does not fall into inattention or negligence and thus, anything which would detract from the principle of His Over-Seeing is, on its own, not a part of Him. Indeed, even the smallest of things which may lead to the slightest inattention such as a light sleep or drowsiness are not a part of His Essence! To be continued القيوم The Meaning of The word القيوم or All-Sustainer is based on the Arabic pattern of the exaggerative noun and comes from the root word. قيام Based on the origin of this word, it denotes an entity which possesses the trait of being the All-Sustainer and that this trait is actually a part of its essence. It also shows us that all creations who are sustained are done so through Him. In other words, all creations in the world of existence rely solely upon Him. In daily conversation, the word قيام is used in the meaning of standing up, however we know that this ر س و ل قا ل خ ي ار ك م ٩ ل له م ن (ص لى ت ع ل م ٩ ل له ٩ ل قر ا ن ع لي ه و ا ل ه و ع لم ه ا لى و س ل م): غي ر ه. The Messenger of All{h (blessings of All{h be upon him and his family) has said: The best of those amongst you is the one who learns the Qur {n and then teaches it to others. al-am{l of Shaykh at- }s, Vol. 1, Pg. 5

21 AL-HAQQ NEWSLETTER Images from Muharram 2007 A selection of images from Muharram commemmorations at Bustan-e-Zahra, England From top left [1] Bustan-e-Zahra President Br. Mahmood Padhani makes introductory comments and welcomes guests at function. [2] Mawlana Sayyid Raza Haider delivers his talk to participants at Bustan-e-Zahra. [3] Brother Gulam Abbas Hudda, a Bustan-e-Zahra Executive Committee Member meets with guests attending a function [4] Participants attend a function at Bustan-e-Zahra. This section is dedicated to Al-Haqq readers, or their immediate familes, who have passed away. Please recite Sura Fatiha for all Marhumeen who have left this world. Marhuma Kulsum Bukhari Marhum Naushad Khimji & Family (died in car accident) Marhum Amirali Dewji There is no charge to have your loved ones mentioned in this section, but contributions are appreciated. Please call or the names to our Editorial Address. 19

22 20 AL-HAQQ NEWSLETTER Muballigheen Training Programme The Muballigheen Training Programme (MTP) is the single most important project in the history of the Khoja Shia Ithna Asheri Community. With a clear vision behind the commencement of the MTP, the World Federation is pleased to announce that the recruitment process is now open. The President of the World Federation, Dr Ahmed Hassam said,...this will inshaallah be a turning point in the history of our community. With this initiative, we will now be able to secure our own trained resident Aalims, who will be able to meet the needs of our communities, especially of the younger generation and also provide effective guidance to each and every Jamaat in the world participants will be selected for the start of the 4 year course on 8 September 2007 to begin a journey of a lifetime for the betterment of themselves and their community, both in this life and in the hereafter, by earning the pleasure of Allah (SWT) and spreading the message of the Ahlul Bayt (AS). Islamic Institute for Postgraduate Studies The Islamic Institute for Postgraduate Studies in Sayyida Zainab, Damascus (Syria) is a new and exciting development in teaching, and research in the study of Islam. It is an independent institute set up by The World Federation of KSIMC that offers a postgraduate Masters programme in Islamic Studies, combining standard Hawza training modules with modern academic subjects, validated by a renowned university in England. The Four year course is designed: 1. To provide an in depth study of the Qur an and its exegesis, sciences of Traditions, Jurisprudence, Principles of Jurisprudence, Logic, History, Islamic Theology, Philosophy and Ethics. 2. To provide the intellectual capability for the nonconfrontational defence of Islam and for the favourable presentation of Islam as per the teachings of the followers of the Members of the Household of the Prophet. 3. To develop in the participants, confidence in leading of all forms of congregational prayers, lecturing and conducting seminars in the language of the community and country. 4. To develop in the participants the competences necessary for undertaking guidance of community institutions like children s Madressah, schools, youth camps, seminars etc. 5. To develop in the participants the competences necessary for relating to all age and gender groups within a community. 6. To develop in the participants confidence in the performance of all Practical Religious Services. Upon the successful completion of the taught modules, participants will proceed to write and submit an MA dissertation. This will be a personal research project in a field of one s choosing. Although it will involve mostly personal study, there will be ample opportunities for individual tutorial support. To find out more about this programme, islamiceducation@world tion@world-federation.org

