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KUWAIT TO BUILD MOSQUE IN GUYANA
- By Raymond Chickrie
- Published 05/4/2013
Zakaat House of Kuwait, which for decades has been funding social programs such as the orphanage programmes and other philanthropic works through the Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana (CIOG), to assist the poor and needy in Guyana, has agreed to fund the expansion and modernization of a mosque in Meten-meer-Zorg, small rural community in this South American country, which will be named, Masjid al Kuwait.
Zakaat House, a non- governmental organisation in Kuwait has accepted the CIOG’s proposal to fund the “MASJID AL KUWAIT.” The project includes the modernization and expansion of the present mosque, addition of a library, a female prayer hall, an auditorium, four guest rooms, a kitchen and dining facilities, according to the CIOG.
“The present Masjid cannot accommodate the worshippers which have increased, especially in the female section and which does not have the necessary facilities to cater for the needs of the community. The new Masjid will accommodate more than five-hundred (500) worshippers at any time, and will complement the existing buildings housing the Meten-meer-Zorg Islamic Academy,” according to the press statement.
Construction of the “state-of-the – art Masjid” is due to started last Saturday during a turning of the sod event. After it’s complete the CIOG says, “the central mosque serving the communities at West Coast Demerara and East Bank Essequibo.”
Back in 2011, Zakaat House funded the building of a school to accommodate 300 plus students at the same Meten- Meer- Zorg Islamic Academy. And more recently, donated a bus to transport students to school in Guyana.
According to the President of the CIOG, Fazeel Ferouz, Kuwait continues to make a difference in the lives of poor children by allowing them access to education, hence allowing them an opportunity to maximize their potential, with the help of donations from supporters such as Zakaat House, government and people of Kuwait, the International Islamic Charitable Organisation, and the Ministry of Awqaf.
The CIOG has been in existence for 35 years and supports the socio-economic development of Muslims in Guyana through their support of 137 mosques throughout Guyana, their Zakaat programme, education, dawah, healthcare, disaster relief and women empowerment. Also, the CIOG aid needy non-Muslims and is at the forefront of disaster relief regardless or religious beliefs, which has brought great admiration of the Organisation locally and internationally.
Guyana and Kuwait established diplomatic ties in 1995 and are both members of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). Kuwait is today Guyana’s strongest partner in the Arab world. No other Gulf country is so heavily involved in the socio-economic development of Muslims in Guyana like Kuwait.
Ties between the two countries are very strong. Guyana has an embassy in Kuwait and in 2010 Kuwaiti’s Prime Minister, Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah visited Guyana. Kuwait is currently funding the construction of a four-lane highway in Guyana.
Muslims make up about 13 percent of Guyana’s population and Islam came to Guyana when African Muslims were brought to the former British and Dutch colony during the 18th century from West Africa and later as indentured immigrants from India, Afghanistan and what is now Pakistan.
Zakaat House, a non- governmental organisation in Kuwait has accepted the CIOG’s proposal to fund the “MASJID AL KUWAIT.” The project includes the modernization and expansion of the present mosque, addition of a library, a female prayer hall, an auditorium, four guest rooms, a kitchen and dining facilities, according to the CIOG.
“The present Masjid cannot accommodate the worshippers which have increased, especially in the female section and which does not have the necessary facilities to cater for the needs of the community. The new Masjid will accommodate more than five-hundred (500) worshippers at any time, and will complement the existing buildings housing the Meten-meer-Zorg Islamic Academy,” according to the press statement.
Construction of the “state-of-the – art Masjid” is due to started last Saturday during a turning of the sod event. After it’s complete the CIOG says, “the central mosque serving the communities at West Coast Demerara and East Bank Essequibo.”
Back in 2011, Zakaat House funded the building of a school to accommodate 300 plus students at the same Meten- Meer- Zorg Islamic Academy. And more recently, donated a bus to transport students to school in Guyana.
According to the President of the CIOG, Fazeel Ferouz, Kuwait continues to make a difference in the lives of poor children by allowing them access to education, hence allowing them an opportunity to maximize their potential, with the help of donations from supporters such as Zakaat House, government and people of Kuwait, the International Islamic Charitable Organisation, and the Ministry of Awqaf.
The CIOG has been in existence for 35 years and supports the socio-economic development of Muslims in Guyana through their support of 137 mosques throughout Guyana, their Zakaat programme, education, dawah, healthcare, disaster relief and women empowerment. Also, the CIOG aid needy non-Muslims and is at the forefront of disaster relief regardless or religious beliefs, which has brought great admiration of the Organisation locally and internationally.
Guyana and Kuwait established diplomatic ties in 1995 and are both members of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). Kuwait is today Guyana’s strongest partner in the Arab world. No other Gulf country is so heavily involved in the socio-economic development of Muslims in Guyana like Kuwait.
Ties between the two countries are very strong. Guyana has an embassy in Kuwait and in 2010 Kuwaiti’s Prime Minister, Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah visited Guyana. Kuwait is currently funding the construction of a four-lane highway in Guyana.
