8th Annual Ahmadiyya Peace Conference

Peace Symposium 2011 - Address by Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community

Peace Symposium (8th Annual) held on 26th March 2011 at Baitul Futuh Mosque, London, England.

His Holiness concluded his address by speaking about the persecution faced by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat. He said that in May last year 86 Ahmadi Muslims were brutally martyred whilst offering their Friday prayers. Similarly in February this year 3 Ahmadi Muslims in Indonesia were martyred in the most barbaric manner. His Holiness said that despite such cruelties and injustices the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat never responded with anything other than with peace. He said:

"We have always implemented the teaching of Islam that you should never take the law into your own hands and always keep the best interests of your country in view and never create disorder, because this is a requirement of true love for your country. Wherever in the world Ahmadis reside, no matter which country they originate from, be they Asian, or African, or Arab or European or American, their behaviour is always the same. For the sake of attaining Allah's pleasure they always steer clear of all forms of disorder. And this is the conduct that one day will not only save the world from anarchy, in fact it will be its guarantor for world peace."

The Holy Qur'an, Part 1

The Holy Quran is a compilation of the verbal revelations given to the Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw) over a period of twenty two years. The Holy Quran is the Holy Book or the Scriptures of the Muslims. It lays down for them the law and commandments, codes for their social and moral behaviour, and contains a comprehensive religious philosophy. The language of the Quran is Arabic.

Besides its proper name, the Quran is also known by the following names:al Kitab The Book;al Furqan The Discriminant: al Dhikr The Exposition; al Bayan The Explanation; al Burhan The Argument; al Haqq The Truth; al Tanzil The Revelation; al Hikmat The Wisdom; al Huda The Guide; al Hukm The Judgment; al Mau'izah The Admonition; al Rahmat The Mercy; al-Noor The Light; al-Rooh The Word
Surahs And Verses

The Holy Quran is divided into 114 Surahs or Chapters and each Chapter consists of individual Ayaat or verses. There are in total 6,348 verses in the Holy Quran. The Surahs are of varying lengths, some consisting of a few lines while others run for many pages. Surah al Baqarah (Ch.2 ) is the longest Chapter comprising 287 verses while Surah al Kauthar( Ch. 108) is the shortest with only four verses including the tasmia.

The text of the Holy Quran has remained unchanged over the past 1400 years. The millions of copies of the Quran circulating in the world today are all identical down to a single letter. And this is not strange since God says in the Holy Quran that He Himself will guard this book:

"Surely it is We Who have revealed the Exposition, and surely it is We Who are its guardians" (15:10)

Al Nur (The Light)

Divine attribute of Al Nur (The Light)

Summary of Friday Sermon delivered by Hadhrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad ^at, the Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community December 4 ^th, 2009

Huzur Aqdas began by reciting verse 258 of Surah Al Baqarah and gave a discourse on the Divine attribute of Al Nur (The Light) in his Friday sermon today. The translation of the verse is:

‘Allah is the friend of those who believe: He brings them out of every kind of darkness into light. And those who disbelieve, their friends are the transgressors who bring them out of light into every kind of darkness. These are the inmates of the Fire; therein shall they abide.’ (2:258)

Huzur said according to lexicon Nur is one of the Divine attributes and is that Being through Whose light a physically blind person sees and a person who has gone astray finds guidance from wisdom that is bestowed by Him. It is that Being Who is apparent and through Whom all things are manifested. His Being is apparent in Himself and makes things evident for others.

It is stated in the explanation of part of verse 36 of Surah Al Nur, ‘Allah is the Light of the heavens and the earth…’ that it is God alone Who guides those in the heavens and in the earth. Nur is the light which is capable of being spread and helps in the sighting of things, it is of two kinds: worldly and of the Hereafter.

The worldly Nur is also twofold; one that is perceived through insight and can be found in the light of God. In explaining the meanings lexicon refers to some Quranic verses: ‘…There has come to you indeed from Allah a Light and a clear Book. (5:16) as well as: ‘…We gave him life and made for him a light whereby he walks among men, be like him whose condition is that he is in utter darkness whence he cannot come forth?...’ (6:123).

Reciting verse 36 of Surah Al Nur:

‘Allah is the Light of the heavens and the earth. The similitude of His light is as a lustrous niche, wherein is a lamp. The lamp is in a glass. The glass is as it were a glittering star. It is lit from a blessed tree — an olive — neither of the east nor of the west, whose oil would well-nigh glow forth even though fire touched it not. Light upon light! Allah guides to His light whomsoever He will. And Allah sets forth parables to men, and Allah knows all things full well. (24:36)

Huzur said he had explained this verse in light of the writings of the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) a short while ago but it was with reference to a different subject-matter. He said today he would present a summary of the writings. Huzur said some may think that the light the above verse mentions is limited to the person of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him). Doubtless, the light of God is dominant over everything. The first aspect the verse declares is that because God is the Light of the heavens and the earth, everything gets beneficence from His light, indeed can only get beneficence from it. He dispenses the light as He wills. How is it that God is the Light? It is because it is He Who created the heavens and the earth and He alone gives the light, whether it is physical light or spiritual. As it is stated in the Holy Qur’an: ‘Allah is He Who created the heavens and the earth …’ (14:33).

Huzur said the true Light is God which can be perceived in everything by those with insight. However, one who is devoid of spiritual sight cannot see it. A believer is firm on the belief that the universe that can be sighted as well as the universe that cannot be sighted is created by God. In order to give an understanding of this Light God sends His chosen people who spread the nur, which comes down from the heavens, in the world.

Huzur said verse 24:36 elucidates such nur. The Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) set the most excellent example and highest standard of nur, one which will continue till the Day of Judgement and which was established as a reflection of the Light of God. He spread this nur in his life time and it continues to spread today. The verse 24:36 describes this nur as a niche, an elevated place, which is the breast of the Prophet. Within the niche is a lamp and this lamp is Divine revelation.

The lamp is within a globe of glass and this glass is the heart of the Prophet, which is sparklingly clean and free from any blemish. This glass is as resplendent and illuminating as a star; indeed just as the internal light of the Prophet’s heart most liberally spread externally. This lamp is alight with the blessed olive tree and this tree is a simile for the person of the Prophet, which will be established till the Day of Judgement because it was him alone who was declared as the perfect man and there can be none other like him till the Day of Judgement. The reference in the verse of nur belonging neither to the east nor to the west signifies the teaching of Islam which does not incline to any one side. Neither to Communism nor Socialism nor Capitalism, rather, it is a teaching of moderation which establishes human rights and world peace.

