My New Friend Sakeena - Page 10

***daniel aljughaifi*** · 01-26-2006, 08:30 PM

Why are you going to go and get me all teary eyed? Sis I hope Allah(swt) gives you the good in this world and in the hearafter.

waedmona · 01-26-2006, 09:10 PM

Assalamualaikum sister,
From reading your response, you represent to me what being a Muslim is. When I was your age, and that was 6 years ago, I began learning more about Islam in ramadan and I really wanted to wear the hijab. My parents and brother were all encouraging me and I had no problem with it, just as long as my friends at school didn't see me. I would wear the hijab in the morning when my mom took me to school and take it off as soon as I entered the school. I felt terrible every time I did that. I felt like such a hypocrite, but I was too afraid of what others might think. Now that I wear the hijab proudly and love Islam and would give my life for Allah, I regret those days when my iman was weak. So when I read your story and imagine your struggles, I feel great admiration for you. Don't let anyone tell you, you are too young to be so passionate about a religion and way of life because I really believe that you are destined to be a leader among Muslims and non-Muslims. You have what it takes because you question everything and are not afraid to stand up for truth. Your actions bring out the spirit of Islam. May Allah be with you.

Sakeena · 01-26-2006, 10:11 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by daniel aljughaifi

Why are you going to go and get me all teary eyed? Sis I hope Allah(swt) gives you the good in this world and in the hearafter.

Assalamu alaikum.

Part Two...

...Allah will forbid the fire [from touching] anyone who has testified 'There is no true god except Allah, and Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah'.

From the day I was born until the time it took me to learn how to walk; I am a Muslim. This is how I feel about Islam and for Allah. I soon waited for Hina's father, Sha, to arrive, but my mum came too soon and he did not come before her.
I saw my mum pull up in her red van. I gasped, "Noo..!!" "What is wrong?" My mum's back.." "Is that her?" "Yes." "Go on sister. Go with your mother". "No, sister! I don't want to go home! Can't I stay with you?" "Hmm..." "Please..!!" "Sister, she's your mother, you have to go.." "But she does not treat me right.." I began to cry, as I hid behind the wall near the door. She says nothing, just walks out the door, with me behind her, walking slowly. "Can you at least talk to her..?? For me..??" "I'm sorry, sister. She's your mother, inshallah." My eyes widend. "Go now, sister. Ameen, my Allah protect you.."
I got inside the van. The sister looked back at me, and said goodbye. My mum ordered me to remove the hijab, once again. She snapped at me as if someone had stoled her soul. Her voice was breaking. Had I known she would be this mad at me I would have stayed hidden, until Hina's dad arrived to pick me up. But then what? Somehow, I still did not remove it from my head.Then I murmured to myself, "Verily after hardship is ease". I did not give in.
I told her I will remove it when we get home. -And I did. She could not do anything about it. -Yes, she yelled at her, and yes I was quite hurt right then, but afterward I felt sad, but I knew that I had done the right thing. Why else would I run into such a sister back at the laundry mat? I cannot stay with her and practice Islam, I need refuge..

Assalamu alaikum wa rahmatullah,

-Sakeena.

***daniel aljughaifi*** · 01-27-2006, 01:06 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Sakeena

I cannot stay with her and practice Islam, I need refuge..

Allah(swt) says:"And recite (and teach) what has been revealed to thee of the Book of thy Lord:none can change His Words, and none wilt thou find as a refuge other than Him." Surat Al Kahaf 27

Seek refuge in Allah(swt). Read Surat Al Kahaf, subanAllah! They did indeed find refuge in their Lord(swt)!

Allah(swt) says: "(The young men said to one another): "And when you withdraw from them, and that which they worship, except Allah, then seek refuge in the Cave, your Lord will open a way for you from His Mercy and will make easy for you your affair(i.e. will give you what you will need of provision, dwelling, etc.)."

Sister your cave is the Quran go into it and remember the favors of your Lord(swt).
Allah(swt) says: "Allah has bestowed favors from among the prophets and the truthful and the martyrs and the good, and a goodly company are they"

May Allah(swt) put us all in the best of company in this world and in the hearafter!

Sakeena · 01-27-2006, 02:46 PM

Assalamu alaikum brothers and sisters.

My hijab is gone, I need another place to go, I can't stay with mum and practice Islam.
She won't let me. I need another place to go. Somewhere else to live.
Sisters I feel that I cannot stay there anymore! I'm not giving up, but I'm not allowed to use computer, the phone, I can't talk to other Muslims either! She is taking all joys away form me! Help!!

