frm the he/art

the Start of Faith: Establishing your Beliefs beyond any doubt

2009-01-22T15:21:00.061Z

in His Name, Bismillah ir Rahman ir Raheem,

There are many stages on the journey to true faith. This is important to understand for those of us who, perhaps, don't yet have a faith but want to search for truth; for those who have grown up within a religion and now they're older wish to build their faith; or those who have encountered doubts or a low in their lives and need to strengthen their identity and ideology. The following will explain the basic steps which prepare the foundation for faith, then strengthen it.

It should be noted that although this is discussed within the context of religious faith, it is entirely general. Parallels to these steps can be taken to build any belief which plays a dominant role in man's interactions and daily life.

* * *

Stage 1: Ask the Big Question

This is of great importance as a starting point. First, we must clearly describe the belief we wish to develop in its most basic form. For religious belief, this most fundamental question would be, "Does God Exist?"

If we haven't asked ourselves the fundamental question and tried to find facts to give our answer, our beliefs will never be anything more than habits or phrases learnt blindly from our parents. This kind of belief is not sufficient for any adult to count as faith, so everyone must start this journey as he or she starts to grow up in order to develop into a human being, and a Believer. In many places the Quran condemns people who have no reasons for their beliefs, and blindly follow their parents or the habits of their past.

When it is said to them: "Follow what Allah hath revealed:" They say: "Nay! we shall follow the ways of our fathers." What! even though their fathers Were void of wisdom and guidance?

Holy Quran, 2:170

Stage 2: Establish the Facts

Now you have a question to think about, measures need to be taken to establish the facts. Look at the world around you, think deeply about its characteristics and nature, and the rules by which it exists.

In the case of establishing belief in God, you may study the wonders of nature in depth, considering the incredible complexity of even the smallest part of creation; the complete harmony of the laws of nature that govern everything from sunrise to tidal waves to supernovae in the skies and the many forms of distant stars and galaxies in our universe. Think about this deeply, and decide whether it is logical that these things happened by accident, on their own, or just popping out of nothing. Think about the implications of saying the universe just "happened" one day: if a tennis ball flew past your face would you believe it just popped out of nowhere? or would you look to see where it came from, for someone who threw it towards you? If you decide that you would never believe even a simple tennis ball came from nowhere, you must reject the idea that this wonderous universe which is infinitely greater and more complex came from nothing.

This path of looking for proof will be different for each of us. For those of us who are scientists, we may consider the laws of the universe such as E=mc2, which has the consequence that neither energy nor matter can ever be created or destroyed within the laws of the universe - so because of this rule the universe could not have created itself, and therefore needs an external Creator, who would be God. For those who study philosophy, we may consider the chain of cause and effect, and realise that you need one independent Cause to start things off, who is God. An artist may appreciate the symmetry and exquisite beauty of the world and creation, and realise there is no way this could have come randomly but must be a sign of the existence of a Great Artist; a wonderous Intelligence and Creative power who designed the world.

There are an infinite number of different ways to approach this, but the common theme to all of them is to think deeply about the signs of the world which you understand: art for the artist, science for the scientist and so on, collecting the facts until you realise that the world is no accident, and was deliberately created by a supreme Intelligence and Power.

A useful resource to read here is Tawheed al Mufaddal, a discussion between Imam Jafar as Sadiq (as) and one of his famous companions about the wonders of creation, leading each observation through to its logical conclusion about the existence and nature of God.

This is something you need to do in your own way, but do not give up until you have gathered enough evidence to expel your doubts and convince you of the answer. This is not something which will happen in 5 minutes, but is of paramount importance. This is and will always be the backbone of your faith. Establish it properly once, and it will last you all your life.

Stage 3: Explore the Consequences

Now you should be convinced of the basic part of your faith: that as sure as this universe around you exists, God must also exist to have created it. Every time you look around you, you should start to realise that everything you see is proof of God. But so far all we know is that God exists and made the world, we haven't established anything else. The next stage is to look at creation again, this time from the angle that it was created by Someone, an Intellect who did things this way for a reason, then by looking at the way things are created we can start to understand His motivation and aspects of His character.