The reference to

‘whose oil would well-nigh glow forth’ signifies that exquisite wisdom of the Prophet and all his lofty morals. Light upon light connotes that when God poured forth His Light, i.e. revelation on the perfect man, it created a peerless nur in the spiritual world.

True nur is only through the Shariah that was revealed to the Holy Prophet (peace and blessing of Allah be on him) and from his blessed model. It is this teaching alone that is the nur that can bring about the beneficence of the Nur of God.

The Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) elucidated it thus:

‘That light of high degree that was bestowed on perfect man was not in angels, was not in stars, was not in the moon, was not in the sun, was not in the oceans and the rivers, was not in rubies or emeralds, or sapphires, or pearls; in short, it was not in any earthly or heavenly object. It was only in perfect man whose highest and loftiest and most perfect example was our lord and master, the Chief of the Prophets, the Chief of all living ones, Muhammad, the chosen one, peace be on him. That light was bestowed on this man and, according to their ranks, upon all those who bore the same colour to some degree.... This dignity was found in its highest and most perfect form in our lord and master and our guide, the immaculate Prophet, the righteous one, testified to by the righteous, Muhammad, the chosen one, peace be on him.’(Ayenae Kamalat-e-Islam, Ruhani Khazain (London, 1984), Vol.5, pp. 160-162).

The lofty station of nur that the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) was granted was from the Light of God and he conveyed it onto his Companions and established excellent morals among them so much so that he likened them to stars. The blessed Companions partook of a measure of God’s Light to such an extent that they attained the honour of [the salutation] of raziAllah unho (may Allah be pleased with them). The Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) has written that the Companions were so absorbed in the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) that his nur transferred onto them through their complete obedience of him and it annihilated all else but God from their hearts. A Hadith relates, ‘my Companions have Allah and Allah alone in their hearts.’

Huzur said God did not cease dispensing this nur, rather the nur that the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) received from God is an ever-continuing fountain of beneficence as the Islamic Shariah will continue till the Day of Judgement. In this age, through his ardent and true love of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) God sent the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) with the nur of spirituality that descends from heavens.

The Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) wrote that he did not know what act of his had attracted Divine bestowment. He said he was only aware of his natural inclination towards God which was borne out of compelling sincerity. He once dreamed that an elderly esteemed person signalled to him to replicate the Sunnah of Prophets of God and keep fasts. The Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) decided to fast without letting everyone know, so he moved to the outwardly room of the house. He also ate in that room and would distribute most of his food among orphans and would eat very little himself. Through the wonders of such fasting, exquisite visions were disclosed to the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) where he had meetings with past Prophets of God and high-ranking saints. Once in full wakefulness he saw the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) and his grandsons, Hadhrat Ali and Hadhrat Fatima (may Allah be pleased with them both). He also experienced Divine lights metaphorically appear in a most beautiful manner. He saw columns of lights in red, green and brilliant white reaching up the heavens, seeing them gave him a pleasure and ecstasy of such a degree that he said he could not articulate it. The Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) explained that some of the light [of the columns] came from his heart and some came from the heavens and together the lights formed the shape of a column. Huzur said this blessing was bestowed on the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) because of his perfect obedience of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessing of Allah be on him).

The Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) also wrote, ‘once [I] had a revelation the meanings of which were that the higher angels are in commotion. That is, the will of God is aroused to revive faith. However, the appointment of the ‘one who will bestow life to the dead’ revivalist has not yet been revealed to the higher angels. That is the reason why there is conflict. At that moment I saw in dream that people are looking around for a revivalist and a person comes in front of this humble person and signals to him that this is the man who loves the Prophet of God and the meanings of these words were that the highest condition of this office is love of Prophet and that is certainly verified in this person.’

Huzur said after the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) the reflection of God’s Light was the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) and this was in complete subordination of his master. The spiritual knowledge and cognisance of the revelations that was sent to the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) were disclosed to the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) so that he could tell the world. Indeed, he did not desire renown, but when God’s Light fell on him, the renown followed suit so that he could spread the message in the world. God revealed to him, ‘You have proceeded from Him and He has chosen you out of the whole world. You are the light of the world. You are God's dignity and He will not forsake you…O Ye people, the light of God has come to you, so do not reject it.’ (Tadhkirah 2007 edition, pp. 379-280).

Huzur said not only God filled the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) with the nur that was first sent down 1,400 years ago, He also granted him the station to spread this nur. The Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) wrote that no one knew him and God compelled him out of his solitude and told him that He would bestow honour and renown to him all over the world. It is the way of God that when He adorns someone with nur, He manifests it to the world. When the worldly light has the capacity to spread, how can the light of God stay hidden?

If one connects with the special people of God He illuminates one’s heart even if one’s ‘niche’ is small and one’s ‘glass globe’ is small. Yet one who is connected will be able to further spread the nur. When the true light of God reaches believers and blesses them, it invariably goes on to bless others. In order to maximise our chances to partake of this blessing we should try and adopt the blessed model of the beloved of God in complete obedience.

Indeed God declared it thus: ‘Say, ‘If you love Allah, follow me: then will Allah love you…’ (3:32). It was such love that the Companions had for the Holy Prophet (peace and blessing of Allah be on him) that also illumined them and it was the same love that the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) had for the Prophet in this age which gave him the honour of spreading the light in the world. If one claims to love God and the Prophet then it is essential for them to follow the Promised Messiah for this is the commandment of God and His Prophet. It is because of this connection that our Community is linked to Khilafat and is being blessed with the nur of which the greatest measure was given to the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) and in this age his ardent devotee and servant revived it.

The peace of this world is also associated with the Promised Messiah who fulfilled the statement [of the Prophet] that he would call the world to love, affection and peace, will establish the dues of God and will illuminate the world with God’s light and will be a source of the peace of the world. It was predicted that in his age there would be an end to wars. In light of this, the eternal succession of Khilafat is going to going to carry it onwards. Hadhrat Musleh Maud (may Allah be pleased with him) said that three aspects are required to disperse nur: Divinity, Prophethood and Khilafat and as long as believers keep faith and do good works the progression of this nur will continue.

May God so enable us that we continue to be blessed with this nur and are never deprived of it. If the Muslims, our brothers, understood this reality the others would not dare to create the furore that they time and again raise against Islam. There is strength in unity and for this the Promised Messiah was sent. Recently uproar has been raised in Switzerland against minarets. Their churches also have spires, what harm do minarets bring? In any case, uproar has been raised; it is part of the anti-Islamic stance and appears to be a substantial conspiracy, further demands will be made.

May God, with His grace, protect us from all evil. We should pray that God makes each conspiracy of the enemies of Islam fail and be unsuccessful.

