http://www.productivemuslim.com/21-productivemuslim-hobbies-part-1/
http://muslimmatters.org/2007/12/07/high-school-life-the-muslim-scene/
http://nihalkhan.blogspot.com/2010/03/why-dont-youth-listen-to-me.html
http://muslimmatters.org/2007/04/12/adultyouth-relations/
http://www.kalamullah.com/youth.html
http://www.muslimyouthmusings.com/
http://www.muslimyouthmedia.com/
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Welcome to University! (Young Muslims brochure)
So you've finally made it to the university of your choice! You've heard, seen and perhaps even been to all the cool 'disorientation' week activities and wild residence parties. You have introduced yourself to all of your floor mates in residence ('rez') and figured out all the 'hot-spots' on campus. You have checked out the new crowd and are looking forward to spending a 'lot' more time at school. And maybe, just maybe, you've found your way to your classes and paid a visit to your university bookstore!
If any of that sounds familiar, then you have had a taste of the 4-year all-fun-and-games experience known as university life!
Needless to say, that statement is completely false, and if you haven't already figured that out, then you soon will. The freedom of university life comes with great responsibilities. You are no longer under the guidance and supervision of your parents and family, neither in the security and comfort of your home, nor in the company of loved ones who are willing to cater to your needs. You are in a new environment where not only are you 'free' to do as you please without anyone giving you a second look, but in fact 'encouraged' to do all it takes to fit in with the crowd.
As a Muslim, you know better than that. The people you will meet do not have the same priorities as yourself. In fact, most of them are not sure 'what' their priorities are or if they have any to begin with. You will hear the word 'fun' a lot, which will be used to justify almost anything imaginable and sometimes beyond! You will face situations where all that is between you and the greatest Fitna (trial & tribulations) is your Muslim identity, self-dignity and conscience.
Dear brothers and sisters, be on guard and know yourself. Think about why you are at university, for whom are you putting yourself through this, and what do you hope to achieve in the end? As in life, you must be absolutely sure of your 'purpose' and 'direction', or you will lose yourself in the crowd. Know that you are a Muslim, know that you are His servant, know that you are His Khalifah (vicegerent), and know that you are accountable to Him first and foremost. And what greater sense of purpose than to know that your goal is Allah (swt)! But if you are going to university only to have fun, then know that there are far less expensive ways of doing so.
Keeping that in mind, we have provided some tips to make your life at university a more productive, beneficial, stress-free and ultimately more enjoyable LEARNING experience. If you properly utilise this important time of your life, you can harness the true potential of your university education, and insha-Allah leave university not only as a more knowledgeable student, but as a better (and pro-active) Muslim!
A Muslim university student's checklist
Find your university's Muslim Student Association (MSA) office: there you can…
1. locate the daily prayer space and prayer timings
2. weekly Juma prayer location (not necessarily the same as normal prayer room!)
3. meet and introduce yourself to other fellow Muslim students
4. find Islamic books, audio and video tapes
5. stay up-to-date on MSA events and announcements
6. find Muslims to share a room, apartment, or house with
7. come to relax between classes and read some Quran in peace!
Get to know other Muslims in your classes and on-campus:
1. how do you break the ice? "Assalamu Alaikum, are you taking this course?"
2. exchange personal information and contacts such as phone #, room #, e-mail
3. form study groups with other Muslims (you need someone you can depend on!)
4. seek their help in studies, especially from seniors
5. a few contacts made early on go a long way in your university life!
Attend the MSA orientation week activities:
1. to find your way around campus and the area around the university
2. to find Halal food places on and off-campus
3. to find Muslim brothers/sisters hang-outs
4. to find off-campus prayer spaces for weekends
5. to find Muslim residences in case of emergency
6. to make new friends (and get free food!), etc.
World Religions class students:
1. introduce yourself to the Professor
2. let them know you are attending and willing to help in providing Islamic literature, or any other info e.g. Islamic website addresses for other students' paper research, online Quran & Hadith resources
3. speak to them about having a speaker from a local Islamic Centre come and present Islam to the class (they will gladly agree!)
Find out the 'safe' and 'un-safe' places to be when on campus in after-hours:
1. find a good quiet study space for yourself (which you WILL need!)
e.g. at a library, or rez basement, which will also serve as your personal retreat from the hectic university life (sometimes even your room-mates make matter worse)
Keep in touch with family and friends back home:
1. they need to hear from you and know how you are doing
2. take time out no matter how busy at least once a week if you go home for weekends, or more often if you stay full-time on campus (plus who knows when you may have to ask for more money!)
Attend Islamic events organized by your MSA:
1. weekly Halaqas, normally held on Friday evenings
2. good way to wind down the week
3. a great learning experience
4. access to a Shaikh (a.k.a. your personal councillor!)
5. strengthens your Iman and identity and prepares you for the next hectic week
6. participate and volunteer in 'Islam Awareness Week' activities
Organize timetable to not interfere with any prayers:
1. especially when you have choice in picking tutorials and lab sessions
2. leave yourself ample time to make Wudu especially before Juma
3. if you have a class at Juma time, find out who else is in similar situation and what do they do about it?
Advice to Muslim…
1. Sisters: it is especially important to find other good Muslim sisters to keep company because the gates of Fitna are not only wide open but you are a primary target for those who do not have your (Islamic) best interests in mind
2. Brothers: learn to lower your gaze (if you haven't already) or you will find yourself in all sorts of trouble. Enough said!
3. university life makes us very vulnerable as we are bombarded with every kind of 'alternative lifestyle' as acceptable and fun so know the difference
4. the code of modest conduct that is observed between Muslim brothers and sisters applies ten-fold to your conduct with non-Muslims!
When things go wrong:
1. do not underestimate the power of prayer and Dua*
2. in everything, seek Allah's help and seek His protection and strength
3. in times of distress, remember your goal and purpose, remember Allah (subhanahu wa taala), remember your relationship to Him (sometimes that is all you will have to motivate you!)
And finally…
1. don't make the university experience any harder than it already is by trying to wing it on your own. You can't!
2. we all need help and positive reinforcement, and advice from those who have gone through the same experiences
"You shall certainly be tried and tested in your wealth and properties and in your personal selves, and you shall certainly hear much that will grieve you from those who received the Scripture before you and from those who ascribe partners to Allah, but if you persevere patiently, and become Al-Muttaqun (the pious) then verily, that will be a determining factor in all affairs, and that is from the great matters, [which you must hold on with all your efforts]." (The Holy Quran 3:186)
*Dua for times of sorrow, anxiety or distress:
"O Allah! I am Your servant, son/daughter of Your servant, son/daughter of Your maidservant, my forelock is in Your hand, Your command over me is forever executed and Your decree over me is just. I ask You by every name belonging to You which You have named Yourself with, or revealed in Your Book, or You taught to any of Your creation, or You have preserved in the knowledge of the unseen with You, that You make the Quran the life of my heart and the light of my breast, and a departure for my sorrow, and a release for my anxiety."
If any of that sounds familiar, then you have had a taste of the 4-year all-fun-and-games experience known as university life!
