Am I Still Jewish? (Part 1)

Who is a Jew? Controversial question among Jewish people. Answers differ depending upon who you ask.

According to Judaism 101 (http://www.jewfaq.org/whoisjew.htm), for example, Jewish religious law and traditional Orthodox groups make the determination through the maternal line. If one's mother is Jewish, he is Jewish. Even if he doesn’t practice Judaism or identify as a Jew, religious authorities will consider him to be a Jew. Even atheists born to Jewish mothers are considered to be Jews. Formal conversion to Judaism is also a legitimate path to Jewish identity. However, liberal Jewish groups, such as Reform Judaism, consider a person to be Jewish if either of his parents is Jewish and the child was raised Jewish. To muddy the waters further, some Orthodox groups do not recognize the conversions of those affiliated with the Conservative or Reform groups. And what about the people who consider themselves to be Jews who are the children or grandchildren of any of the above scenarios?

Oy Vey! It’s all so complicated.

In my case, my father was an Ashkenazic Jew and my mother was a Polish Catholic. They met and married while they were both serving in the military in 1947. My father was the first member of his family to marry outside of Judaism.

My father’s family tried hard to accept my mother. My great-grandmother, Fanny, taught my mom how to separate dishes in order to maintain a kosher kitchen. My grandmother, Lillian, taught my mom how to cook Jewish cuisine. They grew to love my mother and until her death, my mom affectionately called my grandparents “mother” and “dad”.

We became a blended family. When I arrived, my birth was a joyous occasion with me being the first Jewish grandchild. My grandfather went to the synagogue and gave me the Yiddish name of Heshke (sometimes spelled "Hashka") Ella bat Shimon. For my brother, four years later, there was the bris (circumcision ceremony).

One of the other things my parents did to try to make their interfaith marriage work was to celebrate the holidays of both traditions. My mom hosted the Christian and secular holidays at our house, and the Jewish ones were hosted in the home of my paternal grandmother. Although my brother and I were raised with smatterings of Christianity in our lives, we identified as being Jewish. We never attended church, but we did go to the synagogue. We perceived Christmas and Easter as extensions of the secular holidays, having no religious significance, just another day off from school.

It wasn't until my parents divorced and my mother moved out-of-state to live with her family that we were enrolled in a Catholic school and forced to practice Catholicism. Can you imagine? Two little Jewish children yanked away from a large, loving Jewish family and enrolled in a Catholic school? I was barely 12 years old. Within the timeframe of one year, the nuns prepared me for baptism, Holy Communion, and Confirmation. I was caught up in the whirlwind, too young to fully understand what was going on. I remember one time when a nun slapped my face because I told her that Jews did not kneel to pray.

At home, I was a grieving child in extreme emotional agony. My mother’s alcoholism was progressing, and I was also being molested by one of her brothers. My father had gotten remarried to a Jewish woman and they had a child, a little girl. How jealous I was that my sister had taken my daddy and had him all to herself! I felt abandoned and alone. Life as I had known before my parents’ divorce was stolen from me and replaced with a wretched nightmare from which I could not awaken.

It was during this time that I found comfort and solace in the Catholic Church. The image of the suffering, crucified Christ on the altar spoke to my own pain. The inviting, outstretched arms of the Virgin Mary statue from her niche nurtured and soothed my aching heart. Stories of martyred saints reinforced my sense of victim hood. I no longer felt alone.

At the same time, my identity as a Jew was strong. Summer vacations and regular phone contact maintained the ties of kinship with my father and the rest of my Jewish family. But they were so far away, and my Jewishness seemed out of immediate reach. Despite the psychological peace I felt when I attended mass, I knew in my heart that Jesus was not the son of God. Around the age of 16, I returned to Judaism. My grandfather wrote a letter of introduction to the rabbi at a local synagogue and asked him to accept me as a student. After almost a year of studying, the rabbi called me into his office one day after class and told me that he wanted me to join a class that was preparing for formal conversion to Judaism. Shocked, I replied, “But why? I’m already Jewish!” He calmly explained that I was not really Jewish because my mother was a Christian. Oh how I cried later that night in a telephone call to my grandfather. He gently encouraged me to participate in the conversion ceremony. I still remember his words: “This way, no one can ever say that you’re not a Jew.”

How could anyone say that I was not a Jew? Me, Heshke Ella bat Shimon, whose formative childhood years were spent immersed in Jewish culture and ethnicity. Did I need to convert because the wrong parent was Jewish?

To be continued, Insha Allah ...

Go Figure #1

(http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/They'll_Do_It_Every_Time)

Remember this cartoon strip? They'll Do It Every Time was created by Jimmy Hatlo and was syndicated to major newspapers in America. The series depicted frustrations and ironies of everyday life and people. I used to love this series when I was a kid.

Well, I'm going to start something similar called Go Figure. A place for little vents on my blog. Insha Allah I will figure out how to use cool pictures and graphics in the future.

To cristen my series, I start with Go Figure #1:

Oil prices fell to below $100 a barrel last night.

When oil prices rise, gas station owners run out (sometimes within hours) and increase their prices ... same gas they had in the ground before the oil prices increased.

Will gas station owners run out this morning and reduce prices?

Al-Huda Sunday School Library

Our masjid is doing some construction. So we asked the carpenter to build a "book shelf" in one of the school rooms for our new library. Alhamdulillah, look what he built:

Masha Allah!!! He made shelves across the entire wall! Now, Insha Allah, we will work to fill up the shelves!

For our start-up, we were granted a generous award by Muslim publisher, Linda Delgado (Sister Widad), owner of Muslim Writers Publishing MWP) http://www.muslimwriterspublishing.com/) and award-winning author of Islamic Rose books (IRB) (http://www.widad-lld.com/). MWP and IRB support literacy and Sister Widad dedicates the profits from the books she has authored toward buying books for Islamic school children's libraries.

Sister Widad ordered our books from Brother Adnan A. Khattar, Sales Manager, of Islamic Book Store (http://www.islamicbookstore.com/). Brother Adnan was very generous in offering the books to Sister Widad at a discount. He was also very efficient in shipping the books out to us in a timely manner.

Masha Allah, the teachers and students at Al-Huda school thank both Sister Widad and Brother Adnan for their generosity and commitment to Muslim children. May Allah (swt) reward both of them immensely/Ameen.

And may Allah (swt) reward our carpenter, too!

The kids are so excited, Alhamdulillah! They are looking forward to unpacking the books and arranging our library as soon as the construction is finished (a few more weeks, Insha Allah!).

One of our young girls came up to me today and proudly told me that she knows the Dewey Decimal System and volunteered to classify all of our books! I told her she would be my Assistant Librarian.

Please say dua for the continued success of our little school and our new library/Ameen.

Patty Sucks! (With Her New Oreck Vacuum Cleaner!)

(Image from: http://www.bbc.co.uk/parenting/your_kids/babies_colic.shtml)

Boo hoo ... I didn't win the Oreck Vacuum cleaner.

"Patty" did.

Mabrook Patty :)

Avoiding The Riba Trap

(image courtesy of http://www.infomerchant.net)

Media organizations such as CNN, NPR, and Fox have all recently covered the escalating problem of credit card debt in America. What has rekindled the interest in an old problem? In March of 2007, the reports and special features were prompted by a United States Senate hearing on the practices of the credit card industry, and separate warnings to the financial industry of possible legislation if reform does not occur.

Complaints about the industry include deceptive disclosure on credit card contracts that can result in high balances, and steep fees such as late fees, over-the-limit fees, and annual fees. Credit card companies can also change the terms and conditions of their contracts at any time. This includes their right to raise your interest rate if you pay late, even if it’s a late payment to another credit card company!

Advocates for consumers claim that the practices of credit card companies have resulted in alarming debt problems for the unsuspecting public. Many Americans, including Muslims, are experiencing difficulty paying their credit card bills. Advocates lay the blame for the problem squarely on the shoulders of the credit card industry, claiming that it takes advantage of people, and comparing the industry to loan sharks.

