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Muslim TimesQueensland

Muslim Times

Ramadan 20085

Muslim Women’s Conference in BrisbanePage 3

Barking up the Wrong TaxiPage 3

INSIDE THIS ISSUEContinued Page 12

Volume 4, No. 4, August ‘08/Sha’aban 1429 4000 Free copies

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Muslim Marriages: Where and how do you meet the right one?

By Nora Amath

IN THE LAST WEEK ALONE, I have been to two weddings. And I have been told that there are a couple more weddings in the coming weeks. It seems that everyone is getting married. Look at past issues of the Queensland Muslim Times (QMT) or Crescents Community News (CCN) and you will see smiling newlyweds featured. In this crazy, busy world Muslims are still finding each other and marrying; and they seem to be doing it with ease. So how is it that some people are meeting each other with ease while others are struggling?Most young people I have spoken to have met at university, events or through friends. “When you are at university, you attend classes or workshops with many people and you get to know someone academically without any pressures. I met my husband that way. I was attracted to his intelligence, and he mine, and from class discussions we found that we were very similar in our values and outlook on life. Marriage seemed to be a natural process for us,” said Anisa*.One sister met her husband through a leadership forum for Muslim youth. “We had never met before that although I knew his sister quite well. I didn’t know they were brothers and sisters. But we met at a leadership forum and subhanallah we shared a strong commitment to Islam. We both love our Islam and we wanted to share that with each other,” said Sakina*.

The SaturdayBBQAn idea that was in process for a few years has finally come to realisation; a weekly event for people within the Islamic environment. THE SATURDAY EVENING BBQ at the Kuraby Mosque carpark have become increasingly popular with more than 100 people attending each time. A lot of them are young people, who enjoy a delicious BBQ meal followed by a few games. One of the brothers who set it off the ground said that “youth always get hassled for going to the wrong places but no one offers an alternative; the youth just want a place to hang out with their friends.” He hopes that the Saturday BBQ can be the alternative for the young people. However, the BBQ is not just for young people. Everyone is encouraged to come. Kuraby Mosque has a very mixed community; people of all nationalities come to the mosque regularly. “The BBQ will help to break barriers between the nationalities, as outside of the mosque people are not mixing,” the brother said. “Children don’t see barriers between nationalities but parents won’t know their children’s friends unless they make an effort to know them,” he said. The brother encourages the parents to come and meet their kid’s friends and their parents. “The community needs to know each other, otherwise we will not be able to help each other in times of need,” he said.

Continued Page 2

MUSTAFA ALLY A WELL-KNOWN personality in the Muslim Community is launching his book 100 Years of History: The Holland Park Mosque 1908-2008 on 30th August at the 100th Anniversary Celebrations of the Holland Park Mosque. The idea of compiling a history of the Mosque came from the 100-Year Holland Park Celebration Committee and it was decided that Mr. Ally would be entrusted with the task of writing the story. Mustafa Ally lectures in the School of Information Systems in the Faculty of Business at the University of Southern Queensland. Currently Mr. Ally is the President of Crescents of Brisbane, the Editor-in-Chief of the weekly e-Newsletter, Crescents Community News (CCN), and the organisation’s webmaster. The book records the proud 100-year history of the Holland Park Mosque and tells the story of the development of the Mosque from 1908, when it was first established as “The Mohammedan Mosque,” through to 2008.Mr Ally said that the book is there to document the development of

the Holland Park Mosque and the people who played a part in making it such an important part of the Muslim community of Queensland. “The book will resonate with every Queenslander, every Muslim and everyone who has an interest in the part Muslims have played in the State,” he said. Information and research for the book was done through newspaper articles, archived material and photo albums. Interviews were also conducted with individuals such as the 90 year old Sami Osman who lives in a retirement village. Mr Ally said that readers will learn of the role the Mosque played in ensuring that Islam flourished in a Christian dominated country through the lives of the many interesting personalitiesThe book is a compendium of photographs, anecdotes and facts spanning the centenary. It was compiled in the two months, but having seen the initial reviews on the book Mr Ally is pleased that it does justice to the history of the mosque.As many as 1000 copies will be available in the first run, however the hard copies will be in a limited number.

A mosque’s history is recorded

A mosque’s history is recorded

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� QUEENSLAND MUSLIM TIMES – August ‘08/Sha’aban 1429

Queensland

Muslim Times

Editor: Rehana Bibi

Website:www.qmt.org.au

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Queensland Muslim Times invites readers to send their opinions and comments to:

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preferably less than 250 words, stating your full name, address, contact telephone number for

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DisclaimerQueensland Muslim Times takes all reasonable steps to ensure that the information provided within its pages is correct. However to the extent committed by law, no responsibility is accepted for incorrect or misleading entries, or typographical or human error. Advertisers and advertising agencies will indemnify the publisher against all liabilities, claims or proceedings arising from the material supplied by the advertiser or agency. All advertising shall comply with relevant state and federal laws and advertising codes of the Media Council Of Australia. The opinions expressed throughout this publication are not necessarily those of the staff of the Queensland Muslim Times. Dates and information quoted in this issue were correct at the time of printing but may be subject to variation.

EditorialTHE MUSLIM COMMUNITY is growing, not just in population but also in age and with that come certain challenges. Finding a spouse is never easy, it would be fair to say that quite a few people in the community are finding it difficult to meet the “right one.” IWAQ has our full support for taking on the task to bring in an expert that can assist in the situation. However the community has to participate in the project to make it successful in the long run. Encourage your sons, daughters, friends and family to sign up for the initiative.

HOLLAND PARK MOSQUE’S HISTORY has been recorded. This is an achievement for the whole Muslim community of Queensland today as well as the generations to come. Muslims have been in Australia for a decade and we should be proud of our history and help create positive moments that will be recorded for future reference for our children and their children. Well done to Mustafa Ally and the 100 year Holland Park Celebration Committee!

RAMADAN IS AROUND THE CORNER and while we are preparing spiritually as well as stocking up on foods, we shouldn’t forget our brothers and sisters who will be without shelter and food and those in war-torn lands. Remember them in your duas but also open your hearts and give, not just to reap the rewards but to make a difference.

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Letters to the EditorMuslim Youth Speak Out:Salam alykoom,I just wanted to comment a bit about the article (Muslim youth speak out)... Yes, I am not between 14-18 but I totally understand what these youth are speaking about as I was going through the same issues when I was their age. Now I am a youth worker, which allows me to be a counselor (for the youth that were asking for a Muslim youth counselor).I disagree with some things the youth in this article have raised: 1) One of them said that she knows about some Muslim youth organisations but does not know what they do. I think she should’ve made the effort to find out more about them. How? By reading QMT; Al-Nisa, My Services, Fair Go For Palestine and AMARAH always try to have columns in the newspaper. When I was their age, the way I got involved with all four organisations was by me getting out there and doing the effort to actually become part of them by being a volunteer.2) We always ask youth to join and we are always advertising our events as much as possible plus we are always and constantly inviting the youth for focus groups to hear them and listen to them.3) Salma Mousali and I (Salam El-Merebi) have offered our assistance and help heaps of times for Muslim youth in anything including free counseling sessions. We even left our contacts at the Islamic College of Brisbane and we made sure students heard of us. Did we get any Muslim youth calling us or knocking on our doors? Nope... 4) A point is made by one Muslim youth, where he says that there is a generation gap. I just

turned 21 so I don’t think there is that much of a gap... we do reach out to them but I think they also have to make the effort of actually asking for our help.What more can we do then going to different schools, writing in the QMT and CCN and advertising in mosques and MSAs? I would really like you to forward my details to these Muslim youth please to let them know that we are here, but we need them to also do their part of the process as well. Email: [email protected] Phone number: 0422 585 179I really do thank you for writing up this article; it was really good. I did enjoy reading it. Writing up this article and me reading it allowed these youth to not only open up but also to get my full assistance inshallah, if they still need it. I am more than happy to be their mentor in anything they need and I am also sure that Salma Mousali would also be glad to help them as well...

Thank you so much,Salam El-Merebi

The BBQ starts at sunset and end at Isha (7.30pm). A plate of food costs $5 and the money raised is used to run the BBQ. Since the start of the BBQ a few weeks back the organisers have been able to buy a few games and some equipment with the money raised. There are separate facilities for the ladies, including their own board games and air hockey table. The brother further said that he hopes this event will bring more people to the mosque and that children will associate social activities to the mosque. “During the time of the Prophet (pbuh) the mosque was a central part of society – where everything happened,” he said.

The Saturday BBQFrom Page 1

Letters to the Editor

Access to QMTI have really enjoyed reading your newspaper, however now that I have left Australia, I am saddened to find that your paper has not been uploaded to your website. It would be really great if you could do this in order for me to keep in touch with what is happening ‘back home’. Your articles are always well thought out, entertaining and educational. May Allah SWT give you all the courage, strength and stamina to continue publishing this newspaper.