Maa Salaama.

-Sakeena.

waedmona · 01-27-2006, 09:11 PM

There are three Islamic centers in Georgia that are in the Muslim yellow pages and they are:

Dalton Islamic Center, 843 McAfee St., Dalton,GA 706-226-9841

Islamic Society of Augusta, 3416 Middleton St., Augusta, Georgia 706-868-7278

Masjid al Muminun, 1127 Capitol Ave., Atlanta, Georgia 706-378-4219

waedmona · 01-27-2006, 09:32 PM

Start out going NORTH on W FAYETTEVILLE RD / GA-314 toward E FAYETTEVILLE RD.1.5 milesMap

</IMG>

2:Turn RIGHT onto PHOENIX PKWY.0.3 milesMap

</IMG>

3:Turn RIGHT onto PHOENIX BLVD.0.3 milesMap

</IMG>http://mqsigns.aolcdn.com/?s=rs&t=RS...139&d=NORTH&v=4:Turn SLIGHT LEFT onto RIVERDALE RD / GA-139 N.<0.1 milesMap

</IMG>http://mqsigns.aolcdn.com/?s=rs&t=RS...=285&d=EAST&v=5:Merge onto I-285 E / GA-407 E.1.3 milesMap

</IMG>http://mqsigns.aolcdn.com/?s=rs&t=RS...=75&d=NORTH&v=6:Merge onto I-75 N via EXIT 58 toward ATLANTA.7.5 milesMap

</IMG>http://mqsigns.aolcdn.com/?s=rs&t=RS...UM&n=244&d=&v=7:Take the UNIVERSITY AVENUE exit- EXIT 244- toward PRYOR ST.0.2 milesMap

</IMG>

8:Take the ramp toward PRYOR ST..<0.1 milesMap

</IMG>http://mqsigns.aolcdn.com/?s=rs&t=RS...n=54&d=EAST&v=9:Turn SLIGHT RIGHT onto UNIVERSITY AVE SW / GA-54 E.0.3 milesMap

</IMG>

10:Turn SLIGHT RIGHT onto UNIVERSITY AVE SW / GA-54.<0.1 milesMap

</IMG>

11:End at [1200-1203] Capitol Ave Sw
Atlanta, GA 30315, US Map

</IMG>Total Est. Time: 19 minutes Total Est. Distance: 11.96 miles

Sakeena · 02-06-2006, 02:29 PM

Assalamu alaikum.

Alhamdulilah,

I remember...

It was early Saturday morning, I woke up early for Fajr. Since I was already up and
could not sleep, I might as well make du'aa before I do anything else. I puuled out my Hawaiian mat. I spreaded it out on the floor then folded it up, facing it toward Mecca.
Then I got down on my knees putting my forehead to the to the mat on the floor, and started by saying:
"Al-hamdu lillahe allathee ahyaana ba'da maa amaatanaa wa ilayhin-nushoor"
(All praise is due to Allah who gave us life after having taken it from us and unto Him
is the resurrection).
I sat back up. While facing Mecca, I lifted both my hand up, with my palms reaching for more saying:
"In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

By the Break of Day;

By the Nights twice five;

By the Even and Odd [contrasted];

And by the Night when it passeth away;

Is there not (not) in these in these an adjuration
or evidence for those who understand?"

Then I slowly read the next du'aa from Surat al Iklas.
I leaned over putting my nose and forehead to the floor
again. From my heart I recited Surat al Iklas:

"In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

He is Allah, the One and Only;

Allah, the Eternal, Absolute;

He begetheth not, nor is He begotten;

And there is none like unto Him."

When I then remembered to thank Allah by reciting Al-Fatihah
I learned my heart:

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

Praise be to Allah, The Lord of the Worlds.

The Beneficent, the Merciful,

Master of the Day of Requital.

Thee do we serve and Thee do we beseech for help.

Guide us on the right path,

The path of those upon whom Thou hast bestowed favours,

Not those upon whom wrath is brought down, nor those who go astray".

And to end my Fajr, I said:

"Ya Muqallibal-quloob, thabbit qalbee 'ala deenik"

(O Changer of the Hearts, steady my heart on Your religion.)

I remember the night when my mum was angry at me. I walked up to the window
in my bedroom and cried out: "MY LORD! BESTOW ON THEM THY MERCY EVEN AS
THEY CHERISED ME IN CHILDHOOD".

Before I walked away I asked Allah to forgive her,

"Aoothubillahiminashaytan ar rajeem".