Here we are; it is nearly one year later and nothing has changed in the credit card industry. No reform or legislation has occurred. (Perhaps because our legislature is busy wasting time on the steroid scandals in professional sports?) To add to the problem, America is now buried in the sub-prime mortgage mess!

Credit cards can entice Muslims with their convenience and instant access, but they come with a potential risk. For example, factors such as health problems, job loss, divorce, and other unexpected expenses can all necessitate the need for money. New Muslims often come to Islam carrying large balances on interest-bearing credit cards and loans. Muslim children in America may tend to be just like their non-Muslim peers, constantly asking their parents to buy them things that other children have, or things that they see on the television. Some Muslim parents, who have difficulty saying “no” to their children, may overuse their credit cards in order to make their children happy. Other Muslims merely have a bad habit of overspending. All of these situations can result in what is known in Islam as riba.

A working definition of riba breaks it down into type types: (1) Riba Al-Fadl, which is the added charge to the money loaned because of delayed payment, which is definitely prohibited, and (2) Riba Al-Nasi’aa, which is a function of the term of financing (number of years to repay the loan). This form of Riba is used as a foundation for Murabaha contracts but with the provision that the added value after a certain number of years does not change if the person cannot pay back due to a legitimate excuse (LaRiba website). Some scholars claim that the whole business of signing contracts with interest clauses is prohibited due to the possibility that the Muslim may activate the interest clause if he finds himself in a position where he is unable to pay on time. While scholars may differ in their interpretations of riba, they all agree that paying interest is prohibited.

Allah Almighty has made clear His position on riba: “Those who eat Riba (usury) will not stand (on the Day of Resurrection) except like the standing of a person beaten by Shaitan (Satan) leading him to insanity. That is because they say: ‘Trading is only like Riba (usury),’ whereas Allah has permitted trading and forbidden Riba (usury). So whosoever receives an admonition from his Lord and stops eating Riba (usury) shall not be punished for the past; his case is for Allah (to judge); but whoever returns [to Riba (usury)], such are the dwellers of the Fire - they will abide therein.” (2:275)

Riba is a huge business in America. But, can Muslims really live without using credit cards? Can they use them responsibility and insulate themselves against the danger of riba? While the rest of the country is waiting for the credit card industry to reform itself, Muslims would benefit from finding solutions within an Islamic framework to resolve financial difficulties and maintain financial health.

- Be mindful of Allah Almighty’s exhortation to avoid riba.
- Be steadfast in your deen and make du’a for Allah to change your financial situation. Remember that what you want and what you need are two different things.
- If you are not currently overburdened with credit card debt, follow the practice of the Prophet, sallallahu alayhe wa sallam, and invoke Allah saving, “O Allah, I seek refuge with you from all sins, and from being in debt.” (Bukhari)
- Live within your means; remember that the wasting of money is prohibited in Islam.

Some advice for managing money and utilizing credit wisely includes:

- Budgeting. Make a budget, and stick to it as closely as possible.
- Use Layaway. Look for stores that offer layaway programs for your large items. Many businesses offer layaway at no extra charge. Some stores offer no-interest payment plans to qualified buyers.
- Family. Sometimes family can help with unexpected expenses.
- Pay in Full. If you do use a credit card, charge only what you can afford to pay for in full when the bill comes.
- Avoid Cash Advances. Do not use cash advance; riba accumulates on the advance from day one.
- Borrow From Yourself. Save an amount of money equivalent to a credit card limit. Spend from that fund, and then repay yourself!
- Teach Children Financial Responsibility. Help your kids to develop sound money management. Give them an allowance if possible. Assign them chores appropriate for their age group so that they can earn money to buy what they want. Encourage them to save. Buy them a little bank to keep on their dressers, or engage them in a fun project of making a little savings bank. (Don’t forget to teach your children about charity!)

If you are currently experiencing financial problems:

- Do Not Despair. Make a sincere intention to Allah (swt) to repay your credit card debt and ask Him for help. Narrated Abu Huraira, “The Prophet, sallallahu alayhe wa sallam, said, ‘Whoever takes the money of the people with the intention of repaying it, Allah will repay it on his behalf, and whoever takes it in order to spoil it, then Allah will spoil him.’” (Bukhari)
- Seek Credit Counseling. Do your research well in order to avoid hidden costs. Some of these companies have been known to get your interest rates eliminated.
- Refinance With Islamic Banks. Access to Islamic banks and financial service companies is growing in America. Talk to them about refinancing your current debt. New Muslims can also refinance riba-bearing mortgages with these institutions. It is incumbent upon Islamic banks and financial service companies to work with you within an Islamic framework should you experience legitimate difficulty repaying your loan.

Muslims can obtain financial health and avoid the potential traps that can result from irresponsible use of credit cards. Answers exist within an Islamic context to help guide the Muslim toward success.

Win an Oreck XL Vacuum

Man, with my bad back, I could really use this ultra light vacuum cleaner: the Oreck XL Ultra.

There is a giveaway contest at http://www.5minutesformom.com/2943/oreck/

All you have to do is make a post on your blog like I am doing now and provide a few links. Check it out at the link above!

While you're at it, you can see the vacuum cleaner at http://www.oreck.com/upright-vacuum-cleaners/intellashield_xl_ultra.cfm?keycode=CC575

Improve Your Vocabulary While Feeding the Hungry!

Here is a website that donates 20 grains of rice (through the United Nations) for each word you can correctly define!

It's a great opportunity to improve your vocabulary while helping to feed the world's hungry people.

Check it out! It's actually a bit addicting.

http://www.freerice.com/

Washing and Shrouding the Deceased Muslim

Alhamdulillah, this is an important topic and this wonderful video from IslamWay demonstrates the exact procedures.

http://www.islamictube.net/watch/1514326458/Washing-&-Shrouding-the-Deceased---By-IslamWay

Righteous Muslim Women

Although Muslim men and women differ biologically, Islam recognizes their essential human dignity as individuals.

Concerned about the position of women in Islam, Umm Salamah once asked the Prophet, sallallahu alayhe wa sallam, why there was no mention of women in the Qur’an. Allah then revealed the following verse to the Messenger, sallallahu alayhe wa sallam: “Verify, the Muslims (those who submit to Allah in Islam), men and women, the believers men and women (who believe in Islamic Monotheism), the men and the women who are obedient (to Allah), the men and women who are truthful (in their speech and deeds), the men and the women who are patient (in performing all the duties which Allah has ordered and in abstaining from all that Allah has forbidden), the men and the women who are humble (before their Lord Allah), the men and the women who give Sadaqat (i.e. Zakat, and alms, etc.), the men and the women who observe Saum (fast) (the obligatory fasting during the month of Ramadan, and the optional Nawafil fasting), the men and the women who guard their chastity (from illegal sexual acts) and the men and the women who remember Allah much with their hearts and tongues (while sitting, standing, lying, etc. for more than 300 times extra over the remembrance of Allah during the five compulsory congregational prayers) or praying extra additional Nawafil prayers of night in the last part of night, etc.) Allah has prepared for them forgiveness and a great reward (i.e. Paradise).” (33:35)

Muslim men and women are companions in this life, spiritual equals in the sight of Allah. They work together to fulfill their roles in order to seek the pleasure of Allah and to earn a place in Jannah. Allah has told us: “Men are the protectors and maintainers of women, because Allah has made one of them to excel the other, and because they spend (to support them) from their means. Therefore, the righteous women are devoutly obedient (to Allah and to their husbands), and guard in the husband’s absence what Allah orders them to guard (e.g. their chastity, their husband’s property, etc.).” (4:34) So, what special gifts are Muslim women endowed with by Allah that enhances them as members of family and community? What attributes equip Muslimahs to fulfill their roles as devout servants of Allah?