Muslims make up about 13 percent of Guyana’s population and Islam came to Guyana when African Muslims were brought to the former British and Dutch colony during the 18th century from West Africa and later as indentured immigrants from India, Afghanistan and what is now Pakistan.
TRINIDAD'S PRINT MEDIA RECKLESS AND FECKLESS PURSUIT OF BIAS
- By Alim Ali
- Published 03/28/2013
The print media in Trinidad and Tobago are groaning about its critics (both in and out of government) calling out their apparent bias in reporting. There seems to be no standard of conduct to which this segment of the media measures itself nor does it seem that its churlish reaction to its critics have any limits to which it would not stoop to defend itself. Armed with its constitutional right of "FREEDOM OF THE PRESS", they squeal oppression or suppression of the press each time their bias is pointed out. Lately the gender of the 
alleged offending journalist was placed as a shield to protect against criticism of the text, tone and style of reporting. Those who are the survivors of the print media's alleged bias are deemed not to have the right to point out the prejudice of the reporting. The survivors silence is deemed to be protective of the "FREEDOM OF THE PRESS" but the collective voice of protest against the prejudiced reporting is not seen as upholding the constitutional right of "FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION". Shrill headlines speaks of suppression of its rights (no right is absolute) follows but the opportunity to reflect upon the criticism and ensure it is fulling its RESPONSIBILITY is never taken.
alleged offending journalist was placed as a shield to protect against criticism of the text, tone and style of reporting. Those who are the survivors of the print media's alleged bias are deemed not to have the right to point out the prejudice of the reporting. The survivors silence is deemed to be protective of the "FREEDOM OF THE PRESS" but the collective voice of protest against the prejudiced reporting is not seen as upholding the constitutional right of "FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION". Shrill headlines speaks of suppression of its rights (no right is absolute) follows but the opportunity to reflect upon the criticism and ensure it is fulling its RESPONSIBILITY is never taken.In this piece veteran journalist Jai Parasram comments on the situation:
Commentary: Let's not lose focus on the role of media in a democracy
Guyana donation builds village in Pakistan
- By Raymond Chickrie
- Published 03/19/2013
Islamabad—The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) last week delivered 100 housing units, a school, a health center and a mosque to the people of the Dera Gazi Khan village in Multan, Punjab Province which was ravaged by floods two years ago of which Guyana contributed US 30,000 dollars.
The handover ceremony was held for the D. G. Khan villagers, affected by the disastrous floods that hit Pakistan in the summer of 2010. The ceremony was attended by representatives of OIC and Pakistan government, says an OIC report.
Guyana’s contributed US 30,000 to the flood stricken people of Multan, Pakistan in August 2010 through the OIC’s donor conference. This money went into rebuilding D.G. Khan Village. Last week when Cameroon’s OIC Ambassador Mr. Tijani handed over the project, he tanked Guyana for its contribution in the building the village. The D. G. Khan villagers were among the worst victims of the disastrous floods that hit Pakistan in July 2010. The project was launched by the OIC Secretary Dr. Ekmeleddin Ihsanoglu, who had announced OIC pledges at the Donors' Conference for the benefit of the victims of the Pakistan floods.
The OIC thanked Cameron, whose permanent representative to the OIC, Ambassador Tijani, handed over the keys to the villagers, for contributing the largest share towards the financing of the project.
Multan is a historical city with deep rooted culture that was once the crossroads of many civilizations. The City of Sufis or City of Saints and Madinat-ul-Auliya because of the large number of shrines and Sufi saints from the city. The city is blanketed with bazaars, mosques, shrines and ornate tombs.
Guyanese generosity to Pakistan dates back to 1947 when Guyana was a British Colony. The Guyana Sadr Anjuman under the leadership of Mr. R. B. Gajraj raised 936 British Guiana dollars for refugees who pored into Pakistan.
The handover ceremony was held for the D. G. Khan villagers, affected by the disastrous floods that hit Pakistan in the summer of 2010. The ceremony was attended by representatives of OIC and Pakistan government, says an OIC report.
Guyana’s contributed US 30,000 to the flood stricken people of Multan, Pakistan in August 2010 through the OIC’s donor conference. This money went into rebuilding D.G. Khan Village. Last week when Cameroon’s OIC Ambassador Mr. Tijani handed over the project, he tanked Guyana for its contribution in the building the village. The D. G. Khan villagers were among the worst victims of the disastrous floods that hit Pakistan in July 2010. The project was launched by the OIC Secretary Dr. Ekmeleddin Ihsanoglu, who had announced OIC pledges at the Donors' Conference for the benefit of the victims of the Pakistan floods.
The OIC thanked Cameron, whose permanent representative to the OIC, Ambassador Tijani, handed over the keys to the villagers, for contributing the largest share towards the financing of the project.
Multan is a historical city with deep rooted culture that was once the crossroads of many civilizations. The City of Sufis or City of Saints and Madinat-ul-Auliya because of the large number of shrines and Sufi saints from the city. The city is blanketed with bazaars, mosques, shrines and ornate tombs.
Guyanese generosity to Pakistan dates back to 1947 when Guyana was a British Colony. The Guyana Sadr Anjuman under the leadership of Mr. R. B. Gajraj raised 936 British Guiana dollars for refugees who pored into Pakistan.