Needless to say, that statement is completely false, and if you haven't already figured that out, then you soon will. The freedom of university life comes with great responsibilities. You are no longer under the guidance and supervision of your parents and family, neither in the security and comfort of your home, nor in the company of loved ones who are willing to cater to your needs. You are in a new environment where not only are you 'free' to do as you please without anyone giving you a second look, but in fact 'encouraged' to do all it takes to fit in with the crowd.
As a Muslim, you know better than that. The people you will meet do not have the same priorities as yourself. In fact, most of them are not sure 'what' their priorities are or if they have any to begin with. You will hear the word 'fun' a lot, which will be used to justify almost anything imaginable and sometimes beyond! You will face situations where all that is between you and the greatest Fitna (trial & tribulations) is your Muslim identity, self-dignity and conscience.
Dear brothers and sisters, be on guard and know yourself. Think about why you are at university, for whom are you putting yourself through this, and what do you hope to achieve in the end? As in life, you must be absolutely sure of your 'purpose' and 'direction', or you will lose yourself in the crowd. Know that you are a Muslim, know that you are His servant, know that you are His Khalifah (vicegerent), and know that you are accountable to Him first and foremost. And what greater sense of purpose than to know that your goal is Allah (swt)! But if you are going to university only to have fun, then know that there are far less expensive ways of doing so.
Keeping that in mind, we have provided some tips to make your life at university a more productive, beneficial, stress-free and ultimately more enjoyable LEARNING experience. If you properly utilise this important time of your life, you can harness the true potential of your university education, and insha-Allah leave university not only as a more knowledgeable student, but as a better (and pro-active) Muslim!
A Muslim university student's checklist
Find your university's Muslim Student Association (MSA) office: there you can…
1. locate the daily prayer space and prayer timings
2. weekly Juma prayer location (not necessarily the same as normal prayer room!)
3. meet and introduce yourself to other fellow Muslim students
4. find Islamic books, audio and video tapes
5. stay up-to-date on MSA events and announcements
6. find Muslims to share a room, apartment, or house with
7. come to relax between classes and read some Quran in peace!
Get to know other Muslims in your classes and on-campus:
1. how do you break the ice? "Assalamu Alaikum, are you taking this course?"
2. exchange personal information and contacts such as phone #, room #, e-mail
3. form study groups with other Muslims (you need someone you can depend on!)
4. seek their help in studies, especially from seniors
5. a few contacts made early on go a long way in your university life!
Attend the MSA orientation week activities:
1. to find your way around campus and the area around the university
2. to find Halal food places on and off-campus
3. to find Muslim brothers/sisters hang-outs
4. to find off-campus prayer spaces for weekends
5. to find Muslim residences in case of emergency
6. to make new friends (and get free food!), etc.
World Religions class students:
1. introduce yourself to the Professor
2. let them know you are attending and willing to help in providing Islamic literature, or any other info e.g. Islamic website addresses for other students' paper research, online Quran & Hadith resources
3. speak to them about having a speaker from a local Islamic Centre come and present Islam to the class (they will gladly agree!)
Find out the 'safe' and 'un-safe' places to be when on campus in after-hours:
1. find a good quiet study space for yourself (which you WILL need!)
e.g. at a library, or rez basement, which will also serve as your personal retreat from the hectic university life (sometimes even your room-mates make matter worse)
Keep in touch with family and friends back home:
1. they need to hear from you and know how you are doing
2. take time out no matter how busy at least once a week if you go home for weekends, or more often if you stay full-time on campus (plus who knows when you may have to ask for more money!)
Attend Islamic events organized by your MSA:
1. weekly Halaqas, normally held on Friday evenings
2. good way to wind down the week
3. a great learning experience
4. access to a Shaikh (a.k.a. your personal councillor!)
5. strengthens your Iman and identity and prepares you for the next hectic week
6. participate and volunteer in 'Islam Awareness Week' activities
Organize timetable to not interfere with any prayers:
1. especially when you have choice in picking tutorials and lab sessions
2. leave yourself ample time to make Wudu especially before Juma
3. if you have a class at Juma time, find out who else is in similar situation and what do they do about it?
Advice to Muslim…
1. Sisters: it is especially important to find other good Muslim sisters to keep company because the gates of Fitna are not only wide open but you are a primary target for those who do not have your (Islamic) best interests in mind
2. Brothers: learn to lower your gaze (if you haven't already) or you will find yourself in all sorts of trouble. Enough said!
3. university life makes us very vulnerable as we are bombarded with every kind of 'alternative lifestyle' as acceptable and fun so know the difference
4. the code of modest conduct that is observed between Muslim brothers and sisters applies ten-fold to your conduct with non-Muslims!
When things go wrong:
1. do not underestimate the power of prayer and Dua*
2. in everything, seek Allah's help and seek His protection and strength
3. in times of distress, remember your goal and purpose, remember Allah (subhanahu wa taala), remember your relationship to Him (sometimes that is all you will have to motivate you!)
And finally…
1. don't make the university experience any harder than it already is by trying to wing it on your own. You can't!
2. we all need help and positive reinforcement, and advice from those who have gone through the same experiences
"You shall certainly be tried and tested in your wealth and properties and in your personal selves, and you shall certainly hear much that will grieve you from those who received the Scripture before you and from those who ascribe partners to Allah, but if you persevere patiently, and become Al-Muttaqun (the pious) then verily, that will be a determining factor in all affairs, and that is from the great matters, [which you must hold on with all your efforts]." (The Holy Quran 3:186)
*Dua for times of sorrow, anxiety or distress:
"O Allah! I am Your servant, son/daughter of Your servant, son/daughter of Your maidservant, my forelock is in Your hand, Your command over me is forever executed and Your decree over me is just. I ask You by every name belonging to You which You have named Yourself with, or revealed in Your Book, or You taught to any of Your creation, or You have preserved in the knowledge of the unseen with You, that You make the Quran the life of my heart and the light of my breast, and a departure for my sorrow, and a release for my anxiety."
Monday, May 9, 2011
How You(th) Can Be a STAR! by Jawaad Ahmad Khan
When you look up at the night sky these days, in your own city, what do you see? For me, all I see are a bunch of gloomy clouds. MashaAllah it’s a beautiful picture, but tell me, do you see any STARs?
It seems that nowadays, all of our STARs have left us. They’re somewhere hidden and overshadowed by the flashing lights of this dunya. However, think back to the Prophet (S.A.W)’s time. He was in a desert, with no electric lights that were blinding. No need for them at all. All that was left after the Prophet (S.A.W) were the STARs.
STARs that shone so bright and lasted for so many years. They’d guide ships to discover new lands, and later on even had a study just for them (not necessarily astronomy).
The Sahabahs of that day were ordinary youths that gathered together and decided that they’d accept this message that the Prophet (S.A.W) brought: Islam. And although they were young, and weren’t very high people in society, they went on the front lines for Islam (even literally, check here about the Battle of Badr). They were the best generation.
Why were they the best, and how can you, as an average Muslim youth become like them?