Now if the artist thinks about the beautiful flower, he realises that God specifically chose to create its beautiful colour and pleasing scent: and that God also deliberately chose to give us senses that would appreciate this beauty - the artist then realises that God loves beauty, and is kind and wishes human beings to experience joy at beholding it.

If the scientist thinks about the wonderous laws of nature, none contradicting each other, working in harmony together being flawless and perfect and orderly to keep the universe running, he realises that God is wise and knowing and intelligent and loves harmony, and wishes all in creation to work together.

If the philosopher thinks about the temporary and dependent existence of everything in the world, he realises that God is eternal and unchanging, is completely Independent of needs and He is the one who satisfies the needs of all others.

Do this from all angles you can think of, being very careful to scrutinise your reasoning and logic along the way. A good guide is to look at the 99 beautiful Names of Allah, and think about the proofs in creation for each one of those. This should ensure that you haven't come to a false conclusion through flawed logic. Other useful resources are Knowing God and God and His Attributes.

Now we have a better idea of who God is, His supreme kindness, wisdom, power and gentleness; we can come to understand why we should worship and obey Him and nobody else, not even our own desires. This is the basic Islamic belief, La ilaha Il Allah, there is no god except Allah.

Stage 4: Establishing the rest of the fundamental beliefs

Now you have established the most fundamental basic belief of Islam - Monotheism - it is time to find proof and certainty about the other major beliefs of Islam such as the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him and his progeny) and the Quran as the book of God. For now lets start with these two, for establishing these without doubt means that anything in the Quran is automatically true, for example heaven, hell and Judgement; and anythinng we can prove was said by the Prophet (pbuh) is also (the truthfulness of the people in the chain of narrators then becomes the only issue when it comes to hadeeth).

In the case of the Quran, the answer is relatively simple. We should first read about the unique characteristics of the Quran, such as its style, consistency, the historical predictions it contains, and other features which characterise the book. Then, as the Quran itself states,

"And if ye are in doubt as to what We have revealed from time to time to Our servant, then produce a chapter like thereunto; and call your witnesses or helpers (if there are any) besides Allah, if your (doubts) are true."

Holy Quran 2:23

It is a fact that nobody has ever been able to imitate the style and content of the Quran, throughout the whole of history. According to history (which you should research to convince yourself) the great poets and literary masters in Classical Arabic at the time of the Quran's revelation were completely dumbfounded by it, and unable to generate even one comparable verse, even though this was their mother tongue and they were renowned for their eloquence and beautiful poetry.

Follow arguments such as these to convince yourself the Quran is the word of God, and you can then use the Quran as proof for the existence of Angels, heaven, hell, Judgement Day and other important beliefs. This way, you have firm reasons and certainty that these beliefs are true, and come from the Ultimate Truth (al Haqq, one of Allah's Names, see stage 3).

In the case of the Prophet (pbuh), we should think about Allah's creation of the universe and the methods He gives us to know what He would like us to do. He gave us conscience, an internal and instinctive knowledge of good, to guide our actions. He gave us intellect, which allows us to reason and form arguments to know the best thing to do in any given situation. But for some questions, for example, the permissibility of abortion in the case of rape or health problems for the mother, conscience and intellect don't leave us with a clear answer. If we are to be judged as the Quran says, it would be unfair to do so without first telling us the rules which we have to obey (note: remember Allah's name Al-Adl, the Just, from stage 3). Keep thinking along these lines with your own arguments, until you are sure Allah has to send a set of rules to mankind to guide them. Prophets are simply the most trustworthy and honest people to deliver this most important message to the rest of mankind, and be a good example to them to behave in a way which God loves.

Knowing this, read about the life of the Prophet (pbuh). See if he fits the description of a pure, trustworthy and honest guide. See if he ever acted for himself, his own reward, glory or any reason other than delivering Allah's message. And don't forget to read history and understand there is absolutely no doubt that he was the one to bring us the Quran, which we previously established is the word of God and which tells us about the Prophet (pbuh). The Quran contains a chapter by the name of Muhammad (pbuh), and repeatedly refers to him in affectionate and supportive terms. The Quran actually states within it that the Prophet (pbuh) does not speak out of his own desire, but he only speaks that which is revealed to him; and that he has a most exalted character.