Wasalaam,Anonymous

The Saturday BBQ doesn’t have a fixed agenda, its open for ideas and the organisers wish for the community to take charge of it. The brother said that “if people wish to have a learning circle, or if they want to play games; make new friends; or simply just have a hang out spot, they can.”

QUEENSLAND MUSLIM TIMES – August ‘08/Sha’aban 1429 �

MS FAIZA EL-HIGZI coordinated the conference and it was hosted by HE The Governor of Queensland (and Governor-General of Australia elect) Ms Quentin Bryce AC at her official residence. A number of research papers were delivered during the course of the day highlighting the challenges and barriers that Muslim women faced in Australia. There were case studies that demonstrated the initiatives being undertaken by community groups and the government to address some of these issues.Ms El-Higzi said that the idea for the conference came about after several discussions with people from mainstream and other community organisations. The discussions made it clear that “there was a need to have forums for dialogue and in particular to start talking about Muslim women and presenting opportunities for Muslim women to meet with other groups,” she said. Faiza El-Higzi, originally from Sudan, an architect by profession with three postgraduate degrees on her CV, is currently working for Queensland Government in economic and strategic policy. Faiza has a long history of community work behind her, as she has been actively involved with everything from the P&C of the Islamic School to the Islamic Women’s Association. A couple of years ago, she developed the Al-Nisa Youth Group with a few motivated young Muslim women.Ms El-Higzi sought funding from both the State and Federal Government, but the idea of holding a Muslim Women’s conference did not achieve any traction until she met with the Governor of Queensland, Ms Quentin Bryce, in November last year and proposed the idea. Without any hesitation, she had offered to host it at Government House. “It was important after that to organise the event in such a way so as to achieve as many objectives as possible while remaining strategic,” Ms El-Higzi said.

Conference ObjectivesDuring the conference, various Muslim community organisations were able to network with other groups and agencies as well getting exposed to research and projects that have been undertaken over the past two years. Muslim women were seen and heard in a professional context: as presenters, moderators and participants counteracting the “victim” image they are always portrayed in. Ms El-Higzi stated that it was important for her “to set our own agenda, own our issues and reaffirm our position as Muslim women in this land.”The conference was also an information-sharing forum. Over the past two years, a number of reputable universities conducted research in a number of areas that affect the Muslim community. Not many people were aware of these papers; therefore, the conference focused on making the findings of these papers available to participants and alerted them to what is on the pipeline. Ms El-Higzi has said that since the conference she has received a number of emails from speakers and participants who wanted to get in touch with people they met at the conference and have discussed with them some issues that they wished to explore further.

“A number of delegates wrote back to me saying that they have been to many conferences but they have never learnt so much and that they felt so welcome even thought they did not know anyone,” Ms El-Higzi said.Many women also commented that they were not expecting to see men because they thought that Muslim women do not deal with men. The conference was not only for women, but men were also invited to attend as presenters, participants and moderators. “It highlighted the relationship we have with; one that is not of submission as is the common perception, but one based on mutual respect and understanding,” Ms El-Higzi said.

Below is a transcript of the interview with Ms El-Higzi:

What in your opinion is the biggest challenge that Muslim women face in the Australian society today?The challenges are many. Most are no different to those challenges facing all other women: in health, education, employment and human rights. However, there are challenges specific to us as a result of the choices we make in our lives because we live in a secular society. From the way we dress to the principles we employ to conduct ourselves in our daily life. None of these issues is too small to be insignificant. We also have to acknowledge that there are also barriers that we as Muslims have constructed around ourselves. The greatest challenge is not to develop a “victim” mentality, do nothing about the issues that we face, or expect others to sort things out for us, or indeed to blame them. I believe it is high time that we as women and men work with each other, within our community, to address those issues that are of our making and that we can do something about. We also need to work with other women groups to address those challenges that are common to all of us as women. If we believe we are part of this society then we need to recognise that we have a responsibility to be part of shaping that future. Not an easy task, but not an impossible one either.

What next, will there be more Muslim Women’s conferences in the future? My dream is to expand this idea to a national and then an international forum. I believe that with the grace of Allah and the support of the right people anything is possible. Insha Allah.When I came up with the idea of Towards Common Ground, I wanted to start a dialogue process. I think the time is right for us to start some conversations with ourselves and with others, and to provide opportunities for different viewpoints to be aired, even those that we do not agree with. The objective here is not to provide solutions, but enrich our understanding of ourselves and others. We are to become participants and not mere observers; we need to start shaping our ideas and learn how to use dialogue to influence change

The Muslim Women Conference Towards Common Ground held on Wednesday 16 July at Government House attracted some 140 delegates from many different agencies and organisations.

By Rehana Bibi

Using Dialogue to Influence Change

Using Dialogue to Influence Change

WHEN I FIRST READ about Brisbane Muslim taxi drivers refusing to take guide dogs into their cabs, my first reaction was ‘here we go again – complete overreaction from Muslims and yet again a reason for non-Muslims to attack us.’ The problem stems from what I see as the three Misses – very awkward women with attitude problems. First of all, Miss Conception who already has her mind made up before hearing anything, refuses to see both sides no matter how delicately or diplomatically it is stated and will ensure she warns all her friends of the “evil enemy.” Then we have Miss Information who relishes in telling others wrong information or only half-truths. Lastly, there is Miss Understanding who, to her credit does try to see another’s point of view but will almost always get it wrong.Miss Conception:Contrary to popular non-Muslim opinion, Muslims are not commanded to hate dogs, mistreat them or harm them in any way. In fact, there is reward for any small kindness we do towards any living creature. There are countless ahadith specifically on the treatment of animals. Animals even have rights under Shariah.Miss Information:The health risk for a Muslim cab driver to have a dog in the car is no more than a non-Muslim driver. There are only very few diseases that can be transmitted from dog to humans and generally one requires very close physical contact for a prolonged period of time. As Muslims though, we may share some of the concerns of the taxi drivers in taking dogs into their cabs. Dog saliva in most madahab (schools of thought) is considered impure and if clothing or any body part comes into contact with it, one must change or wash their clothing and wash the part of the body affected before ritual prayers are accepted. The Shafi’i school of thought has an even more strict view on dogs and it isn’t just their saliva that is considered impure. Their hair, skin, saliva and flesh are all classified as heavy filth1. The Maliki opinion is that there is no impurity, but we must still wash any area soiled with the saliva2.It is perhaps necessary to digress for a minute to establish that the words “impure, unclean and

filthy” do not relate to dirt, sand or bacteria but rather a ritual impurity. When a Muslim says that dogs are “unclean” they mean this in a spiritual sense rather than that they are covered in dirt or carry disease.Miss Understanding: Having said all that, how often would a cab driver be needing to drive a person with a guide dog? Guide dogs are trained not to interact with strangers and certainly not to lick them. Most guide dogs are Labrador retrievers – dogs with short hair, minimal shedding and not known for drooling like other breeds. And how much hassle is it really to wash up afterwards? Yes, it’s an inconvenience but so are a lot of things. What about keeping a blanket in the boot for these times? A towel has regular occupation in my boot as I have three little boys who are mashaAllah wonderful children, though not known for their cleanliness. The drivers can lay out the blanket on the area where the dog will be sitting and take it off afterwards.Muslim taxi drivers must be made aware of their obligations to their passengers, their employers and to the public at large. They need to plan for the time they may need to drive a passenger needing a guide dog - a change of clothes in the very unlikely event their clothes will be licked, a towel to cover the seats and perhaps even a bottle of water for ablutions. I would imagine they would already be carrying this and more as they’re more likely in the course of their work to be carrying an intoxicated and nauseous passenger than a dog.I fully admit I don’t know all the facts in the cases where the taxi drivers were fired. I would hope the cab company made sure the drivers knew what was expected of them and that their jobs were at stake in the event they left behind a passenger.Instead of leaving the dogs in the lurch, we would all do well to leave the three Misses on the side of the road. The last thing those awful women need is a vehicle to travel in.

Tasmiya Hussein is a veterinarian, wife and mother.

By Tasmiya Hussein

Barking Up the Wrong Taxi


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This year, Mr. Khan promises a variety of �0 different dates from places like South Africa, California, United Arab Emirates, Medina, Iran and Tunisia, just to mention a few. Mr Khan is also very excited to launch the Sukri Date directly from Medina. Customers can also enjoy almond-filled dates, coconut-coated dates and almond-coated dates.

Mr. Khan who has a background in the printing business set up Global Convenience four years ago. He imports most of his goods from India, Pakistan, Malaysia, Sri Lanka and South Africa. By expanding his store from 170 sqm to the huge 1100 sqm., Mr. Khan has been able to buy bulk in bigger quantities, which again means better and competitive prices for his customers. Mr Khan thrives on giving the best service to his customers.