Well, there were four areas that they all excelled in, and that’s what made them STARs. If you work on these areas, then you, too, will be able to work toward being like the best generation. STAR is an acronym, and represents four areas of your life that you can work on, they are:
Spirituality
Your relationship with Allah (SWT). This is otherwise known as your ‘Ibadah, or your worship. This area dares to ask the question, “Why are you a Muslim?” It taps into and builds the foundation of your identity. Simple things you can do to improve this are:
1. Try to pray all 5 of your daily Salah
2. Pray your Sunnah prayers as they guard your Fard prayers (if you’re lazy one day, you might neglect Sunnah rather than Fard)
3. Seek to learn the meaning of what you say in Salah
Try to learn about these areas of Islam:
1. Iman (and the six articles of it)
2. Aqeedah (the foundation of Islamic beliefs)
3. Shari’ah (the laws of the Qur’an interpreted by the ‘Ulama)
Training
This is also known as Tarbiyyah. It’s personal development. Basically, gaining knowledge and skills to apply that knowledge. With this, you begin to change and turn into a person that Allah is pleased with. Simple things you can do to improve this are:
1. Practice everyday Adab (manners & etiquettes) like using your right hand to eat, sleeping on the right side, etc.
2. Watching your speech, and trying to refrain from cursing or hurting others’ feelings.
3. Try to guard your eyes, ears, and limbs from seeing, hearing, or doing what is disliked and forbidden by Allah
Try to learn about these areas of Islam:
1. Tarbiyyah (Islamic training and character development)
2. Adab (manners & ettiquettes)
3. Sunnan (plural of Sunnah) that the Prophet did, such as entering a room with the right foot, “Alhamdulillah” after you sneeze, etc.
Activism
This is your relationship with the community. How are you benefiting everyone around you? This can encompass community service, and things that you do just for the sake of Allah. Simple things you can do to improve this are:
1. Look into and attend service projects already established (Project Downtown is a great one)
2. Take advantage of any clubs or groups (Muslim or non-Muslim) that benefit humanity.
3. Fulfill and surpass your 40-service-hour high school requirement (for U.S. students)
Try to learn about these areas of Islam:
1. Seerah, specifically stories of how the Prophet dealt with non-Muslims
Relationships
You have countless relationships that you must nurture, and cherish. There’s the relationship with your parents, siblings, friends, fellow Muslims, non-Muslims, neighbors, and even more. When you master how you act toward all these people, you’ve truly accomplished something great. Simple things you can do to improve this are:
1. Call up at least one friend a week, just to talk
2. Commit to one good deed a day, whether it be for your parents, your friend, or other family
3. Try to communicate and understand when dealing with others.
4. Hold your tongue and try your hardest to stay away from anger. At all costs.
5. Don’t jump to conclusions, or judge anyone.
Try to learn about these areas of Islam:
1. Seerah, the Prophet as a father, a neighbor, a Muslim brother, and every other role.
InshaAllah, if we realize that self-improvement and purification is encompassed in these four areas of your life, and we strive to improve them, the night sky will soon be brighter.
“Verily! We have adorned the near heaven with the stars (for beauty).” Surah Saffat 37:6
It’s time for us all to improve ourselves, and light up the night sky once again.
Source: http://www.muslimyouthmusings.com/how-youth-can-be-a-star/
It seems that nowadays, all of our STARs have left us. They’re somewhere hidden and overshadowed by the flashing lights of this dunya. However, think back to the Prophet (S.A.W)’s time. He was in a desert, with no electric lights that were blinding. No need for them at all. All that was left after the Prophet (S.A.W) were the STARs.
STARs that shone so bright and lasted for so many years. They’d guide ships to discover new lands, and later on even had a study just for them (not necessarily astronomy).
The Sahabahs of that day were ordinary youths that gathered together and decided that they’d accept this message that the Prophet (S.A.W) brought: Islam. And although they were young, and weren’t very high people in society, they went on the front lines for Islam (even literally, check here about the Battle of Badr). They were the best generation.
Why were they the best, and how can you, as an average Muslim youth become like them?
Well, there were four areas that they all excelled in, and that’s what made them STARs. If you work on these areas, then you, too, will be able to work toward being like the best generation. STAR is an acronym, and represents four areas of your life that you can work on, they are:
Spirituality
Your relationship with Allah (SWT). This is otherwise known as your ‘Ibadah, or your worship. This area dares to ask the question, “Why are you a Muslim?” It taps into and builds the foundation of your identity. Simple things you can do to improve this are:
1. Try to pray all 5 of your daily Salah
2. Pray your Sunnah prayers as they guard your Fard prayers (if you’re lazy one day, you might neglect Sunnah rather than Fard)
3. Seek to learn the meaning of what you say in Salah
Try to learn about these areas of Islam:
1. Iman (and the six articles of it)
2. Aqeedah (the foundation of Islamic beliefs)
3. Shari’ah (the laws of the Qur’an interpreted by the ‘Ulama)
Training
This is also known as Tarbiyyah. It’s personal development. Basically, gaining knowledge and skills to apply that knowledge. With this, you begin to change and turn into a person that Allah is pleased with. Simple things you can do to improve this are:
1. Practice everyday Adab (manners & etiquettes) like using your right hand to eat, sleeping on the right side, etc.
2. Watching your speech, and trying to refrain from cursing or hurting others’ feelings.
3. Try to guard your eyes, ears, and limbs from seeing, hearing, or doing what is disliked and forbidden by Allah
Try to learn about these areas of Islam:
1. Tarbiyyah (Islamic training and character development)
2. Adab (manners & ettiquettes)
3. Sunnan (plural of Sunnah) that the Prophet did, such as entering a room with the right foot, “Alhamdulillah” after you sneeze, etc.
Activism
This is your relationship with the community. How are you benefiting everyone around you? This can encompass community service, and things that you do just for the sake of Allah. Simple things you can do to improve this are:
1. Look into and attend service projects already established (Project Downtown is a great one)
2. Take advantage of any clubs or groups (Muslim or non-Muslim) that benefit humanity.
3. Fulfill and surpass your 40-service-hour high school requirement (for U.S. students)
Try to learn about these areas of Islam:
1. Seerah, specifically stories of how the Prophet dealt with non-Muslims
Relationships
You have countless relationships that you must nurture, and cherish. There’s the relationship with your parents, siblings, friends, fellow Muslims, non-Muslims, neighbors, and even more. When you master how you act toward all these people, you’ve truly accomplished something great. Simple things you can do to improve this are:
1. Call up at least one friend a week, just to talk
2. Commit to one good deed a day, whether it be for your parents, your friend, or other family
3. Try to communicate and understand when dealing with others.
4. Hold your tongue and try your hardest to stay away from anger. At all costs.
5. Don’t jump to conclusions, or judge anyone.
Try to learn about these areas of Islam:
1. Seerah, the Prophet as a father, a neighbor, a Muslim brother, and every other role.
InshaAllah, if we realize that self-improvement and purification is encompassed in these four areas of your life, and we strive to improve them, the night sky will soon be brighter.
“Verily! We have adorned the near heaven with the stars (for beauty).” Surah Saffat 37:6
It’s time for us all to improve ourselves, and light up the night sky once again.
Source: http://www.muslimyouthmusings.com/how-youth-can-be-a-star/
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Things I Enjoy Doing For Fun and My Favs.
Here are some examples of my favorite (Islamic) entertainment, whether they are books, movies (I hope to watch), lectures, videos, hobbies I want to take up, and some other random suggestions!