A useful resource in this stage is the book, The Seal of the Prophets and his Message, and the biography of the Prophet (pbuh), The Message.

Once you read about the life of this great and wonderful, selfless and noble, kind and loving guide you will understand that if ever God sent a messenger and example to mankind, it would most definitely be him. Now we have firm faith in the second part of the testament of faith, Muhammadun Rasool Allah (Muhammad is the Messenger of God), and the Quran as the book of God and all it teaches about Angels, Heaven, Hell, Judgement, past Messengers, Justice, Love, Forgiveness and much more.

* * *

In the following post, inshaAllah we will discuss strengthening and developing these beliefs, until they become a part of you and your identity.

* * *

its been a long time coming
Footsteps: May '07
and even before

ready your swordz

2008-12-24T20:18:00.004Z

I know u.
For what I saw in your words mirroring me
I know
U wait for him too.
so as 1 to the same and another of another form, I ask u
in the name
of this son of Zahra for who
I know you can't
Refuse 2 use what
He gave u.

brotha,
Ready
Your
Swordz.

* * *

c'mon!

connecting

2008-11-24T11:25:00.005Z

Saturday 26th July
In the haram of Imam Reza (as), at zohr.

This time, I had been able to enter the haram as I wished, to get pulled into the melee and drunk on the same crazed spirit that makes normal, civillised people behave like lunatics to get to and cling to the zarih. Other times, this choice had been made for me. You would think that I would have learnt the lesson better by this stage.

On the first day, with great anticipation, hope and desire to perform ziara on behalf of all, I had entered the throng, and basked in the Imam's proximity. The second day, I had not prepared myself sufficiently, and all of a sudden found myself at the haram door with my thoughts scattering. Reading the permission to enter proved it; even after the small rise of emotion on asking the imam (as) as the son of Fatimatul Zahra, by the right of Fatimatul Zahra (as), it was very evident the invitation was a grace from the imam and I had limited my own experience and connection.

This was the third time we were to enter the haram.

I was intent upon not repeating the mistake of the second time, in an attempt to recapture a little of the spirit of the first. I made my way towards the soaring golden arch, with the white-hot morning sun resplendent, high above it. Just before entering a spot caught my eye – an area to sit within the row of worshipers, on the right hand side, a short distance from the door. The feeling came to me that I should sit in it, but I couldn't reconcile this with not yet having done ziarah. I pushed it aside and entered the door, into the mad crowds. I found spaces and pauses in the crushing in which to read my ziarah, but neither relaxed, nor truly comfortably, nor personally. Throughout I couldn't shake the feeling that I should be outside. Eventually this feeling overcame me, and I moved outside after the core ziarah, to read the final salutations.

My place was still empty, waiting for me, welcoming me. I sat in it and completed the ziarah and prayer more peacefully and calmly. By this time it was almost noon, with the beaming, burning sun hanging high above our heads, as I sat amongst the pilgrims in the shade of the golden archway, at its edge: in the cool breezed shade, inches away from the cloven half of sunlight.

Looking up at the sun in its zenith, glinting off the soaring gold, I had a vision; of the insanity of crowds, crushing each other in the race towards the grave, clamouring to have their many requests heard and granted, thinking of the fulfilment of their own needs, then to go home and think of little more; as an outsider to it – for a second seeing the difference in behaviour for the real servant of the Imam (as), one who was truly there to do as commanded and await his call, who would pull away from the crush to reach the physical grave, and hang back for just that, not breathing a word for his own sake: knowing that the Imam (as) saw him where he stood, knew his state fully, knew he was ready to serve, and if needed, knew he would call for him.

All these people had come for the Imam (as), mistaking his grave for his presence... all these mad crowds directed one way; between them those with vision would pull aside and wait, distant from the drunken madness and seeing it for what it was; behaving like a human being and faithful servant; patiently, politely, waiting for contact and a command from the Imam (as).

