Here - Jamiyah Singapore

Commemorating The
Life & Birth
MUHAMMAD BIN ABDULLAH
RASULULLAH SAW
TABLE OF
CONTENT
!""#"!$%&'()*+,#
-'.#*/*0'$&,
!"#
#$%&'(%#&$!))#"%*#+
Editorial Board
Zainuddin Ismail (Editor)
Azlina Ismail (Assoc. Editor)
H.M.Saleem
Md Noor Bin Md Said
Sulaiman jeem
Mohd. Hosni Abdul Malik
Andi Abdul Kadir Andi Kitta
Periodical Magazine Published by :
Muslim Missionary Society Singapore (JAMIYAH)
31 Lorong 12 Geylang Singapore 399006
Tel: +65 6743 1211 Fax: +65 6745 0610
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.jamiyah.org.sg
REG. No ROS 870/47 REL CHARITY REG. No. 0568
MICA(P) 115/04/2011 Printed by Multiprint Services
Designers
Syazwani Syafawati Bt Zahari
Suraimi Farid Bin Sulaiman
VOI Volume 01/2011
03
CONTENT
05.
08.
09.
11.
16.
17.
19.
21.
23.
25.
26.
27.
28.
29.
30.
32.
35.
36.
37.
39.
40.
42.
44.
45.
48.
49.
50.
51.
53.
54.
55.
57.
58.
59.
61.
63.
65.
67.
69.
70.
71.
73.
75.
SAMBUTAN MAULUD NABI SAW DI STADIUM WOODLANDS
MENCINTAI RASUL SEHARUSNYA MELEBIHI DIRI SENDIRI
SPEECH BY HAJI S.M.ABDUL JALEEL
MUHAMMAD BIN ABDULLAH WORLD TEACHER AND MERCY UNTO THE UNIVERSE
PROPHET’S ETERNAL PROMISE TO CHRISTIANS
THE FIRST REVELATIONS
MADINAH AGREEMENT (MITHAQ MADINAH)
HUDAIBIYAH AGREEMENT
STARTING FIRST WITH CONCEPT OF GOD
LEE BOON SIONG FROM POH ERN SHIH TEMPLE
SIGNING OF MEMORANDUM OF INTENT
FANDI AHMAD ACADEMY RELIGIOUS HARMONY CUP
ACCOUNTING A CRUCIAL PERSONAL SKILL
FOUR SYMBOLIC EVENTS IN ONE HI-TEA GATHERING
PROBLEMS OF THE YOUNG
DEATH – ONE BELIEVER’S PERSPECTIVE
TURKEY’S CONSTITUTIONAL REFERENDUM OF 2010
ASSOCIATION OF MUSLIM LAWYERS
TAKING THE HARD ROAD – YOUTH GANG VIOLENCE IN RETROSPECT
LINKLATERS ALLEN & GLEDHILL SUPPORTS JAMIYAH’S PROJECT LEND-A-HAND
ISLAM AND WOMEN
HOW WELL HAS THE MEDIA INFORMED THE PUBLIC ABOUT CO2 LEVELS IN THE AIR?
RAMBLINGS OF HOLISTIC HEALTH AND MEDICINE (CONTINUATION)
THE MORAL SYSTEM IN REVEALED RELIGION
‘GIVE THE KIDS A SMILE’ FUNDRAISING DINNER
PROJECT “PRIME ARGUS”
THEOLOGICAL SPAM OR NOT QAUM-E-AAD MIRACLE OF THE QUR’AN
GOING BEYONG THE ORANG LAUT
NEW LEADERSHIP BUILDS ON THE STRONG FOUNDATION
QURANUL HUDA (QURANIC GUIDANCE)
MENCINTAI RASULULLAH BUKAN SETAHUN SEKALI
HASIL KETARA DARI SOKONGAN ANDA
MASYARAKAT ISLAM TIMOR LESTE PERLUKAN BANTUAN UNTUK BERBAGAI KEGIATAN
BISTARI BRUNEI JALIN KERJASAMA
KUIM TIMBA PENGALAMAN DI JAMIYAH
MAULIDUR RASUL SAW
KISAH SEJARAH PUNCA KESOMBONGAN IBLIS
AL MUZAFFAR PENCETUS SAMBUTAN MAULID
‘IKATAN BADAN AMAL ISLAM WILAYAH PERSEKUTUAN’ VISITS JAMIYAH
MAJLIS ULAMA FROM INDONESIA PK-RIAU
INISIATIF ABU BAKAR MAIDIN BINA DARUL ISLAH DISANJUNG
ARABIC ARTICLE
TAMIL ARTICLE
Praise be to Allah, Lord Cherisher and Sustainer of the Multiverse, the Cosmos.
Blessings, Peace and Benedictions upon each and everyone of the immaculate
Prophets and Messengers of Allah who were raised in all ancient nations and
the Seal and the Last of the Prophets and Messengers of Allah , Muhammad bin
Abdullah, the Mercy unto the Universe and the Sign unto Humanity.
"The President and Executive Council of
Jamiyah Singapore congratulate Prime
Minister Lee Hsien Loong, his PAP team
and all successful candidates in the recent General Elections .May this augur in a
more dynamic , wholesome future for multicultural, multireligious Singapore."
Brothers and Sisters, we are at the crossroads of our
existence as one of only two ideological communities,
one that denies the existence of God and the other
the Ummat Muhammadi which today feels the threats
of sustained Islamophobia, warring by the so-called
powers-that-be, and the volatile socio-economic
and political situation exacerbated by the intrigues
!"#$%&'& ($')"(*+$,*-"'.#"&/*"0) &-" !",')'"1#*"
intelligences which have existed since the time of
Hemphner and Philby.
The solution is simple to understand but the
$,0)*,*.&'&$ ."$-"#$!1%2)&3"4/*"- )2&$ ."$-"5)67-)',"
as understood by ulama/ scholars/intellectuals and
savants who are in awe of Allah and heed His Laws.
Genuine Islam- between versions of ignoramuses
and extremists- can save the world again as it
saved it during the dark ages.It is the religion of the
middle and moderating community which has been
*8*,0)$1*#"9:"&/*";( 0/*&"<2/',,'#"=0*'%*"
and blessings of Allah be upon him and his family)
Unlike the sages of the Axial Age, he single-handedly
initiated world movements against evils of every
shade
Even today with sexual deviance clearly proliferating
particularly in urban and suburban settings , the balance
that Islam provides between irreligious abandon of
modesty and chastity and unnatural strait-jacket sexual
codes is being re-visited by sociologists and therapists
particularly those who are familiar with Islamic family
stuctures and the more ideal Quranic recommendations.
The biggest need is to promote durable peace and
multifaith harmony by all means possible. Prophet
Muhammad made it possible with his call to the people
of scripture to come forward together on the basis
of Monotheism, his example in allowing the Najran
Christians to pray in the Masjid Nabawi and his historic
Eternal Protection for Christians Promise which we have
highlighted elsewhere in this issue. The challenge is to
implement his Ethics even in Self Defence which are
being marginalised and worse still rough trodden by
militant deviant deviationists who have absolutely no
regard for the sacredness of human life and who worse
still blaspheme the holy name of Islam and Prophet
Muhammad s.a.wassalam.
!"#$%&'(!)*+!,$-!./#(!0/!*-#$1!+2$+!0+!,$-!3.--04#&!5.'!-#$%&-!+.!4&6.1&!#&$7&'-!$/7!&%&/!
rulers of communities
!8&/7&'!*/&9:$#0+()!*-#$1!;$%&!,.1&/!3'.3&'+(!'0;2+-!&%&/!4&5.'&!+2&!<$''0&7!=.1&/>-!! !
?'.3&'+(!@6+!
!!!
!A6./.106!B33'&--0./)!*+!4$//&7!:-:'(!$/7!7&6#$'&7!+2$+!C=&$#+2!-2$##!/.+!60'6:#$+&!./#(!!!!!
!!!$1./;!+2&!,&$#+2(D!
!":3&'-+0+0./-!$/7!E$/+$-0&-)!*+!4$//&7!$-+'.#.;(F!-..+2-$(0/;!$/7!1$;06)
!=.'-203!.5!.+2&'!+2$/!8.7)!*-#$1!-$%&7!+2&!,.'#7!5'.1!#.-0/;!0+-!;'03!./!?:'&-+!E.'1!.5!! !!!
Monotheism.
!*;/.'$/6&!)!C"&&G!G/.,#&7;&!5'.1!+2&!6'$7#&!+.!+2&!;'$%&D)!H/0%&'-0+0&-!-3'$/;!:3!5'.1!!!!!
!!!1.-9:&-!$/7!1$7'$-$2-)
!I$-+&J0-1!C@##!2:1$/0+(!0-!$-!&9:$#!$-!+2&!+&&+2!.5!$!6.14)))))))))D
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!@;;'&--0%&!=$')!A%&/!4&5.'&!+2&!8&/&%$!I./%&/+0./-F!*-#$1!2$7!4$//&7!
$K!$;;'&--0%&!,$'-!
4K!-6.'62!&$'+2!3.#06(!
6K!:-0/;!L'&!$;$0/-+!.+2&'!2:1$/-!$/7!&%&/!#&--&'!6'&$+:'&-!,2062!.4+$0/-!+.7$(!!
!!!!,0+2!1.7&'/!L'&J$'1-F!2.,0+M&'-F!10--0#&-F!1&;$J6$//./-F!=<N-!$/7!
!!!!/:6#&$'!,$'2&$7-!$/7!4.14-)!*+!70-$##.,&7!3.0-./0/;!.5!,$+&'!62$//&#-F!!
!
!!!!70%&'+0/;!.5!0+F!5'0;2+&/0/;!.5!60%0#0$/-!$/7!/./!6.14$+$/+-F!7$1$;0/;!+2&!&$'+2F!!
!!!7&-+'.(0/;!.5!5':0+!$/7!.+2&'!6'.3-F!&%&/!0/!-&#5!7&5&/6&)
!
!
!
!?'.32&+!<:2$11$7!1$7&!0+!3.--04#&!+.!2$%&!!$!O02$7!$;$0/-+!,$'!F!$!O02$7!+.!6'010/$#0-&!!!!!!!!
!!!$##!,$'-!4:+!+2&!! A+206-!2&!013#&1&/+&7!1$G&-!:-!9:&-+0./!+2&!,$(!+.!7&5&/7!.:'!!!!!
!!!6.11:/0+0&-!$/7!/$+0./-)!A6./.106!"&#5!N&5&/6&P!A%&/!+.7$(!,0+2!+2&!-&'0.:-!7.:4+-!
!!!$4.:+!$/!0/+&'&-+!$/7!7&4+!'077&/!;#.4$#!&6./.106!-(-+&1F!+2&!&Q0-+&/6&!.5!%0$4#&!*-#$106!!!!!
!!!R$/G-!$/7!.+2&'!*-#$106!L/$/60$#!-0+:$+0./-F!1$G&-!3&.3#&!,./7&'!,2&+2&'!+2&(!-2.:#7!#..G!!!
!!!$+!+2&!$#+&'/$+0%&-!+.!-&6:#$'!0/-+0+:+0./-!0/!$!1.'&!+2.'.:;2!1$//&')!
04
VOI Volume 01/2011
SAMBUTAN MAULUD NABI SAW
DI STADIUM WOODLANDS
anjuran Jamiyah dan berbagai organisasi
Syabas kepada setiap Kontinjen yang telah menunjukkan ketangkasan
VOI Volume 01/2011
05
SYABAS kepada sekitar 73 kontinjen dari berbagai
kumpulan yang telah berbaris megah dan tangkas
sempena sambutan Maulidur Rasul anjuran Jamiyah
pada 19 Mac di Stadium Woodlands, dengan mendapat
tepukan gemuruh.
Mereka telah memperlihatkan berbagai kecekapan
dalam perbasian yang memakan masa sekitar satu jam.
Perarakan itu dijayakan oleh badan-badan Islam, budaya,
akar umbi, masjid, madrasah, institusi-institusi pengajian
tinggi, sukan, syarikat dan lain-lainnya. Seramai 3,000
anggota dari berbagai kontinjen itu telah berbaris bangga
dan sungguh-sungguh menjayakannya. Ternyata ia amat
memuaskan dan sangat mengagumkan.
Dengan membawa berbagai kain rentang bertemakan
“Keranamu Ya Rasulallah”, setiap mereka berbaris rapi
menunjukkan perpaduan dan semanagat muhibah serta
berjaya menyemarakkan kemeriahan sambutan Maulidur
Rasul saw.
Dengan langkah penuh tekad dan cukup bersemangat,
mereka melaungkan suara memuji-muji perjuangan
dan jasa bakti Rasulullah kepada umatnya. Gema suara
mereka berselawat dan melahirkan kecintaan kepada
pemimpin agung dunia Junjungan Rasulullah saw
menyemarakkan suasana sambutan sepanjang masa
perarakan itu.
Dalam masa itu juga, beberapa anggota kontinjen telah
memperlihatkan berbagai kebolahan mereka di depan
Tetamu Terhormat, Encik Hawazi Daipi, Setiausaha
Kanan Kementerian Tenaga Kerja merangkap Kesihatan. Turut menerima penghormatan
bersama tetamu terhormat dari kontinjen perbarisan itu ialah Haji Abdul Karim Maidin, Presiden
Jamiyah, dan lain-lain para undangan khas.
Para undangan itu dan ramai penonton telah bertepuk tangan meriah sambil mengucapkan
syabas apabila para pesilat dari Persekutuan Silat Singapura (Persisi). Para pesilat cilik seramai
54 kanak-kanak dari Silat Perguruan Grasio (Cawangan Marsiling) telah juga memperlihatkan
ketangkasan mereka dalam acara silat mempertahankan diri.
Mereka telah menunjukkan keindahan seni silat Melayu yang telah mereka pelajari dan hayati
itu. Tepukan gemuruh dari sekitar 6,000 penonton yang memenuhi stadium itu yang diberikan
amat menggembirakan mereka .
06
VOI Volume 01/2011
Seramai 40 pesilat mapan dari Tim Kesenian Majlis
Pusat pula mempersembahkan kecemerlangan silat
mereka dengan cara yang amat mempesonakan para
penontonnya dari berbagai peringkat usia dan bangsa.
Meski sebahagian dari para pesilat itu kelihatan “sudah
lanjut usia”, namun ketangkasan mereka memperlihatkan
gerakan-gerakan indah seni silat itu dengan gagah
perkasa, sungguh mempesonakan orang ramai,
khususnya para tetamu tadi.
Berbagai kontinjen dari badan-badan Indian Muslim
kemudian berbaris lalu dan memberi penghormatan
kepada para tetamu terhormat tadi sambil memperlihatkan
pukulan dan permainan hadrah dan kompang.
Antara kontinjen-kontinjen Indian Muslim yang menyertai
perarakan itu ialah: Kumpulan Hadrah India Muslims
Singapura, Persekutuan India Muslim (FIM), Kadayanallur
Muslim League, Persatuan Indian Muslim Bersatu,
Persekutuan Muslim Tenkasi, Jamatul Ulama India
Selatan, Persatuan Penguruf Wang Singapura, Masjid
Bencoolen, Alfalaaq Star Pendidikan dan Kebudayaan,
Persatuan Islam Thopputhurai, Persatuan Kebajikan
Kayapaltattinam dan Masjid Jame (Chulia).
Sementara kontinjen badan-badan Melayu ternama yang
menyertai perbarisan itu ialah:
MES Group of Companies, Yayasan Mendaki,
Sekolah Indonesia, Persatuan Bawean Singapuura,
Himpunan Persatuan Islam/Jaafar Muslim Association,
Naqshabandi. Kumupulan Nasyid Al Madani, Kumpulan
Belia Al Madani, Muslim Kidney Action Association,
Persatuan Artis Singapura, Kumpulan Nasyid Mustajabah,
15 kumpulan hadrah yang bergabung dengan Persatuan
Hadrah Kompang Singapura (PEHAKS) dan Persatuan
Putra serta para penghuni, para anggota jawatankuasa
dan para sukarelawan berbagai jawatan rumah-rumah
kebajikan dan tumpangan serta berbagai jabatan
Jamiyah.
Berlanagsungnya kehebatan perarakan dan ketangkasan
perbarisan para anggota berbagai kontinjen itu adalah
hasil pimpinan komandernya Encik Slemat Rakisan.
VOI Volume 01/2011
07
Sementara itu, Naib Presiden Ketiga Jamiyah Encik Ismail Mohd Roziz merangkap Setiausaha Sambutan Maulidur
Rasul mengucapkan syabas dan berterima kasih kepada setiap pihak yang telah berusaha menjayakan perbarisan itu
dan acara-acara lain yang telah dijalankan dari jam 4.00 petang – 10.30 malam.
.
Antaranya ialah Nasyid dari Nurul Mustajabah dan Almadani, bacaan al Quran oleh Encik Wan Ainuddin Hilmi Abdullah,
Naib Juara Tilawah Al Quran Antarabangsa 2010, Ustaz Nor Muhammad Ali, Naib Juara Tilawah Al Quran Kawasan
Utara Singapura 2010, syarahan oleh Prof. Madya Dr. Sharifah Hayaati Syed Ismail (Malaysia), Ustaz Badli Shah
Alauddin (Malaysia) dan Moulvi Khalil Ahamad Hasanoi.
Turut memeriahkan acara ialah ucapan oleh Tetamu Terhormat. Encik Hawazi Daipi, Haji Abdul Karim Maidin dan Haji
Nasser Ghani mewakili Pengerusi Bersama Jawatankuasa Sambutan dan Pengerusi MES Holdings Hj SM Abdul Jalil.
Kumpulan HIJJAZ dan Haji O H Abdul Majeed turut menyemarakkan majlis dengan beberapa buah lagu berunsur
agama. – Sulaiman Jeem.
MENCINTAI RASUL SEHARUSNYA
MELEBIHI DIRI SENDIRI
- Ingatan Presiden Jamiyah
TUAN Haji Abdul Karim Maidin, Presiden Jamiyah mengingatkan bahawa
mencintai Rasulullah s.a.w. adalah satu prinsip agama yang penting, kerana seseorang itu tidak dianggap beriman
sehingga ia benar-benar mencintai Rasulullah s.a.w. melebihi dirinya sendiri.
Beliau menambah: mencintai Rasulullah s.a.w. bukan sekadar hanya taat kepada
sunnah baginda, tetapi hendaklah kita bersungguh-sungguh menyampaikan
pengajarannya demi menyambung tugasan baginda. Andai tugasan dakwah
baginda tidak ada kesinambungan, pasti sunnahnya akan mati dengan digantikan
amalan yang bercanggah dengan syarak.
Berucap di majlis Sambutan Maulidur Rasul anjuran Jamiyah dan badan-badan Islam setempat di Stadium
Woodlands baru-baru ini, beliau menekankan: “Mencintai Rasulullah s.a.w. bermakna baginda sentiasa di hati kita.
Oleh itu kita hendaklah memperbanyakkan membaca serta mempelajari sejarah hidup baginda serta berusaha
menjadikan perjalanan hidupnya sebagai cahaya penyuluh perjalanan kita.
“Mencintai Rasulullah bererti kita mencintai mereka yang dicintai s.a.w. Antara tanda cinta kita kepada baginda
s.a.w. ialah mencintai mereka yang dicintai baginda seperti para isterinya, ahli-ahli keluarga dan para sahabatnya
serta seluruh umat Islam, yang berpegang teguh kepada ajaran baginda.” Rasulullah s.a.w. berhak meraih cinta
umatnya kerana baginda adalah makhluk yang paling mulia di sisi Allah memiliki akhlak luhur dan jalan yang lurus.
Baginda juga mengasihi, memberi petunjuk dan menyelamatkan umatnya dari neraka serta menjadi rahmat kepada
seluruh alam atau “rahmatan lil alamin”.
Beliau seterusnya menyatakan bahawa para ulama dan para pemimpin dunia mengakui Rasulullah s.a.w. seorang
pemimpin yang banyak boleh diteladani oleh sesiapa sahaja yang berhasrat hendak mencontohinya. Baginda
memang dikenali seorang pemimpin umat yang tiada tandingannya. Beliau mengharapkan mudah-mudahan Allah
akan memberi kita petunjuk dan barakah terhadap usaha kita mengikuti jejak baginda dan mencintainya serta
meneladani segala kebaikan dan akhlak murninya. Amin!
berjalan lancar. Dalam kesempatan ini juga,
marilah kita mengucapkan syukur kepada
Allah kerana telah memulihkan kesihatan
Tuan S.M.A. Abdul Jaleel, Pengerusi Bersama
Jawatankuasa penganjur majlis ini merangkap
Pengerusi MES Holdings yang terlibat dalam
nahas jalan raya di Johor baru-baru ini.
Di samping itu, marilah kita mengucapkan
takziah yang mendalam kepada beliau atas
kembalinya ke rahmatullah ibundanya,
Allahyarhamha Syedunisa Bi anak perempuan
kepada Syed Noor, yang telah meninggal
dunia akibat nahas tersebut. Mudah-mudahan
Allah mencucuri rahmat ke atas rohnya. Amin!
Mengakhiri ucapan ini, sekali lagi beliau
mengucapkan terima kasih kepada Tetamu
Terhormat, kepapda para pensyarah, kepada
para qari, kepada kumpulan nasyid, dan
kepada sesiapa sahaja yang telah berusaha
menjayakan majlis sambutan ini.
Mudah-mudahan segala penat lelaj dan
usaha baik tuan-tuan dan puan-puan itu akan
diberkati Allah s.w.t. dan diberikan rahmatNya.
Terdahulu beliau beterima kasih kepada para penduduk Islam di Woodlands serta masjid-masjid dengan sokongan
badan-badan Islam Woodlands serta masjid-masjid setempat yang bersama-sama menyokong uasaha Jamiyah ini.
Tuan-tuan dan puan-puan yang saya hormati.
Dalam kesempatan ini, suka saya ingatkan bahawa rumah tumpangan anak-anak yatim Darul Ma’wa di Chin Cheng
Avenue, akan mula berpindah ke rumah barunya di Guillemard Crescent, tidak lama lagi. Rumah baru anak-anak yatim
itu, yang lebih selesa dari bangunannya yang ada sekarang, masih memerlukan sekitar $300,000 untuk mengubah
elok dan membeli berbagai perabutnya. Justeru, saya menyeru masyarakat umum, khususnya tuan-tuan dan puanpuan sudi menghulurkan derma supaya rancangan pemindahan anak-anak yatim Darul Ma’wa ke rumah baru mereka
08
VOI Volume 01/2011
SPEECH OF
HAJI S.M.ABDUL JALEEL
DELIVERED BY HAJI NASEER GHANI
Prophet Muhammad’s (pbuh) Birthday Celebrations 2011
Organized by Jamiyah Singapore and Muslim Residents of Woodlands
with the support of Muslim organizations and business houses
Woodlands Stadium: Sat 19 March 2011 (14 Rabiulakhir 1432H)
SPEECH BY HAJI S.M.ABDUL JALEEL,
CO-CHAIRMAN OF THE ORGANIZING COMMITTEE
DELIVERED ON HIS BEHALF BY HAJI NASEER GHANI
VOI Volume 01/2011
09
The Honourable Guest of Honour Haji Hawazi Daipi, Senior Parliamentary Secretary, Ministry of Manpower and Ministry of Health,
Diplomats from the various diplomatic missions in Singapore
Faith leaders representing different religious groups in Singapore
Tuan Haji Abu Bakar Maidin, Executive Consultant, Jamiyah Singapore
Haji Abdul Karim Maidin, President of Jamiyah
;(*-$#*.&-"'.#">!1%$')-"(*0(*-*.&$.+"?'($ 2-"<2-)$,"@A>-B"< -C2*-"<'.'+*,*.&"D ,,$&&**-B"*#2%'&$ ."%*.&(*Invited guests
Ladies and Gentlemen
Assalaamualaikum Wr Wb and May the Peace and blessings of Almighty God be with us all.
>."9*/')!" !"E'F$"G"<"59#2)"H')**)B"&/*"D 6D/'$(,'." !"&/*">(+'.$I$.+"D ,,$&&**" !"&/$-", -&"-$+.$1%'.&"'..2')"*?*.&"% ,,*, ('&$.+" 2(";( 0/*&" !"7-)',"<2/',,'#"
=092/JB")*&",*"1(-&):"*8&*.#"'"?*(:"K'(,"K*)% ,*"& " 2("E . 2('9)*"A2*-&" !"E . 2("E'F$"E'K'I$"L'$0$"! ("F $.$.+"2-"'&"&/$-"*?*.&"'.#"& "*'%/"'.#"*?*(:" .*" !": 2" 2("-$.%*(*"
thanks and happiness to see so many of you participating in this occasion. As many of you are aware Haji Jaleel met with a car accident a few weeks ago and lost his beloved
mother in that ‘’musibah’’. He is currently resting and recuperating and hence cannot join us today at this occasion. Let us read sura ál fathiha’ and pray to Allah s.w.t. for him to
recover quickly.
Ladies and Gentlemen.
Today, the world is witnessing events that only go to prove the supremacy of God Almighty who is the creator, sustainer and protector of the entire creation. It is His boundless
mercy and grace that protect the entire universe including mankind. The Messenger of Allah s.w.t. Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) is one such mercy of Him who has been sent with
the message of peace and piety in the form of the faith of Islam. By his words and deeds the Prophet of Islam has shown the most noble and illustrious examples for adherence
by mankind, of the values such as peace and tranquility. He has given the most comprehensive guidance to us regarding love, kindness and humility and passion for seeking
knowledge and laid down the ways for seeking means of livelihood without harming anyone including the eco system and the environment. It is for such noble guidance that we
are to remain thankful to Allah s.w.t. and to His Prophet.
An occasion like this is yet another opportunity for us to reminisce and remind ourselves of the noble guidance of our Prophet Muhammad (pbuh).
7."&/$-"(*-0*%&" ."9*/')!" !"'))"&/*"0'(&$%$0'&$.+" (+'.$I'&$ .-" !"&/$-"-$+.$1%'.&"*?*.&B"*-0*%$')):"&/*"7.#$'."<2-)$,"5-- %$'&$ .-B"7"K 2)#")$M*"& "0)'%*" 2("/*'(&!*)&"&/'.M-"& "E'F$"
Abu Bakar Maidin, the Executive Consultant of Jamiyah and its President Hj Abdul Karim Maidin for the wonderful opportunity that has been given to us to join in the organization of this great event. Let us resolve and rededicate ourselves to further enhance our efforts to work closely with one another and establish close bonding with fellow Singaporeans belonging to different faiths and races and strive to achieve a society of peace, harmony and progress, Ameen.
Once again our sincere thanks to our Guest of Honour Haji Hawazi Daipi and all our special guests.
N'9$))'/$"&'21C"N')"E$#':'/"
Wassalamualaikkum Wr Wb
10
VOI Volume 01/2011
In the name of God,
7.1.$&*):"A('%$ 2-B"7.1.$&*):"<'+.'.$, 2-
MUHAMMAD BIN ABDULLAH
WORLD TEACHER AND MERCY
UNTO THE UNIVERSE
(Peace and Blessings of Allah Be Upon Him)
VOI Volume 01/2011
02/2011
11
INTRODUCTION
One God
One Cosmos
One Humanity
One Revealed Religion, many divine editions at different times, all going through the process of history and being
“historised.” The saving grace of the last divine edition is that it has an immutable scripture.
Since the very beginning of human society, God had chosen the perfect moral and spiritual models among human
beings in all ancient nations, to guide their fellow men to the right path. They were the Prophets and Messengers of
God who received or followed revelation for this purpose. The basis of the teachings of these role models was that
humans should worship and serve God alone and to do good to their fellow humans.
According to Islamic tradition there were more than one hundred thousand of them but the Quran clearly mentions
only 25. Among them were Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, Jesus, David, Solomon and John. Muhammad came as
the Seal of the Prophets after whom there were no other Prophets or Messengers.
“… and there is not a nation but a warner has gone among them” (Quran 35: 24)
“And for every nation there is a messenger” (Quran 10: 47)
Many scriptures of different religions mentioned the coming of a World Teacher and some contemporaries of
Muhammad such as Waraqa ibn Naufal believed that Muhammad was the awaited one.
Muhammad received through revelation from God the Arabic term for it namely “Al-Islam” which means “Submission”
or “Total Obedience”. The root term of the word “Islam” SLM is the basis of the term Salam or Peace. By submitting
to the Laws of God, sincerely, humans receive Peace in their hearts, Peace with their fellow humans and with nature
that grand theatre of the Signs of God.
MECCA AT THE TIME OF THE BIRTH OF THE PROPHET
Unlike most Prophets and Messengers of God, Prophet Muhammad was born in the full light of history and into a
society where people were renowned for their prodigious memory and their eloquence in their language. From among
them came companions who memorized each and every verse of the Quran which they later wrote on bones, polished
skins, blades of bones, wood etc etc. These were checked word for word with the Prophet himself during his life-time.
Less commonly a few of them wrote down, separately from the Quran, the words of the Prophet regarding for
*8',0)*"&/*"(2)*-"(*+'(#$.+"&/*"02($1%'&$ ."&'8"=I'M'&JB"&/*"% ?*.'.&"K$&/"D/($-&$'.-" !"@'F('.B"'. &/*("#*-%($9*#"'-"
a charter of love, a copy of which is still kept at St. Anne’s Monastery in Sinai, Egypt, the Madinah Agreement and
the letters which the Prophet sent out to different world leaders some of which have been collected and preserved in
a Jordanian museum.
The Quran and those traditions written in his life-time remain the best source for the life of Muhammad.
THE LIFE OF MUHAMMAD
Muhammad was born in Mecca in the year 570 A.C. into the noble but impoverished Banu Hashim clan of the Quraish
people who were descended from Ishmael the elder son of Prophet Abraham. As the Old Testament tells us when
Isaac was born Ishmael was already 12 years old.
The Ishmaelite clan took care of the ancient shrine the Ka’bah which they believed was the House of the worship
of God rebuilt by their ancestor Abraham on the very site where Adam built the earliest House of Worship on earth
(*O*%&*#"$."&/*";-')," !"L'?$#"K/$%/"-&'&*-"
“I long for the House of the Lord in the valley of Baca”. Curious to note that the Quran uses the term Baca and not
Mecca.
The year of Muhammad’s birth was known as the Year of the Elephant because in that year the army of Abraha Al
Ashram the Yemenite governor of a Christian King attacked Mecca with his war elephants. He wanted the temple
in Sanaa, Yemen, not Adam’s Ka’bah, to be the focus
of pilgrimage. The Meccans were more concerned
about their worldly things but the invaders were not.
