Search the Community

It is interesting to note that, there is a 'DUA OF THE DAY,' HADITH OF THE DAY', but, there is no 'VERSE OF THE DAY' IS THIS SUPPOSED TO BE AN Islamic FORUM? So in what HADITH AFTER THIS will they believe? 77-50

Sallam Alikum, I have an America friend who would like to read more about Islam, and she wants me to recommend her books. The books I am reading right now, are a bit more complicated and go deeper into Islam, but I want to give her easier books to understand Islam. I do also wish they're more Shia based books. Which books to you all recommend I tell her about? Thank you so much.

Salam Alaykom, I've been a Twitter user myself for a very long time and honestly i don't think that i have ever come across a more toxic platform. There is so much division amongst members of society and religious sects on it. There are countless arguments on a daily basis amongst sects and other groups. At first i thought it due to Twitter's young users however this isn't the case, you get many full grown adults arguing on a daily basis too. It's as if they feed off it. What's your take on this? Do you share the same opinion?

What are the formula for a revolution? Iranian Revolution is the model. Stand Up for Allah(سُبْحَانَهُ وَ تَعَالَى) singly, twos and threes Every action out of The Ten: 1. Prayer 2. Fast 3. Charity 4. Khums 5. Hajj 6. Jihad ... 10. Tawalla, defines us & it takes 7 parts of the body to do it.

The Rise of the Qa'im: The Appearance of the Mahdi in Established Narrations https://www.amazon.com/dp/1790653827 "The Rise of the Qa'im" is a compilation of narrations on the Mahdi from the most ancient and most reliable Twelver Shīʿī sources. Learn about the birth of the Twelfth Imam, his occultation, his ambassadors, his inevitable return, Islamic eschatology, and much more. "The Rise of the Qa'im" is the most comprehensive English work on the subject. It includes Arabic sources, footnotes, and biographical evaluations for each tradition. This has been endorsed by eminent Shīʿī scholars and academics as one of the most valuable insights on the Hidden Imam in English.

As-salāmu ʿalaykum brothers & sisters Recently, I've seen a few posts wherein people have mentioned that there is a difference between Islam & "Islamic/Arabic culture". Namely, that there are practices and customs that people at the masjid or in the wider ummah might insist that I take up as a recent revert- but that have nothing to do with Islam or anything that the Prophet (صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم) encouraged. I understand the idea, because Christianity (especially evangelicalism) has this phenomenon as well, but I can and already know those. As I am a "baby Muslim"/new revert, I will not be able to recognize these on my own, so I want to start a discussion about what some examples of those might be so that I can more easily identify them when I am put into a situation wherein I encounter them. I appreciate your help in advance, thank you.

Asalamwalaykum. I am a 15 year old boy, who is currently on winter break. I am very stressed about school right now. Last year (Grade 9) and throughout elementary school, I got very good grades, especially mathematics, was 90's and 80's. Last year went really well too. This year however, I have been trying very hard, and studying a lot, and praying, yet I still have got very bad grades like 60's 70's. I know that I am doing everything I can, and I have gotten very close to Allah over the past few weeks, and have been crying in the glory of Allah, and for forgiveness for sins. I know that school has gotten harder from grade 9 to 10, but I know that I should be getting 90's, 80's at least still! I study constantly, and I am also humble about my grades, even though I might not have been before. Everyone of my friends are getting the same grades as last year, while possibly even studying less! I am frustrated by myself, and I need some hope. I will need 90's next two years in mathematics, and science, which are courses that I love, but have not been doing well in. I am also very scared because over the break I have been praying to Allah to help me with my education, so I can go on and help the Muslim community after getting a good job, I have been praying to become a doctor from a young age as well. I need some hope, or some clarification from you people, to help me understand if this is a test from Allah, and how to improve myself so I can do something about my situation. Thanks.

Can anyone inform me about Shias in Russia? I'm planning to study there next year and I hope I would be able to find a Shia community there. I know there are a significant minority in Dagestan and urban Moscow but are there any other places with a Shia minority? I tried to search it online but I can't seem to find anything. If anyone knows of any Shia centers in Russia then please kindly inform me about it and maybe even give me a google maps link.

On Reddit, I’ve come across a self-proclaimed “ex-Muslim,” who even happens to be an Iraqi Shia residing in the USA. Most of his claims are based on misinterpretations of the Quran, and I have duly refuted them. But he seems to know nothing about Shiism other than “some guy named Ali wanted to be leader.” (Astaghfirallah, his words not mine) Meaning that his “reasons” for leaving Islam had nothing to do with the Jaafari school of thought and had to do with Islam in general. I’ve told him that there is a tremendous difference between Shiism and Sunnism, but how can I bring him back to the deen without overwhelming him? I’ve shown him some of the scientific miracles in the Quran, but he merely shrugs them off. Any advice?

