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Monday, March 18, 2024

The Case for Islamic Reform - Response

By Naseer Ahmed, New Age Islam 18 March 2024 Contrary To Popular Belief, The Traditionalists Are Neither Literal, Fundamental, Nor Puritans. They Shun The Literal Meaning As Made Clear By The Quran Itself And Interpret The Quran In Ways That Satisfy Their Bigoted And Misogynistic Notions. ------ The link to the original article: The Case for Islamic Reform Large sections of Muslims hold beliefs that are detrimental to themselves and society. There is, therefore, a case for reform in our theology. Several approaches have been attempted. The traditionalists take the “back to the Islam of the first generation of Muslims or the Salaf approach” because they would like the old days of glory to return. The moderates are dismayed by this for obvious reasons, but their counter is ineffective. They call such people puritans, literalists or fundamentalists. To a believer, these words are high praise. Why would a believer do anything else except follow the pure, pristine, literal meaning of the word of God and be a fundamentalist to the core? The moderates try to cast doubts about the authenticity of the Quran as the word of God, as the article does, by speaking about the existence of manuscripts not included in the Quran, the manner of compiling the Quran, the existence of multiple versions before they were destroyed, etc. These tactics work with lukewarm Muslims but do not affect firm believers. The use of such tactics is proof to the believers that the would-be reformists are a bunch of hypocrites who must be shunned. So, how is reform of the believing population possible? Only by using the Quran. By taking the most extreme literal and fundamentalist approach and showing that Islam is literally and fundamentally a religion of peace, justice, tolerance, and inclusiveness and that the Islam that the bigots follow is abhorrent to Allah. Is this possible? The question itself displays a lack of faith in God and the Quran as the literal word of God. Contrary to popular belief, the traditionalists are neither literal, fundamental, nor Puritans. They shun the literal meaning as made clear by the Quran itself and interpret the Quran in ways that satisfy their bigoted and misogynistic notions. The record can be set straight using the Quran alone. I have done this in my articles and demonstrated the methodology to be followed. Brief Summary of the Gains from the Methodology-Driven Study The methodology-driven study looks at the Quran ab initio without preconceived notions or theological leanings. The conclusions, based on following the methodology outlined, are far more liberal and inclusive than those of the most liberal scholars because even a liberal scholar has not found a way to escape the gravitational pull of Islamic scholarship of the past, which is biased and bigoted. A sound methodology guarantees finding the correct meaning and overcoming the fear of going against the weight of traditional scholarship. The following is a summary of how different the authentic message of the Quran is from the beliefs of the Muslims: 1. Allah does not play favourites with the followers of any particular religion. A person born a Muslim does not have an edge over those born in other faiths. Heaven is not the exclusive preserve of the followers of any particular belief system. 2. The Quran explicitly endorses several religions and, in general, all people who believe in truth, justice, and the Hereafter and do good deeds 3. Only a believer can be a kafir and not a disbeliever. Kufr is rejecting the truth after learning it. Polytheism is kufr for those who know that it is kufr but not for those who lack the required knowledge. 4. The verses about war are faith-neutral and apply equally to people of all religions. This is because war is commanded only against oppression and nothing else. In particular, war is not commanded against a people for their religious beliefs. Just war includes war against Muslim oppressors, even if the oppressed are non-Muslim 5. “Let there be no compulsion in religion” is an unconditional principle, universally applicable under all circumstances. The Quran makes perfect sense without treating any verse as abrogated. The meaning of many of the allegorical (Mutashabihat) verses that remained hidden has been uncovered by science and brought out in my articles. For more on the methodology for determining the precise meaning of the Quran, read The Quran Is Logically Consistent and Unambiguous ----- A frequent contributor to NewAgeIslam.com, Naseer Ahmed is an Engineering graduate from IIT Kanpur and is an independent IT consultant after having served in both the Public and Private sector in responsible positions for over three decades. He has spent years studying Quran in-depth and made seminal contributions to its interpretation. URL: https://newageislam.com/debating-islam/islamic-reform-response/d/131947 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism

Ibn Khaldun And The Creative Evolution Of Life

By T.O. Shanavas, New Age Islam 18 March 2024 The Muslim belief that the human species originated from two individuals, Adam and Eve, and particularly the detail of Eve being created from Adam's rib, is a narrative that finds resonance across the Abrahamic faiths: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. This narrative, deeply embedded within Judeo-Christian theology, indeed made its way into Islamic belief systems, though the mechanisms of this incorporation. The nuances of interpretation can vary. Ibn Khaldun, a renowned Islamic scholar, historian, jurist, and sociologist who lived from 1332 to 1406, indeed discussed the origin of humans in his monumental work, "The Muqaddimah." This comprehensive work, known for its pioneering analysis of the sociological, economic, and historical processes that shape human society, also delves into theological, philosophical, and scientific themes. The celebrated British historian Arnold J. Toynbee described the Muqaddimah as "the greatest work of its kind that has ever been created by any mind in any time" (Reference: Franz Rosenthal, Abridged edition of the Muqaddimah). Ibn Khaldun delves into the evolution of the popular Muslim narrative of creation, noting how it was influenced by the stories of creation found in the Torah, which were adopted and adapted by converted Jews and Christians. This blending of narratives shaped the development of currently prevalent Muslim beliefs surrounding creation. Ibn Khaldun's examination offers insights into the complex interplay of religious texts and traditions in shaping the story of creation of Eve from Adam‘s rib. Ibn Khaldun on Muslim Islamization of Jewish Story of Creation “[The early Arabs] had no books or scholarship [and] desert attitude and illiteracy prevailed among them. When they wanted to learn certain things that human beings are usually curious to know, such as the reasons for existing things, the beginning of creation, and secrets of existence, they consulted earlier People of the Book [Jews and Christians] about it and got their information from them…When they [Jews] became Muslims, they clung to the information they possessed, such as the beginning of the creation…Such men like Ka'b al-Ahbar, Wahb ibn Munabbih, and Abdullah ibn Salam, and similar people. The Qur’an commentaries were filled with material of such tendencies transmitted on their authorities. It is information that entirely depended upon them… The Qur’an interpreters were very rigorous in this respect. they filled the Qur’anic commentaries with such materials, which originated, as we have stated, with the People of Torah.” (Vol.2, page 445-446). Ibn Khaldun accepted "uniformitarianism" and his insights into the development of human races and the origins of species were remarkably advanced for his time. -------------------------------------------------------- Also Read: The Genetic Bottlenecks & Adam: Prophet Adam (s)‘s Role in Human History -------------------------------------------------------- Ibn Khaldun And Evolution Of Life ibn Khaldun suggested that human beings and the natural world are subject to change and transformation, influenced by the environment and other factors. Ibn Khaldun's observations pointed towards a nuanced understanding that human beings and their societies are products of a long history of transformations and adaptations. Ibn Khaldun's narration of the evolution and origin of humans as follows: “One should then look at the world of creation. It started out from the minerals and progressed, in an ingenious, gradual manner to plants and animals. The last stage of minerals is connected with the first stage of plants, such as herbs, and seedless plants. The last stage of plants such as palms and vines is connected with the first stage of animals, such as snails and shellfish which have only the power to touch. The word ‘connection’ with regard to these created things means that the last stage of each group is fully prepared to become the first stage of the next group. The animal world then widens, its species become numerous, and, in a gradual process of creation, it finally leads to man, who is able to think and reflect. The higher stage of man is reached from the world of monkeys, in which both sagacity and perception are found, but which has not reached the stage of actual reflection and thinking. At this point we come to the first stage of man (after the world of monkeys). This is as far as our (physical) observation extends.“ (Ref: Muqaddimah. Vol.1. Page 195). Centuries before the Renaissance of Europe aided by Islamic science and phylosophy, Ibn Khaldun brought to the attention of the world that “Physical circumstances and the environment are subject to changes that affect later generations; they do not necessarily remain unchanged.” (Ref: Muqaddimah. Page 173.) Centuries before Charles Darwin, Ibn Khaldun highlighted the significance of environmental changes and their impact on later generations, stating that "Physical circumstances and the environment are subject to changes that affect later generations; they do not necessarily remain unchanged." (Reference: Muqaddimah, Page 173). Ibn Khaldun's recognition of the dynamic nature of environmental factors and their influence on the evolution of species demonstrates his early insights into the concept of environmental adaptation and change, foreshadowing later theories of evolution. Molecular Biology of Ibn Khaldun According to Ibn Khaldun, species are not fixed but are subject to changes in response to their environment. He believed that the physical characteristics of organisms are determined by their "essence." Ibn Khaldun unriddled that the active nature (Kiyan) has the ability to generate substances and change essences, leading to a continuous transformation of essences in a natural order of ascent and descent (Ref: Muqaddimah.Vol.3, page 238). He described the evolution of species as a result of modifications in essence (genes) by nature: "The essences at the end of each particular stage of the worlds are by nature prepared to be transformed into the essence adjacent to them. This is evident in the transition from simple material elements to plants, and from plants to animals. Monkeys, for example, with their combination of cleverness and perception, are in a state of preparedness to transform into humans, who possess the ability to think and reflect. This readiness for transformation at each stage of existence is what we refer to when discussing the interconnectedness of different species“ (Ref: Muqaddimah. JVol.2. Page 422-423). If Ibn Khaldun were writing today, he might replace the term "essences" with "genome" or "DNA." He would likely express the idea as follows: "Nature prepares the genome (essence) of species to be transformed into the genome (essence) of adjacent species." Similarly, instead of stating that species are "transformed into the next stage by nature," he might say: "Gradual evolution can be explained by small genetic changes (mutations) within the species and the organization of this genetic variation through natural selection." This modern reinterpretation aligns Ibn Khaldun's concepts with contemporary scientific understanding of genetics and evolution. Even though Ibn Khaldun accepted the nature’s evolutionary process, he complimented with the statement, “This is how God proceeds with His servants—and verily, you will not change God’s way,” (Ref: Muqaddimah, Vol.1.Page 173) ------ Ref: Ibn Khaldun, Abdul Rahman (1332 to 1406). Muqaddimah. Translated by Franz Rosenthal. Princeton University Press. 1980. ------ T.O. Shanavas is a native of Kerala, but is now based in the USA. He is the author of “Islamic Theory of evolution of Evolution The Missing Link Between Darwin and The Origin of Species.” Co-author of the book, And God Said, "Let There Be Evolution!": Reconciling The Book Of Genesis, The Qur'an, And The Theory Of Evolution. Edited by Prof. Charles M. Wynn and Prof. Arthur W. Wiggins. URL: https://newageislam.com/islamic-personalities/ibn-khaldun-creative-evolution-life/d/131943 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism

Humane Character-Building Lesson In Islam

By Kaniz Fatma, New Age Islam 18 March 2024 A Hadith Reads, “The Most Perfect Faith Among Muslims Is That Of The Person Who Has The Best Morals." Main Points: 1. The current Muslim culture is experiencing moral decline, uncertainty, fear, and anxiousness due to the potential for corrupt and vile Muslim characters to commit sins. 2. The Prophet's (PBUH) principles should guide us, but our values have deteriorated, leading to moral annihilation. 3. Practical guidelines for human behaviour and life are divided into sub-divisions such as worship, morality, social conduct, rights, obligations, culture, religion, and character building. 4. The Objective of Islamic Teachings is to create a society free from corruption and characterized by kindness, honesty, dependability, and respect. ------ Islam is an all-encompassing code of conduct that takes into account every facet of life. Belief and Practice are the two main tenets of Islam. Belief requires the acceptance of fundamental truths. The fundamental truths of faith include believing in Allah, believing in His messengers, believing in His holy books, believing in the Last Day, believing in life after death, believing in Tawhid (the oneness of God), believing in the messengers of Allah, etc. Practical guidelines for human behaviour and life, as well as the dos and don'ts of societal and individual existence, are included in the second section. This is further split up into sub-divisions such as worship, morality, social conduct, rights, obligations, culture, religion, and character building. Character building is the subject of this write-up. Islam lays a great emphasis on character building, with particular attention paid to the cultivation of traits like generosity, kindness, compassion, honesty, and humility. Character building is emphasised throughout the Quran and Sunnah, and is a fundamental aspect of day-to-day living. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is reported to have said, "I was sent to perfect the noble traits of character." (Al-Tabarani). In the teachings of the Prophet, it is recommended to elevate moral standards. But judging by the current state of affairs, it is clear that the main cause of man's problems in the world is his moral decline and character flaws. If a person's principles and character align with the teachings of Islam, they will be honoured in this life as well as the next. But our values have gotten so bad that we now live in a society where bad things like lying, cheating, and sly behaviour are commonplace. Our actions should inspire others. The moral breakdown, however, is that we feel humiliated since we currently find ourselves in the worst situation imaginable. The current culture is experiencing moral decline, uncertainty, fear, and anxiousness due to the potential for corrupt and vile Muslim characters to commit sins. The Prophet (pbuh) embodied the highest moral standard, and his principles should guide us. The moral code of Allah's prophet, the Qur'an, has influenced every person on the planet. However, we Muslims—the followers of the Prophet (peace be upon him)—are to blame for the moral decline in our society. The Quranic verses and hadiths stress the importance of acting with sincerity and abstaining from wickedness, backbiting and hypocrisy. The companions of the Prophet and infidels both used to praise the Prophet's morals before joining Islam. But since our values have deteriorated, we are now condemned on many fronts. Using the power that Allah has bestowed upon us, we ought to behave morally and virtuously, abstaining from immorality and misdirection. However, we are moving away from Allah due to our worldly and selfish ambitions, and we are on the path to moral annihilation. We can observe our attitude because we remember Allah when we are ill, lost, or facing difficulties, but we forget Him and disregard His instructions when our Almighty God makes things better. We are indeed so irresponsible that we are unable to develop ethically and prove that we are moral Muslims. The objective of Islamic teachings on morals and character building is to create a society free from corruption and characterized by kindness, honesty, dependability, and respect. It emphasizes personal growth and positive social impact, with individuals with good character serving as an example for others and the community benefiting from their positive influence. This approach promotes a fulfilling and meaningful life. Sincerity serves as the foundation for all good works and deepens one's relationship with Allah, making it an essential component of Islamic character development. Muslims are instructed to perform only for the pleasure of Allah, without thinking about gain or honour. Having a sound intellect is another key quality of a good Muslim. Islam views acquiring knowledge as a form of worship, and Muslims are urged to learn throughout their lives. People who possess wisdom, which stems from knowledge, can make informed decisions and lead fulfilling lives. Islam places great importance on virtues like gratitude, forgiveness, and patience. Sustaining perseverance in faith and weathering adversity both require patience. Remaining in good relationships requires forgiveness. To recognise life's blessings and acknowledge Allah as the source of them, one must be grateful. Islam emphasizes character building as a key to personal growth and a fulfilling life. It is not enough to merely assert faith in Islam. Besides the expression of certainty of faith in Allah and his prophet, every Muslim and every citizen are required to build high character. Islam encourages excellence in all aspects of life, including character, and sincere efforts to become the best version of oneself, setting an example for others and contributing to a healthy community. Morality is the key to identifying a Muslim. He is unfit to be referred to as a Muslim if he lacks morality. It is not feasible for a Muslim to profess faith and lack morals at the same time. The holy Quran attests to the fact that our beloved Prophet is the greatest example of the best morality, as follows: Allah says to his Prophet, “You are certainly on the most exalted standard of moral excellence.” (68:4) And why shouldn't this be the case, given that his mission was to correct individuals and instil good morals through education and training? The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is reported to have said, "I was sent to perfect the noble traits of character." (Al-Tabarani). The Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) is reported to have said, "The most perfect faith among Muslims is that of the person who has the best morals." Another hadith reads: "The best among you is that which is best among you in terms of morals." ----- Kaniz Fatma is a classic Islamic scholar and a regular columnist for New Age Islam. URL: https://newageislam.com/islam-spiritualism/humane-character-building-lesson/d/131942 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism

Irrationalities In Faith: Evolve. Evolve. Evolve

By Sumit Paul, New Age Islam 18 March 2024 "Whether Adam And Eve Existed Is Not Important. What's Much More Important Is The Confirmation That The Human Brain Is Still So Underdeveloped As To Believe In Adam, Eve, Angels, Fairies, Jinns Or Genies. These Are All Figments Of Imagination Along With Mankind's Biggest Fabrication, God...." Maurice Bloch, an anthropologist at the London School of Economics The genetic variation we see in humans today provides no positive evidence whatsoever that we trace our ancestry exclusively from a single couple. Adam and Eve is actually a Semitic concoction. In other words, it's a religious belief in all three Semitic faiths, viz, Judaism, Christianity and Islam. But the majority of Orthodox Jews do not take this story literally but understand it as an allegory expressing the idea that we are all related and that we are created in the image of God—in the spiritual, not physical, sense. Even some Jews who believe that the Torah represents the word of God believe that the story was given to us as a teaching device, not literal history. It's a myth told by primitive people, the same as the Greeks believing that lightning was Zeus' thunderbolt, or the Iroquois believing that the earth is all on the back of a giant turtle. It was meant metaphorically. ----------------------------------------------------------- Also Read: The Genetic Bottlenecks & Adam: Prophet Adam (s)‘s Role in Human History ----------------------------------------------------------- The problem with (religious) humans is that they don't understand the language of allegories, metaphors, insinuations and symbols, all the scriptures are rife with. They're literalists. Only a primitive brain continues to believe in all sorts of porcine turds that religions and scriptures have to offer. We talk about cognitive skills but do we really apply self-reflection, logical reasoning, abstract and critical thinking, introspection and mental arithmetic? If we can apply these skills to other aspects of our life, why don't we apply them to understand religions, books and esoteric beliefs? A man can be highly educated with a scientific background but his scientific temperament vanishes the moment he starts justifying the irrationalities in his faith. An uneducated yokel believing in Adam, Eve, Hanuman, Demons, Satan etc. is perfectly justifiable because his brain is not developed. But 'educated' people believing in these fables is an insult to human intelligence. Study Genetics, Human Evolution, Mutation and Anthropology. You'll get answers to all your doubts and queries without ever bringing in Adam and Eve. Lastly, in a lighter vein, if Adam and Eve are mankind's common ancestors, aren't we all offspring of the same parents? Then, aren't humans have been indulging in incest right from the beginning of human civilization? Just curious. Follow the advice of Jiddu Krishnamurthy, " Evolve. Evolve. Evolve. Humans are still in the gutter....." when a famous doctor from Madras (sorry, no Chennai) asked Jiddu what should humans do during one of his Madras lectures in the early sixties. ----- A regular columnist for New Age Islam, Sumit Paul is a researcher in comparative religions, with special reference to Islam. He has contributed articles to the world's premier publications in several languages including Persian. URL: https://newageislam.com/spiritual-meditations/irrationalities-faith-evolve/d/131941 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism

Saturday, March 16, 2024

Bhagavad Gita and the Quran: A Comparative Exploration Unveiling Spiritual Wisdom Across Traditions