The Meccans did not defend their holy city but retired
to the mountains and observed the scene from afar. The
Prophet’s grandfather Abdul Mutalib secured his livestock from Abraha which shocked the latter because he
/'#"&/ 2+/&"&/'&"59#2)"<2&'))$9P-"1(-&"% .%*(."K 2)#"9*"
the safety of the Ka’bah. Abdul Mutalib told a shocked
Abraha that he knew that God would protect the Ka’bah
afterall it was called the House of God.
N/'&"&/*:"-'K"K'-"-/ %M$.+3"5"O %M" !"O:$.+"%(*'&2(*-"
-whether birds or insects it cannot be ascertained/'#" O K." '9 ?*" &/*" '(,:" '.#" '), -&" $,,*#$'&*):"
the soldiers were strewn all over, dead as if struck by
a mysterious and deadly epidemic. As Muhammad’s
grandfather Abdul Mutalib had predicted God would
protect the Ka’bah. The earliest Arab historians record
&/'&"$&"K'-"&/*"1(-&"&$,*"&/'&"'."*0$#*,$%"/'#"% ,*"& "
Mecca.
This is recalled in the sublime Quran:
Are you not aware of how your Lord-Sustainer dealt
with the owners of the elephant? Did He not make their
stratagem go astray? And He sent against them great
-K'(,-" !" O:$.+" %(*'&2(*-3N/$%/" 0*)&*#" &/*," K$&/"
stone of backed-clay and made them like green crops
had been eaten up.”(Quran 105: 1-5)
Mecca was a pagan society although there were a
sprinkling of Nestorian Christians and Jews who were
probably Arabs who were converted to Judaism.
Confronted by the evils of their society, there were a few
individuals who were searching for the truth. They were
known as the Hunafa of whom Muhammad was one.
Nonetheless they did not move as one group.
The main attraction of Mecca was the Ka’bah. It was
just a cube-shaped structure because Adam with
his knowledge could have built a huge and imposing
cathedral but settled for the simplest architectural form.
He did not know whether to build it until a meteorite
fell at where the Ka’bah now stands. He placed it at
the corner of the Ka’bah. Today this stone known as
the Hajar Aswad or Black Stone is the only remnant
of that original House of the Worship of God. Thus the
tremendous sentiments of the Muslims about the only
relic from those meta-historical times. But Muslims
don’t worship it and one notes that even the pagan
Arabs also never worshipped it.
Abraham and his son Ishmael raised the foundations of
the Ka’bah together with the Hajar Aswad. Over time
the Ka’bah became desecrated with the installation of
more than 360 idols but the Arabs still knew the original
12
VOI Volume 01/2011
02/2011
history of the Ka’bah and the stories of Adam and Eve,
Abraham, Ishmael and Hagar.
by true valour and courage, the males distinguished
themselves with recklessness and arrogance.
Adam and Eve had met around that place and had asked
for forgiveness from God at nearby Arafah which is so
named because they knew or recognised each other there
after a long separation. Indeed Jeddah (Grandmother)
was so-called because Eve was reported to have
died there. Very close to the Ka’bah is the well-known
station of Abraham symbolizing the work of Abraham in
rebuilding the Ka’bah.
There was super-power rivalry even in those days. The
Byzantine Empire confronted the Persian Sassanid. They
surrounded the Arabs with their political and worldly
machinations. They were the most powerful in those times
and characterized greed for power and aggression. Their
subjects were often oppressed and their client states
from among the Arabs such as Egypt, Palestine and Syria
under the Byzantines and Iraq under the Sassanid, were
servile and humbled. While Byzantine and the Sassanid
empires were highly literate, Mecca and Medina were not.
On the other hand they were highly oral societies where
the spoken word had reached extremely high levels.
When Ishmael and Hagar miraculously discovered
the Zam Zam spring which saved them from thirst, a
well was built and maintained to this very day after the
Prophet’s grandfather re-discovered it. The pilgrimage
also commemorated their desperate search for water
between the hillocks of Safa and Marwah.
Whether it was Adam and Eve, or their children, Abraham,
E'+'("'.#"&/*$("- ."7-/,'*)"&/*"&(2*"1(-&"9 (." !"59('/',B"
they all prayed in the Ka’bah –the oldest mosque - which
protected them from the terrible heat and dust of the
desert. These days the millions not being able to enter the
Ka’bah circulate it in an anti-clockwise manner. Perhaps
in deference to the natural movements of many things in
nature such as the orbit of planets and movements in the
molecular worlds. This very law of nature is itself from the
Law of the Absolute. In like manner Muhammad and his
contemporaries also did the same , both the pagans and
the truth seekers known as the Hunafa.
People came from far and wide in pilgrimage to the
Ka’bah. There was much business prospects and goods
came from as far as China, India, Byzantium and the
Sassanid Persian Empire. Silk and Camphor, spices,
iron, gold, fruits, cattle and dried meats, handicrafts were
among the items traded. There were fabulous poetry
competitions and fairs but the famous one was at ‘Ukadh
situated between the main trading route connecting South
Arabia with Syria. Apart from the Christians and the Jews,
there were people who came there for business who were
known to be Majusis or Zoroastrians from Persia, and
Sabians from Iraq whose origins were obscure.
Whatever pristine religion the Arabs inherited they had
discredited severely with their misinterpretations and
misdeeds.
The situation can be described by these words from the
Quran:
“Corruption has appeared on land and sea because of
what the hands of men have earned” (Quran 30: 41)
THE BIRTH AND INFANCY
OF MUHAMMAD
Muhammad’s father Abdullah had died six months before
he was born. Although the Quran does not mention it,
Islamic lore has it that he had a clear light between his
eyes before his marriage to Amina and this light was
transferred to Muhammad a more lighted person the
Arabs had never seen before, whose mere countenance
shone with love and spirituality.
Overtime the Arabs had degenerated not just with their
terrible vices but had also blasphemed by paying homage
to the idols completely ignoring the fact that the Ka’bah
stood for the uncompromising worship of the One True
God. Over and above this rampant paganism was the fact
that female infanticide was practiced. Sexual prowess
in having many women was considered a manly virtue.
Some women had several male paramours. Obscene
vulgar poems were recited in public and these unruly
townsfolk allowed prostitution and adultery.
Tradition has it there were miracles surrounding the birth
of Muhammad. So if God celebrated the birth of the
Prophet why not Muslims? His mother Aminah had a
vision about the child by which she obtained the name
“Muhammad” (the praised one) mentioned in the earlier
scriptures, the very same name that his grandfather
dreamt about. When he told the Quraish leaders about
the name he had chosen, they enquired for his reason
for doing so and he replied “I want him to be praised by
God in the heavens and humans on earth.” During her
pregnancy, a light shone out from Aminah through which
she saw the castles of Syria. A weakened Aminah gave
him his milk but entrusted him, after a short period to a
foster mother Halimah Sa’adiah from the desolate desert
of her Banu Sa’d tribe as was the practice of the Arabs.
Apart from the tough ladies who stood their ground,
women and slaves were oppressed and cruel practices
involved the torture of animals rather than be guided
Halimah had hesitated to be the milking mother because
Muhammad was an orphan and came from a poor family
but she could not go back to the desert without a child so
VOI Volume 02/2011
13
she ultimately took him. She never regretted it because
he brought clear blessings to her and her family. Her
breasts swelled with milk when he was around when
before it was almost empty. There in the desert of Banu
Sa’d he picked up the most exquisite of Arab dialects,
breathed the pure desert air and marveled at the grand
expanse of the sky, a stark contrast to the hustle and
bustle of Mecca. There after being showered with the
exquisite gentleness of his mother Aminah, he learned
to respect the loving traits and gentleness of the fairer
sex particularly Halimah a sentiment which is found in a
well known saying of his “Three things I love, women,
the coolness of the eyes during prayer and perfumes”
which only the most vulgar, the most debased won’t
understand. “There are many valuables in the world and
the most valuable is a good woman” These sentiments of
his were underlined by Divine Revelation which he was
blessed with later on.
… fear God through Whom you demand your mutual
rights and the wombs … (Quran 4: 1).
Muhammad learned to play with his foster sister Hudhafah
=G/:,''J"$." 0*."1*)#-3"E$-") ?*"! ("'.$,')-"0'(&$%2)'():"
horses, his sportsmanship and agility, his perseverance
and patience and awe for the Signs of God in the theatre
of Nature could be traced to those early days. His wanting
to be alone with God in the wilderness as he did when he
climbed up the rugged mountain to meditate in a cave
after his marriage with Khadijah also could be traced to
his infancy in the desert.
When he was a mere baby his foster-sister used to
carry him in her arms to help her mother. Both women
converted to Islam in the latter years and the Prophet
gave them honour and respect then, standing up for them
and offering his place for them to sit on.
His mother died, during a journey to Medinah with him,
when he was only six. They were accompanied by
Q'('M'/3" 4/*(*" /*" )*'(.*#" & " O:" M$&*-" '.#" -K$," $." '."
'(&$1%$')"0 )"'.#"/*"K'-"&'M*."%'(*"?*(:"9($*O:"9:"&/*$("
African lady-attendant Umm ‘Aiman before his paternal
grandfather Abdul Mutalib the grand patriarch of the
Banu Hashim, the guardian of the Ka’bah took over. He
was a highly respected Quraishi who was known for his
charity. It was said that he often left food for the birds
and animals in the mountains. It was Abdul Mutallib who
was guided by a vision to search and dig for the ancient
well of Zam Zam which Hagar the mother of his lineal
ancestor Prophet Ishmael miraculously discovered when
9 &/"K*(*"'!O$%&*#"K$&/"+(*'&"&/$(-&3
Abdul Mutallib never left the lovely orphan Muhammad
alone and realized that the child was destined for great
things. He had heard that a light issued from Aminah’s
body when she was pregnant, and also of the blessings
poor Halimah enjoyed when she took care of Muhammad
so much so that when the child was to be returned to his
mother, the whole tribe came out with presents for the
infant.
The child was a beautiful bundle of joy but Abdul Mutallib
did not live much longer and the child was again handed
over to yet another caregiver Muhammad’s paternal uncle
Abu Talib. Muhammad was a shepherd boy and learned
the gentle ways of taking care of goats. He ran, climbed
trees and plucked sweet black berries. Unlike other boys
he did not fancy going to those noisy market fairs that
Mecca was famous for nor was he frivolous in his ways. It
appeared that he was not fated to do childish or wasteful
things. He was never known to placate an idol or draw
divining arrows. Twice he had wanted to listen to the Arab
storytellers at the fair with their vivid dramatizations and
twice he fell asleep.
Muhammad who had never known the love of a father
and had lost loved ones naturally clung to Abu Talib and
despite misgivings by Abu Talib followed the latter on his
business journeys to Syria. He was then merely a lad of
twelve.
The Christians like the Jews were awaiting for a Messenger
of God to appear. For the Christians it was for a paraclete
or paraklytus. Muslims believe that these predictions are
in the scripture for example the Taurah (Torah) and the Injil
(Evangel) and this belief was underlined when converts
from among those people entered Islam. Accordingly,
')&/ 2+/". &",*.&$ .*#"-0*%$1%')):"$."&/*"R2('.B""&/*(*"
were two Christian monks, at different times, who studied
the appearance and behaviour of Muhammad the lad
while considering whether he was the realization of
prophecy. They were Buhaira of Syria who warned Abu
Talib about the dangers Muhammad’s enemies would
pose to him and in a story not completely accepted by
the scholars of Islam, there was Nastura also of Syria who
scanned Muhammad thoroughly and actually brought out
the scripture to ascertain the truth.
CONDITION OF THE
ARABS
Let us quote Fazlur Rahman Ansari “ ….the Arab
cult of worship was a magical cult based on sheer
polydaemonism and fetish-worship possessing not even
the faintest semblance of any civilizing features…….the
outlook in respect of life was based on a thorough-going
Pessimism.” In respect of social structure, the most
14
VOI Volume 02/2011
ferocious and inhuman form of tribalism that had led to prolonged internecine wars and tremendous social mischief.
“The pessimistic nihilistic outlook had very naturally led the pagan Arabs to full-blooded Hedonism in the domain
of morality. For them, it was a bad world and life was a bad bargain. The pursuit of wealth, wine and woman
had, therefore become their greatest passion, to which the praises of voluptousness in pre-Islamic poetry bear
full testimony.” “Along with hedonism as their basic moral philosophy, the pagan Arabs possessed certain moral
concepts like loyalty, generosity, courage, patience, veracity and regard for honour.”
Its loyalty was primitive and rooted to the maxim “My tribe, right or wrong”. Generosity was tied up with vainglory
and ostentatiousness, not charity.Courage was in truth recklessness and tied up with a boastful spirit and thus could
end with cruel bloodshed. They were forthright but their sense of veracity could also be vulgar utterly devoid from a
sense of balance. Their sense of honour gave rise to arrogance and demeaned the base-born, slaves and the less
fortunate.
As a young man Muhammad observed the feuds of the pagan Arabs, their debasing superstitions, their cruel actions
'))"(*O*%&*#"$."&/*"R2('.S
“And when the female infant buried alive is questioned: For what sin was she slain?” (Quran 81: 8-9)
This referred to the terrible crime of female infanticide. Sometimes even infant males were buried alive as well. There
was gross dishonesty in their business life.“Woe to those who give short measure: those who, when they are to
receive their due from people, demand that it be given in full but when they have to measure or weigh to men, give
)*--"&/'."K/'&"$-"#2*TU"=R2('."VWS"X6WJ""YN *"2.& "*?*(:"-)'.#*(*("'.#"!'2)&61.#*("K/ "','--*-"K*')&/"'.#"% 2.&-"
it a safeguard thinking that his wealth will make him last forever! (Quran 104: 1-3) “The gross desire of abundance
engrosses you”(Quran 102:1)
Their horrendous raids exploited cruelly the sturdy speedy Arab stallions
"Y>/"&/*"-&**#-"&/'&"(2."0'.&$.+B"-&($M$.+"-0'(M-" !"1(*B"(2-/$.+"& "'--'2)&"'&", (.B"&/*(*9:"('$-$.+"%) 2#-" !"#2-&B"
thereby storming (blindly) unto any host! …” (Quran 100: 1)
"=G*)!6J#*-&( :*#"K*(*"&/*" K.*(-" !"&/*"#$&%/"3>!"&/*"!2*)6!*#"1(*B"=ZJ"N/*."&/*:"-'&"9:"$&B"5.#"K*(*"&/*,-*)?*-"&/*"
witnesses of what they did to the believers. (Quran 85: 4-7)
7&"$-"9*-&". &"& "&')M"'9 2&"&/*$("$(('&$ .')"!*&$-/*-B"-20*(-&$&$ .-"'-"$&"$-"'"(*O*%&$ ." !"/ K"0* 0)*"K/ "$./*($&*#"'"
monotheistic and wholesome religion degenerated into veritable pagans. They lacked morality and spirituality or any
sense of balance but people like Abu Talib and his son Ali were different. They had nobility, generosity and they were
humane. They loved Muhammad and he looked for other people like them and the Arabs were certainly not bereft
of that minority of men and women with sterling qualities. Islam was to make their qualities shine in open history.
EARLY SIGNS
5"1(*"/'#"*.+2)!*#"&/*"['P9'/"&/*"E 2-*" !"&/*"N (-/$0" !"A #"92$)&"9:"5#',"'.#"'!&*("(*92$)#$.+"&/*"['P9'/"&/*"
Arab chieftains could not decide who could place the Black Stone in its corner, the only remnant of the original
Ka’bah which was therefore of great sentimental value to them. Each one of them wanted the honour of doing it but
&/*(-"#$-'+(**#3"7&"K'-"#*%$#*#"&/'&"&/*"1(-&"0*(- ."K/ "&2(.*#"20"K 2)#"/'?*"&/*"/ . 2(3"5-"!'&*"K 2)#"/'?*"$&B"
Muhammad As Sadiq wal Ameen, the Honest Trustworthy One turned up. He obliged them, and placing the stone
on a large piece of cloth, asked the chieftains to carry up the cloth by its corners and thus be equally honoured. No
one objected to Muhammad Al Aameen actually putting the stone in the corner of the Ka’bah. Thus he stopped them
from falling into dispute over the issue.
Muhammad was called Ameen because he was honest and trustworthy to a fault and even during the period of
hostilities his enemies sometimes kept their valuables with him because of his reputation.There was a movement
known as Hilf Fudul a League which some brave souls set up to help people against tyranny, rescue stranded people
and others in grave trouble. Muhammad then only 25 years old supported them. Here was a meaningful thing to do
'0'(&"!( ,"# $.+"592"4')$9P-"*(('.#-"'.#"&'M$.+"%'(*" !"&/*"O %M3"7."/$-")'&*(":*'(-"/*"-0 M*"K$&/". -&')+$'"'9 2&"&/*"
Hilf Fudul of which he was an active participant. ”It is more valuable to me than red camels.“ he said.
In his later youthhood, he worked for a rich and twice-widowed lady known as Khadijah Khuwailid. She was
approached by Muhammad’s paternal uncle himself Abu Talib and Khadijah was overwhelmed when he requested
VOI Volume 01/2011
15
that she employ him for her caravans. She asked
“Was it not he who said ‘A man without trust is a man
without faith and a man without loyalty or scruple is a
man without religion” Khadijah was one of those very
resourceful woman who could stand on her own feet in
a terribly chauvinistic society. He followed her business
caravans to Syria and Basra for which he was paid four
camels for each caravan mission. Even this he presented
& "592"4')$9"&/2-",$&$+'&$.+"&/*"1.'.%$')"92(#*." ."&/*"
latter. It appeared he had even gone to Bahrain and
Yemen. Among the goods that he traded in were blue
and black clothes for turbans. But he never forgot the
poor for whom he drew water from the wells and milked
their goats. He always provided a patient ear to their
woes.
Such was his personality and attractiveness that Kadijah
proposed marriage to him although he was a mere 25
and she was already forty. The marriage was a great
blessing for both of them.
?SB?TAUV"!AUASW@X!?SB<*"A!UB!!
ITS*"U*@W"
By Dr. Muqtedar Khan
<2-)$,-" '.#" D/($-&$'.-" & +*&/*(" % .-&$&2&*" ?*(" 1!&:"
percent of the world and if they lived in peace, we will
be half way to world peace. One small step that we can
take towards fostering Muslim-Christian harmony is to
tell and retell positive stories and abstain from mutual
demonization. In this article I propose to remind both
Muslims and Christians about a promise that Prophet
Muhammed (pbuh) made to Christians. The knowledge
of this promise can have enormous impact on Muslim
conduct towards Christians. Muslims generally respect
the precedent of their Prophet and try to practise it in
their lives.
In 628 AD, a delegation from St. Catherine’s Monastery
came to Prophet Muhammed and requested his
protection. He responded by granting them a charter
of rights, which I reproduce below in its entirety. St.
Catherine’s Monastery is located at the foot of Mt. Sinai
and is the world’s oldest monastery. It possess a huge
collection of Christian manuscripts, second only to the
Vatican, and is a world heritage site. It also boasts the
oldest collection of Christian icons. It is a treasure house
of Christian history that has remained safe for 1400
years under Muslim protection.
The Promise to St. Catherine:
“This is a message from Muhammad ibn Abdullah, as a
covenant to those who adopt Christianity, near and far,
we are with them.
Verily I, the servants, the helpers, and my followers
defend them, because Christians are my citizens; and
by Allah! I hold out against anything that displeases
them.
No compulsion is to be on them. Neither are their judges
to be removed from their jobs nor their monks from
their monasteries. No one is to destroy a house of their
religion, to damage it, or to carry anything from it to the
Muslims’ houses.
Should anyone take any of these, he would spoil God’s
covenant and disobey His Prophet. Verily, they are my
allies and have my secure charter against all that they
hate.
No one is to force them to travel or to oblige them to
1+/&3" 4/*" <2-)$,-" '(*" & " 1+/&" ! (" &/*,3" 7!" '" !*,')*"
Christian is married to a Muslim, it is not to take place
without her approval. She is not to be prevented from
visiting her church to pray. Their churches are to be
respected. They are neither to be prevented from
repairing them nor the sacredness of their covenants.
No one of the nation (Muslims) is to disobey the
covenant till the Last Day (end of the world).”
person. I think the capacity to seek good and do good
inheres in all of us. When we subdue this predisposition
towards the good, we deny our fundamental humanity.
7" / 0*" '))" !" 2-" %'." 1.#" &$,*" & " ) M" ! (" - ,*&/$.+"
positive and worthy of appreciation in the values,
cultures and histories of other peoples.
4/*" 1(-&" '.#" &/*" 1.')" -*.&*.%*" !" &/*" %/'(&*(" '(*"
critical. They make the promise eternal and universal.
Muhammed asserts that Muslims are with Christians
near and far straight away rejecting any future attempts
to limit the promise to St. Catherine alone. By ordering
Muslims to obey it until the Day of Judgment the charter
again undermines any future attempts to revoke the
privileges. These rights are inalienable. Muhammed
declared Christians, all of them, as his allies and he
equated ill treatment of Christians with violating God’s
covenant.
A remarkable aspect of the charter is that it imposes no
conditions on Christians for enjoying its privileges. It is
enough that they are Christians. They are not required
to alter their beliefs, they do not have to make any
payments and they do not have any obligations. This is
a charter of rights without any duties!
The document is not a modern human rights treaty but
even though it was penned in 628 A.D. it clearly protects
the right to property, freedom of religion, freedom of
work, and security of the person.
I know most readers, must be thinking so what? Well
the answer is simple. Those who seek to foster discord
among Muslims and Christians focus on issues that
#$?$#*" '.#" *,0/'-$I*" '(*'-" !" % .O$%&3" Q2&" K/*."
resources such as Muhammad’s promise to Christians
is invoked and highlighted it builds bridges. It inspires
Muslims to rise above communal intolerance and
engenders good will in Christians who might be nursing
fear of Islam or Muslims.
N/*." 7" ) M" '&" 7-)',$%" - 2(%*-B" 7" 1.#" $." &/*,"
unprecedented examples of religious tolerance and
inclusiveness. They make me want to become a better
16
VOI Volume 01/2011
UTA!E*S"U!SAYAX@U*BW"
Around 610 Muhammad, in the hot month of Ramadan, was visiting the Cave at Mount
Hira where he could calmly meditate, perchance to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, feel the coolness of nature and more importantly contemplate the more
important questions of life. It was a precarious climb up the mount and he had been
doing this annual visit for the last seven years. He had been having dreams as clear as
daylight as if to prepare for the coming revelations.
On 17 Ramadan he had a vision, a hologram of
the blessed Angel Gabriel revealing to him those
truly incredible words, incredible if we consider the
development of human thought at that time and the
pagan society that Muhammad lived in.
“Read in the name of your Lord-Sustainer Who created.
Created the human from a clinging clot. Read and your
Lord-Sustainer is most Bountiful. Who taught by the
pen. Taught the human what he knew not”. (Quran 96:
1-5)Amazing that the greatest invention and discovery
!"/2,'."9*$.+-B"K($&$.+B"K'-",*.&$ .*#"$."&/*"?*(:"1(-&"
verses of the Quran.
In matters concerning the spirit and the soul, Muhammad
was a judiciously careful person. Not for him those
superstitions and doubtful practices what more the idols
of the Arabs which were the most disgusting thing for
him. He was disgusted with the spirit possession of the
soothsayer and sought solace with his wife Kadija who
comforted him that he had nothing to fear as God would
protect him.
“I swear by Allah, He will not cause you any distress;
you take the burden of others and remove evils, you are
hospitable and stand by what is righteous in the face of
calamities.”
She went to her cousin Waraqa ibn Naufal who knew
the Christian and Jewish scriptures. He assured her that
the same Angel that had come to Moses and Jesus had
come to Muhammad. On a later day, near the Ka’bah he
met the Prophet and told him the same thing and that
his people would drive him out and he hoped that he
had the strength to protect him then. Then he kissed the
Prophet’s head. For a terribly long six months, there was
no revelation and during this period Waraqa ibn Naufal
died. Then came the revelation.
VOI Volume 02/2011
17
“O you wrapped up in a mantle. Arise and deliver your
admonishments. And glorify your Lord-Sustainer. And
M**0": 2("+'(,*.&-"02(*"'.#"%)*'.3"5.#"O**"!( ,"'.:"
abominations.”(Quran 74: 1-5)
The revelations came in different forms sometimes like
the ringing of a bell. Even on an intensely cold day he
would break out in a sweat during revelation. His whitish
red complexion would become intensely red and his
breathing would become rapid. Sometimes physically it
felt as if a great weight had come down upon him. Once
revelation came to him when he was on a camel. He had
to alight from it as the poor animal could hardly take it. It
was said that the brilliance of the light of his face was so
$.&*.-*"&/'&"$&"K 2)#"9*"#$!1%2)&"&/*."& "-&'(*"'&"/$,"K$&/"
his indescribable halo.
“Verily, we sent it down on the Night of Power and what
do you know about the Night of Power? The Night of
Power is better than a thousand months. In it the angels
and the Spirit descend with the command of their Lord
on every errand. It is peace until the appearance of
dawn.” (Quran 97: 1-5)
“By the morning and the night when it is still. Your LordSustainer has not forsaken you. And verily the next world
is better for you than the present. And your Lord will give
: 2"2.&$)": 2"'(*"-'&$-1*#3"L$#"E*". &"1.#": 2"'." (0/'."
and give you refuge? And He found you searching and
He guided you. And He found you poor and made you
rich. As for the orphan do not oppress him and as for the
beggar do not scold him. And as for the Grace of your
Lord, proclaim it. (Quran 93: 1-11)
The main thrust of his message was that his people
should return to the original message of Prophet
Abraham, worship God Alone and eschew evil which
was very clearly overwhelming them. So he proclaimed
the Message of the Quran and it was in perfect language
and its logic was impeccable which stunned the Quraish
and the other tribes. Here was Muhammad a man like
any other man, albeit of surpassing virtues, yet what
he brought was miraculous and this man who did not
know then how to read or how to write and was bereft
of teachers, brought a message that was astounding.
Prophet Jesus healed people with the name of God
because healing was the priority then. Solomon
impressed with his amazing technology surpassing
even the wonders of Egypt with his fountain of molten
brass for example and his control over birds and beasts.
That was the miracle of God that he brought.
With a people famed for their beautiful language, whose
skill was in words, tomes and tomes of it, the Quran was
the ultimate. It was neither prose nor poetry but this Word
of the One God had a magnetic effect on people who
heard it, it created pattern-interrupters so that people
started questioning their own deeds, their paganism
and fetishes, their idolatry and polytheism. They were
astounded by its predictions such as the ultimate victory
of Christians over the Persians, its answers to questions
posed by religious scholars, its uncanny details, its
absolute lack of contradictions. Those whose hearts
and minds were hardened dreaded to hear it because
it reverberated in their inner selves and made them feel
+2$)&:" '.#" &/*:" K*(*" ) '&/" & " -**" $&-" $.O2*.%*" -0(*'#"
by one humble but fearless individual particularly as it
affected their livelihood and social power. They knew
that it was wrong to worship false deities or to kill female
infants, treat animals cruelly or to indulge in blood feuds
$." (*?*.+*" $." '" 0)'%*" -'.%&$1*#" 9:" &/*" 1(-&" , -C2*"
on earth built by Adam but they could not repent and
own up to their misdeeds. Such was their arrogance.
Such were the people who in the words of the Quran
worshipped their own desires.
Kadijah, Ali a mere lad, Zaid a slave and then an
2.O$.%/$.+"592"Q'M'("K*(*"', .+"&/*"1(-&"
& " '%%*0&" &/*" ,*--'+*B" &/*." $&" -0(*'#" )$M*" K$)#1(*"
particularly among the down trodden, such as the
slaves and women. This was unacceptable and the
Arab chieftains approached Abu Talib to request him to
stop his nephew from proclaiming his message. They
appealed to Muhammad that if he wanted riches, they
would collect it for him, and indeed if he wanted to be
King they would crown him and his answer recorded in
history was “O Uncle if they put the sun in my right hand
and the moon in my left I will not give up my mission until
it succeeds or I perish.” Despite ominous threats, Abu
Talib assured his beloved Muhammad of his support for
Muhammad’s right to continue preaching.
But each clan persecuted those members and their
slaves who had converted to Islam. Some like Bilal were
tortured on the burning sands with huge boulders placed
on them. One woman Somaya was torn apart by camels
and horses pulling her limbs in opposite direction. She
K'-"&/*"1(-&",'(&:("$."7-)',3
Persecution continued and the Prophet allowed a band
of Muslim men and women to migrate to Abyssinia then
a Coptic Christian kingdom where a kindly Negus ruled
with the advice of bishops. The Prophet advised some
Muslims to go there “for there rules a kindly king” The
Meccan enemies of the Prophet were riled that they
had escaped and sent an emissary to the Negus to
persuade him to repatriate them but he refused. Jafar
the Prophet’s cousin had given a beautiful eulogy on the
Prophet and is famous for all time:
“We were an ignorant people, worshipping idols,
eating carrion, committing abominations, breaking
kinship relations, treating guests badly, and our strong
devoured our weak. We lived that way until God sent
us a messenger whose lineage, truth, and modesty we
came to know. He called us to God, to acknowledge His
Unity, worship Him and to give up the stones and the
idols that we and our fathers had been worshipping. He
commanded us to be truthful in speech, trustworthy, to
honour ties of kinship, be hospitable and refrain from
forbidden things and bloodshed. He forbade us to
commit abominations, speak falsely, devour the property
of orphans and slander the unblemished reputations of
women…..”
4/*"<2-)$,-"(*&2(.*#"!( ,"59:--$.$'"& "1.#"&/*"0*(-*%2&$ ." !"<2-)$,-"$."<*%%'"K (-*"&/'."*?*(3"4/*"<2-)$,-"/'#"
been holed up in Shi’b Ali and a total social and trade boycott was imposed on them. When it was lifted because the
ordinary people felt that it was unduly harsh, the Prophet was shocked by two deaths, of his wife Kadijah and his uncle
Abu Talib. It was the Year of Sadness for him. Everything appeared to be dismal but the Prophet had to do his duty for
God and humankind. He traveled to the city of Taif to proclaim his message. But he was very badly treated and was
stoned until his legs bled yet he prayed for God’s forgiveness and guidance for those people.
Who was going to give him asylum when he returned? One Mu’tim bin Adi gave him the asylum and ordered his sons
to render protection to the Prophet. Although they were pagan polytheists they had compassion in their hearts and
nobility. It was Mutim who had protested about the Ban. He had changed much from the earlier days. Roughly one
year before the Prophet’s migration to Yathrib, he had a most wondrous spiritual experience wherein he was carried
to Jerusalem by night where he led the earlier Prophets in congregational prayer before his Ascension during which
he met some of the earlier Prophets such as Moses, Jesus, John the Baptist, again in different levels of the heavens.