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Holy Qur'an is The Word of God

Ramadhan Mubarak 2009

Excellence of fasting during Ramadan

Summary of Friday Sermon delivered by the Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community

September 14^th, 2007

Huzur delivered his Friday Sermon from Bait ul Futuh, Morden, England and gave a discourse on the excellence of fasting during Ramadan.


Citing verse 184 of Surah Al Baqarah (2:184) Huzur said that with the grace of Allah we are once again enabled to experience the most excellent arrangement for spiritual development, that is, fasting for the few days of Ramadan.


Each Ahmadi should make their best endeavours to develop in taqwa (righteousness), to seek Divine nearness, attain acceptance to one’s prayer, and develop in religious, moral and spiritual ways.


Remarking on the significance of the commandment to fast Huzur said it was also made obligatory on the followers of the earlier prophets of God for the purification of soul and among them only those became the recipient of blessings who abided by the commandment without any protest, who put the teaching in practice and excelled in taqwa. However, when they rejected the teachings, they lost their worldly glory as well as their standards of spirituality plummeted. Huzur said indeed when Allah enjoins the followers of prophets of God to adopt taqwa, He declares that it would lead them to the blessings of this world and the Hereafter, as it is stated in verse 47 of Surah Al Rahman (55:47). Huzur said it is vital for each Ahmadi to recognise the lofty station of God in order to develop in taqwa and to be the recipient of His blessings and this, he added, will come to pass when His commandments are followed with sincerity of purpose. One of these commandments is to fast.


We are fortunate that we are the adherents of the perfect Book, are the adherents of the Shariah which is promised to continue till the end, are the adherents of the last law-bearing Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) who was granted excellence over all the other prophets by being given the title of Khatam un Nabiyyeen (Seal of all the prophets). He brought us the message of Qur’an to enable us to stay firm on taqwa, a message that is still fresh today and shall always remain so. Huzur asked what do the commandments of this last law-bearing Book expect of us? Explaining, he said they expect us to endeavour for the attainment of the blessing that this Book mentions, to assume the undertaking for which God and His Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) have shown us the way.


Citing verse 70 of Surah Al Ankabut (29:70) Huzur said it is indeed God’s promise that He guides those to Him who come towards Him with absolute sincerity, He runs to those who at least walk towards Him. A great source to attain nearness to God is fasting. A Hadith relates that the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) said that Allah puts a distance of more than 70 years (Arabic idiom meaning a great deal) between the face of a person who fasts in the way of Allah seeking His blessings and fire. Huzur said indeed it is vital to fast in the quest of Allah’s grace and if the attainment of His pleasure is the sole objective, He not only saves one from the fire but also grants the paradise of His pleasure, in this world and the Hereafter.


The Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) said that one who makes a solemn endeavour to seek Allah never fails. He said that if we can feel compassion for a student who works hard for school exams how could God not have mercy and compassion to allow one who endeavours to seek him to come near Him? Certainly not.


Recounting a Hadith e Qudsi Huzur said Allah declares that each act of man is for himself, apart for fasting. Fasting is for Allah and Allah alone is its reward. Another Hadith reiterates this point that fasting is done for Allah and only Allah knows the real reward of a person who fasts.


Huzur explained that just as Allah’s attributes are countless so is the extent of His reward, however, He has set some limitations for the attainment of His reward. For example during fasting one is not required to merely starve oneself, rather one has to make an endeavour to shun all sorts of worldly and carnal desires, only then it may be deemed that fasting is for Allah alone. Similarly the avoidance from the ills is not to be temporary and brief, rather it has to be a permanent effort.


Indeed Allah knows what is in one’s heart, is aware of the intention behind each deed, has knowledge of what is apparent and what is hidden, if a person fasts with Allah’s attributes in mind, that fasting would be rewarded.


Huzur further said that when a person who is fasting responds to an abuse by saying that as they are fasting they will not respond in kind, it does not mean that after breaking the fast they are at liberty to retaliate, not at all. Huzur said fasting is a training process during which one is trained to eschew bad habits for good, that is the reason why a Hadith relates that when a person who fast sincerely meets his Maker he will be happy. It is not just thirty days’ effort that will give him happiness, rather he will be happy because he would have had an opportunity to make an endeavour to avoid bad habits and that person would thus greet each Ramadan of his life until he attains the station where he will be the recipient of Allah’s pleasure.


Elucidating a Hadith that terms fasting as a shield, Huzur said the important thing is to be able to utilise this ‘shield’ to protect oneself from the attacks of the Satan, the most dangerous of all enemies. A believer can be safe by means of this ‘shield’ through worship of God and by staying firm on His commandments.


Huzur said the teaching of the earlier prophets was temporary, it was for a temporary period of time. With the teaching diminished its freshness and taqwa. The teaching of the Holy Qur’an is eternal. Worldly desires crept into the fasting of other religions. We need to constantly make endeavours to keep the standards of our taqwa high. Each one of us should try to the best of his/her ability or capacity to attain the lofty standards. By calling us Khair e Ummah (best among the Ummah) Allah has shown us all the ways and we can only justifiably called Khair e Ummah when we can attain these standards. Huzur said the acts that are done to seek the pleasure of Allah are indeed what taqwa is all about.


Huzur prayed that may Allah enable us to make solemn endeavour to attain taqwa. The Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) said that fasting is about forsaking one kind of nourishment (food) to seek the other kind of nourishment which is for the soul. Allah opens up ways of guidance and spiritual discernment for those who seek Him with truthfulness of heart.


May Allah enable us that we fast while making the attainment of His pleasure our objective, may we attain spiritual discernment which becomes a lasting part of our lives and which enhances us in taqwa each moment.

Atfal-ul-Ahmadiyya visit Zion

In 1938, Hazrat Musleh Mau'ood, Khalifatul Masih II created the organization Khuddam al-Ahmadiyya for youth. For young boys Atfal al-Ahmdiyya, and for young girls Nasirat al-Ahmadiyya. For those over forty years of age the organization of Ansar-Allah was established in 1940. These organizations played a vital role in the moral and educational training of the Jamaat; producing a cadre of volunteers who have served and are still serving the Community in a remarkable manner.

During an Atfal Rally in Milwaukee, August, 2009, one day was dedicated to an historic visit to Zion. The Atfal were treated to an outdoor cookout with B-Que hotdogs and burgers, courtesy of the Zion Jama'at. The made a visit to the historic home of Zion's founder, Dr. John Alexander Dowie. His home is now a museum maintained by donations to the Zion Historical Society.