As-salamunalaikum, I was wondering what people think about the moral traits, behaviour, akhlaq, of a person (male and female) towards other people in general life, IN THIS GENERATION. How do you think one should be with other people (Muslim and non-Muslim)? What moral traits and characteristics do you think are a MUST in this generation towards other people, and why? What kind of a person are you when you are alone, and what kind of a person are you when you are around other people? If there is a difference, then why is that so? How do you react when people judge you based on your traits? What traits and lessons have you adopted from the teachings of Islam and the Ahlulbayt? What do you do when you see someone constantly scared from judgement from others? How would you help them? How would you help a depressed person? - OR - How do you deal with your own depression? How do you deal with anxiety and nervousness? Especially, when around other people? What keeps you grounded to your roots? What is your idea of tawakkul? What is your idea of a happy and satisfying life? What are things that give you happiness? What satisfies you? What advice would you give to your fellow people about these traits and life in general? I'm really hoping to get some answers for these questions, since I think they'll be beneficial for others as much as for me. So kindly try your best to answer at least a few or all of them, if possible. Jazakallah Khair Wa-assalamualaikum Wa Rahmatullah

(salam) A christian has asked me that Why Quran has mentioned that male sperms originate from between the back and the ribs. I could not answer him because of my little knowledge. Any one can help? (bismillah) خُلِقَ مِنْ مَاءٍ دَافِقٍ {6} يَخْرُجُ مِنْ بَيْنِ الصُّلْبِ وَالتَّرَائِبِ {7} [Shakir 86:6] He is created of water pouring forth, [Shakir 86:7] Coming from between the back and the ribs.

I am currently writing a research paper on the People of Pakistan and have been asked to define their worldview, culture, and beliefs. I am very curious to know what the Islamic worldview is from your perspectives - Pakistani or not, I want to hear from everyone who would like to share. Thank you!

I believe that the Afterlife is not just for Humans and Jinn, but also for animals. Yes, your favourite pet cat that died will be brought back to life, and who knows, you may be reunited! I believe this for 2 reasons. Firstly, justice and mercy seem to require that animals be compensated for the suffering they endured on Earth. After all, many animals lived very difficult lives, full of pain and suffering. Secondly, a number of verses in the Qur'an seem to point to an Afterlife for animals. In the context of the end of the world, and the Day of Judgement, verse 81:5 says: و إذا الوحوش حشرت And when the wild animals are gathered together (hushirat) - Al-Takwir, 81:5 Allamah Tabataba'i in Al-Mizan says: و ظاهر الآية من حيث وقوعها في سياق الآيات الواصفة ليوم القيامة أن الوحوش محشورة كالإنسان، و يؤيده قوله تعالى: «و ما من دابة في الأرض و لا طائر يطير بجناحيه إلا أمم أمثالكم ما فرطنا في الكتاب من شيء ثم إلى ربهم يحشرون»: الأنعام: 38. The apparent meaning of this verse based on the place of its occurrence, and the context of verses describing the events of The Day of Judgement, is that the wild animals are also (brought back to life and) gathered (mah-shoora) just like human beings. This is supported by the verse: There is not an animal that walks upon the Earth, nor a bird that flies with its two wings, except that they form communities like your own; We have neglected nothing in the Book. Then to their Lord shall they be gathered (yuh-sharoon) - Al-An'am, 6:38. (Tafsir Al-Mizan, chapter on Surah Al-Takwir)

Asalamualikum. What is the ruling for burning candles on graves? Many people call it bid'ah (innovation), is it so?

Salaam everyone. I have just wanted to say with everything that is going on in the world. I have decided to recite Ziarat Ashura for 40 days. I have also included reciting Hadith Kisa and 6 specific verses from the holy Qur'an, but you don’t have to if you don’t want to. If you need audio or text you can find everything here: http://www.duas.org/corona.htm Please post in this thread if you plan on joining to inspire others as well.May Allah accept all our duas! Eltimas e Dua

A discussion on reason, consciousness, and free will through the lense of evolution. I am putting this in the atheism section as the discussion is hosted by non believers (though miller of course is catholic).