But things aren't any easier than before, ameen. I still wonder if what my mum said that night was true, or just out of anger? She said that if I
will continue to practice Islam, then I can't stay here with her, or I can
just abandon Islam and live my life as one of them.Those seem to be my
only choices, but so far, she has done nothing to support that statement.
Hina and her sister, Marvish, are trying their best think of a solution to
this never ending problem, but until then I will have to remain patient and
make plently of du'aa.That is all I can do for now. I will also get into contact
with the Fayetville masjid. Maybe the Imam there can think of something?
Hopefully, all will end well and I will free to practice Islam openly and start
to attend the local masjid for more info. One day I will be free out of any one
telling me what to believe and what not to believe, I will spread my wings and soar. Right now, I'm like a lonely little dove, who is trapped in a cold, dark cage by her unforgiving master.
I pour my heart out to those to want to help me, but it seems that the cage is sealed shut. My only hope is to make du'aa much as possible, and then a Great Light will shine upon my ever-so-dark cage and melt the devil
shadows and free me from my misery. Just like when I first embraced Islam,
Allah said,

"...This day, I have perfected your religion for you, completed my favour
upon you, and have chosen for you Islam as your religion..."

And when I feel sad, I just remember another thing Allah passed down to Hina to tell me:

And your Lord says: "Call on Me and I will answer your (prayer)".

But when all is going wrong with me and my mum, I just murmur to myself: "Verily after hardship is ease", over and over, then I feel much better, knowing that Allah is watching over me from Him Mighty thrown in Jannah.
And I always remember, "Laa Elaaha Illallaah" (There is no god but Allah).

I will always believe, ameen.

One purpose, one purpose...

Assalamu alaikum wa rahmatullah wa barakutah,

-Sakeena.

waedmona · 02-06-2006, 08:51 PM

Sister, you have to read this! I got it from islamicity.com

Usama Ibn Zaid commented: "The Prophet used to pardon the abusers a great deal as God has commanded him until God permitted him to confront them ..
Audio

var sCurURL=top.location.href; var sDomain = leftOf("/articles",sCurURL.toLowerCase()) var sPath = rightOf("/articles",sCurURL.toLowerCase()) //alert(sPath); sDomain=sDomain.toLowerCase(); if (sDomain!="http://www.islamicity.com") { sDomain="http://www.islamicity.com" top.location.href=sDomain + '/' + 'articles/' + sPath } var sURLTOGO=top.location.href; var sMemberOnlyProgramCaption="--article--" var iFrequencyInSeconds=60 var iFrequencyInSecondsAfterLogin=60 var iPreviewTimeInMinutes=3 var iTrackInGlobalASA=0 var iActivity2BStored=0 var sHeight="50" var sWidth="95%" var sProtectType=2 var sProtectPCount=0 In the Face of Abuse and Hardship
2/6/2006 - Religious - Article Ref: IC0602-2898
Number of comments: 2
By: Sayyid Qutb
IslamiCity* -

In the Face of Abuse and Hardship: You shall most certainly be tried in your possessions and in your persons; and you shall hear much hurting abuse from those who were given revelations before you and from those who set up partners with God. But if you persevere and continue to fear God -that is indeed a matter requiring strong resolve. (Quran 3:186)

In this verse, God tells the believers in no uncertain terms that they will have to undergo tests and trials which will affect them and their possessions. They have to persevere and remain steadfast in order to prove themselves worthy of God's trust and His great reward. It is the natural way of things when it comes to the establishment of any faith in real life that its advocates should stand a hard test. There is no escaping the fact that they will have to demonstrate their patience in adversity, their determined resistance and strong resolve as also their readiness to sacrifice whatever is required of their possessions and their persons. This is the only way to heaven which cannot be attained without sacrifice and hardship. Hell, on the other hand, is surrounded by easy pleasures and temptations. Moreover, there is no other way to mould the community which will become the standard-bearer of Islam and discharge its duties. This community must receive thorough education and cultivation in order to heighten its potentials and strengths. The only way is the practical discharge of the duties imposed by their faith and by their gaining a true and practical knowledge of life and people as they are. The trials are needed so that only the strongest in faith continue to advocate the Islamic call. It is only such people that are worthy of its advocacy since only they are fully equipped to be so entrusted. Moreover, it is through trial and perseverance that faith becomes dearer to the faithful. The more they have to endure of hardship and the more sacrifice they have to give for their faith the more valuable it becomes to them. They do not turn their backs on it afterwards, not in any circumstances.