I saw the difference between serving yourself in the Imam's presence and serving him, and realised to truly be his follower you could not follow the crowd and ask only for your own desires, but instead must always be thinking,

“How can I serve my Imam?”

“What can I do to serve you, O Imam?”

“I am ready, and waiting for your command.”

* * *

On Sunday, for the first time ever, I chose not to enter the haram building, although I could, and performed ziara outside; again in the shade of the golden arch, and the glorious presence of the Imam (as).

* * *

July 2008

to the only believer in the world...

2008-11-24T09:59:00.004Z

... and all who have ever felt, "it is I"

these words are all dedicated to you

they have always been.

These pages are here in the hope that one day,
should you need it,
you might look at them
and see

you are not so alone.

* * *

Satan likes to make us feel we are completely alone and outnumbered. He likes to have us think we are engaged in an impossible struggle, and there is nobody else on the face of the earth who sees it, who knows what we're going through, nobody who is fighting for the same goal. This is the biggest lie. There are hundreds of others, all around us, unknown to us, feeling the same way; struggling alone. This is the secret face of ourselves we do not show to the outside world, all of us. Satan makes us feel there is nobody who would understand, nobody we can open up to who would not stare blankly or dismiss what we say. Another lie. It is quite likely we know someone else who feels like us, especially those who have traveled with us, shared great experiences, or thinks along the same lines. If you know another, keep in contact and support each other. If you do not, know that there are hundreds just like you, all over the face of the earth, in its hills and plains, in the easts and wests, lands and seas, all of you struggling towards the same goal. By the verse 3:68 and the chapter Al Kawthar, the earth is full of true followers of Muhammad (saw).

* * *

"O Allah send our master the leader, the guide, the guided, the upriser with Your command. Blessings of Allah be on him and his pure forefathers from all the believing men and believing women. In the easts of the earth and it's wests, in its plains and its mountains, its lands and its seas, from me and my parents. Blessings,which are the weight of Allah's throne and ink of His words, and whatever His knowledge enumerates and His book encompases."-- Dua Ahd

* * *

Nov '08

waswasah

2008-09-28T00:53:00.003Z

otherwise known as, the Macbeth effect

* * *

(07:40:58 PM) blissful: have u read Macbeth?
(07:41:18 PM) blissful: all the witches do at the start is put a wild idea into his head (...“you could be king”...)
(07:41:22 PM) blissful: and thats it
(07:41:33 PM) blissful: he takes it, and the rest follows
(07:41:40 PM) blissful: this is just like Satan's work, how he traps us
(07:41:48 PM) blissful: it is his suggestion
(07:41:55 PM) blissful: and our ego which accepts it, and acts upon it
(07:42:13 PM) blissful: and thats all it takes to make a nobleman with wife and loyal battle hero
(07:42:27 PM) blissful: into a treacherous murdering animal
(07:42:47 PM) blissful: on his own at the end
(07:43:07 PM) blissful: if he'd just ignored them there would have been nothin -he would have been happy, as he was at first

(07:43:12 PM) blissful: u see what I'm sayin?

* * *

conversations

Ego revisited

2008-08-28T18:23:00.004Z

Most major sins and conflicts which may appear in daily life are rooted in the ego, and based upon the fact that man is inwardly focussed and deeply absorbed in himself, at the expense of his appreciation of the outer realities and outside world.

In relations with God, particularly prayer, being self-focussed self-aware results in man being absorbed in his own thoughts and not paying attention to his words and acts. There is no communion with God in such prayers, as man has turned his attention inwards and made his own ego the focus of the time spent in the actions of worship. Those self focussed will be automatically inclined to please themselves in any given situation. For such people there is no pressing deterrent to committing sin if the immediate gains of the act are pleasing; as they have lost sight of God and do not act to please Him. The self-absorbed may dwell in a state of delusion about their sins, redefining what is good and evil according to their self-limited awareness and understanding, and begin to commit even great sins openly and without shame or realising how they are humiliating themselves. They may try to argue their stance to others as a form of self-justification, using superficial and subjective reasoning.

In the extreme, the self-absorbed person may commit terrible sins against God and his own soul openly, without shame, repentance or acknowledging his wrong.