A Sincere Heart
- By Dr. Waffie Mohammed
- Published 03/19/2013
Allah tells us in Surah Hujuraat;
The desert Arabs say, “We believe”. Say, “Ye have no faith; but ye (only) say, 'We have submitted our wills to Allah, for not yet has faith entered your hearts. But if ye obey Allah and His Messenger, He will not belittle aught of your deeds: for Allah is Oft-forgiving, Most Merciful. (49:14)
It is easy to say something with the tongue, whether it is meant or not. Islam doesn’t want that from us. Instead our total personality must be in complete submission to Allah and only then will you be a true believer.
Allah says about some people;
In their hearts is a disease; and Allah has increased their disease: (2:10)
Why is this? Because they say they believe but do so for some ulterior motive. Those are not from amongst the true believers. Instead we must concentrate on true submission to Allah from our heart. As Prophet Muhammad (pboh) is reported “there is a piece of flesh in the body if it becomes good (reformed) the whole body becomes good but if it gets spoiled, the whole body gets spoiled – and that is the heart” (Bukhari).
Sometimes we hear people say ‘that person doesn’t have heart’. It means that the person being described doesn’t have love and compassion etc. These qualities don’t come from the tongue. True love comes from the heart. This is why Islam emphasises that we bring the faith into our hearts.
Look at what Allah did when He wanted Prophet Muhammad (pboh) to begin preaching the Deen. He caused Jibrael to impress the Qur’an in the heart of Prophet Muhammad (pboh) on the night of the first revelation. So when he spoke to the people it was not only coming from his mouth but his heart as well.
Culture and cultivate your heart to have true submission and God consciousness and only then you would have really achieved something. If you have Allah in your heart and you are submitting to Him only then will you find peace and tranquillity. This is possibly why He says
“Those who believe, and whose hearts find satisfaction in the remembrance of Allah; for, without doubt; in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find satisfaction.” (13:28)
You can have everything of this world but have no peace of mind. When you culture and nurture your heart to have true submission to Allah you will find peace and contentment. And you will also get closer and closer to your Lord. If you have no peace and contentment then something is wrong.
Understand also that when you think of, or do evil, it will impact upon your heart. Even if no one is aware of it you are putting stains on your heart. We need to all the time keep looking at our hearts and work upon it to ensure that we have sincerity and purity.
And this is where our zikir and meditation can help. By engaging in spiritual mediation you will know if you are engaging in something wrong; if so, you will feel a ‘heavy heart’. And if you are engaged in good or surrounded with good you will feel a difference in your heart. Insha Allah your heart will aid in guiding you.
Our mission is to make our heart bright and shinning and full of sincerity and purity; else we are just like the Bedouins who Allah spoke of.
Keep your heart clean and pure and strong in Allah’s remembrance and let Him take care of our affairs insha Allah.
Transcript of discourse delivered by
Maulana Dr. Waffie Mohammed
http://drwaffie.blogspot.com
The video presentation of this discourse can be accessed at
Guyana and Palestine establish diplomatic ties at ambassadorial level
- By Raymond Chickrie
- Published 02/22/2013
Guyana, a member of the United Nations Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian people since 1975, yesterday became the first CARICOM country to establish diplomatic relationship with the State of Palestine at the ambassadorial level, which took place at the UN in New York.
Palestinian Permanent Observer to the United Nations, Riyadh Mansour and the Permanent Representative of Guyana to the UN, George Talbot signed a communiqué establishing diplomatic ties between their two countries in which they agreed to adhere and commitment to the UN Charter and International law; promotion of peace and security and respect for sovereignty and independence, non – interference in their internal affairs according to Kuwait News Agency.
Guyana historically has backed and lobbied for Palestinian state and was home to three Arab embassies- Libya, Iraq and Egypt.
A few weeks ago in Egypt while attending an Organisation of Islamic (OIC) heads of government summit, Guyana’s Foreign Minister, Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett’s said-
“As the first Caribbean Community (Caricom) country to recognize Palestine as a sovereign state based on its 1967 borders, and as a member of the United Nations Committee on the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian people, Guyana will continue to demonstrate support for peace that is sustained at all levels and will continue to work with the international community in all efforts that will galvanise a peaceful end to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict,” said the minister.
She added, “The government of Guyana, as it has resolutely done over the years, will continue to reiterate its unwavering support to the Palestinian people in their just struggle for their inalienable rights including the right of a homeland of their own.”
Palestinian Permanent Observer to the United Nations, Riyadh Mansour and the Permanent Representative of Guyana to the UN, George Talbot signed a communiqué establishing diplomatic ties between their two countries in which they agreed to adhere and commitment to the UN Charter and International law; promotion of peace and security and respect for sovereignty and independence, non – interference in their internal affairs according to Kuwait News Agency.
Guyana historically has backed and lobbied for Palestinian state and was home to three Arab embassies- Libya, Iraq and Egypt.