Muslim women can strive to model the attributes that contributed to the strength of character of the Sahabiyat (Mothers of the Believers and other women companions of our Prophet, sallallahu alayhe wa sallam). Some of the attributes for which they were praised, both in their lifetimes and today, include:

Obedience. They were Allah-fearing women, faithful in carrying out all of their religious duties, including obedience to the authority of their husbands.

Honesty. They were women with the highest degree of integrity, truthful in speech and in deed.

Patience. They were content even in times of harshness and adversity, trusting in the will of Allah.

Humility. They lacked arrogance and haughtiness.

Gentleness. They were kind women, who nurtured each other and maintained the ties of kinship. They displayed a loving and caring attitude toward their husbands and children.

Generosity. They were selfless women, often sacrificing for the sake of others. They worked hard and often gave away everything they had.

Virtuous. They were chaste, modest women.

Good Manners. The Sahabiyat were known for having a friendly, agreeable, and respectful nature.

These attributes contributed to the achievement of the Sahabiyat in spheres of life beyond the home. In addition to a comprehensive knowledge of Islam, they were active in religious, political, and educational endeavors. Many had knowledge of the fine arts, medicine, industry, trade, and commerce (Ghadanfar, 2001). Scholars agree that they were courageous women of valor, frequently using their talents to assist in jihad. They possessed wisdom and intelligence. They were faithful and loyal companions of the Prophet, sallallahu alayhe wa sallam, and their strength of character helped to build the emerging Muslim community.

Recalling the excellent character attributes of the Sahabiyat can serve to inspire Muslim women living in current times. Demands of modern day living have put increasing pressure on Muslim women. The challenges they face are different. For example, the divorce rate among Muslims is at an all-time alarming high. Many divorced and unmarried Muslim women have been forced by necessity to leave their homes and children in order to work and support themselves. Muslim children are being raised in non-Muslim daycare centers. Some Muslim teenagers and young adults are abandoning Islamic values. Muslim elders are being neglected, and in some cases, astagfurallah, are even being abused! Domestic violence among Muslims is on the rise. We must find ways to work within an Islamic framework to cope and make our lives more manageable.

While the solution for some of these ills is the personal responsibility of all Muslims, efforts by Muslimahs to develop a strong character can help to safeguard the Muslim family and Muslim community from moral degeneracy. It is critical that the Muslim woman use her special gifts from Allah. The Prophet, sallallahu alayhe wa sallam, said that, “Paradise is at the feet of the mother.” What a precious responsibility we are given in this life! We are entrusted with the physical and emotional care of our children. We are our child’s first teacher in this life. Muslim mothers teach their children religious obligations and good manners. Strength of character endows the Muslim mother with the grace she needs to ensure the success of her children.

What are some of the ways that Muslim women can strengthen their characters and apply the attributes of the Sahabiyat in their everyday lives?

· Be devoted to Allah, and diligent with religious obligations. Your relationship with Allah is the most important relationship you have in life.
· Read inspiring stories about the Sahabiyat. Learn how they lived, and how they applied the principles of Islam to their daily lives.
· Read exciting stories about the children of the Sahabah to your kids. Some of the Sahabah themselves were known to have memorized the Qur’an in childhood.
· Keep company with pious sisters. Invite them to your home. Make sure that you accept invitations. We are all busy, but maintaining the bonds of sisterhood is important.
· Use the Internet. Email sisters, to brighten their day, to keep in touch with those who have moved. Join an e-group for new Muslim women.
· Start halaqas or attend established ones in your area. They are indispensable for learning more about Islam.
· Teach your daughters, talk to them often, help them with potential problems and pressures they may experience in school, especially if they are not attending an Islamic school, or are not being home schooled.
· Converse with your elderly female relatives.
· Spend time with your husband! And don’t forget to look nice and smell nice for him. It’s easy to let yourself go when you’re busy working, cooking, running after the kids, etc.
· Be a good steward of your husband’s property; show gratitude to him for taking care of you and your family.
· Thank your mother.
· Find a charity and support it with either your time or money, if possible.
· Read, learn, and educate yourself.
· Baby sit for a sister when possible. We all need a break.
· Ride an elderly sister to the market.
· Phone a sister who lives alone.
· Visit the sick.
· Share food.

These are just a few ways that you can strengthen your character and please Allah.

Remember, sisters, the words of our beloved Messenger, sallallahu alayhe wa sallam: “This world is nothing but a temporary convenience, and the greatest joy in this world is a righteous woman.” (Muslim)

Islamic Sunday School

I went to our masjid school this morning and met with the principal, also sat in on one of her classes, an Arabic class. The students were around ages 10-14 or so. And all of them so bright and eager to learn, Masha Allah! Most of them are of Indo-Pak heritage, born or America or brought here at a very early age. So, the Arabic is a huge jihad for them, as it is for many of us. The principal has a friend visiting from Jordan who has a degree in Islamic studies. She also took time with the class and helped the students to perfect their Arabic pronounciation. For right now, I will be showing up at the school and getting to know the children, Insha Allah. This way they will be comfortable with me. The plan is for me to act as a substitute teacher, Insha Allah. In the meantime, my next assignment is to give a 15-minute presentation on Judaism!

More Blessings: Opportunity to Teach Muslim Children

(One of my favorite Muslim kids in the whole world: Little Sister Tamika)

Tonight I went to a party at our masjid in honor of our returning Hajjis. Great party, but the most exciting part of the evening:

The principal asked me to teach at the school on Sundays!!!

Alhamdulillah! Allah (swt) is truly opening doors for me. First the chaplain opportunity, and now this!

I'm meeting with the principal tomorrow and will update you, Insha Allah!

Jewish and Muslim Youth to Meet in Milan Italy

Milan, 23 Jan. (AKI) - Representatives from Italy's Muslim and Jewish youth organisations will meet in Milan on Thursday as part of an initiative for inter-religious dialogue. The president of the Young Jews of Italy, Daniele Nahim, will sit next to Abdallah Kabakebbji, a representative of the young Muslims of Italy, at an exhibition entitled "The Fairness of Islam".

Read story at: http://www.adnkronos.com/AKI/English/Religion/?id=1.0.1802166554

Safiyyah bint Abd al-Muttalib al-Qurshiyah

When I came to Islam in 1998, Alhamdulillah, like many new Muslims, I decided to choose a "Muslim" name. Although changing a name is not a requirement for new Muslims, it is certainly an option.

I began to read Islamic books so I could carefully choose a name. Since I was re-verting to Islam from Judaism, I was happy to read that our Prophet (saw) had two wives who came from Judaism: Juwariyyah and Safiyyah (ra). I decided to call myself Juwariyyah, but Alhamdulillah, I could not even pronounce my own new name! So I told all my new Muslim sisters that I was changing my name to Safiyyah. Although I can now pronounce the name Juwariyyah, I remain Safiyyah.

Insha Allah, this post will be a work-in-progress, because in researching other topics relevant to Islam, I discovered other righteous Muslim women who also bear the beautiful name of Safiyyah. For example, a group of my sisters at our masjid is currently seeking knowledge about how to wash and shroud deceased Muslims (will write another post about this, Insha Allah). We are a tiny masjid, Alhamdulillah, and a few of us sisters are approaching advanced age, Alhamdulillah (including yours truly!).

Researching washing/shrouding, I discovered that the Messenger (saw) had an aunt Safiyyah (ra). She is mentioned in the context of the lack of sufficient number of shrouds to cover those killed in the Battle of U`hud.

Az-Zubair ibn al-`Awwam, (ra) said, "During the battle of U`hud, a woman was walking and almost reached where the martyrs were said. The Prophet (saw) disliked her seeing the dead, so he said, 'The woman! The woman!' I thought that it was my mother Safiyyah, so I rushed to her side and reached her before she reached the corpses. She struck me in my chest, and she was a strong woman, saying, 'Go away from me, may you have no land to carry you!' I said, 'Allah's Messenger, salla allahu `alaihi wa-sallam, strongly wants you to stop.' She stopped.* She held two garments that she brought with her, saying, 'I brought these two garments for my brother `Hamzah, because I heard that he was killed. Use them as shrouds for him.' (Ahmad, 1418, Baihaqi, 3:401 - quoted in Zad-u Ma'ad 4, Provisions for the Hereafter, Ibn Qayyim al-Jauziyyah, English verision, Pg. 71) translated by Jalal Abualrub).