After spending some quality learning time at the museum, the energetic young Atfal descended on a recreational field for basketball, football, soccer and a bumper game for the little guys. It was a great day in Zion.

I’m done with TV.

News Item from the New York Times:
If you wake up tomorrow morning and all your TV channels are gone, I probably know why. Saturday, June 13, is the first day that analog broadcast television is officially history, except for low-power stations. (Some stations have already converted, a few more are doing it Friday.) From now on, all over-the-air TV broadcasts — the channels you watch using an antenna — are sent out digitally. If this is all news to you, and you haven’t any idea what to do next, read on: Why Can’t I See Anything? If you can’t see any TV channels, the most likely reason is that you have been watching TV using an analog set coupled to an antenna. With the nationwide switch to digital broadcasting, you now have several options: 1) buy a digital converter box; 2) buy a digital-ready TV; 3) subscribe to cable or satellite TV and keep using your old set; 4) stop watching television.

I’m done with TV. This Digital High Definition business is the last straw for me. It is just another one of those things that clutter my already cluttered life. I’m tired of passwords, twitter, MySpace, Facebook, glitter and commercials that bring scantily clad women and men into my house.

So, it’s over. For entertainment, I’m going to use my Jadoo to connect me to the world. Jadoo is a cool little device that gives me selected internet programs like Muslim Television Ahmadiyya (MTA), Al-Jazeera (I’m listening to David Frost analyze and question some big shot world leader right now), BBC and some other stations that don’t mean a thing to me. My life has to become simple, so Digital TV in America doesn’t enhance my life.


Besides, we now have Hulu to provide television programs, contemporary and old school stuff like “Sanford and Son.” The best TV in America came at a time when folks didn’t jump in bed with women and men and children. In addition, I’m going to have fun exploring blog sites and good YouTube stuff. These days I’m very happy serving Allah through my responsibilities and duties as a member of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, USA.


In addition, my job-related duty as a Chaplain for Kenosha County Jail in Wisconsin doesn’t leave me much external frivolous time to be mesmerized by TV programs. This year, like any addict kicking the habit, I’m moving away from the “vast wasteland,” an apt description of TV land, gleaned from a famous speech by former Federal Communications Commission Chairman Newton N. Minow to national broadcasters, in 1961.


Now, don’t get me wrong, I’m not venting in a self-righteous manner to pass judgment on the many fans of television. What would many families do without television? The TV is a primary point of focus in the contemporary family. Today’s dysfunctional family hovers around television as it influences our lives .


The longest running program on television today is a cartoon sitcom – The Simpsons. It is best described as the satiric adventures of a working class family in the misfit city of Springfield. Without a doubt, the Simpsons have been a favorite of mine on the “boob tube.” It is the religious commentary that is interesting, edgy and provocative.


Here’s a Wikipedia description: “Much of the humor satirizes aspects of Christianity. However, the series is not necessarily anti-religious, as some episodes (such as Bart Sells His Soul and Alone Again, Natura-Diddily) are actually quite spiritual (or at least philosophical) in nature and portray the importance of some spirituality in life. Most episodes call for a more sensible, tolerant and less fanatical, religious devotion. For example, the episode The Monkey Suit depicts Ned Flanders' campaign against evolution. This campaign is opposed by Lisa Simpson, who eventually explains that she respects his belief in creationism.” We will continue to watch the Simpsons on Hulu or we can rent Simpson seasonal DVDs as a subscriber to Netflix. With a little creativity, I won’t miss an episode. So, my friends…I’m done. There are just too many better ways to use my time during the day.

Ahmadiyya Muslim Community: 3ON3 B-ball Tourney

In Zion, Illinois, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, plays host to a community-wide basketball tournament for children and young adults. The Three on Three Basketball Tournament is a summer treat in the community. The tournament attracts neighborhood kids and participants from three surrounding cities. Members of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community are joined by parents and neighborhood folks as referees as the all-day tournament is held in a safe environment.

The rules are simple: No fighting and No cussing. At the end of the day, the participants walk away with special "Love For All. Hatred For None" T-shirts and a bunch of trophies that are presented by age and category.

If you have a good game and want to play some ball, join us this summer by calling 847.746.5585.

I like these brothers....

Thunder

For the world to see. I once played the violin, but never in my wildest dreams did I ever imagine the violin being used like this...they are simply: "Nuttin But Strings."

I watched them first on "America's Got Talent" in 2008. It was then that I understood the real magic of the violin. These two brothers (real brothers) started to get attention in the subways of New York.

It is only Allah Almighty who gives these gifts to the downtrodden. AllahuAkbar!

Peace & Enjoy....Hasan

Divine attribute of Al Wasi (the Bountiful, the All-Embracing)

Summary of Friday Sermon

Delivered by Hadhrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad ^at, the Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community

May 8 ^th, 2009

Today Huzur delivered his Friday Sermon on the Divine attribute of Al Wasi (the Bountiful, the All-Embracing). Huzur explained that ‘Wasi’ is that Being Whose provision and Whose mercy encompasses all creation. Whose self-sufficiency overrides everything, a Being that bestows limitlessly, Who encompasses everything. Huzur said all these references can be found in the Holy Qur’an.

In verse 269 of Surah Al Baqarah Allah states: ‘Satan threatens you with poverty and enjoins upon you what is foul, whereas Allah promises you forgiveness from Himself and bounty. And Allah is Bountiful, All-Knowing.’ (2:269) Huzur explained that the verse cites two factors that Satan employs to drive God’s servants away from Him; fear of poverty and foulness. Fear of poverty is of many kinds; as Satan had said to God that he would sit and waylay God’s people on every path, indeed, he left no stone unturned. His waylaying was not with his own power but due to the fact that God permitted him. God made it clear to His people that Satan would entice in ways that would appear good but the consequences of these would be terrible. Allah states in the Qur’an: ‘…And Satan desires to lead them far astray’ [Surah Al Nisa (4:61)] as well as ‘…Satan is to you an open foe…’ [Surah Al A’raf - (6:23)]. Referring to the above verse Huzur said its reference is not limited to Adam and Eve but is a warning to all men and women that Satan is your audacious enemy therefore be heedful of his temptations. The Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) said that the events stated in the Holy Qur’an are not mere accounts of old, rather these are also prophecies for the times to come, therefore believers should be mindful.