Was Hafsa divorced by the Prophet? Yes! عن عمر بن الخطاب: أنَّ رسولَ اللهِ ﷺ طلَّق حفصةَ ثمَّ راجَعها.) انتهى من صحيح ابن حبان (١٠ / ١٠٠ / ٤٢٧٥). وصححه الألباني في سلسلة الأحاديث الصحيحة (٥ / ١٥ / ٢٠٠٧). وصححه شعيب الأرنؤوط في كتاب تخريج مشكل الآثار (٤٦١١). Narrated by Omar Ibn Al Khattab may Allaah be pleased with him: The Holy Prophet peace be upon him divorce Hafsah but then came back with her. Sources: Sahih Ibn Hibban, vol: 10, page: 100, hadith: 4275. Authenticated by Al Albaani in his Silsat Al Ahadith Al Sahiha, vol: 5, page: 15, hadith: 2007. And also authenticated by Shu'ayb Al Arna'out is the book "Takhrij Mushkil Al Athar" ( 4611 ). If Hafsa was remarried then by logic she was divorced!

Bismillah Al-rahman Al-rahim. Is there any hadith from the twelve Imams (عليه السلام) or the Prophet (صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم) that describes how to perform the Salat Al-Istighfar? I've googled but people tend to say different things like do 2 Rak'ats or 4 Rak'ats and honestly I don't know if there's any difference between Shia or Sunni opinion on how to perform this salaat. I would appreciate if someone could guide me in full detail. Wa-asalam.