During this discussion, the authors make an interesting observation about the character of Safiyyah (ra):

*Contemplate how obedient and faithful Safiyyah was. She was the Prophet's aunt and the sister of `Hamzah, his uncle. `Hamzah was so beloved to the Prophet, peace be upon him, that when he saw his dead, mutilated body, he stated that never before did he suffer a loss like his loss in `Hamzah, who was the Lion of Allah and the Lion of Allah's Prophet and the strongest man in the tribe of Quraish. Yet, Safiyyah, may Allah be pleased with her and with `Hamzah, did not move towards his dead body when she heard the Prophet's order. She did not wail, tear her clothes or shave her hair. Do women still give birth to those who are remotely similar to Safiyyah? (Ibid, Pg. 72)



Along side the body of `Hamzah (ra) was a dead Ansar. Because the Ansari man had no shroud, a lottery was conducted between the two deceased men and each was then covered with the garment (shroud) that was his share.

The Prophet (saw) felt compassion for Safiyyah (ra). Anas (ra) reported, "During the battle of Uhud, Allah's Apostle (saw) passed by (the dead body of his uncle) Hamzah ibn Abdul Muttalib who was mutilated. He (saw) said, 'If I did not fear that Safiyyah might feel sad (in her heart), I would have left him exposed (so that beasts and birds eat his body), until Allah resurrects him from the stomachs of birds and beasts.'" (Al-Albani, A`hkamu al-Jana-iz, Pg. 79-85, as quoted in Zad-u Ma'ad 4, Provisions for the Hereafter, Ibn Qayyim al-Jauziyyah, English version, Pg. 78) translated by Jalal Abualrub).

May Allah (swt) grant us daughters remotely similar to Safiyyah, aunt of our Messenger (saw) and sister of the Lion of Allah/Ameen.

Muslims Restore Synagogues in Rural Tunisia

Jewish women light candles at a shrine inside the Ghriba synagogue in Djerba, Tunisia, the oldest synagogue in North Africa.

Article Linked with Permission of JTA - The Global News Service of the Jewish People

By Larry Luxner
Published: 01/16/2008

LE KEF, Tunisia (JTA) -- A man on a donkey shuffles by, collecting trash in the midday heat. Merchants hawk their wares in French and Arabic from stalls lining the cobblestone streets. In this a sun-drenched city of 120,000, where Jews are about as common as snowflakes, the local synagogue has become a tourist attraction.

The last Jew left in 1984," said Salem Zenan, caretaker of the synagogue known simply as the Ghribet el-Yahud -- sanctuary of the Jews. "But when I was little, we lived with Jewish people. I'm happy that visitors still come here."

Zenan, 54, says about a dozen tourists stop by the synagogue every day. A glance at the official guest book reveals entries from the United States, Europe, Lebanon and even Libya.

The Le Kef synagogue, among the most isolated in North Africa, is one of several across Tunisia that is enjoying a renaissance of sorts with official support from President Zine al-Abidine Ben Ali.

Read the rest of the article at:

http://www.jta.org/cgi-bin/iowa/news/article/200801161113tunisiafeature.html

Britney Spears - Converting to Islam???!!!

http://news.sawf.org/Gossip/46670.aspx

As I was waiting in line at the grocery store today, my eyes scanned the usual collection of magazines.

One, however, JUMPED out at me: OK! Weekly (1/28/08).

The front cover headlines screamed:

"Britney's Shocking Decision: Trying to Get Pregnant"

OK - ready for the rest?!

"Losing her boys, BRIT plans to have more children and convert to Islam for her married lover."

WHAT!

The lucky "brother" is 35 year old, married, paparazzo Adnan Ghalib.

OK!'s Cover Story writers, Mary Ann Norbom and Shauna Bass write:

"According to Britain's News of the World, Baptist-born Britney has told pals she's willing to adopt Adnan's Islam faith. (The singer has a history of turning to religion in times of crisis and was spotted crying at the Little Brown Church in Van Nuys, Calif., following her Jan. 14 court hearing.) A relative of Adnan reportedly told the newspaper, 'Although his father has disowned him, there is still a way back - if Britney became a Muslim and they got married.' Britney certainly seems willing."

However, a News of the World story reports that Adnan Ghalib's family are very distraught about the whole affair (http://www.newsoftheworld.co.uk/1301_britney_spears.shtml):

"Now we can reveal that Ghalib's respectable Sunni Muslim family in Birmingham are so horrified by his antics that they have disowned him.

One family member told us: "His parents Ghalib and Saghra are devastated. This week his dad gave him an ultimatum, ‘Give up Britney, or you are dead to me,' which Adnan ignored."

They also report that the photographer told his friend that he and Britney had "deep feelings" and have discussed marriage.

So does this mean that Britney will become a co-wife?

Will she wear hijab?

Hey! Who knows?

A story to watch. Allah (swt) can do anything!

Permissibility of Entertaining Children With Magic Shows?

Howard Thurston, Magician
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Thurston_magician_poster.jpg

Some of our masjid members had an after-Eid party at one of our local fire halls a few days ago.

I was sitting at one of the long tables, eating with two sisters I invited, when we suddently heard the opening lines of the song Goodbye Yellow Brick Road by Elton John.

WTH???

That got our attention, but what came next was mindblowing. Apparently, the music was used to get everybody's attention. For what?

A magic show for the children.

Ya Allah! I couldn't believe it. I turned around and said to one of the sisters, "Who arranged this? Magic is haram in Islam." To which she replied,

"Well, uh ... you know, it's just for the children."

What are we teaching our children? And at a Muslim affair?

So, I went looking for fatwa/daleel against such entertainment for children. Sure that I would find it. I wanted to send it to the sister who organized the dinner. I found the usual daleel on the Salafi websites, of course, but to my disbelief, I also found the following fatwa on IslamOnline:

Is It Unlawful in Islam to Entertain Children at the Islamic Center With A "Magic Show"?

Dear questioner, thank you very much for having confidence in us, and we hope our efforts, which are purely for Allah's Sake, meet your expectations.

Magic shows that are done for entertainment purposes are not considered part of prohibited magic or sihr. Such form of play that is meant to entertain children is permissible. However, it is the duty of parents to teach their children not to be deceived by illusions that are done by some people who may use the sleight of their hands and make them believe that they control supernatural powers.

In his response to the question, Dr. Muzammil Siddiqi, former president of the Islamic Society of North America (ISNA), states the following:

“The word "magic" has many definitions in English language. It could mean 'black magic' which may include sorcery, amulets, talismans, potions, charms, spells exorcism etc. But it could also mean just a sleight of hands used for entertainment. The "magic shows" generally belong to this last category and I do not think doing such acts for the purpose of entertainment is haram or makruh in Islam.

Islam forbids sihr and in the Qur'an and Hadith it is very strongly condemned. In the Qur'an the word sihr occurs in more than sixty places. Sometimes it is mentioned that the non-believers abused Allah's Prophets and called their miracles or effective words as sihr or magic. But there was a big difference between the Prophets' miracles and magic.

The Qur'an refers to the character of the Prophets and to the purity of their message and says that this cannot be called magic and the Prophets of Allah cannot be called magicians.

Those who practiced sihr used to believe in some demonic powers and used to worship devils and evil sprits. They used to spend time in wilderness living with human and animal corpses or even practicing cannibalism. Sahirs (magicians) were often people of evil character who used to use their illusions to mislead people or to harm others. Sometimes the Sahirs used to make big claims of controlling the powers of the unseen world and in this way they used to exploit the simple people. Magic in this sense or sihr, witchcraft, oracles, palmistry, fortune telling etc. are all forbidden or haram in Islam.