Man in this state has taken his lower self as an idol before God, in a state diametrically opposed to the religious ideal of servitude and worship; humility and being God-focussed and God-aware.

This paragraph is a proof upon every soul, for the mirror it holds up for us. Who amongst us is free of this -- when on the other side are only
the 14 and His, who gave their selves up
for His sake

* * *

See yourself in it
Know Yourself
the Potential,
the reality.
. . .

Know Your Enemy

2008-08-16T14:55:00.003Z

* * *

And the Shaitan shall say after the affair is decided: Surely Allah promised you the promise of truth, and I gave you promises, then failed to keep them to you, and I had no authority over you, except that I called you and you obeyed me, therefore do not blame me but blame yourselves: I cannot be your aider (now) nor can you be my aiders; surely I disbelieved in your associating me with Allah before; surely it is the unjust that shall have the painful punishment.

Holy Quran, 14:22

* * *

(1) And when your Lord said to the angels: Surely I am going to create a mortal of the essence of black mud fashioned in shape.
So when I have made him complete and breathed into him of My spirit, fall down making obeisance to him.
So the angels made obeisance, all of them together,
(2) But Iblis (did it not); he refused to be with those who made obeisance.

He said: O Iblis! what excuse have you that you are not with those who make obeisance?

(3) He said: I am not such that I should make obeisance to a mortal whom Thou hast created of the essence of black mud fashioned in shape.

He said: Then get out of it, for surely you are driven away:
(4) And surely on you is curse until the day of judgment.

(5) He said: My Lord! then respite me till the time when they are raised.

He said: So surely you are of the respited ones
Till the period of the time made known.

(6) He said: My Lord! because Thou hast made life evil to me, I will certainly make (evil) fair-seeming to them on earth, and I will certainly cause them all to deviate
(7) Except Thy servants from among them, the devoted ones.

(8) He said: This is a right way with Me:
Surely. as regards My servants, you have no authority over them except those who follow you of the deviators.

And surely Hell is the promised place of them all:
It has seven gates; for every gate there shall be a separate party of them.
Surely those who guard (against evil) shall be in the midst of gardens and fountains:
Enter them in peace, secure.
And We will root out whatever of rancor is in their breasts-- (they shall be) as brethren, on raised couches, face to face.
Toil shall not afflict them in it, nor shall they be ever ejected from it.

Inform My servants that I am the Forgiving, the Merciful,
And that My punishment-- that is the painful punishment.

Holy Quran, 15:28-50

* * *

(1) History - past background
(2) disobedience, opposition to God & angels
(3) racism & arrogance -- Ego
(4) such is cursed and rejected
(5) the plot unfolds
(6) supreme disbelief: blaming Allah for his own sins
the promise to mislead mankind.
The manner of tricking us to sin: he makes evil appear good.
Know Your Enemy.
(7) the limits of his power -- you can be free
(8) the promise & the threat
Allah will help and protect the good
and He will punish the bad

and this is the setting for our lives.

* * *

lessons from daily 50,
16/08/08

The nemesis of Ego ...the true & ugly nature part III

2008-08-16T14:40:00.006Z

Humility Personified

The prophet Moses (as) is the Quranic example of humility personified, the only trait capable of opposing the supreme ego of Pharaoh and defeating it. Prophet Moses (as) was raised like a prince in the palace of Pharaoh, under the wing of one of the most self-centered and egotistical characters in the whole of history; yet remaining considerate and aware enough of the rights of others – even those of a lower class in society -- not to behave similarly. Instead of arrogance and the status of a living god which was set before him, Moses (as) humbly accepted his identity as one of the Bani Israel, the oppressed and humiliated slaves, referring to them as “his people”(5:20). When he came to the aid of one of his kinsmen and accidentally killed another man, Moses (as) immediately accepted the mistake of his actions with the words, “This is a work of Evil (Satan): for he is an enemy that manifestly misleads!” (28:15). He did not deny it, oppressing the victim further by concocting lies to blame the deceased, nor belittle the life taken using his standing in the house of Pharaoh to argue he was entitled to behave as he did. Moses (as) was considerate enough of people's rights and aware enough of the world to have firm belief in God before he met or became a prophet, knowing that by killing a man he had exceeded the limits of his position. He immediately begged repentance of Allah, acknowledging his error and immediately wishing to rectify his actions as best he could (28:16-7). Moses (as) did not expect or believe he deserved preferential treatment; he was respectful of the law, the rights of others, and was afraid of the consequences of his act, albeit unintentional (28:18, 28:21).