A few weeks ago in Egypt while attending an Organisation of Islamic (OIC) heads of government summit, Guyana’s Foreign Minister, Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett’s said-
“As the first Caribbean Community (Caricom) country to recognize Palestine as a sovereign state based on its 1967 borders, and as a member of the United Nations Committee on the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian people, Guyana will continue to demonstrate support for peace that is sustained at all levels and will continue to work with the international community in all efforts that will galvanise a peaceful end to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict,” said the minister.
She added, “The government of Guyana, as it has resolutely done over the years, will continue to reiterate its unwavering support to the Palestinian people in their just struggle for their inalienable rights including the right of a homeland of their own.”
Double Blessings
- By Dr. Waffie Mohammed
- Published 02/22/2013
Allah tells us in the Qur’an about the status of Prophet Muhammad (saws) regarding his relationship with us. He says in Surah Imran;
Allah did confer a great favour on the believers when He sent among them an apostle from among themselves. (3:164)
Allah says that Prophet , especially for the believers, is a great favour. You will understand that before his coming no Messenger taught their followers La Ilaha Illallah Muhammadur Rasulullah. Only with Prophet Muhammad coming was the declaration of faith completed.
When we look at the mission he was designated to perform it was indeed something special. On one hand he is the one whom all the previous Messengers preached of his coming. Besides that it was only with his coming that the direct connection between the creature and The Creator was established, on the night of the Mir’aj. So his total personality is a favour.
Because his status is special and he is highly favoured, anyone who follows him will naturally be in a higher status than those who just believe in the oneness of Allah . Possibly because of this Allah is Surah Hadid
O ye that believe! Fear Allah, and believe in His Messenger, and He will bestow on you a double portion of His mercy: He will provide for you a light by which ye shall walk (straight In your Path), and He will forgive you (your past): for Allah is Oft- forgiving, Most Merciful. (57:28)
Anyone of who tries their best to believe in Allah with full faith and conviction and adheres to the Sunnah of Prophet Allah has given the assurance of a twofold amount of blessings and in addition to that Allah will provide us with a light for guidance.
And we can see this in our own lives at times. In some situations we are saved from accidents etc. How is this possible? Your Lord has not left your affairs up to you alone. Allah will not make your effort go in vain.
Understand and feel confident that we belong to the ummah of Prophet Muhammad . The Companionship is a plus to us and in addition if we take path in good Allah will make it easy for us and bless us.
Always be thankful to your lord for joining us in the ummah of His Beloved , because Allah conferred a great favour on him and if we join in his companionship we too would benefit from that favour.
Continue the struggle to get closer to Allah and His Habeeb and insha Allah we will get more blessings from our Lord and a brighter light to aid in guiding us. May Allah bless us and take care of our affairs.
Allah did confer a great favour on the believers when He sent among them an apostle from among themselves. (3:164)
Allah says that Prophet , especially for the believers, is a great favour. You will understand that before his coming no Messenger taught their followers La Ilaha Illallah Muhammadur Rasulullah. Only with Prophet Muhammad coming was the declaration of faith completed.
When we look at the mission he was designated to perform it was indeed something special. On one hand he is the one whom all the previous Messengers preached of his coming. Besides that it was only with his coming that the direct connection between the creature and The Creator was established, on the night of the Mir’aj. So his total personality is a favour.
Because his status is special and he is highly favoured, anyone who follows him will naturally be in a higher status than those who just believe in the oneness of Allah . Possibly because of this Allah is Surah Hadid
O ye that believe! Fear Allah, and believe in His Messenger, and He will bestow on you a double portion of His mercy: He will provide for you a light by which ye shall walk (straight In your Path), and He will forgive you (your past): for Allah is Oft- forgiving, Most Merciful. (57:28)
Anyone of who tries their best to believe in Allah with full faith and conviction and adheres to the Sunnah of Prophet Allah has given the assurance of a twofold amount of blessings and in addition to that Allah will provide us with a light for guidance.
And we can see this in our own lives at times. In some situations we are saved from accidents etc. How is this possible? Your Lord has not left your affairs up to you alone. Allah will not make your effort go in vain.
Understand and feel confident that we belong to the ummah of Prophet Muhammad . The Companionship is a plus to us and in addition if we take path in good Allah will make it easy for us and bless us.
Always be thankful to your lord for joining us in the ummah of His Beloved , because Allah conferred a great favour on him and if we join in his companionship we too would benefit from that favour.
Continue the struggle to get closer to Allah and His Habeeb and insha Allah we will get more blessings from our Lord and a brighter light to aid in guiding us. May Allah bless us and take care of our affairs.
Success through pray
- By Dr. Waffie Mohammed
- Published 02/5/2013
In the adhan we say Hayyaa alal falaah. Translated, it means come to success. What does success this imply? And how can observing the salaat (pray) lead to success?
We know salaat to be an institution and one of the pillars of Islam. Salaat is very important to a believer because Prophet Muhammad (s) is reported to have said ‘the difference between us and them (the hypocrites) is prayer’.