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THE GOLD COAST AND THE BRISBANE MUSLIM communities fondly remember one of the most active and long-standing personalities, Dr Aboobaker Chothia, who passed away on the 23rd of May 2008 at the age of 76 in South Africa, leaving behind his wife, three children and many grandchildren. After arriving from South Africa in 1979, Dr Chothia soon settled on the Gold Coast, taking residence in Tugun and practised general medicine in Palm Beach. The Muslim families were few and far between, scattered over an area of 50km. Because there were no mosque, madrassah, halal butchers or halal restaurants on the Coast, the task of living as a Muslim family was formidable. Thus, Dr Chothia and his family frequently traveled to Brisbane to maintain a stronger bond with the larger Muslim community and attended the Holland Park Masjid which was the only mosque at the time for prayers; Brisbane was also a place for him and his family to obtain halal meat, spices and so forth.In 1982, Dr Chothia, the late Mr Sharief Goss, Mr Aslam Nabi, Mr Mustapha Karman, Mr Mehmet Hodzic, Mr Hamid Safic and Mr Kassim congregated at Mr Hodzic’s residence in Labrador and conducted the first Jumah prayer on the Gold Coast. Dr Chothia and those brothers subsequently congregated there at least once a week for prayers. Not long after, the venue for Friday Jumah prayers was moved to Dr Chothia’s residence, where he lead the Friday prayers.

The Islamic CentreIn 1984, the Gold Coast Islamic Society was officially established. Dr Chothia was involved

in drafting the first constitution. He was also elected the first president and he served in this capacity for many years. In 1987, the late Mr Sharief Goss, Mr Aslam Nabi and Dr Chothia, all members of the management committee at the time, were instrumental in securing two spacious plots of land from the Queensland Government, where the present Mosque and Imam’s residence is located.Dr Chothia and others played a major role in the establishment of the Gold Coast Mosque through various fundraising events and collection drives. He and others were instrumental in attracting many Muslims to the area and to the Mosque. Dr Chothia observed the advancements of the centre with great delight and contentment. Socially, Dr Chothia and his family integrated with most of the Muslims in the Gold Coast and maintained a strong bond with the Brisbane Muslim community. Hardly an event passed by without the presence of the Chothia family.Dr Chothia sparked the hearts of many and encouraged them in the way of Islam. In 2004, Dr Chothia and others established the Tacwa Welfare and Charity Association, and in January 2005, he rushed to Indonesia to assist in the tsunami disaster. In 2006, he pioneered the Dawah movement for the Aboriginal community and then supported the establishment of this centre in Redfern, Sydney. Dr Chothia was a person of vision, committed to uplift the Muslims and was concerned with the welfare of others. His last ambition was to establish an old age nursing home in Brisbane /Gold Coast. May Allah SWT Grant Dr Chothia His Infinite and Most Gracious Blessings.


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CURRENT EVENTS

ON A RECENT TOUR in Australia, South Africa’s Zain Bhika together with an entourage of stars, joined hands with Human Appeal International and Human Appeals’s Brisbane branch Hope for Happiness in raising funds for their orphans. The Sound of Light Concert was held at the Convention Centre. QMT’S Shaida Gutta got an exclusive interview with Zain Bikha after the concert.This is the first time you have come to Australia, how has your encounter been so far? Alhamdulillah, I haven’t seen much of the country as I only landed last night, but from what I have seen from the plane and the people I have spoken to, it’s been one of the most well organised shows I have been involved with. All the people I have met have integrated well into the community. Did you have any expectations coming to Australia? A lot of people told me it was very similar to South Africa in terms of the weather, lifestyle and people and from what I saw, Alhamdulillah I can see why they have said that and why so many people are moving here. Are you planning on relocating and if so where? Actually, I am planning to move to Dubai because I have so much family there already and the people who record my CDs (Jamal Records) are based in Dubai and they have been encouraging me to come to Dubai. But having come here now I see there is a lot of potential here especially with the huge South African community, which helps in adjusting. If you don’t mind me asking, are you married and do you have kids? Yes I am and I have four kids, four boys, and we are still waiting for the first girl.

Are they the inspirations for your songs? Absolutely! I find my inspiration from my family especially my children. I see them growing up and they provide so much inspiration! But also things I see around and especially when I went to Makkah, I wrote many songs there and just things from day to day living. What or who would you say is your greatest inspiration? I would say my family because they have inspired so many of my songs, but I think the most important thing is to be in touch with things around you because it’s all around us (inspiration). Sometimes we are not attuned to it or not looking for it so we have to open our eyes and look at the wonder. Unfortunately, the world we are living in is so disposable; here one day, gone the next - so quick, and we don’t see the beauty of it. Everything is explainable. There is no wonder left in the world so we have to search for it, be it in our family, a flower or the sky. Since when have you been singing/writing? I started singing when I was a youngster in school. I have been writing since high school, but I started writing Islamic Songs in 1994. There wasn’t much available at the time and I became inspired. It was basic songs about giving thanks to Allah and you are never alone. Alhamdulillah, as the years went by it became a paradox because the songs started benefiting me first before anyone else because I started travelling and meeting people and it made me a better person. So I have benefited the most from my songs. You mentioned Yusuf Islam, were you working with him? Yes, Jamal Records is an addition of his label Mountain of Light that he started in 1995. He wanted to use the media to portray the correct message of Islam and he did the Life of the

Aussie Muslims Welcome Pope

IslamOnline.net & News Agencies

AUSTRALIAN MUSLIMS welcomed visiting Pope Benedict XVI as thousands of Catholics descended on Sydney for the World Youth Day on Monday 14th July. On this occasion Ikebal Patel, president of the Australian Federation of Islamic Councils extended his sincere greetings to the Pope, the attending pilgrims and the Catholic Community of Australia on behalf of Muslims of Australia. Thousands of Catholic pilgrims from around the globe followed sacred icons through the streets of Sydney on Monday ahead of World Youth Day that commenced on Tuesday 15th July. Thousands of singing and chanting young Catholics flying the flags of countries around the world trooped with a 3.8-metre (12-foot) cross through the city, where hundreds of roads are being closed for the festivities.Pope Benedict, spiritual leader of the world’s 1.1 billion Catholics, arrived on Sunday to prepare for the week of festivities. World Youth Day is the largest Catholic youth event in the world. Initiated by Pope John Paul II in 1984, it brings together young people from around the globe to celebrate and learn about Christianity.Australian Muslims hosted 350 catholic pilgrims attending the event. “I am particularly proud that the Catholic Church has accepted our offer to host the pilgrims,” Patel, who is a board member of the Malek Fahd Islamic School, said. The school offered all accommodations to the Catholic pilgrims. During his stay in Sydney, Pope Benedict will meet with 40 representatives of other faiths including Muslim, Jewish, Buddhist and Hindu leaders. Australia is home to more than 340.000 Muslims, making up 1.7 percent of its 20-million population. Muslims have been in Australia for more than 200 years and Islam is the second largest religion after Christianity.

Last Prophet (the narration of it) and he wanted to focus on using songs as well. It was very fortunate for me that he came across one of my tapes and thought I was someone he could work with. Alhamdulillah, I have been working with him since 1999 when we launched an album. He has been a great mentor and we worked together in producing a lot of songs and he is a sounding board for me. What is your favourite song?There are two songs that come to mind, one is “Mountains of Makkah” because I was there and the song came to me quickly - some songs take time to develop, but with this song it only took two/ three days. The other song is “Allah knows”; it’s a good song in terms of giving people hope. We all go through tough times and sometimes we forget that Allah is always available and we need to realise that . And He may test us sometimes, but He tests those He loves and we need to go through it with patience and remember He will never test us beyond our capacity and He will always bring relief at some point. “Allah knows” really represents a lot of hope and a lot of hope for other people. Are you coming back to Brisbane? Definitely! Next time I hope I can come for longer and I really love nature so I would like to go more to the rural areas and outback: wherever I can be more in touch with nature and see the natural beauty of the country. You see a lot on TV but I would like to see it in real life.

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10 QUEENSLAND MUSLIM TIMES – August ‘08/Sha’aban 1429

JERUSALEM – WHAT A CITY! Some 3000 odd years old. A land that has been sought and fought over many a time; that has seen many different kings, leaders, empires and dynasties. A land, in which many a prophet preached, resided and was laid to rest. Each empire, prophet, ruler and society has left its mark on the city, which can still be seen and felt today. The city, in which King David ruled over, King Solomon spoke with animals, Queen Sheba was invited to. The city in which the blood ran through the streets during the crusades, Abraham resided and Muhammad (peace be upon him) visited on his night journey. The history of this place is unbelievable; the present disputed; and the future uncertain.