7&"K'-"$,0 (&'.&"& "7-)',"9*%'2-*"#2($.+"$&"&/*"1?*"#'$):" 9)$+'& (:"0(':*(-"K*(*",'#*" 9)$+'& (:3"7&"$-"9*%'2-*" !"
this event known as Isra’ wal Mi’raj (Night Journey and Ascension) in the month of Rajab that the Muslims consider
Jerusalem or Al Quds as the 3rd holiest city in Islam, the very same city which was the First Qiblah or direction
in Islam. This event also underlined the continuity of revelation from Adam to Muhammad the Last Prophet and
Messenger of God.
Something happened that was of great promise. Some people from the city of Yathrib had met the Prophet to declare
their belief in Islam. They returned to their city and not much later 73 persons came from that historic city to pledge
their obedience to the Prophet. Some Muslims then migrated to Yathrib and when this was reported to the evil
Quraish leaders they immediately plotted to kill the Prophet. With the help of another non-Muslim again a polytheist,
Muhammad and Abu Bakar left quietly for Yathrib with the Quraishites swarming around to assassinate him. They
could not see him and ultimately he found shelter in a cave enroute to Yathrib. A spider had spun her web around the
cave and the Quraishites who had gone there decided that he could not be hiding within. They eluded their enemies
until they reached Yathrib. It was a Jew who shouted from his ramparts “Your man has come” He was riding on a
camel and when they saw him the girls of the Banu Nadjar shouted to him “We love you” and he replied “I love you
too” and they sang a song of welcome to “the full moon” a song sung to this very day.
“The full moon has risen over us from the mountains of Al-Wada’. We shall ever give thanks for it as long as there will
be callers to Allah”Everyone wanted the Prophet to stay with them but the Prophet allowed his camel to stop where it
wanted. Immediately the Prophet gave the orders for a Mosque to be built and he and the others struggled to erect it.
His quarters was part of it.This Hijrah or Migration of the Prophet is the event from which the Islamic calendar begins.
All these while some hypocrites were observing what was going on. Among them a pagan by the name of Abdullah bin
\9'::"K/ "/'#"',9$&$ .-" !"9*% ,$.+"&/*"[$.+" !"<'#$.'/3"] ("&/*"1(-&"X^", .&/-"&/*"<2-)$,-"/'#"0(':*#"& K'(#-"
Jerusalem. In Mecca, i.e before the Migration they prayed to Jerusalem in such a way that the Ka’bah was in between.
This gave the Jews the impression of their importance but it was not so because historically Jerusalem was the First
R$9)'/"92&". &",*&'6/$-& ($%')):"9*%'2-*"5#',"92$)&"&/*"1(-&"R$9)'/"$."<*%%'"_`":*'(-"9*! (*"/*"92$)&"&/*"4*,0)*"'&"
Jerusalem which David was to rebuild. (Sahih Muslim)
Jafar recited the verses of the Quran about Jesus and
Mary. The emissary of the Quraish had earlier instigated
the Negus that Muhammad disbelieved in them and the
Quranic recitation proved the emissary wrong because
&/*"@*+2-"'%%*0&*#"&/*"R2('.$%"#*1.$&$ ." !"&/*-*"/ ):"
personages.This made the situation in Mecca even
worse and Umar bin Al Khattab said that the only way
to stop the Muslims was to kill the Prophet and when
he was instigated that his own sister had converted to
Islam he went to confront her and heard the words of the
Quran from her mouth. It shocked him and he recanted
and repented for such is the effect of the Word of God
on some people!
18
VOI Volume 02/2011
!"#$!%&!'()) )$*&
+ #*%!,& !"#$!%The Prophet had come to a city where pagans, Muslims, powerful Jewish tribes and a smaller number of
Christians lived. Muslims of Madinah the Ansaar adopted the migrants known as Muhajireen and it was a
!"#$ !%&$ '(%)*"*$ +"!,*"%(,-$ *./(0(,(%1$ '!)"(2)*3$ 456*$ !%&$ )5##(,#*%,7$ 8/*$ 9"5:/*,$ *%,$ *6*%$ +;",/*"$ 0-$
promulgating the Madinah Agreement (Mithaq Madinah) by which Jews, Muslims, pagans, others were to
have judicial autonomy but this commonwealth had common defence arrangements crucial in the face of
hostile Meccan movements. The Jews were even considered to be one of the ummah or community. It was
the oldest modern-type constitution in the world, certainly less theological and more pragmatic.
In essence this Mithaq Madinah stipulated inter-alia:
1. The Jews and Muslims would be considered one Ummah (one people), the Jews and Muslims were
free to follow their respective religions, freemen and slaves alike.
2. The Jews were responsible for their affairs and the Muslim for theirs.
3. If any member of the treaty went on war with another party, the other members would support it and
cooperate with each other. As long as the war continued the expenditure would be borne by all the members.
4. The Quraish and their helpers would not be given asylum in Madinah.
5. Any mutual dispute between the members of the treaty would be settled by Allah and His Messenger SAW.
4/*";( 0/*&"/'#"9**."%/ -*."9:"A #"& "(*1.*", (')-3"E$-"0$&/:"-':$.+-"K*(*"*8*,0)$1*#"$."/$-"#**#-"'.#" 9-*(?*#"
by his companions.
“Servants are your brothers whom Allah has given under your control; so whomsoever among your
brothers Allah puts under you, you should feed your brother with what you yourselves eat and give
him the same attire which you wear yourself, you should not make him work beyond his ability,
then you should help him.”
(Bukhari and Muslim) These servants enjoyed privileges which servants in other countries could not enjoy.The latter
are rightfully called slaves.
“If a father brings some new fruit from the market then it is a charitable act. He should start distributing to the
daughter then to the son.”
“Never deny the rights of two weaker beings, an orphan and a woman.”
“Verily the best of what you eat is what you obtain from your own earnings.”
“Paradise lies at the feet of your mother.”
The Meccans under Abu Sufyan had written to the enemies of the Muslims in Madinah to get rid of Muhammad
or face the dire consequences.
“You have given protection to our man. We swear by God that if you do not kill him or expel him from Madina we
will attack you and take your womenfolk as captives.”
VOI Volume 02/2011
19
It was clear to the Muslims and their allies in Madinah that
their enemies were out to destroy them. The Meccans
had even penetrated into Madinah to steal some of the
camels yet Madinah did nothing. “When will the help of
Allah come?”
Ultimately God revealed :
“Permission is given because they have been wronged
and Allah has indeed the power to succour those who
have been banished from their homes without any reason
except that they said that Allah was their Lord.
“… If Allah had not stopped some people by means
of other people, there would have been destroyed
monasteries, churches, synagogues and mosques in
which the name of Allah is much repeated …” (Quran
22: 40)
Despite external and internal threats, life went on and
every occasion enabled people to learn from the Prophet
what he had been inspired by God. He had told them to
be pure in their intentions “Certainly actions are judged
by intentions”, that one should abjure envy and jealousy
!"#$%!& '(!#)*$%+& ,*$)-& !#.& $/& 0**-& -!!-%& )12!& 34!&
would consume wood”. When asked by someone for
advice he said “Don’t be angry” not once but thrice. He
forbade branding animals in their face or even sharpening
a knife in the midst of an animal to be slaughtered “Why
do you subject it to two deaths?” He was angry when
someone took birds from a nest and instructed him to
return them to the nest.
The Quran teaches men to marry women who appear
good to them.It speaks about a marriageable age which
minors clearly would not qualify for. Muhammad was
.5!& 34%.& /!4%*6& 16& .5!& ,*4)-& .*& /$.& )171.%& .*& /*)0+6+&
which is the practise of a man having more than one
wife. Islam didn’t ban it because it had its uses at times.
Barren wives still appealed to their husbands to marry
fertile women to manage their farms or orchards. In Arab
society marriages protected tribes from warfare and
blood feuds. No women or men reviled the institution of
polygyny. When there were no social welfare institutions,
polygyny kept women from the streets and from
unsavoury practices.
It was practiced among the Prophets of God such as
Abraham, David, Solomon, Rehoboam, etc. They were
not men of lust and vice. Far from it as the Quran teaches
that they were men of responsibility. The Prophet taught
that if one is unable to maintain justice one is to marry
only one and even then one has to treat one’s spouse
justly and with love and compassion.
The Prophet married Aishah during the second year of
the Hijrah. She was already in her late teens but was
the youngest among his wives, marriages with whom
were effected either to consolidate tribal relationships
or out of plain compassion. Aishah sometimes beat him
in races of a few miles. This young lady helped out in
the defensive battles. Her marriage dress was borrowed
by other women for their marriages. She was learned
#6-&16&5!4&)#.!4&#0!8&#&305.!4&9*4&.5!&4105.%&*9&,*7!6:&
Prophet married one post –menopausal woman who
was toothless and with several children. Why would he
do that? Compassion. (Shibli Nu’man: Seeratun Nabi,
Pakistan Historical Society, Genuine Islam, Jamiyah
Singapore,Encyclopaedia of Islam, Leiden, Holland, Dr.
;#3<&=#<)$4&>#57#6&?6%#41@&A$4#61"&=*$6-#.1*6%&#6-&
Structure of Muslim Society, World Federation of Islamic
Missions, Pakistan)
The Prophet undertook a diplomatic mission with the
Banu Dhamra and sealed it with a treaty. The Haj being
over it could be an opportune period for the Meccans
to attack Madinah thus the strategic defence treaty with
the Banu Dhamra and a treaty of neutrality with Junaini.
True to their extrapolations, the Meccans sent a war
expedition of 300 soldiers with Abu Sufyan’s son as the
leader. The Muslims sent 60 under Obaida to intercept
them but there was no battle and the Meccans under a
young Ikrima bin Abu Sufyan retreated because despite
their small numbers Sad bin Abi Waqas shot arrows at
them and thus demonstrated the courage of the Muslims.
Moreover two of the Meccans had crossed over and
joined the Muslims there thus shocking Ikrima and his
warriors who decided to return to Mecca.
War was inevitable even though the Muslims under the
Prophet prayed for peace with every liturgical prayer.
“O Allah You are Peace
Peace comes from You
Hallowed are You
Lord of Majesty and Bounty”
When the Quraish army of one thousand well armed men
confronted the Muslims, the latter only had only 300
poorly armed but resolute warriors.
It appeared to the Quraish that even the forces of nature
were against them. They lost badly and the Muslims took
prisoners of war. Unlike the Quraish they treated them
very well. This was the well known battle of Badr.
The second battle again started by the Quraish was
less decisive. Some Muslims disobeyed the battle
instructions of the Prophet. A rumour had spread that
their beloved Prophet was slain and this enervated
many until he was spotted alive. It was a miracle that
the Prophet was able to salvage his army but he lost
his brave uncle Hamzah because of the deadly spear of
Wahshi the African. Hatred and rage spurred Hindiya
to pull out Hamzah’s liver and eat it. Madinah wept but
such was the compassion of the Prophet that when
Mecca capitulated to the Muslims he forgave both
Wahshi and Hind.Two years later saw the Meccans
mustering the help of their allies managed to organize
a very powerful army of many more than 10,000 men.
BC!6& .5!14& )#-1!%& "*63-!6.& *9& C1".*4+& 9*))*,!-& .5!14&
men. There was martial music and the recitation of war
poems. Abu Sufyan was the Supreme Commander of
this Grand Confederation Army.
The Prophet receives revelation for religious guidance
but in worldly matters he preferred mutual consultation
and agreed with his Persian companion’s view that a
deep trench would be a big obstacle for the invaders.
This was the Battle of Khandaq (trench) which shattered
the fantasies of the Meccans.
20
VOI Volume 02/2011
%."!#/#0!%&!'()) )$*
In the sixth year of the hijrah, the
Prophet as a result of a dream in the
month of Zulkaedah left Madinah for
Mecca for the purpose of performing
Haj in the coming month of Zul Hijjah. He
had about 1400 to 1500 men with him.
The Quraish leaders intercepted the
entourage and said they would forcibly
stop the Muslims from proceeding for
Haj but they were willing to negotiate
with the Muslims who two years earlier
had defeated the Meccans at the Battle
of Khandaq, increased their support
from surrounding tribes and diluted the
foreign trade of Mecca.
They were also defeated but some careless history had projected distortions, exaggerations and patent falsehoods
completely contradicting the lines of pure history delineated in the Quran. The wars of the Muslims hardly occupied
one month in blessed Muhammad’s sixty three years yet some historians have focused too much on it. The Prophet
instituted fairness, ethics and chivalry yet they have glossed over them.
The agreement concluded between the Prophet and the
Quraysh related to terms under which the Muslims were
to be permitted to enter Mecca immediately thereafter.
It could not be because the executions mentioned here contradicted the principles enunciated in Surah Muhammad
which was revealed shortly after Hijrah.
“So when you meet those who oppose Truth, strike out valiantly until you have subdued them. Then bind ye them
securely. Only later comes the time for largesse or for ransom. Until war lays down her arms. That is (the correct
sequence)! If Allah had so wished He could have subdued them Himself. But He tests you one against another”
The Muslims did actually enter Mecca immediately
following the agreement and stayed there for 3 days.
The condition about returning non-Muslims to the
Meccans–while defecting Muslims were not to be
returned to the Prophet’s company– applied only to the
3 day sojourn in Mecca.
Jewish tribes and the pagans were powerful in Madinah.
They had fortresses and long ancient traditions focusing
on them as the so-called Chosen People. They had
5*/!-& .5#.& .5!& D4*/5!.& ,*$)-& 9$)3)& .5!14& #%/14#.1*6%8&
not make them equal with the illiterate Bedouins and
the other Arabs. The historic Meethaq Madinah often
called the Constitution of Madinah was promulgated
to promote human fellowship but some of them, in the
depths of their hearts, recoiled from it. They schemed
with the Meccans to undo Islam and worked with the
hypocrites from among the Muslims at Madinah.
They were not only under threat from the vicious
Meccans but they had enemies from within from among
the tribes at Khaibar and the Banu Qurayzah who
schemed with the open enemies and became traitors
to the new commonwealth at Madinah.
VOI Volume 02/2011
21
Whether it was the one to one hand combat of brave Ali who also tore down the gate of the fortress of Khaybar, Umm
Ammarah’s rushing into battle to pick up the weapon to defend the Prophet when men ran away, the battles showed
.5!&"*$4#0!8&.5!&4!%*)$.!6!%%&#6-&"*7/)!.!&%#"413"!&*9&.5!&E$%)17%
During the Battle of Khandaq, the Muslims, not more than 3,000 at the largest estimate had to face the combined
confederate forces of the Meccans and allies of more than 10,000 - 20,000 yet their so-called allies from among the
Banu Quraizah and those at Khaibar betrayed them, taunted and teased them. After the Battle the Prophet had to
7#4"5&.5!7&*68&!F1)160&%*7!:&G*7!&*9&.5!7&-1!-&16&3!4"!& #..)!:&?))&.5!&,51)!&.5!&4$)!%&*9&9#14& #..)!&,#%&9*))*,!-& +&
the Muslims. The Muslims never followed the dictate “Alls fair in love and war”.
In one instance according to pseudo-history where a person whom the embattled Jews respected and agreed to be
the arbitrator was chosen and he demanded that his decision based on Jewish scriptures be respected, some of the
4160)!#-!4%8&,5*&,!4!&.4#1.*4%8&,!4!&!F!"$.!-8&/4*/!4.+&,#%&"*63%"#.!-&#6-&.5!&*.5!4%&.#2!6&#%&/41%*6!4%:&H.&,#%&
also inferred that had the Prophet been chosen as arbitrator he would have exiled them with their wealth as he had
done in the past.
And taught the following:
1.
2.
When you go into battle (for defence of community) go all out for victory
When you have won, prisoners should be released or ransomed.
For ransom, prisoners sometimes had to teach Muslims from the superior worldly knowledge that they had, whether
it was Hebrew or the art of writing. Meanwhile they were to be treated fairly.
A few of the Jewish tribes remained in Madinah until the time of Umar r.a.who brought them to Palestine when he
arrived there as a victor. It would be recalled that Umar was pulling the camel on which his attendant was sitting upon.
Such is the egalitarianism of Islam. The Christian Patriarch of Jerusalem could not believe his eyes.
During the Haj the next year, the Muslims under the sterling leadership of Prophet Muhammad were free to spread
their message and their behaviour was so exceptional and beautiful that many tribes and individuals accepted Islam.
Delegations were sent to Madinah from all corners of Arabia pledging their acceptance of the new dispensation.
Two years later the Quraish attacked the Khuza’ah an ally of the Muslims and this called for obligations from the
Muslims. As predicted by Moses in Deuteronomy, Muhammad and his 10,000 men marched on Mecca which
capitulated without any bloodshed. Muhammad was humbly muttering prayers on his camel, his head hung low
unlike other victors.
A general amnesty was given to the population. History has not seen such a bloodless victory! It was Wednesday the
10th of Ramadan in the eight year of the Hijrah. Even an arch apostate and murderer Abdullah bin Abi Sarh who had
the audacity to claim part-authorship of the Quran, was forgiven demonstrating that there are no mandatory death
sentences in Islam for even apostasy or treason. Thereafter blessed Muhammad had to confront a great enemy in
the powerful tribe of the Hawazin but even though the Muslims numerically were equal to the task, they almost lost
had the older companions among the Emigrants and the Ansaar not gone to the rescue. Having won the battle, the
Prophet again showed forgiveness and magnanimity to the extent of offending some of his companions who were
later won over with his warm appeals
The diplomatic delegations continued to be received at the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah. The Prophet had sent
ambassadors to Heads of States in Coptic Egypt, Byzantine’s and Persia’s Emperors etc. In Southern Syria his
emissaries were brutally murdered and occasioned the battle of Mu’tah where 3000 Muslims confronted many
thousands of full armed enemies. Their enemies were insurmountable but were not able to defeat the Muslims who
distinguished themselves with acts of great heroism.
FAREWELL PILGRIMAGE
In 10 A.H the Prophet made his Farewell Pilgrimage and gave his historic Farewell Address which is the promulgation
of gender equality and wholesome duties and rights
DEATH OF THE BLESSED PROPHET
Not long thereafter the Prophet fell ill while he was with Aishah. He had high fever and expired with those momentous
words “Unto the Companionship On High” Muhammad left behind for posterity the Message from God which had
been duly written down on all kinds of materials and his Life Practice which his innumerable companions recorded if
not in written form, warmly in their breasts.
The Prophet was as he said a human like others but he had reached the highest levels of human perfection
demonstating that a human was perfectable. God chose him because he was the best of humans and deserving to
be the bearer of the Last Divine Message.
What he brought was very clear.
He had done the following:
Ensured that none would worship him after his death or make an icon or idol of him.
Ensured that Muslims understood that all humans are equal, both women and men but that there
are constraints which their nature dictated.
Underlined the importance of seeking knowledge from the cradle to the grave and that there is no
dichotomy between worldly and otherworldly sciences thus promoting the fusion of science and
knowledge which the Muslims demonstrated in their Golden Age.
Blended compassion, discipline and balance in the social life of the Muslims.
Promoted human fellowship and multi-racial harmony
Promulgated the examples which are the basis of an early international law
Banned the use of weapons and strategies that destroy the earth, innocent civilians, lesser
creatures, fruit plants and crops thus effectively banning modern weapons such as mines, rockets,
missiles, howitzers, cannons not to mention WMDs and nuclear weapons, the diverting of essential
water channels and poisoning them.
Demonstrated that spirituality and love of God, God-consciousness is practical and indeed essential
for excellence in all areas of human activity and consciousness.
Wa Sallahu ‘ala syedina Muhammad wa ‘ala ali wa Sohbihi ‘ajmain.
22
VOI Volume 02/2011
12342567&8492&:52;&<=6>?@2&=A&'B"&
!"#$%"!&'%"()"*++&$," !-!.#%+/"01&2.(34,"5&6!&!.'(34"
The Prophet said "You have not reached faith unless you want for your brother (in humanity) what you want for
yourself" And the best gift that you can give to your friend indeed anyone is the correct interpretation of Islam not
the Islam of the media but the Islam of the Quran and the Sunnah , the very basis of Islam.
Concept of God and the Hereafter
I5!&34%.&.5160&.5#.&%5*$)-& !&16.!46#)1<!-&!C!6& !9*4!&,!&4!#"5&J #)105K&/$ !4.+&&#4!&.5!&4$-17!6.%&*9&&.5!&"*6"!/.&
of Allah according to the Quran and the pro-Sunnah materials that are available everywhere. Unfortunately many
of those who teach religion and are erroneously called clerics(1) do not have the purity of heart and mind which are
called for, not merely the washing of face, hands, limbs etc that are done before reading the Quran which is God's
Message for humanity..
ALLAH in Essence is beyond the beyond and certainly
beyond our puny minds but Allah has revealed what
the true concept of ALLAH is through the innumerable Prophets and Messengers selected from among
humans throughout history, from all nations and tribes,
with Muhammad bin Abdullah as the Seal of the
Prophets and Messengers of Allah. I dont accept the
view that Allah is unchangeably Perfect while the Divine
Message cannot remain perfect because human language is everchanging . Words have different meanings
over time . My objection to this view of Fritjif Schuon
is based on the Quranic caveat that God protects the
Quran as message unto humanity and we will always
!&# )!&.*&36-&*$.&.5!&.4$!&7!#6160&*9&.5!&L#%.&>!C!)#tion through scholarly means even by having access to
the original meanings still retained by bedouins in the
desert as exegete Muhammad Asad (Leopold Weiss).
ALLAH because of Love, Power and Knowledge is
closer to us than ourselves. So in summary the concept of Allah to start with is that He Who is beyond
gender, time, place, direction, weight , sex, he-ness or
she-ness or a combination of both and indeed any human dimension or dimension of creation is neither within nor without the Cosmos. Allah is extra-dimensional
and Allah is the Creator of dimensions that we know or
-*&6*.&26*,:H6&G"1!6.13"&.!47%&?))#5&1%&? %*)$.!&A$#)ity at Zero Quantity.
In Surah Muhammad also known as Surah Harb, Allah
17/)1!%&.5#.&.5!&-!#.5%&*6&.5!&J-!9!6%1C!K& #..)!3!)-&#4!&
not unexpected in battle. It is part of fact of war and
it is not because Allah is visiting punishment on the
Muslims who do die in battle. Likewise when tsunamis
strike or populations get swallowed up during earthquakes it is because of the operation of some Law of
Nature which affects us while we are still alive. Why do
people live on the brink of active volcanoes or within
VOI Volume 02/2011
23
.5!&D#"13"&>160&*9&=14!&,5!6&M*-&.!))%&.5!7&.*&"*6sider the Signs of Nature , to understand the working
of Nature which follow an unchangeable Law which in
Arabic is called Sunatullah.(2) Where so called miracles
occur they are the result of the Law of Grace within the
Laws of Nature. We don’t even understand the Laws
of Nature, let alone the Laws of Grace exhibited by
Prophets, Messengers of God and even the Saints of
God such as Abdul Qadir Jailani, Naqshband,
This world is a place of trials and tribulations but be
that as it may, it enables some people to climb up
to the highest levels of morality and humanity while
others remain at the lowest level possible. It is a place
of choice and personal volition. This world is not the
$).17#.!&/)#"!&*9&N$-0!7!6.&:&BC!6&19&%*7!&%$3%&")#17&
that judgement has already begun, it reaches it zenith
and perfection at a point determined by Allah alone.
Never blame God Who is Pure for anything. The horrors
of life are like those we get in our dreams. When we
get up the horrors end like a bubble that bursts. When
we die an un-suicidal death, the bubble of trials and
tribulations end. As God states in the Quran, God will
not be unjust to a person not even by an atom’s weight.
We will see our deeds in their complete objectivity after
death .
And that cosmic pattern-interrupter will bring us bliss
or grief depending on how we we used our ’aql.’
Aql is not mundane logic or secular rationality but
.5!&D$4!&H6.!))!".&.5#.&%!#4"5!%&9*4&M*-&#6-&36-%&;17O&
In religious terms it is the essence of the spiritual heart
and not the brain which serves the spiritual heart.
But as Allah teaches us, that is not the end of the story
because with Allah as our Rabb (Lord Cherisher and
Sustainer), we will be brought by Allah tabaqan tabaq
from one level to another until we reach our destiny
with jaheem(Hell) as our metaphorical Umm or Mother.
Umm (Mother) is a beautiful Quranic term because it
1%&.5!&7!#6160&*9&#45#7&16&.5!&34%.&C!4%!&*9&P5#/.!4&
on Women “ Worship Allah through Whom you ask
for your mutual rights and revere the arham
(mothers).” (4:1)
The Prophet said that on the Day of Judgement,
realizing that God is Pure and not responsible for any
evil will weigh decisively for a person. Also that even
#&&4!(!".160&-1% !)1!C!4&J2#34K&&19&5!&,!4!&&.*&26*,&.5!&
Mercy of Allah would not despair of going to Heaven.
Many have taken the Quranic metaphors literally even
though the Quran warns that some of its verses are
metaphorical and some are literal. Both Prophet Jesus
and Muhammad had said that what God has in store
for His devotee , no mind has ever conceived, no ear
has ever seen nor any ear has heard. They use semitic
idiom throughout their earthly sojourn but ……
Why did they say the same things? Because the One
that chose them as Prophets is the same and all
Prophets and Messengers gave the same message
essentially. Sometimes this scriptural continuum allows
us to understand the scriptures better. For example
the saying “It is easier for a camel to enter the eye of a
needle than a rich man to enter Heaven” is easily corrected to “It is easier for a thick rope to enter the eye
of a needle than a rich man to enter Heaven.” While
translating the semitic term jml without the diacritical or
vowel signs the word jamal or camel was chosen rather
than the more obvious jummal or thick rope.”It is easier
for a thick rope to enter the eye of a needle than a rich
man to enter Heaven.”
When the Prophet Jesus said that if your hand or eye
offends you, cut it off” (Gospel of Mathews) , he was
using Semitic idiom and his words should not be taken
literally but some Christian extremists actually removed
the offending tatoos on the hand of a youth.
Jesus said : “He who has not sinned shall throw
.5!&34%.&%.*6!&J#.&.5!&#-$).!4!%%K&#6-&E$5#77#-&
confrontintg a group of stone throwers chasing an
adulteress shouted at them “Why dont you let her
escape?” (Ref: Mishkat) and apparently they were
Jewish Arabs and the Quranic verse ending stoning
as a punishment had not been revealed.
Likewise the Quranic words “As for the male thief and
the female thief, cut their hands......” was explained by
Syed Muhammad Al Taqi to mean rehabilitation and
this view is in classical Quranic exegesis by Aga Pooya
and has been known for a thousand years since the
debate in the court of Siraj Ad Daulah. Nowhere does
the word cut mean amputation . Indeed another Quran1"&"5#/.!4&G$4#5&N*%!/5&&/4*C1-!%&.5!&")#413"#.1*6&.5#.&
literally it means a scratch and thus it should be rationally understood as rehabilitation, the same punishment
for public display of homosexuality or lesbianism.
As the Quran teaches us , we can call God by any
scriptural name for God as long as it does not detract
94*7&M*-O%&/!49!".1*68&5*)16!%%&#6-&16361.$-!:&N!%$%&
used the Aramaic Alaha for God and the Jews use the
majestic plural form Ellohim for God. Even in the Hindu
%"41/.$4!%&,!&36-&.5!&.!47&?))*&#%&16&.5!&?))*&Q/#61shad .
All the above underlines our faith in the Perennial
Philosophy which teaches the Unity of Religion. One
Absolute, One Cosmos, One Humanity, One School of
Prophets, One Religion, many divine edition of Religion
which have gone through the windmill of history.
0=C4&"?9256DE9&F45G?
H*;?&I=D9&=A&J5A?&34?&74?32
*;=C7;2&@4=K=L567&34?&529&@3569
/C2&C6J?99&D=C&;3K?&'=M&56&N56M
O;32&24CJD&34?&D=C4&73569&P
0=C&34?&C6;3@@D&6=2&Q?>3C9?&=A&:;32&D=C&L6=:
/C2&Q?>3C9?&=A&:;32&D=C&;3K?&6=2&4?3J59?M
*59&L6=:567&'=ME9&J=K?&ND&M?34
O;5>;&59&D=C4&M?9256DE9&@45G?
-z.i
!"# $% &%'(%))*+%' ,- ./-%0 !1'232 */ )4 04)%/5*6*/07 04)89*/07 %/625*/0 *) ./-%0# 1'2 :;3%) /5%52/ 5'%5 54 <-2%/2 =4> /402
%)6*2)5 <24<-2 *)534>;62> 04)%/5*6*/0 (;5 2?2) 5'2) 5'2+ @%*-2> 54 32%6' 5'2 *>2%-/ 4@ 04)%/5*6*/0#A ./-%0 */ % -*@29@;-,--*)B 32-*B*4) )45
% -*@29>2)+*)B 32-*B*4)A
!C# D /6'4-%3 32%>*)B 5'2 %(4?2 '%/ B*?2) 5'2 @4--4E*)B %/ % 6%?2%5 F 1'232 */ 5'2 (2-*2@ 5'%5 % >*/%/523 5'%5 (2@%--/ ';0%)/ 0%+
(2 >;2 54 (%-% 43 0;/*(%'A G%-% */ -*82 % 52/5 4@ 5'2 B44> E'232%/ 0;/*(%' */ % 6%-%0*5+ 5'%5 6402/ %/ % <;)*/'02)5A H47 5'*/ '%/
54 (2 3264)6*-2> E*5' 5'2 *>2% 4@ H;)%5;--%'A I@52)7 ';0%)/ 6%))45 2/6%<2 % )%5;3%- >*/%/523 *)/<*52 4@ 53+*)B 54 '2%> 5'2 E%3)*)B/A
1'%5J/ E'2) E2 '%?2 54 64)/*>23 *@ % >*/%/523 6402/ %/ % (%-% 43 0;/*(%'A
24
VOI Volume 02/2011
L to R: Mr. Mohd Noor, Hj Abu Bakar Maidin, Dr H.M. Saleem, Mr. Lee Boon Siong and Mr Poo Ah Sim
R??&/==6&15=67&A4=N&
FB%&)($&1%#%&*) FR)&
Courtesy visit by Mr Lee Boon Siong to Jamiyah HQ on 16th
December 2010.
This visit was a courtesy call on Executive Consultant Hj Abu Bakar Maidin upon knowing that he has
retired as the President of Jamiyah Singapore. Ven Lee runs the Poh Ern Shih temple which was built by
his grandfather in the memory of Lieutenant Adnan, who died with a few hundred of largely teenagers
defending the last fort of the British on Bukit Candu.