When he ran away, Moses (as) was not so arrogant as to believe that he could command sustenance or provide for himself through his own power, instead humbly placing his trust in God, the true provider, saying, “O my Lord! truly am I in (desperate) need of any good that Thou dost send me!” (28:24). Further, despite his difficult and distressing situation, the prophet Moses (as) was neither self-absorbed nor oblivious to the condition of others around him, and helped some ladies to water their flock without asking for a reward regardless of his need for it. This is the pinnacle of selfless behaviour – defeating even reactionary egotism and behaving with the utmost consideration instead: being aware of the lordship of God, and considering the situation of others even when your own is much worse, to the point of not asking for recompense even though you are in great need, and they may be able to provide it.

At the assumption of his prophethood, Moses (as) went into spontaneous prostration on the ground with his forehead in the dust, as an expression of his complete submissiveness and humility, being the first to do so amongst men. For his perfect humility, Allah awarded Moses (as) the honorable status of Kalim Allah – the only man ever to be directly spoken to by God, not through the means of revelation via angels. And in the fashion of true humility, the first reaction of Moses (as) to the news that he is a prophet of God is to regard his own worth as small compared to others, and ask for the assistance of his brother Aaron (as), who he considered to have eloquence and capabilities above his own (28:34).

Moses (as) had to stand his ground against the man who had been like a father to him, but did so without disrespect, nor showing egotism in his reactions and becoming a rival to Pharaoh by behaving in a manner similar to him. Instead he simply, humbly, carried out the orders of Allah; being unmoving in his principles, without spite, malice or injustice; asking for the release of the Bani Israel and the acceptance of all humans as equally worthy under the banner of servitude of God.

With the perfection of humility, man will ensure he never acts purely for his own gain to the detriment of others. He will ally himself with justice and the laws of God, encouraging considerate and moral behaviour through his actions, enjoining equality, justice and respect for all beings; promoting harmony, good relations and equity between all. The humble man will inspire love for himself in the hearts of the oppressed through honouring their rights, the respect and obedience of his fellow men for enjoining the unbiased and just truth which benefits them as well as he, and the unity of his society under his direction as a selfless champion for good and an honest servant of God.

The adoption of humility protects and establishes faith, familial and societal relations, respecting the rights of God and all men, uniting, safeguarding and elevating the status of mankind as a whole.

* * *

The Critical Point

Ego is the root of most social & religious ills. It results in unjust, amoral and inconsiderate behaviour. Adoption of humility not only preserves the spirit of religious duty, worship, and societal structure; but also safeguards the rights of individuals and forms the basis for strong, understanding and affectionate friendships and familial relations. Humble behaviour in practice manifests itself simply as good manners and respect for others. Those whose behaviour becomes characterised by their humility will become respected personalities, beloved leaders of men and devoted servants of God who establish His laws in the community. It is for this reason that considering the rights of God and others and having good manners are stressed so much in Islamic teachings; being the practical method through which the religious ideals are upheld.

It is for these reasons that ego and selfishness should be combated in all considerate human beings, particularly believers, who wish to respect the rights of others and the orders of God.

* * *

Summer '08

Ego by Example... the true & ugly nature part II

2008-07-10T20:25:00.004Z

Ego personified

There are two main examples of supremely egotistical people in the Quran, in the form of some of the most evil characters in history.

Iblees is the first. He refused to obey Allah out of arrogance: “(Iblis) said: "I am better than he: thou createdst me from fire, and him thou createdst from clay."” (38:76). He did not apologise or repent when Allah expelled him from the garden. He did not ask forgiveness like Adam and Eve, but instead asked for respite until the day of Judgement so that he could lead men astray out of even more spite (7:14-16; 15:36-40). He is the epitome of arrogance and blind pride, refusing to back down even when he suffers the greatest loss through his stance, never once repenting from the beginning of mankind's history until this day, even though he had been warned of the punishment for disobedience (7:18). In true self-absorbed fashion, he refuses to acknowledge his own accountability for his devious acts, in his arrogance even accusing Allah of leading him astray.