I will start this post of by saying I am a non denominational Muslim (which means I don't really align myself to a sect but if I had to I would say I'm more zaydi in my beliefs, but I have the upmost respect for the companions of the Prophet) . If you asking why, it's because of my research into both Shi'a and Sunni Islam has given me so much to ponder over that I question a lot of the beliefs and wonder why things are in both beliefs. Please comment below if you have anything to add, anything you found interesting or anything you want to challenge or counter. Mosques: When I went to Shi'a Mosques, it felt more closed off if you catch my drift, I know some of you will probably disagree with this, but the Sunni mosques that I went to are more open to outsiders. I went to Shi'a mosques that were run by Pakistanis (which seemed more cultural then religious, maybe it will the language and the way they presented things, but there were far more emphasis on the Ahlul Bayt (particular in regards to Imam Ali and Fatima Zahra, )). I went to an Iranian Shi'a mosque which was a more nice experience but once again it was very culturally designed, unfortunately as I'm not Persian I couldn't really understand what they were saying. The closet thing to a mosque that I grew up was an Arab Shi'a mosque, it wasn't extravagent, just plain bear and just saw people continuously praying. My experience at Sunni mosques is quite different, I'm not saying this as a biased point of view but I feel like the Sunni mosques teach the message of the messenger Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَ تَعَالَى) more then the Shi'a mosques which empathise the teachings of the Ah'lulbayt more. It was quite weird hearing people saying Imam Alis name louder then the Prophets ((صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم)) name. Sunni mosques also like to focus on previous Prophets and focus on actions more (well from what I've experienced). In my experience the leaders of the Sunnis mosques are more open to talking and interacting then the sheikhs in the Shi'a mosques. I know it isn't common practice amongst quite a few Shi'as but it'd be quite nice to see a Shi'a mosque which was open for 5 Daily Prayers (at 5 consecutive times). For some praying 5 times a day brings them closer to God, although I don't disagree with hadiths that state that praying 3 times performing 5 prayers is allowed Beliefs: Prayer Wudhu: The method of prayer between the Sunnis and Shi'as is quite different. First of all is the matter of wudhu. Being a Shi'a forum I assume you guys probably know your method of wudhu. I find the Sunni version of wudhu makes me feel and more ready for prayer however. Azaan: Although it is debated amongst Shi'as and Sunnis that the azaan is altered on both sides. For example the Shi'as argue that the Fajr azaan in Sunni Islam is altered (although I'll be honest I havent looked in this), the athaan for the rest of the prayers seem unaltered, as they pledge the first two statements (There is no God but Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَ تَعَالَى)), and the Prophet (صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم) is the final messenger. Shi'as also add the third to their athaan. I know Shi'as say that it is not mandatory (wajib) but I will say from my observe in the mosques etc, none has dropped the third testimony to the Athaan, which if you growing up as a young person you might start to assume that it is part of the athaan, which it isn't. I found this uncomfortable at time because I have grown up with the belief that the athaan is the athaan and should be unaltered (which is why I think the zaydi athaan is the correct form of athaan). I also questioned if it is optional, why didn't any of the centres I visited omit it from the adhaan, it's not like you have to add it everytime, for Sunnis this is quite controversial, if Shi'as are to add it to the athaan isn't it moving away from the Sunnah? Prayers: Shi'as pray with there hands down, Sunnis pray with there hands crossed. Not an issue for me either way sometimes I pray with my hands down sometimes with my hands crossed (I prefer praying with my hands down as it feels more natural). Shi'as use a turbah (which I don't like to criticize as I find it admirable), however there is an issue for me with turbah, because some of them say Imam Hussein or other members of the Ah'lulbayt, this for me is a grey issue, on the one hand you have a turbah made out of clay as it's Sunnah to pray on earthly material, on the otherhand you have members of the Ahlul'bayts name on them to which you're prostrating to, you can start to see my issue right....? Also whether we accept it or not there is no recollection of the Prophet ((صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم)) using a turbah in his prayers, although there is hadiths of him using a mat made out of leaves I believe, this is still quite different from a turbah. The second thing which I observed was that Sunni's were much more observant of praying 5 times at 5 different times then Shi'as in their 5 daily prayers. Most Shi'as do tend to adopt the view that 3 times a day performing all 5 prayers is fine, however it's preferable to pray all 5 at 5 times which isn't encouraged enough in Shi'a centers hence the reason why they are only opened 3 times a day. Shi'as also ask Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَ تَعَالَى) to bless the Prophet (صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم) and his family often in ruku and in sajda (although I don't have an issue with this per se, we are praying to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَ تَعَالَى) so we should focus on given the upmost praise to our Lord, which is why I just save it till Tasshahud). Beliefs: Without going into all the beliefs I have seen I will point out a few that I will say had me questioning Shi'a Islam Imam al-Sadeq was a great scholar, and he had all 4 main Sunni madhabs come from his teachings. But the thing that I find questionable is why is it then the Jafari school of thought is so different to the Sunni school of thought, if all 4 schools derived from Jafar al-Sadeq how comes non of them proclaim that the teachings of Jafer al-Sadeq similar to the Shi'a Jafari school of thought, in regards to stuff such as prayer etc, why are there all so different? Just a side note I'm not sure but apparently Imam al-Sadeq is also a descendant of one of the Sahaba (although I can't remember who), how would he feel to hear his generation criticised? Sunnis belief the Prophet saw was the most noble man to work this Earth, the Shi'as say he was infallible, this is also a point of sticking point for me and which I have to do more research on but I don't totally disregard the