Allah says in surah Ankabut;
and establish regular prayer: for prayer restrains from shameful and unjust deeds; and remembrance of Allah is the greatest (thing in life) without doubt. (29:45)
If you pray your salaat properly, you will get that internal guidance to become a better person. For example when the first prohibition alcohol was revealed Allah said;
O you who believe! Approach not prayers with a mind befogged, until you can understand all that you say. (4:43)
If a person is intoxicated it will take some time for him to get sober. Thus at the time when this ayat was revealed if the believers wanted to pray salaat they would have had to stay away from alcohol. And this is just one impact which salaat had in moulding and culturing the lives of believers.
And because the institution of salaat has this impact on us Satan would always try to take the people away from salaat. For example once it was brought to Prophet Muhammad’s attention that a man had slept the night till morning (after sunrise). Prophet said, “He is a man in whose ears (or ear) Satan had urinated”.
Allah says about the successful ones;
By the soul, and the proportion and order given to it; and its Enlightenment As to its wrong and its right; - truly he succeeds that purifies it; (91:7-9)
In order to attain success we must strive for Tazkiyah nafs; purification our nafs. Culture it to the point where our thoughts and action would not bring about any black sports on our soul. And salaat helps in keeping away black spots and at the same time polishes the soul to keep it bright and shinning.
The successful ones are those who strive to keep the light of the ruh (soul) shining and bright so that it can permeate throughout the entire personality. If you stay firm on your daily salaat you will definitely see a change on your life.
If you want to beautify your faith make sure you have the fundamentals down. And everyone can perform salaat. You don’t need to be a scholar and there are no restrictions in terms of place. The whole earth is a musala, except the unclean place.
Give importance to and be steadfast in performing it. Allah made it convenient for us. A lot of people can’t understand why they have problems in their lives. Salaat is an institution where we can meet our Lord and talk to Him and beg of Him.
And we must understand how fortunate we truly are because we are the only ummah to uphold salaat even though all the Messengers use to pray. Make use of it and do not treat it as a burden. You think if you set aside time during the day and night to praise and beg your Lord that He would forsake you and let you down?
Resolve to yourself that you won’t miss any of the fard (compulsory) salaat. Some people criticize others who just concentrate and pray the fard rakaats alone. The important thing is that at least they are praying.
Humble yourself and do not be like Satan who refused to submit to Allah’s command. May Allah bless us and guide us and always enable us to uphold this blessed institution of salaat, insha Allah (God willing).
We know salaat to be an institution and one of the pillars of Islam. Salaat is very important to a believer because Prophet Muhammad (s) is reported to have said ‘the difference between us and them (the hypocrites) is prayer’.
Allah says in surah Ankabut;
and establish regular prayer: for prayer restrains from shameful and unjust deeds; and remembrance of Allah is the greatest (thing in life) without doubt. (29:45)
If you pray your salaat properly, you will get that internal guidance to become a better person. For example when the first prohibition alcohol was revealed Allah said;
O you who believe! Approach not prayers with a mind befogged, until you can understand all that you say. (4:43)
If a person is intoxicated it will take some time for him to get sober. Thus at the time when this ayat was revealed if the believers wanted to pray salaat they would have had to stay away from alcohol. And this is just one impact which salaat had in moulding and culturing the lives of believers.
And because the institution of salaat has this impact on us Satan would always try to take the people away from salaat. For example once it was brought to Prophet Muhammad’s attention that a man had slept the night till morning (after sunrise). Prophet said, “He is a man in whose ears (or ear) Satan had urinated”.
Allah says about the successful ones;
By the soul, and the proportion and order given to it; and its Enlightenment As to its wrong and its right; - truly he succeeds that purifies it; (91:7-9)
In order to attain success we must strive for Tazkiyah nafs; purification our nafs. Culture it to the point where our thoughts and action would not bring about any black sports on our soul. And salaat helps in keeping away black spots and at the same time polishes the soul to keep it bright and shinning.
The successful ones are those who strive to keep the light of the ruh (soul) shining and bright so that it can permeate throughout the entire personality. If you stay firm on your daily salaat you will definitely see a change on your life.
If you want to beautify your faith make sure you have the fundamentals down. And everyone can perform salaat. You don’t need to be a scholar and there are no restrictions in terms of place. The whole earth is a musala, except the unclean place.
Give importance to and be steadfast in performing it. Allah made it convenient for us. A lot of people can’t understand why they have problems in their lives. Salaat is an institution where we can meet our Lord and talk to Him and beg of Him.
And we must understand how fortunate we truly are because we are the only ummah to uphold salaat even though all the Messengers use to pray. Make use of it and do not treat it as a burden. You think if you set aside time during the day and night to praise and beg your Lord that He would forsake you and let you down?
Resolve to yourself that you won’t miss any of the fard (compulsory) salaat. Some people criticize others who just concentrate and pray the fard rakaats alone. The important thing is that at least they are praying.
Humble yourself and do not be like Satan who refused to submit to Allah’s command. May Allah bless us and guide us and always enable us to uphold this blessed institution of salaat, insha Allah (God willing).