The JourneyI travelled the one-hour journey from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem by bus. Security is tight with a lot of checks and stops. It’s common to see soldiers, in full army gear, armed with Kalashnikovs roaming the street, in buses, in malls, everywhere. Most are young Israelis probably in their late teens and early twenties – conscripted into the Israeli Defence Force (IDF) once they are out of school. It’s always an abnormal situation when children have to join the army and fire assault rifles, rather than go to university and get their neurons firing. A strange thing I noticed though, was the number of foreign Jewish youngsters who come over to “the Promised Land” to join the IDF and become incorporated into the Jewish, Israeli community. Jerusalem is awash with holy folks. Or holy looking folks rather. Lots of people wearing their religious garb. The Muslims in the kurthas and

hats, the Christians in their robes and the Jews in their black suits and either the wide brimmed black hat or the yarmulke.

Al Quds – The old CityEnclosed by walls on all four sides, most recently fortified by Ottoman Ruler, Sulayman the Magnificent in the 16th Century, the old city is only accessible through six or seven gates. The city itself is not big, and quite densely populated. It is divided into Muslim, Christian, Jewish and Armenian Quarters. The Old city has the haram sharif (Temple mount as it is referred to by the Jews) on the south east corner. The Quarters (especially that between the Muslim and Jewish quarters) are distinct and one can clearly know when one has walked into a different part of the city. The Jewish Quarter is newer, cleaner and more organised, less densely populated but also more bland. It is the newest part of the old City having been reconstructed in 1967 after the 6-day war when Israel “reclaimed” East Jerusalem and most of the West Bank from Jordan. I entered the old city for the first time after after Asr salaah on the 26th of Ramadaan, through the Damascus gate, which is the main gate from East Jerusalem. The Muslim Quarter was extremely busy, with people coming to Al Aqsa for “The night of Destiny” (laylatul Qadr) and others purchasing things for Eid and iftaar preparations. The smell of freshly baked bread merging with that of Arabic coffee, the businessman shouting out their bargains, the decorations of Ramadaan that light up the Muslim quarter and the excitement within me as I meandered my way to Al Aqsa, all made for an unforgettable experience!

Al AqsaThe haram sharif complex has a strong security presence – it is not uncommon in fact to walk past three or four Israeli soldiers and policeman every 50 metres in the old city, but particularly in the Muslim quarter. To enter the complex, because I probably stood out as a foreigner, I had to prove that I was in fact Muslim by reciting some verses of the Quran. Once passed that security check, you walk onto the courtyard and the beautiful gold dome of the Dome of the Rock imposes its presence and dominates your vision. The courtyard was bustling with people. Al Aqsa mosque itself was smaller than I had expected. The outside of the mosque does not really compare to the mosaics that decorate the Dome of the Rock. I entered Al Aqsa and all the anticipation within me, the atmosphere that surrounded me and the spirit of the occasion, made for an unforgettable and almost overwhelming experience. My first prayer in Al Aqsa was special – I prostrated where many great men have, many prophets, many rulers, where many long to but cannot. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) has said something to the effect that the me’raj of the believer is his prayer. In and around the Old City, there are many sites of historical and religious significance to all three monotheistic religions. I came across the

This is the second letter from Muhammad Ihsan, a South African doctor who recently spent almost 3 months in Palestine as a volunteer.

Salaam/Shalom(Peace) to all from Al Quds – The holy lands of Jerusalem

Via Dolorosa – the Path of the cross – through which Jesus (peace be upon him) is believed to have received judgement, torture and then carried the cross through the streets.There is so much to speak off and write about. My time in Al Quds was largely spent trying to imbibe the atmosphere, culture and overall vibe of the City - wandering around and visiting places of significance and trying to engage people in discussion. The people here seem to have so much in common and culture overlaps somewhat, even with religion; yet they seem to use these as barriers and points of contention. It saddens me somewhat, speaking to people, religious people who have taken common beliefs and made them radical to exert their divine rites to this holy real estate. My spirituality had heightened but my pessimism for the future of this land has deepened. And I am yet to enter the Occupied territories and experience the occupation... Read the letter from West Bank in the next issue…

If you have any comments or feedback please email Mohammad Ihsan at [email protected]

QUEENSLAND MUSLIM TIMES – August ‘08/Sha’aban 1429 11

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FEATURES

SALMA ISMAIL HAS BEEN working as an optician for the past four years. She loves the profession as it’s a career in which you help people and “you can choose to work part-time, full-time or to travel.” QMT’s Shamime Mustapha decided to explore other factors that motivated Salma to pursue a career in optometry.

How did u go about choosing your career and where did you study?When I was in high school and had just started A-Levels (Equivalent to year 12 in Australia) at Arundel School in Zimbabwe I was provided with career advice as all students were. This involved an assessment which showed your strengths and what fields you would best excel in depending on your choice of core subjects. This, in my case, was physics, maths and biology, being my three favourite subjects. All these pointed to a number of different courses I could have entered into but optometry stuck out because it involved helping people and seemed quite cool. Another important pushing factor for me was that one of my cousins had just had a child born with congenital glaucoma, a sight-threatening disease, which made me acutely aware of the importance of eyes; and thus increased my interest further - I wanted to be able to do something to help!

What type of work does it entail and what aged people do you work with? I work with all age groups and this basically involves assessing whether someone needs to wear spectacles to help with their vision and whether they have any eye diseases that need to be addressed by an ophthalmologist. However, everyone is different and have different personalities and it never ceases to

amaze me how peoples’ varying perceptions and expectations can cause each and every eye examination to be so different. This always adds a different dimension to working with eyes and the advantage is that one will never be bored by the mundane! I have had many interesting experiences and some very rewarding that have brought me to tears in some cases (something easily done!) Another interesting point is that there are many systemic diseases that can be picked up by a simple eye examination! For such a tiny seemingly simple organ, it is very complex and is linked to many different parts of the body. It makes me very aware of the importance of sight and how it would be one of the hardest senses to lose! There are many different sub-specialties within optometry that one can focus on. Apart from the general optometrist, there are behavioural optometrists who specialise in children’s vision mainly, and thus have further specialised equipment. There is also the contact lens specialty which I have pursued in the past and find extremely interesting - especially the more challenging cases where the patient requires a specialised contact lens fit! There are also locum optometrists who fill in for optometrists on holiday, etc. This is great as you can chose when and where you work. There is always the opportunity to get involved in research as well.

How long have you been working in this field and where have you been working? I have been working in the field for four years; it’s been enjoyable and I have been fortunate enough to travel to different spots within Australia and overseas. I have worked within a corporate company environment and also went

to Tanzania to work with eye care aide. The experience in Tanzania made me very aware of the need for eye care services in a poor country and something that I hoped I could continue to be a part of in the future. In private practice, I have also been to several different rural sights within Queensland including Rockhampton, Ayr and have worked in SA with Aboriginal children at the time of one of the local Croc Festivals. This was again an eye-opener for me to see that there is a great need in Australia for appropriate eye care services for the Indigenous communities of Australia.

Would you recommend this profession to young Muslim school leavers as something viable? I would highly recommend this profession for young Muslim school leavers who wish to pursue a rewarding career. It is a clean cut job and offers a variety of sub-areas in which you can form your own niche. The great thing is that you can choose to work part-time, full-time or to travel. Furthermore, the job prospects are high. If you enjoy working with people and are healthcare orientated, then this is a profession worth pursuing. I feel that from an Islamic point if we intend to do right by people and not cause anyone any deliberate harm in any way then in whatever we pursue, Inshallah we shall be rewarded. Allah knows best!

Could you mention some of the highlights of your career and what impact it’s had on you? The greatest points in my career have been the work in Tanzania which had led me to pursue this current journey I am on. I am a born and bread Zimbabwean and what better place to volunteer my services than Tanzania (Africa!). I had never been there before and heard it was a beautiful country. I arrived to find that the people who had volunteered were from different parts of the world and of different career backgrounds- not only optometry! They all came together to work towards the same goal and we travelled through many spectacular types of scenery to remote townships. In all, the work we did was exhausting but to see what we had achieved at the end was very rewarding. A very important note is that most of the people we provided eye care services and spectacles for were Muslims!

Career Choice:The Eye Expert

Ala-Din wishes its clients and the Muslim community happy Ramadan and Eid Mubarak.

Hussein Asif wishes to inform all that he is opening a retail

distribution centre at Kuraby in the near future. Look out in next

QMT for more details.

First District Cross CountryCompetitors at Islamic College of Brisbane (ICB)

By Dylan Chown

FOLLOWING ON FROM ICB’s successful 2008 cross country, 11 students became the first College students to represent Karawatha District at the Regional trials. They acquitted themselves well and enjoyed the trip to Ipswich for a look at the ‘next level’ of competition. Students included: Roukaya Hijazi Zahra Rahimi, Sapna Ahmad, Rose Richani, Aysha Al Maani, Oumama Hadj Mohammed, Iman Mesbah, Sehnaz Erol, Kevser Erol, Omair Khan, Jamal Rane It was certainly a term dominated by cross-country at ICB. Dean of Students, Mr Ben Sullivan coordinated short and medium course cross country events in the lead up to the ‘Whole of College’ event. William Forsythe did a fantastic job of setting up the course and displayed outstanding event management skills. Staff competed in both events and displayed excellent self-control knowing how crushing it would be for students to be beaten by their ageing teachers.The weather was kind to competitors, teacher organisers and parent volunteers for the ‘Whole of College’ cross country event. The course this year was most certainly a cross-country with students asked to run between 3 km and 6 km depending on their age. Students ran through a course of bushland adjacent to the College and into a section of the Karawatha Forest negotiating natural obstacles such as trees, sandy terrain, fallen logs and the occasional slope to climb. We must thank the owner of this land for his willingness to have hundreds of College students invade his property for the afternoon and the Karawatha Forest Rangers for their support.