Shi'a view that our Prophet is infalliable (I say this because of the argument that the Prophet of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَ تَعَالَى) has to be perfect for us to believe his message, otherwise people wouldn't be as trusting of his message). But it did get me questioning, how would an infallible man come to pick companions who wouldn't be loyal to him? Surely he would see people who would betray him, I have respect for the Sahaba (I'm not here to criticise Shi'as), but whether it is liked or not, the Sahaba were with the Prophet during his life and helped the growth of our religion, there are also authentic hadiths in which the Prophet (صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم) has praised the Sahaba so why turn a blind eye to these? However I have read the Hadith al-Thaqlalyn and the story of Ghadir Khums. Because of these two counters, I do believe that Imam Ali was the rightful successor, but not to infallibility which something as big as this should be more clearly defined in the Qu'ran. I believe Imam Ali was the rightful caliphs but due to his merits, not because he was divinely appointed, an issue such as divine appoint would have been made clear in the Qu'ran, we can looks at verse but the tafsir on both Sunni and Shi'a sides could be correct (which is why I have an issue picking a side). For example, 33:33 Sunnis argue that is all the Prophets household including his wives (which would make sense make sense as the whole Surah is on women), however Shi'as argue it is based on the Ah Al-Kisa, whos correct I don't know, but why would something like this be made for us laymen to ponder and then interpret in a different way to how the message seems originally? I still struggle to see viewpoints in Sunni hadiths (the reason I take them more seriously because there is a greater hadith science between it and the verification process is more extensive) that Imam Ali was in direct conflict between the first three caliphs. Also a lot of the hadiths have been translated from the Prophets wife Aisha in Surah Bukhari, which is important in understanding the Sunnah of the Prophet in the Sunni traditions, which is why I don't understand the animonsity Shi'as have towards her. If we are to adopt the traits of the Ahlul Bayt, Imam Ali still showed her respect despite the disputes, so wouldn't it preferable to take the opinion of Imam Ali? Just a sidenote, I also find Sunnis beliefs a bit difficult to understand, if they are under one umbrella, lets take an issue like combining prayers, Hanafis say it is not permitted under any circumstance unless at Hajj, whereas Malikis say it is permitted, but during travelling, rain etc, Hanbalis say a distance of 90km. So whos right? The Maliki madhub pray with their hands down, this is because the founder of the madhabs was from Medinah I believe and said that hows people in Medinah prayed which means this is what the Prophet (صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم) must have taught. If this is true, why did the other school not do it aswell, we are from the rope of religion. I also have an issue with the way Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَ تَعَالَى) is described, for me it's more plausible that the Shi'a view that Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَ تَعَالَى) is not limited by time or space, and to attribute attribute to our Lord is limiting him. Unfortunately what did turn me away from Shi'a Islam was the difference in pilgrimidge etc. Sunnis emphathise visiting Mecca, Medinah and Al Aqsa, as the first three holiest sites, I know this belief is shared in Shi'a beliefs aswell, but unfortunately I just don't thing this was empathised as much as visiting the shrines of Imam Ali, Imam Hussein, Imam Ridha etc. I'm not against visiting shrines, but to make it into a pilgrimidge kind of thing where these things for some take precedent over visiting officially recognised sites was a bit concerning. If I offend you with this I'm sorry but I have noticed it more people do actively talk about visiting Karbala than visiting Mecca for example. The story of the birth of Fatima Zahra. I heard from the Shi'a perspective that apparently that angels or something along these line visiting Lady Khadija and appointed 4 women to the birth of Fatima Zahra, but I never heard of this before anywhere in our religion and I don't see anything from the Prophet pbuhbeing mentioned regarding this Tawassul. Tawassul is hugely controversial and difficult for me to understand. When you look into to what they say in Dua Tawassul as a Sunni you'd be forgiven for thinking that Shi'as ask for other for help rather then Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَ تَعَالَى), which is polythiestic. I understand the Shi'a reasoning behind it, but for me it is always strange to ask someone for help, who will then turn to our Lord and ask on our behalf, this is not common in Sunni Islam at all, which then paints a grey area, why not just ask Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَ تَعَالَى) directly, surely it's better and safer to do anyways Mu'tah, Tattoos, Tatbir Zanjeer. Sigh, these things are things that a person like me from a Sunni background has grown up and been told are not allowed. Why? I don't wish to speak bad of Mu'tah incase I may be mistaken, but you guys have probably heard the arguments against it. Tattoos, we've grown up to believe that our bodies are perfect so to modify them artificilly is looked down upon, some reason why we don't agree with Tatbir/Zanjeer, our bodies shouldn't be used to harm ourself, the Prophet didn't do it, so should we? This thread took a long time to write, I'm not hear to bash Shi'a beliefs, I just want a discussion, I'm a layman who is looking to learn (which is an important part of our religion), I was reading a article on how Khomeini was so adamant and fixed on the idea that Shi'a Islam was the true form of Islam it got me wondering, despite the majority of Muslims being Sunnis why was he so adamant that he was right? These things are so difficult to understand, it would take years to know if you practicing the religion properly and sometimes it hurts my brain thinking about these things. I'm open minded, I believe that Imam Ali should have been successor, but as I said I don't think he was divinely appointed, because I don't think something like this would have been left without being said, why would the Prophet not annouce that the Imam Mahdi has gone into hiding aswell or it being mentioned in Qu'ran. Because of all that I've that I've observed I do not really align myself with a sect, but I would say I'm more general Sunni follower with Zaydi beliefs if that makes sense. Let me know if you guys have anything to add. Than