VOI Volume 02/2011
25
1#'$#$'&BS& ) B(!$". &BS&#$*)$*
36M&TU"3D& 32;?N325>9&O=4L9;=@&A=4& ?M36&36M&R3N@=67&*?3>;?49
A signing of a Memorandum of Intent (MOI)
between Jamiyah Business School (JBS) and SMK
Teladan Medan as well as between JBS and SMK Citra
Harapan Deli Serdang, Indonesia was held at Dewan
Ulum, Jamiyah Business School on 26th January
2011. Witnessed by Bapak Junaidi, former Principal,
Singapore Indonesian School, the event marked the
continuing commitment of Jamiyah Business School to
introduce and share Singapore’s system of study with
Indonesia.
The signing of the MOI was between Bapak Amru Umar
Manurung representing the SMK Teladan Medan and
Bapak Ahmad Yani on behalf of SMK Citra Harapan
Deli Serdang, and the Director of Education, Jamiyah
Singapore, Dr Isa Hassan representing Jamiyah
Business School. It is hoped that the MOI would also
be able to facilitate the study of Singapore’s Information
Technology systems so as to assist in its implementation
in Indonesia.
The signing of the Memorandums was then followed
by a two-day IT workshop for Medan and Lampung
Teachers, conducted by Mr Lim Poh Seng, who was
a former Assistant Director of Schools specializing
in Maths and IT and is currently a consultant at the
National Institute of Education. He has been a Maths
and IT lecturer for many years.
26
VOI Volume 02/2011
S!$"#&!% !"&!<!") 0&
()R#'#B.1&%!( B$0&<.F
On the 12th of March 2011, the Jamiyah Youth Department
(JYD) participated in the Fandi Ahmad Academy Religious
Harmony cup, organized by the Fandi Ahmad Academy,
in conjunction with its launch. The event was graced by
Guest-of-Honour Mr. Teo Ser Luck, Senior Parliamentary
Secretary for Ministry of Community Development, Youth
and Sports and had drawn more than 800 participants, with
32 teams from various religious organisations competing
for the Religious Harmony Cup and many younger players
taking part in the Youth Challenge Tournament.
The whole event kicked off at 9am with the group matches. The Jamiyah Youth
team was placed in Group E alongside Salem Fire Chapel, Al-Falah Mosque and
IMSSA (Indian Muslim Social Service Association) United. After eager anticipation
and 3 rounds of 10 minutes play under the scorching sun, Jamiyah Youth emerged
champions of their group, winning 2-0 against Salem Fire Chapel and drawing 0-0
and 2-2 with Al-Falah Mosque and IMSSA United respectively. Exchanging gifts
,1.5&.5!14&34%.&04*$/&*//*6!6.%8&N#71+#5&R*$.5&0#C!&G#)!7&=14!&P5#/!)&#&94#7!-&
drawing by the residents of Darul Ma’wa and received a clock signed by all team
members of Salem Fire Chapel in return.
VOI Volume 02/2011
27
Finally at 3pm the Knock-out round commenced. Jamiyah Youth played against the 2nd
place winners of Group F, Mandalay United F.C. (comprising of ex-Mandalay residents)
in an intense battle which led to a penalty kick-off between the two groups. After much
suspense, Jamiyah Youth won the match 4-5 by a wonderful save by our goalkeeper
? -$)&?<1<8&/4*/!))160&N#71+#5&R*$.5&16.*&.5!&S$#4.!436#)%&*9&.5!&>!)101*$%&;#47*6+&P$/:
T+&.5!&.17!&.5!&A$#4.!436#)%&%.#4.!-&*$4&N#71+#5&R*$.5&/)#+!4%&,!4!&#)4!#-+&!F5#$%.!-&
from the long day that they’d had. Nevertheless, they entered the match against the
young team from Spiritus United (a Catholic Church team) with high spirits and played
with all their might. Unfortunately they lost against their competitors 2-0, ending their
journey in the tournament.
The FAA Religious Harmony Cup was eventually won by Braca Vita Lotus Feet, a Hindu
organization after beating their opponents Spiritus United 1-0. Despite not making it all
.5!& ,#+& .*& .5!& 36#)%8& .5!& N#71+#5& R*$.5& .!#7& 5#-& %5*,6& .5#.& .5!+& #4!& #& 9*4"!& .*& !&
reckoned with. The event also proved to be a good bonding and networking session
for the team, and they were even chosen by reporters from Singtel mio TV to do a short
advertisement for the FAA launch. The team also managed to witness a celebrity match
between several MPs and veteran football players such as Fandi Ahmad, Malek Awab
#6-& >#3& ?)1:& I5!& N#71+#5& R*$.5& .!#7& -!361.!)+& 5#-& #6& !6(*+# )!& .17!& #6-& ,*$)-& )12!&
to extend their thanks to Jeewa Ltd for sponsoring 500ml mineral water bottles as
refreshments for the players. Kudos to the Jamiyah Youth team and we hope to see them
in more tournaments in future!
!<<B.$*#$'&&!&<(.<#!R&
F)(1B$!R&&1V#RR
Our daily life exposes the importance of knowledge of accounting. Whether we are doing our
tax returns, paying bills , calculating our CPF or insurance claims, mathematics is of such
importance that we cannot leave it to others. Accounting skills are part of self-management.
Accordingly our Executive Consultant Haji Abu Bakar Maidin made it a point for a JBS LCCI course on accounts to be more easily available and not merely for those in the line. It should be part of life-long learning. Photo shows some successful students with the Execu.1C!&P*6%$).#6.8&;#(1&? $&T#2#4&E#1-16&#6-&D4!%1-!6.&*9&N#71+#5&;#(1&? -$)&U#417&E#1-16&#6-&%*7!&*.5!4&%!61*4&N#71+#5&*93"1#)%:&I5!&
fact that those whose work or life is not accounts-based passed the LCCI examination is a great credit to them and in particular jubiliations are due to those with even better results. Among them were Ms Fauzia Md Salim and Ms Haw May Blu Htoo who passed with
distinction, Ustazah Hafsah Hashim and Ms Zaharatunisa Abdul Jabbar who passed with credit.
Seated L to Right : Ms Zaharatunisa Abdul Jabbar (Credit) Ms Mar’ah Masri (Pass) Ustazah Hafsah Hashim (Credit), Ms Fauzia Md
Salim(Distinction) Haji Abdul Karim Maidin, Ms Haw May Blu Htoo(Distinction) Ms Azlina ismail (Pass) and Ms Rahimah Beevi Sultan
Mohideen( Pass) Standing L to R: Dr H.M.Saleem, Mr Abu Bakar Maidin, Trainer Mr Chiam Hock Soon, Mr Amal Kiran (Jamiyah Business
School) and Sec.Gen, Jamiyah Singapore Hj. Yunos Shariff
28
VOI Volume 02/2011
SB.(&10 /BR#<&)W)$*1&#$&B$)&
%#U*)!&'!*%)(#$'
T6M&S?Q4C34D&TXYYZ&!JU 3J5L&S3593J&%3JJZ&[3N5D3;&15673@=4?
A Hi-Tea Gathering was held on 2nd February 2011 by Jamiyah Singapore to welcome Ustaz Dr Mohamed Fatris
T#2#4#7&#%&.5!&6!,&E$9.1&*9&G160#/*4!&#6-&.*&4!7!7 !4&.5!&C!4+&%10613"#6.&4*)!&*9&.5!&9*47!4&E$9.1&G5!125&G+!-&H%#&
Mohamed Semait in the progress of the Muslim minority community in Singapore.
The occasion commenced with a Welcome speech by President of Jamiyah, Haji Abdul Karim Maidin. Haji Abdul
Karim congratulated Ustaz Dr Mohamed Fatris Bakaram on his new appointment while acknowledging the former
Mufti’s considerable role in maintaining religious harmony and peace in Singapore, thanking him for all the good
guidance and leadership that he had given to the community in carrying out his crucial responsibilities.
In his speech, the Minister for the Environment and Water Resources and Minister in Charge of Muslim Affairs, Dr
Yaacob Ibrahim, who graced the occasion as the Guest of Honour, commended Jamiyah Singapore for playing a
key role in providing many social services within and beyond our community under the leadership of Haji Abu Bakar
Maidin, Jamiyah’s Executive Consultant whose excellent work continues under the leadership of Haji Abdul Karim
Maidin.
Dr Yaacob draws the similarity between the former Mufti Sheikh Syed Isa and Haji Abu Bakar as a generation of
pioneer leaders who have brought us to where we are today by taking on leadership at a time when Singapore was
growing and our Malay/Muslim community was still in the throes of establishing a strong identity in our new nation. He
#)%*&6*.!-&.5#.&.5!&%10613"#6"!&*9&N#71+#5&*40#61<160&.5!&9$6".1*68&$6-!4&.5!&)!#-!4%51/&*9&;#(1&? -$)&U#417&E#1-168&
as a testimony to the valuable support given by Jamiyah to our religious leadership for many years, as well as going
9*4,#4-:&;!&!F/4!%%!-&51%&"*63-!6"!&.5#.&,1.5&*40#61<#.1*6%&)12!&N#71+#5&%!..160&.5!&/#"!8&.5!&"*))!".1C!&%/141.&*9&*$4&
"*77$61.+&#6-&5#47*6+&.5#.&,!&!6(*+&,1.5&*$4&9!))*,&9#1.5&"*77$61.1!%&,1))&"*6.16$!&.*&04*,&#6-&V*$41%5:
The occasion also provided Jamiyah Singapore with the opportunity to express our sincere thanks to His Excellency
Dr Jamil Mahmoud Mohamed Merdad, Ambassador of the Royal Kingdom of Saudi Arabia who had played a very
%10613"#6.&4*)!&16&9#"1)1.#.160&.5*$%#6-%&*9&G160#/*4!#6%&.*&/!49*47&.5!14&;#(&#6-&$74#5:&I51%&,#%&/*%%1 )!&,1.5&.5!&
Saudi Government and Ambassador’s magnanimity and support as well as the excellent infrastructure in the Holy
cities that has enabled pilgrims to perform the ibadah without any problems. Thus, the gathering also extended a
warm welcome to the representative delegation of Hujjaj who had performed their Haj pilgrimage in 2010.
L to R :
Hj Abdul Karim Maidin,
Dr Yaacob Ibrahim and Dr
Jamil Mahmoud Mohamed
Merdad
VOI Volume 02/2011
29
F(B/R) 1&BS&*%)&
0B.$'
7$%"81(9+%'4"()"/(3!6"8%(8+%"&++"(:%1"#$%";(1+<"&1%"6%##.!6"4.6!.-2&!#+/";(14%"!(#"9%##%1="7$.4".4"&"$3'&!"#1&6%</"&!<".#".4"&"
global tragedy that will have a serious impact on all of us. And it is compounded by natural, political, currency and multi-viral
disasters never ever seen by humanity before.
I5!&34%.&.5160&1%&.*&!6%$4!&.5#.&*$4&"51)-4!6&#6-&+*$.5&
are inoculated with the basic values for survival.And
these are essential :The society of believers either through educational
centres, NGOs or through direct government
intervention have to ensure that pre-schoolers are
infused or inoculated with the correct values of tauhid
and taqwa , congenially transmitted for the age-groups.
This has to go along with proper home environment and
nutrition. This is where the residents, mosque or local
organizations will have to provide the checks and where
necessary the help. Where people get married when
they are still immature, a lot of harm reduction have to be
done and perhaps thereafter we can see some holistic
progress . We know that although in the main believers
are known for loving their children, a small but growing
minority carry out extreme measures including divorce,
physical abuse and in some cases even abandoning the
baby or worse thus contradicting the Prophet’s prayer
that his ummah will be known for love of children.
Undeniably many are doing well but at the same time
many are doing badly even in their early teens and are
clearly heading for disaster UNLESS WE INTERVENE AS
BRETHREN BECAUSE THE RESPONSIBILITY FALLS
ON US AS WELL! Remember those evergreen words
from our Beloved “ Everyone of you is a shepherd…….”
“High risk settings do not just happen. They are
the result of policies and choices that cumulatively
determine whether families will have adequate incomes,
whether neighbourhoods will be safe or dangerous,
whether schools will be capable of teaching, whether
health care will be available –in short, whether young
people will be helped or hindered while growing up.”
(Losing Generations:Adolescents In High Risk Settings;
National Research Council , National Academy Press,
Washington D.C.1993)
30
VOI Volume 02/2011
L!.&$%&.#)2&# *$.&.5!&"#4!&*9&169#6.%&16&%160)!&/#4!6.&%!..160%&.1!-&$/&,1.5&.5!&04*,160&9!7161<#.1*6&*9&/*C!4.+&34%.&
studied in-depth in the USA. In many cases these single parents have to suffer the fate of miserable incomes
which are well below the poverty line or in the extreme prostitute themselves and leave the care to the infant to the
grandparents. The infants are seldom infused with wholesome care
They miss the immunoglobulin in the colostrum of their mother’s milk with its transfer factors etc particularly the
strengthening of the mother-child bond effected in part by breast feeding. After hectic and sometimes harrowing
hours of work, the mother transmits her stress to both the infant and the caregivers. In early Arab society because
of the horrors of city life, the young child is given to the foster care of Bedouin foster milk mothers learning Arabic in
its pure form, breathing in the pure air of the desert and enjoying the company of horses , camels, goats etc. Most
importantly the love of the milking mothers and the foster siblings is of tremendous importance. We remember that
.5!&D4*/5!.&E$5#77#-&)!#46!-&5*4%!W41-160&#6-&%,177160&16&#6&#4.13"1#)&/**)&94*7&51%&9*%.!4&9#71)+:&G*&17/*4.#6.&
are those formative years.
Exacerbating the problem are the following. They do not learn the Quranic motto of halalan toyyiban mubarakan or
HTM in short. HTM is not just about diet but other things as well but just consider that the food that the infant or
young child needs is often inadequate or worse still ones that lead to problems such as obesity, diabetes, high blood
pressure, heart diseases and even cancers. If one wants the infant or young child to accept the HTM philosophy,
one has to be a role model rather than smoking at home, bingeing on fast foods and eating at coffee shops and
restaurants where the condition of the food handlers and the toilets completely contradict HTM. Arrogant dismissal
of the dangers of second hand smoke really detracts from the dignity of the parents or care-givers. They would never
accept the fact that they are nicotine addicts nor the fact that nicotine is several times more addictive than morphine
16&*/1$7:&I5!&9#".&.5#.&G$)#17#6&T$(#471&&?%5&G5#9!1&?)&E1%41&?)&?<5#41&&#6&X#)17&#.&.5!&5105!%.&)!C!)&*9&E$(.#51-&3)&
Mazhab said that the cultivation, smoking and selling of cigarettes is Haram is not just glossed over by these addicts
but probably unknown to them.
Rather than teaching wholesome congenial tauhid to the infant, a distorted interpretation of Allahumma innie a’uzubika
minal khubusi wal khabaith meaning “O Allah protect me from the male and female jinn” whereas the real meaning
of kabaith (foul) is clearly indicated in Surah Baqarah of the Quran. Whereas Allah is the Source of Compassion and
Love, the child often is taught concepts which contradict the axiological Quranic truths thus affecting the EQ of the
child at a very young age . Brushing the teeth and strengthening the gums, bathing thoroughly in a clean toilet and
absolutely rational cleansing of the perineal areas are part of the perennial cleanliness regime of a believer something
which is lacking in food handlers in many places. A question that is often asked is this :If the toilet is dirty, how can
the food be halal? If the food handler smokes , wherever possible, how can the food that he makes be wholesome?
If his own nails are dirty how can the prata he kneads be halalan toyyiban?
In negative settings by the time they are supposed to go to pre-school centres they do not have the necessary
modicum of IQ, EQ, CQ, lingual, let alone bilingual basics. In Singapore thankfully apart from Government subsidies
for childcare education, there is the Educational Trust Fund but because pre-school education is not compulsory,
some do escape the net. This is where neighbours, residents committees, even mosques or local NGOs can help
out without being intrusive, loud or insensitive. This skill of communicating with disadvantaged families is not mere
commonsense but is based on niche skills relevant also for communicating with elders, drug addicts, gangsters,
teenage mothers etc etc. Common sense alone is certainly not enough. For example you don’t talk loud or shout at
a hearing–impaired elder. You have to talk to them at a high-tone while sitting beside them not in front of them.
In many countries children are put in foster care but studies have shown that children who have gone through the
foster care stage don’t do well as adolescents or as youths.
We are taught that the best marital choice are those where the prospective spouses are truly spiritual and moral
and that is what is meant by the religious priority in marital choices not the mere donning of sartorial regimes which
16&-1%.#%.!9$)&!F.4!7!&9*47%& +&.5!&,#+&#4!&"*6.4#4+&.*&3.4#5&#6-&X#S):&G+!-16#&Q7#4&-!7*6%.4#.!-&.51%&,5!6&5!&
,*$)-&6*.&#""!/.&.5!&"5*1"!&*9&#&/!4%*6&9*4&#&(* &($%.& #%!-&*6&.5#.&/!4%*6O%&4!0$)#4&0!6$V!".1*6%&*9&/4#+!4&16&.5!&
mosque.”Is that all that your choice is based upon?”
VOI Volume 02/2011
31
")!*%
U&B$)&/)R#)W)(E1&F)(1F)<*#W)\
Death is a miniature hour - Prophet Muhammad s.a.w
“Every soul shall taste death” –Quran
“Death is a leaf on the tree of life”- Rumi
“Sleep is the brother of death” - Muhammad s.a.w
BismillahirraHmaa-nirraHeem.
!"#$%"!&'%"()"*++&$"#$%" !-!.#%+/"01&2.(34,"#$%"
!-!.#%+/"5&6!&!.'(34
AlHamdu Lillahi Rabbil ‘Aalameen
All praise (ultimately) belongs to Allah ,
Lord –Cherisher and Nourisher of the Universe
ArRaHmaa-nirraHeem
!-!.#%+/"01&2.(34"," !-!.#%+/"5&6!&!.'(34"
Maliki yau middeen
King and Owner of the Day of Judgement
Iyyaka na’ budu, wa iyyaka nasta ‘een
You alone we worship and serve , You alone we
implore for help
IhdinaSSiraTal musta qeem
Guide us to the right way , the way of those who
do not incure Your Displeasure nor go astray.
Aameen
Amen.
32
VOI Volume 02/2011
It is important to note that death itself is an event not the annihilation of the being. Death does not mean the absence
of life. Itr is intiqal in Urdu meaning transfer.The Quranic verse tells us that the human being will not be annihilated
but that he will taste death. The key word is “taste”. In other words God Who Controls Life and Death tells us that we
merely taste death . What does tasting death mean?
Death by no means destroys us. Death is merely a corner in the highway of life or in the words of Idries Shah , a
very dependable conveyance to a higher life –the real life in the words of the Quran.The Urdu word “intiqal” meaning
transfer is very apt in this regard!
Lataif e Ruh or Soul
Lataif e Qalb or Spiritual Heart
Lataif e Nafs of seven aspects
L,',4)($(E+,7(6-('+$(M4""$&(H!>'*$'2(
L,',4)($(IC+7(6-(N6/'(M4""$&(H!>'*$'2(
Lataif e Sirr or the Secret Subtlety
!"#$!%&#!'(()*+(!(#!,))!-)'(&!./!"#$0!1)'0
It is yourself that you fear – use your intelligence !
It is your countenance that is ugly, not the visage of death;
Your soul is a tree on which death is the leaf .
The Quran mentions only the ruh, the qalb and the
nafs. There is a reference to a lub which may mean the
brain. Whereas the qalb is the seat of ilm which leads to
God, the brain is the seat of the rational faculty which
accumulates information (ma’lumat) and is the seat of
our mundane, worldly thinking, particularly the frontal
lobe mentioned in the Quran.
Science tells us that once the chemical telemerese in our body dries up we are dead whether we are apparently
healthy or not. It appears, perhaps coincidentally, that with the lessening of telemerese in late life, the body is more
prone to illness and the person is more prone to illness or accident. As one saying of the Prophet relates 77 things
will try to attack a person but if all these fails, he falls in his old age and dies ultimately from the effects of that fall.
The Islamic religion reminds its followers about the inevitability of the transition called death.
There is a hadis which mentions all the six lataif sitta
above and there is yet another quoted by that eminent
H!7(N,!*,&,(I**,+(O,-(E+,&(4&(A,*,$*(H!*!C(0+49+('$**/(
of the Prophet touching or tapping the physical chakralike location of the six subtleties.
When so-called calamity of any kind occurs, the believer is encouraged to say “INNA LILLAHI WA INNA ILAHI RAJI’UN”
“Verily from God we come and verily unto Him we shall return “ Each morning when he gets up he is encouraged to
praise God for reviving him from a death–like state and indeed the dreams of sleep are like the experiences that a
person in the after-death state (barzakh) experiences and which makes even the resurrected evil-doer being awaiting
!"#$%$&'()$$*('+,'('+$(,)'$-."$,'+(/','$(0,/(1$-2(3$$'4&#5(
Some ancient mystics mention that the purpose of
religion is to unify all the above otherwise the human
being will remain a bundle of contradictions, many
selves going in different directions.
As the Persian poet Rumi tells us
“We have tarried but only for an hour “ they say. At another place the dead among these rejectors of truth after being
resurrected exclaim “Who has awakened us from our place of rest?” (Both quotations are from the Quran. )
The saying of the Prophet “Sleep is the brother of death” makes us understand that in many ways sleep like death
is temporary and the experiences during sleep which we call dreams are analogous to the experiences that we
experience in the state of death.
It is the Nafs which is the Essential Human Personality.
The different aspects or stages are :1) Nafs Amarrah bis Su’ which is the animal self and
'+$(!&>-4"*$"($#6(0+49+(4/(&$1$-(/,'4/7$"(,&"(C$$8/(6&(
pursuing its unbridled desires (Quran 12: 53)
It is amazing that the Quran tells us that sleep and death are part of the same process. In sleep the soul which leaves
the body returns to the body thus ending the state of sleep.In death the soul leaves the body but does not return.
God says to the soul (at death) “We have now unveiled from you your covering and your sight today is piercing”
(Quran 50:22).
In other words, the human being at death sees the actual situation, that which has been possessed solely by the
Prophets and the saints who taste reality. The Prophet said “People are asleep and when they die, they awake”
2) Nafs Lawwamah or the Conscience which is pricked
if the person is doing bad and this conscience feels
good when he does good. ( 75:2)
The qubr state symbolises the interspace (barzakh) between life on earth and the real hereafter. It is one of the stages
6)(6!-($16*!'46&(,)'$-("$,'+(,&"('+$(7-/'(8*,9$(0+$-$(0$(/$$('+$(%,&4)$/','46&(6)('+$(:-68+$';/(06-"/(<=+$($,-'+(4/(
the tilling place of the hereafter”
“The qubr i.e the barzakh, not the tiny space on earth is one of the many stages of the hereafter”
“From stage to stage (tabaq an tabaq) you will be brought forward”
4) Nafs Mutmainnah or the Self at Peace (89: 27-30)
Our Spiritual Apparatus and the reality of the Ruh
The Ruh is given on loan to us from the spiritual world. It is the pure spirit that is not affected by evil and is the bridge
>$'0$$&(!/(,&"('+$(/84-4'!,*(06-*"5(?+$&(0$(,-$(,/*$$8@(6!-(-!+(#6$/(6&(,(34#+'5(A-(B6&$/(,(/94$&'4/'(6)(8/29+49(
8+$&6%$&,(+,/(',C$&(/94$&'479(4%,#$/(DE4-*4,&FG(6)(/6%$(/!>'*$(/!>',&9$(*$,14&#('+$(>6"2(0+$&('+$(8$-/6&(),**/(
asleep. The location of the ruh whether it is within or without our body is an issue of no practical importance and is
left for those who specialise in spiritual pyschology, transpersonal psychology or parapsychology.
Our nafs remains with us when we are asleep otherwise we would be stone–dead , not breathing and cold blue.
=+$(H84-4'!,*(I88,-,'!/(4/(C&60&(4&(H!7/%(,/(*,',4).$./4'',(6-('+$(/4J(/!>'*$'4$/K.
VOI Volume 02/2011
33
3) Nafs Mulhimma or the Self with values from parents,
education and religion
5) Nafs Radiah or the Self that is Pleased with
GOD(89:27-30)
6) Nafs Mardiah or the Self that realises the Pleasure of
God (89:27-30)
PG( Q,)/( E,%4*,+( 0,/( H,72,( 0+49+( 4/( '+$( H$*)( '+,'( 4/(
:$-)$9'$"(,&"(:!-47$"5
It is the human self –the Nafs Mutma-inna -that enters
into the stage of barzakh and ultimately Hell or Heaven.
This is indicated in the verse in the Quran:
“Ya Nafsatul Mutma’innah“ “O Self
peace………..enter you into my Garden”.
that
is
at
Is it the minimum condition of entry into heaven or do
0$(&$$"('6(#6('6(,(/84-4'!,*(+6/84',*('6(>$(8!-47$"(>$)6-$(
proceeding on our journey towards ?
As for the Ruh it returns to the spiritual world. As the
Quran states” Of the Ruh you have been given little
knowledge(‘ilman galilan) “ (Quran 17:85)
Remember that the Prophet said that there are no
ghosts , no ghoul that leads people astray, no serpent in
an empty belly …..That pertains to the subject of energy
emanations which explains the poltergeist phenomenon
(Idries Shah: Oriental Magic)
Upon death, the real person continues his journey
towards God, after his checking, according to some
people, his earthly stations for a short while, perhaps
an initial seven days, forty days, one hundred days
or according to others one year but apart from Shiah
sources, these timings have no references in the Quran
or Hadith and appear to be based on popular lore,
perhaps with some inkling of truth but nonetheless
popular lore.
WHAT CAN THE LIVING DO FOR THE
DEAD ?
There must be meaning in everything which God wants
us to uncover. What do we do now after someone dies?
Do we forget the dead on the basis that life must go on
or shall we languish to the last days of our life out of
sheer grief?
It is important that we do not persist in unrestrained grief
or in unrestrained joy because Islam prescribes balance
in everything.That is why we say “Alhamdu Lillah ‘ala
kulli hal “( Praise be to God in everything) In death is life,
because the dead are in the real life and we are the living
dead because we are overwhelmed by khayal, illusion
albeit illusion with meaning for those who know. Perhaps
this is the real meaning of Maya
“You think the mountains are stationary
Nay! they are moving like the clouds are moving”
-Quran
Such is the illusion of our life.
Maya or not, we break down when faced with the
death of our beloved. The Prophet wept tears at his
mother’s grave. He cried when he held his 16 month
year old Ibrahim who died in his arms. It was then that
+$(9*,-47$"('+,'(0+4*$(0,4*4&#(,&"(/9-,'9+4&#('+$(9+$$C/(
and exaggerating the praise for the dead is not allowed,
tears are alright, normal crying too. He said that if it was
not for the promise of reunion and that their successors
would join their predecessors , they would mourn even
more.(Tabaqat ibn Sa’d) When his uncle Hamzah died in
defensive battle , the whole of Madinah wept.
I/C( )6-( +4%( '6( >$( %,"$( 7-%5( M$( 4/( >$4&#( T!$/'46&$"(
now.”
The Prophet made a thin slab for the grave of his
ascetically-prone companion Othman Mazun r.a when
he died and in another hadith the Prophet had put some
putty or gypsum where he found a hole in the grave. But
then the graves then were very simple and certainly
not as ostentatious as they exist today. They were thus
made to protect the animals from devouring the corpses
6-()-6%(>$4&#(!&961$-$"(>2(3,/+(366"/($'95(
Think not evil of Allah Who not only will not wrong
you even in the minutest detail but will reward you
immeasurably and magnanimously not only for the good
that you did, but the good that you truly intended to do.
The dead are not “refrigerated” until the Day of
Judgement. This concept that they are in a kind of
“suspended animation“ situation, contradicts the
creative power of Allah. The good among them are doing
much more for us with prayers and supplications, There
are innumerable stories about their earthly activity after
'+$4-("$,'+/('+,'(4'(4/("4)79!*'('6(/,2('+,'(4'(4/(%$-$(),&',/25
But what can we do for them? What can we do for our
beloved ones who will be our companions in heaven ,
Insha’Allah. We will have our loved ones over there, all
those who meant something to us, sooner or later for it is
the destiny of everyone to reach God “Certainly we come
from God and certainly unto Him we shall return” (Quran)
“There are many things which the living can do to help the
dead. They include reading the Yasin which will invite the
angels of mercy to come close, enable the endorphins
6-(9+$%49,*/(6)(+,884&$//('6(360()-$$*2@(&$#,'4&#(8,4&@(
make other supplications for them, do for them acts of
generosity,haj, fasting and other sorts of worship. These
can be attributed to the dead person with Allah’s grace.
Even more important than all these is to settle the dead
8$-/6&;/( "$>'/( 0+$'+$-( '+$2( >$( 7&,&94,*( 6-( /84-4'!,*.
debts to other living persons or debts of worship owed
'6( RSA( I*%4#+'25( =+$( 7-/'( 9+,-#$( 6&( ,( "$,"( %,&;/(
estate are the funeral expenses and the debts he owes
to others.
Some are saying that only the righteous children of
a deceased person can pray for him or her. This is
contradicted by the Quran which states
“Those who have come after them say “Our Lord forgive
us and our brothers who preceded us in faith”
(Quran: Chapter Hashr) Allah in the Quran praised them
for asking for forgiveness for the believers before them.
He indicated that they are helped when the living ask
for forgiveness for them. Note that the Quran says that
angels pray for the forgiveness of all dwellers on earth !
The Prophet said “ When you pray for a dead person ,
make sincere supplication for him”
?+$&( '+$( :-68+$'( 7&4/+$"( >!-24&#( /6%$6&$( +$( /'66"(
over him and said “ Ask forgiveness for your brother .
The Prophet said
<U)( ,( N!/*4%( 4/( ,)349'$"( 04'+( ,&2( '-6!>*$@( 96&'4&!6!/(
pain, anxiety, sorrow, harm, disaster and even a thorn
which he is pierced with, Allah expiates his minor sins
thereby.”
“There is no Muslim on whom calamity of illness or what
is beside it befalls except that Allah drops his sins in its
exchange just as a tree drops its leaves”
The companion of the Prophet, Abu Hurairah said that
a man said to the Prophet “My father has died and left
some property but he did not leave a will. Will he be
rewarded if I make an act of charity on his behalf ?” The
:-68+$'(,&/0$-$"(,)7-%,'41$*25
Another saying said that God sometimes removes
a person because he is too burdened on earth and
another that God only removes a person from earth only
because he wants to forgive him.