This is in the nature of faith and ideology: to withstand such trials while maintaining fear of God, so that repelling aggression by others does not turn into counter-aggression, and despair is not allowed to becloud one's vision as one goes through the hardships. But this is far from easy: "That is indeed a matter requiring strong resolve. "

Trials strengthen those who are tried. It is resistance which sharpens potentials and consolidates them. A new faith requires that these potentials be heightened so that it can establish its roots deep in the most fertile soil of human nature.

It is also through trials that the advocates of a faith come to know themselves as they are. They will look at themselves as they struggle for their faith. They become more aware of human nature in reality and its latent potentials, and they know the true nature of societies and communities. They observe the struggle between their own principles on the one hand and desires and temptations on the other. They become aware of how Satan works on man leading him astray and causing him to err.

Moreover, it is through the trials endured by the advocates of a certain faith that its opponents come to realize that there is much good irk it; its followers have stuck by it despite all the hardships they have endured for its sake. It is then that those opponents may themselves accept that faith en masse.

This is in the nature of faith and ideology: to withstand such trials while maintaining fear of God, so that repelling aggression by others does not turn into counter-aggression, and despair is not allowed to becloud one's vision as one goes through the hardships. But this is far from easy: "That is indeed a matter requiring strong resolve. "

The Muslim community in Madinah was thus made aware of what awaits it of sacrifice, agony, abuse and trial in possessions and persons. These were to be inflicted by its enemies, whether these followed earlier religions or were idolaters. Despite all this, the Muslim community was determined to go along its way, without reluctance or hesitation. Members of that Muslim community in Madinah were certain that every soul will taste death, and that rewards are paid on the Day of Resurrection. They knew that true triumph is that of being drawn away from the fire and of being brought into paradise. To them, the life of this world was nothing but an illusory enjoyment. It is on such hard rocks that the Muslim community in Madinah stood and along that straight and correct way it made its strides. The same hard rocks and the same straight way are available to its advocates in every generation. The enemies of this faith remain the same. Generations follow generations and still they plot to undermine it. The Qur'an, however, remains the same, well preserved by God.

Tafsir Ibn Kathir
Quran 3:186

(And you shall certainly hear much that will grieve you from those who received the Scripture before you and from those who ascribe partners to God.)

God informed the believers that upon their arrival in Madinah, prior to the Battle of Badr, they would face much grief from the people of the Scripture and from the polytheists, but they, in turn, should remain calm and patient, until God should relieve them.

Then God comforts them: (but if you perserve patiently, and become al-Muttaqun (pious) - then that is of the steadfast heart of things)

In this respect, Ibn Abu Hatim narrated, on the authority of Usama Ibn Zaid: "The Prophet and his Companions used to pardon the idolators and the People of the Scripture as God commanded them, and used to show patience in the face of the abuse they used to receive.

God said: (And you shall certainly hear much that will grieve you from those who received the Scripture before you and from those who ascribe partners to God)

Usama Ibn Zaid commented: "The Prophet used to pardon them a great deal as God has commanded him until God permitted him to confront them.

The methods of trial may differ from time to time, but the principle remains the same: "You shall most certainly be tried in your possessions and in your persons; and you shall hear much hurting abuse from those who were given revelations before you and from those who set up partners with God. "(Verse 186)

The surah gives many examples of the schemes adopted by people of earlier religions and the idolaters and their propaganda which aimed to cast doubt and confusion on the very fundamentals of Islam and on its followers and their leadership. These examples are always renewed and new methods and forms added to them as new means of communication become available. They are all directed against Islam and its principles of faith as well as against the Muslim community and its leadership. Hence, the same principle which God explains to the first Muslim community as He points out its way and the nature of its enemy remains always applicable.

This Qur'anic directive remains valid for the Muslim community every time it takes upon itself to implement God's method in practical life. It reassures the Muslims that God's promise will come true. All that it has to endure of trials, abuse, false accusation and hardship becomes very pleasant, since it is no more than a confirmation that the community is going along the way God intends. It is fully certain that perseverance and maintaining its fear of God are all the equipment it needs. All enemy schemes are of little effect. Trials and abuse are of no consequence.