Huzur said Satan alters his ways with changing times. Each new invention that is beneficial also carries the caution that Satan also uses it. In the Surah Al Baqarah verse God states that Satan intimidates you with fear of poverty. The Arabic word in the verse ‘faqara’ denotes poverty as well as the breaking of the vertebrae. This signifies that Satan threatens that sacrifices in the name of God would, as if, render one unable to support oneself and would leave one behind in the world. Satan intimidates against sacrifices in many ways; strays one from worship of God and instead carry out worldly businesses, puts fear of monetary loss and poverty in hearts so one does not make time for causes of God and spends all one’s time in making money. Huzur said however, God’s servants are not intimidated by Satan. Huzur said he read an article in Al Fazl (Urdu newspaper) which cited that a person stood buying meat at butchers in Rabwah when the local finance secretary of the area passed by on a bicycle. The secretary stopped to remind that person that he had some balance to pay on his chanda (financial contribution). The person asked how much the balance was. When told, he paid it there and then and took a receipt. However, he returned the meat he had bought at the butchers and said his family would have a simple meal that day. Huzur said such are the people who are not tempted by Satan and it is not just one person, there are hundreds of such people in our Community who do not simply miss out on meat rather they even go hungry but make sacrifices.

Huzur said there are also numerous instances of sacrifice of life in our Community; in particular the Ahmadis of Pakistan are faced with death at any moment simply for being Ahmadis and for living where they live. The supreme sacrifices of life of Sahibzada Abdul Latif shaheed and Maulwi Abdul Rahman shaheed illustrated that they did not withhold sacrificing their lives for a noble cause and for the pleasure of God. Huzur said there are dozens of other incidents where Ahmadis gladly offered their lives, staying firm on their belief and resoluteness and not merely as a consequence of a sudden attack.

Huzur said in this day and age the economy is also referred to as ‘backbone’ thus Satan threatens those who give about the financial future of their children but God’s servant continue to give. The instance of sacrifice of time is one with which every Ahmadi who is associated with the Community is familiar for they give some time or the other to the Community even if it is attending meetings and gatherings. There is also a great majority who sacrifice their time and come to the Friday Prayers and pay no attention to Satanic temptations – then there are those who do not come to the Friday Prayers or even Eid Prayers. There is a significant number of Ahmadis who do not pay attention to Salat and instead remain busy in their business dealings.

Other than threatening with poverty Satan also tempts man to spend money at matters that are foul, at worldly amusements and indecencies such as gambling and consumption of alcohol. He does this in a manner that man does not realise he is doing something wrong. Allah states in the Qur’an: ‘…And follow not the footsteps of Satan…’ [Surah Al An’am – (6:143)]. Huzur said it is utter ignorance to even imagine that there is any good in following Satan. If a worldly person was asked about his concept of Satan he would say ‘may God protect from him’, however, in following Satan such a person would be completely unaware of what he is doing. In leading such people astray Satan fulfils his original claim that he will lead majority of people away from God. Huzur said the way to come to God is to repent and turn to Him. Indeed, He forgives and enables one to do good in future. Huzur said through the reference of the word ‘ya’eedokum’ in the Surah Al Baqarah verse God has assured forgiveness. On the Day of Judgement Satan is going to deny everything but God promises that He will facilitate forgiveness. That He will bestow in this world and will also forgive in the Hereafter. While indulging in foul matters leads to troubles, physical ailments and many other losses, the believers are promised greater blessings. God states that He would open doors of His grace and believers will develop in spirituality. It is the promise of God, Who is Bountiful and All-Embracing and Who has ceaseless treasures of blessings.

Every Ahmadi who makes financial sacrifice knows that God blesses each giving in an astonishing manner. The families of those who sacrifice their lives are witness to the fact that their sacrifices are a source of immense blessing for the families. These are the experiences that the Bountiful, All-Embracing God grants those who give and who sacrifice.

God’s further favour and grace on His servants is thus that not only does He grant forgiveness upon sincere repentance, good works and sacrifices rather He employs angels to seek forgiveness for His servants. It is stated in the Qur’an: ‘Those who bear the Throne, and those who are around it, glorify their Lord with His praise, and believe in Him and ask forgiveness for those who believe, saying: ‘Our Lord, Thou dost comprehend all things in Thy mercy and knowledge. So forgive those who repent and follow Thy way; and protect them from the punishment of Hell.’ [Surah Al Mu’min – (40:8)] Huzur said here ‘bearing of the Throne’ signifies angels as explained in Surah Al Haqqah (69:18) or it means those attributes of God on which these angels have been ordained, Divine attributes which are described in Surah Al Fatihah, i.e. Rabb (Lord) Rahman (Most Gracious) Raheem (Ever Merciful) and Malik e Yaumideen (Master of the Day of Judgement). These are the attributes which come into man’s use in this world and are the fundamental Divine attributes. Those who believe and then repent, turn to God, do good works, it is for these that God’s angels, in particular those angels who are commissioned to facilitate these qualities on mankind and each angel who is assigned the respective attribute, prays to God with reference to that attribute on behalf of the believers. Similarly, angels subordinate to these [commissioned] angels also seek forgiveness from God for people.

Huzur said man is full of mistakes and failings and when he stumbles inadvertently, these angels plead God with reference to His mercy and His boundless knowledge to forgive His servant. They refer to God’s mercy first to seek forgiveness because pardon only comes about with His mercy and this is why they seek His extensive mercy for this. They acknowledge God’s all-embracing knowledge and supplicate that if it is in God’s knowledge that these people would stumble in future may God’s overriding mercy make them do good works instead, and makes these good works eternal for them – the angels acknowledge that the people will only be so enabled if God’s mercy is forthcoming. This is the Most Gracious, the Great Forgiver, Most Merciful God Who employs all resources to forgive people and to keep them firm on piety.

God states that He rewards sacrifice seven hundred-fold, in fact it can even exceed this because God is the Bountiful and all-Embracing and His rewards know no bounds. Yet man is ungrateful and leaves the Ever Merciful God and is tempted by Satan towards transitory pleasures.

Huzur cited verse 157 of Surah Al A’raf (7:157) which reads: ‘And ordain for us good in this world, as well as in the next; we have turned to You seeking forgiveness. God replied, ‘I will inflict My punishment on whom I will; but My mercy encompasses all things; so I will ordain it for those who act righteously, and pay the Zakat and those who believe in Our Signs – ‘ and explained that as the Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) said the events of the Prophets described in the Qur’an are also prophecies for the future therefore when acceptance of prayers and God’s mercy is cited it is applicable today as it was before, of course on the condition that man abides by God’s commandments. God’s mercy surpasses everything but man has been given responsibility to adopt taqwa (righteousness) to worship God, to love God more than anything else, to make every sacrifice needed to pay the dues of Allah and the dues of mankind, to believe in God’s Signs. Huzur said the advent of God’s eminent and holy people is also one of His Signs. In this age the true and ardent devotee of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) was followed by many Signs; for instance the solar and lunar eclipses, earthquakes, the plague and many modern-day inventions. Huzur said when a claimant cites something and it comes to pass then it is a special Sign.