However, mere tricks for entertainment purposes should not be called sihr in the classical sense. Through these shows we can teach our children that they should not be deceived by illusions. Some people may use the sleight of their hands and make them believe that they control supernatural powers. Children should be aware of those characters and should not be naive to believe such people.”

http://www.islamonline.net/servlet/Satellite?pagename=IslamOnline-English-Ask_Scholar/FatwaE/FatwaE&cid=1119503545914

What do you think?

Sura Maryam (Mary Mother of Jesus) Mishary Rashed Alafasy

Enjoy this beautiful Quran recitation.

Jazaka Allahu Khayr to Aboo Uthmaan.

Til Death Do Us Part or Until There Are No More Bhuttos to Assassinate

Benazir Bhutto - Pakistan

Chairperson for Life

Benazir Bhutto and Her Husband Asif Ali Zardari

Called "The Nelson Mandela of Pakistan" by his wife

Called "Mr. 10 Percent" by the Pakistani Press

Idi Amin of Uganda

President for Life

Benazir Bhutto's Husband and 19 year old son, Bilawal - Successor to Benazir Bhutto

Francois Davalier ("Papa Doc") of Haiti

President for Life

Also Succeeded by His 19 Year Old Son

I felt I needed to write something about the Bhutto situation. This is what I came up with. Sorry. You can make your own inferences.

Hajj - My Husband Makes The Journey of His Lifetime

Alhamdulillah, my husband is making Hajj!

He went with the Al-Mu'adhdhan Hajj Group, Al-Furqan Bookstore, Philadelphia, PA. So far, so good. This group has done a great job, and everything leading up to the big departure day has gone smoothly, Masha Allah.

One of my sister friends was anxiously biting her nails waiting for notification of Visa approval. Alhamdulillah, the approval came and she leaves tomorrow.

My husband's group left Philadelphia on Tuesday, December 4th. They flew into New York City and from there took a flight to Cairo, Egypt. From Cairo, they departed to Jeddah and transferred to Al-Shohada Hotel in Mecca. Hubby tells me that this hotel is very nice, Masha Allah.

I was intially worred because we agreed to text message daily. You know, just "am OK" kind of thing. When I hadn't heard anything from him toward the end of the week, I phoned Verizon Wireless. I thought maybe I had to add something to our cellphone plan, but I was told that Verizon Wireless does not work in Saudi Arabia. Arggggg!. But at last hubby called me from a call center - at 4 a.m. my time! Saudi is 8 hours ahead of us.

He performed Umrah for the first time in his life, Alhamdulillah! He was so excited when he called me that he could barely put his experience into words.

One bad thing did happen, however. When he and his friend leaned into the Kabbah, someone stole the friend's fanny pack. Can you imagine? Stealing right at the Kabbah, Allah (swt) forgive us!

On the way back to the hotel, my husband's sandals slipped off. His friend picked them up, but the crowds were so intense, and hubby and his friend got separated. So hubby had to walk back to the hotel barefoot, lol.

Another thing that happened was my husband stopped to eat at a street vendor. He ordered a sandwich and the meat was on one of those large spools, the kind where the vendor slices it off for the sandwiches. My husband got violently ill after eating there. He ignored the advice of the Hajj group not to eat anywhere, if possible, outside of the hotel.

And today he has a bad cold. There are millions of people from all over the world there and not everyone has total immunity from all the different types of germs.

But all in all, he has not let this ruin his trip of a lifetime at all! He is so happy!

Tomorrow they check out of the hotel and head for Medinah. They will be staying at the Dallah Taibah Hotel. At some point, the group will be transferred to Mena where they will be staying in tents close to the Jamarat.

Alhamdulillah! I am so happy for my husband. I miss him and wish I could be with him to share the experience.

I'll let you know how the rest goes when he calls me.

Oh Allah, Blessed Allah, please keep my husband safe and accept his Hajj/Ameen.

Festivals & Celebrations in Islam - Imam al-Jibaly

Hand colored, engraved print, published in 1834 - Wild Male Turkey

http://www.lonestarantiquemaps.com/wildturkeymale.htm

Muslims all over America are celebrating the Thanksgiving holiday today.

"What does it hurt?" some say. What's wrong with getting together with family over a nice meal to express thanks and gratitude for the blessings we enjoy.

"It's not a religious holiday," others claim. "What's wrong with observing a secular holiday? It will help our children feel more like a part of America."

Yet others claim that the values of Thanksgiving are compatible with Islamic values.

But who is it that we are thanking for our blessings? Who are Muslims expressing gratitude to while observing Thanksgiving?

When I was a child, we celebrated Thanksgiving. My father was Jewish and my mother was Catholic. So, we celebrated the religious holidays of both faith traditions. We also celebrated the secular holidays of America.

But most traditional Orthodox Jewish people do not celebrate holidays such as Thanksgiving. They do not observe any non-Jewish holidays. It is perceived as imitating the "Gentiles" and their customs, a prohibition found in Leviticus 18:3. Some Jews do not consider it to be Halakhic (acceptable according to Jewish law). Read more at http://www.myjewishlearning.com/holidays/About_Jewish_Holidays/Secular_Holidays/Thanksgiving.htm?OVRAW=muslims%20and%20thanksgiving&OVKEY=jew%20and%20thanksgiving&OVMTC=advanced&OVADID=1537331522&OVKWID=12847858522

In Islam, it is also encumbered upon Muslims to differ from the non-Muslims.

Imam Muhammad al-Jibaly covers this topic thoroughly in his book, Festivals & Celebrations in Islam, 2nd Edition. He explains that differing from the non-Muslims is a religious requirement.

"Adhering to the way of the believers helps a Muslim maintain a distinctive Islamic personality and avoid dissolving in the beliefs and customs of un-Islamic cultures," al-Jibaly explains, "even in matters that may be thought unimportant, such as personal demeanor and attire." He goes on to cite other examples of commands issued by the Prophet (saw) such as "sparing the beard, trimming the mustache, dying the white hair, keeping the wife's company during her menses, eating a pre-dawn meal (suhur) before fasting, cleaning the houses and courtyards, and so on."

If we fail to differ from the non-Muslim, we are in danger of becoming one of them.

Ibn Umar (ra) reported that the Messenger (saw) said: "Whoever imitates a people is one of them." (recorded by Abu Dawud, Ahmad, and others. Verified to be authentic by al-Albani)

Imam al-Jibaly also states that Muslims do not gain dignity by imitating non-Muslims:

"Muslims are blessed with the BEST guidance. The Guidance from the Lord of lords - Allah (swt). This gives them true dignity and honor that no other people can claim. Allah (swt) says:

'Honor belongs to Allah, to His Messenger, and to the Believers.' (Al-Munafiqun 63:8)

Therefore, a Muslim is required to have a distinctive Islamic identity that makes him stand out honorably among followers of other religions.

Unaware of this, some Muslims, presuming that Islam permits resembling the non-Muslims and acting in complete harmony with them, are afraid of exhibiting a distinctive Islamic identity or proclaiming Islam openly."

The only holidays condoned by Islam are the religious occasions of the weekly id every Friday, and the two annual ids - al-Fitr and al-Adha. Al-Jibaly also tells us that "in addition, the day that precedes Id al-Adha (i.e., the Day of Arafah) and the three days that folow it were named by the Prophet (saw) as id days because they supplement Id al-Adha in regard to hajj and sacrifice."

Given the above, can we Muslims really ask ourselves, "what does it hurt" to celebrate non-Muslim holidays such as Thanksgiving? Is this what we want our children to be a part of?

Allah (swt) has answered this for us in An-Nisa 4:115:

"If a person opposes the Messenger, after guidance has become clear to him, and follows other than the path of the believers, We will give him what (consequence) he chose and admit him into Hell - what an evil destination!"

(To learn more, read Festivals & Celebrations in Islam, 2nd Edition, by Muhammad al-Jibaly, Al-Kitaab & as-Sunnah Publishing. It can be obtained at http://islamicbookstore.com/b8498.html

Approval Received!