Excerpted from "In the Shade of the Quran - Fi Zilala al-Quran" by Sayyid Qutb. Translated and edited by Adil Salahi & Ashur Shamis

In the Shade of the Quran is more than 'just another' commentary; yet it is not too overreaching or outlandish to be a completely new interpretation. It is an earnest, sincere and sober look at man's contemporary achievements and difficulties in the light of the message of the Quran.

waedmona · 02-06-2006, 08:59 PM

Your post reminded me of Surat al 'Alaq

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

[1] Proclaim! (or Read!) In the name of thy Lord and Cherisher, Who created,

[2] Created man, out of a (mere) clot of congealed blood:

[3] Proclaim! and thy Lord is Most Bountiful,

[4] He Who taught (the use of) the Pen,

[5] Taught man that which he knew not.

[6] Nay, but man doth transgress all bounds,

[7] In that he looketh upon himself as self-sufficient.

[8] Verily, to thy Lord is the return (of all).

[9] Seest thou one who forbids,

[10] A votary when he (turns) to pray?

[11] Seest thou if he is on (the road of) Guidance?

Recitation Al-Husari Al-Hudhaifi

Translations. English Français Deutsch Türkçe Melayu Indonesia

01-26-2006, 08:30 PM	#91
*daniel aljughaifi* النجدي الوهابي Join Date: Aug 2005 Location: "the land" 17:103 Posts: 536 Gender:	Why are you going to go and get me all teary eyed? Sis I hope Allah(swt) gives you the good in this world and in the hearafter. __________________ "There is nothing on the face of the earth that is more in need of being imprisoned for a lenghty period of time than the tongue" Abdullah Ibn Mas'ood "The one who is in love is a slave to the one he loves" Sheikhul Islam Ibnu Taymiyyah Unite and Conquer Daniel Al-Jughaifi's Blog

01-26-2006, 09:10 PM	#92
waedmona I love Islam Join Date: Oct 2005 Location: Houston Posts: 104 Gender:	So happy for you! Assalamualaikum sister, From reading your response, you represent to me what being a Muslim is. When I was your age, and that was 6 years ago, I began learning more about Islam in ramadan and I really wanted to wear the hijab. My parents and brother were all encouraging me and I had no problem with it, just as long as my friends at school didn't see me. I would wear the hijab in the morning when my mom took me to school and take it off as soon as I entered the school. I felt terrible every time I did that. I felt like such a hypocrite, but I was too afraid of what others might think. Now that I wear the hijab proudly and love Islam and would give my life for Allah, I regret those days when my iman was weak. So when I read your story and imagine your struggles, I feel great admiration for you. Don't let anyone tell you, you are too young to be so passionate about a religion and way of life because I really believe that you are destined to be a leader among Muslims and non-Muslims. You have what it takes because you question everything and are not afraid to stand up for truth. Your actions bring out the spirit of Islam. May Allah be with you. __________________ Lies run sprints, but the truth runs marathons. The truth will set you free.

01-27-2006, 09:11 PM	#96
waedmona I love Islam Join Date: Oct 2005 Location: Houston Posts: 104 Gender:	There are three Islamic centers in Georgia that are in the Muslim yellow pages and they are: Dalton Islamic Center, 843 McAfee St., Dalton,GA 706-226-9841 Islamic Society of Augusta, 3416 Middleton St., Augusta, Georgia 706-868-7278 Masjid al Muminun, 1127 Capitol Ave., Atlanta, Georgia 706-378-4219 __________________ Lies run sprints, but the truth runs marathons. The truth will set you free.

01-27-2006, 09:32 PM	#97
waedmona I love Islam Join Date: Oct 2005 Location: Houston Posts: 104 Gender:	Start out going NORTH on W FAYETTEVILLE RD / GA-314 toward E FAYETTEVILLE RD.1.5 milesMap</IMG>2:Turn RIGHT onto PHOENIX PKWY.0.3 milesMap</IMG>3:Turn RIGHT onto PHOENIX BLVD.0.3 milesMap</IMG>http://mqsigns.aolcdn.com/?s=rs&t=RS...139&d=NORTH&v=4:Turn SLIGHT LEFT onto RIVERDALE RD / GA-139 N.<0.1 milesMap</IMG>http://mqsigns.aolcdn.com/?s=rs&t=RS...=285&d=EAST&v=5:Merge onto I-285 E / GA-407 E.1.3 milesMap</IMG>http://mqsigns.aolcdn.com/?s=rs&t=RS...=75&d=NORTH&v=6:Merge onto I-75 N via EXIT 58 toward ATLANTA.7.5 milesMap</IMG>http://mqsigns.aolcdn.com/?s=rs&t=RS...UM&n=244&d=&v=7:Take the UNIVERSITY AVENUE exit- EXIT 244- toward PRYOR ST.0.2 milesMap</IMG>8:Take the ramp toward PRYOR ST..<0.1 milesMap</IMG>http://mqsigns.aolcdn.com/?s=rs&t=RS...n=54&d=EAST&v=9:Turn SLIGHT RIGHT onto UNIVERSITY AVE SW / GA-54 E.0.3 milesMap</IMG>10:Turn SLIGHT RIGHT onto UNIVERSITY AVE SW / GA-54.<0.1 milesMap</IMG>11:End at [1200-1203] Capitol Ave Sw Atlanta, GA 30315, US Map</IMG>Total Est. Time: 19 minutes Total Est. Distance: 11.96 miles __________________ Lies run sprints, but the truth runs marathons. The truth will set you free.