23 AL-HAQQ NEWSLETTER 21 Mom s Cartoon

24 22 AL-HAQQ NEWSLETTER One can only hope for their name to be used in daily conversation as one uses the Panjatan s names in their daily lives! A Mother s Prayer - $14.00 A comprehensive manual of prayers and devotional acts for couples wishing to have children and for all stages of a woman s pregnancy until childbirth and beyond A Mother s Prayer is a compilation of tried and tested prayers and supplications all of which have been extracted from the authentic and original sources of the teachings of the Prophet of Isl{m and the Ahlul Bayt. The Tasbih of Fatima Zahra - $4.00 A detailed look at the merits and spiritual blessings which one is worthy of receiving for the performance of the tasbih as seen in the traditions of the Prophet Mu ammad (peace and blessings of Alllah be upon him and his family) and his noble family members the Ahlul Bayt. Both books can be purchased from the Islamic Humanitarian Service. Address can be found on the EDITORIAL page. Alternately, you can purchase these books online from

25 AL-HAQQ NEWSLETTER 23 Books Published by the Islamic Education Board of the World Federation Sole Distributor for Canada & USA Islamic Humanitarian Service 81 Hollinger Crescent Kitchener, Ontario, Canada, N2K 2Y8 Tel: Fax: Ahadith on the Noble Qur {n $3.00 CAD Islam and Religious Pluralism $ CAD Guiding the Youth of the New Generation $5.00 CAD 40 Ahadith on Prophet Isa (Jesus) $3.00 CAD Anecdotes for Reflection Volume 2 $8.00 CAD Manifestations of the All Merciful $ CAD The Divine Invitation $5.00 CAD 180 Questions: Enquiries about Islam Volume 1 $8.00 CAD Anecdotes for Reflection Volume 2 $6.00 CAD Islam and Religious Pluralism 2 nd Edition $8.00 CAD 40 Ahadith: Essence of Worship [ªal{t] $3.00 CAD 40 Ahadith: Lofty Status of Parents $3.00 CAD Jesus on Ethics $2.00 CAD 40 Ahadith: The Spiritual Journey [ Hajj ] $3.00 CAD 40 Ahadith: Completion of Islam [ Ghadeer ] $3.00 CAD Introduction to the Science of Tafseer of the Qur {n $7.00 CAD 180 Questions: Enquiries about Islam Volume 2 $8.00 CAD 40 Ahadith: The Awaited Savior of Humanity $3.00 CAD Faith and Reason $ CAD From Union to Child: The Heavenly Path $ CAD

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27 Islamic Humanitarian Service Presents T h e I N T EDHAR G ro u p l e d b y S h a i k h Sh a f i q A Ziyarat Trip to IRAN and SYRIA in the summer of Information: Who: Anyone over the age of 14 What: A trip to Iran and Syria which includes: Visits to Holy Shrines Visits to historical places and sites of interest Educational lectures Discussions with scholars and much, much more! When: August 14 th September 1 st in the summer of 2007 (Rajab 30 th Shabaan 18 th, 1428) Cost: $ which includes: Ticket fares Visas (Iran and Syria) Accommodation Meals Transportation Etc **For more details, contact Sr. Shama Murtaza at the IHS Registration must be made by either mail, fax, or telephone by July10th/07 accompanied by a $ deposit. IHS ISLAMIC HUMANITARIAN SERVICE (Head Office) 81 Hollinger Crescent Kitchener, Ontario Canada, N2K-2Y8 Tel: Fax: ihs@primus.ca

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