The impact of the Quran
- By Dr. Waffie Mohammed
- Published 01/22/2013
Allah begins the message of the Holy Qur’an, after Surah Fatiha;
This is the Book; in it is guidance sure, without doubt, to those who fear Allah. Who believe in the unseen, are steadfast in prayer, and spend out of what we have provided for them; and who believe in the Revelation sent to thee, and sent before thy time, and (in their hearts) have the assurance of the Hereafter. They are on (true) guidance, from their Lord, and it is these who will prosper. (2:1-5)
The Qur’an will only impact on those people who are Al Mutaqeen; i.e. those who believe in the existence of Almighty God and the Unseen Verities. Amongst us there are so many things that can’t be seen. For example you cannot see someone’s strength but you know it exists. There are so many things that are in existence but their nature is intangible.
If you really want to benefit from the Qur’an you have to believe that it came from a Personality Who we cannot see. If you don’t believe that you will have a problem. And in addition you can beautify it by establishing your salaat, paying the zakaat etc. Only then will the Qur’an have an impact on you; otherwise it’ll be just another book for you.
I’m now realising that whenever people say disrespectful things about the Qur’an it comes back to the ayat as to those who reject faith, it is the same to them whether thou warn them or do not warn them. they will not believe: hence they will have no reverence for the Qur’an. To them it’s just another Book.
If it was just another Book why did Allah say if He were to reveal it on the mountain the mountain would crumble to dust?
So try your best to appreciate this great Book because, at the beginning Allah says it is guidance for those who believe. The more you try to get closer to Allah and appreciate the Qur’an, the softer your heart will become.
We have lots of work to do as compared to the non-believers; because to them it doesn’t matter. We know that Allah is with us when we remember Him. And we are reciting His words; won’t it benefit you?
When you hear disrespectful things being said about Islam; be careful and don’t get dangerously emotional, because Satan will use your emotions to divert you. We have to be guarded when these things come up and react in an appropriate manner that will bring about a positive result of our personality and the general outlook of Islam.
Be careful as Muslims are generally under the microscope. Beg Allah for guidance especially in times of emotional unrest.
Sympathize with those individuals who say unfortunate things because they are blind to the facts. They won’t appreciate and understand. Our resolve should be not to be like them; educate yourself and increase your faith in Allah .
May Allah guide us and protect us and help us to deal with those who are misguided in a manner that would be pleasing with Allah .
This is the Book; in it is guidance sure, without doubt, to those who fear Allah. Who believe in the unseen, are steadfast in prayer, and spend out of what we have provided for them; and who believe in the Revelation sent to thee, and sent before thy time, and (in their hearts) have the assurance of the Hereafter. They are on (true) guidance, from their Lord, and it is these who will prosper. (2:1-5)
The Qur’an will only impact on those people who are Al Mutaqeen; i.e. those who believe in the existence of Almighty God and the Unseen Verities. Amongst us there are so many things that can’t be seen. For example you cannot see someone’s strength but you know it exists. There are so many things that are in existence but their nature is intangible.
If you really want to benefit from the Qur’an you have to believe that it came from a Personality Who we cannot see. If you don’t believe that you will have a problem. And in addition you can beautify it by establishing your salaat, paying the zakaat etc. Only then will the Qur’an have an impact on you; otherwise it’ll be just another book for you.
I’m now realising that whenever people say disrespectful things about the Qur’an it comes back to the ayat as to those who reject faith, it is the same to them whether thou warn them or do not warn them. they will not believe: hence they will have no reverence for the Qur’an. To them it’s just another Book.
If it was just another Book why did Allah say if He were to reveal it on the mountain the mountain would crumble to dust?
So try your best to appreciate this great Book because, at the beginning Allah says it is guidance for those who believe. The more you try to get closer to Allah and appreciate the Qur’an, the softer your heart will become.
We have lots of work to do as compared to the non-believers; because to them it doesn’t matter. We know that Allah is with us when we remember Him. And we are reciting His words; won’t it benefit you?
When you hear disrespectful things being said about Islam; be careful and don’t get dangerously emotional, because Satan will use your emotions to divert you. We have to be guarded when these things come up and react in an appropriate manner that will bring about a positive result of our personality and the general outlook of Islam.
Be careful as Muslims are generally under the microscope. Beg Allah for guidance especially in times of emotional unrest.
Sympathize with those individuals who say unfortunate things because they are blind to the facts. They won’t appreciate and understand. Our resolve should be not to be like them; educate yourself and increase your faith in Allah .
May Allah guide us and protect us and help us to deal with those who are misguided in a manner that would be pleasing with Allah .
Islamic Block seeks stronger economic cooperation with Guyana and Suriname during upcoming visit of OIC Secretary General
- By Raymond Chickrie
- Published 01/5/2013
After two decades of being members of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), Guyana and Suriname will receive official visits from OIC Secretary General, Dr. Ekmeleddin Ishanoglu, from February 19 to 23, according to OIC and Surinamese officials at the United Nations in New York and officials in Paramaribo.
According to the OIC Mission to the UN, Dr. Ishanoglu will seek stronger economic cooperation between the OIC and Guyana and Suriname.