02-06-2006, 08:51 PM	#99
waedmona I love Islam Join Date: Oct 2005 Location: Houston Posts: 104 Gender:	Sister, you have to read this! I got it from islamicity.com Usama Ibn Zaid commented: "The Prophet used to pardon the abusers a great deal as God has commanded him until God permitted him to confront them .. Audio var sCurURL=top.location.href; var sDomain = leftOf("/articles",sCurURL.toLowerCase()) var sPath = rightOf("/articles",sCurURL.toLowerCase()) //alert(sPath); sDomain=sDomain.toLowerCase(); if (sDomain!="http://www.islamicity.com") { sDomain="http://www.islamicity.com" top.location.href=sDomain + '/' + 'articles/' + sPath } var sURLTOGO=top.location.href; var sMemberOnlyProgramCaption="--article--" var iFrequencyInSeconds=60 var iFrequencyInSecondsAfterLogin=60 var iPreviewTimeInMinutes=3 var iTrackInGlobalASA=0 var iActivity2BStored=0 var sHeight="50" var sWidth="95%" var sProtectType=2 var sProtectPCount=0 In the Face of Abuse and Hardship 2/6/2006 - Religious - Article Ref: IC0602-2898 Number of comments: 2 By: Sayyid Qutb IslamiCity* - In the Face of Abuse and Hardship: You shall most certainly be tried in your possessions and in your persons; and you shall hear much hurting abuse from those who were given revelations before you and from those who set up partners with God. But if you persevere and continue to fear God -that is indeed a matter requiring strong resolve. (Quran 3:186) In this verse, God tells the believers in no uncertain terms that they will have to undergo tests and trials which will affect them and their possessions. They have to persevere and remain steadfast in order to prove themselves worthy of God's trust and His great reward. It is the natural way of things when it comes to the establishment of any faith in real life that its advocates should stand a hard test. There is no escaping the fact that they will have to demonstrate their patience in adversity, their determined resistance and strong resolve as also their readiness to sacrifice whatever is required of their possessions and their persons. This is the only way to heaven which cannot be attained without sacrifice and hardship. Hell, on the other hand, is surrounded by easy pleasures and temptations. Moreover, there is no other way to mould the community which will become the standard-bearer of Islam and discharge its duties. This community must receive thorough education and cultivation in order to heighten its potentials and strengths. The only way is the practical discharge of the duties imposed by their faith and by their gaining a true and practical knowledge of life and people as they are. The trials are needed so that only the strongest in faith continue to advocate the Islamic call. It is only such people that are worthy of its advocacy since only they are fully equipped to be so entrusted. Moreover, it is through trial and perseverance that faith becomes dearer to the faithful. The more they have to endure of hardship and the more sacrifice they have to give for their faith the more valuable it becomes to them. They do not turn their backs on it afterwards, not in any circumstances. This is in the nature of faith and ideology: to withstand such trials while maintaining fear of God, so that repelling aggression by others does not turn into counter-aggression, and despair is not allowed to becloud one's vision as one goes through the hardships. But this is far from easy: "That is indeed a matter requiring strong resolve. " Trials strengthen those who are tried. It is resistance which sharpens potentials and consolidates them. A new faith requires that these potentials be heightened so that it can establish its roots deep in the most fertile soil of human nature. It is also through trials that the advocates of a faith come to know themselves as they are. They will look at themselves as they struggle for their faith. They become more aware of human nature in reality and its latent potentials, and they know the true nature of societies and communities. They observe the struggle between their own principles on the one hand and desires and temptations on the other. They become aware of how Satan works on man leading him astray and causing him to err. Moreover, it is through the trials endured by the advocates of a certain faith that its opponents come to realize that there is much good irk it; its followers have stuck by it despite all the hardships they have endured for its sake. It is then that those opponents may themselves accept that faith en masse. This is in the nature of faith