Of course there are traditional ways of helping the dead
for example by the funeral prayer immediately after the
burial, by recitation of the Quran, by supplication, by
doing charity, by performing optional worship for the
dead (sunat ghaib).
H4&9$-$(8-,2$-/(>$&$7'('+$(8$-/6&(0+6(4/(8-,24&#5(V2(4'(
three things can happen. God answers his prayers but
remember that God’s Wisdom is never abrogated by His
Generosity. Secondly some of his sins are erased. He
#$'/('+$(>$&$7'(6)(4'(4&('+$(M$-$,)'$-5(=+4/(4/('+$(%$,&4&#(
of one of the sayings of the Prophet.
But don’t overdo your prayers and deeds for the dead,
to such an extent that it becomes an irrational burden.
to such an extent,that one doubts whether you really
>$*4$1$('+,'(R6"(4/(I**(W6-#414&#@(U&7&4'$*2(N,#&,&4%6!/5(
References Various tafasir of Al Quran
Robson’s Mishkat al Masabih
Fazl Karim’s Al Hadis
Ibn Qayyim’s Journey of the Soul
34
VOI Volume 02/2011
!"#$%&'()*+' , ! ,*+-.
"$/$"$+0!1(*/(2343(-+0(,+',56 '(/*"( 6$(5$+$"-.($.$) ,*+'(*/(2344
Hatem ETE, Nuh YILMAZ, Kadir ÜSTÜN
SETA Policy Report, No. 5, February 2011
We are seeing the volatile nature of Middle Eastern
politics and we should never gloss over a great Asian
nation namely Turkey where Islamic democracy
confronts a militaristic anachronism. We pray that justice
will prevail. Aameen Ya Rabbal ‘Aalameen.
This is the summary of a truly scholarly
report :
The constitutional referendum of September 2010 was
a historic moment and a milestone in modern Turkey’s
"$%69-,'4X,'46&( 6!-&$25( H$-14&#( ,/( '+$( 8!>*49;/( <7&,*(
say” on the question of democracy in Turkey and paving
the way for a new civilian constitution, the referendum
will have far-reaching consequences for civil-military
relations, independence of the judicial system, and
institutionalization of democracy in Turkey. This study
investigates the consequences of the referendum for the
shaping of the political scene in Turkey by analyzing the
political parties’ campaign strategies, voting patterns,
voter preferences, and likely scenarios for the June 2011
general elections.
The report is divided into four main parts that tackle
the main questions that the referendum of 2010 raised.
W4-/'@( 0+,'( 4/( '+$( /4#&479,&9$( 6)( '+$( H$8'$%>$-( YZ[Z(
constitutional referendum in Turkey? Second, what
campaign strategies were most effective during the
referendum? Third, what can be deduced from the
voting patterns and voter preferences? Fourth, what
can we predict about the June 2011 general Elections
based on voter behaviors during the constitutional
referendum of 2010? The study of the September 2010
96&/'4'!'46&,*( -$)$-$&"!%( -$/!*'/( -$1$,*$"( /4#&479,&'(
clues as to what could be the results of the June 2011
general elections. The AK Party’s referendum campaign
strategy, constructed around “democratic freedoms,”
resonated strongly among voters in Turkey. Having
VOI Volume 02/2011
35
analyzed the geographic distribution of votes during the referendum, this report demonstrates that the opposition
parties took the risk of becoming merely local or regional parties while the AK Party was the only party with the political
discourse that would address the themes that concerned voters across Turkey. The June 2011 general elections
may prove to be the most important elections in Turkey’s recent electoral history. Just as a strong preference for
“democratic freedoms” among voters became clear during the referendum, the upcoming general election in Turkey
is poised to determine who is to survive Turkey’s political landscape over the next decade.
ASSOCIATION OF MUSLIM LAWYERS
=+$(I//694,'46&(6)(N!/*4%(L,02$-/(0,/(6)794,**2(-$#4/'$-$"(6&(YY(H$8'$%>$-(YZZ\(,&"(6)794,**2(
gazetted on 16 October 2009.
The objects of the Association are as follows:-
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
To assist the government of the Republic of Singapore on matters in connection thereto.
To work closely with Local authorities, the Judiciary, Statutory Boards, public instructions
and establishments in the Republic of Singapore.
To develop a system of reporting of decided cases of Syariah Court of the Republic of
Singapore, including write-ups and/or opinions in connection thereto.
To assist or, where it is possible to provide mean(s) for members their career and life in law.
To do any other act(s) for the attainment of due or more of the above subjects.
The Association shall not engage in or encourage, discriminatory practices against non-Muslim
institution, business or individual, nor engage in any activity inimical to racial and religious harmony in
Singapore.
The Association membership is open to all practising, in-house and non-practising lawyers, legal of79$-/@(%$%>$-/(6)(,9,"$%4,(,&"(*,0(/'!"$&'/(:]S^UA_A(IL?IOH('+,'(&6&.N!/*4%(%$%>$-/(/+,**(
only be Associate members.
The Associations primary role apart from what had been stated is to assist, guide and advise institutions, Muslim and non-Muslim as to the interpretation of the Islamic Law and its principle, particularly
4&(U/*,%49(>,&C4&#@(7&,&9$(,&"(6'+$-(-$*,'$"(%,''$-/5
It will also work closely with similar association or organization of other countries and whenever possible, will hold seminar with leading Islamic experts or authorities of other countries for the enhancement of the Syariah Law and its principles thereof.
The Association always welcome institutions that are
based locally and those overseas, in order to tap and
enhance the resources and expertise of the Association
through its members and websites.
The Association also take cases channeled to them
from the Courts and Legal Clinic, by providing free
legal service and representing the applicant in Court,
in criminal, civil and Syariah matters, and also provide
legal advice whenever called upon.
The Association patrons and advisers are Mr Abu
Bakar Maidin, former President of Jamiyah and Mr
]4"X0,&(AX,7-@()6-%$-(I%>,//,"6-(,&"(:-$/4"$&'(6)(
Majlis Ugama Islam.
In conclusion, the Association which comprise about
30 members, have to – date taken and provided free
service to more than 30 applicants Muslim and non –
Muslim.
email: [email protected]
L to R: Cik Hawa Zeenath Jailani, Mr Sadari Musari, Mr Yahya
Syed , Mr Syed Ahmad Jamal Chishty, Hj Abu Bakar Maidin,
Cik Saleha Johari, Mr Faizal Wahyuni and Mr Abdul Aziz Abdul
Rashid.
36
VOI Volume 02/2011
7 -#,+5( 6$(6-"0("*-0&(8(%*! 6(
5-+5(9,*.$+)$(,+("$' "*':$)
The recent spate of youth gang violence that resulted in the death of nineteen-year
old Darren Ng Wei Jie who was attacked by a group of persons and died as a result
of the serious injuries he sustained in the assault, as well as the armed rioting at
Bukit Panjang have brought to the forefront many deep-seated issues that need to
be confronted and tackled.
Concerns regarding these cases are whether laws need to be tweaked to give more police power and sentencing
options to deal with gangs and youth violence and more importantly the role and the need of the Government
agencies to continue to support the social network both within the family and the community.
Support networks need to reach out to the groups that are at risk and bring them into the community. However, the
N4&4/'$-(6)(H','$()6-(_"!9,'46&(,&"(M6%$(I)),4-/@(N-(N,/,#6/(`!*C434(9,!'46&$"(,#,4&/'(61$-/4%8*4)24&#('+$(/6*!'46&(
to the recent problems which are multi-faceted and need customized solutions (Channelnewsasia, 16th November
YZ[ZG5(M$(/'-$//$"('+,'('+$($J4/'4&#(*$#4/*,'46&()-,%$06-C(4/(,9'!,**2(/!)794$&'@(>!'(0$(,*/6(+,1$('6(>$()6-0,-"(*66C4&#(
and to look at the kind of trends our youths go through such as the environment that they live in. He asserts that we
have to ensure that these are all coherent in addressing the issues, so that “relevant laws can be put into play to
address the issues.”
Before youth at the fringes cross the line, everyone
including the community, and schools, must play a part.
There are of course programmes currently available to
help youth-at-risk such as school droupouts. However
,-$('+$(9!--$&'(8-6#-,%%$/(/!)794$&'('6(,""-$//('+$/$(
problems? With the recent spate of events, many
question if more can be done to tackle these issues.
Voice of Islam speaks to the Executive Director, Jamiyah
Counselling Unit, Jamiyah Singapore, Mr Mustaffa
Marican, on the reasons why youths usually get involved
4&(#,&#/5(U/(4'(,(9,/$(6)(8$$-(4&3!$&9$(6-("2/)!&9'46&,*(
families? He commented that there are usually various
reasons. It may be a case of youths coming from a
dysfunctional family or the individuals wanting to have a
sense of belonging. It could also be the feeling of having
power. An important factor pointed out by Mr Marican,
is that some join gangs because of the perceived
<4&3!$&9$a('+,'(96%$/(04'+(>$4&#(,(#,&#(%$%>$-@('+,'(
is, the recognition in the social strata that comes with
joining gangs.
VOI Volume 02/2011
37
The viciousness of the recent incident raises the question
as to what may have caused the violent mentality in the
youths. Is it the peer pressure, herd mentality or is it
'+$( %$"4,( '6",2( 0+49+( #*6-47$/( 146*$&9$5( U'( %,2( >$( ,**(
three. The herd mentality is where people of the same
inclination group together and in this case the group
who have negative feelings band together. The pressure
to conform to certain behaviour then sets in. The media
,*/6( 8*,2/( ,( -6*$( ,/( 7*%/( #*6-4)2( #,&#/'$-/( )6-( '+$4-(
<,9+4$1$%$&'/a(04'+('+$(%, 6-4'2(6)(7*%/('6",2(4&16*14&#(
some level of violence and thus making gangsterism a
more socially acceptable norm.
These gang activities are usually not very visible in
school. Thus, authorities are unable to go through that
channel to curb gang violence. There will be the case of
bullying but for authorities to curb gangsterism through
'+$(/9+66*(9+,&&$*(06!*"(>$("4)79!*'(>$9,!/$(6)(/$1$-,*(
factors; mainly that teachers are not social workers nor
‘Taking the Hard Road’ –
Youth Gang Violence in Restrospect
The recent spate of youth gang violence
that resulted in the death of nineteen-year
old Darren Ng Wei Jie who was attacked
by a group of persons and died as a result of the serious injuries he sustained in
the assault, as well as the armed rioting at
Bukit Panjang have brought to the forefront many deep-seated issues that need
to be confronted and tackled.
are they law enforcement workers and as such are not
trained to handle such situations.
Efforts by community groups to tackle these gang
activities have been ongoing and it appears from the
recent events that we have to continue with our efforts
to control and remedy the situation.
One such endeavour by Jamiyah Singapore is its Max
Out programme; a programme to target out-of school
youths (OSY). This is an initiative under the Youth
Development Network, and it is a joint venture between
Yayasan MENDAKI, Jamiyah Business School and Ain
Society. Launched in 2005, Max-Out is a programme
that provides an alternative pathway for these OSY
youths to resume their education or be trained in the
necessary skills to make them job ready. To-date, more
'+,&( b[b( 26!'+/( D,/( 6)( YZZcG( +,1$( >$&$7'$"( )-6%( '+4/(
programme.
=+$( SHO( %!/'( >$( 6)794,**2( "$-$#4/'$-$"( )-6%( /9+66*(
before they can be considered for entry into the
programme. The majority of the OSYs left school
8-$%,'!-$*2("!$('6(7&,&94,*("4)79!*'2(6-(),%4*2(8-6>*$%/5(
Other problems include truancy, lost of interest in studies
and inappropriate behavior. These are the youths at risk
6)(>$4&#(4&3!$&9$"()!-'+$-('6($&#,#$(4&(#,&#(146*$&9$5(U'(
is hoped that with this programme, this group would be
able to acquire the necessary academic foundation to
gain entry into post-secondary institutions including ITE
,/( 0$**( ,/( "$1$*68( +4#+( /$*).96&7"$&9$@( /$*).-$*4,&9$(
and a positive outlook towards life and the future.
Students in the MaxOut program will undergo two
components; Academic Studies in Jamiyah Business
School and Character Development in AIN Society.
The programme offers two pathways being a return to
mainstream school for youths who left school for less
than 4 years and youths aged 14-18 years and with the
:-4%,-2( H9+66*( L$,14&#( 9$-'479,'$@( 0+$-$( '+$2( 04**( >$(
prepared to return to mainstream schools by enhancing
their competency in literacy and numeracy. At the end
of one academic year, Yayasan MENDAKI (YM) will
advocate for the youths to return to their school of
origin or other schools as recommended by the Ministry
of Education. This includes vocational schools like
Northlight and Assumption Pathway School.
Starting in 2011, students who show good academic
potential will be selected to sit for GCE ‘N’ levels as
private candidates. The exam fees will be fully borne by
YM. All youths pursuing this pathway will be required
to attend academic classes conducted by Jamiyah
Business School according to their last academic level.
Upon return to the mainstream school, the youths will
be inducted into the Youth-In-Action (YIA) programme
where they would be assigned mentors who serve as
positive role models in their lives.
Another pathway is where the youths acquire workbased skills. This programme is targeted to youths
who have left school for 4 years or more without having
-$9$41$"('+$4-(:-4%,-2(*$1$*(9$-'479,'$(,&"(,-$(,#$"([d.
18 years old.
This group of youths in Pathway 2 will be equipped
04'+( 06-C.>,/$"( /C4**/( 9$-'479,'46&/( '6( ),94*4','$( '+$4-(
entry into the workforce. These include the Workplace
Literacy and Numeracy (WPLN), Employability Skill
H2/'$%( D_HHG@( ?6-C)6-9$( HC4**/( e!,*479,'46&( D?HeG(
accreditation and other job readiness programmes.
Picture to be inserted
They will also be given a choice after 6 months to pursue ISC in Food & Beverage. Upon graduation, youths will be
assisted by MENDAKI SENSE Pte Ltd (MSPL) for job-matching.
All youths pursuing this pathway will be required to attend academic classes conducted by Jamiyah Business School
to enhance their competency in basic literacy and numeracy based on their last academic level.
All these efforts are to ensure that our youths, who are the biggest asset of the community, remain engaged in
positive activities and are able to contribute back to the community and society proactively. Over the years, we
encounter success stories which act as motivation for other youths. Amongst them would be the success of Md
W,-+,"(M!//$4&f(0+6("-688$"(6!'(6)(/9+66*(04'+6!'(,'',4&4&#(,(:HL_(9$-'479,'$5(M$(0,/([[('+$&5(W6!-(2$,-/(6&@(+$(
registered as a private N Level student. He passed his exams, attaining a Grade 4 and above for all his subjects! He
is now currently pursuing NITEC in Aerospace Manufacturing.
=+$()!**(-,%479,'46&(6)('+$(-$9$&'(#,&#(146*$&9$($1$&'/(+,1$(2$'('6(>$(!&"$-/'66"(>!'('+$(86/4'41$(6!'96%$(06!*"(
be the renewed actions taken by the many different groups in society to help our at-risk youths and ultimately the
community.
*Names cited in this article have been changed to protect their privacy
38
VOI Volume 02/2011
.,+#.- $"'(-..$+(;(5.$06,..
'!::*" '(<-1,%-6&'(:"*<$) (.$+0=-=6-+0
"$/$"$+0!1(*/(2343(-+0(,+',56 '(/*"( 6$(5$+$"-.($.$) ,*+'(*/(2344
!"#$%&'()%#!*$#+#,%)%&-,!"#$#.-,/!0)+!1#23!-,!4)%5$3)/6!78%1!9#:$5)$/!
2011 at the West Coast Student Service Centre to mark the completion
-;!<*$-=#(%!>#,3?)?@),3!8A7ABC!D1#!4&,E)F-$#!-;'(#!-;!>&,G2)%#$+! 22#,!
& Gledhill supports Jamiyah Singapore in this Community Engagement
Project.
Linklaters Allen & Gledhill’s sponsorship through “Project Lend-a-Hand” has helped up to 70 children from various
/9+66*/(0+6(,-$(7&,&94,**2.9+,**$&#$"@(>!'(0+6(/'4**(+,1$('+$(04**('6(/'!"25((=+4/(8-6 $9'(0+49+(/',-'$"(4&(YZZ\(04'+(
52 students was a pilot project to assist students who need a helping hand to score better results in their PSLE
Examinations, particularly in the subjects of Mathematics, Science and English. The students whose family household
income is below $2000, had been specially selected by their respective schools to attend classes free of charge. This
support allows the children to be tutored and prepared for their Primary School Leaving Examinations (PSLEs). The
8-6#-,%%$(0,/(7-/'(/',-'$"(4&('+$(_,/'(`6&$(,&"("!$('6(4'/(1$-2(86/4'41$(6!'96%$@(+,/(/4&9$($J8,&"$"('6(9,'$-('6(
students in the West Zone. In Singapore, there is a need to support those from “cradle to the grave”, not only in the
Muslim communities, but in the wider area in which Jamiyah plays an important role.
Dr Mohd Hasbi Abu Bakar, Vice-President II of Jamiyah Singapore and Chairman of Jamiyah Education Department,
4&(+4/(0$*96%$(,""-$//@($%8+,/4X$"(B,%42,+;/(7-%(>$*4$)(4&('+$(4%86-',&9$(6)(_"!9,'46&(,&"(*4)$.*6&#(*$,-&4&#(,&"(+$(
thanked Linklaters Allen & Gledhill for its support of this programme, which highlights its good corporate citizenship.
In the background Hon. S. Iswaran and President Hj. Abdul Karim Maidin
VOI Volume 01/2011
39
He also commended the school, staff and teachers for
carrying out the project diligently. The Guest-of-Honour
for the event, Mr S Iswaran, Senior Minister of State,
Ministry of Trade & Industry, Ministry of Education and
MP for West Coast GRC in his speech, expressed his
delight at the success of the project. He also praised
Jamiyah Singapore for focusing their assistance
programme on the lower economic group of families as
well as Linklaters Allen & Gledhill for its commendable
corporate social responsibility.
Mr S Iswaran, accompanied by Dr Mohd Hasbi Abu
V,C,-@( 8-$/$&'$"( '+$( g$-'479,'$/( 6)( :,-'4948,'46&( '6(
students. This was followed by a presentation of Letter
of Appreciation to Teachers and representatives of
Schools. There was an Award presentation to the top
3 students from both the Standard and Foundation
level by Mr S Iswaran accompanied by President of
Jamiyah Singapore, Tuan Hj Abdul Karim Maidin and Dr
Mohd Hasbi Abu Bakar. Tuan Haji Abdul Karim Maidin
presented a token of appreciation to Linklaters Allen &
Gledhill and a memento to the Guest of Honour.
,'.-1(-+0(>*1$+
?+$&("4/9!//4&#('+$(/','!/(6)(06%,&(4&(U/*,%@(4'(%!/'(>$(&6'$"('+,'(U/*,%(,*/6(+,/(/8$9479(#!4"$*4&$/@(*4%4','46&/@(-$/86&/4>4*4'4$/(,&"(6>*4#,'46&/()6-(%$&5(
Therefore it is crucial to understand that what makes one valuable and respectable in the eyes of Allah, is neither one’s prosperity, position, intelligence physical
strength nor beauty, but only one’s Allah-Consciousness and awareness (taqwa). As there are disparities in Islam’s culture just as there are in the cultures
4&3!$&9$"(>2(4'@(U/*,%;/(86/4'46&(6&(4%86-',&'(4//!$/(+,/('6(>$(/','$"(9*$,-*25
=+$(/','!/(6)(06%$&(4/(&6'(,(&$0(4//!$(,&"("$7&4'$*2(&6'(6&$('+,'(+,/(>$$&()!**2(/$''*$"5(=6(!&"$-/',&"(U/*,%;/(86/4'46&(6&$(%!/'(/$8,-,'$('+$(-$*4#46&()-6%(
the cultural norms and style of a society. Certain practices thought to be Islam’s practices although practiced in some Muslim societies, are viewed by the vast
majority of Muslims as unimaginable, abhorrent and unIslamic.
Human Rights
There is a verse in the Qur’an, from the chapter entitled “Women,” God says, “O mankind! reverence to your GuardianLord who created you from a single person, created, of like nature, His mate, and from them twain scattered (like
seeds) countless men and women;- reverence Allah, through whom ye demand your mutual (rights), and (reverence)
the wombs (That bore you): for Allah ever watches over you (4:1). Thus, in Islam women are made equally accountable
to God in worshipping and glorifying Him. There were no limitations set to her moral progress and her humanity is
equal to that of men as both came from the same essence.
Thus, as they are equal in their humanity, women cannot be by nature evil (as some religions believe) or then men
would be evil also. Similarly, neither gender can be superior because it would be a contradiction of equality.
Civil and Social Liberties
Other “rights” thought of to be Islamic such as women being forbidden to drive cars may be a result of certain
social situations in particular countries. Subjecting women to the humiliation of “instant” divorce is in fact not Islamic
practice at all but dictated by the society in which they live. In Islam, a woman has the basic freedom of choice and
expression based on recognition of her individual personality.
First, she is free to choose her religion. The Qur’an states: “Let there be no compulsion in religion. Truth stands out
clear from error.” (2:256)
In the social sphere, women are encouraged in Islam to contribute their opinions and ideas. There are many traditions
of the blessed Prophet which indicate women would pose questions directly to him and offer their opinions concerning
religion, economics and social matters.
In matters of matrimony, a Muslim woman makes her own decision on the choice of husband and maintains her name
after marriage.
A Muslim woman’s testimony is valid in legal disputes. In fact, in areas in which women are more familiar, their
evidence is conclusive
The right of a female to seek knowledge is not different from that of the male. The Prophet (saw) said: “Seeking
knowledge is a mandate for every Muslim (male and female).” Men and women both have the capacity for learning
and understanding. Since it is also their obligation to promote good behavior and condemn bad behavior in all
spheres of life, Muslim women must acquire the appropriate education to perform this duty in accordance with their
own natural talents and interests.
Islam recognizes and fosters the natural differences between men and women despite their equality. Some types of
06-C(,-$(%6-$(/!4',>*$()6-(%$&(,&"(6'+$-('28$/()6-(06%$&5(=+4/(4&(&6(0,2("4%4&4/+$/($4'+$-;/($))6-'(6-(4'/(>$&$7'5(R6"(
will reward both sexes equally for the value of their work, though it may not necessarily be the same activity.
Concerning motherhood, the Prophet (saw) said: “Heaven lies under the feet of mothers.” This implies that the success
6)(,(/694$'2(9,&(>$('-,9$"('6('+$(%6'+$-/('+,'(-,4/$"(4'5(=+$(7-/'(,&"(#-$,'$/'(4&3!$&9$(6&(,(8$-/6&(96%$/()-6%('+$(
sense of security, affection, and training received from the mother.
40
VOI Volume 01/2011
Political Sphere
Islam established the right of women to select their
leader and publicly declare so. Muslim women had the
right to vote as early as 1400 years ago. On any public
matter, a woman may voice her opinion and participate
in politics. One example, narrated in the Qur’an (60:12),
is that Muhammad (saw) is told that when the believing
women come to him and swear their allegiance to Islam,
he must accept their oath. Islam believes and does not
forbid a woman from holding important positions in
government.
Economics
Allah created men and women to be different as they
have unique roles, functions and skills. As in society,
where there is a division of labour, in a family, a wife and
husband have different roles and responsibilities. Islam
upholds that women are entrusted with the nurturing
role and men with the guardian role. Thus, women are
#41$&('+$(-4#+'('6(7&,&94,*(/!886-'5
N$&( ,-$( #41$&( '+4/( #!,-"4,&/+48( ,&"( #-$,'$-( 7&,&94,*(
responsibility by requiring that they provide women with
not only monetary support but also physical protection
and kind and respectful treatment. When Muslims die,
strict laws govern the shares of property and money
they may leave to others; daughters usually inherit less
than sons because the men in a family are supposed
to provide for the entire household. In such situations
+60$1$-@( 0+$&( '+$( %$&( ,-$( 7&,&94,**2( /',>*$( ,&"(
wealthy, they may choose to give their share to their
sisters. However, any money or property owned by
women is theirs and are not obligated to be shared.
Thus, the Muslim woman has the privilege to earn money,
the right to own property, to enter into legal contracts
and to manage all of her assets in any way she pleases.
She can run her own business and no one has any claim
on her earnings including her husband.
.
Rights and Obligations of a Wife
The Qur’an states: “And among His signs is that He
created for you mates from among yourselves that you
may live in tranquility with them, and He has put love and
mercy between you; Verily, in that are signs for people
0+6(-$3$9'5a(DbZKY[G(
Marriage is therefore not just a physical or emotional
necessity, but in fact, a sign from God. It is a relationship of
mutual rights and obligations based on divine guidance.
God created men and women with complimentary
natures, and in the Qur’an, He laid out a system of laws
to support harmonious interaction between the sexes.
VOI Volume 02/2011
41
A wife’s rights is to receive mahr, a gift from the husband
which is part of the marriage contract and required for
the legality of the marriage. The wife is also entitled to
maintenance. Despite any wealth she may have, her
husband is obligated to provide her with food, shelter
,&"(9*6'+4&#(,&"(7**(6)(*61$5(
God tells us that men are guardians over women and are
given the leadership in the family. His responsibility for
obeying God extends to guiding his family to obey God
at all times. Just as he is expected to guard her honor, a
wife is to keep her husband’s secrets and protect their
marital privacy. Both have rights and responsibilities
upon the other.
=+$/$(-6*$/(,&"(-$/86&/4>4*4'4$/(,/("$7&$"(4&(U/*,%(%,2(
be different because Islam recognizes and cultivates
men’s and women’s natural differences despite their
equality. Women are given roles, duties and rights just
as men are and are designed to keep the balance in
society.
6*>(>$.. 6-'( 6$(1$0,-(,+/*"1$0(-@*!
)*2(.$9$.'(,+( 6$(-,"?
Ask yourself, your friends, family and work associates if
they know the answers to the following questions about
Carbon Dioxide (CO2). Be sure to write your answers
before looking at the following pages.
( 6$
ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS
Respondent’s Answers: nearly all were 20% - 40%, the highest was 75% while the lowest were 10%- 2%.
Question 1.
What percentage of the atmosphere do you
think is CO2?
Question 2.
Have you ever seen the percentage given
in any media?
Question 3.
What percentage of the CO2 is man-made?
Question 4.
What percentage of the man-made CO2
does Australia produce?
Question 5.
Is CO2 a pollutant?
Question 6.
Have you ever seen any evidence that CO2
causes a greenhouse effect?
The Correct Answer: CO2 is less than a mere four 100ths of 1%! As a decimal it is 0.038%. As a fraction it
is 1/27th of 1%. (Measurements for CO2 vary from one source to another from 0.036%- 0.039% due to the
"4)79!*'2(4&(%$,/!-4&#(/!9+(,(/%,**(T!,&'4'2(,&"("!$('6(9+,&#$/(4&(04&"("4-$9'46&($5#5(0+$'+$-('+$(,4-(360(
is from an industrialized region or a volcanic emission etc) Nitrogen is just over 78%, Oxygen is just under
21% and Argon is almost 1%. CO2 is a minute trace gas at 0.038%. We all learnt the composition of the air
in both primary and high school but because most people don’t use science in their day to day living, they
+,1$( )6-#6''$&( '+4/5( I*/6@( '+$( 1,/'( >!*C( 6)( '+$( 868!*,'46&( +,1$( 1$-2( *4''*$( C&60*$"#$( 6)( /94$&9$( /6( '+$2( 7&"(
4'( 4%86//4>*$( '6( %,C$( !"#$%$&'/( ,>6!'( $1$&( >,/49( /94$&'479( 4//!$/( *$'( ,*6&$( 6&$/( ,/( 96%8*$J( ,/( 9*4%,'$5(
This makes it easy for those with agendas to deceive us by using emotive statements rather than facts. For
a detailed breakup of the atmosphere go to: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atmosphere_of_Earth#Composition
I have asked over 100 people these questions. Virtually
everyone says they don’t know the answers so ask
them to tell you what their perception is by what they
have learnt from the media, the government and Green
groups. Let them know there is no right or wrong
answer as you are just doing a survey as to what people
have perceived the answers to be from these sources.
The answers to these questions are fundamental to
evaluating the global warming scare YET almost no one
knows the facts. However, without this knowledge we
can’t make an informed decision about whether Climate
Change is natural or not.
Q4. What % of man-made CO2 does Australia produce?
Respondent’s Answers ranged from 20% to 5%.
=+$(g6--$9'(I&/0$-(4/([h(6)('+$(Z5ZZ[h(6)(%,&.%,"$(gSY5(I/(,("$94%,*(4'(4/(,&(4&/4#&479,&'(Z5ZZZZ[h(6)('+$(
air. That’s one, one-hundredth thousandth of the air. That is what all the fuss is about! That’s one CO2 molecule
from Australia in every 9,000,000 molecules of air. It has absolutely no affect at all.
We have been grossly misled to think there is tens of thousands of times as much CO2 as there is! Why has
such important information been withheld from the public? If the public were aware that man-made CO2 is so
incredibly small there would be very little belief in a climate disaster so the media would not be able to make a
bonanza from years of high sales by selling doomsday stories. Governments and Green groups would not be
able to justify a carbon tax that will greatly raise the cost of everything. Major international banks and the stock
%,-C$'(06!*"(&6'(%,C$(%,//41$(8-67'/(6!'(6)(9,->6&('-,"4&#(,&"(%,&2(4&('+$(/94$&9$(96%%!&4'2(06!*"(&6'(
be getting large research grants.
Q5. Is CO2 a pollutant?
On the following pages are respondent’s perceptions
followed by the correct answers. The bulk of the
respondents (over 100 to date) are educated fairly well
to very well. They comprise business managers in a
diversity of large and small companies, those in medical
profession, accounting, law, sales, engineering as well
as scientists and trades people.
Q2. Have you seen a percentage for CO2 given in the media?
Respondent’s answers: All said ’No’.
Q3. What % of CO2 do humans produce?
Respondent’s answers ranged from as high as 100% with most estimating it to be between 75% to 25% and
only four said they thought it was between 10% and 2 %.
The Correct Answer: Nature produces nearly all of it. Humans produce only 3%. As a decimal it is a miniscule
0.001% of the air. All of mankind produces only one molecule of CO2 in around every 90,000 air molecules!
Yes, that’s all.