A statement release from the OIC on the upcoming visit, reads, "Secretary General Ekmeleddin Ihsanoglu pays special importance to bringing Guyana and Suriname into the fold of cooperation under the OIC projects, particularly in the field of economic development. Therefore, he has been encouraging the two countries to sign and ratify the new OIC Charter and various agreements, particularly on promoting trade relations, and he is looking forward to his visit to both countries. “
Dr. Ishanoglu was been credited for raising the profile of the OIC. “During the tenure of the current Secretary General, the OIC has gone through a process of substantial transformation towards action oriented cooperation among the member states, and the organization adopted a new charter underlying its new vision based on the promotion of moderation, modernization, development, human rights and good governance, " according to the statement.
There have been many misconceptions about the OIC. Maurits S. Hassankhan, a former Member of Parliament and former Cabinet Minister from Suriname said, “I do hope that the government will strengthen ties with the OIC, because I believe Suriname has a lot of opportunities within the OIC. Unfortunately, these opportunities have not been utilized, because of suspicion among many politicians and non-Muslims.”
Much of this planned historic visit was the initiative of Suriname’s President Desire Bouterse and his Presidential Advisor, former Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Suriname, Liakat Ali Errol Alibux, which was initiated two years ago at an OIC meeting in Kazakhstan. Bouterse invited the secretary general in an effort to forge stronger ties with the 57-member Organisation of mostly African and Asian countries.
Bouterse’s foreign policy emphasizes stronger South-to-South cooperation through bi-lateral and multi-lateral groups like the OIC, UNASUR and the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM). Some of the world richest nations and future top oil and gas producers’ are members of the OIC- Azerbaijan, Brunei, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, the UAE, Iran, Nigeria, and Iraq.
Some countries like Guyana and Suriname, with non-Muslim majority populations, such as Benin, Cameroon, Gabon, the Ivory Coast, Mozambique, Togo, and Uganda are OIC members. Russia and Thailand are Observer members. The United States has appointed an envoy to the OIC and Brazil, Sri Lanka, South Africa, Nepal and the Republic of Congo are seeking Observer membership, while the Republic of Central Africa and Mauritius are seeking full membership.
According to the OIC Mission to the UN, Dr. Ishanoglu will seek stronger economic cooperation between the OIC and Guyana and Suriname.
A statement release from the OIC on the upcoming visit, reads, "Secretary General Ekmeleddin Ihsanoglu pays special importance to bringing Guyana and Suriname into the fold of cooperation under the OIC projects, particularly in the field of economic development. Therefore, he has been encouraging the two countries to sign and ratify the new OIC Charter and various agreements, particularly on promoting trade relations, and he is looking forward to his visit to both countries. “
Dr. Ishanoglu was been credited for raising the profile of the OIC. “During the tenure of the current Secretary General, the OIC has gone through a process of substantial transformation towards action oriented cooperation among the member states, and the organization adopted a new charter underlying its new vision based on the promotion of moderation, modernization, development, human rights and good governance, " according to the statement.
There have been many misconceptions about the OIC. Maurits S. Hassankhan, a former Member of Parliament and former Cabinet Minister from Suriname said, “I do hope that the government will strengthen ties with the OIC, because I believe Suriname has a lot of opportunities within the OIC. Unfortunately, these opportunities have not been utilized, because of suspicion among many politicians and non-Muslims.”
Much of this planned historic visit was the initiative of Suriname’s President Desire Bouterse and his Presidential Advisor, former Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Suriname, Liakat Ali Errol Alibux, which was initiated two years ago at an OIC meeting in Kazakhstan. Bouterse invited the secretary general in an effort to forge stronger ties with the 57-member Organisation of mostly African and Asian countries.
Bouterse’s foreign policy emphasizes stronger South-to-South cooperation through bi-lateral and multi-lateral groups like the OIC, UNASUR and the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM). Some of the world richest nations and future top oil and gas producers’ are members of the OIC- Azerbaijan, Brunei, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, the UAE, Iran, Nigeria, and Iraq.
Some countries like Guyana and Suriname, with non-Muslim majority populations, such as Benin, Cameroon, Gabon, the Ivory Coast, Mozambique, Togo, and Uganda are OIC members. Russia and Thailand are Observer members. The United States has appointed an envoy to the OIC and Brazil, Sri Lanka, South Africa, Nepal and the Republic of Congo are seeking Observer membership, while the Republic of Central Africa and Mauritius are seeking full membership.
Live a life of no regrets
- By Dr. Waffie Mohammed
- Published 12/14/2012
(Barzakh is the state/place of waiting during interval between death and the Day of Judgement - Editor)
One of the differences with the life of this world and that of barzakh is that in barzakh you will be able to see your past and your future destination. Here, in this world you can only see your past and present. We do not know our destination. Allah says in Surah Yaseen;
Verily We shall give life to the dead, and We record that which they send before and that which they leave behind, and of all things have We taken account in a Clear Book (of evidence). (36:12)
Nothing will be left unrecorded regarding the activities of an individual. One of the meanings of ‘that which they leave behind’ is that of Sadaqatul Jariyah. If your family prays for you or if you left something behind that people can benefit from; these things would be of great benefit to you.
Never forget one thing, Allah does not only record the good that you do but He also records those things that you did and that you left behind that were of no value to anyone including yourself.