God has made His mercy supersede everything else therefore man should be ever hopeful of forgiveness and should endeavour to follow God’s commandments. In particular believers should never be of the mind-set that they will be forgiven no matter what. The Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) said that God has put His laws in place and also punishes those who exceeds the limits. God has not stated that His mercy surpasses everything for the sinners, rather this has been stated with reference to those who abide by taqwa. It is the task of a believer to continue to seek this mercy and then be hopeful of God’s all-embracing mercy. May Allah enable us all to do so.

---

Printed from: http://www.alislam.org/archives/friday/FSS20090508-EN.html

Islamophobia: A Community Awareness Event

'Love for all, hatred for none'

Zion's Islam community, FBI speak out on faith, hate crime

April 20, 2009

BY BETH KRAMER ekramer@scn1.com

WAUKEGAN -- You may have heard that Muslims believe in converting others by force. Those who serve as suicide bombers get a special place in heaven. Muslims wage a jihad against all non-Muslims.

These are among the popular misconceptions about Muslims. The truth about the religion was spelled out Saturday at "Islamophobia: Everything You Wanted to Know About Islam But Were Afraid to Ask," along with an FBI presentation on hate crimes.

» Click to enlarge image

AJ Ijaz of Grayslake (left) speaks with FBI agent Dave Young shortly before the program "Islamophobia: Everything You Wanted to Know About Islam But Were Afraid to Ask." At far right is Naser Shams, program moderator.

"We don't believe in any form of terrorism. Jihad is misunderstood," said Imam Mubasher Ahmad, Midwest region missionary for the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community (AMC). "Every day we hear the news -- a Muslim became a human bomb."

Suicide is an unforgivable sin, and killing an innocent person is likened to killing the whole of humanity in the Quran, Ahmad said.

"Islam is a peaceful religion," said Zahir Ahmed of AMC's national headquarters in Washington, D.C., to participate in the program at Park Place Senior Center, 412 S. Lewis Ave.

The Quran is specific in how and when a person is allowed to use violence, he explained.

"The Quran is very limited and strict on how to fight," he said.

If a person is being attacked, then he or she should be allowed to defend him or her self, Zahir said. Being the transgressor, such as a suicide bomber, is prohibited.

"No Muslims are found in acts of terrorism. Therefore, those who act inconsistently with the teachings of the Quran are not Muslims," Zahir said.

Fighting against governments and starting religious wars is rebellion, not jihad, Zahir said. True jihads are reforming against evil, like serving mankind, he said.

"Love for all, hatred for none" is the main tenet of AMC. Its message reflects the Islamic message of peace, universal brotherhood and submission to the will of Allah (God). It is practiced in 190 countries worldwide and has more than 60 communities in the United States, including one in Zion, which sponsored Islamophobia.

AJ Ijaz of Grayslake, a member of the Zion AMC, said he was especially interested in hearing the hate crime presentation.

"I think the fact there is a focus (on hate crimes) is good," Ijaz said.

FBI agent Dave Young said that hate crimes could be summed up with one word, ignorance. A hate crime is a crime against a person or property motivated by bias against, race, religion, ethnicity, national origin, disabilities or sexual orientation, Young said.

"Hate crimes generally are traditional crimes, (like) assault, battery, rape, homicide and vandalism," Young said.

Race continues to be the No. 1 reason for hate crimes, with the "African-American community" as the No. 1 target, he said.

Regarding religious hate crimes, the Jewish community is the No. 1 target, he said.

Young would not say that hate crimes against Muslims are uncommon in the Chicago area.

"Few people truly hate. (Hatred) is almost to the exclusion of all else," Young said.

This is America: Muslims lack sensitivity...

American Muslims lack cultural sensitivity, awareness and respect for non-Muslims. It is a common scene in Muslim mosques. A non-Muslim walks in and is treated so badly, he or she makes quick judgments that are passed along to friends, who have never met or attended Muslim functions.

The above video exposes a tad of the problem. Throughout America, Muslim immigrants are of the opinion that they don't have to explain anything about Islam to their friends. Many Muslim immigrants begin to talk in their native languages around non-Muslim guests. It is rude behavior and very damaging in an effort to create a better understanding of Islam.

Prayer is the answer, period

Members of faith community dedicate CTCA chapel

April 16, 2009

BY BETH KRAMER ekramer@scn1.com

ZION -- Muslim, Roman Catholic and Christian religious officials came together to dedicate the newly renovated chapel at Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA) in Zion Wednesday morning.

“This space holds a special spot in our hearts,” said Anne Meisner, CTCA president and CEO. "This is a dream come true for us. We're all pleased and excited with the result."

» Click to enlarge image

Ahmadiyya Muslim Hasan Hakeem of Waukegan reads from the Holy Quran during the dedication of the Mary Brown Stephenson All Faiths Chapel at Cancer Treatment Centers of America at Midwest Regional Medical Center in Zion.
(Thomas Delany, Jr./News-Sun)

» Click to enlarge image

Registered nurse Julie Campbell of Beach Park holds up her "living stone."

» Click to enlarge image

Living stones for the tranquility fountain were given out at the dedication of the the Mary Brown Stephenson All Faiths Chapel.

RELATED STORIES

• Photos: Faith healing

The chapel is three times larger than the former chapel, said the Rev. Percy McCray, CTCA director of pastoral care. The Mary Brown Stephenson All Faiths Chapel is designed as a non-denominational space and is decorated with a tree of life theme. A water feature and a large stained glass window serve as the two focal points.

Anthony Fossland, president of Midwestern Regional Medical Center board of trustees, donated the stained glass windows to commemorate his three deceased wives, Laura, June and Beulah.

"I greatly appreciate the hospital," the Rev. Percy McCray read in a statement on Fossland's behalf. "God has indeed richly blessed me in my life." McCray is director of pastoral care at CTCA.

The dedication also included a blessing from different religious officials.

"My blessing for this new chapel is that God brings healing upon the people here," said Robert Ochsner, deacon for Our Lady of Humility Catholic Church in Beach Park.

"All of Lake County, if not the world, can be proud of what was started here," said Chaplain Hasan Hakeem, president of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in Zion.

Hakeem shared the Muslim perspective on faith and medicine at a discussion prior to the dedication ceremony.