By Grace Mubashir, New Age Islam 16 March 2024 A Muslim Reads Gita And Quran To Find Commonalities In The Spiritual Domain ----- Introduction: In the vast tapestry of world religions, two monumental texts stand out as guiding lights for millions: the Bhagavad Gita and the Quran. Both texts hold profound significance within their respective traditions – Hinduism and Islam – offering insights into the nature of existence, human conduct, and the divine. Despite originating in different cultural contexts and addressing diverse theological concerns, the Bhagavad Gita and the Quran share a common purpose: to impart spiritual wisdom and guide adherents towards a life of virtue and enlightenment. Origin and Context: The Bhagavad Gita, often referred to simply as the Gita, forms a part of the Indian epic Mahabharata, composed over two millennia ago. Set amidst the battlefield of Kurukshetra, the Gita unfolds as a dialogue between Prince Arjuna and Lord Krishna, his charioteer and divine guide. It addresses Arjuna's moral dilemma about participating in a righteous war and delves into profound philosophical teachings on duty (dharma), righteousness (Dharma), and the nature of the self (atman). In contrast, the Quran is considered the verbatim word of God as revealed to the Prophet Muhammad over a period of 23 years, starting in 610 CE. It emerged in the Arabian Peninsula, a region marked by tribal conflict, social stratification, and religious diversity. The Quranic revelations provided guidance to the Muslim community (Ummah) in matters of faith, ethics, and governance, establishing a comprehensive framework for individual and communal life. Themes and Teachings: Both the Bhagavad Gita and the Quran explore fundamental existential questions and offer guidance for navigating the complexities of human existence. Central themes in the Gita include the concept of duty without attachment (Nishkama Karma), the path of devotion (Bhakti Yoga), and the realization of the self through selfless action (Karma Yoga). Krishna's teachings emphasize the importance of performing one's duty with detachment, surrendering the fruits of action to the divine, and cultivating a profound connection with the universal consciousness. Similarly, the Quran addresses themes of monotheism (Tawhid), prophethood, divine justice, and the importance of righteous conduct (Taqwa). It emphasizes the oneness of God (Allah) and the submission of the human will to divine guidance (Islam). The Quranic teachings advocate compassion, justice, and humility, urging believers to uphold ethical principles in all aspects of life and to strive for spiritual purification and moral excellence. Concept of God: One of the central differences between the Bhagavad Gita and the Quran lies in their respective conceptions of the divine. In Hinduism, the concept of God is multifaceted, encompassing both personal and impersonal manifestations. Lord Krishna, as depicted in the Gita, represents the Supreme Being (Brahman) incarnated in human form to guide humanity towards liberation (Moksha). While Krishna emphasizes devotion and surrender to the personal aspect of God, the Gita also acknowledges the formless, transcendent aspect of the divine. Conversely, the Quran presents a monotheistic conception of God as absolute and indivisible. Allah is described as the Creator of the heavens and the earth, the sustainer of all existence, and the ultimate judge of human deeds. Islamic theology emphasizes the transcendence and sovereignty of God, rejecting any notion of incarnation or anthropomorphic representation. Muslims are called to worship Allah alone, without associating partners or intermediaries. Ethical and Moral Guidelines: Both the Bhagavad Gita and the Quran provide ethical frameworks to guide human conduct and promote virtuous living. The Gita emphasizes the importance of righteous action performed in accordance with one's duty and role in society. It encourages individuals to act selflessly, without attachment to the results of their actions, and to cultivate virtues such as compassion, integrity, and equanimity. The concept of Svadharma, or one's own duty, underscores the significance of fulfilling one's responsibilities with sincerity and dedication. Similarly, the Quran lays down moral injunctions and ethical principles to govern human behaviour. It prohibits actions such as theft, murder, adultery, and dishonesty, while enjoining acts of charity, kindness, and justice. The Quranic teachings emphasize the importance of sincerity (Ikhlas) in worship, honesty in dealings, and compassion towards others, regardless of their social status or religious affiliation. Muslims are called to uphold the highest standards of morality and integrity in all spheres of life, striving to emulate the exemplary character of the Prophet Muhammad. Path to Salvation: The Bhagavad Gita and the Quran offer distinct paths to spiritual realization and ultimate salvation. In Hinduism, the concept of Moksha, or liberation from the cycle of birth and death (Samsara), is central to the teachings of the Gita. Arjuna is exhorted to transcend his ego (Ahamkara) and realize his true identity as the eternal self (Atman), which is identical to the Supreme Self (Brahman). The Gita presents various paths to Moksha, including the path of knowledge (Jnana Yoga), the path of devotion (Bhakti Yoga), and the path of selfless action (Karma Yoga), each suited to the temperament and inclinations of the seeker. In Islam, salvation is attained through faith (Iman) and righteous deeds (Amal). The Quran emphasizes the belief in one God, submission to His will, and obedience to His commandments as the prerequisites for salvation. Muslims are called to perform acts of worship, such as prayer (Salah), fasting (Sawm), charity (Zakat), and pilgrimage (Hajj), as expressions of their devotion and gratitude towards Allah. The Quranic concept of accountability (Yawm al-Qiyamah) underscores the importance of leading a righteous life and seeking forgiveness for one's sins, with the hope of attaining paradise (Jannah) in the Hereafter. Conclusion: In conclusion, the Bhagavad Gita and the Quran stand as timeless monuments of spiritual wisdom, offering profound insights into the nature of reality, the purpose of life, and the path to salvation. While rooted in different cultural and religious traditions, these sacred texts share common themes and ethical principles that resonate across humanity. Whether through the teachings of Krishna on duty and devotion or the revelations of Allah on faith and righteousness, the Gita and the Quran continue to inspire seekers of truth and seekers of God, guiding them on their journey towards enlightenment and divine realization. ----- A regular columnist for NewAgeIslam.com, Mubashir V.P is a PhD scholar in Islamic Studies at Jamia Millia Islamia and freelance journalist. URL: https://newageislam.com/interfaith-dialogue/bhagavad-gita-quran-comparative--spiritual-traditions/d/131932 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism

The Genetic Bottlenecks & Adam: Prophet Adam (s)‘s Role in Human History

By T.O. Shanavas, New Age Islam 16 March 2024 Therefore, The Survival Of Humanity From Just Two Ancestors, Adam And Eve, Is Considered Implausible Within The Context Of Our Current Understanding Of Genetic Bottlenecks And Their Impact On Population Viability. Based On The Evidence Given Adam And Eve Cannot Be Considered As Biological Parents Of Humanity ------- The traditional Islamic belief posits that Adam and Eve (Hawwa) were the first humans from whom all human beings descend, a concept derived from the Quranic verse 4:1. This verse emphasizes for most Muslims the creation of humanity from a pair of human--Adam and Eve, from whom men and women were spread across the earth. But scientific evidence challenges this notion. A genetic or population bottleneck occurs when a significant environmental event—such as famine, earthquakes, or diseases—drastically reduces the size of a population. This reduction can lead to a decrease in genetic diversity, as the surviving population has fewer variations in its gene pool. A population with limited genetic diversity is more susceptible to challenges such as diseases, environmental changes, and reproductive failures, because it lacks the genetic variance necessary to adapt and overcome these obstacles. Consequently, the survival and health of the population are compromised, with its viability potentially reduced by 50% or more. Over time, the continuous decline in species vigour due to these factors can lead to extinction. Small and isolated populations, in particular, face severe risks due to their lack of genetic diversity. In such groups, genetic diseases become more common as a result of inbreeding, and the population's genetic vulnerability is exacerbated by the absence of new genetic material. This combination of factors significantly increases the likelihood of extinction. Evidence of genetic bottlenecks can be observed across various animal and human studies and showcasing how such events affect population extinction. To quote few examples: The extinction of the Tasmanian Aboriginals as a distinct community was not directly due to genetic bottlenecks. Instead, their tragic demise resulted primarily from European colonization in the 19th century, which brought about disease, violence, and displacement. The introduction of new diseases to which the indigenous population had no immunity, combined with the policy of European colonizers that forcibly removed individuals from their lands, significantly reduced their numbers. The last full-blooded Tasmanian Aboriginal were Truganini (1812–1876) and Fanny Cochrane Smith (1834–1905). Another example involves the Ashkenazi Jewish population, which has experienced several genetic bottlenecks over the centuries, notably during the medieval period in Europe. These bottlenecks have led to a higher prevalence of certain genetic diseases within the population, such as Tay-Sachs disease, Gaucher disease, and familial dysautonomia, Spinal Muscular Atrophy, Canavan Disease, Fanconi Anemia, Niemann-Pick Disease, Bloom Syndrome, Mucolipidosis IV, and other diseases due to the founder effect where a small gene pool led to the propagation of specific genetic mutations. At one time of their history Ashkenazi Jews population was reduced to just 350 people. Later population increased due to outside community marriages, medical advancement of survival and other factors. Applying this concept of genetic bottlenecks to the human species, the notion of the entire human race descending from just two individuals—Adam and Eve—poses a challenge from a genetic perspective. Starting with such a minimal population would result in an extreme bottleneck, where genetic variation is almost non-existent. According to the principles of population genetics, this scenario would likely have led to the extinction of the human species due to the severe limitations it imposes on genetic diversity and the ability to adapt to environmental changes and diseases. Therefore, the survival of humanity from just two ancestors, Adam and Eve, is considered implausible within the context of our current understanding of genetic bottlenecks and their impact on population viability. Based on the evidence given Adam and Eve cannot be considered as biological parents of humanity, but as spiritual parents and prophet of Islam who drew human species from animality to humanity guiding with Islamic ethics and social order. For the validation for Adam and Eve as spiritual parents, not biological parents, please read the following New Age Articles: 1. Adam and Eve: The Spiritual, Not Biological, Parents of Human Species 2. The Creation of Adam and Human Species: A New Study 3. The Quran and the Creation/Evolution of Human Beings 4. Divine Mercy and Qur’anic Definition of Islam, Muslim and Al- Momineen 5. The Creation/Evolution Of Human Species ------ T.O. Shanavas is a native of Kerala, but is now based in the USA.He is the author of “Islamic Theory of evolution of Evolution The Missing Link Between Darwin and The Origin of Species.” Co-author of the book, And God Said, "Let There Be Evolution!": Reconciling The Book Of Genesis, The Qur'an, And The Theory Of Evolution. Edited by Prof. Charles M. Wynn and Prof. Arthur W. Wiggins. URL: https://newageislam.com/islam-science/genetic-bottlenecks-adam-prophet-human-history/d/131931 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism

Ghazwa-e-Hind and the Mischief of Evil Elements

By Dr. Khwaja Iftikhar Ahmed, Tr. New Age Islam Translated into English by Ghulam Ghaus Siddiqi, New Age Islam 16 March 2024 Ghazwa-e-Hind Fatwa Controversy and Resolved Plans Main Points: 1. The controversy revolves around a fatwa published on Darul Uloom Deoband's website, which focuses on the Ghazwa-e-Hind. 2. Ghazwa is a term used to describe a war led by the Prophet (peace be upon him) during his lifetime. 3. The term "Ghazwa" was not used to describe conflicts or battles during the reign of the four caliphs or the Rightly-Guided Caliphate. 4. From 711 to 1857, Muslims ruled throughout India, but all conflicts were referred to as wars rather than Ghazwa. 5. The first Caliph, Abu Bakr Siddiq, burned 100,000 hadiths that might have incited conflict or insurrection within the Ummah. 6. Hadiths related to the Ghazwa-e-Hind are included in the category of weak hadiths. 7. Scholars of Deoband believe that the attack on Sindh in 71 by Muhammad bin Qasim was the Ghazwa-e-Hind. 8. The author requests that the Deoband authorities formally adhere to their code of conduct and add explanatory notes to the 2008 fatwa to completely cut the root of the Fitna. 9. The author demands that the religious establishment take a cooperative stance and present a commentary, description, and interpretation that addresses all weak hadiths and war verses found in the Holy Quran. ----- Before going into great detail about the controversy surrounding a fatwa posted on the website of Darul Uloom Deoband, it is important to understand the ground realities and problems, such as peace, reconciliation, love and hate, war and strife, cruelty and justice, exploitation, and the rise and fall of society, to comprehend human psychology, social character, intellectual dimensions, and its positive and negative effects on the civilized world. The truth is that every circumstance has an impact on human nature, development, and trends that result from it. This impact extends far beyond the realms of politics, diplomacy, and conflict resolution, influencing everything from individual life to collective and institutional life. Given the intricacies involved and the broader framework of culture, sociology, and human psychology, it appears that these elements will always have an impact on every aspect of life! Various apostate and accursed circles continue their four-way disgusting sequence of filthy allegations against Islam, Muslims, and the honourable Prophet (peace be upon him) today. Despite everything that has happened, praise be to Allah, the spread of Islam and its acceptance and popularity are also proceeding apace. Not just in the developed world, but across all continents, Islam is the most populous and the fastest-spreading religion. These findings and endorsements are not mine; rather, they are others'! In such a scenario, inside the framework of our country, the subject of Ghazwa-e-Hind is turning into a shared source of cruelty, animosity, and mistrust between Muslims and Hindus, and the rumours propagated about it are serving to deepen the divide. The present dispute, as previously mentioned, concerns the specifics of a fatwa about the Ghazwa-e-Hind published on the Darul Uloom Deoband website. In answering the query, it merely lists a small number of hadiths that are relevant to this subject. By the way, this requires further clarification! This relates to a fatwa from 2008, but the dispute has been brought up in 2024. A genius has no trouble understanding the backdrop! In actuality, answering the question with a mere quotation from a hadith would not be sufficient to eradicate temptation. This helped to stoke the Fitna. It is insufficient to stop the temptation of evildoers to simply state that certain hadiths are weak and that their chain of transmission is unstable, even though this is true to the extent indicated by the index. First: Ghazwa is the name given to a war led by the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) during his lifetime, and he personally participated in it. This is a very important thing for readers to remember. Second: The use of this term [i.e. Ghazwa] was abandoned after the demise of the Prophet (peace be upon him). History is full of wars, battles, and armed confrontations. The brutality, persecution, and injustice that took place in the Karbala field, primarily targeting the Ahl-e-Bayt, the family of the Prophet (peace be upon him), who became martyrs and included defenceless children among them, is referred to as the Battle of Karbala, not Ghazwa! Third: There is not a single instance of the term "Ghazwa" being used to describe the conflicts or battles that took place during the reign of the four caliphs or the Rightly-Guided Caliphate. Fourth: The era of the rightly-guided caliphate practically ended with the demise of Hazrat Ali (may Allah be pleased with him). Monarchy and dictatorship took its place. The Ottoman Empire, which ruled over two-thirds of the world for several hundred years, was referred to as the Caliphate. However, Muhammad bin Qasim did not establish the Caliphate when he invaded India in 711 and ruled there until 713. Fifth: From 711 until 1857, Muslims ruled throughout India. Rulers included Arabs, Afghans, Turks, Mughals, and Muslims from Iran. However, no one had the intention of establishing a caliphate or spreading the religion or creating an Islamic State, and all of the conflicts that occurred during this time were referred to as wars rather than Ghazwa. It is necessary to understand the meaning and application of Daif Hadith in the context of Ghazwa-e-Hind. The first Caliph, Abu Bakr Siddiq (may God be pleased with him), is reported to have burned 100,000 hadiths that might have incited conflict or insurrection within the Ummah or led the Ummah to become increasingly divided if any of them had been interpreted incorrectly. Despite this precautionary measure, there are still a lot of differences and conflicting interpretations today. According to the strict inclusion and acceptance criteria outlined in Asmaa ur-Rijaal, also known as the Science of the Narrators, hadiths that lack certainty, reliability, and authenticity in their narration or narrators were either rejected by jurists or retained as weak hadiths. All hadiths related to the Ghazwa-e-Hind are included in this category. It is imperative, therefore, to adhere to the hadiths that the jurists agree upon rather than weak traditions. In this regard, Hazrat Abu Huraira (may Allah be pleased with him) who is a great companion and a credible narrator, is reported to have said to the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him), “Would that I had lived to witness the Ghazwa-e-Hind; then I too would have been numbered among the martyrs”. In this context, it becomes evident that the Ghazwa-e-Hind period is over and will not happen again if you consider two factors: the Messenger of Allah's glorious life and his demise. Consequently, the idea of the Ghazwa-e-Hind is no longer relevant! Keep in mind that our Master Prophet said, “The scent of Heaven comes from Hind”. Given that 170 million Muslims are living in this region, this is, in my opinion, not less than a Ghazwa terminologically speaking! The second point to consider in this regard is the interpretation (assumption) held by the scholars of Deoband, which holds that the attack on Sindh in 71 by Muhammad bin Qasim was the Ghazwa-e-Hind, and it has already happened. Nonetheless, several authoritative groups belonging to various schools of thought have some reservations over the stance of Darul Uloom. As a hypothesis, even if it is accepted, this Ghazwa has already occurred. When it comes to fatwas, Darul Uloom Deoband and its Darul Ifta pay particular attention to interpretation and specificity. The delicate nature of the issue necessitated further explanation. Given that Islam, Muslims, and Muslim society are being targeted by evil elements, that Hindu-Muslim hatred is being fuelled in the nation, and that hatred towards us is deeply ingrained in the minds of the majority, we respectfully request that the Deoband authorities formally adhere to their code of conduct and add explanatory notes to the 2008 fatwa in order to completely cut the root of this Fitna. I would like to make some demands of those elders and authorities that have a direct bearing on the teachings of Islam, the Quran, Hadith, and Islamic jurisprudence. The religious establishment must now take a cooperative stance. In front of the modern criticisms, it is essential to present a commentary, description, and interpretation that addresses all the weak hadiths and the war verses found in the Holy Quran. Simultaneously, most of the brothers and compatriots of the country harbour silent reservations about these issues. However, deep down, this silent mistrust is forming a raging tempest that might someday erupt into lava. May Allah forbid this from occurring! However, the likelihood cannot be ruled out! I am merely cautioning; I am not threatening. The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) is the one to whom all Muslims must answer! In order to clear up the problem on the big picture, everyone must come up in regards to performing Fard-e-Kifaya [an obligation that must be discharged by the Muslim community as a whole]. ------ Urdu Article: Ghazwa-e-Hind and the Mischief of Evil Elements غزوہ ہند اور شرپسند عناصر کی فتنہ گری URL: https://newageislam.com/islam-politics/ghazwa-hind-mischief-evil/d/131930 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism

My Take On Pakistani Muslims

By Sumit Paul, New Age Islam 16 March 2024 The article on Pakistani Muslims has amused me no end. I've been to Pakistan a number of times and I've Pakistani Muslims friends living in the UK, US and all parts of the world. But I'm sad to state that even those Pakistani Muslims, living in the western world, drawing fat salaries as IT professionals and doing other high-profile jobs, have also retained their Pakistani mindset. Agreed, not all Pakistani Muslims behave like morons, most of them still behave in a weirdly enthusiastic manner when it comes to Islam and following its tenets. Did you know that the legendary Rafi's two immortal numbers aren't officially played on Radio Pakistan? Why? Because the songs have the 'banned' benediction Khuda Hafiz which has been replaced with the most atrocious 'Allah Hafiz.' Those songs are, "Iss Rang Badalti Duniya Mein Insaan Ki Neeyat Theek Nahin" (Film: Rajkumar, Lyricist: Hasrat Jaipuri, Music: Shankar-Jaikishan, singer: Rafi, 1964) and the second number is: Tum Jis Pe Nazar Dalo, Uss Dil Ka Khuda Hafiz (Film: Yeh Raaste Hain Pyaar Ke, Lyricist: Rajinder Krishna Duggal, Music: Ravi Shankar Sharma, Singer: Rafi, 1963). Khuda being a Persian word and used by Shia Muslims, Pakistanis replaced it with Allah Hafiz during Zia Ul-Haq's religiously suffocating regime when a female TV announcer used the bizarre term Allah Hafiz way back in 1984. That now even a majority of stupid Sunnis in India also say Allah Hafiz in lieu of Khuda Hafiz is a different story and I'll write about it in a separate piece. Coming back to the story of banning these innocuous songs in Pakistan, fortunately Khuda Hafiz stanza in the song "Iss Rang Badalti Duniya Mein" comes in the end: Main Kaise Khuda Hafiz Kah Doon, Mujh Ko Toh Kisi Ka Yaqeen Nahin/ Chhup Jaao Humari Aankhon Mein Bhagwan Ki Neeyat Theek Nahin. So, this song is occasionally played in Pakistan sans its last stanza! Otherwise also, the last stanza is blasphemous (!) according to Pakistani Muslims! Bhagwan Ki Neeyat Theek Nahin! Oh no! What a sacrilegious statement! Remove this objectionable Antara forthwith! But unfortunately, in the song, "Tum Jis Pe Nazar Daalo," Khuda Hafiz appears at the very beginning. So, ban it completely. This is how an average Pakistani behaves under the toxic influence of distorted Islam. The problem is that Indian Muslims have also begun to behave like their Pakistani counterparts. Lack of education and an overwhelming influence of all religious preachers have contributed to making Pakistanis a butt of ridicule even in Islamic countries. Muslims of Pakistan need to put more focus on developing scientific temperament by listening to the likes of Pervez Hoodbhoy, Pakistani nuclear scientist, author, media commentator and activist rather than follow the fatwas of its uneducated and imbecile preachers like Mufti Tariq Masood and Maulana Tariq Jamil (a controversial preacher from the Tablighi Jamaat) who've extremely popular channels on YouTube and are followed by scores of brainless subcontinental Muslims. ----- A regular columnist for New Age Islam, Sumit Paul is a researcher in comparative religions, with special reference to Islam. He has contributed articles to the world's premier publications in several languages including Persian. URL: https://newageislam.com/spiritual-meditations/pakistani-muslims-khuda-allah-hafiz/d/131929 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism

Friday, March 15, 2024

Dr Rahi Masoom Raza: The Creator Of Mahabharata’s Chaste Hindi

By Sumit Paul, New Age Islam 15 March 2024 Many readers are aware as to who wrote the immensely popular Sanskritised Hindi dialogues of B R Chopra's famous serial 'Mahabharata' (1988-1990). For those who're not aware, well, Dr Rahi Masoom Raza penned the dialogues of 'Mahabharata', which became so popular that viewers across the country started speaking that kind of Kintu/Parantu Hindi. All the dialogues were written in quaintly chaste Hindi. But did you know that Dr Rahi Masoom Raza initially declined B R Chopra's request to write the dialogues for the tele-serial 'Mahabharata'? Yes, Raza politely said 'no' to B R Chopra. Yet, Chopra announced Raza's name as a dialogue writer! Dr Rahi Masoom Raza passed away on March 15, 1992 ------ When people came to know of this, they wrote to Chopra, "Saare Hindu Mar Gaye Hain Kya Jo Aap Ek Musalmaan Se 'Mahabharata' Ke Samvaad Likhwa Rahe Hain? " (Have all Hindus died that you've chosen a Muslim to pen the dialogues of 'Mahabharata' ?). B R Chopra, sent all those abusive letters to Dr Raza. When Raza realized that people had reservations about a Muslim writing the dialogues of 'Mahabharata', he took it as a challenge and accepted Chopra's request. "Main Iss Mulk Ka Hissa Hoon. Hindi, Urdu, Sanskrit Zabanein Meri Ragon Mein Daudti Hain " (I'm a part of this country. Hindi, Urdu and Sanskrit are in my blood). Needless to say, the rest is history. He was a true-blue Hindustani, nay a human, at heart. Raza would often say,"Main Ne Khud Ko Kabhi Kisi Mazhab Se Nahin Joda. Insaaniyat Mera Mazhab Hai. Main Faqat Ek Insaan Hoon" (I've never tied myself to any faith. My religion is humanity and I'm but a human). What Raza wrote in 'Mahabharata' is still a benchmark. In these communal times, one must remember that in the tele-serial 'Mahabharata', the real name of the man who essayed the role of Arjun is Feroz Khan and the actress who acted so well in the role of Kunti is Nazneen, who has become a recluse and there's not much information available about her. The relevance of these 'anomalies' increases all the more in these times, when one has to emblazon one's religion on his/her forehead to survive in this increasingly intolerant country. Agreed, there also existed religiosity and fanaticism 35 years ago when 'Mahabharata' was being made because Chopra had to face people's jibes when he decided to rope in Raza as a dialogue writer, but the masses were not so religiously morbid as they're today. I often wonder, had India of the 80s been as religiously touchy as it's today, would the hardcore Hindus, political outfits, Sanatanis and all such lumpen elements have let Raza write for Mahabharata and Feroz Khan and Nazneen enact the roles of Arjun and Kunti? Just imagine, Arjun and Kunti are (actually) Muslims as per their faith! There would have been a nationwide uproar: Sanatan Dharm Bhrasht Ho Gaya (The Sanatan Dharm has been desecrated) ! Got to say, these are unthinkably bad times to be in! Anyway, Raza's contributions become even more remarkable in our times. He shuffled off this mortal coil on March 15, 1992. Good that he departed a few months prior to Babri mosque's unfortunate demolition on December 6, 1992 that changed the Hindu-Muslim equation once and for all. A sensitive soul that he was, he too would have had to go through all the pains and angst, the Muslims in India had to undergo following Babri mosque's defilement by the Kar Sevaks and Hindu vandals. ----- A regular columnist for New Age Islam, Sumit Paul is a researcher in comparative religions, with special reference to Islam. He has contributed articles to the world's premier publications in several languages including Persian. URL: https://newageislam.com/spiritual-meditations/rahi-masoom-raza-creator-mahabharata-hindi/d/131926 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism

‘Muslim Card’: AIADMK Will Remain Custodian Of Muslims In Tamil Nadu

By Syed Ali Mujtaba, New Age Islam 15 March 2024 The All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam has reiterated that the AIADMK will remain the custodian of Muslims in Tamil Nadu, said party general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami here on Wednesday. Addressing an ‘Iftar’ function, organized by his party, Palaniswami, recalled the services rendered by the former Chief Minister J. Jayalalitha and said that the iconic leader of the AIADMK had always stood for the welfare of the Muslims and this policy will continue under him. The former Chief Minister also recalled that it was Jayalalitha who had first proposed the name of APJ Abdul Kalam for the post of President of India. Edappadi K Palaniswami, who became the general secretary of the AIADMK, after the death of party supremo, J Jayalalithaa and allied with the BJP in 2017, a move that saw the erosion of Muslim support for the AIADMK. The AIADMK, after ending its ties with the BJP in September 2023, is trying to resurrect the party from scratch. To regain the lost ground, the AIADMK is now playing the ‘Muslim card’ vociferously which constitutes about 6% of the votes in Tamil Nadu. When asked about his party’s stand on the Citizen Amendment Act (CAA), the law on Triple Talaq, and the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), Palaniswami said, “Our stand on these issues is explained clearly in our election manifesto of 2019. We are opposed to them as AIADMK is concerned over its long-term impact on the society.” Palaniswami also announced that the AIADMK will not form an electoral alliance with any of the national parties in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. He also dismissed the rumour that the third front led by the BJP may hurt the electoral prospects of the AIADMK-led front. He said, the talks with the DMDK and PMK are in the final stages and the details of it will be made public at an appropriate time. Tamil Nadu politics since 1916 has revolved around the Dravidian plank initiated by the Justice Party. This party rose into prominence in Tamil Nadu in opposition to Sanatan Dharma, Brahminical domination besides a host of other such things. The legacy of the Justice party is carried forward by the Dravidian parties including DMK, AIADMK, DMDK, and other such political parties. In recent years the BJP under the leadership of Narendra Modi has made an exorbitant use of money power to make a dent in Tamil Nadu. With the Governor leading the Hindutva bandwagon, and BJP leader K Annamalai, an ex-IPS officer leading the party from the front some unexpected development is expected in Tamil Nadu. This is said because there is crass use of money power is on display. A huge sum is spent on advertisements, billboards, and hoardings everywhere in the state, giving a semblance of appearance that the BJP is all set to dent the Dravidian fort. However, the Mega Opinion Poll conducted by Network18 has predicted that the DMK will lead the INDIA bloc to an impressive haul of 30 seats and may get a 51% vote share. The BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) may get 5 seats with a net vote share of 13%, while the AIADMK and allies will pick up 4 seats, and get around 17% of the votes share. The prediction of 5 seats given the Network18, seems to be doubtful. The picture on the ground zero is that the BJP has a contest on only two seats in Tamil Nadu, Kanyakumari and Vellore. It is likely it can be victorious on these two seats, maybe one, even may go blank, provided the contest is evenly fought. ------ Syed Ali Mujtaba is a journalist based in Chennai. URL: https://newageislam.com/current-affairs/muslim-card-aiadmk-custodian-muslims-tamil-nadu/d/131925 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism

Thursday, March 14, 2024

The Significance of Male Reformist Ijtihad on Gender Issues in Advancing Gender Affirmative Interpretations of Islam

By Adis Duderija, New Age Islam 14 March 2024 Historically, Gender-Affirmative Interpretations Were Often Dismissed By Conservative-Minded Male Scholars As Feminist Or Subjective Products Of Female Identity. However, Male Reformist Scholars Challenge This Narrative By Providing A Male Perspective On Gender Equality Within Islam. ------- The emergence of male reformist scholars engaging in ijtihad (independent reasoning) on gender issues within Islam holds profound significance for the acceptance and advancement of gender-affirmative interpretations of the faith. In this op-ed, we will explore the reasons why the male gender identity of these reformist ijtihadists matters, the collective nature of their efforts, their theoretical sophistication, insider engagement with tradition, global accessibility, and resonance with contemporary Muslim audiences. We will argue that these factors contribute to the potential impact and wider acceptance of gender-affirmative interpretations of Islam. Male Gender Identity and Credibility One of the notable aspects of the male reformist scholars’ ijtihad on gender issues is their gender identity. Historically, gender-affirmative interpretations were often dismissed by conservative-minded male scholars as feminist or subjective products of female identity. However, male reformist scholars challenge this narrative by providing a male perspective on gender equality within Islam. In traditional societies, religious authority has been predominantly associated with male figures, making the arguments put forth by these male reformists harder to dismiss. Their gender identity lends credibility to their perspectives, as they can navigate the patriarchal structures of Islamic scholarship and engage with a broader audience. Collective Effort and Credibility The collective nature of the male reformist scholars’ efforts significantly contributes to the impact of their work. It is not just a few isolated voices but a relatively large number of male scholars who are devoting their time and effort to foster gender equality-affirming interpretations of Islam. This collective effort enhances the credibility and influence of their arguments, distinguishing them from earlier male reformers of the twentieth century. Scholars such as Khaled Abou El Fadl , Muhammad Khalid Masud, Yousef Eshkevari ,Mohsen Kadivar and myself have made significant contributions to these discourses, amplifying the reach and influence of gender-affirmative interpretations of Islam. Theoretical Sophistication and Engagement with Tradition The male reformist scholars stand out due to their remarkable theoretical sophistication in engaging with the pre-modern Islamic tradition. Their work goes beyond superficial interpretations and offers robust and systematic approaches to gender issues. This level of scholarship adds substantial weight to their arguments, making them harder to dismiss or ignore. Moreover, these scholars have an intimate familiarity with the pre-modern Islamic hermeneutical, theological, ethical, and legal tradition. Many of them have undergone traditional Islamic education or have held high-ranking clerical positions. Their insider perspective enables them to engage with the tradition on its own terms, providing credibility and authority that cannot be easily dismissed by their traditionalist detractors. Global Accessibility and Muslim Audiences The impact of these reformist scholars extends beyond their scholarly contributions. Many of them reside in Western liberal democracies but write in major Islamic vernacular languages such as Arabic and Farsi, or their works are translated into these languages. This multilingual approach, coupled with the availability of their ideas through websites and publications, enhances the accessibility of their work to global Muslim audiences. This accessibility allows their gender equality-affirming hermeneutics to resonate with the lived realities and ethical sensibilities of contemporary Muslims, both male and female. Reconciling Lived Experiences with Religious Ideals Perhaps the most significant aspect of gender-affirmative Islamic hermeneutics is their potential to reconcile the lived experiences of contemporary Muslims with their desired religious ideals and norms. Unlike traditional interpretations, these hermeneutics acknowledge and address the gender-based realities of Muslims today. By doing so, they offer a path to bridge the gap between lived experiences and religious ideals, aligning with the ethical sensibilities of many contemporary Muslims. The rise of male reformist scholars engaging in ijtihad on gender issues heralds a significant milestone in the pursuit of gender equality within Islam. Their gender identity, collective efforts, theoretical sophistication, insider engagement with tradition, global accessibility, and resonance with contemporary Muslim audiences all contribute to the potential impact and wider acceptance of gender-affirmative interpretations of Islam. By advancing gender equality through their scholarship, these male reformist scholars are paving the way for a more inclusive and progressive understanding of Islam that aligns with the lived realities and ethical sensibilities of Muslims in the modern world. ----- A decades old patron of New Age Islam, Dr Adis Duderija is a Senior Lecturer in the Study of Islam and Society, School of Humanities, Languages and Social Science; Senior Fellow Centre for Interfaith and Intercultural Dialogue, Griffith University | Nathan | Queensland | Australia. His forthcoming books are ( co-edited)- Shame, Modesty, and Honora in Islam and Interfaith Engagement Beyond the Divide (Springer) This piece is based on authors academic paper that can be accessed here- https://www.academia.edu/43990448/Contemporary_Muslim_Male_Reformist_Thought_and_Gender_Equality_Affirmative_Interpretations_of_Islam URL: https://newageislam.com/ijtihad-rethinking-islam/male-reformist-ijtihad-gender-interpretations/d/131912 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism

Syrian And Lebanese Muslims Flabbergasted At The Religious Madness Of Pakistani Muslims

By Aziz Ali Daad, Tr. New Age Islam 14 March 2024 The Syrian Muslims celebrate Christmas and Easter Main Points: 1. In Syria, blasphemy killings are unheard of. 2. They sing songs in praise of Jesus Christ. 3. In Syria and Lebanon, killing for blasphemy is considered un-Islamic. ------ During my school days, I used to think that all the Muslims of the world are like Pakistani Muslims. But as I came into contact with Muslim and non-Muslim societies, I gradually realised that my perception was wrong. My perception about the Pakistani Muslims has drastically changed. I am compelled to say that nowhere in the world you will find crazy Muslims like the Pakistanis. I have not developed this opinion of Pakistanis as a result of occasional tours but as a result of my long stay in Lebanon and Syria and my exposure to other Muslim societies. I got an opportunity to observe their behaviour and to interact with the common people there. The most difficult task that I faced was to explain the Pakistani Islam and Muslims to them because the issues that were a matter of life and death to us had no importance with them. I will present some examples. A few weeks ago, I tried to explain to.my colleague that in Pakistan, we spent a lit of time and money to persuade the parents to allow their children, particularly, girls to get education. My Syrian colleague asked why the Pakistani parents needed to be convinced to educate their children. I replied that our countrymen are against education. He asked why? I replied that they say that education, particularly, girls' education was prohibited in Islam. For that reason, people even set schools on fire. He was flabbergasted and wondered what Islam it was. I had a tough time explaining to him the context. So I said I could not explain. He was surprised and said that it was strange that I could write about my country but could not explain it. Any way, before the civil war erupted, the literacy rate in Syria was 90 per cent and there was not much difference between the literacy of men and women. Co -education was common there. During a gossip with a friend in a famous cafe on a weekend, the issue of blasphemy came up. I told him about the blasphemy laws of my country and the killings of Muslims and non-Muslims over it. He was shocked. He wondered how, in the presence of the state, the people in the street could kill in the name of religion. Here in Syria Muslims live along with the followers of other religions but there are no Islamic laws like this. Indeed defaming other religions is prohibited and religion-based political parties are not allowed. I said that I could not explain this too. He said that in Syria, the imam of a mosque did not have the authority to issue fatwas and that the imam was an employee of the Waqf department of the government. Similarly, when the issue of honour killing came up during a conversation with a lady, she could not understand the legitimacy of the tradition. I was surprised to see Muslims celebrate Eid Milad al Majeed (Christmas) and Eid al Fasah (Easter).To be honest, at first I even doubted that they were Muslims in the first place because here they did not choke the roads and streets for Friday prayers. One could not make out who was going to offer Namaz and who was not. In our country, people keep announcing since the morning that we have to offer Friday Namaz. Similarly, people here do not understand how administering polio doses is linked to Islam. In short, I have not been able to explain the idiosyncrasies of the Pakistani Muslims to them On a Christmas in one December, an Arabic hymn sung by a Lebanese girl became viral. Many Arabs posted comments praising her voice and art. But those making hate-filled comments were only Pakistanis. A Lebanese acquaintance drew my attention to those comments. The comments reflected the ignorance and madness of Pakistani Muslims. In those comments, the Pakistani Muslims told the Arabs that the lady singer plagiarised the style of reciting the Quran. Sime others considered reciting Arabic hymns in a Christian festival a blasphemy against the Quran. The Arabs argued that Arabic was a language and not a religion and the Christians also spoke Arabic. Arab culture is their common legacy. The Pakistanis should know that Jesus is praised in Arabic in the birth place of Jesus, Bethlehem. The genre of the song is called Tarateel in Arabic. The Tarateel of the famous Lebanese romantic singer Firoze are very popular. But the Pakistani Muslims are not convinced. They curse the Arabs for their un-Islamic practices (Bid 'at). I, therefore, came to the conclusion that I will not be able to explain the Pakistani Islam and Muslims to the Muslims of the other parts of the world, leave aside non-Muslims. In fact, I feel ashamed of introducing myself as a Pakistani Muslim. Only Pakistanis can issue fatwas against the Arabs for the 'wrong use' of their own language Arabic. The devastating consequences of this madness are now evident. Earlier, we observed the rush of the Maulvis to the Halwa shops ( confectioneries), but now we see mad people gather on the use of the word 'Halwa'. The other day, we observed the replay of the scenes of the age of Jahiliyya when a crowd of religious fanatics surrounded a woman because her shirt had the word Halwa printed on it. No one bothered to read the word but issued a fatwa of blasphemy against the Quran. Fortunately, a brave lady police officer saved her. Even Abu Jahl will hide his face in shame at this show of ignorance by the Pakistani Muslims. Halwa in Arabic means sweet and pretty. Arabs are very fond of sweets. That's why in Damascus, sweets shops are found everywhere. Earlier the Pakistanis would go crazy after reading Kalima, now they go crazy after reading Halwa. In the video of the police station, the woman is visibly terrified and is apologising while the faces of the Maulvis sitting there betray the feeling of victory instead of guilt. Worse, one of the Maulvis asks the woman what her 'Firqa' (sect) was. I could visualise there not Islam but the Europe of the 15th century where the priests would interrogate women in the similar fashion and burn them alive. If this kind of Islam continues to flourish in Pakistan, then I am afraid, gradually Muslims will become extinct and only mullahs will be left there. According to Ibn Insha, today in Pakistan, people are not baptised in Islam but expelled from Islam. The version of Islam the Pakistanis have been presenting is very terrifying. It is devoid of any aesthetics. Islam without aesthetics is nothing. We should remember the hadith: 'God is beautiful and appreciates beauty.' In the Lahore incident, the woman's wearing the 'Halwa dress' was an act of spreading beauty. But the mind nurtured in the darkness of hatred hates everything that is beautiful. It loves not life and beauty but savagery and death. The society in which the desire of death is dominant devours its own citizens. That' s what is called Human Cannibalism This Pakistani mindset will put out every single light of rationality and wisdom and push the society into the abyss of darkness of ignorance. The 10th century bind but visionary poet Abul Ala Al Ma'arry once said: Men are of two kinds, One who have intellect but no Deen. The other who have Deen but no intellect. It is for you to decide to which category the Pakistani Muslims belong. ----- Courtesy: Hum Sab Pakistan. URL: https://newageislam.com/the-war-within-islam/syrian-lebanese-muslims-religious-pakistani/d/131911 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism

Muslims Celebrate Ramazan As Spiritual Discipline, Compassion And Means Of Salvation