I spoke with our Facility Chaplain Director today. She told me that she received approval to proceed with my contract to be our Muslim chaplain.

Now it should just be a matter of formalizing the contract, Insha Allah!

I am so excited. It is beyond my wildest dreams to receive this opportunity from Allah (swt).

Keep saying dua for me!

10 And A Wake-Up!

Alhamdulillah for another 3-day weekend (Veteran's Day). I didn't do too much; have been enjoying my much-needed rest.


Retirement is on the horizon, Insha Allah!


This week I have 4 working days. Next week I have 3 working days. The following week will be my last week at work as a full-time substance abuse counselor. That week will be 4 working days because I am scheduled to attend a training on Islam and addiction that Friday.


So, "10 and a wake-up" as the inmates say!


I still haven't heard anything about the chaplain contract. But "no news is good news" right? What I mean is that I probably would have heard by now if there was an objection in Harrisburg (main office). Just waiting on government bureacracy to play out.


My colleagues are planning a retirement party for me. I am very touched by this kindness. I will truly miss providing direct clinical services in the addiction field. I have had the opportunity to work with some of the best in the field in my career.

Autumn Of My Life: Transition To A Career In Muslim Chaplaincy?

It's that time of the year again.

A few days ago, I went outside and prepared my garden for the winter, pulling out dying tomatoe vines, and dry stalks left over from the beautiful flowers of the summer.

This morning, I signed my retirement papers. I have been employed in the field of Corrections for almost 10 years.

Just like fall is an exciting time because of all the beautiful colors and smells, so is the prospect of retirement. The end of one season. The start of a new one. Exciting, but a transition nonetheless.

I remind myself that I will now have time to do the things that I like to do: writing, jewelry-making cooking, homemaking, gardening ... Yes, I know. I can do them and still hold down a full time job, but I would like to devote myself fully to these activities. I have held down a full time job for most of my life. I am close to 60 years old. I'm sick of it.

I need to get my health in order. Also need to lose weight. No use in being retired and not having the health to enjoy life.

Hubby and I are also planning to buy a house in 2008, Insha Allah. I am real excited about that! And could spend at least a year getting it the way I like it.

But the biggest transition, Insha Allah, will be to a retirement career as a Muslim chaplain.

I currently work in a maximum security state prison for women. Our Muslim chaplain did not renew her contract because she wants to finish school at Hartford Seminary. So, the prison invited me to apply. I should know something by the end of November. At the same time I will be retiring from my full time position. The Muslim chaplain contract is for one day a week, six hours. A perfect retirement gig, eh?! I am so looking forward to it. I have worn many hats in my career but I never thought I would have the opportunity to be a Muslim chaplain. Allah (swt) is truly good to me, Alhamdulillah.

Eid Party Conversation

Insha Allah everyone had a blessed Ramadhan and Eid Al-Fitr.

Eid parties at the masjid are usually pretty interesting for me, but this year some local Muslims got together and had an Eid party at a fire hall.

One long table was for the men and another one was reserved for the women and children.

I ended up sitting next to two elderly Pakistani ladies. One spoke English, but the other did not - she could only understand English. I have seen these ladies before, but never had much of a conversation with them other than to greet them with salaams. This time, however, we had an opportunity to chat: The conversation went something like this:

Pakistani Sister #1: Are you Arab?

Me: No.

Pakistani Sister #2 - Says something in Urdu to the other sister.

Pakistani Sister #1: She says you look Arab.

Me: No. I came to Islam from Judaism. Even some of the Arabs think I am an Arab. When they see me on the street, they speak to me in Arabic.

Pakistani Sister #1: (Pointing to my clothing) You dress like an Arab.

Me: Nope. I'm American.

Pakistani Sister #1: Your husband's an Arab?

Me: No. He's an American, too.

(Both Pakistani sisters look at each other ... hmmm)

Pakistani Sister #1: Where did he come here from?

Me: He was born here. He's African-American. That's him over there. (I point his direction.)

(Both sisters really look at each other now, lol. They decide to change the topic.)

Pakistani Sister #2 - Running her fingers up and down her arms.

Pakistanti Sisters #1 - (Pointing to my bangles) Your jewelry is even like the Arabs.

Me: Well, I guess us American sisters learn fast!

All three of us sisters have a hearty laugh and agree!

Fighting for the Right to Wear Hijab: Sisters of the Delaware County Prison

Carmen Sharpe-Allen, despite a good performance record, was fired in December 2005, from the Delaware County Prison (Pennsylvania) after a meeting with Warden Ronald Nardolillo.

Why?

Because she would not remove her khimar while on duty as a nurse at the prison.

Prison officials are being accused of violating workplace discrimination laws by firing Sister Carmen. A Federal lawsuit has been brought by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission on behalf of Sister Carmen and other female Muslim employees at the prison.

The Geo Group Inc., is the Florida-based private company that operates the Delaware County Prison.

An Associated Press article states that "(The prison) has forced its Muslim female employees to compromise their religious beliefs by removing their khimars while on duty or risk termination," according to the federal suite. The prison instituted the ban on head scarves in early 2005, the suite said."

The photo I have chosen for this post is of my Muslim sister's daughter. She is three years old, Masha Allah.

She was so happy that I wanted to photograph her in her little hijab, Alhamdulillah.

Insha Allah she will be able to always know the joy of wearing hijab due to the courage of Muslim sisters like those who work at the Delaware County Prison.

Inserting Culture Into Islam

Alhamdulillah, the month of Ramadhan is here!

But one issue bothers me every year. It has to do with the community iftaars at the masjid.

I have been to a few different masjids where it is the practice to have the men go through the line and eat before the women.

Where does this come from?

Is there an Islamic basis for this?

If so, someone please show me the daleel because it really burns me up. I think it may have more to do with culture, than with Islam.

At my current masjid, there are at least 5 women/children to every man.

While the men are going through the line, the children are usually crying because they are anxious to eat. The sisters have resorted to sending their children through the line with a father, older brother, etc.

We have two floors at the masjid. As is the case at most masjids, the men are upstairs (in a large, roomy area), and the women are downstairs (in a small, cramped space). We used to have the food upstairs and downstairs. There was no problem then. But then I suppose that someone thought it was too much work to haul the food upstairs to the men.

The solution?

Have them come downstairs and go through the line first.

I remember sometime ago, watching a TV documentary about food aid to poor countries, some of them Muslim countries. They mentioned that one of the problems was that when the food aid got to the villages, towns, etc., the men ate first and not much at all was left for the women and children. They were still starving. I felt angry hearing that.

argggggggggggggggggg! I know I am complaining. But ...

I just don't think there is an Islamic basis for this. If there is, someone please tell me and I will ask Allah for forgiveness.

The adab of America is "ladies first" lol!

Human Costs of the Iraq War

On this, the 6th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks in the United States, the sobering human costs of the Iraq War to date are (minimum figures):

U. S. Military - 3,774
U. K. Military - 169
"Other" - 129
U. S. Wounded - 36,943
Self-Inflicted - 122
Iraqi Civilians - 71,720 - 78,296
Journalists - 155
Contractors - 414

Sources:
http://www.icasualties.org/
http://www.iraqbodycount.org/

No group of people has suffered more than the Iraqi people in the "War on Terror".

Jihad

This image is from a poster for director Hina Khan's film, Jihad - Struggling With Islam. The film documents her personal jihad, her inner struggle, with her own faith and identity after the events of 9/11.

Many people do not understand that the term "jihad" has a meaning separate from that used by media and uninformed people. Jihad is mistakenly referred to as "holy war". Say the word jihad and images are conjured up of car bombs, expoding buildings, bearded men yelling "Allahu Akbar" and on and on. There is no such thing as a holy war in Islam.

Why am I writing about jihad?

Well, as my blog suggests, part of my name is Jihad. It is my husband's name. The Quran tells Muslims that we should keep the name of our fathers. My birth name is Sharon Elayne Levine. When I married my husband, I did not take his name as my last name. Rather, I inserted it before my father's name. Thus, I use the name of S. E. Jihad Levine. Among Muslims and close friends, I am known as "Safiyyah".

A friend of mine asked me to write a book review and back cover blurb for a Musim author who will soon be publishing her first book.

When I received the manuscript, it was badly in need of content and copy edit. It had numerous errors about Islam and the grammar was horrible. The author's first language is not English. So, I spent many hours and exchanged a number of emails in order to tighten up the manuscript. I then wrote a long review for the author to use for marketing purposes. Also did the blurb for the back cover. After many hours of work, I sent a good draft to the author and to my friend for their review. I didn't charge for this work. I did it as a favor for my friend. I also did it for the exposure. All I asked of the author was that she keep by byline intact when sending out the review. My byline included my name: S. E. Jihad Levine.

Well! The author sent an email to my friend stating that she was "alarmed" when she saw the word "jihad" in my name. She feels it may jeopordize what she is trying to achieve. And what is she trying to achieve?

She wants to market her book mainly to non Muslims. Muslims are not her target audience. The characters of her book are Muslims. She wants to present Islam in a positive light.

"Jihad" in someone's name may put off the non Muslims.

So, she asks, would I be willing to change my byline to "Safiyyah Levine" or "J. Levine".

No, I am not willing to sanitize my name for the non Muslims.

What is up with this internalized Islamophobia in some Muslims? Examples of it include:

1. Changing a Muslim name to an "American" one, i.e., Samir to Sammy, Mohammad to Moe, etc.
2. Not wearing a hijab.
3. Not wearing a beard.
4. Celebrating non-Islamic holidays, i.e., Christmas, Mother's Day, etc.

I'm sure you can think of more examples.

No non Muslim I know is put off by my name. As a matter of fact, my non Muslims friends think my name is comical ... a Muslim name and a Jewish name put together.

And I have never had a Muslim editor ask me to change/delete my Jewish name of "Levine".

Good thing my husband's name is not Sadaam or Osaama!

"Seemed To Be A Crisis"

This is a picture of one of my tomato plants from just a few weeks ago. Most of the plants only had one or two rippened tomatoes hanging from their branches. Every day I enjoyed a fresh tomato from the garden. It was heaven. But then it happened, like it does to gardeners everywhere: an explosion of rippened tomates!

So Alhamdulillah, this afternoon I made spaghetti sauce from scratch. As I sit here writing this, I am enjoying the aroma from the kitchen.

I had to do something soothing like cooking this afternoon. Because this morning, I experienced what seemed to be a crisis: our well stopped working.

We share a well with three other families. My neighbor's landlord came over and changed the filter on the well pump. Sometimes the filters get clogged up and then the water stops flowing.

After that, we had water. For about 15 minutes.

The landlord came back and found that the well filter was totally clogged again.

Our area is experiencing low levels of ground water because we have not had sufficient rain this summer. Because the well pump has to work harder to find and bring up water, it brings up a lot of soot that keeps clogging the filter. The landlord finally took the filter off so we could at least have running water.

But wait! It's UNFILTERED water. OK for the toilet, but what about for the showers! And washing the dishes! Never mind a load or two of laundry. That's out of the question. Now I have to spend my day off tomorrow at the laundromat.

The bottom line is that we have it deal with it while the landlord arranges to hook us up to the city's water supply.

I say that the situation "seemed to be a crisis" because after all the excitement was over, I sat down and thought of all the Muslims from various areas of the world who have no access to clean water.

I'm sure that many Muslims who live in regions where there is drought would be grateful for the unfiltered water that I have flowing through my pipes.

Many Muslims also live in areas where there is no indoor plumbing - running water, toilets, washing machines, dishwashers, etc. - all the conveniences of modern life that many Muslims enjoy by the Mercy of Allah (swt).

I'm sure that some would even be grateful for my homemade spaghetti.

I'm now sure that it is not a crisis after all. Inconvenient, yes. Crisis, no.

"Allah is He Who sends forth the winds so they raise a cloud, then He spreads it forth in the sky as He pleases, and He breaks it up so that you see the rain coming forth from inside it; then when He causes it to fall upon whom He pleases of His servants, lo! They are joyful ... Look then at the signs of Allah's mercy, how He gives life to the earth after its death, most surely He will raise the dead to life; and He has power over all things." (30:48-50)

Pregnant Somali Mom and Daughter Missing in Minnesota Bridge Collapse

Please say dua for the family of Sister Sadiyah and her little daughter Hanah. Sister Sadiyah is a 23 year old nursing student. She is also five months pregnant.

An online news article at KARE11.com said that Minneapolis Somali leader Mohamed Hassan called Sahal a bright light, "She was an active young lady who had a beautiful life in front of her."

Read the entire article about those still missing at http://www.kare11.com/news/news_article.aspx?storyid=261310

May Allah (swt) give His comfort to this sister's family, and to everyone affected by this tragedy/Ameen.

Stuffing Prisons With Black Men - by Harold Jackson

What do you think of the article below?

Pittsburgh Tribune-Review 8/4/07

STUFFING PRISONS WITH BLACK MEN

by Harold Jackson

Only about 2 percent of Iowa's population is black. But blacks are 13.6 times more likely than whites to be imprisoned there. That's more than twice the national average, which is bad enough. Hispanics nationally are imprisoned at double the rate of whites.

I shouldn't pick on Iowa, though. I live in New Jersey, where blacks are imprisoned at 10 times the rate of whites. In Pennsylvania, it's five times.

You would think the disparities would be worse in the Old South states ...

READ THE REST OF MR. JACKSON'S ARTICLE AT: http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/search/s_520617.html

Laundry Day Visitor #2

A Laundry Day Visitor!

Alhamdulillah For Halal Butchers

I heard another piece on the evening news tonight about the use of carbon monoxide by U.S. meatpackers. This issue was in the news a few years ago when fresh food advocates asked the U.S. FDA to ban the practice.

http://www.organicconsumers.org/foodsafety/carbonmonoxide112205.cfm

Meatpackers use carbon monoxide to make meat look fresh. It is necessary, in part, because the practice of buying meat that is sliced or prepared on spot is becoming a thing of the past. Most big modern grocery stores sell pre-packaged meat. Shoppers spend a lot of time looking at the different packages of steak or ground meat in order to find the pinkest package. This, they believe, is the freshest meat.

Grocers like the practice of using carbon monoxide to make meat stay pink because people will not buy brown meat. Reports claim that grocers suffer a huge financial loss when they have to discard less-than-pink meat because consumers will not buy it.

However, the appearance of meat does not necessarily indicate that it is fresh and safe to eat. Color, likewise, does not indicate freshness. In fact, the practice of altering the color of meat can actually hide or hinder the behavior of certain bacteria, etc.

Bad odor upon opening the package is a more accurate sign that the meat may not be fresh or that it may even be bad.

But the bottom line is that no matter what the industry does, food safety in general is a huge concern in America. Also, some meat sold in America is from other countries.

The meatpacking industry claims that there is no safety risk in the use of carbon monoxide to improve the appearance of meet. Some advocate groups disagree.

Seeing this report on the news again tonight got me to thinking about the Islamic obligation to eat halal meat.

I love my halal butcher!

Everything is cut, sliced, and packaged on the spot in his store.

I don't have to worry about the freshness of the meat or chicken in this brother's halal market.

Some Muslims complain that halal meat is more expensive. Other claim there at fatwaas stating Muslims can eat the meat in the U.S. grocery stores because America is a "Christian" country, and Christians are People of the Book.

I think the Quran is clear on this matter.

I am grateful to have one less thing to worry about.

Pardon My "Remodeling"

I finally decided to use the new Blogger Layout feature. So, I am changing the look of my blog! Insha Allah I'll be done real soon. Come back and let me know how you like it.