"We say the greatest weapon you have is prayer. You should always believe Allah (God) is a healer, but you should also go to your doctor," Hakeem said.

Ochsner echoed Hakeem's point about the power of prayer.

"Prayer is the answer, period," Ochsner said.

McCray said he didn't think there was as much of a struggle between faith and medicine as people think. He did say that people with faith tend to look for more extreme health measures.

Faith does affect the way some patients seek cancer treatments.

"I have had patients where their faith is just blinding them to the extent that unless God tells them to be treated, they won't get treated at all. That is more challenging to convince them. I tell them 'You are here because God sent you,'" said Dr. Rakhashanda Neelam, CTCA medical oncologist.

One of her patients, Lois Kearney, is a Jehovah's Witness, which does not permit her to accept blood transfusions. Kearney, a lifelong Jehovah's Witness, cited Acts 15:28, which says "you are to abstain ... from blood," according to the New International Version.

When she underwent her mastectomy, Kearney said her doctors worked with her.

"If I would have needed blood from my surgery, they told me they would comply with my wishes, which was very reassuring," Kearney said.

This particular faith restriction is among the "perceived contradictions to medical instructions" that pastoral care workers help smooth over, McCray said.

"We are obligated to honor and respect people's religious beliefs. We help moderate and help doctors understand (when) there are faith restrictions," McCray said.

The views expressed in these blog posts are those of the author and not of the Sun-Times News Group.

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A Glimmer of Hope or...are we spinning out of control?

Recently, I posted a press release (it can be read on my blog) that was simple and straightforward regarding Islamophobia. It was an invitation to a event held April 18, 2009, hosted by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, Zion, Illinois. USA

The Daily Herald, a very respected and well read newspaper, published the press release in its entirety. We thank the publishers for including it as a Letter to the Editor. After online publication, the letter was besieged by bloggers, who certainly are entitled to their views, who ripped Islam, Muslims. They created a string of comments that were curious to me. I applaud the "voices of reason" in the community that responded to the Islamophobic comments with incredible wisdom and patience.

Here are some excerpts taken from almost 180 comments:

posted by paper reader k on Mon Apr 13, 2009 8:47 AM

My dear Hasan,

Perhaps I'll attend your meeting Saturday. When I arrive I'll be interested in seeing copies of your groups condemnation of all muslim terrorist attacks, as well as those condemning Hamas, Hezballah, and al Qiada, and your statement recognizing the right of Israel to exist.

You do have such public declarations, don't you? Or are you simply a lot of hot air like the rest of the closet islamo-fascist organizations in this country, like CAIR?

Until you publicly declare your allegiance to US, you are the enemy.

But again, it is the bad apples that get all the attention. Here too, if Hasan Hakeem and the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community made a call to Jihad it too would be front page news- but their attempt to reach out to the community is stuck in the Letters section.

My feeling is that it is bridges- not walls- that will get us over troubled water and from one place to the next. I wish I could make it Saturday- if for no other reason than to say thanks.

Hakuna Matata & Namaste!

I agree that there are radicals out there in all walks, but we need to see that our media is conditioned to only tell us what is wrong- and not what is right. Over time this can lead us to an almost McCarthyism like state that we see here in several posters.

If the Queen of Jordan suggested Jihad, it would be front page news- But her months and months of work to breakdown stereotypes barely gets her a youTube award.

posted by Veteran American on Mon Apr 13, 2009 6:08 AM

I'll listen when they step forward and take back their religion from the radicals. Until then you are the enemy

posted by Lou Skolnick on Mon Apr 13, 2009 7:01 AM

Hasan Hakeem, President, Ahmadiyya Muslim Community: Muslim voices who say Islam means peace have been drowned out a long time ago by radical clerics who support jihad and promote hatred in the name of Islam.

Lou: Apparently, Hasan does not know "salaam" means peace -- Islam means submission.

Since Hasan has his words confused, perhaps he misunderstand what those "radical clerics who support jihad" are saying. Perhaps, those "radical clerics who support jihad" merely want you to submit to Allah's will and obey Sharia in the way Allah demands.

posted by Donnieyo on Mon Apr 13, 2009 7:02 AM

Hasan, if you want peace, then YOU as a moderate Muslim must fight for justice. Denounce unequivocally the violent acts of the extremists of your religion. Then you will end Islamophobia and win respect.

I think I'd rather take Arabic lessons from a guy named Hakeem than a guy named Skolnick. But Lou's mileage differs, as always.

posted by Evie2 on Mon Apr 13, 2009 10:37 AM

It's interesting how our president, with his willing accomplices in the press, allow Muslims to characterize America as having a damaged image around the world while Islamo-cavemen blow up women and children, terrorize the seas and plot the destruction of the modern world.

Gimme a break! If anything we should be acting more aggressively to exterminate the blight of Islam on the world.

posted by CCL on Mon Apr 13, 2009 10:57 AM

Just because some Muslims are terrorists doesn't mean they all are. We have Christian terrorists also who think nothing of battering Gays because of the Bible.

Also ever heard of the Ku Klux Klan - they still exist you know and believe the Bible is their guide.

The Southern Poverty Law Center also tracks other American terrorists in this country and there are many of them - mostly nazi-like militia groups.

No doubt there are plenty of bad guys out there. The level of violence and associated deaths put forth by Islamic extremists every single day throughout the world is, however, unmatched.

Although there is no denying the existence of non-Muslim terrorist groups, there is also no denying the Muslim terrorists are the most active and have by far perpetrated the most death.

posted by sluggo on Mon Apr 13, 2009 12:48 PM

Mike the Fledgling Lawyer asked "Who said: Not all Muslims are terrorists, but almost all terrorists are Muslim."

Don't know, but whoever it was is an idiot.

posted by Victoria77 on Mon Apr 13, 2009 6:10 PM

HASAN: I would like to know your view on Jerusalem being the rightful capital of the Israelites.

The fact that Arabs and Jews are half-brothers stemming from Abraham, the hatred could not be more clear. You view Ishmael as Abraham's eldest son, whereas Jews and Christians view Isaac as Abraham's true heir.

As it says in Genesis 16:12 of Ishmael, although his lineage will be blessed and the people multipled exceedingly, it specifically says this:

He will be a wild donkey of a man; his hand will be against everyone and everyone's hand against him, and he will live in hostility toward all his brothers."

It amazes me that the above Biblical verse could not have been more prophetic and how Muslims kill their own without any remorse.

The Quran teaches that if you do not convert to Islam no matter what your religious beliefs, or no religious belief at all, you need to be killed. This is more pervasive today than ever before.