Books
Loved and Recommend
1. A Brief Illustrated Guide to Understanding Islam by I.A. Ibrahim
2. Dutifulness to Parents in the Light of the Holy Qur'an and the Authentic Sunnah by Nitham Sakkijha
3. Islamic Studies by Dr. Abu Ameenah Bilal Philips (Books 1-4)
4. Paradise: Its Blessings and How to Get There by Ali Hasan Ali Abdul Hameed translated by Huda Khattab
5. The Fundamentals of Tawheed (Islamic Monotheism) by Dr. Abu Ameenah Bilal Philips
6. The Ideal Muslimah by Dr. Muhammad Ali al-Hashimi
7. The Quran and Modern Science: Compatible or Incompatible? by Dr. Zakir Naik
8. The Rights and Duties of Women in Islam by Abdul Ghaffar Hasan (2nd edition (May 2004))
9. Weakness of Faith by Muhammad Salih al-Munajjid (2nd edition)
10. Women in Islam - The Myth and the Reality by Dr. Sherif Abdel Azeem
11. Echoes (series) by Jamilah Kolocotronis
Book 1- Echoes
Book 2- Rebounding
Book 3- Turbulence
Book 4- Ripples
Book 5- Silence
Liked
1. Kitab at-Tauhid by Muhammad Ibn Abdul Wahab
2. Why Women are Accepting Islam by Muhammad Haneef Shahid
3. Priests Embracing Islam by Yusuf Estes
4. You Can Be the Happiest Woman In the World: A Treasure Chest of Reminders by Dr. Aaidh al-Qarni
5. Does My Head Look Big in This? by Randa Abdel-Fattah
Want to Read
1. Commentary on the 40 Hadith of al-Nawawi by Dr. Jamal Ahmed Badi
2. Concept of God in Major Religions by Dr. Zakir Naik
3. Islamic Dress Code for Women compiled by Darussalam Research Division (3rd edition (March 2006))
4. Means of Steadfastness in Islam by Muhammad Salih al-Munajjid
5. Summarized Sahih Al-Bukhari translated by Dr. Muhammad Muhsin Khan
6. The Ideal Muslim by Dr. Muhammad Ali al-Hashimi translated by Nasiruddin al-Khattab (4th edition)
7. The Sealed Nectar: Biography of the Noble Prophet by Safi-ur-Rahman al-Mubarakpuri
8. 10 Things I Hate ABout Me by Randa Abdel-Fattah
Need to Get
1. Book of the End - Great Trials & Tribulations by Al-Hafiz Ibn Katheer Dimashqi translated by Faisal Shafiq
2. Dua: The Weapon of the Believer by Abu Ammaar Yasir Qahdi
3. Important Lessons for Muslim Women by 'Amr Abdul-Mun'im Saleem
4. Prayer According to the Sunnah by Professor Muhammad Zulfiqar
5. Slippery Stone: An Inquiry into Islam's Stance on Music by Khalid Baig
6. Stories of the Prophets by Imam Hafiz Ibn Kathir translated by Rashad Ahmad Azami
7. The Precious Pearls: Description of the Ten Given the Glad Tidings of Paradise by Darussalam Research Division
8. The Purpose of Creation by Bilal Philips
9. Women Around the Messenger by Muhammad Ali Qutub
10. World of the Jinn and Devils by Dr. Umar Sulaiman al-Ashqar translated by Nasiruddan al-Khattab
Other books I need to get and want to read
Life is an Open Secret by Zabrina A. Bakar
1. Think About It: 18 Inspirational Stories from Ordinary Life Experiences
2. You, Me, and We: 18 Inspirational Stories from Ordinary Life Experiences
3. Ramadan Special: 25 Inspirational Stories from Ordinary Life Experiences
If I Should Speak trilogy by Umm Zakiyyah
1. If I Should Speak: A Novel
2. A Voice: The Sequel to If I Should Speak: A Novel
3. Footsteps
Realities of Submission
Hearts We Lost
From Somalia, with Love by Na'ima B. Robert
Boy vs. Girl
Noble Brother by Hesham Hassaballa
The Lies About Muhammad by Moustafa Zayed
God'ed by Dr. Laurence B. Brown
MisGod'ed
YouTube Channels
1. http://www.youtube.com/user/ummahfilms
2. http://www.youtube.com/user/boonaa
3. http://www.youtube.com/user/productivemuslim
4. http://www.youtube.com/user/QuranWeekly
5. http://www.youtube.com/user/sirataalmustaqeem
6. http://www.youtube.com/user/khalifahklothing
7. http://www.youtube.com/user/shaykha
YouTube Videos
1. Poem on 40 Hadith by Ammar- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=abLgTlNeSp0
2. Life is like a Cup of Coffee- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U3NgzQ9Pcsg
3. The Goodly Life- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-fugf1DcNyc
4. Jannah (poem) by Ammar Alshukry- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=evUR8BEoDoY
5. Oh That I Regret- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GGnAxOlA2Dg
Lectures on YouTube
1. http://www.youtube.com/view_play_list?p=737694CA9D72953C
2. http://www.youtube.com/view_play_list?p=5506C9D8E800C169
I Recommend Lectures by
1. Kamal el-Mekki
2. Abdur-Raheem Green
3. Khalid Yasin
4. Yasir Qadhi
5. Abduallah Hakim Quick
6. Bilal Philips
Movies I Want to Watch
1. The Message: The Story of Islam
2. Journey to Mecca: In the Footsteps of Ibn Battuta
3. The Kite Runner
4. Mooz-lum
Websites, Blogs, Forums etc.
1. http://muslimmatters.org/
2. http://www.kalamullah.com/
3. http://www.muslimyouthmusings.com/
4. http://www.igotitcovered.org/
5. http://sisters.islamway.com/forum/ (for sisters ONLY)
Hobbies
1. Reading
2. Writing
3. Scrapbooking
4. Blogging
Hobbies I Want to Take Up
1. Cooking and Baking
2. Gardening
3. Sewing
4. Calligraphy
5. Traveling
And of course, I do have other favorites and such that I didn't include. Hope this gives others an idea of what can be done besides spending a lot of time on Facebook, AIM, and wasting time elsewhere. Let me know what you like to do and recommend!