Respondent’s Answers: All thought it was a pollutant, at least to some degree. The Correct Answer: CO2 is a
harmless, trace gas. It is as necessary for life - just as oxygen and nitrogen
are. It is a natural gas that is clear, tasteless and odourless. It is in no way a pollutant.
42
VOI Volume 02/2011
Calling CO2 a ‘pollutant’ leads many to wrongly
think of it as black, grey or white smoke. Because
the media deceitfully show white or grey ‘smoke’
coming out of power station cooling towers, most
think this is CO2. It is not: it’s just steam (water
vapour) condensing in the air. CO2 is invisible:
just breathe out and see. Look at it bubbling out
of your soft drinks, beer or sparkling wine. No one
considers that a pollutant - because it’s not. CO2
in its frozen state is commonly known as dry ice.
It is used in camping eskys, in medical treatments
and science experiments. No one considers that
a pollutant either. CO2 is emitted from all plants.
This ‘emission’ is not considered a pollutant even
though this alone is 33 times more than man
produces! Huge quantities of CO2 are dissolved
naturally in the ocean and released from the warm
surface. This is not considered a pollutant either.
What % of the air is CO2?
The climate has always been naturally cyclic and variable due to numerous natural drivers of which CO2 is not one.
Over millions of years the climate has shown far greater changes in the geological record than we have seen over the
last 200 hundred years - and there was no industrialization back then. The very minor variations we have witnessed
over the last 100 years have all occurred several times even in that short period. Today’s changes in climate are
common and completely natural. There are now over 50 books that provide numerous reasons why man-made global
warming is false.
The Effect of the Sun on Earth’s climate It has long been known that the Sun is by far the major driver of all weather on
Earth because it is the source of all heat and energy. There is absolutely no real-world evidence that the temperature
has continually risen as we were led to believe. The hottest records in the USA and Greenland were in the 1930s
due to a strong solar cycle. It became cooler from 1940 to 1970. This was due to a weak solar cycle. It has again
become increasingly colder since 2006 due to another weak solar cycle. The Sun’s magnetic storm activity has now
moved to an extended minimum so the next 2-4 maximums are expected to be much weaker than the last few have
been. By 2011 the solar cycle should have risen half way back to its 11 year maximum but it hasn’t! It’s only just
started. The last time the Sun acted this way was during the Dalton Minimum from 1790 to 1830 which produced
40 years of very cold winters with subdued, wetter summers globally - just as we are experiencing now. From 1450
-1750 a more intense Maunder Minimum occurred which caused the Little Ice Age. The next 2-4 solar cyvcles will
very likely be low in solar activity causing noticeably cooler global temperatures for a few decades. For details
see: http://wattsupwiththat.com/2010/02/02/solar-cycle-24-update and http://www.climatechangedenier.com.au/
climate-change/another-dalton-minimum/
The effect of the current Solar Minimum is particularly obvious in the northern hemisphere where increasingly colder
winter temperatures have caused massive snow falls disrupting transportation across Europe, Asia and the US.
Despite more than a decade of continual doomsday predictions of increasing temperatures and never-ending drought
globally, the opposite has happened. There have been lower temperatures globally with greatly increased rain and
/&60/(61$-(%!9+(6)('+$(8*,&$'(/4&9$(YZZi5(=+4/(+,/(9,!/$"(366"/(,9-6//(%6/'(6)(I!/'-,*4,(,&"(%6/'(6'+$-(96!&'4$/@(
as seen on the TV news. This ended the global 10 year drought conditions from the mid 90s to the mid 2000s. There
has been no drop in CO2 to cause this: in fact, CO2 has risen. There is no correlation between CO2 levels and climate.
The reason CO2 levels have gone up a little is most likely due to the surface of the oceans warming very slightly
during the later half of the century and therefore releasing a little CO2. (The oceans are currently cooling very slightly.)
Mankind’s contribution to CO2 is so small it’s not measurable.
Polls on Climate Change Polls in western countries now show that believers in man-made global warming are now
in the minority with a sizable percentage of over 20% who “don’t know” if CO2 is causing any change. The obvious
change to a cooler, wetter climate combined with the revelations of climate fraud shown by the Climategate emails
has led to the change in public perception. Polls asking people what is the most important threat to them out of a list
of 20 issues, place global warming at the bottom!
Popular beliefs are not fact
The bulk of the population of the western world believed that the 2000 Bug would destroy much of our technology on
New Year’s Eve 2000 yet not one disaster occurred anywhere. We were told CFCs caused the Ozone ‘hole’ yet after
billions of dollars were spent removing CFCs over 30 years, the slight depletion of Ozone at the South Pole has not
9+,&#$"5(H94$&'4/'/(&60('+4&C(4'(4/(&,'!-,*5(:68!*,-(>$*4$)/(,-$(6)'$&(>,/$"(6&(>*4&"(),4'+@(4"$6*6#2(,&"(8-67'(-,'+$-(
'+,&(8-61$&(/94$&'479($14"$&9$5(M4/'6-2(4/(*4''$-$"(04'+(868!*,-(96&/$&/!/$/('+,'(0$-$(0-6&#5
A Carbon Tax Taxing CO2 achieves nothing for the environment; in fact, it deprives real environmental issues from
receiving funds. A carbon tax will have a disastrous impact on lower and middle income earners. Even if drastic
measures were imposed equally on all countries around the world to reduce the total human CO2 contribution by
,/(%!9+(,/(bZh@('+4/(06!*"(-$"!9$('6',*(gSY(>2(,&(4&/4#&479,&'(8$-9$&',#$5(U'(06!*"(+,1$(&6(,))$9'(0+,'/6$1$-(
on the climate but it would totally destroy the economies of every country and dramatically lower everyone’s living
standards. Most people and politicians are making decisions emotively, not factually about a complex science they
know virtually nothing about.
Gregg D Thompson
Climate Researcher Astronomer Environmentalist Author of two
science books Business Manager and Director of 3 companies
Author of science magazine articles Designer and project manager
of special effects attractions Nature photographer Has a great
interest in most sciences Loves creating innovation in art
VOI Volume 02/2011
43
"-1@.,+5'(*/(6*.,' ,)(6$-. 6(
-+0(1$0,),+$(A)*+ ,+!- ,*+B
God has given you your mind
and body as a trust and
indicated to you symptoms
so that you can monitor the
well-being of your mind and
body or have you delegated
that trust to a doctor who
supplies you with antibiotics,
paracetemol and all those
things that don’t bring out the
best from you.
Does your daily bath truly refresh and renew you?
Do you brush your teeth and gums regularly and refrain from sweets as much as possible.
Do your bowels move regularly at least twice a day? Do you practice perineal cleanliness with soap dispensers, toilet
paper and lots of water ?
Have you a good appetite and do you stop eating before satiation with lawful and wholesome foods such as
1$#$',>*$/@)-!4'/(,&"(&6&.9+$%49,*4/$"(%$,'/(8,-'49!*,-*2(7/+F
Do you sleep your six to eight hours peacefully?
Do you feel enthusiastic about your work empowered by emotions of love and fraternity?
Do you feel fresh and active all day OR ARE YOU DRAGGED DOWN BY YOUR ADDICTION TO NICOTINE OR
WORSE?
Do you behave affectionately with the members of your family?
Do your eyes sparkle? Does your face glow ?
Does your chest measurement exceed the girth of your abdomen ?
A6(26!($& 62(#66"(+$,*'+($1$&(0+$&("4/6-"$-/(*4C$(96*"/(,&"(4&3!$&X,(,'',9C(8$68*$(,-6!&"(26!(F
Do you concentrate when you do your prayers and focus on the Source of Love, Power, Knnowledge and Compassion.
It is the perfect psycho-spiritual and physical paradigm that protects you from the stressors of life.
44
VOI Volume 02/2011
6$(1*"-.('%' $1(,+
"$9$-.$0("$.,5,*+
(Adapted from original article by S.M.Masum)
God has never left humanity without guidance either
from within its own psyche, conscience and reason or
as guidance from an immaculate Prophet. Revealed
religion has always been around since the time of Adam
and according to the development of society has laid
down fundamental rights, clothed with duties, for
humanity that are to be observed and respected
Islam came down in the 7th century C.E as the
completion of this revealed religion but like all previous
divine editions of revealed religion , has gone through
the windmill of history for good or for bad. For example
we have the spectre of deviant deviationists and
extremists and have receded from a veritable middle
and moderating nation to playing a backseat among the
nations of the world. The saving grace of Islam is that
the very same immutable constitution of Islam namely
Al Quran is still available in its pristine purity. To assist
in understanding the Quran , the entire corpus of the
words, silence and actions of the Prophet Muhammad
peace and blessings of Allah be upon him are available
but with the caveat that it is provided with different
levels of authenticity as some of the Hadith were written
decades later.
In order to realise these duties and rights in one’s
everyday social life, Islam provides both legal safeguards
and a very effective moral system. In brief, whatever
improves the well-being of an individual or a society
is morally good, and whatever harms this well-being
is morally bad. Islam attaches great importance to the
love of God and fellow human beings, and discourages
excessive formalism. We read in the Quran (what means):
“It is not righteousness that you turn your faces towards
East or West, but [true] righteousness is [in] one who
believes in Allaah, the Last Day, the Angels, the Book,
and the prophets and gives wealth, in spite of love for
it, to relatives, orphans, the needy, the traveller, those
who ask [for help], and for freeing slaves; [and who]
$/',>*4/+$/( 8-,2$-( ,&"( #41$/( `,C,,+j( k'+6/$( 0+6l( )!*7*(
their promise when they promise; and [those who] are
patient in poverty and hardship and during battle. Those
are the ones who have been true, and it is those who are
the righteous.” [Quran: 2:177]
These verses give a beautiful description of the righteous
and religiously committed individual. He should obey
VOI Volume 02/2011
45
/,*!',-2(-$#!*,'46&/(>!'(7J(+4/(#,X$(6&('+$(*61$(6)(R6"(
and the love of humanity. The main motive power within
a human being is not economic as perceived by Marx,
the sometimes subtle , sometimes overt power of sex
as understood by Freud but the love of God which
4/( -$3$9'$"( 4&( 6&$;/( *61$( )6-( 6&$;/( /$*)@( *61$"( 6&$/@(
humanity and eventually all life.
Your Destiny’s Prize
“The joys of life are great
Thought provoking are its pains
But unless you have loving God in mind
What truly are your gains?
You are unhappy not because of what you know
But because of what you have not realised,
Tis knowing God’s love my dear
Which is your Destiny’s Prize!
z.i.
An individual’s faith should be true and sincere and he
must be prepared to show it in deeds of charity to other
people and by living as a good citizen and supporter
of social organisations. Finally, individual faith must
-$%,4&(7-%(,&"(!&/+,C$&(4&(,**(94-9!%/',&9$/5=+4/(4/(
the standard by which a particular mode of conduct
9,&(>$(9*,//47$"(,/($4'+$-(#66"(6-(>,"5(U'(,*/6(8-614"$/(
the nucleus around which an individual’s and society’s
moral code should revolve. Before laying down any
%6-,*( 4& !&9'46&/@( U/*,%( /$$C/( '6( 4%8*,&'( 7-%*2( 4&(
man’s heart the conviction that his dealings are with
God, Who sees him at all times and in all places. While
he may hide himself from others or deceive them, he
cannot do so with God.
Islam teaches that the objective of one’s life is to live a life
that is pleasing to God This is a life which can be easily
appreciated by a rational human being.. To make such
a goal possible, Islam has provided humankind with the
highest possible standard of morality. This moral code,
which is both straightforward and practical, provides
the individual with innumerable ways to embark
upon and then continue the path of moral evolution.
By making Divine Revelation the primary source of
knowledge, moral standards are made permanent and
/',>*$5(M60$1$-@('+4/("6$/(&6'(%,C$('+$%(4&3$J4>*$@()6-(
there is room for reasonable adjustment and adaptation
when needed. The danger of moral relativism, now so
widespread in many societies, is thereby avoided.
I&6'+$-(>$&$7'(4/('+$(#-,"!,*(4&'$-&,*4/,'46&(6)('+$/$(%6-,*(/',&",-"/@()6-(6&$(/$$C/('6(6>$2('+$%(16*!&',-4*2(
to please God, not because some government or people tell him to do so. An individual’s belief in God, when
added to his belief in the Day of Judgement, is a powerful motivating factor to live a highly moral life.
Islam does not seek to minimise the importance of traditional and
commonly accepted moral norms or give exaggerated importance to some and neglect others.The Islamic
moral code incorporates all the commonly accepted moral virtues and then endows them with a sense of
balance and proportion, by assigning each one a suitable place and function in the scheme of life. It widens
the scope of man’s individual and collective life by dealing with his domestic associations, civic conduct,
and his activities in the political, economic, legal, educational and social realms. It covers his life from the
+6%$('6('+$(/694$'2@()-6%('+$("4&4&#(',>*$('6('+$(>,''*$7$*"(,&"(8$,9$(96&)$-$&9$/5(U&(/+6-'@()-6%('+$(9-,"*$(
to the grave – for no sphere of life is exempt from the universal and comprehensive application of the moral
principles of Islam. It makes morality reign supreme and ensures that the affairs of life are regulated by moral
&6-%/@(,&"(&6'("6%4&,'$"(>2(/$*7/+("$/4-$/(,&"(8$''2(4&'$-$/'/5
A major goal of Islam is to provide humankind with a practical and realistic system of life by which he can
conduct his life. It calls upon humankind not only to practice virtue, but also to establish it and to eradicate
all that is harmful. It seeks the supremacy of the conscience in all matters so that what is harmful cannot
gain the upper hand either in an individual’s life or in society. Those who respond to this call are known as
Muslims, which literally means those who have submitted to God. The sole object of the resulting community
6)(N!/*4%/(6-(m%%,+(4/(!&"$-',C4&#(,&(6-#,&4/$"($))6-'('6($/',>*4/+(0+,'(4/(#66"(,&"('6(7#+'(,&"($-,"49,'$(
what is evil and harmful.
Some of Islam’s basic moral teachings are given below. They cover the broad spectrum of a Muslim’s personal
moral conduct as well as his social responsibilities.
God-Consciousness
The Quran mentions God-consciousness as the highest quality of a Muslim, saying (what means): “…The
most noble of you in the sight of Allaah is the most righteous of you…” [Quran: 49:13]
M!%4*4'2@(%6"$/'2@(96&'-6*(6)(8,//46&/(,&"("$/4-$/@('-!'+)!*&$//@(4&'$#-4'2@(8,'4$&9$@(/'$,"),/'&$//(,&"()!*7**4&#(
one’s promises – all these moral values are mentioned many times in the Quran, such as (what means): “And
R6"(*61$/('+6/$(0+6(,-$(7-%(,&"(/'$,"),/'5a(ke!-,&K(bK[nl(
The Quran also tells Muslims (what means): “And hasten to forgiveness from your Lord and a garden [i.e.,
Paradise] as wide as the heavens and the earth, prepared for the righteous. Who spend [in the cause of
Allaah] during ease and hardship and who restrain anger and who pardon the people – and Allaah loves the
doers of good.” [Quran: 3:133-134] And: “…Establish prayer, enjoin what is right, forbid what is wrong, and
be patient over what befalls you. Indeed, [all] that is of the matters [requiring] determination. And do not turn
your cheek [in contempt] toward people [Rather, respect them by directing your face and attention to them.]
And do not walk through the earth exultantly. Indeed, Allah does not like everyone self-deluded and boastful.
And be moderate in your pace and lower your voice; indeed, the most disagreeable of sounds is the voice of
donkeys.” [Quran: 31:17-19]
The following statement of the Prophet (s.a) summarises the moral behaviour of a committed Muslim: “My
Sustainer has given me nine commands: to remain conscious of God in private and in public; to speak justly
whether angry or pleased; to show moderation when poor or rich; to rekindle friendship with those who have
broken it off with me; to give to him who refuses me; that my silence should be occupied with thought; that
my looking should be an admonition; and that I should command what is right.”
Social Responsibilities
The teachings of Islam regarding social responsibilities are based on kindness and consideration for others.
46
VOI Volume 02/2011
U/*,%( /'-$//$/( /8$9479( ,9'/( 6)( C4&"&$//( ,&"( "$7&$/(
the responsibilities and rights that belong to various
-$*,'46&/+48/5( S!-( 7-/'( 6>*4#,'46&( 4/( '6( 6!-( 4%%$"4,'$(
family – parents, spouse and children, then to other
relatives, neighbours, friends and acquaintances,
orphans and widows, the needy of the community, our
fellow Muslims, our fellow human beings and animals.
Parents
Respect and care for parents is a very important part
of a Muslim’s expression of faith. The Quran says (what
means): “And your Lord has decreed that you not
worship except Him, and to parents, good treatment.
Whether one or both of them reach old age [while] with
you, say not to them [so much as], ‘uff’ and do not repel
them but speak to them a noble word. And lower to
them the wing of humility out of mercy and say: ‘My
Lord! Have mercy upon them as they brought me up
[when I was] small.’” [Quran: 17:23-24]
Other Relatives
The Quran says (what means): “And give the relative his
right, and [also] the poor and the traveller, and do not
spend wastefully.” [Quran: 17:26]
Neighbours
The Prophet (s.a) said: “He is not a believer who eats
+4/(7**(0+4*$(+4/(&$4#+>6!-(4/(+!&#-2a(,&"K(<M$("6$/(&6'(
believe whose neighbours are not safe from his injurious
conduct.”
According to the Quran and Sunnah (traditions and
approved actions of the Prophet (s.a)), a Muslim
has to discharge his moral responsibility not only to
his parents, relatives, and neighbours but also to all
humankind, animals, and useful trees and plants. For
example, hunting birds and animals for sport is not
permitted. Similarly, cutting down trees and plants that
yield fruit is forbidden unless there is a very pressing
need for one to do so.
Thus, on the basic moral plane, Islam provides
humankind with a higher system of morality that can be
used by an individual to realise his greatest potential.
U/*,%(8!-47$/('+$(/6!*(6)(/$*)./$$C4&#($#6'4/%@('2-,&&2@(
wantonness, and lack of discipline. It creates Godfearing men who are devoted to their ideals, motivated
by piety, abstinence and discipline, who do not make
any compromise with falsehood. It creates moral
responsibility and fosters the capacity for self-control.
Islam generates kindness, generosity, mercy, sympathy,
8$,9$@( /$*3$//( #66"04**@( /9-!8!*6!/( ),4-&$//@( ,&"(
truthfulness towards all creatures in all situations. It
nourishes noble qualities from which only good may be
expected
But the natural equality of man and woman ie. one
that does not negate the innate qualities of either sex
is never marginalised by Islam. For example while the
06%,&(,/('+$(L,"2(6)('+$(M6!/$(4/('+$(7-/'('$,9+$-(6)(
her children, her special qualities which surpass even
VOI Volume 02/2011
47
men cannot be glossed over as we see in the story of Balqis who was the sovereign of the great nation of Sheba and
who underlined even in those ancient times the importance of shura or mutual consent in government.The spirituality
of Mary whose name is mentioned 34 times in the Quran is another case in point so also Aishah on whose account
an entire chapter namely Al Nur (The Light) was revealed.
“ All human beings are as equal as the teeth of a comb. There is no superiority of an Arab over a non Arab, of a non
Arab over an Arab, of a white man over a black man or of a male over a female. The only merit is God-conscious
righteousness.” ( Prophet’s words as quoted in Ahmad’s Al Musnad)
Conclusion
Islam is pre-eminently the religion of Peace and the Prophet only allowed going to war in self defence , or going to
the defence of oppressed nations but even in this regard the Prophet and the Quran have clearly forbidden scorch
earth policy, destroying fruit crops and grain, poisoning water channels or diverting them, frightening civilians and
non-combatants,
06%$&@(9+4*"-$&(,&"(,&9+6-4'$/@(,&"(%6/'(4%86-',&'*2(+$()6->,"$('+$(!/$(6)(7-$(6&(+!%,&/(,&"('+$(*$//$-(9-$,'!-$/5(
=+$( $,-*4$/'( )6-%/( 6)( 7-$,-%/( %,2( &6'( -$,**2( +,1$( '+$( "4%$&/46&( 6)( 7-$( >!'( '6",2( %6"$-&( ,-%,%$&'/( /!9+( ,/(
+604'X$-/@(%4//4*$/@(*,&"(%4&$/(,-$(+6--$&"6!/($J,%8*$/(6)('+$(!/$(6)(7-$(6)(0+49+(?NA/(,&"(&!9*$,-(0$,86&/(,-$(
clearly from the devil.
Five times a day most Muslims pray the optional prayer for World Peace
O ALLAH YOU ARE PEACE
PEACE COMES FROM YOU
HALLOWED ARE YOU
LORD OF INFINITE MAJESTY AND GLORY
The Biblical Jesus said “Blessed are the Peace Makers” and the real Muslim is not just giving the Islamic salutation
of Assalamu ‘alaikum wr. wb but doing all that is possible for durable peace in every area of human activity and
consciousness.
75,9$( 6$(#,0'(-('1,.$&
(/!+0"-,',+5(0,++$"
On 21 January 2011, several staff
of Jamiyah Singapore attended the
‘Give The Kids A Smile’ fundraising
dinner in support of children with
cleft palate and lips, organised by
Embassy of The Republic of Indonesia
with His Excellency Bapak Wardana,
Ambassador of The Republic of
Indonesia as the Guest of Honour.
Mrs Masrifah Wardana, Chairman of the Indonesian Women’s
Association gave a welcome speech followed by a presentation
by Dr Myra Elliott and acknowledgements by Mrs Gerti Iwatake.
There were angklung performances by the Indonesian Women’s
Association, a traditional Ngarojeng and Pembubung dance
performances and a fashion show. The funds raised from this event
held at the Indonesian embassy and which was organised by The
Indonesian Women’s Association, would go towards the hospital
stay and other associated costs for the affected Indonesian
children.
48
VOI Volume
Volume 02/2011
01/2011
VOI
:CDEFGH(I:CJKF(-CLMNO(
The precursor to the current HAARP weapons project that seeks to use nature as
a weapon, had as part of its objectives, “looking into ways to cause earthquakes.”
The point here is not whether some powers currently possess earthquake creation
technology but rather the fact that when an attempt is made at understanding the
increased frequency of global earthquakes in the recent past through the possibility
that testing of such a weapons system produced them (like the Haiti earthquake for
example), the mainstream media immediately discredits these attempts as “loony” or
“conspiracy”. Earthquakes can only be a “natural” disaster in their opinion, much like
the media presents economic downturns and the misery they cause, as something
naturally occurring and unavoidable.
Such labeling, that discredits the opposition as being
“loony”, overlooks the fact that the cumulative trillions of
dollars that go into military research into altering natural
patterns and using nature as a weapon, do so because
there is an implicit acknowledgment of the potential
possibility of doing just those things, like causing earthT!,C$/@(0+49+(,-$('$-%$"(</94$&'479(4&1$/'4#,'46&a(D,&"(
not lunacy) when those research projects are approved.
This shows how consciousness is manipulated by a
system that perfects ways and means of destruction,
through both direct propaganda and the vesting of
people in a system, questioning which becomes akin
'6( ,86/',/2( ,&"( /!886-'4&#( '+$( 6)794,*( 864&'( 6)( 14$0(
becomes “natural” and common sense. This is in line
with Antonio Gramsci’s concept of Cultural Hegemony,
a concept which has attained widespread circulation in
the sociological literature.
“Between the economic structure and the state with its
legislation and its coercion stands civil society, and it
is the latter which has to be radically transformed, in
concrete terms and not just in the written instrument, for
bringing civil society into line with the economic structure...” (Gramsci and Boothman (ed) . Antonio Gramsci.
Further Selections from the Prison Notebooks 1995:167)
(This article by M. Asadi has been edited to remove
names of governments etc.)
VOI Volume 02/2011
49
SFDTDLJGQT('UQK(DC(+DH?
PQMK=F=-QR
Recent gas exploration activity in the south east region of the Arabian desert
uncovered a skeletal remains of a human of phenomenal size. This region of the
Arabian Desert is called the Empty Quarter , or in Arabic, ‘Rab-Ul-Khalee’.
?
VOI: We need to be circumspect about such materials which
appear to contradict paleontological evidence. This material
has been surfacing from time to time over the last several
years. Wallahu ‘Alam Bissawab!
50
VOI Volume 02/2011
5*,+5(@$%*+0( 6$(*"-+5(.-! (
!',+5(P!"-+,)(6*.,' ,)(:",'1(
The Malay world boasts the only pyramids in S.E.Asia and the Candi Sukuh on Java island dates back to the early
15th century. Remove the capstone of the Egyptian pyramid and it becomes an observatory but it is even more than
that with the Meso-American Candi Sukuh.It actually encapsulates the earliest form of a power-house .
Behind the pretence of being a tomb, it symbolizes the power of the early Malays of Java
who designed the world’s largest Buddhist complex of the ancient world the Borobodur
even though some truths were hidden because those Javanese Malays often took on Chinese names. What is even more interesting about the Candi Sukuh is that it is Mayan in
/'2*$@(#-,8+49/(,&"(/'-!9'!-$(,&"(/6%$(6)('+$(/2%>6*/(-$3$9'('+$(06-*"(6)(,&(,&94$&'(H6!'+(
American sage whom mufassir Haji Ta’lim Ali surmises could have been a Nabi or Prophet
of God. We can only say possibly because we can only guess without clear Quranic support or even the ijma’
But go against the Sunatullah even God’s Law of Nature,
and a high civilization becomes extinct.
Pyramids which are known as awtad in the Quran lasts
long because the bricks as the Quran teaches us were
burnt in the furnace as Pharoah instructed the priest
magician Samiri to do but more clearly pyramids are a
mathematical enigma. Malays ? Mathematics? And why
not when the Chinese texts mention that East Sumatran
Malays were very adept in mathematics.
?4'+6!'(%,'+$%,'49/(/8$9479,**2(04'+6!'(X$-6(0$(06!*"(
not have computers perhaps the creature of earthly materials mentioned in the Quran the “dabbatul ard”. There
4/( 96%8$'4'46&( ,/( '6( 0+6( 7-/'( '+6!#+'( ,>6!'( '+$( X$-6(
and history comes up with the Sumerians, the Indians
and the Chinese. The Indians had the concept of sunya
6-(&6'+4&#&$//(,&"('+4/(0,/(,*/6(-$3$9'$"(6&(g+4&$/$(
drawing boards but they had no symbol . The Khymers
had a dot or bindu for zero but it was only the East Sumatrans on Banka Island in the 7th century who can lay
claim to inventing the zero as archeology has uncovered
(Smith: History of Mathematics.) 200 years later the Hindus passed this symbol on to the Arabs at Gwalior, India
VOI Volume 02/2011
51
matra. Indeed orientalist Mubin Shephard would have
us believe that King Solomon’s Ophir is the same as
Gunong Ledang also known as Mount Ophir where
remnants of ancient gold mines have been found allegedly under the aegis of a Balkis-like Puteri Gunong
Ledang . Of course talking about beautiful women , we
remember the perfumes extracted from camphor which
the Indians bought from the Malays who called it kapor
barus and the Indians quickly called it kapoorum. Today
homeopaths would use camphor for a variety of medical
uses including the generating of heat within the body in
winter which the British herbalists started with “camphorated oil”
But coming back to the contributions of the padi world
of the deutero-Malays , it is even plausible to note that
the word kafur for camphor in Surah Ar Rahman of the
Quran may have come from the Malay word just as iblis
in the Quran for the devil comes from the Greek diabolis.
This is the miracle ol the Quran , that using apparently
mundane words , it has transformed these words into a
vehicle for the transmutation of the human into insan.
And thus the insight from ALIF LAM MEEM mere words
becoming the lafz of Allah !
:$-+,8/(4'(0,/(%,'+$%,'49,*(,/'-6&6%2(0+49+($&,>*$"('+$(N,*,2/('6(>$('+$(7-/'(&,14#,'6-/(0+6(0$&'(,-6!&"('+$(
#*6>$5(U'(0,/(&6'(-$,**2('66("4)79!*'('6(>$*4$1$('+4/(/$$4&#('+,'(>6'+(I*)6&/6(A;(I*>!-T!$!(,&"(W$-"4&,&"(N,#$**,&(0+6(
made use of the orang laut to help them navigate the seas. Alas for world conquering Alfonso with his Arab amulet
that upon returning to Lisbon, he was roundly kicked into the sea by Panglima Awang himself.
S)(96!-/$('+$(96*6&4,*4/'/(06!*"(&6'(0,&'(,&(4&7"$*('6(#$'('+$(*,!-$*(,/('+$(7-/'(8$-/6&(0+6(/,4*$"(,-6!&"('+$(06-*"5
Whether it was Panglima Awang or not the fact is that the orang laut have the largest habitat including both oceania
and the Indian ocean as their training ground and getting to Australia with their Bugis brethren was not as challenging
as going further still, perhaps even beyond Africa. We have evidence that the South East kind of brown skinned tribe
still perplexing sociologists visiting the Kalahari Desert are indeed South East Asian.
Zainuddin bin Mohd Ismail.
Bibliography:
Back Issues of Journal of Moors Cultural Home,
Sri Lanka
The Encyclopaedia of Islam, Leiden
Singapore: The Encyclopaedia
We can with some research prove that the Sassanid Kings made use of these proto-Malay orang laut to police the
waterways of the Persian Gulf, even the seas of Basra . These orang laut also known as Javakas in Southern India
and Ceylon apparently worked with the Jats of Sind, India. Their word for boat namely sampan is still in vogue among
7/+$-%$&(4&(g$2*6&5(U'(4/(,(06-"(6)(H6!'+(g+4&$/$(6-4#4&(8-6>,>*2(M6CC4$&5(=+,'('+$2(06-C$"()6-(g+4&$/$(/+488$-/(4/(
beyond doubt and certainly for Admiral Cheng Ho (Zheng He) who passed by the Yong Le Man or Dragon Teeth Gate
(Batu Layar) off Singapore on the way to fabulous Malacca where he learned about the Menteri system which word
was brought back to China and became Mandarin . This was the speculation of Amartya Sen in “The Arguementative
Indian.” Of course the word is Sanskrit or Tamil in origin but the Chinese were captivated by Malaccan administration
not Goa where Zheng He may have been buried after going round the world in his oil-tanker type of ships.
The Batu Layar or Singapore Stone was dynamited in the 19th Century but fragments of it were sent to Calcutta and
facsimile of its 50 lines in ancient script show that it is not Pali or Sanskrit. What language is it written in ? Nabatean
the mother of languages?
Later with the rise of Islam in the 7th century the orang laut were reported to have worked for the Caliph Muawiya. By
then they were known by the Arabs and Persians by a different name Sayabidja.