British Police ID 2 Suspects as Doctors

By DAVID STRINGER, Associated Press Writer

LONDON - "An Iraqi physician and a Palestinian doctor working at British hospitals were identified Monday among those held in the failed car bomb attacks on London and Glasgow, while authorities said the latest suspect had been arrested in another country.

British media reported at least five of the eight people now in custody were doctors, but police would confirm only the two physicians whose names were released ..."

If the above is true, it disturbs me deeply. Not only because these people are Muslims, but also because they are physicians. Doctors. People who are supposed to be concerned with alleviating suffering. Medical professionals who are supposed to focus on saving lives.

Yet these "physicians" are willing to blow people up with car bombs.

A news report said that one of the suspects was being treated in the hospital where he had worked! I cannot imagine the feelings of his colleagues.

Ya Allah!

I Needed To Repack My Suitcase

I wrote this article and it was published at Reading Islam:

http://www.readingislam.com/servlet/Satellite?c=Article_C&cid=1179664522295&pagename=Zone-English-Discover_Islam%2FDIELayout

When I made the decision to become a Muslim, I didn’t tell a soul. It was a decision between me and Allah (swt) alone.

But, I did approach my supervisor at work to feel out whether or not my workplace would be a supportive environment for my new way of life. “Hmm, let’s say” I began one morning after my supervisor and I were finished with a staff meeting. “If I were ever to convert to Islam, would it be a problem for me to wear a scarf here?” I asked. “Hmm, let’s say if you ever did that,” he responded with a twinkle in his eye, “it would be okay with me.” Because he knew my husband, he had an idea what I was considering.

I had been married to a Muslim man for about a year at that time. He never pressured me to become a Muslim, but he gave me silent dawah by his excellent example. One of the things we did as a married couple was to visit other Muslims. We were often invited to the home of one particular family, and I spent many evenings conversing about Islam with the wife of the house.

I said the Shahadah on her garden porch in the summer of 1998. Before I left her home that special afternoon, she gave me my first hijab. I remember it was an al-amira type, the one-piece kind that slips over the head.

The day after I became a Muslim, my husband and I traveled to Puerto Rico. Just 24 hours before, I had been planning a vacation that included sunbathing on the beach in a skimpy bathing suit! Needless to say, I spent part of my first evening as a Muslim repacking my suitcase.

I don’t know what I expected concerning the reaction of others to my hijab. Looking back, I wasn’t worried too much other than potential problems with my job. I was sure that I wanted to be a Muslim. Almost overnight, however, I lost my identity as an “American” in my own country. It was immediately assumed by others that I was from the Middle East or some other Muslim country. At the Philadelphia International Airport, on my way to Puerto Rico, for example, I was frequently stopped by security and asked about my country of origin. Was my hijab changing my national identity as well as my religion? It was clear to me that my life had taken a 180 degree turn overnight.

The Caribbean heat hit me hard as I exited the main terminal of the Luis Munoz Marin International Airport in San Juan wearing my new white cotton hijab. But I was determined to keep it on.

In the following days, I was a bit confused as I walked the streets of nearby Condado. Many of the local people greeted me with an admiring look and a smile. “Dios te bendiga, madre!” (God bless you, mother) they would say as they walked past me. Did they think I was a Catholic nun? I later learned that there is a Christian group in Puerto Rico whose female members wear while veils similar to the hijab.

When our vacation was over, we made our way back to the Luis Munoz Marin International Airport. Again I got a security grilling, but it was more intense than the one I had experienced in Philadelphia because this time I was attempting to enter the United States. My husband was proud of how I handled myself. When we returned home, he told me that he knew I was serious about hijab due to the fact that I wore it in public the entire vacation despite the Puerto Rican heat!

When I returned to work, I was a little anxious about walking through the door of the agency. The first person I saw was my supervisor. He was in the file room when I arrived. He gave me a long smile when he saw me in my hijab. “So – you did it!” he said, shaking his head up and down with approval.

The best reactions I got to my hijab came from my Muslim clients. (Remember: I hadn’t told anyone!) One of them was scheduled to see me the day I returned to work from vacation. When I saw Mahmoud, he was flabbergasted. “Alhamdulillah!” he exclaimed. His eyes glistened with tears that soon overflowed and spilled to his cheeks. “Mabrook! You look so beautiful!” He kept saying it over and over again.

I was a bit apprehensive in the following days, but my friends and acquaintances were supportive. The encouragement they gave me made my transition to wearing hijab very smooth. Sadly, I know that some of my revert Muslim sisters have not had such a positive experience.

There was no internal struggle or conflict for me concerning the wearing of hijab. I had read a lot about Islam, including the issue of hijab, prior to making my decision to become a Muslim. I understood hijab to be part of the “package” so to speak. It was that simple for me.

At that time, I had no spiritual sense of hijab; I was wearing it to comply with Allah’s command in the holy Qur’an. Today I do have a spiritual sense of hijab. My hijab lets the world know that I am a Muslim woman. It symbolizes what my life stands for. I wear it to please Allah (swt), but I also wear it for myself. I have worn hijab since the day I said the Shahadah. I have never taken it off, even after the dreadful days following the events of September 11th.

Mother's Day Mubarak?

People all over America and other places in the world are celebrating Mother's Day.

It seems that this non-Islamic holiday is also creeping into the Muslim world. Not only here in America where Mother's Day originated, but also abroad.

The other day, I received an email from Sound Vision about Mother's Day. It reads, in part, as follows:

"As Mother's Day approaches this weekend, do more than just send flowers or buy gifts for mom. Rekindle your relationship with her, regardless of how she has treated you. If your relationship has been non-existent or distant, commit to doing one thing for the next year than can help you become closer. This can be one extra phone call on a regular basis or inviting her over to your place at least once a month. If you're blessed with a close relationship, find ways to strengthen it. And if your mother has passed, find a way to honor her memory, whether it's donating to her favorite charity every month or simply raising your hands in Dua every Friday asking for God to forgive her and grant her Paradise."

The email goes on to provide various Sound Vision links about mothers, including a link for shopping for Mother's Day gifts.

In Jordan, Mother's Day is observed on the first day of spring. Queen Noor, a Muslim, is the honorary chair of Rediscover Mother's Day. She has written a piece on CNN.com entitled, Let's Reclaim Mother's Day for Peace http://www.cnn.com/2007/WORLD/meast/05/10/commentary.noor/index.html

It is interesting to note how Queen Noor opens her piece:

"In 1982, during a period of dangerous stalemate in the Middle East peace process, I gave a speech at Georgetown University about the critical need for a more engaged and balanced role for the United States in the region.

The newspapers the next day covered my handbag, my rings, and my dress. When asked about the substance of my message, one U. S. Senator said, 'It's a great public relations weapon to have an attractive queen.'"

Well, my sister, what do you expect? Mixed messages?

More mixed messages when a predominant Muslim woman is the honorary chair of such a thing as Rediscover Mother's Day?

Is the condition of our ummah in such dire straights that we need a non-Islamic holiday like Mother's Day to help us with our relationships with our Muslim mothers?

May Allah (swt) help us all if we need such an occasion as Mother's Day to raise our hands in dua to Him to ask for forgiveness and Jennah for our deceased Muslim mothers.

The danger for Muslims in America is that cultural and secular practices have a way of intertwining themselves with Islam. Then people end up not knowing the difference. We have seen this in our own masjids and Muslim communities.

When I first considered becoming a Muslim, I read a LOT about Islam. Once I became a Muslim and interacted with the Muslim community, I was blown away. I soon discovered that many Muslims didn't know the difference between cultural and Islam. It was not uncommon for me to hear, "But Safiyyah, this is how we do it in my country."

Will our children be saying this decades from now? Defending the practice of observing secular holidays by Muslims as "how we do it" in America?

Buying your mother a gift for Mother's Day is practicing this secular holiday. Buying her gifts throughout the year is truly honoring mom!

We have the Quran and Hadith for guidance in how to honor and celebrate our Muslim moms, Alhamdulillah! Muslim need not look toward secular sources for help in this area!