Allah says;
What is with you must vanish: what is with Allah will endure and We will certainly bestow, on those who patiently persevere, their reward to the best of their actions. (16:96)
Allah records those things that would be of benefit to us that we send before and that would continue to benefit us after we leave this earth. He also records those things that we left behind that would have caused harm to others and were valueless.
Prophet Muhammad is reported to have said on the Day of Judgment the deeds of man would be divided into two, that which was done for Allah and that which was done for the world.
More importantly of barzakh is regret that some people would experience when they see their destination;
And spend something (in charity) out of the substance which We have bestowed on you, before death should come to any of you and he should say, “O My Lord! Why didst Thou not give me respite for a little while? I should then have given (largely) in charity, and I should have been one of the doers of good”. (63:10)
When certain people go in Barzakh and they see the benefit and loss suffered they would plead to Allah to go back and only then would they be the most righteous, charitable etc.
This is an important lesson for all of us! Don’t wait for when reality comes to you to transform your life. When Pharaoh was drowning and he saw death fast approaching he shouted I believe in the God of Moses. All the along he paid no heed to the numerous signs Allah sent to him. Only when he saw his end nearing and he remembered the type of life he lived in the world, and the misery of the stay in barzakh then he believed. Don’t wait to be like that!
The Message is clear. This is possibly why the Qur’an is called Kitabal Mubin. Everyone can understand the dos and don’ts. You don’t need a scholar to explain to you.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. That should be out of the question for believers. Don’t sacrifice everything for this world. Remember Allah records what is sent before and what is left behind. Don’t fall into the situation that the unbelievers would find themselves in, as Allah says in Surah Naba;
The Day when man will see (the deeds) which his hands have sent forth, and the unbeliever will say, “Woe unto me! Would that I was (metre) dust!” (78:40)
Try to strike an appropriate balance in this world so that when death comes you will be prepared and not be in a state of regret when placed in Barzakh. We want to be from amongst those who will be happy to meet our Lord and He would be happy to meet us, insha Allah.
I always say that the time to improve and make amends is now; don’t procrastinate. None of us are guaranteed tomorrow. We beg Allah to help us and bless us to be alert to making the best use of our life in this world and to have no regrets when we depart for the next.
One of the differences with the life of this world and that of barzakh is that in barzakh you will be able to see your past and your future destination. Here, in this world you can only see your past and present. We do not know our destination. Allah says in Surah Yaseen;
Verily We shall give life to the dead, and We record that which they send before and that which they leave behind, and of all things have We taken account in a Clear Book (of evidence). (36:12)
Nothing will be left unrecorded regarding the activities of an individual. One of the meanings of ‘that which they leave behind’ is that of Sadaqatul Jariyah. If your family prays for you or if you left something behind that people can benefit from; these things would be of great benefit to you.
Never forget one thing, Allah does not only record the good that you do but He also records those things that you did and that you left behind that were of no value to anyone including yourself.
Allah says;
What is with you must vanish: what is with Allah will endure and We will certainly bestow, on those who patiently persevere, their reward to the best of their actions. (16:96)
Allah records those things that would be of benefit to us that we send before and that would continue to benefit us after we leave this earth. He also records those things that we left behind that would have caused harm to others and were valueless.
Prophet Muhammad is reported to have said on the Day of Judgment the deeds of man would be divided into two, that which was done for Allah and that which was done for the world.
More importantly of barzakh is regret that some people would experience when they see their destination;
And spend something (in charity) out of the substance which We have bestowed on you, before death should come to any of you and he should say, “O My Lord! Why didst Thou not give me respite for a little while? I should then have given (largely) in charity, and I should have been one of the doers of good”. (63:10)
When certain people go in Barzakh and they see the benefit and loss suffered they would plead to Allah to go back and only then would they be the most righteous, charitable etc.
This is an important lesson for all of us! Don’t wait for when reality comes to you to transform your life. When Pharaoh was drowning and he saw death fast approaching he shouted I believe in the God of Moses. All the along he paid no heed to the numerous signs Allah sent to him. Only when he saw his end nearing and he remembered the type of life he lived in the world, and the misery of the stay in barzakh then he believed. Don’t wait to be like that!
The Message is clear. This is possibly why the Qur’an is called Kitabal Mubin. Everyone can understand the dos and don’ts. You don’t need a scholar to explain to you.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. That should be out of the question for believers. Don’t sacrifice everything for this world. Remember Allah records what is sent before and what is left behind. Don’t fall into the situation that the unbelievers would find themselves in, as Allah says in Surah Naba;
The Day when man will see (the deeds) which his hands have sent forth, and the unbeliever will say, “Woe unto me! Would that I was (metre) dust!” (78:40)
Try to strike an appropriate balance in this world so that when death comes you will be prepared and not be in a state of regret when placed in Barzakh. We want to be from amongst those who will be happy to meet our Lord and He would be happy to meet us, insha Allah.
I always say that the time to improve and make amends is now; don’t procrastinate. None of us are guaranteed tomorrow. We beg Allah to help us and bless us to be alert to making the best use of our life in this world and to have no regrets when we depart for the next.