Muslim Prisoners: Victims of Poverty
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful ISLAMIC VOICE, July 2012 1
32 Pages Rs. 15 Bangalore English Monthly
July 2012 Vol. 25-07 No. 307 Shaban - Ramadan 1433 H
Muslim Prisoners: Victims of Poverty
A recent TISS report reveals that poverty and illiteracy are the key factors for the large
population of Muslims in jails.
By A Staff Writer time of arrest. This violates the declines to discuss in detail the whom the police slapped with of inmates from the minority
rights of an accused. alleged police discrimination the non-bailable, cognisable community had completed their
A recent report by two The report discusses several against Muslims, a few Section 333 after he had a higher secondary education,
scholars, Dr Vijay Raghvan and reasons for so many Muslims confessions do pertain to it. spat with traffic constables for while few had gone to college
Roshni Nair of the Centre for joining crime. Lack of resources Sajid, a prison inmate with jumping a signal. Assaulted or completed their post-graduate
Criminology and Justice at the and income opportunities, brutally for arguing with degree, states the report. If we
Tata Institute of Social Sciences peer pressure and conflict the cops, Shaikh suffered add the percentage of illiterates
(TISS) reveals that Muslims with the police were cited a fracture on his right to those educated up to the
comprise 32.4 % of the prison as the major reasons. arm, arrested and cooled primary level, only 0.6% had
population in Maharashtra jails, The report also gives his heels in prison for completed their graduation,
whereas Muslim population in area of residence as one eight days while the four while the number of post-
the state is 10.6%. of the major reasons for cops got bail on the same graduates was a marginal four,
Commissioned by the State Muslims taking to crime. day since their offence, the 117-page survey report
Minorities Commission, the Many respondents who according to the FIR, states.
study is based on interviews were involved in repeat was non-cognisable. Thus poverty and lack of
with 339 Muslim inmates, offences came from This shows the clear education among Muslims have
mostly between 18 and 30 years Muslim neighborhoods bias of the police against surfaced as the key reasons for
of age, in 15 prisons. “Our team where, they said, they Muslim offenders, alleges them taking to crime, the report
questions were first approved by were witness to the Hashmi. The TISS report suggested. The highest number
the jail authorities, says Dr Vijay flourishing of illegal says that most Muslims of illiterate inmates was found
Raghvan. activities. A considerable a criminal record, told the echo these sentiments: They in Mumbai and Thane.
The report points out the fact that number were arrested for alleged researchers: “I am trying to view the police as an unjust Of the total 614 under-trials
some of the offences are minor in forgery of documents, making make a new beginning. Every system using unfair methods in and convicts in Thane jail,
nature. Dr Vijay Raghavan says fake currency notes, cheating time I start some work, the the performance of their duties. 176 had never been to school,
that 75.5% of the respondents and fraud. Since many Muslim police arrest me on some charge Another reason why Muslims while 378 had barely attended
were arrested for the first time ghettoes are blacklisted by the or the other. They also demand take to crimes is illiteracy. primary school. Of the 709
and 24.5% were repeat arrestees. banks, even better educated money from me. Those who The study reveals that 31% inmates in Mumbai jails, 225
This shows that majority of the people forge documents to can pay are set free. The police of the Muslims under-trials were uneducated and another
respondents were not career get loans. Some of them paid are very powerful and can do and convicts could not read or 475 had studied only up to
criminals, says the report. The agents to make fake documents anything”. write, while another 61% could Class IV. A majority of the
study reveals that over 30% of in order to get the loan, explains Human rights activist, Shabnam barely understand the written inmates interviewed by the team
the prisoners were not allowed the report. Hashmi cites the recent example word, having studied only up to admitted that lack of education
to talk to their relatives at the Although Dr Vijay Raghvan of Kalyan resident Bilal Shaikh, Class IV. Only a small number Page 24
ISLAMIC VOICE, July 2012
2
Darul Umoor completes a Decade Best Doctor Award
Convocation held for the 11th Batch
By A Staff Writer Srirangapatna,” said Ziaullah some have got jobs abroad and
Sheriff while speaking to Islamic in India in the software industry
Srirangapatna: The convocation Voice. So far, 245 students from too. About 20 % are earning
for the 11th batch of students various madrasas have come out of upto Rs 8000 a month, 20 % at
of Darul Umoor- Tipu Sultan Darul Umoor since 2002. About least Rs 20,000, 5 % about Rs
Advanced Study and Research 44 % cent are from Nadwa, 22 % 50,000 and 2 % one lakh. Yet
Centre, was held last month in the from Deoband, Islah, 4 %, Falah there are many improvements to
campus. Set up in 2002, under the 4 %, Omerabad, 5 % Sabeelur be done in Darul Umoor and we
aegis of the Sheriff Foundation, Rashad, Bangalore 5 % and other need really dedicated people for
the centre is the brainchild of madrasas 16 %. “ Students who this,” says Ziaullah Sheriff. Syed
noted businessman and builder have been in Darul Umoor, after Hamid Mohsin of Salaam Centre,
Ziaullah Sheriff, who heads completing the course here, have Bangalore and Maulana Abdul Chennai: The Tamil Nadu Dr and Mooligai Doctor, a monthly
the India Builders Corporation gone out into the world with Bari Nadwi, principal of Jamia M.G.R. Medical University Tamil magazine. Dr Ameen is
in Bangalore. Tucked away new fresh perspectives. About Islamia, Bhatkal were among the conferred the “Best Doctor the managing director of S.K’S
amidst a quiet coconut grove 58 % of the students have opted chief guests. Secretary General Award” to Dr Syed M.M. Ameen Integrated Medical Wellness
in Srirangapatna, Darul Umoor to teaching deeniyat, computers of the Centre, A.R. Kamaruddin, for his services towards the Centre, a Unani Hospital
provides the best of residential and English, 15 % have taken Faculty member M.A. Ataulla Unani system of medicine, as Research and Wellness centre
facilities to its batch of 20-25 up higher education, 7 % have and Dr Haziq Nadwi, presented the editor of Herbal Unani Med, for the application of Unani
students taken in every year who joined trade and business and the progress report of the Centre. a monthly English magazine therapies.
have graduated from different
madrasas across India. “Here, Imam’s daughter scores 97%.
during the course of 11 months,
they are exposed to different Dreams to be a doctor to serve the Poor
subjects like Management, History, Hyderabad: of books. She had to face
English, Computers, Comparative Tayyaba Fatima, various punishments for
Religion and seminars, on various daughter of an Imam the whole year when she
topics. When I was a student of the of a small mosque, could not pay the school
Muslim Hostel in Mysore, I would is one among the fee on time. But despite
cycle around and see the condition scores of girls who all these, she secured
of the Muslim institutions. I made have set a goal for nothing short of 1st
up my mind that if God bestows them against all odds division. And this time,
some financial status on me, I and she is hopeful she secured 97 percent
would use it for the welfare of that she would fulfill marks. She says ‘I want
the community. It was the vision her dream. Daughter of an Imam to become a doctor not because I
of Tipu Sultan that he wanted to of Masjid Baqer Husaini, located want to earn money, but to serve
set up a centre for the Ulema like at Basti Nabi Kareem surrounded poor people like us.’ She further
this. I became passionate about by slums, is studying in the fifth says, ‘whenever any of our family
this and with the team effort standard. She is so deprived that members falls ill, we don’t have
of a few friends, set this up in she does not have a complete set money to go to a hospital’.