Having people come and talk about so-called "peace" is a smoke screen. Once Arabs stop viewing Israel as a rotting corpse and hate the United States for unwavering support of Israel, things can never be solved.

posted by Poindexter on Mon Apr 13, 2009 6:32 PM

posted by Victoria77 on Mon Apr 13, 2009 6:10 PM

The Quran teaches that if you do not convert to Islam no matter what your religious beliefs, or no religious belief at all, you need to be killed.

===

So you're a scholar of the Qur'an now? Could you please quote chapter and verse... Excuse me, could you please cite for me the sura and ayat where this decree from Allah may be found?

posted by Pumbaa on Mon Apr 13, 2009 8:57 PM

Victoria- the vile stuff you think is Islam is not Islam but your Islamaphobia.

Seriously the meeting Hasan Hakeem and the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community are putting on is ideal for Islamaphobics like you.

posted by Jickles on Mon Apr 13, 2009 9:26 PM

These responses alone prove Islamaphobia is alive and well.

I am curious how many people who posted know any Muslims? And I do not mean see some working at the Amoco station or drive by some while driving down Devon ave. in Rogers Park, but actually know and spend time with them? I am just curious...

posted by LetFreedomRing on Mon Apr 13, 2009 9:58 PM

"True" Islam cannot co-exist with other religions. They seek to overtake, overwhelm, overrun everyone else. The push others to 'tolerate' them, which really means they use any force necessary to impose their religion, laws, customs, traditions, upon everyone else. Look to the spread of Sharia here in America. The 'true' islamists won't be happy until all our laws are replaced with Islamic Sharia law and our courts are all run by Muslims.

This is a fact.

Now, not ALL muslims feel this way, nor do they feel the need to impose their religion upon a western society.

But it just takes a few vocal ones to do it, combined with the idiotic soclialism and liberals in the western countries, and before you know it, it takes root.

posted by POV on Tue Apr 14, 2009 7:07 AM

posted by paper reader k on Mon Apr 13, 2009 8:47 AM

My dear Hasan,

Perhaps I'll attend your meeting Saturday.

........................

Yes Paperk I encourage you to do so with an OPEN mind. Then come back and report on what you experienced, without bias.

Unfortunatly I have serious doubts you will follow through on your threat to attempt learn something.

posted by Charles60191 on Tue Apr 14, 2009 8:14 AM

There is not a country on this planet that does not have issues with their Muslim population.

France? Muslim Problems (Riots last year)

Canada? Muslim Problems (Citizens of Toronto are being intimidated by Muslim groups)

Spain? Muslim Problems (Remember the bombings?)

Iraq? Muslim problems (They are ALL Muslims in Iraq and they can't get along)

Any country that has a mix of ANYONE and Muslims has issues with the Muslim population.

Why is that?

Could it be that Muslims get upset when everyone else does not bow to their needs?

Are Muslims militant and violent due to the teachings of their religion?

Are these people just animals and totally incapable of living among other people?

Whatever the case may be, I have yet to see ANY high ranking Muslim cleric speak out against the violence, caused by Muslims, in the name of Islam. NOT A SINGLE HIGH RANKING MUSLIM CLERIC.

The bottom line is that this "Religion" is a sadistic and oppressive cult that has no tolerance to any view point beyond its own teachings. They are completely unable to mix with any society (including their own).

End Islamophobia?

No

End Islamofascism.

posted by TGSantini on Tue Apr 14, 2009 9:47 AM

Hasan's letter sounds a bit like a trolling pervert telling a youg kid to get in his car because he has candy.

No one ever shows the kid the candy and no Islam-o-"insert suffix here" has denounced the terror perpatrated by his fellow religious bretheren.

If you want to be accepted then you have to all play by a common set of rules. In this country those rules are the Constitution.

If they take control of this country then we have no one to blame but ourselves and our liberal politicaly-correct pandering idiocy.

I'm fine for letting people practice their religion as long as it stays their religion and isn't forced on anyone else.

If you want Islam to be accepted in America then you have to publicly denounce the horrible deeds done by your brothers and sister.

CHEERS

posted by tahmed on Tue Apr 14, 2009 11:23 AM

A couple of clarifications: What is Allah?s cause, to harm fellow beings?? His cause is to create peace and harmony amongst all of us not to quarrel and kill one another. The other cause is to worship one true God!

What is Jihad, it is a struggle or to strive to do the better righteous thing. Therefore, each of us has a Jihad, we want to create peace and that is a struggle, it is the right thing to do. Jihad is not a war of machines, ammunitions, etc. We want a better life for our families that is Jihad, we want the right environment and peace for our children.

It is the believer?s task to reflect over the Holy Qur?an and the advice and counsel of the Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be on him)

Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) said ?Avoid oppression because oppression will manifest itself as darkness on the Day of Judgment. Avoid greed, materialism, and malice as it destroyed the earlier people.?

posted by tahmed on Tue Apr 14, 2009 11:25 AM

The Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) defined ?a destitute person? as that individual amongst us who will present himself on the Day of Judgment with his prayers and his fasting. However, he would have had abused people and take over other?s property and physically harmed others. His virtues (prayers & fasting) will be granted to his victims and he will thus be ?destitute?.

These are just 2 simple examples from Muhammad.

There are individuals who observe worship of God and who give a lot in financial terms, however, they do not recognize other?s rights. Purity is not by virtue of what is apparent; rather it is by virtue of the state of one?s heart. That is what we should concerns ourselves with, look in the mirror and say am I pure in my heart, am I feeding the wrong message to others to create disharmony? It seems like the overwhelming majority are creating disharmony, is this a trap?

Now, will any of you come to this event, will you ask questions, will you meet Muslims? I am an American, I care about my country and yes I am a Muslim, meet me and talk to me, I am as human as you are, I care more about the society than myself. I simply dare you to come

posted by Pumbaa on Tue Apr 14, 2009 1:52 PM

posted by tahmed on Tue Apr 14, 2009 11:25 AM

Now, will any of you come to this event, will you ask questions, will you meet Muslims? I am an American, I care about my country and yes I am a Muslim, meet me and talk to me, I am as human as you are, I care more about the society than myself. I simply dare you to come.

---

I wish I could make it but have several other commitments Saturday. I truly respect the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community for this outreach and hope that there will be many more.

I wish you much luck with this project and hope it goes well. As you can see from several posters here- Islamophobia is seemingly contagious.

posted by PeaceMaker7 on Tue Apr 14, 2009 5:13 PM

For those interested in reading about Ahmadiyya Muslim Community's view towards terrorism, there is plenty of literature available at http://www.alislam.org/terrorism.html you are welcome to read it.