*English Message follows* دورة جديدة في حوزة الامام الحسين (ع) قال رَسُولُ اللَّهِ ( صلى الله عليه وآله ) : " طَلَبُ الْعِلْمِ فَرِيضَةٌ عَلَى كُلِّ مُسْلِمٍ ، أَلَا إِنَّ اللَّهَ يُحِبُّ بُغَاةَ الْعِلْمِ " في بداية السنة الجديدة ٢٠٢٠ م تبدأ حوزة الإمام الحسين عليه السلام تقبل طلبات الانتساب الى دورة تمهيدية جديدة للراغبين بالدراسة الحوزوية وستكون بالترتيب التالي: ١ . يُركز على تعليم اللغة العربية في السنة الاولى بمعدل ٣ ساعات صباحا من الاثنين إلى الجمعة لكي يتمكن الطالب من إتقان اللغة العربية بما يؤهله للدراسة الحوزوية ٢ . بالإضافة لما سبق يدرس الطالب دروساً دينية باللغة الانجليزية أو مدعمة بالعربية إلى أن يكون مؤهلا لتلقي كل الدروس الحوزوية باللغة العربية. ٣ . تؤمن الدراسة لكافة الطلاب والطالبات من مدينة وندزور وكافة المدن الاخرى في امريكا الشمالية بشكل حضوري ويُؤمن سكن داخلي في المؤسسة للطلاب الذكور القادمين من خارج مدينة وندزور. ٤ . نرجو ممن يرغب بالدراسة المبادرة الى إخبار إدارة الحوزة وتسجيل الاسم في شهر كانون الثاني لكي يتمكن من متابعة الدراسة. يرجى ممن عنده إلتزام بدراسة جامعية أو بعمل أن ينظم أوقات عمله أو دراسته الجامعية مسبقاً بحيث تكون بعد الظهر لتتسنى له الدراسة في هذه الدورة قبل الظهر. نرجو ممن يطلع على هذه الرسالة نشرها في امريكا الشمالية لتصل إلى الاخوة والاخوات الذين يهمهم الأمر ويكون الناشر مشاركا في ثواب دراسة طالب العلم وخدمته الدينية. التواصل يكون عبر الإيميل التالي: hawzawindsor@gmail.com او بالاتصال على الارقام التالية: سماحة الشيخ عبد المنعم شرارة +1(519) 819-8117 السيد حسن الطباطبائي +1(514) 465-5526 مكتب استعلامات المؤسسة +1 (519) 256-7171 صفحتنا على الفيسبوك: http://facebook.com/ihfwindsor وفقنا الله واياكم لخدمة علوم محمد وآل محمد عليهم السلام A New Course in the Imam Hussain ((عليه السلام).) Hawza – Windsor, Canada The Holy Prophet Muhammed (P.) said: “Seeking knowledge is an obligation on every Muslim, Surely, Allah loves the seekers of knowledge.” At the beginning of the New Year 2020, the Imam Hussain ((عليه السلام).) Hawza in Windsor, Canada, is accepting applications for registration to a new introductory course for those wishing to study Hawza, details are as follows: 1. The focus in the first year is learning Arabic for about 3 hours a day, classes are in the morning, from Monday to Friday. It is crucial for the student to master Arabic language in order to qualify for Hawza Studies which are delivered in Arabic Language. 2. In addition to the above, students will be having various religious classes in English until they are eligible to enroll in the Hawza classes which are taught in Arabic language. 3. Classes are provided by attendance to all male and female students from the city of Windsor and all other cities in North America for free. The Hawza provides residential accommodation in the institution for male students only who are coming from outside the city of Windsor. 4. If you wish to study at the Hawza, please contact the Hawza Administration in January to register so that you can start your classes. Note: Those who are committed to university studies or work are requested to organize their university or work schedule in advance so that they are all in the afternoon because the classes will all be before Dhuhr prayers. * We ask everyone who see this announcement to share it with their contacts in North America so that it reaches all those who are interested in studying Hawza. For further details, do not hesitate to contact us on the following email: hawzawindsor@gmail.com Or by calling the following numbers: Shaikh Abdul Mon’im Sharara: +1 (519) 819-8117 Sayed Hassan Tabatabai: +1 (514) 465-5526 The Foundation’s Reception Desk: +1 (519) 256-7171 Official Facebook Page: http://facebook.com/ihfwindsor Thank you,

http://alhaydari.com/ar/2019/12/68591/ Translation by me :) THOUGHTS ON MODERNITY AND POST-MODERNISM BY KAMAL AL-HAYDARI Lecture 1 One of the most important facts that we must turn to, That Modernity movement that started in the West one and a half to two centuries ago with regard to the rights of women and theories that were born from this movement, which are lots and in many directions. If we want to understand them well, we must understand the intellectual, social and economic reality that generated This movement that led to the flourish of West. Look at Islamic states. see these forty or fifty years in the system of these states. You find many ideas raised that does not exist at all before, but it is now the intellectual and cultural reality that led to it. How much was the scientific researches, thought, culture and official institutions concerned with the issue of governance in Islam? But now hundreds of studies, writings and lessons are all looking for governance in Islam Why? Because social streaks became this way. However, you do not find a counterpart in the past. Why? Because the social, political, intellectual and cultural realities have led to it and even might you don’t find such things in other regions. From here we conclude this fact, which is that ideas, philosophies and philosophical theories are not above time and place and this is what post-modernism has stated, they said that we cannot put a philosophical theory above time and place. So, on this basis, if this fact becomes clear when we come to the western theories and feminist’s movement, etc. how we must read them now? We must read it in its cultural, social and intellectual realities that produced these theories. The question I want to enter with it, how should we deal with the thought presented to us taking into account where these ideas originate from? Should we close the door on it and never study it or as some people accept it as if they are absolute facts or there is another direction behind these? In the introduction I must refer to the historical epochs that Western thought went through, if we use the language of contemporary European historians, history will be divided into three basic stages: • Greco-Roman world This is the first stage that spanned from the fifth century B.C. Socrates era to the fifth century A.D. and lasted for ten centuries. • Middle Ages lasted from the fall of Roman in the West in 476 in the fifth century to the fall of the Byzantine empire by the Ottoman Turks 1453, also approximately ten other centuries • Modern era Post-Middle Ages era about 4-5 centuries and continues to this day. These are what we have with in the history of West. Of course, there are multiple branches and diversities. But What do Muslims have? The Golden Islamic era are within the time of Middle Ages, However the West were in the era of darkness. Muslim used to live in the age of modernity, but rather the Islamic modernity and It was the center of the world, but since the naming of the Middle Ages is infamous with the West and surrounded by negativity in the Arab and European consciousness because the Middle Ages were the centuries of darkness, we feel great pain and anger because the best of us is classified in the name medieval, this leads me to re-search the history of Islam in a way In line with the respect of our history, so then what are the periods that Islam went through? • Production Age The emergence of Islam in the seventh century AD ending with the death of Ibn-Rushd in the twelfth century. These five six centuries that produced all of our ideas and thoughts in various directions from Sunnis, Shiites, Mu'tazila and Ash'ari that govern our reality regardless of scientific, natural researches and the discoveries in astronomy, physics, chemistry were all connected to those centuries, the stage of production was the era of transculturation as well? Because in these centuries the other thought began translated through the House of Wisdom established by Al-Maamoun for the expalme the Greek, Indian, and Persian philosophy in other words philosophy in all its dimensions also from the various human sciences and medicine that came from that period. • The era of decadence The age of rumination and repetition to the past works It represents our Middle Ages, which were the ages of darkness starting from the six seven century AH (13th century AD) to the thirteenth century AH (19th century AD) remains for six to seven centuries however still remains some intellectual flashes like Ibn-Khaldoun in the eighth century AH(the end of 13th century AD), but these were exceptions from the rule. Muslim in That era was outside history does not know what's going on in the world in contrast West From the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries and after they entered into fights with Catholic church and extremist ideas and with the shocking industrial, digital revolutions until they brought Western thought to this day. The West is moving forward and the Muslims are in a deep sleep, until they turned in the late eighteenth and nineteenth centuries and found that these are ahead by light years and not by ordinary years. Look at us, where are we? So, Muslims started the movement in the nineteenth century. But do you know the difference? They started in the fifteenth century and Muslims started in the nineteenth century How many? How do you want to fill the gap? Muslims may not believe because of the miserable situation that we have reached that we were once masters of this civilized world and that our philosophers and our scholars were seven centuries ago representing the supreme authority of the great thinkers of the European continent of dozens and when I say thinkers then I mean Al-Farabi, Ibn Sina, Ibn Bajah and Ibn Rushd mainly who renew the philosophical thought and this is what led the other to need us. Then how we should deal with the thought presented to us with that huge gap? The answer is philosophy, that you live the questions of your time and the truth of philosophy in two things: to live the questions of your time and raise the problems of your time. You are the son of your time, I mean, what are the questions of your time and answering those questions? In various dimensions, there is never a red line in the question. Any question in your era must be raised and you must find the answer to it. The Muslims died the day when philosophy died. I mean, when they died, they stop asking about the problems of their times. They only contented themselves to read the questions of the times of their ancestors. The secret of philosophy is translation and opening up to others. Whoever does not translate does not allow a new blood flow in his veins, dries a little and dies, and this is what happened in Islamic history. Translation and openness are what excites and provokes you, A world of new questions and new excitements requires a new mind of philosophers to solve. In the past ten years, all my concern in my scientific work pose a new question, no but provocations that provoked the Arab mind and never answer? Because I want you to live the problem and say what is the solution? Otherwise if I gave you the question and the solution to it Do you think or not? Your mind becomes what? Thinking mind or resigned mind? Until now Muslims are sitting here and consuming West ideas, intellectual, industrial and natural production even in the way they cut their hair they also imitate them. Look at our culture and people in all of our societies. go to Europe, but are they drowning or not? Thousands drowning, are they stop going to Europe or not? Why? Because they want to live a decent life, not least. His sense of a decent life. Now he may be mistaken, but their feeling is that a decent life is in there? why is this sensation? How do we deal with the other, so what is the way? My dear, there are several ways these are: The first position: To go to the West and be obedient follower of the Western thought, and this is what you now find in many of the writings. did they mention about Islam or not? Never they have nothing to do with it. The second position: reverence for heritage only, and this is the Salaf trend now, Of course, when I say Salafi, your mind does not only go to Wahhabism and Ibn Taymiyyah or Muhammad bin Abd al-Wahhab, no. Everyone who sees that the first century of Islam is the best of the centuries. The third position: (a lot more severe) revering the West and insulting the Islamic thought, being ridiculous of the whole heritage, past, thoughts, culture, customs, gains and what we have saved for centuries, we put them in the trash. The fourth position: reverence the heritage and delete everything that comes from the West as their thought being dangerous and may cause devastation of the society, Really, I don’t know how this came from. These are the main 4 positions however I will share my position later in this book.