Raksheenda Ads
Raksheenda Ads
ISLAMIC VOICE, July 2012 3 Tutorial Coaching with Deeniyat By A Staff Writer Bangalore: A group of professionals have started tutorial classes in HBR Layout here combining subjects taught in CBSE and ICSE together with teaching of Deeniyat and Arabic language. Students aged between 7 and 14 years and requiring coaching in core subjects can enroll against payment of tutorial fee. Classes are held in evening in two batches. Desirous students can call Mr. Anwar, 8970786666 or 9739260392 or email: Mahadussufah@gmail. com. The classes are held in the Wisdom School premises at No. 2, 7th cross, 1st main, 1st stage, 2nd block HBR Layout, Yasin Nagar, Bangalore-560 043. n
banking & finance ISLAMIC VOICE, July 2012
4
Hamid Taylor
A Banker’s Tryst with Philanthropy
By Maqbool Ahmed Siraj
For suave, soft-spoken and ever- philanthropy and social service that it is being dusted off and bred and educated in that urbs himself in Dubai, the hub of the
pensive Abdul Hamid Taylor, in Bangalore. Though he receiving a fresh coat of paint prima, he did his family proud new economic dynamism in the
life has been a multi-tiered acquired a house in Bangalore for his several short sojourns to by topping the promotional region. He served short stints in
escalator, offering one station some decades ago, it is only now dispense off what he gathered exam of the Bank of India in Mashreqbank (Bank of Oman
after another, each elevating over the long years. 1972 after having earned his then) and still later Union Bank
him to a newer height. A banker Rooted in Kerala ancestry, M. Com, LLB and CAIIB. of the Middle East rechristened
by choice, qualification and Hamid’s parents had moved to Oil boom had brightened the EMIRATESNBD chaired by
training, Hamid having dealt Late Abdul Wahab Galadhari.
with money in ample measure, Still later, having been picked up
is now looking to a future in Islamic banking is only nominally by tycoon Mohammed Abdullah
disbursing much of what he Al-Qubaisi of the National bank
earned for himself. different from conventional banking and of Abu Dhabi he was carried
General Manager at Abu the element of interest gets camouflaged. to the Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank
Dhabi’s Finance House at a time and then to Finance House. “It
when his plea for giving him a was a company of trust that has
final respite from a 43-career Mumbai from Kannur to ensure prospects in the Gulf by the mid endured for over two decades”,
is being stonewalled, Hamid is their kids a future no other city in 1970s and Hamid took wings he observes.
contemplating a life devoted to India could promise then. Born, shortly thereafter to anchor Page 22
ISLAMIC VOICE, July 2012 5
Donating Blood, 40 Times
“A man never stands as tall as donate in a blood camp, but at The Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R.
when he lies down to save lives to the patient directly. The Medical University, Guindy,
by giving blood.” This is the Tamil Nadu Public Service Chennai. Sadaqathullah is
philosophy which has guided Commission Chairman, R. also secretary, Kayalpatnam
Shaikh Sadaqathullah, who has Nataraj, IPS, and Dr. Mayil HAM Radio Society, trustee
been a voluntary Blood Donor Vahanan Natarajan, Vice - Kayalpatnam Medical Trust
since 1993 and his blood group Chancellor, The Tamil Nadu Hospital and member - Tamil
is A1B Negative (Rarest Group Dr. M.G.R. Medical University, Nadu Haj Service Society,
- 1% in the world population). presented a Certificate of Chennai. For more details,
So far, he has donated blood Appreciation to him on the visit his website, www. The Tamil Nadu Public Service Commission Chairman Thiru. R. Nataraj and Dr.
40 times and since his blood occasion of World Blood sadaqathullah.com/blood.html. Mayil Vahanan Natarajan, Vice Chancellor, The Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R. Medical
group is very rare, he cannot Donor Day on 14th June 2012, Email: sadaqa@hotmail.com. University, presented a Certificate of Appreciation to Shaikh Sadaqathullah.
ISLAMIC VOICE, July 2012
6
Canada
Galloway Wins Bradford 30% Muslim Women
Bradford: The British city
which is host to a large Asian
to the unwavering support of the
Asian Muslim community.
Thus, it was considered to be a
sign of dissatisfaction with the
Marry Non-Muslim Men
community, has been a Labour The results were received as mainstream parties and, by some Vancouver (Canada) : Multi- men to marry non-Muslim
Party stronghold for 100 years. a blow to labour leader Ed Islamphobic media, considered faith Metro Vancouver is a place women, because they don’t pass
However, in the Bradford West Miliband who had been expected a source concern since they of high rates of intermarriage and on the faith.
understood it as ‘Islamic inter-ethnic dating. Islam, now “There is a lot of heartache if a
extremism’ inauguration in the second largest religion in Muslim woman marries a non-
British politics. Canada, teaches that it is sinful Muslim,” says Fehmida Khan,
Galloway built his election for Muslim women, but not president of the Canadian Muslim
strategy upon two issues: Muslim men, to marry outside Women’s Association. She
Occupation of Afghanistan, the faith. explains that Muslim imams and
Palestine and the austerity Professor Yvonne Haddad, a other religious officials won’t talk
policies, and called his victory a prominent Islamic scholar at the to non-Muslims about difficulties
“Bradford Spring,” thus making University of Massachussets, followers have with marriage.
a comparison to the popular says that Canadian census figures, Only about four per cent of
uprisings taking place in Arab which are far more detailed than foreign-born Muslim women
countries. He might seem to be U.S. census data, reveal the extent in Canada will intermarry, says
of the marriage threat to North Hassan Hamdani, a Muslim
going too far by comparing a
America’s roughly two million researcher who studies Muslim
Liberal democratic Britain to the
Muslim women. Statistics Canada demographics through his job with
by-election George Galloway, to capitalize on the double dip oppressive dictatorial regimes of
census data shows that roughly 30 Statistics Canada in Ottawa. But
the outspoken British politician, recession that hit hard on the the Middle East, yet there might % of Canadian Muslim women evidence of second-generation
gained a landslide victory against UK economy. The results were be some similarities between the marry non-Muslim men, says Muslims embracing Canadians’
Labour’s Pakistani Muslim also bad news for Tories as their two. Increasing unemployment, Haddad. openness to intermarriage is
candidate Imran Hussain, thanks vote went significantly down. cost of living and discrimination Children are the crux of the strong, Hamdani says. Almost
have indeed frustrated the large Muslim law against women 40 per cent of Canadian-born
Switzerland working class Asian community marrying outside the faith. Islam Muslim families consist of a
of Bradford, especially the teaches that Muslim identity is Muslim wife and non-Muslim
Swiss Islamic Bodies youth who have had to face
uncertainty and alienation. n
transferred through the father.