By Safia Malik, New Age Islam 14 March 2024 This Is The Month When The Holy Qur'an Is Believed To Have Been Sent To Men And Women "As A Guide, A Means Of Guidance, And A Means Of Salvation." ----- Muslims consider Ramadan to be one of the most sacred times of the year. It is the ninth month of the Muslim calendar. This is the month when the Holy Qur'an is believed to have been sent to men and women "as a guide, a means of guidance, and a means of salvation." During this month, Muslims fast strictly from dawn to sunset. They are not allowed to eat or drink (even water) during the day. Fasting is a form of worship that helps people get closer to God, a form of spiritual discipline, and an act of compassion for those in need. Prayer and Iftar feast mark the end of every day’s fast. Visiting family and friends after Iftar is a tradition. Ramadan comes to an end, and Eid al-Fitr is celebrated in order to mark the end of fasting. It is a season when people come together for feasts and presents. In addition, it is a tradition to bestow unique presents upon the needy. Let us have a more detailed insight into everything connected with Ramadan, including the ones who are exempt from fasting and other cultural and religious practices typical of this month. What is Ramadan? First, it is important to review the definition of Ramadan so that one can understand the rules for Ramadan. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is believed to have received the Qur'an and the words of Allah (SWT) for the first time during Ramadan. Throughout the subsequent years, Ramadan revelations were disclosed to the Prophet (PBUH) in accordance with Sawm, the fourth pillar of Islam. In addition to observing Sawm, every Muslim must adhere to the five pillars of Islam, which are the core values of Islam. When translated into English, the word Sawm means fasting. Ramadan is the period during which this is done. What is The Date of Ramadan? The Ramadan is the Ninth Month of Islamic Calendar. Based on the lunar calendar, the dates of Ramadan in the Islamic calendar vary by approximately 10 days every year. Even though the dates of Ramadan fluctuate, Muslims always begin the fast between the sighting of the ninth and the tenth new moon. In some regions of the world, Ramadan might occur during the summer months and in others during the winter. What Are the Ways Muslims Celebrate Ramadan? It is customary for Muslims to fast between sunrise and sunset. By fasting, Muslims learn patience, mindfulness of the plight of the poor throughout the world, and devotion to their faith. In Ramadan, we eat two meals: a meal known as Iftar, which is eaten as soon as the sun sets, and a meal known as Suhoor, which is eaten before sunrise. The month of Ramadan is a time of giving up bad habits for Muslims. Ramadan is an opportunity for us to be closer to our Lord through prayers, good deeds, spending time with family and friends, and helping those in need. Ramadan is a time when we strive to read the full Qur'an, and men attend all prayers at the mosque during the month. Laylat al-Qadr is another night that occurs during Ramadan. Muslims believe that Laylat al-Qadr, the Night of Power, falls during one of the last ten nights of Ramadan. It is considered the night when Prophet Muhammad received the first verses of the Quran. Special prayers and acts of worship are performed during Laylat al-Qadr, as it is believed to be a night of great spiritual significance and divine blessings. A big celebration takes place after Ramadan, called Eid ul-Fitr. This is a festival in which we break our fast and give thanks to Allah for the strength he provided us during the previous month. What Can’t You Do During Ramadan? The goal of Ramadan is to fulfil the fourth pillar of Islam, Sawm. During the Holy Month, Muslims are prohibited from eating or drinking during daylight hours. Although this is undoubtedly the most important aspect of Ramadan, there are also several other things one should abstain from during this period, including: ● Using swear words ● Lying ● Arguments and fighting ● Participation in sexual activities In accordance with Ramadan's eating rules, food and drink are not permitted during daylight hours. During Ramadan, Muslims are not permitted to consume even water. In order to cleanse their minds and souls, Muslims must abstain from impure activities and thoughts. Ramadan’s eating rules allow you to devote considerably more time to the Quran, strengthen your relationship with Allah (SWT), and be empathetic towards those less fortunate. Does Everyone Observe Ramadan? In spite of the fact that Ramadan is a core component of Islam, it may not be possible for everyone to participate. Thus, there is a list of individuals who are exempt from fasting physically. The following are a few of them: ● The elderly ● People with fragile health ● People who are sick or taking medications for a medical condition ● Women who are pregnant ● Breastfeeding women A woman who menstruates during Ramadan must halt her fast, in addition to the above categories, and is considered to be legitimately exempt from continuing the fast should she menstruate. As well, Ramadan traveling rules permit individuals to pause their fast while they are traveling. Diverse Practices in Ramadan Worldwide Depending on the individual's beliefs, some may start and/or end Ramadan on dates that differ from others, mainly due to their belief in different sects. There may also be differences between interpretive schools regarding the start and end of fasting on a daily basis. This is why it is not uncommon for some Muslims to break their fast immediately following sundown, while others delay their break for up to 10 minutes or more. It is generally better not to ask individuals whether they are fasting since the reasons for not fasting may be very private and personal. As fast-breaking foods, dates and milk have religious roots; however, Ramadan cuisine is extremely varied culturally. In some cultures, the pre-dawn meal constitutes the largest and heartiest meal of the day, while others prefer lighter, fast-breaking meals. In other cultures, large, fast-breaking meals may only be observed before dawn. There is a culinary "nightlife" emerging in some contemporary cultures in which restaurants, cafes, and bars remain open throughout the night. Observances of Ramadan are also shaped by culture beyond fasting and breaking of fasts. For some, fasting may be their primary observance. Others may see it as a time to socialize, visit family and friends, and increase their worship activities, including prayer and recitation of the Qur'an. Both the manner and degree of observance exhibit significant differences. ● Ramadan presents different challenges to each individual. ● Fasting may be temporary or permanent for some people. ● It can be uncomfortable to ask someone if they are fasting for a variety of reasons. ● It is permissible to break one's fast in the event of a health emergency. What Happens if a Person Fails to Observe Fast? If you belong to one of the above groups, you are responsible for paying Fidya. If one cannot fast during Ramadan or misses a day or days during the month, it is suggested that one makes up the fast at a later time. People who are unable to make up their fast during the year may make a charitable donation in lieu of their Fidya. Fidya rates vary year to year based on the cost of basic staple foods but usually amount to about £5 per missed fast. In Fidya, one full day's worth of food is provided for one hungry person, and it should be paid before a missed fast or at any other time in Ramadan. When you intentionally break your fast during Ramadan and do not fall into one of the categories mentioned above, you must pay Kaffarah. The Kaffarah rate corresponds to the cost of feeding 60 people for every day missed. Fidya is £5 per missed Sawm day, so if a Muslim miss one without explanation, he or she must either pay £300 or fast for 60 days straight. Should you break your fast during these 60 days, you will need to start your Kaffarah again from the beginning. It is forbidden to make up any missed fasting days during Eid, regardless of whether you are required to pay Fidya or Kaffarah. There is no restriction on when you can make up the days, except on the occasion of Eid. What is Fitrana? Muslims must also make a charitable payment known as Fitrana if their food expenditures exceed their means. In the past, people have measured how much food they had beyond their means using a unit called 'Sa. An equivalent amount of this would be approximately 3 kg of basic staple foods such as wheat. In the time of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), at the beginning of Ramadan, those who had food beyond their means donated one ‘Sa to those in need. The Fitrana is now usually paid to a charity, such as Muslim Aid, which distributes food to those in need. Despite the slight differences from Ramadan's original history in Islam, it still carries forward the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) by giving to the less fortunate. Conclusion Ramadan is among the five pillars of Islam and is obligatory for Muslims to observe it to get closer to Allah and remain steadfast in their faith. The practices and rituals during this time contribute to a sense of community, self-discipline, and a deepening of faith. We hope you have learned everything there is to know about Ramadan and will teach it to others as well. ----- Safia Malik is an an experienced SEO optimised Content and Copy Writer. She contributed this article to newageislam.com. URL: https://newageislam.com/islam-spiritualism/ramazan-spiritual-discipline-compassion-salvation/d/131917 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism

Stephen William Hawking's God

By Sumit Paul, New Age Islam 14 March 2024 “When people ask me if a god created the universe, I tell them that the question itself makes no sense. Time didn’t exist before the big bang, so there is no time for god to make the universe in. It’s like asking directions to the edge of the earth; The Earth is a sphere; it doesn’t have an edge; so looking for it is a futile exercise. We are each free to believe what we want, and it’s my view that the simplest explanation is; there is no god. No one created our universe, and no one directs our fate. This leads me to a profound realization; There is probably no heaven, and no afterlife either. We have this one life to appreciate the grand design of the universe, and for that I am extremely grateful.” ― Stephen Hawking Stephen Hawking breathed his last on March 14 ----- It's not important to quote Stephen Hawking, the great theoretical and cosmologist, on the ever-inconclusive debate as to whether or not god does exist. What's important is to be inspired by his exemplary and indomitable spirit. Despite being severely disabled, he never believed that his condition was the curse of god or an outcome of bad karmas in the past life. He once said, " Once you remove god, fate, destiny, karma and all such obscure and unfounded elements from your life, you become wholly responsible for your life and actions. That's of paramount importance. Human life is an existential phenomenon, not a divine creation." He was a true Karmayogi, who lived his life without ever cursing, complaining or sulking. The believing masses ascribe their ill fate to god, fate and karmas. But individuals like Hawking never resort to cursing or complaining. Poona-based astrophysicist Jayant Vishnu Narlikar, who was Hawking's coeval at Cambridge, narrated an incident when a famous Christian evangelist met Hawking and suggested that Jesus would cure him if he accepted the 'son' of god as his 'saviour.' Hawking said, " So, your Jesus waits for acceptance to cure a person ! Please request him on my behalf to eradicate poverty, hunger and violence from the world. I'm happy with my wheelchair-bound existence." That evangelist never again pestered the legendary cosmologist. This is what we call courage of conviction. The great English astronomer Sir Fred Hoyle would often say, " I may be wrong but I've the courage to adhere to certain beliefs I'm convinced about." Hawking stuck to his atheism till the end and when he passed away on March 14, 2018 at the age of 76, he was a satisfied man in the sense that he didn't have to change his convictions regarding god's non-existence and the futility of fate. Only a man of his calibre can be so passionate, perceptive and precise about all cosmic phenomena without seeing 'god's hand' in them. But the frightened masses aren't so evolved like him, therefore, they still pray, nay beg, to a fictitious god and kill each other to prove that my god is better than yours, my faith is the only real faith and my book is the god's unaltered word. So damn primitivism that still eclipses human mind! Those who're further curious to know Hawking's godlessness, can refer to my article, Hawking’s Godlessness in TOI. By the way, today is Einstein's birth anniversary. He too never believed in a god described so foolishly, primitively and naively in all scriptures written by our troglodyte ancestors living in a bronze age. Believers argue that Einstein was a believer. What they don't understand is Einstein's perception of god which is so evolved and different. By god, he meant Truth: The sum total of Nature's Laws. That was god to him. His entire life was an endeavour to realize that Truth. If you want, you can read my write up, though I'm sure, the diehard believers will neither be convinced, nor will they be able to comprehend it as their brains are enslaved by the conventional faiths and an imaginary god: What Einstein Can Teach Theists And Atheists ----- A regular columnist for New Age Islam, Sumit Paul is a researcher in comparative religions, with special reference to Islam. He has contributed articles to the world's premier publications in several languages including Persian. URL: https://newageislam.com/spiritual-meditations/stephen-william-hawking-god/d/131910 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism

Wednesday, March 13, 2024

Majoritarian Nationalism – And Rational Thinking, Scientific Spirit

By Ram Puniyani, New Age Islam 13 March 2024 While Our Constitution Mandates The Promotion Of Scientific Temper, The Present Regime In Matters Of Policy-Making Is Bypassing The Rational Approach Not Only In Science Research And Education But Also In Matters Related To Social Policies. ------ Illustration: Pariplab Chakraborty/The Wire ------ With Hindu Nationalist BJP in the saddle of power from the last one decade there has been a deliberate promotion of a pattern of policy making in education, which is based more on faith and glorification of those aspects of the past which are not verified by reason. As such, the Indian past has seen a good development of rational thought in the past. Charvak contributed to rational philosophy while Charat and Aryabhata contributed to medicine and astronomy in a very significant way. What is glorified today are aspects like plastic surgery being used to plant elephants' heads on Lord Ganesha or Karna being born from the ear being the example of genetic science. Not to be left behind Aviation technology is also attributed to ancient glorious past when Pushpak Viman and even interplanetary travel prevailed. Such claims from mythology being true abound. Such things are not only being taught in the schools but they are also determining the allocation of funds for science and technology research. We saw a huge funding being coordinated by IIT Delhi for research into Panchgavya. This is a mixture of five products from Cow: milk, curd, ghee (clarified butter), urine and dung. This is supposed to be a panacea for treatment of various diseases. The Cow urine is being promoted separately as being of medicinal use. Even before this Government came to power in 2014, its parent organization RSS had floated many organizations to promote the faith based knowledge, through school education. One Dinanath Batra, has been heading the RSS outfits, Shiksha Bachao Abhiyan Samiti and RSS-affiliated Shiksha Sanskriti Utthan Nyas (SSUN) for many decades. His nine books have been translated into Gujarati and introduced in 42000 schools in Gujarat. The sampling of Batra’s books gives a good idea of what is being implemented currently. A quote from one of the sets of books, ‘Tejonmaya Bharat’, (Radiant Bharat) tells us about one Dr Balkrishna Ganpat Matapurkar whose research has been inspired by the Mahabharata. As per him from Gandhari’s womb a huge mass of flesh came out. (Rishi) Dwaipayan Vyas was called. He observed this hard mass of flesh and then he preserved it in a cold tank with specific medicines. He then divided the mass of flesh into 100 parts and kept them separately in 100 tanks full of ghee for two years. After two years, 100 Kauravas were born of it. On reading this, he (Matapurkar) realized that stem cell technology was part of our heritage. (Page 92-93) As per him Indian Rishis (sage) using their Yoga Vidya would attain Divya Drishti (divine vision). There is no doubt that the invention of television goes back to this… In Mahabharata, Sanjaya sitting inside a palace in Hastinapur and using his Divya Shakti (divine power) would give a live telecast of the battle of Mahabharata… to the blind Dhritrashtra. (Page 64) What we know today as the motorcar existed during the Vedic period. It was called Anashva Rath. Usually a Rath (chariot) is pulled by horses but an Anashva Rath means the one that runs without horses or Yantra-Rath, which is today a motorcar. The Rig Veda refers to this. (Page 60) RSS has also set up a consultative body called Bharatiya Shiksha Niti Ayog (BSNA), whose policies are guiding Modi’s government to “correct or Indianise” the national education system. Now organisations like the Indian Council of Historical Research, National Council for Education, Research and Training amongst others, have got heads whose qualification is not excellence in their disciplines but their proximity to ideology of the ruling dispensation. We recall one Y. Sudarshan who was appointed as Chief of ICHR. He was out to prove the Historicity of our great mythological epics, Ramayana and Mahabharata. With this Government in saddle all this bypassing of rational thinking and scientific methods has become the norm. This Government has been promoting Baba Ramdev in a big way. We recall how his Coronil, claiming to be a treatment for Covid was promoted. The Supreme Court has recently given a verdict whereby Ramdev has been warned not to advertise irrational products and misleading ads about the modern system of Medicine. Indian Science Congress has from last many years been accepting papers which have no scientific basis and are based on mythology. Pained by this all prominent scientists came together and issued a statement calling upon the Government to stop the undermining of scientific methods and thinking. “They point out that this attitude has been particularly evident in the government's promotion of unverified or unscientific ideas, exaggeration of ancient Indian knowledge, and certain responses during the COVID-19 pandemic.” And further the statement “… emphasizes the need for a united front among scientists, academics, and policymakers to combat the erosion of scientific integrity and promote rational, evidence-based discourse in the country.” While our Constitution mandates the promotion of scientific temper, the present regime in matters of policy making is bypassing the rational approach not only in science research and education but also in matters related to social policies. In New Education Policy 2020, there is a focus on ‘Indian Knowledge Systems’. This basically means promotion of faith based understanding of knowledge related to material and social sciences. Those political streams which support the movement for social change towards equality try to adopt rational and scientific approach to knowledge and social issues, the major examples being Gautam Buddha, Bhagat Singh, Ambedkar and Nehru in particular. Throughout Indian history those who want to impose the status quo of social relations, those who want to maintain the relations of inequality generally resort to faith based knowledge, take mythology as the gospel truth and impose it on the society. The communal fundamental streams accept the technology with great avidity, while they equally dislike the rational thinking and scientific spirit. Our Constitution emerged from the anti-colonial struggle; looked at the future policies as guiding light for social change, so the Constitution had incorporated promotion of scientific spirit as an inherent part. Today’s regime is opposed to the equality of castes, genders and religion. No wonder it bypasses this core spirit of the Indian Constitution. The welcome statement of these outstanding scientists is a timely urge to restore our path of social and science policy, founded on reason, on scientific temper. ------ Ram Puniyani is president, Centre of Study of Society and Secularism and has written several books including Communal Politics: Facts Versus Myths (Sage, 2003), Deconstructing Terrorist Violence (Sage 2015), Indian Nationalism versus Hindu Nationalism (Pharos 2014) and Caste and Communalism (Olive 2013). URL: https://newageislam.com/current-affairs/majoritarian-nationalism-rational-scientific-spirit/d/131904 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism

Mystical Mindset and Problem-Solving – Concluding Part

By Kaniz Fatma, New Age Islam 13 March 2024 Understanding the Causes of Problems and Tragedies Main Points: 1. Sins and disobedience are often the primary cause of problems and tragedies. 2. Wealth does not always equate to prosperity and mental tranquillity. 3. True contentment and tranquillity of mind are found in submission to Allah Ta'ala and remembering Him. 4. Worship and remembrance of Allah provide the soul with satisfaction and nourishment. 5. We need to repent on an individual and group level, beg Allah Ta'ala for forgiveness, stop disobeying immediately, and make restitution for our future actions. ------ When we say that sins and disobediences are the primary cause of problems and tragedies, some doubters contend that people who uphold moral principles are virtuous, pious, and good—and who refrain from sins—also face problems and difficulties. Why is this the case, exactly? One explanation for this is that the idea that sins and disobedience to God Almighty are the main source of problems is predicated on recurrent occurrences. Most troubles arise as a result of sins and disobedience, but some come in the form of trials that lead to the attainment of blessings. There are occasions when Allah Ta'ala wishes to promote a pious servant to a certain position in the Hereafter. Allah Ta'ala allows hardships to occur in this world to elevate the rank of the servant, even when the servant does not deserve it because of human weakness. These trials are not trouble but a blessing, leading to the elevation of ranks. The sufferings and trials of prophets are of the same kind. Such troubles are like the stings of a bee, ultimately leading to the attainment of bliss like honey. The second response to this question is that being human, the servant is prone to making mistakes. Allah Ta'ala, the Most Merciful, forgives this servant for his sins committed during his time on earth. For this reason, Allah permits the servant to suffer throughout this life to protect him from severe disgrace and punishment in the hereafter. This is just another way that Allah is merciful. But the reality is that humankind cannot fathom the wisdom of Allah. These responses lead to the conclusion that two kinds of suffering can affect a person. One of them manifests in this world as a short divine punishment. This world is indeed the site of action; the true place of punishment and reward is the Hereafter. However, as Allah Almighty states in the Holy Qur'an sometimes He gives a small glimpse of the retribution that awaits humanity in the Hereafter. “And we will surely let them taste the nearer punishment short of the greater punishment that perhaps they will repent.” (32:21) This verse seems to be telling us that all of the ills, pains, and afflictions that people who commit sins endure are acts of mercy for them, helping them to turn from their carelessness and avoid the consequences of the Hereafter. But for those who do not learn anything from even these unwanted events and do not turn to Allah, this punishment becomes dual: the first is the punishment that occurs in this world, and the second is the Great punishment that occurs in the Hereafter. The second type of trouble is that which is not a punishment from Allah Ta'ala, but rather a test from Him which serves as a means of upgrading ranks or erasing sins. And this trouble and suffering is the grace and mercy of Allah Ta'ala that because of this small trouble, Allah Ta'ala saves His weak servant from the great punishment of the Hereafter or bestows him with the great blessing of the Hereafter in the form of elevation of ranks. There is even a hadith that says: "Most prone to trials are Prophets, then the most pious, and then the less pious." The prophets (peace be upon them) were not subjected to punishment; rather, the divine purpose was to elevate their status and ranks even higher. It is a common criticism to say that disobedient individuals are wealthy and appear content. One way to counter this argument is to point out that, although riches are a blessing and can appear to be the source of happiness and joy, wealth does not always equate to prosperity and mental tranquillity. This is because some people appear to have riches, extravagance, and entertainment options, yet their emotions are always restless with worldly greed, concerns about advancement, and fear of lack due to a lack of happiness and trust. You notice how many individuals, even with all the resources at their disposal, lack inner peace and tranquillity. Yes, in fact! Finding disobedient people to be happy is extremely rare, and when it does occur, it is rarely remarkable. True contentment and tranquilly of mind, however, are not to be found in material abundance, but rather in submission to Allah Ta'ala and remembering Him, as stated in His saying: “Only in the remembrance of Allah is the solace of hearts!” (13:28) The majority of us are oblivious to the solace of hearts. They have not done the proper remembering of Allah. They are unaware of this and haven't even entered this valley. There is also the explanation that those who disobey Allah Almighty seem to be doing well; in reality, Allah Ta'ala grants them a little period of relaxation. This is a short-term prosperity. Should anything that ends in irreversible devastation within a few days be referred to as prosperity? This situation is similar to how a rat will happily consume something laced with poison even though it will ultimately destroy it. The primary idea is that, in addition to being necessary for the body, peace is also related to the soul. The body can be comforted by material possessions and outside sources of solace, but these things cannot satisfy the soul or bring inner peace. Worship and remembrance of Allah provide the soul with satisfaction and nourishment. Since it is in man's nature to revere an eternal being, it is impossible to satisfy this innate need with a materialistic lifestyle. To satiate the soul, it is crucial to employ spiritual ways (good activities like worshipping Allah and remembering Him, among others). A holy man put it quite well when he said, "People who live in a world without knowledge of God are compelled to live in a condition of unconscious indecision. What is even more upsetting about this indecision is that they are unable to pinpoint the source of their indecision. They always experience an enigmatic whisper and unexplained anxiety in their hearts, but what causes this anxiety? For what purpose is it used? They are ignorant." In conclusion, our activities are the cause of the problems and hardships we encounter. Consequently, we need to repent of our sins on an individual and a group level, beg Allah Ta'ala for forgiveness, stop disobeying right away, and make restitution for our future actions if we are to enjoy a life of peace and contentment. ---- Kaniz Fatma is a classic Islamic scholar and a regular columnist for New Age Islam Previous Articles: Mystical Mindset and Problem-Solving – Part 1 Mystical Mindset and Problem-Solving – Part 2 URL: https://newageislam.com/debating-islam/mystical-mindset-problem-solving-concluding/d/131903 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism