Some thoughts on the news, religion and life in general
Archive for October, 2009
Operative theories of the Islamic Movement
Oct 30th
One of the problems the Islamic Movement is facing, especially in the West, is the rigidity and over-zealousness of some activists. They are trying to apply the exact carbon-copy methods, ways and tools, which were introduced by its founders for their particular context and realities.
The consequences of this is that the Movement loses its dynamic, pragmatism and the spirit upon which it was established and instituted. This approach may produce some immediate benefits, however in the long term productivity will be lost and its principles and values will be diluted by factors beyond its domain. More >
Superman and the Islamic Movement
Oct 29th
Around 10 years ago, I asked Dr Tariq Ramadan for help with an essay on Nietzsche, the German philosopher. I knew he was a lecturer in philosophy, so who better to help with one of the most difficult texts (political thought) for undergraduates?
Admired by his supporters, dismissed by his critics - I can confirm and declare that Tariq Ramadan is no Übermensch (superman).
Though undoubtedly a gifted intellectual who is fluent in many languages including Arabic, English, French and German – I have no idea whether he read Nietzsche in its original German. This isn’t yet another post on Tariq Ramadan, but bear with me. More >
Journey of a Lifetime
Oct 27th
The fifth pillar of Islam is making the pilgrimage to Makkah to perform the manasik (rites) of Hajj at their appointed times during the Islamic month of Dhul-Hijjah. During the Hajj Muslims, male or female, prince or pauper, implores their Lord to forgive their sins and mistakes, and beseech Him to answer and fulfil their dreams, hopes and ambitions.
Many people are preparing physically, mentally and emotionally to make this great journey. Some will be going for the very first time, while others will desire to see the glorious Ka’ba once more to connect with their Creator and Sustainer More >
The great debate: Abu Hanifa v Imam Baqir
Oct 26th
On his second visit to Madina Abu Hanifa met Imam Baqir, when he was introduced to Imam Baqir, the latter addressed him in the following words: “So it is you who contradicts the traditions of my grandfather on the basis of Qiyas”. Abu Hanifa said: “May Allah forbid, who dare contradict the Ahadith? After you sit down, Sayyidi, I shall explain my position.” More >
Muhammad: the counsellor
Oct 24th
It is well known among the scholars that the Prophet in his various capacities instituted and established certain norms, commands and prohibitions; some in his capacity as a Prophet, some in his capacity as a judge, some in his capacity as a political leader, etc.
Therefore, not all instructions, commands and prohibitions fall under the general genus of laws which are binding for all time, place and context. Imam al-Qarafi discusses this extensively and demonstrated the difference between the Prophet’s actions ‘as a conveyor of the divine message, a judge and a leader,’ (Tashri’ bil Tabligh). He suggested that each of these intents has a different implication in the law. More >
Racism in the name of Islam
Oct 23rd
Like many people I watched the recent BBC Panorama programme on racism, I was both shocked and appalled at the naked and violent racism that still exists in parts of the UK. Even more shocking is the racist language used by some Muslims when talking about the ‘Kuffar’. Muslims, most often the victims of racism, should really know better.
As the programme indicated, it was in response to comments by Trevor Phillips, head of Equality and Human Rights Commission, that race wasn’t an issue anymore in Britain. To be fair to him, he meant that in the ‘majority of cases’, and he further stated that British attitudes to race were far more advanced and tolerant than the other European countries. More >