That makes it all right for Muslim
husband. (Source: Vancouver
Sun, June 5, 2012) n
to Merge
Geneva: The Federation of many obstacles in the way
Swiss Islamic Organizations before recognition on the
(FIDS) and the Coordination state level would be possible.
of Islamic Organizations in He highlights especially the
Switzerland (KIOS) announced low degree of institutional
recently their intention to organization in Islam, while
merge and create a “religious also pointing out that the
parliament” in order to represent issue concerns perhaps
the Muslims of Switzerland and only 15% of “Muslims”
receive official recognition from in Switzerland, i.e. those
the state. who practice their faith.
Andreas Tunger-Zanetti, Moreover, given the ethnic
specialist of Islam and cleavages among Muslim
coordinator of the Center immigrant groups which still
for Religious Studies at the persist, he states that it is still
University of Lucerne, believes too early to begin speaking
however that there are still too of a unified movement. n
ISLAMIC VOICE, July 2012 7
International Peace Award UAE opens 40 schools in Pakistan
Swat: The UAE Project to ceremony was held at one
presented to OIC Chief Assist Pakistan has completed of the boys’ schools in
40 world-class schools and the presence of Abdullah
Jeddah: The institutes and handed them Khalifa Al Ghafli, director
Secretary General of over to the local authorities in of the Project. The
the Organization of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province Project, which focuses
Islamic Cooperation, in Pakistan. This was in line with on four major sectors:
Professor Ekmeleddin the directives of UAE President education, public health,
Ihsanoglu has Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al roads and bridges comes one of the leading donors in
been awarded the Nahyan. Nearly 21,000 boys within the framework of the the field of humanitarian aid
“International Peace and girls have already started efforts by the UAE to help and international development
Award 2011-2012” classes. A grand opening Arab and Muslim countries as around the world.
by the Beirut-based
International Human
Rights Commission (IHRC). world about the universal
IHRC World Chairman and norms, values and practices
Ambassador at Large, Dr. such as democracy, good
Muhammad Shahid Amin Khan governance and rule of law,
presented the award along with freedom of expression, respect
‘lifetime membership’ to the for human rights, women’s
OIC chief at a ceremony held empowerment and participation
at the OIC headquarters in in political process, protection
Jeddah recently. The award was of Muslim minority rights and
in recognition of Ihsanoglu’s above all, for his services for
services to the Muslim world the establishment of the OIC
and his contribution towards Independent Permanent Human
raising awareness in the Muslim Rights Commission.
Refugees in Muslim
countries on the Rise
Jeddah: On June 20, many of OIC member states gathered
countries mark U.N. World at a conference focusing on
Refugee Day with events to raise refugees in the Muslim world
awareness about the situation of in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan last
refugees. In recent years, Muslim month, to address this issue in
countries have seen a huge ways that can promote stability
growth in refugees. The United and peace. This issue is crucial
Nations High Commissioner for as it may be years, before those
Refugees (UNHCR), António who are currently refugees can
Guterres, recently stated that return home. Khalid Koser, an
“in 2011, the 57 Organization expert at the Washington, D.C.-
of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) based Brookings Institution
states, hosted 50 per cent of the think tank, estimates there have
people who are of concern to been approximately two million
UNHCR, some 17.6 million in refugees who have left countries
total. Several representatives affected by the Arab Spring.
ISLAMIC VOICE, July 2012
8
AMP Convention at Lonavala
Education, Economic Empowerment Emphasised
Lonavala, (Maharashtra): address two basic problems i.e., employable. He said that there is pioneer of the ‘Rahmani Super- impart coaching to students but
The two-day convention of poverty and illiteracy. He said no shortage of traditional skills 30’ guidance & training for also identify budding geniuses
the Association of the Muslim the focus should be on education in the community but the need is budding IIT aspirants, said and nurture them.
professionals that attracted 90 through effective utilization for enhancing their managerial political empowerment through According to Syed Najeebur
participants from across the of Government Plans for the skills to move up the economic identification and analysis of Rahman, who heads the PR and
underprivileged. He chain. Governmental policies and communication wing of the AMP,
said that we need to Religious scholar from Panta plans was crucial. He said the organization concentrates
have a pool of trained Mohammad Wali Rahmani, academicians should not merely Page 24
skilled workers and
there needs to be
a paradigm shift
of societal change
through intensive
implementation of
technology. He also
asked the youth to
develop respect for
the Constitution.
The convention took
place on June 16 and
17 at Balwan Village
Resort.
Mr. P. A. Inamdar,
leading educationist
and businessman
from Pune, said India
offered immense
opportunities to
people without any
prejudice against
caste, colour and
religion merely
because of its
democratic set-up.
He said in autocratic
countries, the wealth
gets concentrated in a
few hands. Inamdar
said focus should be
country emphasized educational on employment-oriented courses
empowerment and economic like the ones in Industrial
upliftment of the Muslims. In Training Institutes (ITIs) in
his keynote address, Dr. M. order to make them employable.
M. Ansari, former Information Regarding the underprivileged,
Commissioner, Central he said that Focus should be on
Information Commission and Employment oriented courses
presently the Government of India (like ITI) for students so that even
appointed interlocutor on Jammu if they are unable to continue
and Kashmir, said Muslim need to further studies, they are still
book review ISLAMIC VOICE, July 2012 9
Muslim Education
Accessing Equity Exclusion linked deprivation reinforces barriers
between communities and individuals and leads
to negation of human rights and freedom.