1� QUEENSLAND MUSLIM TIMES – August ‘08/Sha’aban 1429

And it was at the encouragement of close friends who fostered the idea of marriage for this young couple. Their story is not unfamiliar. Quite a number of couples I have spoken to have told me that they met their spouse through friends. “Your friend knows you are looking for someone and sometimes they know friends who know friends who are also looking for someone. You get introduced to one another with friends present and you can decide whether you want to continue getting to know the person,” said Hashim*. Although the concept of “suggested” marriage arranged by family members may seem like an outdated concept, quite a number of young people I spoke to were arranged by their parents. Not arranged in the formal sense as there is no coercion or forced marriage - more like a suggested arrangement, whereby the prospective partners are introduced to each other by their families and can agree to get to know each other or not. “Najwa and I met through our parents. Our parents knew each other and thought that we might be perfect for one another. Many people think that parents have no place in finding your life partner, but I disagree. Your parents know you best and want the best for you,” said Adam.

Brisbane Muslims struggle to find spouseWhile the possible ways in meeting that prospective spouse seem endless, there are many Muslims in the community who find it very difficult to meet that special someone. Unfortunately, not everyone has access to great networks such as family members or close friends. And not everyone attends university or forums. Because the conventional concept of dating is not permissible in Islam, some people are quite perplexed as to how to meet someone for marriage in a “halal” sense.While no statistics can be given to how desperate the situation is, anecdotal evidence suggests that this is a problem in the Muslim community. One brother wrote to the QMT about his situation. He explained that because he is a convert, he doesn’t have the same networks born-Muslims have. And as many functions are segregated, it is extremely difficult for him to meet a sister to marry.

Common challanges “It’s hard navigating what’s allowed and what’s not allowed in Islam. We can’t date to get to know someone, but we can’t even meet someone at a community function because of the barriers at these functions,” said Iman*.Single young Muslims I interviewed also cited segregated events as problematic for meeting someone.

“Events would be a great place for me to meet someone. I can safely talk to someone with my family and friends nearby, yet we can’t do that. We live in a society where boys chat to girls at school or uni and girls chat to boys also. But we separate Muslim girls and boys from each other, rather than letting them get to know one another in a safe environment. It is no wonder we have Muslims marrying outside of Islam,” said Asma*.One sister I spoke to insisted that the community must bear responsibility for this problem.“I know we don’t like to discuss problems in the Muslim community, but until we do, we can’t fix it. As a community, we need to look out for each other,” said Aziza.Muslim communities around the world also face this issue and have come up with some solutions.

Online servicesOnline matchmaking sites such as Naseeb.com, muslima.com, islamsite.com and so forth are extremely popular and have produced successful marriages, including some couples here in Brisbane. In the United States and England, speed dating (or more appropriately termed the marriage banquet) is very popular with religiously conscious Muslims who would like to meet someone to marry with family members still involved in the process. Participants get between 5-10 minutes to know one another and rotate to different tables. There is a checklist in which participants can tick if they meet someone who meets their criteria. At the end of the night, numbers and emails can be exchanged and parents can then set up future meetings if the relationship progresses. While this concept is extremely popular in the US and England, it looks like it may take a while to catch on here in Brisbane. There is, however, an exciting new initiative here in Brisbane to tackle this issue. The Islamic Women’s Association of Queensland (IWAQ) is hosting Dr Muhammad Sadiq with his initiative The Muslim Marriage Toolkit. The toolkit, which involves a series of workshops, will be held on 7th, 8th and 9th of November.

*Names have been changed to protect the identity of the person

The leading Muslim Marriage and Family consultant and clinical psychologist, Dr Muhammad Sadiq is coming to Brisbane in November to conduct his success – rated workshop “the marriage toolbox.” DR Sadiq has more than 30 years of experience in his field and is based in Canada. “The marriage toolbox” is a workshop-based initiative, where men and women, single and married go through interactive lectures, based on the principles of marriage in Islam and modern psychological concepts and techniques.

EARLIER THIS YEAR Nada Ibrahim, a Phd Scholar at Griffith University, contacted Islamic Women’s Association of Queensland (IWAQ) to see if they would be keen to host Dr Sadiq’s workshop. Having worked with IWAQ in the past, Miss Ibrahim found that IWAQ was the natural choice of organisation to work with.

“I am aware of the infrastructure that exists and the probability of the success of this program with them,” she said. Miss Ibrahim felt that her commitment to her PhD did not allow her to commit a hundred percent of her time to the organisation and preparation of this project. Therefore, she preferred to hand the reins of running the show to someone who could do it. She said, “the urgency of having such a programme in Brisbane required that someone commit time to it.”The workshops are designed for those who would like to get married and to have the issue of marriage explained to them, including the criteria of what one should look for in a partner. Prior to the workshop, people interested in the matchmaking process have to fill a Match Making Questionnaire that will be used as a basis for the matchmaking process.Galila Abdalsalam, director of IWAQ said that when Miss Ibrahim approached IWAQ regarding the workshops she saw it as an excellent idea and opportunity. Mrs Abdalsalam said “there is a great need for an initiative such as this to service the Muslim community not only in Brisbane but in Australia as other states could follow the Brisbane pilot.”Muna Ibrahim, IWAQ cordinator said that IWAQ is excited to host the workshop as they recognise that this is a growing problem in the Muslim community. She said they had “received excellent feedback about Dr Sadiq’s initiative and the successes he has achieved.”Miss Ibrahim has been the liaison person between IWAQ and Dr Sadiq as she knows the psychologist personally. Dr Sadiq’s was a visiting scholar at the International Islamic University Malaysia, where Miss Ibrahim completed her Masters of Education in Guidance & Counselling. Mr Sadiq has detailed understanding of the fundamentals of the Quran and Sunnah and utilises this to aid his counselling techniques. Miss Ibrahim said that he uses examples from the life of the Prophet quite a bit in his teaching. “His experience mashaAllah in the field of counselling was very impressive,” said Miss Ibrahim.

Local organisation’s involvement Miss Ibrahim is hoping that other Muslim organisations will get on board once the formal preparations begin. She highlighted that “this initiative is meant to bring together the various Muslim community organisations in Brisbane so that the Muslims in Brisbane own the project.

Muslim Marriages...From Page 1

That will ensure the success of the project inshaAllah.”Chairman of Discover Islam, Fuwaad Mohammed said that they are more than happy to assist with the initiative, and if they are able to collect some funds towards it, they will certainly make a contribution. However they are “unable to make any financial commitment at this stage,” said Mr Mohammed.Although AMARAH is not directly involved with the initiative, they have offered to support IWAQ by advertising the workshop through their networks and lend a hand with the organisational aspect, if it is needed.Shaima Khan, Muslim Youth and Community Development Officer said that MYservices would be pleased to support the initiative, provided that the program “will comply with the clear Islamic guidelines and commended by our local Ulema.”Imam Uzair Akbar of Holland Park Mosque said that if Dr Muhammed Sadiq is providing a facility for this service (matchmaking) and it’s done following the rules of Islam, he sees no problem with it. Imaam Yusuf Peer, the Chairman of Council of Imams Queensland said “it seems that “the marriage toolbox” is great idea and it should give a good insight to the institution of marriage; at this stage I don’t see any reason for the Imams not support this study.”

The WorkshopsDr Muhammed Sadiq set up the Marriage Toolbox Series initiative in Canada. This series has already been conducted in Canada and the latest one in early May in New Jersey, USA, were very successful.The workshops are not only aimed at people who want to get married, it is also for parents who have children of marriageable age, highlighting some of the issues that they need to consider. In addition, there will be workshops specifically for couples who wish to know how to deal with various issues they face in their marriage. Dr Sadiq draws on Islam and psychology to resolve those issues. Miss Ibrahim said the parenting workshop probably would be a popular one, as many mothers have expressed the desire to have workshops on parenting skills and how to deal with problems with child rearing and teenage-issues. “This is an excellent opportunity to gain some much-needed insights and skills,” she said. IWAQ has also decided to include a talk that will be Q&A based to specifically address issues that many reverts have when they marry into Muslim families.