and ideology: to withstand such trials while maintaining fear of God, so that repelling aggression by others does not turn into counter-aggression, and despair is not allowed to becloud one's vision as one goes through the hardships. But this is far from easy: "That is indeed a matter requiring strong resolve. " The Muslim community in Madinah was thus made aware of what awaits it of sacrifice, agony, abuse and trial in possessions and persons. These were to be inflicted by its enemies, whether these followed earlier religions or were idolaters. Despite all this, the Muslim community was determined to go along its way, without reluctance or hesitation. Members of that Muslim community in Madinah were certain that every soul will taste death, and that rewards are paid on the Day of Resurrection. They knew that true triumph is that of being drawn away from the fire and of being brought into paradise. To them, the life of this world was nothing but an illusory enjoyment. It is on such hard rocks that the Muslim community in Madinah stood and along that straight and correct way it made its strides. The same hard rocks and the same straight way are available to its advocates in every generation. The enemies of this faith remain the same. Generations follow generations and still they plot to undermine it. The Qur'an, however, remains the same, well preserved by God. Tafsir Ibn Kathir Quran 3:186 (And you shall certainly hear much that will grieve you from those who received the Scripture before you and from those who ascribe partners to God.) God informed the believers that upon their arrival in Madinah, prior to the Battle of Badr, they would face much grief from the people of the Scripture and from the polytheists, but they, in turn, should remain calm and patient, until God should relieve them. Then God comforts them: (but if you perserve patiently, and become al-Muttaqun (pious) - then that is of the steadfast heart of things) In this respect, Ibn Abu Hatim narrated, on the authority of Usama Ibn Zaid: "The Prophet and his Companions used to pardon the idolators and the People of the Scripture as God commanded them, and used to show patience in the face of the abuse they used to receive. God said: (And you shall certainly hear much that will grieve you from those who received the Scripture before you and from those who ascribe partners to God) Usama Ibn Zaid commented: "The Prophet used to pardon them a great deal as God has commanded him until God permitted him to confront them. The methods of trial may differ from time to time, but the principle remains the same: "You shall most certainly be tried in your possessions and in your persons; and you shall hear much hurting abuse from those who were given revelations before you and from those who set up partners with God. "(Verse 186) The surah gives many examples of the schemes adopted by people of earlier religions and the idolaters and their propaganda which aimed to cast doubt and confusion on the very fundamentals of Islam and on its followers and their leadership. These examples are always renewed and new methods and forms added to them as new means of communication become available. They are all directed against Islam and its principles of faith as well as against the Muslim community and its leadership. Hence, the same principle which God explains to the first Muslim community as He points out its way and the nature of its enemy remains always applicable. This Qur'anic directive remains valid for the Muslim community every time it takes upon itself to implement God's method in practical life. It reassures the Muslims that God's promise will come true. All that it has to endure of trials, abuse, false accusation and hardship becomes very pleasant, since it is no more than a confirmation that the community is going along the way God intends. It is fully certain that perseverance and maintaining its fear of God are all the equipment it needs. All enemy schemes are of little effect. Trials and abuse are of no consequence. Excerpted from "In the Shade of the Quran - Fi Zilala al-Quran" by Sayyid Qutb. Translated and edited by Adil Salahi & Ashur Shamis In the Shade of the Quran is more than 'just another' commentary; yet it is not too overreaching or outlandish to be a completely new interpretation. It is an earnest, sincere and sober look at man's contemporary achievements and difficulties in the light of the message of the Quran. __________________ Lies run sprints, but the truth runs marathons. The truth will set you free.