Minority Education in India: Issues of Access, Equity by Gujarat police in a fake
and Inclusion encounter, hailed) and etches colleges after the community to education and employment is
Edited by Dr. Abdul Waheed to relief the contours of spatial was targeted en masse in Gujarat. fairer than West Bengal which
delineation. Evidently, Muslims alone has been under supposedly
Serials Publication, New Delhi Not all positive efforts on cannot be accused of gender secular Marxists regimes for
4830/24-Prahlad St., Ansari Road, inclusion of a minority would disparity. Mobility of women the last 35 years. Despite
Daryaganj, New Delhi110002 pay the dividends unless the presupposes physical safety Muslims representing a quarter
Rs. 850, Pages 252 powers that be ensure communal and environment of communal of the state’s population, their
security and harmony. Sabiha harmony. Disequilibrium affects representation is merely 2.1%
Reviewed by Maqbool Ahmed Siraj Hussain’s paper on plight of the women more than men. among government employees.
the community in Darbhanga But curiously, record of None of the State’s more than
district of Bihar says Muslim communal Gujarat in matters 20 universities were set up in
Minority Education in India: life. Tone of the book is set by girls were withdrawn from of providing access to Muslims Page 30
Issues of Access, Equity and paper titled ‘Social Topography
Inclusion is edited compilation of Delineated Others: Muslims
of 22 papers presented by a in Contemporary India’, a study
large number of educationists focused on Mumbra suburb
and social activists at a national of Mumbai. The chapter is an
seminar organized under the aegis exercise in mapping moral
of CEPECAMI in the Aligarh barricading vis-à-vis others with
Muslim University on March 7 topographical delineation. It
and 8, 2009. Having attracted analyses how exclusion linked
a diverse range of scholars, the deprivation causes barriers for
seminar looked at the Muslim individuals and communities
situation in the field of education and how exclusion underlines
and assessed as to where the the negation of freedom and
Muslim community figures after denial of basic human right to
65 years of independence. those who are at the periphery
Exclusion linked deprivation of contemporary political and
has been the bane of Muslims development discourses. The
in India. While it is more paper by Manoj Kumar Jha and
pronounced in political P. K. Shahjahan focuses on how
representation and economic myths propagated by media,
empowerment, it operates subtly misinterpretation of history and
in the educational and cultural linking of violent incidents to
fields as they are considered Islam and Muslims could malign
tools of soft power. Being the the image of a community and
key input for economic progress, ruin its prospects of claiming
modern, higher and professional inclusion and equal opportunities
education is considered sine and lead to civic neglect and
qua non for Muslims to claim increased surveillance of the
their legitimate place and areas inhabited by them. The
proportional representation study has focused on Mumbra
in vital spheres of national (from where Ishrat Jahan, killed
ISLAMIC VOICE, July 2012
10
LETTERS
Prisoners of the Past
Progressive Steps for Welfare
Old—be they things, formulas, methods, or patterns— For the past few months, I have been receiving Islamic anti-Muslim comments. Surely, the editor is aware of
always looks comfortable. It is so because it is known, Voice and have been pleasantly surprised to read about the fearless way, Khushwant Singh has spoken about
seen, tested and tried. New, stranger as it is, is viewed the progressive steps being taken for the education injustice to Muslims, and his untiring efforts to create
with doubt, received with skepticism and adopted—if and economic welfare of the Muslims of India. It is cordial relations between India and Pakistan over the
it comes to that—with fear. Continuing with the old is also heartening to read about the success of Muslim past many decades. I doubt if it is a good policy to allow
easy, smooth and effortless. Embracing the new involves candidates in the competitive exams. There is no total freedom of expression to a contributor to criticize.
challenges, entails effort and is full of risks. But old doubt that the presence of senior Muslim officers in The editor must keep a close eye on such submissions.
ultimately yields place to the new and gets phased out. our administrative services will reduce the frustration Readers must have seen in the press about a group of
Those insistent upon sticking with the old find themselves which the majority of Muslims are prone to feel, Muslims in London who are attempting to modernize
cast into the trash bin of history. New takes over the old, because of the absence of their co-religionists in high Islam. It will be interesting to follow their progress.
gets entrenched and reigns till it itself gets overtaken by positions. I was surprised to read a letter in the June Perhaps Islamic Voice can also join the debate.
the newer one. 2012 issue, which criticized Khushwant Singh for his Zafar Futehally, Bangalore.
Muslims are generally residents of the comfort zones and
also the ones who take pride in it. Glorifying the past
is their pet pastime. Old is holy too. New scares them. Lowering the Gaze
They see in it a challenge to their faith, set of beliefs and This is with reference to the question and answer have found that people do not lower their gaze, but
traditions. In most cases, the reference to the new is a section in the June 2012 issue of Islamic Voice. In lower their heads and as a result, they are looking
sacrilege for them. The new is also a threat to their way a reply to a question about where one should look straight. Even when they are in public, their gaze
of living, mode of thinking and manner of behaving. No during salaat, one of the options given is to look is not lowered. So their salaat does not have the
wonder then why the agents of change have been vilified, at the Imam. The Quran instructs us to lower our desired effect.
demonized and dubbed fifth columnists. Few amongst gaze in public. I am of the view that this can be Haroon Shaikh,
us are amenable to new ideas, tolerant of the criticism achieved by lowering our gaze during salaat. But I shaikhhb@gmail.com.
of the old and open to reform. So champions of the old
are feted, status quoists are honoured, Islamic press feels
no qualms in uncritically publishing the writings of
An Appeal from Rampur
and is available with very few chemists. With a
the dead and singing paeans of the hackneyed and the
Saba Mahboob Shamsi is 27 years old and lives weak economic background and aging parents too,
trite. Revisionists face contempt and reformists stay
with her parents and two brothers in a two -room the family is running from pillar to post to buy the
condemned. ‘Revert to the old’ is the reigning slogan
house in the by-lanes of Rampur in Uttar Pradesh. medicine for Saba. The family appeals for help
even though it is sounded through amplifiers, circulated
Saba is suffering from myasthenia gravis which from the community. For more details, contact Saba
over the Internet and propagated through radio and the
is a chronic auto-immune neuromuscular disease or Shoeb Shamsi at: c/o Mr. Mahboob Ali Shamsi,
TV.
characterized by varying degrees of weakness of Ghair Peepal Wala, Saifal Khan. Near House of Datt
Scarcely do we realize that passage of time and change
the skeletal muscles of the body. Saba has to be Bhai, Rampur , Uttar Pradesh, Pin Code 244901.
of locale could influence laws, social mores, norms of
on medicines lifelong for survival, which are very Mobile (Shoeb Shamsi):8791210581. The doctor’s
propriety and conventions, just as the traditions we follow
expensive. Every bottle of the prescribed medicine letters and hospital documents are available with
were new at certain point of time in history. So sharia
“Mastenol” that contains 150 tablets costs Rs 2700, her brother Shoeb Shamsi.
remains inscribed in stone; women must stay away from
the mosque; zakat must be doled out only to madrassas;
three talaqs at one go dissolve marriage irrevocably; An Appeal to Human Rights Organisations
moon must be sighted to herald lunar months; one not
trained in a traditional madrassa must not interpret the The cold-blooded murder of Qateel Siddiqui in We appeal to the national and international human
Islamic law; non-Muslim judges must not adjudicate Pune’s Yarvada high security jail recently, is yet rights organisations to take notice of the situation
Muslim civil disputes; et al. The list of abominations another proof that the life of a Muslim is no longer in India where sections of the administration are
goes on and on and manifestations of it are too palpable safe in India even behind the walls of a high security fighting a war against the country’s largest religious
to be missed in the Muslim society. jail. minority in the name of fighting “terror”, while the
Evidently, this stage has been reached due to the This cold-blooded murder comes in quick succession security agencies themselves are the biggest culprits
dogmatic approach that Muslims have come to adopt and after a number of cases where security agencies’ and excel in fabrication of cases and use torture to
demonstrate in each and every sector of life. It does not high-handedness in dealing with Muslim youth force the accused to confess to crimes they never
help, to say the least. Rather it acts as an albatross against on flimsy charges and mere suspicion gives away committed.
progress and development, to admit the least. the game of the administration’s war against the ALL INDIA MUSLIM MAJLIS-E-
It is time this mindset is given up to embrace changes, Muslim community in the name of fighting “terror”. MUSHAWARAT
interpret the laws and the ancient text more progressively. The murdered accused, Qateel Siddiqui, was a law- [Umbrella body of the Indian Muslim organisations],
Nations and communities do not commit collective suicide. abiding citizen of this country. New Delhi, mushawarat@mushawarat.com
They marginalize themselves by creating a sea of taboos
and anathemas around them. Narrow vision stunts their Good Piece on Cupping
outlook, lack of freedom of expression and articulation I was happy to read an article on Cupping in Islamic (hijama). (Sahih al-Bukhari (5371) . This shows the
smothers dissent, and fear of loss of originality breeds Voice. Cupping is the best remedy recommended and importance of this Sunnah.
rejectionism and spawns negativism. Gleefully clinging used by the Prophet (Pbuh). The Messenger said, Abdul Rahiman Chaithotam,
to their past, they have hardly anything to offer the world “Indeed the best of remedies you have is cupping Bangalore
by way of contemporary. Consequently, the changes pass
them by, reducing them to the signposts of an old era,
objects of romantic past but irrelevant for future. Such Tamil Writer seeks Publishers
people do exist, but live in the past. They are rendered I have completed some books , the first is The the money I may get as way of Royalty for
to serfdom, consigned to sidelines of the civilization Life of the holy Prophet (Pbuh) in Tamil. The performing Hajj with my wife. I am now 74
and are easy target for calumnies such as practitioners Hagiography of the Prophets of Allah, The years old and need this as never before.
of terrorism. Phobias can be kicked up against them and Salient Features of Islam and description, My address:
chimeras can be churned up with ease. Prisoners of the cause and effect of each surah in the Quran. Muhammad Ali Khalilullah,
comfort zones and enmeshed in the past, they have only (these are in English). I am looking for printers No 4/88-C, Habib Street, Second Floor, Fort,
to blame themselves, none else. Are we listening? and publishers for these books. I hope to use Salem-636001, Ph: 0427-2217879ISLAMIC VOICE, July 2012 11
Azad Foundation
Muslim girl students Scholarships for Girls Announced
felicitated in Manipur New Delhi: Maulana Azad
Foundation under the aegis
boards can apply online from
July 1. The applications can be
The Foundation website says
that it is a one time scholarship
By Dr. Syed Ahmed of the Central Government downloaded from the website and no claim as permanent
has invited applications from www.maef.nic.in and can be beneficiary will be entertained.
Imphal: Manipur Muslim Sis- girl students among Muslims submitted till September 30 this Students once selected for
terhood (MMS), a face-book and other recognized minority year. scholarship cannot avail the
forum, organised a felicitation communities for courses The applicants should have same again. Students getting a
programme on 17 June, 2012 beginning after 10th standard secured not less than 55 % mark scholarship from any other source
at Oinam in Imphal West dis- (or SSLC) for the new academic in 10th standard board exam would not be eligible for this
trict, Manipur, to commemo- year. All those who have and their family income from all scholarship, the announcement
rate the achievement of Mus- passed the 10th std from state sources should not exceed Rs. said. Scholarship will be
80 girls were felicitated at the examination boards, ICSE or admissible for expenditure on
lim girl students in the recently one lakh in the preceding year
function. CBSE or any other recognized payment of school or college
declared Class X and Class XII i.e., 2011-2012. They should
(Twocircles.net) fee, purchase of textbooks,
board examinations, and the have secured admission in any
course and college recognized stationery, equipments required
Jamia Millia’s Architecture
Manipur MBBS/BDS Entrance
Examination, 2012. MMS is a by the governments, State or for the course and payment of
face-book forum of Manipuri Central. hostel charges, it added. n
Muslims, which was created in
2012 with the objective of pro-
faculty among top 10 in India
moting and sustaining ‘women New Delhi: The Faculty of latest issue. The first position in
empowerment’ within the Mus- Architecture and Ekistics of the top 10 is held by Department
lim community in Manipur. Jamia Millia Islamia has been of Architecture, IIT, Roorkee
MMS agendas includes gender ranked at the 8th position followed by Sir JJ College of
issues including women em- amongst the top 10 Architecture Architecture, Mumbai. Jamia
powerment, confidence building Colleges of the country in a Millia’s department of Social
measures, women’s rights and survey conducted by ‘Outlook’ Work holds 4th position among
problems, fighting men’s preju- magazine. Jamia’s faculty has top 10 faculties/institutes for
dices (patriarchal domination) got overall 810 points out of social work studies. In this
and societal, cultural prejudices 1,000. The Outlook magazine category, Tata Institute of Social
against women. More than has published the survey in its Sciences holds first rank.commentary ISLAMIC VOICE, July 2012
12
Delhi HC Ruling on Age of Muslim Girls Marriage
personal laws, religious codes or annul the marriage upon
Setting the Clock back and ethnic customs. For the
implementation part, the State
exercised leniency, providing
attaining puberty by expressing
or withdrawing her consent.