Salam I am a Doctor by profession and married I am about to select my speciality of future and I am too confused so I did istakhara from Qur'an after isha prayers after learning how it is performed in imamia jantri so I did like that, I was thinking about gynecology and obstetrics so my istekhara waNJs about whether should I do it or not so this ayah came And tell the believing women to reduce [some] of their vision and guard their private parts and not expose their adornment except that which [necessarily] appears thereof and to wrap [a portion of] their headcovers over their chests and not expose their adornment except to their husbands, their fathers, their husbands' fathers, their sons, their husbands' sons, their brothers, their brothers' sons, their sisters' sons, their women, that which their right hands possess, or those male attendants having no physical desire, or children who are not yet aware of the private aspects of women. And let them not stamp their feet to make known what they conceal of their adornment. And turn to Allah in repentance, all of you, O believers, that you might succeed. People have confused me about this now some saying there is prohibition others saying there is positive sign of success as gynE is female speciality and patients are only females now I am confused any learnt person who know about istekhara please help me jazakAllah

Personally I think there are so many problems with being a believer. When you say “I believe” you are fundamentally saying, “I am unwilling to admit that I do not know”. The seeker is willing to admit he doesn’t know! The believer is unwilling to make this admission. He draws conclusions about what is not yet within his experience. A believer may make assumptions about the day of the judgement! Further, the moment you believe something, you are in conflict with the opposing belief. You can postpone it with moderate talk. But conflict is inevitable. Isn't it that Abu Darda reported: Did Imam Ali (عليه السلام) not affirm in his last will, I do not see how one can attain ultimate bliss by believing in something that they do not know, by not having the courage nor commitment to seek what is true and just by wanting to assume something. The fundamental human nature is to seek, isn't it how we grow? But then why have faith in something? Well, personally, belief is a big no-no to me but faith is a big yes-yes! It is because faith is something that happens along the spiritual path. It is not something that is forced upon your mind. Belief is brainwashing; faith is a realization through experience. Faith is about recognizing that there is an intelligence in the universe that is beyond our limited logic, and seeking ways to access that. But right now, unfortunately, faith has been misunderstood to mean rigid dogma. How is Belief different from Faith? Even further, the word mistranslated into English as believer has the roots, hamza-meem-nun, meaning to have faith. Of course, "belief" is a synonym to "faith" in English, but languages like Arabic are fundamentally different from languages like English. Arabic is a language where a single word is capable of a multitude of meanings while English is a language where different words can have an exact same meaning! It must be understood that Classical Arabic is too accurately grammatized and too literal. However, the language was still very young at the time the Qur'an Sharif was written. The language of the sacred text carries no such smartness or cleverness as its Classical form because its propounder, the Prophet (صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم), was himself just too simple. That being said, with very less grammar and much sense of colloquialism there were naturally many different meanings of a single word but even so, inter-related. It is only the gift of the so-called 19th century western philosophers and translators that the essence of spiritual processes were corrupted. Now, I understand why Benjamin Franklin had said, "Give me twenty-six lead soldiers and I will conquer the world." Indeed, Edward Bulwer-Lytton agreed that "The pen is mightier than the sword." Today, along with the so called religious scholars of their own religion, the English translators since 17th century have harmed much of the philosophies of the world. English is a widespread language that has emerged out of the need to communicate and it has the least vocabulary to become a translated target-language. It lacks the vast memory and moods found in languages like Arabic. English is a language for materialistic purposes only! What Qur'an has to say about Islam? Qur'an itself refers to Islam as Din - While the word "religion" would again connect Islam with a certain form of theism, Din is an Arabic word with its root being d-y-n, meaning ‘to dissolve.’ Thus, the Prophet (صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم) himself is telling that Islam has nothing to do with any belief-system, rather it is about submission to the whole of the creation and becoming one with it and obviously it needs faith to walk such a truthful path and dissolve. This is why Allah has the name Al-Ahad - The Unifier. For me, Islam is not a Religion but a Way of Life and a Spiritual Quest and I am not a believer but indeed faithful to Islam. What are your views?

Hi there, Today I am writing this blog for advice and help on how I, a 20-year old white girl, can become a 'better' Muslim. I was raised in a white family; none of whom believe in God. Whilst they are usually very understanding, due to the way that media is here, my immediate family are somewhat scared and intimidated by Islam. But I don't want to argue with them, or confront them. I really wish to educate them and let them watch through my own evolution that Islam is not something to fear. I have nobody around me that is Muslim, and I am not really sure where I can find information to educate myself that isn't biased (not to be rude, just a general thought based on my experience with the internet). I am very new to Islam, so I would like to learn as much as possible before I then try to educate those around me. What can I do, and what would you recommend for me to do that would enable to me to learn more about Islam and how to include it into my every day life? Thank you for your time, I really appreciate any feedback you can give me. This is something very close to my heart.