The Malays traded their gold from what Ptolemy called the Golden Chersonese and another gold island namely Su-
52
VOI Volume 02/2011
+$>(.$-0$"'6,:(@!,.0'(*+(
6$(' "*+5(/*!+0- ,*+
The tribute and appreciation continues. On Saturday, 19th February 2011, Jamiyah
Nursing Home (Darul Syifaa) held a tribute to honour Executive Consultant, Haji Abu
Bakar Maidin for the tremendous contributions he has made to Jamiyah Singapore.
Mr Harawant Singh,Superintendent, Jamiyah Nursing Home rightly attributed the
success of the many developments of the Home as largely through Haji Abu Bakar’s
relentless efforts, which has materialized the vision of Jamiyah Singapore.
He acknowledged Haji Abu Bakar as a visionary who has devoted a large
portion of his life to providing care and attention to the underpriviledged in
Singapore, irrespective of their race, language or religion. He also remembers
the countless life-lessons he has learnt from his mentor, Haji Abu Bakar
Maidin, who was always transparent and fair in his dealings with everyone,
including his staff. As stated by Mr Harawant, the principles that Haji Abu
Bakar has laid down will certainly continue under the leadership of Jamiyah’s
current President, Haji Abdul Karim Maidin who will bring Jamiyah to even
greater heights.
Haji Abu Bakar Maidin, in his speech, stated that whatever he has done was
for the sake of the community and nation and not for any particular desire for
recognition. He emphasized that whatever his achievements, it was a result of
the help of not only Muslims but also people of other races and religions citing
the support from the Lee Foundation, the Singapore Buddhist Lodge, Kwan
Im Thong Hood Cho Temple and Business Houses whom he feels indebted
to for their support and goodwill in his many years in the organisation. He
is grateful to each and every one of them. Haji Abu Bakar emphasized that
Jamiyah Nursing Home is important as it serves the wider area of the oldaged and the sick, where the staff serves with patience and
tolerance. For that he acknowledges their contribution and
commended the staff of Darul Syifaa for carrying out their
duties, whether they are a local citizen or foreigner. “Each and
every one of you is important to the organisation and your
work will certainly be noticed and be recognized” was some
of the words he uttered, urging the staff to continue with their
good work and bring success to the organisation.
Haji Abu Bakar’s words and acknowledgements will certainly
spur the staff of Jamiyah Nursing Home to keep up with their
good work and continue working diligently and with integrity
together with the new President of Jamiyah Singapore, Haji
Abdul Karim Maidin, for the progress and betterment of
Jamiyah Nursing Home.
Residents entertaining the Guest-of-honour
Administrator Mr. Harawant Singh presenting memento to the GOH.
In the background is Encik Samion Ali of Jamiyah Transport Dept
VOI Volume 02/2011
01/2011
53
P!"-+!.6!0AP!"-+,)(5!,0-+)$B
Whoever kills a person unless it be (by highest court justice/ due process) for murder or for horrendous deeds in the land, it is as if he
has killed all humankind and whoever saves a person, it is as if he has saved all humankind.”
Quran Chapter 5:132
The horror of a death sentence underlines the fact that never is death sentence mandatory in Islam whether for apostasy, blasphemy,
treason, even murder. This is very clear from study of S.Rahman’s Punishment for Apostasy in Islam and his other books , essays on
Criminal Punishment in Islam. Such is sacredness of human life in the sight of God!
We recall from Ahadith that a Prophet was reprimanded for setting alight a company of ants . God sent down revelation to rebuke him
for killing ants, whatmore human beings?
“When they approached the valley of the ants, one ant said, “O you ants, go into your homes, lest you get crushed by Solomon and his
soldiers, without their ever being aware of you..”
Quran Chapter 27:18
What is more horrendous than modern warfare which blessed Prophet has clearly prohibited by his ban on:
!"#$%#&!'(%)&!*$+,#!"#$%&'()*+!%,#!#-&%,.!/&0)%!-*1!'%,#&!2&'3$
!4&)+,%#*)*+!5'*!2'67-%-*%$!.!8'6#*.!9,):1&#*.!#:1#&$.!-*9,'&)%#$
!;')$'*)*+!8-%#&!9,-**#:$!
!")<#&%)*+!8-%#&!9,-**#:$
!"#$%&'()*+!,'0$#$!'/!8'&$,)3!=>/!?::-,!1)1!*'%!$%'3!$'6#!3#'3:#!7(!0$)*+!'%,#&!3#'3:#.!9:')$%#&$.!9,0&9,#$.!$(*-+'+0#$.!-*1!!!!
mosques in all of which the name of God is plentifully extolled, would have been destroyed.”) Quran; Chap 22:39
Recommended Reading: Weeramantry :Islamic Jurisprudence, Marmaduke Pickthall: Cultural Side of Islam
54
VOI Volume 02/2011
)/01/23')3045632' 35789:
!"#$"%&$'(&)*+*++&,'
''''''''''-*.&"')!%&,*"')!.&+$
SETIAP tahun umat Islam menyambut meriah 12 Rabiul Awal – tarikh yang dikaitkan dengan Nabi Muhammad saw.
Pelbagai acara dianjurkan sempena hari tersebut dikenali dengan Maulidur Rasul.
Antaranya perarakan, majlis-majlis syarahan, bacaan Berzanji dan Dibai’, peraduan syarahan, sayembara menulis sejarah Nabi Muhammad, menjamu fakir miskin dan berbagai lagi.
Mereka yang menyokong dan menganjurkan sambutan itu beranggapan ia adalah bid’ah yang baik atau bid’ah hasanah, bertujuan mengagungkan baginda serta mencerminkan
kasih sayang kepada baginda. Mentelah ia tidak ada larangan;
khusus daripada Allah serta Rasul-Nya.
Sambutan Maulidur Rasul bukan isu kerana yang penting ialah bagaimana tata cara sebenar untuk membuktikan kasih sayang serta keagungan kita kepada Nabi Muhammad saw.
Mencintai Nabi Muhammad saw adalah satu prinsip agama yang penting serta mendasar kerana seseorang itu tidak dianggap beriman sehingga ia benar-benar mencintai Nabi
Muhammad saw melebihi dirinya sendiri, kaum kerabat dan harta-bendanya.
VOI Volume 02/2011
55
Firman Allah dalam Surah At Taubah ayat 24 bermaksud:
“Katakanlah (wahai Muhammad): jika bapa-bapa kamu, anak-anak kamu, saudara-saudara kamu, isteri-isteri kamu
(atau suami-suami) kamu, kaum keluarga kamu, harta benda yang kamu usahakan, perniagaan yang kamu bimbang
akan merosot dan rumah tempat tinggal yang kamu sukai (jika semua itu) menjadi perkara yang kamu cintai lebih
daripada Allah dan Rasul-Nya dan (dari) berjihad untuk agama-Nya, maka tunggulah sehingga Allah mendatangkan
keputusan-Nya (azab seksa-Nya); kerana Allah tidak akan memberi petunjuk kepada orang fasik (derhaka).
Rasulullah berhak meraih cinta umatnya kerana baginda adalah makhluk yang paling mulia di sisi Allah memiliki akhlak
yang luhur dan jalan yang lurus, mengasihi umatnya, memberi petunjuk kepada umatnya, menyelamatkan umatnya
dari neraka dan menjadi rahmat kepada seluruh alam. Mencintai Nabi Muhammad saw adalah kesan kesaksian kita
bahawa Muhammad itu utusan Allah yang menjadi sebahagian daripada kalimah syahadah.
Orang yang benar-benar mencintai Rasulullah saw memiliki ciri tertentu antaranya:
Mentauhidkan Allah. Hikmah utama diutus para rasul termasuk Nabi Muhammad saw adalah untuk
menyeru manusia kembali kepada tauhid yang murni dan menentang syirik.
Membela Nabi saw daripada serangan golongan
60*-@AB!C)*)!A)%-!6#:),-%!)*$%)%0$)!A#*-7)-*.!,0A06D
hukum Allah serta sunnah baginda sedang hebat
1)3#&:#A#,A-*!':#,!A#:'63'A!60*-@AB
Justeru, tanda kecintaan kita kepada Nabi Muhammad
saw ialah membantah hujah golongan itu dan membela
baginda dengan memberi penjelasan kepada seluruh
umat Islam terhadap isu batil yang dibangkitkan musuhmusuh Allah itu.
Demikian antara tanda-tanda yang membenarkan
hakikat sebenar mencinta Nabi Muhammad saw. Jelas
di sini bahawa mencintai Nabi saw bukan suatu perkara
yang datang hanya setahun sekali. Ia adalah suatu
proses berterusan dan sentiasa perlu diberi perhatian
setiap waktu dan ketika oleh seluruh umat Islam.
Firman Allah dalam surah An Nahl, ayat 36 bermaksud:
“Dan sesungguhnya Kami telah mengutus di kalangan tiap-tiap umat seorang rasul (agar menyeru mereka). Hendaklah
kamu menyembah Allah dan jauhi dari Taghut.”
Demi membuktilkan kasih sayang kita kepada Nabi Muhammad saw, hendaklah sekalian umat Islam menghindari
amalan syirik dan mengikhlaskan ibadah hanya kepada Allah. Mentauhidkan Allah adalah bukti paling kukuh kecintaan
kita kepada Nabi Muhammad saw.
Mempelajari al Quran, memahaminya, mengamalnya dan menyebarkan ajarannya. Antara tanda-tana
mencintai Rasulullah saw adalah dengan memanfaatkan al Quran yang menjadi mukjizatnya dalam segala
aspek kehidupan kita.
Ibnu Mas’ud berkata: Janganlah seseorang menanyakan untuk dirinya, kecuali al Quran. Apabila dia mencintai
al Quran, maka dia mencintai Allah dan Rasul-Nya. Demi merealisasikan erti mencintai al Quran hendaklah kita
mempelajari dan memahami isi kandungan dan beramal dengannya serta menyebarkan pengajaran kepada seluruh
umat manusia.
Mentaati Sunnah Nabi saw, merupakan satu lagi tanda jelas menggambarkan perasaan sayang kita kepada
Nabi Muhammad saw dengan mengerjakan sunnahnya, mengikuti perkataan dan perbuatannya, menjalankan
perintahnya dan menjauhi larangannya.
Firman Allah dalam surah al Ahzab ayat 21, bermaksud:
“Sesungguhnya pada diri Rasulullah itu terdapat contoh teladan yang baik bagi kamu, iaitu bagi orang yang sentiasa
mengharapkan (keredaan) Allah dan (balasan baik) hari akhirat serta dia pula menyebut dan mengingat Allah dengan
banyaknya (dalam masa susah dan senang)”.
Menyebarkan Sunnah Nabi saw. Mencintai Nabi saw bukan sekadar hanya taat kepada sunnah baginda, tetapi
hendaklah kita bersungguh-sungguh menyampaikan serta mengajarnya untuk menyambung tugasan baginda.
Andai tugas dakwah baginda tidak ada kesinambungan, pasti sunnahnya akan mati dengan digantikan amalan
yang bercanggah dengan syarak.
Sentiasa memuji dan mengingatinya. Mencintai Nabi Muhammad saw bermakna baginda sentiasa berada di
hati kita. Oleh itu, kita hendaklah memperbanyakkan membaca serta mempelajari sejarah hidup baginda serta
berusaha menjadikan perjalanan hidupnya sebagai cahaya penyuluh perjalanan kita.
Mencintai mereka yang dicintai Nabi saw. Antara tanda cinta kepada Nabi saw adalah mencintai mereka
yang dicinta baginda seperti para isterinya, ahli keluarga dan para sahabatnya serta seluruh umat Islam, yang
berpegang teguh kepada ajaran baginda.
Membenci orang yang dibenci Nabi saw. Hendaklah kita membenci serta menjauhkan diri daripada mereka
yang memusuhi Allah dan Rasul-Nya seperti golongan yang kufur kepada agama Allah dan mereka yang
bergelimang dengan perbuatan bertentangan dengan syarak.
Para ulama dan para pemimpin dunia mengakui
bahawa Nabi saw seorang pemimpin yang banyak
boleh diteladani sesiapa sahaja yang berhasrat hendak
mencontohinya. Baginda memang dikenali seorang
pemimpin umat yang tiada bandingannya.
Sementara kebaikan dan contoh-contoh yang boleh
umat teladani ialah baginda seorang ketua rumahtangga
yang tiada duanya; panglima perang yang mahir dengan
berbagai strategi kejayaan. Baginda juga seorang
pendakwah yang dikagumi dunia dan pendakwah
yang dihormati dunia, pemidato berkarisma di samping
seorang ayah yang tegas dan penyayang.
Rasulullah juga terkenal seorang suami yang adil dan
sentiasa mengamalkan sifat kasih sayang. Baginda
juga seorang guru yang pintar memahami hati dan para
sahabat dan para pengikutnya.
Sarjana bukan Muslim telah mengakui keunggulan
Rasulullah saw sebagai insan paling berpengaruh.
Dari buku cendekiawan Amerika Syarikat, Michael
Hart, bertajuk 100, dari tulisan para sarjana semasa
termasuk Karen Amstrong, Muhammad bin Abdullah
telah ditempatkan sebagai tokoh agung.
Rasulullah saw tidak sekadar meninggalkan dua
warisan besar yang menjadi pegangan umat Islam: al
Quran dan hadis, baginda bahkan mengajarkannya
kepada para sahabat yang kemudian menyampaikan
kepada generasi pelanjut hinggalah kepada para ulama
akhir zaman.
Dalam mengkaji dan menilai perjuangan baginda,
Rasulullah sebenarnya mengambil masa 23 tahun
sahaja untuk menyampaikan risalah Allah hingga
berjaya dengan megah mengibarkan bendera Islam ke
banyak negara.
56
VOI Volume 02/2011
VOI Volume 01/2011
02/2011
57
&);&(&.&%'$)+& '%$ <('+!)%!
=!(+*.&"'-&"%*&"'*"%*.'-!(-&>&$'.!>$&%&"
&);&(&.&%'$)+& '?$'%$ <('+!)%!@';&">' ! =*";&$')!.$%&('A@BBB'=!"?*?*.'
$)+& @' ! !(+*.&"'-&"%*&"'*"%*.' !"$">.&%.&"''-!(-&>&$'.!>$&%&"";&:'
?&.C&,@'=!"?$?$.&"'?&"'.! &);&(&.&%&"D
Masyarakat Islam di Timor Leste mempunyai 10 buah
rumah ibadah. Enam daripadanya bertaraf masjid
sementara bakinya berbentuk surau. Semuanya dibina
masyarakat Islam sendiri. Mereka juga mempunyai
dua buah wisma anak-anak yatim: Yayasan An
Nur dan Yayasan Yaqin. Kekeduanya dikendalikan
oleh Organisasi Islam yang juga bertindak sebagai
penghubung dengan pemerintah. Moto kegiatan
dakwah mereka yang berpegang kepada “Islam rahmat
untuk seluruh alam” diterima baik masyarakat umum..
Hubungan organisasi Islam Timor Leste dengan
pemerintahnya adalah baik. Justeru mereka dibenarkan
berdakwah dengan bebas “asalkan tidak melanggar
peraturan-peraturan negara.” Malah agama Islam dan
dua agama lain Protestan dan Katolik merupakan tiga
agama yang diakui pemerintah. Para pemimpin ketigatiga agama itu bermusyawarah setiap enam bulan demi
meningkatkan kerjasama dan saling bantu-membantu
dalam hal-hal yang diperlukan.
R to L: Mr Ipolito Soaves, Mr Syamsul Bahri Ribeiro
Demikian ditegaskan oleh dua pemimpin Organisasi Islam negeri itu, yang mengunjungi Pusat Islam Jamiyah barubaru ini. Mereka ialah Encik Ipolito Soares, Presiden, lulusan Universiti Islam Antarabangsa Malaysia dan Encik
Syamsul Bahri Ribeiro, lulusan fakulti Undang-undang Universiti Islam Negeri Syarif Hidayatullah, Jakarta.Menurut
mereka kegiatan-kegiatan pendidikan, dakwah dan kebajikan yang dijalankan di sana boleh dikatakan serba
kekurangan. Justeru dua pegawai organisasi itu, berusaha menemui beberapa buah badan Islam dan masjid di sini
untuk mendapatkan bantuan dan sokongan.
Negeri itu kaya dengan hasil minyak dan gas. Sementara
pekerjaan masyarakat umum di negeri bekas tanah
jajahan Portugis itu adalah sebagai nelayan dan petani.
Negeri itu 20 gaanda besarnya dari Singapura. Indonesia
telah menjajah negeri itu selama 24 tahun sejak 1975. Ia
memperoleh kemerdekaannya pada tahun 2002 setelah
memenangi pungutan suara 1999 yang disokong
Bangsa-bangsa Bersatu. – Sulaiman Jeem.
“Kami gembira dan berterima kasih kerana badan-badan yang kami temui itu telah menyambut baik rayuan kami,
malah ada yang telah memberikan bantuan mereka secara sepontan”.
Antara bahan-bahan yang telah didermakan itu ialah komputer, buku-buku, kewangan, pakaian dan lain-lainnya.
Para pemimpin organisasi yang telah mereka temui itu hujung minggu lalu ialah Darul Arqam, Muhammadiyah, Masjid
Al Amin dan Masjid Darul Ghufran.
Mereka juga gembira kerana Kerajaan Arab Saudi, Kuwait dan Malaysia memberikan bantuan dengan menawarkan
biasiwa kepada para pelajar Timor Leste yang belajar di negeri-negeri tersebut. Kekedua pemimpin itu juga gembira
kerana dapat berkenalan dengan para pemimpin organisasi dan masjid-masjid itu serta mempelajari bagaimana
mereka menganjurkan berbagai kegiatan. Mereka juga telah mengundang wakil-wakil organisasi dan masjid-masjid
tersebut supaya melawat negeri mereka “untuk mengetahui sendiri keadaan sebenar masyarakatnya yang serba
kekurangan dalam berbagai kegiatannya”.. Sementara itu, untuk mengunjungi negeri itu, menurut mereka, kini
terdapat tiga penerbangan langsung dari Singapura ke Timor Laste setiap minggu.
58
VOI Volume 01/2011
02/2011
Bistari Brunei Jalin
Kerjasama
Sebahagian dari para anggota rombongan Koperasi Bistari bergambar bersama sebahagian dari jawatankuasa Jabatan Wanita Jamiyah.
BISTARI telah mengunjungi
Jamiyah untuk menjalin kerjasama
dengan Jamiyah, khususnya dalam
usahanya hendak membina Rumah
Jagaan Siang Hari.
Koprasi Bistari - cabang perniagaan Badan Kebajikan
Para Isteri Pegawai-pegawai, Para Pegawai dan
Kakitangan Wanita Kerajaan Negara Brunei Darussalam
– merancang penubuhan rumah tersebut untuk kanakkanak, khususnya untuk anak-anak para anggotanya.
Datin Hajah Masnah Binti Haji Tuah, Pengerusi
Bistari menyatakan demikian ketika berucap di majlis
mengalu-alukan kunjungan rombongannya seramai 10
anggota di Pusat Islam Jamiyah baru-baru ini.
VOI Volume 02/2011
59
Sebelum ini, Bistari telah melaksanakan berbagai aktiviti memajukan kebajikan untuk para anggota, menganjurkan
malam amal, ceramah-ceramah agama, bazar yang sebahagian dari hasilnya disumbangkan kepada badan-badan
yang memerlukan. Kini telah sampai masanya Bistari meluaskan kegiatannya dengan menubuhkan Pusat Jagaan
Siang Hari “kerana terdapat ramai warga emas dari para anggota kami dan masyarakat lain yang memerlukan
jagaan rapi demi meneruskan kehidupan mereka”. Justeru dengan mengunjungi Jamiyah dan PPIS – Persatuan
Pemudi Islam Singapura mereka dapat mengumpulkan berbagai bahan penting dan contoh-contoh menarik untuk
membina rumah itu, tambah Datin Hajah Masnah.
Malah peruntukan kewangan dan kawasan pusat Jagaan Siang Hari itu juga telah ditetapkan. Pembinaan pusat itu,
kini dirasakan lebih penting, menimbang sukar mendapatkan guru-guru yang berkebolehan dan sanggup menjaga
kanak-kanak.Beliau menghargai tawaran Jamiyah untuk menyiapkan Memorandam Persefahaman untuk membina
rumah tersebut. Bagaiamanapun beliau akan merujukkannya kepada jawatankuasanya untuk menimbangkannya.
Bistari sebuah badan bukan pemerintah. Ia telah ditubuhkan 27 tahun lalu. Ia juga merupakan salah sebuah dari 13
badan kerabat Majlis Wanita Brunei yang aktif. Terdapat sekitar 2,000 anggota dari 13 badan yang dinaungi Majlis
Wanita itu. Selain dari Bistari, antara badan-badan kerabat lain yang bernaung di bawah Majlis itu ialah: Bakti,
Siswazah, Polis, Tentera, Pertiwi, wanita dan lain-lainnya.
.
Datin Hajah Masnah Binti Haji Tuah (tengah) menyampaikan derma wang dan buku-buku penerbitan Bistari kepada Datin Hajah Zainab Khamis, Penasihat Jabatan Wanita
Jamiyah (dua dari kiri). Kiri Cik Faridah Saim Nordin, Setiausaha Jabatan tersebut, nombor dua dari kanan Datin Hajah Maimoonah Haji Omar (Timbalan Pengerusi Bistari)
dan kanan Datin Hajah Asmah binti Haji Abdul Rahman(anggota Jawatankuasa Bistari).
Ketua rombongan itu menjelaskan, antara objektif Bistari ialah:
- Mengembangkan potensi para anggota untuk meneroka dunia perniagaan.
- Memberi peluang kepada para anggota membina ilmu dalam pengurusan koperasi.
- Menanamkan semangat kerjasama demi amal.
- Menjalankan pelbagai aktiviti perusahaan dan perdagangan termasuk fungsi pengguna.
Koprasi Bistari mempunyai sebuah bangunan sendiri di atas sebidang tanah seluas 2 ekar. Kini ia disewakan
kepada sekolah swasta yang mengajar sekitar 1,300 pelajar. Mengunjungi negara-negara Asean dan di luarnya
juga merupakan antara objektif kegiatah-kegiatan Bistari dalam usahanya mengeratkan hubungan dan meluaskan
pandangan melalui perbincangan dan bertukar-tukar pandangan.
Derma sebanyak $2,000 dan beberapa penerbitannya telah disampaikan oleh pengerusinya itu kepada Datin Hajah
Zainab Khamis, Penasihat Jabatan Wanita Jamiyah. Para pemimpin Bistari dan anggota rombongan itu terdiri:
Datin Hajah Masnah Haji Tuah (Pengerusi dan ketua rombongan), Datin Hajah Maimoonah binti Haji Omar
(Timbalannya), Dayang Hajah Fatimah binti Haji Hassan (Setiausaha), Datin Hajah Khadijah binti Haji Akbar
(Penolongnya), Datin Hajah Aminah binti Ibrahm (Bendahari), Dayang Yong Pao Hoon (Yvonne- Penolongnya),
Datin Hajah Jauyah binti Mohd Daud (Setiausaha Perhubungan), Datin Hajah Siti Mariam binti Ahmad, Datin Hajah
Armah binti Haji Sulaiman dan Datin Hajah Asmah binti Haji Abdul Rahman (semuanya anggota). – Sulaiman Jeem.
60
VOI Volume 02/2011
.*$ ''%$ -&'=!">&+& &"'
?$'E& $;&,'
Kedua-dua ketua rombongan Kolej Universiti Islam Melaka (KUIM) Cik Faliza Erylina Rameli (kiri) dan Cik Siti Aisyah Yahya (kanan) gembira dapat kumpulkan banyak
bahan setelah menghabiskan enam hari bersama rombongannya melawat Jamiyah dan rumah-rumah kebajikannya.
LAWATAN selama 6 hari oleh seramai 16 pelajar
dari Kolej Universiti Islam Melaka di berbagai rumah
tumpangan dan kebajikan Jamiyah serta kelas-kelas
pendidikannya ialah untuk menimba pengalaman.
Lawatan itu juga sejajar dengan tujuan yang terkandung
dalam Memorandam Persefahaman yang telah JamiyahKUIM tandatangani November tahun lalu.
“Sepanjang masa lawatan itu berbagai pengalaman
telah dapat kami kumpulkan”, ujar Cik Faliza Erylina
Ramlli (pensyarah jurusan Kejururawatan) dan Siti
Aisyah Yahya (Pensyarah jurusan Psikologi).
Kekeduanya yang merupakan ketua bersama
rombongan KUIM, berkata: “Meskipun baru 14 tahun
KUIM ditubukan, namun ia telah melahairkan ramai
graduanya dalam berbagai jurusan. Ramai dari mereka
telah melanjutkan pelajran mereka di beberapa universiti
di Malaysia. Ada juga yang lain telah bertugas dengan
kerajaan dan swasta.
VOI Volume 02/2011
61
Cik Faliza lulusan Mahkota Kolej Melaka. Beliau telah bertugas di KUIM sejak empat tahun lalu. Sementara Cik Siti
lulusan Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysi dan telah bertugas di KUIM tiga tahun lalu. Menurut mereka terdapat seramai
30 pensyarah dari Malaysia dan Indonesia. Sementara Naib-Cencelornya Prof. Emeritus Datuk Wira Dr. Mohd Yusof.
Sejak ditubuhkan KUIM ditadbirkan oleh Kerajaan negeri Melaka. Kini ia telah diswastakan.
Sekitar 2,000 pelajar dari berbagai bangsa dari Malaysia dan dari luarnya melanjutkan pelajaran mereka di KUIM.
Antara fakulti yang diajar di dalamnya ialah Urusan Perniagaan, Sejarah, Agama, Psikologi dan Kejururawatan.
Kekedua pensyarah itu menyatakan demikian dalam pertemuannya dengan pegawai-pegawai Jamiyah di Pusat
Islamnya minggu lalu.
Rombongan KUIM telah menghabiskan masa mereka dengan melawat rumah tumpangan - Darul Ma’wa, Darul Syifaa,
Darul Islah dan Darul Takrim, kelas-kelas di Sekolah Perniagaan Jamiyah Tadika dan Pusat Jagaan Kanak-kanak.
“Amat banyak faedah dan pengalaman yang telah kami pelajari selama berada di sini. Kami amat menghargai
kerjasama dan layanan Jamiyah hingga matlamat kunjungan kami dapat dipenuhi dengan sebaik-baiknya”, ujar
mereka. “Sedapat mungkin berbagai pengalaman yang telah kami timba itu akan kami sebarkan kepada para pelajar
KUIM”, tambah Cik Siti Erylina. Antara tujuan yang telah ditandatangani oleh kekedua pihak itu ialah:
a) Kekedua pihak bersetuju mengadakan langkah-langkah perlu demi memajukan kerjasama dan meningkatkan
pengetahuan dan pembangunan intelektual serta untuk terus menggalakkan hubungan pendidikan dan pertukaran
sebagai berikut:
Encik Yunos Mohd Syarif, Setiausaha Agung Jamiyah (kanan berbaju hitam) memberi taklimat kepada para anggota rombongan
mengenai kegiatan-kegiatan Jamiyah.
i.
*
ii.
b)
c)
Untuk menggalakkan pertukaran para peajar, pakar-pakar dan para petugas pendidikan dalam
berbagai rancangan yang memberikan faedah kepada kekedua pihak.
KUIM akan menganjurkan berbagai seminar dan bengkel dalam bidang: Kewangan Islam, Kaunsling
dan Pengurusan perancangan.
JBS (Sekolah Pendidikan Jamiyah) akan menganjurkan bengkel-bengkel
Bahasa Inggeris dan Bahasa Arab, Kaunseling untuk belia yang berisiko dan latihan
para pelatih (untuk pendidikan belia).
Untuk menggalakkan para pelajar setiap institusi/negeri mempelajari institusi/negeri lain.
Untuk menggalakkan pembangunan berbagai rancangan dua hala bagi para pelajar antara institusiinstitusi pendidikan cemerlang di pendidikan tinggi yang akan memberi faedah kepada kekedua
pihak: Kegiatan-kegiatan luar, debat dan pertukaran budaya.
62
VOI Volume 02/2011
&*+$?*('(&)*+')&C
Beberapa hari yang lalu kita telah menyambut satu hari yang tidak kurang pentingnya dalam kalender Hijriah iaitu hari kelahiran baginda Muhammad S.A.W. Termaktub didada-dada kitab sirah, sejarah kelahiran Nabi junjungan, Muhammad S.A.W
yang mana telah dilahirkan pada hari Isnin 12 Rabiulawal Tahun Gajah bersamaan 22 April 571 Masihi (Riwayat Hadis Muslim). Tahun kelahiran baginda dinamakan Tahun Gajah disebabkan satu peristiwa yang termaktub didalam surah al-Fil:
“Tidakkah engkau mengetahui bagaimana Tuhanmu telah melakukan kepada angkatan tentera (yang dipimpin oleh pembawa) Gajah, (yang hendak meruntuhkan Kaabah)?
Bukankah Tuhanmu telah menjadikan rancangan jahat mereka dalam keadaan yang rugi dan memusnahkan mereka?
Dan Ia telah menghantarkan kepada mereka (rombongan) burung berpasuk-pasukan, Yang melontar mereka dengan batu-batu dari sejenis tanah yang dibakar keras, Lalu Ia menjadikan mereka hancur berkecai seperti daun-daun kayu yang dimakan ulat”
(Al-Quran: 105)
Allah SWT telah menerangkan dengan jelas didalam surah diatas peristiwa yang tidak pernah disaksikan oleh masyarakat Arab ketika itu. Mereka telah didatangi oleh askaraskar bergajah diketuai oleh Abrahah, gabenor Yaman, untuk menghancurkan Kaabah. Namun, Allah SWT telah memelihara kota Makkah dan menunjukkan kekuasaannya
dengan mengagalkan rancangan tentera bergajah tersebut hanya dengan menghujankan batu-batu panas dari neraka melalui burung Ababil. Tentera Abrahah yang terkena batubatu panas tersebut mati bergelimpangan dan diumpamakan seperti daun-daun kayu yang dimakan ulat.