Just as Islam did not prescribe
By Maqbool Ahmed Siraj Marriage should ideally take exercised immense amount of scope for awareness to percolate any age of marriage, it did not
place between people who are energy to resist the compulsions and social reforms to be imbibed oppose fixation of any age
The Delhi High Court’s refusal physically mature and possess of traditions six decades ago rather than enforced. either. Such questions were left
to render the marriage of a 15- maturer minds. While puberty when they fixed the age of Islam, like all other religions, open for future societies—and
year old Muslim girl void raises or physical maturity could be marriage for girls and boys at did not prescribe any age for by extensions—states to decide
more questions than it answers. subject to diet, climate and racial 18 and 21 respectively. Several marriage. It would not have as per the exigencies of the
The judgment is basically and genetic characteristics, of the national leaders must been feasible given the general time.
flawed because it practically there is almost a consensus have had memories of their insecurity and warfare then. But Prophet Muhammad (peace
lowers the age of marriage from that psychological maturity own marriages in early teens— Islamic law made it mandatory be upon him) laid the general
the nationally recognised and depends on level of education Mahatma Gandhi was 13 and so that girls too should give their principle that the girls be
acknowledged standard of 18 and awareness and is acquirable was Kasturba, his wife—fresh. consent prior to their marriage. married away when they attain
to 15. To boot, it does so on the at certain age. Fathers of the And this law became applicable In case of pre-puberty marriage, sinne buloogh (in Arabic) or
religious ground. Indian Constitution must have to all regardless of myriad which was the norm then, the age of maturity. Maturity is a
girl was entitled to validate
Page 13commentary ISLAMIC VOICE, July 2012 13
Page 12 The ruling while setting the clock where the consensus was nearly of marriage. This will be a step emanating from the ruling are
wider term and encompasses back has introduced, may be by universal. It is in the interest of all towards adoption of laws that likely to encourage obscurantist
physical, psychological, and default, difference on the basis of that no distinctions are permitted transform people into citizens of forces out to maintain fault lines
may be educational and legal religion in a matter of civil law in matters of age and registration a state. Unfortunately, the signals and divisions. n
maturity. It could be therefore
safely assumed that Islamic law
desired that such questions could
be settled according to the climes
and times of a specific society. All
that it required was that women
should be mature enough to make
their own decision in choosing
their spouses; know their rights
and duties; should have attained
sufficient level of knowledge
and education to feel confident
in a relationship; be aware of
the biological consequences of
marriage and also may be able
to take up the responsibilities
emanating consequent to
marriage.
The fathers of the Indian
Constitution had very
appropriately designated official
age for marriage for girls and
boys in the given social and
economic context of Indian
society. It had also been quite well
known that this provision was
universally applicable as people
from the same racial and genetic
stock could not be privileged or
discriminated.
Viewed from this angle, the
Delhi High Court ruling is a step
back in time. Eighteen being
the age when an individual just
about finishes education up
to the senior secondary level,
can be said to endow a woman
with bare minimum level of
education for being a citizen
and gaining a measure of self-
confidence. If physicians are to
be believed, twenty plus is the
right age for child-bearing, hence
it would have been advisable to
rather raise the age of marriage.
Demographic pressures too
support such an enhancement of
the lower limit.advertisement ISLAMIC VOICE, July 2012
14
An Appeal to support Aasra Home for Women Government schemes for free
Aasra Home for Women, premises. It can accommodate Your contributions and Zakat coaching for UPSC /KPSC
provides shelter and training nearly 40 inmates and provide will help Aasra to continue its Free Pre-Examination coaching government of Karnataka has
to indigent women, women them training in various vocations support for women in distress. for Minority candidates of called for eligible candidates under
from broken homes, victims of and skills. Aasra also provides For more details ,contact Ms. Karnataka state for UPSC/ KPSC the scheme to take the screening
domestic violence, and women training in tailoring, embroidery, Sajida Begum at Aasra, 121-Ist Examinations scheme has been test. Last date to apply for the
in vulnerable situations. Aasra knitting and handicrafts, Cross, Kariyanapallya, Near initiated in 2010 by Directorate Scheme is July 7, 2012. Screening
has been set up by Tanzeemul computers, first aid and nursing, Lingarajapuram, Thomas of Minorities, Government of test will be held on 29th July 2012
Mohsinath Charitable Trust at health and hygiene, and also Town Post, Bangalore-560084, Karnataka. All graduates under the across various cities in Karnataka.
Lingarajpuram, in the Bangalore imparts Islamic values of family Phone: 98453-83905, 080- age of 30 are eligible. This year For more details, visit www.gokdom.
Cantonment area in a rented life, tajweed and deeniyath. 25479968. also, the Directorate of Minorities, com/upsckpsc-coaching.htmlUPDATE ISLAMIC VOICE, July 2012 15
Human Development Report 2011
Muslims at the Bottom of the Pile
By S. Tahsin Ahmed despite high growth rates, many the major highlights: The Worker Population Ratio
people are being left out of India’s High incidence of poverty: is much lower in the case of
The India Human Development growth story and inequality is on One-third of the Muslims in the Muslims as against all other
Report (HDR) 2011 brought the rise. country are living below the religious communities (51.8% in
out by the Institute of Applied It is heartening to notice that poverty line. rural sector and 45.9% in urban
Manpower Research, a research in the national HDR 2011, the The open unemployment rate sector).
body under the Planning HDI between 1999-2000 and (current daily status) is increasing The percentage of adult women’s
Commission, did not create a 2007-2008 (the latest year for for Muslims. malnutrition is increasing for
storm as could be expected - given which it can be estimated) has The ownership of assets among Muslims.
the nature of its disclosures. The increased by 21%. This Report households is the lowest in the The increase in the incidence of
Report examines whether certain provides interesting insights on case of Muslims. women suffering from anaemia
sections of the Indian society the question whether different The Labour Force Participation between 1998-99 and 2005-06
suffer from multiple deprivations is much lower for Muslims, was observed to be the highest
by investigating how different as against all other religious for Muslim women with about
castes and religious groups fare in communities (52.8% in rural six percentage points.
terms of various socio-economic Muslims are though catching up on sector and 47.4% in urban Among the major States with a
indicators. Arriving a couple of several development indicators, they sector). Page 23
years after the Sachar Committee are still at the bottom of the pile when
Report (2006), this Report is of
much significance to the Muslim
in terms of human development index.
community, in particular, since
it analyzes whether the social
indicators of excluded groups are living. In the 2010 global HDR, social groups like the SCs, STs,
converging or diverging with the India ranked 119 among 192 or Muslims, get excluded from
rest of the population. countries with a medium level the development process and
The Human Development Index HDI of 0.52. The 2010 Report whether India is experiencing
(HDI) is a composite index of recognizes that India is among inclusive growth in the true
three outcome indicators: health the top 10 movers in gross sense. The scope of this article is
and longevity, the educational domestic product (GDP) growth. restricted to the major findings in
attainment and the standard of However, there are concerns that respect of the Muslims. Here areOUR DIALOGUE by adil salahi ISLAMIC VOICE, July 2012
16
Fasting-A Duty of Obedience to Allah
(Commentary by Sayyid Qutb. Translated by Adil Salahi)
In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful
Believers, fasting is decreed for you as it was decreed for those before you, so that you may remain God-fearing! Fast a certain
number of days. But whoever of you is ill, or on a journey, shall fast instead the same number of days later on. Those who find
fasting a strain too hard to bear may compensate for it by the feeding of needy persons. He who does good of his own account does
himself good thereby; for to fast is to do yourself good, if you but knew it. It was in the month of Ramadan that the Quran was
revealed, a guidance for mankind and as a self-evident proof of that guidance, a standard to distinguish right from wrong. Hence,
whoever of you is present in that month shall fast throughout it; but he who is ill or on a journey shall fast instead the same number
of days later on. Allah desires that you have ease. He does not desire you to be afflicted with hardship. You are, however, required to
complete the necessary number of days and to extol the greatness of Allah for having guided you and to tender your thanks (to Him).