Muslim Matchmaking: Pilot program to start in Brisbane

By Rehana Bibi

to our newly wedsCongratulations

Shanaaz, daughter of Yousuf and Amina Meer and Mohammed, son of Faisal and Fatima Koya at their wedding reception on Sunday 13 July

Submit Your Wedding PictureIf you wish to publish your wedding picture please email it to us at [email protected]

Nada Ibrahim

Jasmine, daughter of Naushad and Sheila Ali, and Faraz, son of Usman and Sahra Ali had their wedding reception on 2nd August in Carseldine.

THE MUSLIM BUSINESS Network will be organising a Gala Eid Dinner on 4 October 2008 at the Commerce Hall, RNA Showgrounds. The Eid Dinner held last year was ‘sold out” with about a 1000 people attending.. The organisers are expecting a similar response this year.Dr. Hanief Khatree, President of MBN stated that”’the feedback received from people attending last year was overwhelmingly positive and we hope to make this years event even better.”The purpose of the function is to get Muslims from all walks of life to come together after a month of fasting and Ibadah in the spirit of Muslim unity. At the same time they can enjoy a good meal and be entertained.“This is a family event and we would like people to bring along their entire family and have a fun filled relaxing evening,” Dr.Khatree said.He refused to say what the surprise entertainment will be this year; but said that no one will be disappointed. Tickets will be on sale from the beginning of Ramadan

MBN Gala Eid Dinner ’08

QUEENSLAND MUSLIM TIMES – August ‘08/Sha’aban 1429 1�

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THE FORMER TEXAN Christian Music Minister and preacher now turned Da’ee (caller to Islam), Sheik Yusuf Estes landed in Brisbane courtesy of Discover Islam Australia (DIA). His schedule lasted a total of seven days, in which he delivered six lectures at various mosques, two speeches on Radio, one live interview on ABC, a day and half dawah workshop for aspiring da’ees, a brief visit to an Islamic School and four lectures to non-Muslims including talks at major university campuses, a school and the iconic Brisbane City Hall. Riding a wave of soaring popularity, his talks drew record crowds at each of the mosques. Unfortunately due to health problems, Estes could not climb stairs at two mosques and this led to audio problems as he had to be accommodated downstairs. He also was not able to meet many people personally for this reason as well. The brighter note is that one person took shahadah at Logan mosque after his talk and another not soon after the talk at the City Hall.In his live interview on Radio ABC, the sheikh emphasised that he was from a deeply religious family before he accepted Islam. However, it was not only him but also his father (a church minister), step-mother, wife, and family friend (an ordained priest) who all accepted Islam within a very short time of each other. “It was a unique opportunity for the people of Brisbane to listen to the sheikh especially the talk at the City Hall,” said Shaibaan Ali, president of Islamic Society of Queensland.His main lecture which was at the Brisbane City Hall drew a crowd of close to 1000 people. The sheikh’s visit has sparked a great interest in Islam. Discover Islam Australia has been inundated with requests for Islamic literature from all parts of Australia including the Northern Territory and numerous questions are

being emailed to it from individuals who desire to broaden their knowledge of Islam.The organisation feels that although Yusuf Estes has left Brisbane, not only has his visit opened a new chapter in spreading the message about Islam to the wider Australian community but it has filled many Muslims with a lot of zeal and enthusiasm to study and share the meaning and message of Islam with Australians.Before leaving for Sydney, Yusuf Estes thanked each and every individual and organisation for their effort, support and assistance in this project. “The work of da’wah never ends”, said Estes.The DIA team thanks SheikYusuf Estes for his efforts in Australia and thanks every individual and organisation that supported this essential project.

Hundreds of people made their way to City Hall to listen to Yusuf Estes. Photo courtesy of CCN

Sheik Yusuf Estes Rocks Brisbane

Last year Discover Islam Australia initiated a community project to assist Muslim males and females in seeking a suitable marriage partner. The whole project is based on the requirements and guidelines of Shariah.

AS PART OF ITS EFFORTS, DIA provided a two day course for the Muslims of Brisbane to learn everything about marriage – from choosing a prospective spouse for marriage and beyond, including guidelines within marriage, spousal rights and the handling of marital disputes as outlined by the Shariah. This course may be repeated within a year. Following the success of the course, individuals seeking spouses were invited to put their application and from then, DIA received numerous calls and applications about its marriage service. As marriage is a sensitive issue, Discover Islam Australia does not rush to get anyone married. Once the application is received, it is scrutinised, details of the applicant are verified and a character and “Islam” check is made on the applicants through other respected members of the community. Thus, the timeframe may prolong for applicants before they get any response, as after all the checks have been made, someone (a prospective bride/groom) needs to consider the applicant as suitable for him/her. Chairman of Discover Islam Australia Fuwaad Mohammed said “DIA is very thankful to Allah that it has been provided with this unique opportunity to assist some Muslims in a very important aspect of their lives. We would also like to thank the Muslim community of Brisbane who have trusted us to continue with this much needed service.”

IWAQ is proud to present Dr. Mohammed Sadiq, the leading Muslim Clinical Psychologist based in Canada with more than 35 years of working experience throughout North America.

His work has helped thousands of all ages suffering from various emotional, mental, behavioural, family and relationship problems around the world. He provides support to many Muslim communities in North America with individual, marital, family and youth counselling. Dr. Sadiq goes into depth about relationship planning and management using the Quran, Sunnah and Modern Psychology. DON’T MISS THIS OPPORTUNITY. BRING YOUR SPOUSE, PARENTS AND CHILDREN!

Friday, 7th November 2008 6.30pm –

“Marriage: the strength and weakness of a community”

Saturday, 8th November 2008 6.30pm-“Marriage: avoiding common

pitfalls”

Sunday, 9th November 2008 6.30 pm -

Marriage issues specific to reverts (Q&A)

Venues: To be advised Admission: FREE!

(REGISTRATION ESSENTIAL)Saturday, 8th November 2008 9am -12 noon Who: Young women planning on marriage

….Lunch, prayers…. 1pm – 4pm Who: Young men planning on marriage

Sunday, 9th November 20089am – 12 noon Who: Parents of children of marrying age

.….Lunch, prayers…. 1pm – 4pm Who: Couples – issues and answers (Q & A)

Monday, 10th November 20086.30pm – “Parenting - issues and answers (Q & A)”

Venues: To be advised Fee: $25 per person per workshop (some concessions available)

Registration: [email protected] or (07) 3272 6355 150 PLACES ONLY!!! SO REGISTER EARLY!

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COMMUNITY Based Halal Matchmaking Service

Mr Mohammed further stated that the service would not function properly if sisters who are available and are interested in getting married do not apply. Currently, male applications greatly exceed applications by females. Due to the sensitivity of the marriage issue, the organisation appointed Imaam Mohammed Ihssan Arafeh of Lutwyche and his wife Omm Zayd to look after the service. While male applicants communicate with the Imaam, the female applicants deal with Om Zayd only. The details are kept strictly confidential and are not revealed to other members of Discover Islam Australia or other individuals/organisations unless it has to do with marriage purposes. Imaam Mohammed Ihssan Arafeh while requesting applications from females ensures them, that he will never proceed with further talks with any male applicant on their behalf, unless and until he is fully satisfied about the brothers “Islam”, character, and genuineness. “I treat every females application as an application having come from my own sister,” he said. Discover Islam Australia provides this service FREE for Muslims of Queensland (mainly Brisbane, Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast). It also assists with nikah and mahr if needed. In sha Allah, in the near future, it is looking at starting a marital counselling service.Discover Islam Australia is an Islamic Australian organisation based in Brisbane dedicated to peace, harmony and goodwill through knowledge of Islam. Discover Islam Australia’s objectives are “to help those seeking the truth about Islam and also to promote Islam to the wider Australian community.” For any further queries, please email [email protected] Dr Mohammed Jibaly: Popular

Islamic scholar visits Brisbane and Gold Coast THE MUSLIM COMMUNITY was enlightened by Dr Mohammed Jibaly, Islamic scholar and a physicist from the University of Madina. Dr Jibaly presented valuable discourses at the Lutwyche and the Gold Coast Mosques. The main themes were: The Social Muslim Family Unit, Parenting, Marital Responsibilities and Proper Understanding and Practice of Islam. Dr Jibaly highlighted the upbringing of children by stating that this responsibility begins with choosing the proper marital partner. He further emphasised that there were insufficient tertiary educational institutes and the methodology of delivering Islamic knowledge and practice thereof was much to be desired. He urged that the communities should consider and act upon this more responsibly, particularly in the western countries.