Books
Loved and Recommend
1. A Brief Illustrated Guide to Understanding Islam by I.A. Ibrahim
2. Dutifulness to Parents in the Light of the Holy Qur'an and the Authentic Sunnah by Nitham Sakkijha
3. Islamic Studies by Dr. Abu Ameenah Bilal Philips (Books 1-4)
4. Paradise: Its Blessings and How to Get There by Ali Hasan Ali Abdul Hameed translated by Huda Khattab
5. The Fundamentals of Tawheed (Islamic Monotheism) by Dr. Abu Ameenah Bilal Philips
6. The Ideal Muslimah by Dr. Muhammad Ali al-Hashimi
7. The Quran and Modern Science: Compatible or Incompatible? by Dr. Zakir Naik
8. The Rights and Duties of Women in Islam by Abdul Ghaffar Hasan (2nd edition (May 2004))
9. Weakness of Faith by Muhammad Salih al-Munajjid (2nd edition)
10. Women in Islam - The Myth and the Reality by Dr. Sherif Abdel Azeem
11. Echoes (series) by Jamilah Kolocotronis
Book 1- Echoes
Book 2- Rebounding
Book 3- Turbulence
Book 4- Ripples
Book 5- Silence
Liked
1. Kitab at-Tauhid by Muhammad Ibn Abdul Wahab
2. Why Women are Accepting Islam by Muhammad Haneef Shahid
3. Priests Embracing Islam by Yusuf Estes
4. You Can Be the Happiest Woman In the World: A Treasure Chest of Reminders by Dr. Aaidh al-Qarni
5. Does My Head Look Big in This? by Randa Abdel-Fattah
Want to Read
1. Commentary on the 40 Hadith of al-Nawawi by Dr. Jamal Ahmed Badi
2. Concept of God in Major Religions by Dr. Zakir Naik
3. Islamic Dress Code for Women compiled by Darussalam Research Division (3rd edition (March 2006))
4. Means of Steadfastness in Islam by Muhammad Salih al-Munajjid
5. Summarized Sahih Al-Bukhari translated by Dr. Muhammad Muhsin Khan
6. The Ideal Muslim by Dr. Muhammad Ali al-Hashimi translated by Nasiruddin al-Khattab (4th edition)
7. The Sealed Nectar: Biography of the Noble Prophet by Safi-ur-Rahman al-Mubarakpuri
8. 10 Things I Hate ABout Me by Randa Abdel-Fattah
Need to Get
1. Book of the End - Great Trials & Tribulations by Al-Hafiz Ibn Katheer Dimashqi translated by Faisal Shafiq
2. Dua: The Weapon of the Believer by Abu Ammaar Yasir Qahdi
3. Important Lessons for Muslim Women by 'Amr Abdul-Mun'im Saleem
4. Prayer According to the Sunnah by Professor Muhammad Zulfiqar
5. Slippery Stone: An Inquiry into Islam's Stance on Music by Khalid Baig
6. Stories of the Prophets by Imam Hafiz Ibn Kathir translated by Rashad Ahmad Azami
7. The Precious Pearls: Description of the Ten Given the Glad Tidings of Paradise by Darussalam Research Division
8. The Purpose of Creation by Bilal Philips
9. Women Around the Messenger by Muhammad Ali Qutub
10. World of the Jinn and Devils by Dr. Umar Sulaiman al-Ashqar translated by Nasiruddan al-Khattab
Other books I need to get and want to read
Life is an Open Secret by Zabrina A. Bakar
1. Think About It: 18 Inspirational Stories from Ordinary Life Experiences
2. You, Me, and We: 18 Inspirational Stories from Ordinary Life Experiences
3. Ramadan Special: 25 Inspirational Stories from Ordinary Life Experiences
If I Should Speak trilogy by Umm Zakiyyah
1. If I Should Speak: A Novel
2. A Voice: The Sequel to If I Should Speak: A Novel
3. Footsteps
Realities of Submission
Hearts We Lost
From Somalia, with Love by Na'ima B. Robert
Boy vs. Girl
Noble Brother by Hesham Hassaballa
The Lies About Muhammad by Moustafa Zayed
God'ed by Dr. Laurence B. Brown
MisGod'ed
YouTube Channels
1. http://www.youtube.com/user/ummahfilms
2. http://www.youtube.com/user/boonaa
3. http://www.youtube.com/user/productivemuslim
4. http://www.youtube.com/user/QuranWeekly
5. http://www.youtube.com/user/sirataalmustaqeem
6. http://www.youtube.com/user/khalifahklothing
7. http://www.youtube.com/user/shaykha
YouTube Videos
1. Poem on 40 Hadith by Ammar- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=abLgTlNeSp0
2. Life is like a Cup of Coffee- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U3NgzQ9Pcsg
3. The Goodly Life- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-fugf1DcNyc
4. Jannah (poem) by Ammar Alshukry- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=evUR8BEoDoY
5. Oh That I Regret- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GGnAxOlA2Dg
Lectures on YouTube
1. http://www.youtube.com/view_play_list?p=737694CA9D72953C
2. http://www.youtube.com/view_play_list?p=5506C9D8E800C169
I Recommend Lectures by
1. Kamal el-Mekki
2. Abdur-Raheem Green
3. Khalid Yasin
4. Yasir Qadhi
5. Abduallah Hakim Quick
6. Bilal Philips
Movies I Want to Watch
1. The Message: The Story of Islam
2. Journey to Mecca: In the Footsteps of Ibn Battuta
3. The Kite Runner
4. Mooz-lum
Websites, Blogs, Forums etc.
1. http://muslimmatters.org/
2. http://www.kalamullah.com/
3. http://www.muslimyouthmusings.com/
4. http://www.igotitcovered.org/
5. http://sisters.islamway.com/forum/ (for sisters ONLY)
Hobbies
1. Reading
2. Writing
3. Scrapbooking
4. Blogging
Hobbies I Want to Take Up
1. Cooking and Baking
2. Gardening
3. Sewing
4. Calligraphy
5. Traveling
And of course, I do have other favorites and such that I didn't include. Hope this gives others an idea of what can be done besides spending a lot of time on Facebook, AIM, and wasting time elsewhere. Let me know what you like to do and recommend!
New World Muslims by Zainab (AnonyMouse)
With all the talk about “Clash of Cultures” and “Muslims adjusting to the West,” and all the rest of that jazz, there’s something that has been overlooked. Muslims in the West do have their very own sub-culture!
We have music (anasheed). We have art. We have movies. We have food. We have clothing. We have comedy. We have intense spiritual leaders and religious institutes with high standards. We have religious conferences that hundreds, if not thousands, attend regularly. We have a pretty big chunk of the World Wide Web that’s all ours. We even have a political system (Let’s-Sit-Around-And-Argue-Over-Random-Useless-Points-For-Hours-On-End-Without-Any-Conclusion-ism) that is unintentionally implemented in most of our masaajid!
Does anybody realize how rockingly awesomely cool that is?
This post is dedicated to all those things which make up the very cool (if somewhat dysfunctional at times) sub-culture of Western Muslims… you’ll notice that I’ve only got a few things listed under each category, and am leaving out a lot of big names, but that’s because I’m being biased here and going with what I know and like. Please don’t hate on me for that.
Music
Anasheed have become a staple in the audio diet of those of us who like to bob our heads to a tune that’s halaal. Over the years, various munshideen have established themselves and many of their songs have become classics. (There are of course a lot more nasheed artists than the ones I’ve listed below, but these are just a few of my favorites.)
■ Dawud Wharnsby Ali. I grew up listening to “The Veil,” “The Everything Song,” “Sunshine, Dust, and the Messenger,” “Madinatun-Nabi.” I’m sure loads of you have also experienced moments where someone will mention the name of a song, and suddenly everybody will be either humming the tune or singing in chorus! (If you don’t, then I guess that’s just me!)
■ Yusuf Islam. “Alif is for Allah” and “Afghanistan, Land of Islam” were – and still are! – amongst my favorites. Zain Bhikha’s anasheed collections are also enjoyed in my household.