01-27-2006, 02:46 PM	#95
Sakeena Member Join Date: Dec 2005 Posts: 187 My Mood: Gender:	Assalamu alaikum brothers and sisters. My hijab is gone, I need another place to go, I can't stay with mum and practice Islam. She won't let me. I need another place to go. Somewhere else to live. Sisters I feel that I cannot stay there anymore! I'm not giving up, but I'm not allowed to use computer, the phone, I can't talk to other Muslims either! She is taking all joys away form me! Help!! Maa Salaama. -Sakeena.

02-06-2006, 02:29 PM	#98
Sakeena Member Join Date: Dec 2005 Posts: 187 My Mood: Gender:	Assalamu alaikum. Alhamdulilah, I remember... It was early Saturday morning, I woke up early for Fajr. Since I was already up and could not sleep, I might as well make du'aa before I do anything else. I puuled out my Hawaiian mat. I spreaded it out on the floor then folded it up, facing it toward Mecca. Then I got down on my knees putting my forehead to the to the mat on the floor, and started by saying: "Al-hamdu lillahe allathee ahyaana ba'da maa amaatanaa wa ilayhin-nushoor" (All praise is due to Allah who gave us life after having taken it from us and unto Him is the resurrection). I sat back up. While facing Mecca, I lifted both my hand up, with my palms reaching for more saying: "In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful. By the Break of Day; By the Nights twice five; By the Even and Odd [contrasted]; And by the Night when it passeth away; Is there not (not) in these in these an adjuration or evidence for those who understand?" Then I slowly read the next du'aa from Surat al Iklas. I leaned over putting my nose and forehead to the floor again. From my heart I recited Surat al Iklas: "In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful. He is Allah, the One and Only; Allah, the Eternal, Absolute; He begetheth not, nor is He begotten; And there is none like unto Him." When I then remembered to thank Allah by reciting Al-Fatihah I learned my heart: In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, The Lord of the Worlds. The Beneficent, the Merciful, Master of the Day of Requital. Thee do we serve and Thee do we beseech for help. Guide us on the right path, The path of those upon whom Thou hast bestowed favours, Not those upon whom wrath is brought down, nor those who go astray". And to end my Fajr, I said: "Ya Muqallibal-quloob, thabbit qalbee 'ala deenik" (O Changer of the Hearts, steady my heart on Your religion.) I remember the night when my mum was angry at me. I walked up to the window in my bedroom and cried out: "MY LORD! BESTOW ON THEM THY MERCY EVEN AS THEY CHERISED ME IN CHILDHOOD". Before I walked away I asked Allah to forgive her, "Aoothubillahiminashaytan ar rajeem". But things aren't any easier than before, ameen. I still wonder if what my mum said that night was true, or just out of anger? She said that if I will continue to practice Islam, then I can't stay here with her, or I can just abandon Islam and live my life as one of them.Those seem to be my only choices, but so far, she has done nothing to support that statement. Hina and her sister, Marvish, are trying their best think of a solution to this never ending problem, but until then I will have to remain patient and make plently of du'aa.That is all I can do for now. I will also get into contact with the Fayetville masjid. Maybe the Imam there can think of something? Hopefully, all will end well and I will free to practice Islam openly and start to attend the local masjid for more info. One day I will be free out of any one telling me what to believe and what not to believe, I will spread my wings and soar. Right now, I'm like a lonely little dove, who is trapped in a cold, dark cage by her unforgiving master. I pour my heart out to those to want to help me, but it seems that the cage is sealed shut. My only hope is to make du'aa much as possible, and then a Great Light will shine upon my ever-so-dark cage and melt the devil shadows and free me from my misery. Just like when I first embraced Islam, Allah said, "...This day, I have perfected your religion for you, completed my favour upon you, and have chosen for you Islam as your religion..." And when I feel sad, I just remember another thing Allah passed down to Hina to tell me: And your Lord says: "Call on Me and I will answer your (prayer)". But when all is going wrong with me and my mum, I just murmur to myself: "Verily after hardship is ease", over and over, then I feel much better, knowing that Allah is watching over me from Him Mighty thrown in Jannah. And I always remember, "Laa Elaaha Illallaah" (There is no god but Allah). I will always believe, ameen. One purpose, one purpose... Assalamu alaikum wa rahmatullah wa barakutah, -Sakeena.

02-06-2006, 08:59 PM	#100
waedmona I love Islam Join Date: Oct 2005 Location: Houston Posts: 104 Gender:	Your post reminded me of Surat al 'Alaq In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful. [1] Proclaim! (or Read!) In the name of thy Lord and Cherisher, Who created, [2] Created man, out of a (mere) clot of congealed blood: [3] Proclaim! and thy Lord is Most Bountiful, [4] He Who taught (the use of) the Pen, [5] Taught man that which he knew not. [6] Nay, but man doth transgress all bounds, [7] In that he looketh upon himself as self-sufficient. [8] Verily, to thy Lord is the return (of all). [9] Seest thou one who forbids, [10] A votary when he (turns) to pray? [11] Seest thou if he is on (the road of) Guidance? Recitation Al-Husari Al-Hudhaifi Translations. English Français Deutsch Türkçe Melayu Indonesia __________________ Lies run sprints, but the truth runs marathons. The truth will set you free.

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