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QUEENSLAND MUSLIM TIMES – August ‘08/Sha’aban 1429 1�

So whoever of you sights (the crescent on the first night of) the month (of Ramadan i.e. is present at his home), he must observe Saum (fasting) that month, and whoever is ill or on a journey, the same number [of days which one did not observe Saum (fasting) must be made up] from other days. Allah intends for you ease, and He does not want to make things difficult for you. (He wants that you) must complete the same number (of days), and that you must magnify Allah [i.e. to say Takbeer (Allâhu Akbar; Allah is the Most Great)] for having guided you so that you may be grateful to Him”. (Qur’aan, AlBaqarah: 183-185 )

Evidence from Qur’aan and Sunnah The statement of Allah:“O Ye who believe! Fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you that you may become Al Muttaqoon (pious, God fearing).” (AlBaqarah 183)“The month of Ramadan in which was revealed the Qur’aan, a guidance for mankind and clear proofs for the guidance and the criterion (between right and wrong). So whoever of you sights (the crescent on the first night of) the month (of Ramadan i.e. is moqeem (resident/at home)), he must fast that month …” (AlBaqarah 185)The statement of the Prophet (pbuh): 1. from the hadeeth of ibn Umar (R): “Islam is built upon five pillars: testifying that there is no God except Allah and that Muhammad is his Messenger, the establishment of Salaat, the giving of zakaah, the pilgrimage to Makka and the fast of Ramadan.” (Agreed upon – Bukhari & Muslim)2. from the hadeeth of Talha bin Ubaidillah (R):“…. The Bedouin further asked, Inform me what Allah has made compulsory for me as regards fasting.” He replied, you have to fast during the whole month of Ramadan, unless you want to fast more as nawaafil (supererogatory)…” (Agreed upon and the words are from Bukhari) The intention is made on the night before the rise of fajr and for every night of fasting in the whole month. The evidence for this is the hadeeth of Hafsah:“Whoever does not determine to fast before fajr will have no fast.” (i.e. it won’t be accepted). (Ahmad, an Nasaaee, at Tirmidhi, Abu Daud, ibn Majah, and ibn Hibbaan who classified it as saheeh - authentic)

Virtues of fasting Several ahadeeth have been narrated pertaining to its benefits from which are the following. Narrated Abu Huraira (R): Allah’s apostle (pbuh) said, “Allah said, ‘All the deeds of the sons of Adam are for them, except fasting which is for Me, and I will give the reward for it.’ Fasting is a shield or protection from the fire and from committing sins. If one of you is fasting, he should avoid sexual relations with his wife and quarrelling, and if somebody should fight or quarrel with him, he should say, ‘I am fasting.’ By Him in Whose hands my soul is, the smell coming out from the mouth of a fasting person is better in the sight of Allah then the smell of musk. There are two pleasures for the fasting person, one at the time of breaking his fast, and the other at the time when he will meet his Lord; then he will be pleased because of his fasting.” (Bukhari & Muslim, and the words are of Bukhari)Narrated Sahl bin S’ad (R): The Prophet (pbuh) said, “There is a gate in Paradise called Ar – Raiyaan, and those who observe fast will enter through it on the Day of Resurrection and none except them will enter through it. It will be said, ‘Where are those who used to observe fasts?’ They will get up, and none except them will enter through it. After their entry the gate will be closed and nobody will enter through it.” (Agreed upon – Bukhari & Muslim)

Pillars of fasting Abstinence from nullifiers from the start of fajr till magrib (sunset).“…And eat and drink until the white thread (light of dawn) appears to you distinct from the black thread (darkness of night), then complete your fast till the nightfall….” (AlBaqarah 187)Narrated Adi bin Hatim (R): When the above verse (AlBaqarah 187) was revealed, I took two strings, one black and the other white, and kept them under my pillow and went on looking at them throughout the night but could not make anything out of it. So, the next morning I went to Allah’s apostle (PBUH) and told him the whole story. He explained to me, “That verse means the darkness of night and the whiteness of dawn.” (Bukhari & Muslim)

Intention“And they were commanded not, but that they should worship Allah, and worship none but Him alone (abstaining

Ramadan �00�

What invalidates the fast?Intentional eating or drinkingAs for the one who does it out of forgetfulness, then he/she does not have to make up for that day later according to this hadeeth of Abu Hurairah (pbuh). The Prophet (PBUH) said “Whoever forgets he is fasting, and eats or drinks, is to complete his fast as it was Allah who fed him and gave him something to drink.”Intentional vomitingIf one is overcome and vomits unintentionally, he/she does not have to make up for that day according to a hadeeth by Abu Hurairah (pbuh) that the Prophet (pbuh) said, “Whoever is overcome and vomits is not to make up for the day. Whoever, vomits intentionally must make up the day.”

Menses and Post-natal BleedingEven if such bleeding occurs before sunset. There is an ijmaa’ (consensus of scholars) on this issue.

Ejaculation of sperm (non sexual intercourse)This could be due to kissing, hugging, etc. As for the wet dream, it does not void the fast.

That which invalidated the fast and requires the day to be made up later together with an act of expiation The only act that falls under this category is sexual intercourse (while fasting).Abu Hurairah (pbuh)) reported that a man came to the Messenger of Allah (pbuh) and said: “I am destroyed, O Messenger of Allah!” The Prophet (pbuh) asked: “What has destroyed you?” He said, “I had intercourse with my wife (during daylight) in Ramadan.” The Prophet (pbuh) asked: “Are you able to free a slave?” He said, “No.” The Prophet (pbuh) asked: “Is it possible for you to fast for two consecutive months?” He said, “No.” The Prophet (pbuh) asked: “Is it possible for you to feed sixty poor people.” He said, “No.” The Prophet (pbuh) said: “Then sit.” A basket of dates was brought to the Prophet (pbuh) and he said to the man: “Give this in charity.” The man said, “To someone poorer than us? There is no one in this city who is poorer than us!” The Prophet (pbuh) laughed until his molar teeth could be seen and said: “Go and feed your family with it.” (Related by the Group – Bukhari, Muslim, Tirmidhi, Abu Daud, ibn Majah, annasaaee and ibn Majah and Abu Daud have also related “and fast a day in its place.”)

Fiqh of FastingMuslim TimesQueensland

Muslim TimesCompiled in Arabic by Islamic University of Medina translated and summarised by Discover Islam Australia

Compiled in Arabic by Islamic University of Medina translated and summarised by Discover Islam Australia

from ascribing partners to Him)” (AlBayyinah: 5)“…all actions are but by intentions, and every man shall have that which he intended….” (Agreed upon)

On whom is it fasting compulsory?Fasting is compulsory on every Muslim, who has reached the age of puberty, is not insane, is healthy and is a resident (not a traveller).• As for the non-believer, his fasting is not accepted.

This is because fasting is an ibaadah (worship) and all acts of worship by the kuffar are rejected until they embrace Islam.

• As for the child who hasn’t reached the age of puberty, although fasting is not compulsory on him/her, it is preferred that he/she be trained. This comes from the narration of Arrubii’y bint Mu’awwidh (R) who said, “The Prophet (PBUH) sent a messenger to the village of the Ansaar in the morning of the day of Aashuura (10th of Muharram) to announce: “Whoever is observing the fast should complete it and whoever has eaten something should not eat but fast the remainder of the day.” She further said, “Since then we used to fast on that day regularly and also make our children fast. We used to make toys of wool for them and if anyone of them cried for food, he/she was given those toys till it was the time of the breaking of the fast.” (Bukhari & Muslim)

• As for the insane, he is not under any obligation. Ali (R) said that the Prophet (PBUH) said’ “The pen is raised for three groups, (i.e. they will not be responsible for their actions), those who are sleeping until they awaken, the young until they reach puberty, and the insane until they become sane.” (Abu Daud, Annasaaee and atTirmidhi)

• As for those who cannot endure fasting from amongst the old men and women (due to weakness) or those who are suffering from chronic illness and do not expect a recovery, they are permitted to break their fast and upon them is to feed for every day of missed fast, one poor or needy person. And as for those who can fast with difficulty, (e.g. an old man), they have (a choice either to fast or) to feed a Miskeen (poor person) (for every day). (AlBaqarah 184)

• The traveller and the sick who is expected to recuperate are permitted to break the fast, but they have to make up with other days for the days that were missed due to travel or temporary sickness. And whoever is ill or on a journey, the same number [of days which one did not observe Saum (fasting) must be made up] from other days. Allah intends for you ease, and He does not want to make things difficult for you. (Albaqarah 185)

• As for the pregnant or the breastfeeding, if they fear for themselves or their children, they are permitted to break the fast but are to make up for the missed days.

• As for the menstruating or those who are in post natal bleeding, they must break their fast and make up for the missed days later when they are in a state of cleanliness. Aisha (R) said, “When we used to menstruate during the time of the Prophet (PBUH), we were ordered to make up for the missed days of fasting but not for the (missed) prayers.” (Agreed upon – Bukhari & Muslim)

THE QUEENSLAND MUSLIM TIMES management committee wishes all our readers, generous advertisers, well wishing financial supporters and enlightened contributors of many interesting articles a sacred Ramadan, a most joyous and a prosperous Eid Ul Fitr. The directors of the Queensland Muslim Times take this opportunity to thank you all for your continuous support, which has rendered this newspaper most successful for the past four years.