■ Ahmad Bukhatir. His nasheed “Last Bre
ath” has probably made as many rounds online as the hujjaaj have around the Ka’bah.
■ Random Jihad anasheed. A bit politically incorrect, perhaps, but admit it – who hasn’t blasted a CD of Jihadi anasheed in their car and pumped their fists to the sound of gunfire and grenades in the background? My personal favorites: Idhrib Yaa Asad al-Fallujah and Sabran Yaa Baghdad.
Art
■ Arabic calligraphy is the first thing that jumps to mind. The cool thing is how it’s evolved – no longer just in black and white, and on parchment paper, but in different styles and colors and through different mediums. “Aerosol Arabic” and Izzy Mo are two Muslim artists whom I think are pretty well known.
■ Architecture. There are so many beautiful masaajid in North America and the U.K.! Although many are based on the traditional structures we find in the Muslim world, they also have a unique flavor of their own.
■ Computer graphics. Muslim computer geeks rock. Without them, we wouldn’t have Islamic wallpapers, screensavers, avatars, website backgrounds, hordes of Islamic lectures available for download, and more!
■ Comics. I discovered NaseehaMan, rahmatAllah ‘alayh, after he passed away. May Allah reward him immensely for his hilarious 100% halaal comic strips!
Movies
■ The Adam’s World series! Who can resist a series of fun and educational videos about a little green Muslim puppet dude? Although it has its faults, overall these movies are great… I still love watching them!
■ Astrolabe Productions has created and sells a bunch of animated feature films, including The Boy and the King, The Lion of ‘Ain Jaloot, Sultan Muhammad al-Fatih, the Adventures of Salaam series, and much more! Though they aren’t perfect, they’re something for Muslim kids, at least… and they represent the evolution of Muslim media, something which can only get better (insha’Allah)!
Clothing
■ Phatwah Factory and HijabMan are, like, pioneers in the funny-Muslim-T-shirt biz! Khalifah Klothing has some pretty cool stuff, too.
■ There are zillions of hijab stores online – CanadianMuslimah, IslamicBoutique, and ShukrOnline are just a few of the ones I know about. There are even designer abaayas and hijaabs!
Comedy
■ Baba Ali from Ummah Films! The Reminder series has become one of the greatest on-line Muslim hits ever, mostly with the younger generation but surprisingly, even with the older ones!
■ Allah Made Me Funny comedy tour. Azhar Usman and Preacher Moss are the best, in my opinion.
■ Maniac Muslim aka Hamza Moin. Good stuff all around.
■ Aman Ali. He’s an up-and-coming comedian, “specializing” in desi comedy… and you got to admit, when it comes to desis, we never run out of material!
Islamic Educational Institutes
Masha’Allah, today we have so many Islamic institutes in the West which teach the traditional sciences of the Deen, as well as approaching Islamic issues from a unique perspective – and best of all, being taught by those who are qualified to do so!
■ Al-Maghrib Institute – The shuyookh we know and love: Muhammad al-Shareef, Yasir Qadhi, Yaser Birjas, Waleed Basyouni, and many more!
■ Al-Kauthar Institute – with Sheikh Tawfique Choudhury
■ Arees Institute – with Sheikh Isam Rajab
■ American Open University – Founded by Jaafar Sheikh Idris
■ Islamic Online University – a recent initiative by Sheikh Bilal Philips
Islamic Organizations
■ CAIR and CAIR-CAN: The Council on American-Islamic Relations is a much beleaguered organizations whom many of us love to hate… but may Allah reward them for their efforts, ameen!
■ ISNA: Islamic Society of North America. No comment on them from me.
■ CIC: Canadian Islamic Congress. Good intentions, but… yah, I’ll leave it at that.
Conferences
■ Texas Da’wah Convention: The legendary conference that I hope I’ll be able to attend one day, insha’Allah!
■ Annual ISNA conference.
■ Reviving the Islamic Spirit conference.
Of course there are many more conferences organized throughout the year and in different locations, but these are the ones that seem to be the most popular.
Disclaimer: I’m not necessarily endorsing the conferences or everything that happens during them… *cough*
The IslamoSphere
Without a doubt, the Muslim presence in the blogosphere has increased exponentially since… well, since even before I discovered it! Muslims from all over the world, with vastly different backgrounds, experiences, and viewpoints have been sharing their thoughts, criticisms, analyses, and more; stirring up debates, flamewars, and even spurring action in real life.
I was going to mention those blogs which are extremely popular and which I read myself, but that’s what blogrolls are for.
Miscellaneous
■ Halaal meat shops and corner stores. Where there’s always a funny smell, an auntie or uncle manning the counter, snacks you won’t find anywhere else in the country, and many interesting discoveries to be made.
■ Masjid uncles and aunties. Much as we complain about them, you also got to love them. Imagine how boring it would be if we didn’t have them around to criticize our every word and move, or running after the kids yelling at them in Urdu/ Arabic/and brandishing their sandals at little kids.
■ Scratchy sound systems. One thing you can always expect with Muslims: you’ll usually miss out on large chunks of khutbahs and halaqahs because you either go temporarily deaf from the screech of static in the beginning of the lecture, or you won’t hear a word because some genius forgot to turn the speakers on.
■ Sunday Schools. Oh, those good old days of spending hours in the masjid basement, either freezing your butt off or feeling ready to pass out from the heat as the auntie/ uncle grills you on the Arabic alphabet or drones on about how if you don’t listen to your parents, you’re going to burn in Hell. (But don’t forget the really amazing teachers out there also – may Allah reward them!)
■ Islamic bookstores and libraries. SubhanAllah, we really do have a lot available when it comes to books! It shows, too – any place with a decent sized Muslim population is bound to have a store or two that sells Islamic books, which are snapped up by those eager to expand their private library at home. As for public Islamic libraries, I don’t know how common they are, although in my old city my dad started one up as part of our Islamic centre. Al-Hamdulillaah, it’s a success! (Library fines and all; and no, we don’t give Fee Sabilillaah discounts).
Source: http://muslimmatters.org/2008/01/13/new-world-muslims/
We have music (anasheed). We have art. We have movies. We have food. We have clothing. We have comedy. We have intense spiritual leaders and religious institutes with high standards. We have religious conferences that hundreds, if not thousands, attend regularly. We have a pretty big chunk of the World Wide Web that’s all ours. We even have a political system (Let’s-Sit-Around-And-Argue-Over-Random-Useless-Points-For-Hours-On-End-Without-Any-Conclusion-ism) that is unintentionally implemented in most of our masaajid!
Does anybody realize how rockingly awesomely cool that is?
This post is dedicated to all those things which make up the very cool (if somewhat dysfunctional at times) sub-culture of Western Muslims… you’ll notice that I’ve only got a few things listed under each category, and am leaving out a lot of big names, but that’s because I’m being biased here and going with what I know and like. Please don’t hate on me for that.
Music
Anasheed have become a staple in the audio diet of those of us who like to bob our heads to a tune that’s halaal. Over the years, various munshideen have established themselves and many of their songs have become classics. (There are of course a lot more nasheed artists than the ones I’ve listed below, but these are just a few of my favorites.)