If My servants ask you about Me, I am indeed near. I answer the prayer of the suppliant when he calls to me. Let them then respond
to Me, and believe in Me, so that they may be wise. (Al-Baqarah: The Cow: 2: Verses: 183-6)
We must always realise that be, with all the duties it imposes after the Prophet’s (Pbuh) whether it is done voluntarily, account does himself good
duties of worship aim primarily on us and look at it in the light of settlement in Madinah. As a new i.e, not in compensation for thereby”. Allah follows this
at the formulation of an attitude our overall duty of obedience to duty, fasting was very hard for not fasting, or by doing more by recommending that fasting
of mind which governs the Allah in every respect. We must Muslims. Allah, therefore, gave than the minimum required. has great benefits for us. Most
behaviour of the believer, which take it as a perfect, harmonious a concession to those who find The compensation required for immediately apparent to us
develops his conscience and whole, which includes situations fasting too much of a strain and making use of this concession is is the fact that it teaches self-
helps him offer his worship in the which require strenuous effort who can do it only with great to feed one person for each day control, bearing hardships and
proper manner and adopt a good and situations of ease and difficulty. They were allowed not one does not fast, and increase making a conscious preference
standard of behaviour in life. concession, trusting the wisdom to fast, provided that they feed a it to feed two or three or more of obeying Allah, even at the
From our point of view, we must of Allah who knows best. needy person. He also made it needy people for each day. This expense of one’s own rest and
always take the religion of Islam Fasting was first made an clear to them that to feed the is the meaning of the statement- comfort.
as a whole, as Allah willed it to obligation in the second year needy is highly commendable, “He who does good of his own Page 22ISLAMIC VOICE, July 2012 17
Plan Your Time Well for Suhoor
Prophet Muhammad (Pbuh) is quoted as saying: “Make sure to have your suhoor meal, for suhoor is blessed”. It is
a concession given to us by Allah so that we are better able to undertake the task of fasting throughout the day.
Commentary by Adil Salahi said to his wife: ‘Do you have companions that they should every generation, that they need which is derived from the word
any food?’ She said: ‘No, but consider the call made by Ibn not start fasting before they are sahar which denotes the night
We fast from dawn to dusk. This I can go and seek some food Umm Maktoom as the signal absolutely certain that it is due. time immediately before dawn.
is the timing given to us by Allah for you.’ He had spent all that for starting the fast. Aisha, the Some people in later generations The Prophet explains to us that it
in the Quran when he states: You day working. As he sat, sleep Prophet’s wife, mentions that began to advise people to leave is this meal which distinguishes
may eat and drink until you can overtook him, when his wife Bilal made his call to prayer a gap of time between finishing our fasting from that of people of
distinguish the whiteness of the came back and saw him, she when it was still night time. She their meal and the time for earlier religions. It is, therefore,
day against the blackness of the said ‘deprived you are’. ‘When further quotes the Prophet as Fajr prayer. They did this as a a concession given to us by
night at dawn. Then continue it was midday the following saying: “Eat and drink until Ibn precaution against error. This Allah so that we are better able
your fast until nightfall.” day, he fell unconscious.” This Umm Maktoom makes his call Hadith and similar ones are to undertake the task of fasting
(2;187) was reported to the Prophet. throughout the day. When the
This verse, however, was not Shortly afterwards, the verse Prophet adds in the first of the
revealed at the time when the was revealed which starts with: Suhoor was introduced to clear the wrong notion last two Hadiths that this meal
duty of fasting was imposed It is made permissible for you to that once they (Muslims) go to sleep, they cannot eat in the early hours of the morning
in the second year after the have sex with your wives in the till the azan was called for the Maghrib next day. is blessed, he leaves us no doubt
Prophet’s (Pbuh) settlement night of fasting. Also revealed that we should always make
in Madinah. What Muslims (in the same verse) were sure to have it.
were required to do before the Allah’s words: You may eat and Some people find it difficult to
revelation of this verse was that drink until you distinguish the to prayer. He does not make it clear in that no such time gap is wake up at that early time in
they were allowed to eat, drink whiteness of the day against the until the break of dawn.” This required for any reason. Indeed, order to have a meal. They say
and have sex with their wives at blackness of the night. Hadith is related by Al-Bukhari the Prophet has taught us to take that they prefer to go without
night, until they have prayed Isha Prophet taught his companions and more than one version of it our meal of Suhoor, i.e. the meal it rather than interrupt their
and slept. When they have slept, to exercise it to the full, making is related by Muslim. Al Bukhari we eat before we begin fasting, sleep. Be that as it may, they
no matter how early at night they sure to have a meal shortly further quotes a statement added as late as possible. Anas quotes lose a great deal of blessings
did so, they were not allowed to before the beginning of the day by one of the reporters of this the Prophet as saying: “Make by sleeping through that time.
have anything to eat or drink of fasting. At the time of the Hadith which states: “The gap sure to have your suhoor meal, They will have to wake up
until sunset of the following Prophet, two of his companions between the two calls to prayer for suhoor is blessed.: Another shortly afterwards anyway in
day. Al-Bukhari relates on the made the call to prayer at dawn, made by them was no more than Hadith related by Muslim on order to offer their Fajr prayers.
authority of Al Baraa: “If a man Bilal and Ibn Umm Maktoom. what it took the one to come the authority of Amr ibn Al-Aas If they wake up for suhoor, they
from among the companions of Bilal was a former Abyssinian down and the other to go up.” quotes the Prophet as saying: make sure of praying Fajr at the
Muhammad (Pbuh) was fasting slave who had a very melodious There used to be a time gap of “The difference between our beginning of its time which is
and it was time to end the fast, voice. Ibn Umm Maktoom was reciting around 50 verses of fasting and that of the people of far more preferable. Moreover,
but he slept before he broke a blind man whose incident with Quran between the time Prophet earlier revelations is the suhoor if they allow themselves half an
his fast, he was not allowed to the Prophet is related in Surah finished eating suhoor and doing meals.” These two Hadiths hour extra, they can have a short
eat for the rest of that night, or 80. Each one of them made the Fajr Prayers. stress the importance of making stint of night worship which is
during the following day until call to prayer at dawn, with We note that the gap between good preparations for a day always one of the best rewarded
the evening. Qais ibn Sirmah, Bilal making it first, then Ibn the two calls to prayer was not of fasting by having a meal acts of worship. It is far more
a man from the Ansar, was Umm Maktoom. In order not to more than a few minutes. Yet immediately before it is time so in Ramadan, when every
fasting. When it was time to leave any room for confusion, the Prophet was keen to tell his to begin the fast. This meal is good action is rewarded much
end his fast, he came home and the Prophet mentioned to his companions, and the Muslims in given a distinctive name suhoor, Page 22soul talk ISLAMIC VOICE, July 2012
18
Azaan -
A Sublime Musical Experience
From the Azaan, flows wisdom which waters spiritually parched souls. It was the month of
Ramadan and when the the Azaan came through, I felt like I was in a fairy land.