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AT AN INDIVIDUAL LEVEL, Ramadan comes bearing many glad tidings for Muslims all over the world. It helps to polish the heart and remove any debris that has accumulated over the past months or years. It once again brings sheen to the heart so it may be a mirror to the truth of Allah. Ramadan equips the heart with the rain of goodness and prosperity. It provides it with its needs of faith that will bring it close to Allah in humbleness, supplication, recitation of the Qur’an, night prayers, extra prayers, giving in charity, feeding the fasting, controlling of the self, and the tenacious holding on to the love of Allah and His religion. These glad tidings can be summarised as follows:

•Provisions – for the year to come are allocated during this month

•Forgiveness for previous sins:– for those who are fasting and intended to do

so “with faith and seeking the reward from Allah” (Bukhari, 3:31:125).

– for “whoever prayed during the nights in Ramadan with faith and seeks his reward from Allah, will have his past sins forgiven” (Bukhari, 3: 32: 226).

– for “he who passes the night of al-Qadr in prayer with faith and seeks his reward from Allah, will have his past sins forgiven” (Bukhari, 3:31:125).

•Release from hellfire - Allah in His generosity may have forgiven one’s sins, but if one goes back to sin after Ramadan, one may once again fall among the people of hell. However, if Allah has freed one during this month, there is no way that He will put that person there again as He will cause the person’s good deeds to surpass the evil of their deeds. People are freed every night from hellfire in Ramadan (Bukhari, 4: 1682).

•Treasure of Rewards: – Multiplication of good deeds: optional

acts (eg. Sunnah prayers) are rewarded like an obligatory act in other months. For example, the reward for 2 rakats sunnah of zuhr is rewarded that of the 4 fard rakats of zuhr in other months). Any charity in this month is rewarded as if one has given in zakat.

– Multiplication of good deeds: obligatory acts - For the fard prayers – first multiplied by 10 as any good act is (Qur’an, 6:160), then multiplied by 27 times if in congregation, then multiplied by 70 during Ramadan; totalling 94,500 rewards for only praying the obligatory prayers. This is approximately 100,000 equivalent to praying one prayer in the Holy Masjid in Mecca.

– Reward of feeding the fasting person - forgiveness of one’s sins and release of their neck from hell-fire in addition to receiving the same reward as the fasting person without reducing from that person’s reward (Al-Thirmidhi, 3:171). The Prophet said even if a person was to feed the fasting person a date, water or milk, the person will be rewarded same as the fasting person.

•Special reward from Allah – exact reward of which is unknown - “`Every good deed of Adam’s son is for him except fasting; it is for Me, and I shall reward (the fasting person) for it’. Verily, the smell of the mouth of a fasting person is better to Allah than the smell of musk” (Bukhari, 7:72:811). This is perhaps because it is a secret action done for Allah to establish a strong connection & consciousness with Allah

•Fulfilment of supplications – the fasting person is guaranteed the fulfilment of a supplication during the breaking of the fast (Al-Baihaqi, 3:345; Bukhari, 9:93:584) further evidenced in Allah’s statement, “And when My slaves ask you (O Muhammad) concerning Me, then (answer them), I am near (to them by My Knowledge), I respond to the invocations of the supplicant when he calls on Me (without any mediator or intercessor)…” (Qur’an, 2:186).

•Tranquillity and reward of Lailat al-Qadr (Night of Revelation) - is a night, found in the odd nights of the last 10 nights of Ramadan (Bukhari, 3:234), that is better than 1000 months (Qur’an, 97:3), equivalent to approx. 84 years. Anyone who does any worship during that night is like worshipping for 84 years. During this night, any prayers, charity given, Qur’an recited or good deeds done is equivalent to engaging in that act for a person’s entire lifetime in addition to the tranquillity experienced (Qur’an, 97:5).

•Shield from hell-fire – the fast acts like a shield (or screen or shelter) from hellfire (Bukhari, 3:31:118)

•Removal from hellfire for 70 years’ distance – “Every servant of Allah who observes fast for a day in the way of Allah, Allah will remove his face away from hell to the extent of 70 years’ distance because of that day” (Muslim, 2:808).

•Exclusive entry – through the gate of al-rayaan inside paradise – Only those who truly fasted are the ones who are going to be permitted entry (Bukhari, 3:31:120), so they may be rewarded for abstaining from all their desires during Ramadan purely to gain the pleasure of Allah.

•Attainment of patience – through restraining oneself from food, drink, and various desires of the senses, one not only attains patience but achieves the rewards for patience: paradise (Qur’an, 11:11)

•Attain highest level of fasting – Not only is the body fasting from food, drink and sexual desires; the organs such as the eyes, hands, feet, tongue, ears are all fasting; including the core of all organs: the heart. It is exclusively engaged in thinking of Allah alone, for if the heart is sound, so will all the other parts of the body be sound (Bukhari, 1:2:49). Every deed is exclusively dedicated to Allah alone.

•Reminder of importance of the Qur’an– this is the month when the Qur’an was revealed (Qur’an, 2:185; 97:1)

•Intercession in Day of Judgement – a person’s fast will say on the Day of Judgement, “O Lord! I prevented him/her from his/her food and physical desires during the day, so let me intercede for him/her” (Ahmad, 2:174) and it will be granted.

•Reminder of great accomplishments – it was during this month that great victory was accomplished. Some of the great battles were won during this month, e.g. Battle of Badr, the Conquest of Makkah, the Conquest of al-Andalus, etc.

Ramadan �00�Preferable Deeds for One who is Fasting

Pre dawn meal (suhoor)Narrated Anas bin Maalik (R): The Prophet (PBUH) said “Take suhoor as there is blessing in it.” (Bukhari & Muslim)

Delaying suhoorZaid bin Thabit (R) said, “We took the suhoor with the Prophet (PBUH) then he stood for the prayer.” I asked, “What was the interval between the suhoor and the adhaan?” He replied, the interval was sufficient to recite fifty verses of the Quraan.” (Bukhari & Muslim)(Translators note – the adhaan mentioned here is the adhaan which is given as soon as fajr approaches. It should not be misunderstood to be the same time for fajr in the local mosques because mosques adjust their time to suit the locals)Narrated Abu Dhar (R): The Prophet (PBUH) used to say, “My Ummah will remain on the right path as long as they delay the suhoor and hasten in breaking of the fast. (Ahmad)

Hastening to break the fastNarrated Sahl bin Saad (R): Allahs apostle (PBUH) said, The people will remain on the right path as long as they hasten the breaking of the fast” (Agreed upon – Bukhari & Muslim)

What to break fast with?Break fast with ripe dates but if one cannot find that, then dried dates and if one can’t get that then break fast with water. This is from the hadeeth of Anas (R) who said, “The Prophet (PBUH) used to break fast with ripe dates and if these were not available then dried dates and if it was also not available, he used to drink water after which he prayed.” (Abu Daud, Alhaakim who recorded it as saheeh (authentic), and Tirmidhi)

Supplication at the time of breaking fast (and while fasting)This comes from the hadeeth of ibn Umar (R) who said, “The Prophet (PBUH) at the time of breaking fast would say “the thirst has gone, the glands are wet, and Allah willing, the reward is confirmed” (Abu Daud, alhaakim and Baihaqi)

If someone fights him or abuses him Abu Huraira (R) that the Prophet (PBUH) said, “... So the person observing fast should avoid sexual relations with his wife and should not behave foolishly or impudently, and if somebody fights with him or abuses him, he should say “I am fasting…” (Bukhari & Muslim)

SiwaakIt is preferred for the fasting person to use a tooth stick or a brush as narrated by ‘Aamir bin Rabee’aah (R) (Ahmad, Abu Daud and Tirmidhi).

Generosity and the Qur’aanThey are recommended at all times but in Ramadan it is recommended more strongly. Narrated ibn Abbas (R): “The Prophet (PBUH) was the most generous amongst the people, and he used to be more so in the month of Ramadan when Jibreel visited him, and Jibreel used to meet him on every night of Ramadan till the end of the month. The Prophet (PBUH) used to recite the Holy Qur’aan to Jibreel, and when Jibreel met him, he used to be more generous than a fast wind (which causes rain and welfare). (Bukhari)

Striving in worship during the last ten days of RamadanAisha (R) reported, “The Messenger of Allah would wake his wives up during the night and then remain apart from them (i.e. being busy in acts of worship) (Bukhari & Muslim)

Feeding the fasting peopleZaid bin Khalid (R) reported that the Prophet (PBUH) said “He who feeds one who is fasting will have a reward equal to him (one who is fasting – Saaim) without any reward of the latter (one who is fasting – Saaim) being reduced.” (Tirmidhi)

Glad Tidings of RamadanBy Nada Ibrahim

Compiled in Arabic by Islamic University of Medina translated and summarised by Discover Islam Australia

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