■ Dawud Wharnsby Ali. I grew up listening to “The Veil,” “The Everything Song,” “Sunshine, Dust, and the Messenger,” “Madinatun-Nabi.” I’m sure loads of you have also experienced moments where someone will mention the name of a song, and suddenly everybody will be either humming the tune or singing in chorus! (If you don’t, then I guess that’s just me!)
■ Yusuf Islam. “Alif is for Allah” and “Afghanistan, Land of Islam” were – and still are! – amongst my favorites. Zain Bhikha’s anasheed collections are also enjoyed in my household.
■ Ahmad Bukhatir. His nasheed “Last Bre
ath” has probably made as many rounds online as the hujjaaj have around the Ka’bah.■ Random Jihad anasheed. A bit politically incorrect, perhaps, but admit it – who hasn’t blasted a CD of Jihadi anasheed in their car and pumped their fists to the sound of gunfire and grenades in the background? My personal favorites: Idhrib Yaa Asad al-Fallujah and Sabran Yaa Baghdad.
Art
■ Arabic calligraphy is the first thing that jumps to mind. The cool thing is how it’s evolved – no longer just in black and white, and on parchment paper, but in different styles and colors and through different mediums. “Aerosol Arabic” and Izzy Mo are two Muslim artists whom I think are pretty well known.
■ Architecture. There are so many beautiful masaajid in North America and the U.K.! Although many are based on the traditional structures we find in the Muslim world, they also have a unique flavor of their own.
■ Computer graphics. Muslim computer geeks rock. Without them, we wouldn’t have Islamic wallpapers, screensavers, avatars, website backgrounds, hordes of Islamic lectures available for download, and more!
■ Comics. I discovered NaseehaMan, rahmatAllah ‘alayh, after he passed away. May Allah reward him immensely for his hilarious 100% halaal comic strips!
Movies
■ The Adam’s World series! Who can resist a series of fun and educational videos about a little green Muslim puppet dude? Although it has its faults, overall these movies are great… I still love watching them!
■ Astrolabe Productions has created and sells a bunch of animated feature films, including The Boy and the King, The Lion of ‘Ain Jaloot, Sultan Muhammad al-Fatih, the Adventures of Salaam series, and much more! Though they aren’t perfect, they’re something for Muslim kids, at least… and they represent the evolution of Muslim media, something which can only get better (insha’Allah)!
Clothing
■ Phatwah Factory and HijabMan are, like, pioneers in the funny-Muslim-T-shirt biz! Khalifah Klothing has some pretty cool stuff, too.
■ There are zillions of hijab stores online – CanadianMuslimah, IslamicBoutique, and ShukrOnline are just a few of the ones I know about. There are even designer abaayas and hijaabs!
Comedy
■ Baba Ali from Ummah Films! The Reminder series has become one of the greatest on-line Muslim hits ever, mostly with the younger generation but surprisingly, even with the older ones!
■ Allah Made Me Funny comedy tour. Azhar Usman and Preacher Moss are the best, in my opinion.
■ Maniac Muslim aka Hamza Moin. Good stuff all around.
■ Aman Ali. He’s an up-and-coming comedian, “specializing” in desi comedy… and you got to admit, when it comes to desis, we never run out of material!
Islamic Educational Institutes
Masha’Allah, today we have so many Islamic institutes in the West which teach the traditional sciences of the Deen, as well as approaching Islamic issues from a unique perspective – and best of all, being taught by those who are qualified to do so!
■ Al-Maghrib Institute – The shuyookh we know and love: Muhammad al-Shareef, Yasir Qadhi, Yaser Birjas, Waleed Basyouni, and many more!
■ Al-Kauthar Institute – with Sheikh Tawfique Choudhury
■ Arees Institute – with Sheikh Isam Rajab
■ American Open University – Founded by Jaafar Sheikh Idris
■ Islamic Online University – a recent initiative by Sheikh Bilal Philips
Islamic Organizations
■ CAIR and CAIR-CAN: The Council on American-Islamic Relations is a much beleaguered organizations whom many of us love to hate… but may Allah reward them for their efforts, ameen!
■ ISNA: Islamic Society of North America. No comment on them from me.
■ CIC: Canadian Islamic Congress. Good intentions, but… yah, I’ll leave it at that.
Conferences
■ Texas Da’wah Convention: The legendary conference that I hope I’ll be able to attend one day, insha’Allah!
■ Annual ISNA conference.
■ Reviving the Islamic Spirit conference.
Of course there are many more conferences organized throughout the year and in different locations, but these are the ones that seem to be the most popular.
Disclaimer: I’m not necessarily endorsing the conferences or everything that happens during them… *cough*
The IslamoSphere
Without a doubt, the Muslim presence in the blogosphere has increased exponentially since… well, since even before I discovered it! Muslims from all over the world, with vastly different backgrounds, experiences, and viewpoints have been sharing their thoughts, criticisms, analyses, and more; stirring up debates, flamewars, and even spurring action in real life.
I was going to mention those blogs which are extremely popular and which I read myself, but that’s what blogrolls are for.
Miscellaneous
■ Halaal meat shops and corner stores. Where there’s always a funny smell, an auntie or uncle manning the counter, snacks you won’t find anywhere else in the country, and many interesting discoveries to be made.
■ Masjid uncles and aunties. Much as we complain about them, you also got to love them. Imagine how boring it would be if we didn’t have them around to criticize our every word and move, or running after the kids yelling at them in Urdu/ Arabic/
■ Scratchy sound systems. One thing you can always expect with Muslims: you’ll usually miss out on large chunks of khutbahs and halaqahs because you either go temporarily deaf from the screech of static in the beginning of the lecture, or you won’t hear a word because some genius forgot to turn the speakers on.
■ Sunday Schools. Oh, those good old days of spending hours in the masjid basement, either freezing your butt off or feeling ready to pass out from the heat as the auntie/ uncle grills you on the Arabic alphabet or drones on about how if you don’t listen to your parents, you’re going to burn in Hell. (But don’t forget the really amazing teachers out there also – may Allah reward them!)
■ Islamic bookstores and libraries. SubhanAllah, we really do have a lot available when it comes to books! It shows, too – any place with a decent sized Muslim population is bound to have a store or two that sells Islamic books, which are snapped up by those eager to expand their private library at home. As for public Islamic libraries, I don’t know how common they are, although in my old city my dad started one up as part of our Islamic centre. Al-Hamdulillaah, it’s a success! (Library fines and all; and no, we don’t give Fee Sabilillaah discounts).
Source:
Muslim Culture vs. Pop Culture: Halaal Alternatives by Zainab (AnonyMouse)
Well, here’s another relevant subject for all of us living here in the West: for teenagers and young adults especially, there is so much haraam going on around us… we have to struggle with such basic things as food, clothing, and entertainment. There is such a great deal of fitnah that sometimes it can be very hard to resist it all, and some of us even fall into the trap of giving in to Shaytaan and his whispers – may Allah protect us and strengthen us, ameen.
This subject and the suggestions I’m about to post below have been taken from the IslamWay Sisters forum (SISTERS-ONLY!!!! – in case you couldn’t figure that out on your own!)