Selain tahun yang sangat diingati penduduk Makkah, tanggal 12 Rabiulawal juga merupakan hari yang bersejarah. Ia adalah tanggal wafatnya nabi khatimul anbiya’, Nabi Muhammad SAW, iaitu pada tahun 11 hijrah, ketika baginda berusia 63 tahun. (Abu Hasan ‘Ali al-Husaini al-Nadawi, al-Sirah al-Nabawiyyah, dar ibn Kathir, Dimasyq, 2009, cet: 5,
hlm:539). Bahkan Diriwayatkan oleh Ibnu Abi Syaibah di dalam karyanya dengan sanad daripada Jabir dan Ibnu Abbas bahawasanya pada 12 Rabiulawal juga Baginda diangkat ke langit (mikraj) (Ibn Kathir, al-Sirah al-Nabawiyyah, dar al-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, cet:1, 2005, hlm: 35). Umat Islam secara umumnya menyambut perayaan dan hari-hari
bersejarah dalam Islam dengan berpuasa sesuai sunnah Nabi Muhammad SAW yang berpuasa pada hari tersebut. Abu Qatada al-Ansari meriwayatkan didalam Sahih Muslim,
kitab as-siyam (puasa), bahawa Rasulullah SAW apabila ditanya mengapa beliau berpuasa pada hari Isnin, baginda bersabda,”Itulah hari aku dilahirkan dan itulah juga hari aku
diangkat menjadi Rasul.”
Manakala bacaan selawat serta puji-pujian secara beramai-ramai keatas Nabi Muhammad SAW telah dianjurkan walaupun tidak khusus pada hari kelahiran beliau. Ia malah
!"#$%&!'(#)*%+!,#(*-#'%)#"#&%.! *#-%./"# 0%.!1#2#*&#'#% !"#$%1!343&#'%5""#$%678%)#"#&%.93#$%5":5$;#1%#<# %=>0
“Sesungguhnya Allah dan para Malaikat berselawat keatas Nabi, wahai orang-orang yang beriman! berselawatlah kamu dan
berilah salam keatasnya.”
(Al-Quran, Al-Ahzab:56).
Hari ini, kita melihat umat Islam secara kreatifnya telah mempelbagaikan sambutan Maulidur Rasul. Dalam konteks setempat, terdapat berbagai-bagai acara yang diadakan seperti syarahan agama, deklamasi sajak, bacaan Maulid Nabi, memberi makan fakir miskin dan lain-lain untuk menzahirkan kecintaan dan ingatan kita pada Nabi Muhammad SAW
.!3 #%&!&-!3$#"9.*%-!'2! #$9#'%+* #% !' #'2%+!-!3*1#)*#'%3#.9""9#$?%6!(#(#3%)!'2#'%43&#'%5""#$%678%)*)#"#&%.93#$%5"%@&3#'A
VOI Volume 02/2011
63
“Jika kamu mencintai Allah, ikutlah (dan cintai dan hormati) aku,
dan Allah akan mencintai kamu”
(Al-Quran, 3:31)
Manakala didalam sebuah hadith sahih yang diriwayatkan oleh Bukhari dan Muslim, Rasulullah SAW telah bersabda,”Tidak sempurna iman kamu
sehingga aku lebih dicintainya daripada anak, ibu bapa dan manusia seluruhnya.” Dalam sebuah hadith lain yang diriwayatkan oleh Bukhari, Rasulullah
SAW bersabda, “Tidak sempurna iman kamu sehingga aku kamu lebih cintai daripada diri kamu sendiri.”
Berdasarkan dalil-dalil diatas, ulama terdahulu telah mengharuskan pertemuan dengan objektif memperingati sejarah dan pengorbanan nabi Muhammad SAW. Pertemuan dengan niat mendapatkan mardhatillah ini juga bertujuan mendidik dan menghembuskan rohul Islam kepada setiap lapisan
masyarakat apatah lagi masyarakat Islam dinegara sekular ini. Oleh itu, dalam kita meraikan hari yang bermakna ini, pembaziran, pergaulan bebas dan
perkara-perkara yang bertentangan dengan ajaran suci Islam harus dielakkan.
Walaupun terdapat hujjah bahawa menyambut kelahiran Nabi Muhammad SAW adalah bidaah yang bertentangan dengan syariat namun para ulama
sepakat menyatakan bahawa sambutan hari kelahiran Nabi Muhammad SAW adalah bidaah hasanah kerana terdapat maslahah seperti pendapat Ibnu
Taimiyyah mengenai majlis zikir yang boleh didapati didalam kitab Majmu ‘at fatawa Ibnu Taimiyyah edisi King Khalid ibn ‘Abd al-Aziz. Ibnu Taimiyyah
telah ditanya mengenai pendapat beliau mengenai perbuatan berkumpul beramai-ramai untuk berzikir, membaca Al-Quran, berdoa sambil menanggalkan serban dan menangis sedangkan niat mereka bukanlah kerana riak ataupun menunjuk-nunjuk tetapi hanyalah kerana hendak mendekatkan diri
kepada Allah s.w.t. Adakah perbuatan-perbuatan ini boleh diterima? Beliau menjawab,”Segala puji hanya bagi Allah, perbuatan-perbuatan itu semuanya
adalah baik dan merupakan suruhan didalam Syari’ah (mustahab) untuk berkumpul dan membaca Al-Quran dan berzikir serta berdoa.”
Jesteru, marilah sama-sama kita berkumpul dan berselawat ke atasnya..Allahumma Solli ‘Ala Sayyidina Muhammad.
64
VOI Volume 02/2011
.$)&,')!E&(&,
=*"#&'.!)<
-<">&"'$-+$)
Sulaiman Jeem
.!)< -<">&"'$-+$)')*E*?'.!=&?&'"&-$'&?& '&)'%!(";&%&'%!+&,'
?$ *(.&$'&++&,')C%D'%!%&=$'$-+$)' !"!($ &'.*%*.&"'&++&,'$%*'?!">&"'
-!();&(&%:'$&'&.&"' !">><?&'&"&.F#*#*'&?& ' !+&.*.&"'.!E&,&%&"'
,$">>&'.!',&($'.$& &%D
Punca kesombongannya itu ialah kerana katanya ia
dicipta dari api. Sementara Adam dicipta dari tanah
yang katanya hina dan sentiasa dipijak-pijak.Apakah
yang dimaksudkan sujud itu? Siapakah iblis? Sujud
adalah suatu sikap yang merendah. Demikian pendapat
pengarang kitab “Tafsir Mahzari”. Manakala pendapat
Imam Raghib: sujud adalah menempatkan kepala di
bawah dengan segala kerendahan hati.
Sesuai dengan pendapat itu, al Quran menggunakan
kata-kata ini khusus untuk bersujud kepada pohonpohon dan batu-batu. Tetapi bukan demikian. Maksud
.9(9)% )*% .*'*% 19+#'"#$% -!'!&-# #'% 4.*+% )!'2#'%
meletakkan kepala di atas tanah.“Tidakkah engkau
perhatikan bahawa semua yang ada di langit dan
di bumi bersujud kepada Allah?.” – Demikian Allah
bertanya kepada Iblis dalam surah al Haj ayat 8.
Perintah ini diterima Bani Israil ketika memsuki gerbang
Palestin setelah mendapat kemenangan. Mereka
memasukinya sambil bersujud.Dua penafsir al Quran
terkenal, Ibnu Abbas dan Imam ar Razi, mengertikan;
“sujud” itu sama dengan merendahkan hati, menunduk,
merendahkan diri, ketabahan dan kesabaran.
“Sujud” dalam al Quran pernah digunakan dengan
erti “Tasbih”. Kedua-duanya adalah benda hidup dan
benda mati.“Apa sahaja yang ada di langit dan di bumi
bertasbih kepada-Nya.” Jelas Allah dalam surah al
Jumu’ah ayat 44.
Tasbih juga bukan bererti ucapan dalam bentuk seperti
yang telah dilakukan manusia. Menurut maksud tasbih
itu ialah: Menyucikan Allah. Memuliakan kesucian-Nya
melalui perkataan-perkataan yang penuh khusyuk dan
tawaduk, dengan tunduk kepada Yang Maha Kuasa.
Para sarjana yakin dengan pendapat ini. Yakni para
malaikat bersujud kepada Adam bukanlah seperti yang
dilakukan manusia kepada Allah swt di dalam solat.
VOI Volume 02/2011
65
Mereka hanya diperintahkan tunduk di hadapan
5)#&?% 8! #-*% )*&#+.9)+#'% .9(9)% .!B#3#% 4.*+% )!'2#'%
meletakkan kepala dan tangannya di atas tanah.
Terdapat sarjana yang berpendapat bahawa: sujud
*'*% &!39-#+#'% .9(9)% .!B#3#% 4.*+?% C!"#.'<#0% *#% $#'<#%
berbeza caranya sahaja, iaitu sujud kerana segan yang
sudah dibolehkan oleh syariat terdahulu sejak Yaakub
dan anaknya memasuki Mesir untuk menemui Yusuf.
Hal ini terdapat dalam al Quran bermaksud “Mereka
merendahkan diri untuk bersujud di depan Yusuf.”
Para penafsir memberikan gambaran bahawa yang
dimaksudkan dengan “Sujud” di sini ialah “sujud kerana
segan”. Suatu tindakan yang telah diperkanankan
syariat terdahulu. Tetapi untuk ini kita harus mengikuti
syariat yang ada sekarang. Perintah syaraiat terdahulu
telah terhapus.Dalam kitab hadis Termizi dan Abu Daud,
terdapat sebuah hadis yang menggambarkan tentang
sujud dan contoh yang hampir sama dicantumkan di
dalam Bab Nikah.
Pandangan dari beberapa penafsir al Quran lain
menyatakan meskipun para malaikat itu bersujud
kepada Adam, namun mereka secara langsung bersujud
kepada Allah swt, sumber segala perintah. Adam hanya
seperti kiblat atau Kaabah. Ertinya solat tidak ditujukan
kepada Kaabah tetapi kepada yang menjadikan Kaabah
itu.
Melalui contoh-contoh yang para mufassir huraikan
itu, membuktikan bahawa perintah Allah kepada para
malaikat bersujud bukanlah untuk memberikan gelaran
atau darjat ketuhanan kepada Adam menjadikannya
suatu benda yang disembah.
Dalam hal ini pandangan malaikat kepada Adam tidaklah
lebih daripada pandangan orang terhadap Kaabah di
dalam solat. Martabat yang tinggi ini meliputi kawalan
manusia terhadap alam. Ia menduga bahawa kalau ia
menjadi tuan terhadap yang ada di dalam alam ini, di
langit dan di bumi ini, kelakuan dan gerak-gerinya akan
dibimbing oleh Allah swt.
Adapun perintah Allah kepada mereka untuk bersujud
di hadapan Adam as adalah semata-mata kerana
keunggulannya. Malaikat selalu bersama manusia.
Apakah Adam memenuhi kekhalifahannya atau tidak.
Apakah ia menggunakan kekuasaannya secara adil atau
ia melanggar batasan sebagai wakil Tuhan di bumi?
Mereka mengawasi manusia, di samping Allah sendiri
mengawasi dengan rahmat dan hidayah-Nya.Al Quran
menjelaskan mengenai bantahan Iblis terhadap perintah
Allah: “Maka bersujudlah mereka (para malaikat) kecuali
Iblis; ia enggan dan takbur ia adalah termasuk golongan
<#'2%+#43?D%E%5"%F#G#3#$A%HI?
Ayat ini menunjukkan bahawa para malaikat sahajalah
yang diperintahkan sujud kepada Adam.Abu Jaafar
Tabari berpendapat bahawa Iblis adalah terputusnya
upaya untuk memperbaiki diri dari dosa dan noda
serta dukacita dalam dirinya sendiri. Al Quran dalam
beberapa ayat menggunakan kata-kata ‘syaitan’ untuk
Iblis. Syaitan bererti lepas, tergelincir ketika Iblis itu
terlepas dari rahmat Allah, ia disebut dengan nama As
Syaitan.Beberapa ulama berpendapat kalimah itu dalam
1!' 9+% J4K"#'K% E% )9#% -!3+# ##'?% 5.#"% +# #'<#% J.<#*D%
bererti ‘membakar dan mematikan’. Pada saat Iblis itu
terbakar dengan bara api kecemburuan di dalam dunia
dan diberikan waktu yang panjang untuk melakukannya
disebutlah ia dengan ‘syaitan’.
Perbezaan antara dua penggunaan kata-kata ini adalah:
Iblis bererti syaitan yang tinggi. Sedangkan syaitan
termasuk orang-orang yang berada di antara manusia
dan jin yang bersikap angkuh dan sombong menentang
perintah Allah.Dalam ayat 112 surah al An’aam, Allah
menghuraikannya bermaksud: “Dan demikianlah kami
jadikan bagi tiap-tiap nabi itu musuh, iaitu syaitansyaitan (dari jenis) jin, sebahagian mereka membisikkan
kepada sebahagian yang lain perkataan-perkataan yang
indah-indah untuk menipu manusia agar tidak beriman
kepada Nabi…”
‘‘Manusia
merupakan
makhluk yang
serba sempurna
kemampuannya. Ia
laksana penguasa
di atas bumi ini.
Bersamanya disertai
malaikat untuk
membantunya
di dalam segala
urusan.Rasulullah
pernah bersabda
bahawa Allah swt
telah mengatur
para malaikat itu
sesuai dengan tugas
masing-masing.’’
Manusia merupakan makhluk yang serba sempurna
kemampuannya. Ia laksana penguasa di atas bumi
ini. Bersamanya disertai malaikat untuk membantunya
di dalam segala urusan.Rasulullah pernah bersabda
bahawa Allah swt telah mengatur para malaikat itu
sesuai dengan tugas masing-masing.
66
VOIVolume
Volume01/2011
02/2011
VOI
Al Muzaffar Pencetus
Sambutan Maulid
UMAT Islam memasuki bulan Maulud Rasul saw. Bulan keputeraan baginda
junjungan Nabi Muhammad rahmatan lil alamin.
Namun harta yang banyak dikeluarkan itu bukan untuk
para pegawai kerajaan atau para penghibur ternama
atau sebaliknya seperti yang lazim dilakukan orangorang kaya ketika itu. Di sela-sela menikmati hidangan
lazat, beliau tiba-tiba menghentikan suapannya, lalu
berkata kepada pembantunya supaya hidanganhidangan itu dikirimkan kepada beberapa ulama yang
dikenalinya.
Demikian juga ketika beliau sedang mengenakan
pakaian yang dianggap baik. Pakaian itu segera
ditanggalkan dan diberikan kepada orang-orang saleh
dan fakir miskin yang memerlukannya.
Malik al Muzaffar menyedekahkan hartanya tanpa
berkira-kira. Semua golongan masyarakat dihulurkan
sedekahnya dari masa ke masa. Termasuk para ulama
dan masyarakat marhain.
Lazimnya sepanjang bulan ini – Rabiulawal hingga Jamadil akhir - berbagai acara menyambut kelahiran Rasul
saw diadakan. Dari peringkat pemerintah hinggalah berbagai organisasi dan para individu perayaan-perayaan itu
dianjurkan.
Setiap hari beliau menyediakan sekian banyak roti untuk
dibahagi-bahagikan kepada fakir miskin di dalam dan
di luar kota. Malah beliau terkadang berdiri di tengahtengah pasar dengan membawa berguni-guni roti
untuk diagih-agihkan. Kadangkala beliau mengunjungi
dari rumah ke rumah untuk memastikan setiap rakyat
mendapatkan makanan harian yang sewajarnya.
Bagaimana sambutan itu bermula? Siapakah pencetusnya? Mengapa sambutan itu dilakukan?
Untuk mengetahuinya ikutilah kisah ini.
Bagi Malik Al Muzaffar, setiap manusia bernyawa yang hidup di muka bumi ini, tidak kira semiskin mana mereka, wajib
mendapakan makanan asas untuk mengisi perut dan demi kelangsungan hidup.
Makanan asas seperti roti, gandum dan nasi layak mereka dapat secara percuma. Sama halnya seperti merek perlu
menghirup oksijen secara percuma tanpa sebarang bayaran kepada Allah.
Pendirian seperti ini sebenarnya bukan merupakan cakap-cakap kosong seperti yang kerap diungkapkan para
politikus atau para pegawai kerajaan dalam upaya memujuk hati rakyat. Ia sesungguhnya berdasarkan dari kebiasaan
atau amalan Muzaffar nenyedekahkan hartanya kepada masyarakat miskin.
Selain membantu fakir miskin, beliau juga berupaya memenuhi keperluan asas lainnya kepada masyarakat di
sekitarannya. Pendeknya masanya lebih banyak dihabiskan untuk bersedekah dan berkorban demi masyarakat yang
memerlukan.
VOI Volume 02/2011
67
Tidak dapat diragukan bahawa setiap rakyat di kota
Mosul dan di sekitarnya menikmati makanan roti hasil
kemurahan hatinya. Malah mereka tidak sedikitpun
dipersukar untuk mendapatkannya.
“Andai manusia boleh menghirup udara sepuas-puasnya
tanpa bayaran setiap hari, maka mengapa mereka harus
dipersukar untuk mendapatkan bahan makanan itu?”
Demikian perinsip keyakinan hidup Muzaffar.
Beliau juga begitu bersimpati kepada para ulama. Mereka
mendapat perhatian khusus dan berat daripadanya.
Dengan perhatian itu beliau membantu para pendakwah
atau muballigh yang memerlukan. Justeru beliau sering
menghadiri kelas-kelas pengajian ilmu dan gembira
menerima berbagai nasihat para ulamanya.
kepada mereka yang memerlukan.
Pentas itu juga merupakan wadah pertemuan para
pedagang dan para pengusaha dari berbagai negeri
melalui pameran besar-besarannya.
Perayaan itu dimulakan pada malam Maulid dengan
menyemblih banyak ternakan seperti unta, lembu
dan kambing, Dagingnya kemudian dimasak dan
dihidangkan dalam acara-acara tersebut.
Seluruh yang hadir gembira menikmati hidangan yang
disediakan. Di samping itu mereka sukacita mendapat
hadiah dan gembira mendengar bacaan sirah Nabi
Muhammad saw.
Malik al Muzaffar seorang pesara tentera. Dalam masa
perang beliau menjawat jawatan komandan “elite”
Sultan Salahuddin al Ayubbi. Beliau pernah dilantik
sebagai gabenor di kota kelahirannya bernama Arbil,
suatu wilayah dekat Mosul, Iraq.
Makam Rasulullah di masjid Nabawi
Demikian gambaran kedermawanan Al Malik Muzaffar
yang dikenali rakyat di seluruh pelosok negerinya.
Tidak hairanlah apabila setiap kali pulang dari pejabat,
di depan pintu rumahnya telah menunggu ramai fakir
miskin. Melihat itu beliau tidak pernah menghampakan
hati mereka tanpa sebarang pertanyaan.
Keperihatinannya kepada para pesakit juga begitu besar.
Lebih-lebih lagi para pesakit warga emas dan yang sukar
sembuh. Justeru sebuah hospital untuk mereka dibina.
Selain berbagai pakar perubatan disediakan, para ulama
juga dihantar ke hospital itu demi memberikan santapan
rohani kepada para pesakit itu.
Dari masa ke masa para pesakit itu dikunjungi dengan
menyamar sebagai orang biasa. Tujuannya untuk
mengetahui perkembangan kesihatan mereka dan untuk
megetahui mereka mendapat rawatan yang diperlukan.
F!"*#9%(92#%&!"#)!'*%.!-!'9$'<#%-#3#%&9.#43%4%.#1*"*""#$%
– para pengembara ke jalan Allah - yang mengunjungi
kotanya dari masa ke masa. Sebuah bangunan
penginapan khusus untuk mereka juga dibina. Setiap
&9.#43%)*1!'#3+#'%&!'2*'#-%)*%39&#$%* 9%.!"#&#% *2#%
hari dengan percuma, termasuk menanggung makan
dan minum mereka.
Sebuah sekolah untuk pendidikan percuma juga dibina.
Ia dibahagikan kepada dua bahagian. Sebahagian
9' 9+%-#3#%-!"#(#3%1!3&#;$#1%6<#4*%)#'%.!1#$#2*#'%"#*'%
9' 9+%-#3#%-!"#(#3%1!3&#;$#1%L#'#4?%M#3#%-!')*)*+'<#%
pula merupakan tenaga para pengajar pilihan yang
mendapat gaji mencukupi.
Biasiswa untuk para pelajar dan kemudahan
pembelajaran seperti perpustakaan juga disediakan.
N9#%19#$%.!+/"#$%+$9.9.%9' 9+%+#"#'2#'%.94%(92#% *)#+%
dilupakan.
Pendeknya berbagai bantuan dan kebajikan untuk
meningkatkan kemajuan rakyat dan negaranya
diusahakan. Termasuk usahanya untuk membantu para
pelajarnya di luar negara dan kemudahan-kemudahan
untuk para jemaah haji di tanah suci Makkah.
Dari semua kebaikan yang diusahakan itu, peringatan
Maulid Nabi saw yang diterokai selama hidupnya
dipercayai menjadi salah satu sumbangan yang tidak
lekang sepanjang masa.
Selesai perang, Al Muzaffar menjalani hidup penuh
sejahtera dan adil serta mengamalkan amalan-amalan
sosial yang tinggi. Sementara ayahnya seorang Turki
berjiwa satria yang mendapat jolokan Kujuk (bahasa
Arabnya Khusyu’) bahasa Turkinya bererti kecil dan
bertubuh pendek. Namun beliau sangat kuat imannya
serta memiliki jiwa kepahlawanan yang amat kental.
Muzaffar menggantikan ayahnya, ketika usia ayahnya
mencecah 100 tahun setelah berjaya menguasai kota
Arbil.
Muzaffar mengagumi kepahlawanan dan menyokong
perjuangan Salahuddin al Ayubbi. Malah mereka
berdua sering berjuang bersama di medan juang demi
menegakkan Islam.
Di medan perang Hittin, Muzaffar bersama pejuang
Salahuddin al Ayubi, tetap bertahan di saat para pejuang
dan ramai pahlawan lari. – Sulaiman Jeem.
Perayaan Maulid yang dianjurkannya itu ialah dengan
membina sebuah pentas amal. Ia tidak lebih dari
memberikan hiburan dan bantuan makanan dan pakaian
68
VOI Volume
Volume 01/2011
02/2011
VOI
G$.&%&"'-&?&"'& &+'$)+& '
C$+&;&,'=!()!.*%*&"H'I$)$%)'
E& $;&,
They came from Malaysia, not
just for a visit but also to get an
understanding of how Jamiyah
Singapore operates effectively.
VOI Volume 02/2011
69
The delegation from Kuala Lumpur consisting of 19
Non-Governmental Organisations (NGO), civil society
group ‘Ikatan Badan Amal Islam Wilayah Persekutuan’
consisting of about 40 delegates visited Jamiyah
Singapore on 31 January 2011 to exchange ideas
and in the process learn more about how Jamiyah
Singapore manages its Human Resource, Finance and
Capital as well as fund management activities.
At the moment the group’s funding is derived from the
OP4B!%/P% $!%Q9P *%#.%,!""%#.%P9')3#*.*'2%#B *R* *!.%19 %
they hope to learn more about Jamiyah’s infrastructure
and fundraising activities from this visit.The group’s
main focus is helping families, women and children.
Head of the delegation, Hj. Ir Jamaludin bin Shamsudin
shared with Voice of Islam that they are an alliance
that hopes “it would not just be politicians who make
the decisions for the people but civil society too (who)
'!!)% /% *'S9!'B!% -/"*B*!.% -/.* *R!"<% P/3% $!% T&&#$0%
Community and nation”. Thus, he hopes that their
organization would be able to bring NGOs, Mosques
and other community groups there to a more systematic
and higher level of professionalism.
&E+$)'*+& &'J(< '$"?<"!)$&'
.!=*+&*&"F($&*'
Dr Haji Razali Yahya, Head, Jabatan Wilayah Kementrian Agama Daerah Kepulauan
Visitors from Majlis Ulama Indonesia,
Provinsi Kepulauan Riau,
came to Jamiyah Singapore recently. This
visit was a follow-up to submit a proposal to JBS on the train-the-trainer for English Language. The proposal
was to engage JBS’ English Lecturers to teach teachers in Batam for a period of at least 6 months. The visitors’
schedule included visits to Jamiyah HQ, Darul Ma’wa where the delegates had lunch and then to JBS. After a
discussion at JBS, the delegates went to Darul Shifa and Darul Islah. The delegation was headed by Dato’ Setia
Amanah Putera Negri H. Huzrin Hood, SH.
70
VOI Volume 02/2011
$28K8368L'&45'-3M3N' 38982''
-823''?3N57''$K73O'98K32P52Q
SETIAP perubahan bukan mudah dilakukan. Apa lagi kepada seseorang penagih atau bekasnya.
Hanya dengan kekuatan iman dan azam yang kuat, barulah perubahan itu boleh dilakukan dengan berjaya.
Justeru, Perunding Kanan Jamiyah, Haji Abu Bakar Maidin (dulu Presiden)
gembira dan memuji sikap ramai penghuni Rumah Pemulihan Sementara Jamiyah (Darul Islah) yang telah mengubah tabiat penagihan mereka.“Kini ramai dari
mereka telah lulus dan meraih sijil ITE dan telah bekerja di berbagai perusahaan. Ada juga yang telah bekerja di berbagai restoran”, tambahnya.
Perubahan diri mereka, menurutnya, hasil usaha Darul Islah, yang telah
menganjurkan kursus ITE dan Menyiapkan Pemakanan kepada para penghuni
rumah pemulihan sementara itu.
Menurutnya, hanya Darul Islah yang menganjurkan kursus-kursus itu kepada
para penghuninya. Tujuannya untuk memberikan bimbingan yang diperlukan
demi memudahkan mereka mendapatkan pekerjaan yang sesuai setelah keluar
dari rumah itu.Majlis Menghargai inisiatif Haji Abu Bakar Maidin, mewujudkan
umah itu di Pasir Panjang diadakan baru-baru ini. Ramai para undangan dan
bekas penghuni dan keluarga mereka menghadirinya. Beliau telah disambut
meriah dengan pukulan kompang dan pancak silat oleh warga Rumah Peralihan itu. Acara-acara nyanyian dan hiburan telah juga menyusul.
Dua bekas penghuni rumah itu telah diberikan penghargaan dan cenderahati
kerana kejayaan dalam kerjaya mereka:
Para pakar kesihatan, ustaz, guru, kaunselor
dan lain-lain seumpamanya hanya sebagai pembantu kepada seseorang penagih atau bekas
penagih bercita-cita melakukan sesuatu peruba,-*! ! 0*%0A! 1)&)*(-BE-:! )*)! 1)3#&A0-%A-*! ':#,! @&man Allah dalam surah Ar Ra’d ayat 11, bermaksud: “Sesungguhnya Allah tidak mengubah apa
yang ada pada sesuatu kaum, hinggalah kaum itu
sendiri mengubahnya”.
VOI Volume 02/2011
71
U %V'B*+%L9..#*'%1*'%8#13#'*%W'#&#%.#&#3#'X%Y! 9#%M!2#,#*%V+.!+9 *P%.!19#$%
syarikat.
U V'B*+%@&3#'%Y#.&#)*%W'#&#%.#&#3#'X%M!'/"/'2%M!'2939.%.!19#$%-!39.#haan.
Haji Abu Bakar juga telah menyampaikan sijil kelulusan ITE kepada sembilan
penghuni yang telah berjaya dalam ujiannya.Mereka ialah: Encik-encik Meor
Ahmad bin Meor Idris, Abdul Rahman bin Sutoh, Suhaimi bin Naib, Suhairi bin
69K!10%51)9"%Z#$&#'%1*'%[$#;#"*0%5 &#3*%1*'%N#.9+*0%Q/$)%Z#4%1*'%51)9"%
Karim, Maizan bin Rohani dan Mohd Azlan bin Haniba.
Perunding Kanan Jamiyah itu mengucapkan tahniah kepada mereka yang telah
lulus itu. Beliau mengharapkan mereka akan mendapat pekerjaan yang sesuai
setelah keluar dari rumah pemulihan itu.Kepada mereka yang masih belum
membuat perubahan, Haji Abu Bakar Maidin, menasihatkan mereka supaya
“segera kembali ke pangkal jalan”.
“Ini kerana tabiat menagih seseorang tidak sahaja memburuk dan memalukan diri sendiri, malah ibu bapa dan keluarga mereka selain menjadi hamba yang tidak
mematuhi perintah Allah dan Rasul-Nya,” tambahnya.
Sebagai penghargaan atas jasa baktinya, majlis telah menghadiahkan tanjak dan keris kepada Haji Abu Bakar Maidin. Sementara kepada isterinya, Hajah Zainab
Khamis, dihadiahkan selendang khas sempena menyambut ulangtahun perkahwinan mereka yang 58.
Sementara itu, dalam ucapan ringkasnya sebagai Naib Pengerusinya, Haji Jaafar Majori, menyatakan, Rumah itu telah mendidik ramai bekas para penagihnya
“menjadi manusia berguna dengan memberikan berbagai pelajaran dan bimbingan”.
Sejak dirasmikan pembukaannya pada 17 Ogos 1996 oleh Prof. Ho Peng Kee, Menteri Negara Kanan Kementerian Dalam Negeri, “Rumah ini juga telah banyak
berusaha menyatukan semula keluarga yang retak akibat gejala dadah”.Kini, tambahnya, seramai 63 penghuni sedang menjalani berbagai latihan dan kursus ITE,
Menyiapkan Pemakanan, Perkebunan dan kursus Pertukangan.
Mereka juga telah sering membantu berbagai kegiatan Jamiyah dan badan-badan lain. Antaranya majlis menyambut hari-hari kebesaran Islam seperti Maulud
Nabi, Tahun Baru Hijrah, Israk Mikraj, Nuzulul Quran dan lain-lainnya yang diadakan di berbagai stadium, di Pusat Islam Jamiyah dan di masjid-masjid.Sejak ditubuhkan, sekitar 300 penghuninya telah “keluar-masuk”. Ramai dari mereka telah mendapat pekerjaan yang sesuai dengan kebolehan mereka. Ada juga yang telah
menunaikan haji dan umrah serta telah diterima semula oleh keluarga mereka.
-Sulaiman Jeem.
72
VOI Volume 02/2011
VOI Volume 02/2011
73
74
VOI Volume 02/2011
*
*
*
*
*
*
!
-
!
!
!
!
!
!
*
*
*
!
1967
!
!
!
!
VOI Volume 01/2011
02/2011
75
__________________________________________________________________ _
THE IMPORTANCE OF
>!"%+!"!))'&"?'J<(>$I!"!))
It is part of the Mercy of Allah that you do deal
gently with them. Had you been severe or
harsh-hearted, they would have broken away
from about you: so pass over (their faults),
and ask for (Allah’s) forgiveness for them; and
consult them in affairs (of moment). Then,
when thou hast taken a decision, put thy trust
in Allah. For Allah loves those who put their
trust (in Him). 3:159
VOI Volume 01/2011
02/2011