By Indira Satyanarayan ental Christians, but one of the claimed in the right ear of the even while conducting business, seminar organised by Secular Ac-
Emigrants had a dream. A man newly born child which is Sun- performing mundane duties, one tivists Watch at the Y.B.Chavan
During the fasting month of wearing a green cloak told him nat. should not let materialistic con- Auditorium had made a poignant
Ramadan, my friend Zaheer in the dream that the best way Azaan is recited five times in cerns take over the spiritual call- comment which I will always re-
Memon ( NCP National of summoning people to prayer a day. ‘’ Why Five times in a ing of remembering God. member. The Justice said that as
secretary- Advocate Majid was to have a man with a ‘’Res- day’’, I ask. My question ap- One of the remarkable aspects a child, he had seen his father re-
Memon’s son) gave me the book, onant Voice’’ call the people pears naive to my friend, Zaheer of Karen Armstrong’s biography cite the Gayatri Mantra at dawn,
‘’Muhammad- A Biography of loudly with ‘’Allahu Akbar!’’( Memon. ‘’You have to remem- of Muhammad is that she has at the same time from a nearby
the Prophet,” to read, with the God is great), three times, to ber God throughout the Day,’’ is portrayed him as both Prophet mosque, the Azaan would burst
condition, ‘’ Be sure to return the remind the Muslims that God is the profound answer. and Poet. The book aroused my out. While the Gayatri Mantra
book to me....it is my wedding greater than any other good. The Shattering the grim silence of the curiosity to experience the mu- was in Sanskrit, the Azaan was
present. ‘’ summons would continue thus: early dawn, theAzaan acts as a sic of the Azaan. I switched on in Arabic. The language of the
One of the gems delineated in the ‘’ I bear witness that there is no wake-up call exhorting Muslims the speaker in my computer and prayers was different, but the
book by the author, Karen Arm- God but Allah, I bear witness that, ‘’ prayer is better than sleep went to the google site search- substance was the same – MAN
strong- a Roman Catholic Nun that Muhammad is the Apostle ‘’ reminding them to get ready to ing forAzaan. It was the month REACHING OUT TO GOD.
is the mystic, musical power of of God. Come to Prayer. Come perform their worldly duties. of Ramadan And Lo! When the While listening to the Azaan, I
the Azaan, which had a poignant to Prayer. Come to Divine Ser- Once I had forgotten to set the Azaan came through, I felt like I realized that there are no musi-
effect on me. Azaan to Muslims vice. Come to Divine Service, alarm clock to wake me up at was in a fairy land . The Azaan cal instruments used, but still
is a call for prayer recited at an Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar. 5.30 in the morning . The Azaan was from a mosque in Turkey the music was so soothing and
appointed time with certain pre- Prophet Muhammad liked the however acted as an alarm and called by Hafiz Mustafa Ozkan. spiritually elevating. I discov-
scribed words. Karen Armstrong idea and appointed Bilal, Abu woke me up. While in Jeddah It dawned upon me then that the ered a delightful blend of Raag,
in her biography of the Prophet, Bakr’s freedman as the person in shopping in the busy street of Azaan was a poignant musical Taal, and Bhava in the Azaan.
‘’Provides us with an accurate charge of this assignment. Every Balad in mid-afternoon, I saw appeal from one individual soul The Azaan’s spiritual depth,
and profound understanding of morning Hazrat Bilal ,the black shops being shut for Salaat to the soul of humanity, asking the poetry and verbal music in
Islam and the people who ad- Muslim, who had a loud, awe- (prayers) when business was at them to turn to God for succour it compels one to respond to its
here to it ‘’ she explains that in some voice used to climb up to its peak. ‘’ Won’t this amount and to partake of the spiritual sublime message of SURREN-
April 623, about seven months the top of the tallest house near to loss of profit, ‘’ I had asked . feast. DER to God.
after the Hijra (the emigration the mosque and sit on the roof The reply I got from the owner A few years ago, Justice Sri (The writer can be reached at in-
of the Prophet and his followers top, waiting for the first rays of of a jewellery shop was that Krishna, while speaking at a dira1953@rediffmail.com)
to the city of Madina), Muham- the dawn to appear. When he
mad built a Mosque in Madina saw the rays, he used to stretch
in which there was a large court- out his arms , face the Kabaah
yard for formal prayers. At first, and before beginning the Call,
people used to turn up for prayers would say , ‘’O, God I praise
without summons, but this was Thee and ask Thy Help for
obviously unsatisfactory as ev- Quraysh that they may accept
erybody turned up at different Thy religion. ‘’
times. Councils were held for the It is believed that the Muezzin
formulation of the proper Prayer will have great rewards on the
Call. Muhammad first thought of Day of Resurrection. Muslims
using a ram’s horn, like the Jews also believe that besides prayer
or a wooden clapper, like the ori- times, the Azaanshould be pro-
Page 19
Compensation for not Fasting ...
poor person is operative in this year and breast-feeding the year
case. For each day of Ramadan, after that. She is thus in a similar
he should give every poor person situation to a person who is
two meals of the average type chronically ill. In all these cases,
he has in his home normally. compensation may be offered
He may, if he so wishes, give by way of feeding a poor person
the poor person the cost of that for one day (two meals) in place
meal in cash, according to a of each missed day of fasting. In
number of eminent scholars. this condition which my reader
The persons to whom this has put to me, this last method
opinion remains valid are: 1) a of compensation does not apply.
very old man or woman who can When he has this pain, which he
no longer bear the difficulty of says he has two or three times
fasting from dawn to dusk; 2) a each month, he may go ahead
person who is chronically ill and and have his pain killer tablet.
has little hope of recovery; and What he is required to do is to
3) a woman who is pregnant or fast one day in compensation
breast-feeding, particularly one for each day of non-fasting in
who finds herself pregnant this Ramadan.
year, breast-feeding next year, Our Dialogue ( Source : Arab
pregnant again the following News - Jeddah )You can also read