Eating out (McDonald’s, KFC, etc.): Go to a halaal restaurant if there is one around; if there isn’t, stick to what we’re allowed to eat (veggie wraps, salads, seafood).
Music: Qur’aan and anasheed (without musical instruments).
Movies: Ummah Films! Make your own halaal movies – all you need is a video camera (and maybe someone with video editing skills!)
Novels (for those of us who like to read): Islamic novels – surprisingly, there are several Muslim writers out there who’ve written works of Islamic fiction. The Jinn in the Clock, The Wicked Wazir, and Umm Zakiyya’s “If I Should Speak” trilogy are amongst my favorites!
Clothing (guys have it easier than girls!): The best solution to our numerous clothing issues: Wear an ‘abaaya or jilbaab! That way, you don’t have to worry about whether your skirt or blouse is long enough or simple enough; wear whatever you like and just throw on a lovely, simple ‘abaaya/jilbaab over it! There are so many great stores around – online and in many areas in Canada/ the States/ the UK – from where you can buy great quality and great looking ‘abaayas and jilbaabs. If you know of any great online stores, please leave a link in the comments section!
Dating: MARRIAGE!!! Mind you, there’s a lot more to it than just going out and getting married to the first random Muslim dude (or dudette) you meet on the way to the Masjid; keep in mind the many different issues each individual faces! But, for those of us who can’t get married ASAP: fast!
The Prom/partying: Have a sisters-only party! Dress up, wear sparkly hijaabs, blast anasheed from the boombox, play fun and silly games (cheesy classics are classics for a reason – they’re ALWAYS fun!), and take a moment to read aloud some ayaat or ahadeeth to remind ourselves of our ultimate purpose on this earth. Errrr, right – let’s not forget the brothers! Ah, well, I’m sure their Xboxes and Wii’s are keeping them plenty entertained…
Shopping: Mind you, there’s nothing wrong with shopping in moderation… but far too often we find ourselves doling out moolah on things that are neither necessary, nor even wanted. Why not spend that money fee sabeelillaah (for the sake of Allah) instead? Donate to your local masjid, food bank, or any other beneficial cause, and invest in your ASP (Aakhirah Savings Plan)!
Makeup: For sisters, please keep in mind that we’re only allowed to wear makeup in the home, in front of our mahrams. And you know makeup isn’t all that important anyway. One of the amazing benefits of hijaab is that it liberates us from the culture of cosmetic judgment, from people liking us based on our ability to look like Barbie dolls.
Gossiping: Instead of saying mean things about each other, why not find GOOD things to say about each other? Remember the old adage: “If you don’t have anything good to say, don’t say anything at all!” And: “He who fears Allah and the Last Day, should speak good or keep silent.” Let’s work to strengthen our Islamic brother- and sisterhood, not weaken and destroy it!
Teen/ tabloid/ shopping magazines: Instead of stupid things like Cosmo Girl, get a subscription to al-Jumu’ah Magazine or SISTERS magazine for Muslim women. These are amazing efforts by our Muslim brothers and sisters, with a great deal to benefit from in every way. So, rather than wasting money on something that’s ultimately useless (do we need to know whether TomKat’s marriage is holding up, or what Paris Hilton’s latest misdemeanor was?), let’s spend our money flipping through pages of benefit, insha’Allah!
And now, dear readers, it’s up to you! List your own halaal alternatives to the above habits/ hobbies, or mention other habits/ hobbies and halaal alternatives for them!
Source: http://muslimmatters.org/2007/05/16/muslim-culture-vs-pop-culture-halaal-alternatives/
This subject and the suggestions I’m about to post below have been taken from the IslamWay Sisters forum (SISTERS-ONLY!!!! – in case you couldn’t figure that out on your own!)
Eating out (McDonald’s, KFC, etc.): Go to a halaal restaurant if there is one around; if there isn’t, stick to what we’re allowed to eat (veggie wraps, salads, seafood).
Music: Qur’aan and anasheed (without musical instruments).
Movies: Ummah Films! Make your own halaal movies – all you need is a video camera (and maybe someone with video editing skills!)
Novels (for those of us who like to read): Islamic novels – surprisingly, there are several Muslim writers out there who’ve written works of Islamic fiction. The Jinn in the Clock, The Wicked Wazir, and Umm Zakiyya’s “If I Should Speak” trilogy are amongst my favorites!
Clothing (guys have it easier than girls!): The best solution to our numerous clothing issues: Wear an ‘abaaya or jilbaab! That way, you don’t have to worry about whether your skirt or blouse is long enough or simple enough; wear whatever you like and just throw on a lovely, simple ‘abaaya/jilbaab over it! There are so many great stores around – online and in many areas in Canada/ the States/ the UK – from where you can buy great quality and great looking ‘abaayas and jilbaabs. If you know of any great online stores, please leave a link in the comments section!
Dating: MARRIAGE!!! Mind you, there’s a lot more to it than just going out and getting married to the first random Muslim dude (or dudette) you meet on the way to the Masjid; keep in mind the many different issues each individual faces! But, for those of us who can’t get married ASAP: fast!
The Prom/partying: Have a sisters-only party! Dress up, wear sparkly hijaabs, blast anasheed from the boombox, play fun and silly games (cheesy classics are classics for a reason – they’re ALWAYS fun!), and take a moment to read aloud some ayaat or ahadeeth to remind ourselves of our ultimate purpose on this earth. Errrr, right – let’s not forget the brothers! Ah, well, I’m sure their Xboxes and Wii’s are keeping them plenty entertained…
Shopping: Mind you, there’s nothing wrong with shopping in moderation… but far too often we find ourselves doling out moolah on things that are neither necessary, nor even wanted. Why not spend that money fee sabeelillaah (for the sake of Allah) instead? Donate to your local masjid, food bank, or any other beneficial cause, and invest in your ASP (Aakhirah Savings Plan)!
Makeup: For sisters, please keep in mind that we’re only allowed to wear makeup in the home, in front of our mahrams. And you know makeup isn’t all that important anyway. One of the amazing benefits of hijaab is that it liberates us from the culture of cosmetic judgment, from people liking us based on our ability to look like Barbie dolls.
Gossiping: Instead of saying mean things about each other, why not find GOOD things to say about each other? Remember the old adage: “If you don’t have anything good to say, don’t say anything at all!” And: “He who fears Allah and the Last Day, should speak good or keep silent.” Let’s work to strengthen our Islamic brother- and sisterhood, not weaken and destroy it!
Teen/ tabloid/ shopping magazines: Instead of stupid things like Cosmo Girl, get a subscription to al-Jumu’ah Magazine or SISTERS magazine for Muslim women. These are amazing efforts by our Muslim brothers and sisters, with a great deal to benefit from in every way. So, rather than wasting money on something that’s ultimately useless (do we need to know whether TomKat’s marriage is holding up, or what Paris Hilton’s latest misdemeanor was?), let’s spend our money flipping through pages of benefit, insha’Allah!
And now, dear readers, it’s up to you! List your own halaal alternatives to the above habits/ hobbies, or mention other habits/ hobbies and halaal alternatives for them!
Source: http://muslimmatters.org/2007/05/16/muslim-culture-vs-pop-culture-halaal-alternatives/
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