“He said: My Lord! Because Thou hast sent me astray...” (15:39)

Becoming self-focussed and behaving in an arrogant and selfish fashion is to behave like Iblees, and behaving as he would wish mankind to. It is tantamount to worship of Satan.

“"Did I not enjoin on you, O ye Children of Adam, that ye should not worship Satan; for that he was to you an enemy avowed? - and that ye should worship Me, (for that) this was the Straight Way?” (36:60-61)

* * *

The second is the Pharaoh of Moses (as). He was the most egotistical and arrogant man, claiming he was god, refusing to accept the truth despite the clear miracles brought by Moses – the staff, his hand, the 7 plagues and parting of the sea; “And they said( to Moses): Whatever sign you may bring to us to charm us with it-- we will not believe in you” (7:132). Despite the truth clearly appearing before him, he turned his face from it and insisted upon falsehood. When Moses first brought the miracle of the staff, he refused to accept it and sent for the most learned magicians in his kingdom. When the magicians saw the miracle of Moses and immediately knew the truth of his message and submitted to it, Pharaoh not only refused to do the same, but threatened the magicians with torture and death (7:123-4). He stubbornly denied and rejected all but his own preferred version of reality, reverting to his unbelief despite having to ask Moses to pray to God to lift the plagues (7:134-5).

“Then he (Pharaoh) said, “I am your lord, the most high”. So Allah seized him with the punishment of the hereafter and the former life.” (79:24-5)

* * *

Ego in Reactions

It is not necessarily the case that a person is always egotistical, nor always considerate and selfless. Through various times of a person's life they may adopt either approach, and one should not think that they are completely free of egotistical behaviour simply because most of the time they behave considerately. By the same token, one should not consider a person completely egotistical and self-centered based on their behaviour at any given time. It may be that the usually caring and attentive mother snaps at her child because she was interrupted in the middle of a dangerous task.

In times of difficulty or distraction the ego is more likely to take over and cause bad behaviour, for example when stressed, worried, in physical or emotional pain, concentrating on a difficult task or rushing to meet a deadline. In these cases, albeit temporarily, our attention is greatly diverted to the matter at hand, and can result in inconsiderate or bad behaviour to those around us. We should understand, even when so preoccupied, that others still deserve respect and consideration regardless of the situation we find ourselves in.

Ego may also take over when we are faced with what we see as undeserved obnoxious or unfair treatment from another person. In times like this the most common reflex reaction is to meet like with like, and reflect a bad attitude back to the person who has offended us. This may take the form of accusations or abuse, refusing to acknowledge our bad deeds, refusal to apologise, behaving more stubbornly than usual, refusing to compromise or discuss the matter – all severely egotistical behaviour, employed simply because this is the standard set by the other party. Although we have not initiated the conflict in this case, we should not see our behaviour as justified: a person may have infringed upon our right to be treated with fairness and dignity, but it is equally an infringement of their rights for us not to behave so towards them. Reacting badly in an instant destroys the channels of communication and apology, whereas a little consideration of the possible reasons for the bad behaviour of the other party could lead to dialogue and resolution of the conflict, with the dignity of all intact. When faced with kindness or humility in the face of their bad behaviour, people who are usually considerate but facing some form of difficulty would most likely be prompted to examine their behaviour, apologise and rectify it; thereby restoring respectful societal relations.

Ego on the part of both someone suffering and someone ill-treated by one who is suffering, damages their relationships with each other, closes the channels of communication, ends friendships, promotes malice and lack of understanding; ultimately causing rifts between people and thereby degrading the fabric of the community.

The adoption of egotism destroys faith, familial and societal relations, denies rights and humiliates mankind as a whole.

* * *

to remember -- watch that ego
you are not free of it
May '08.

The true and ugly nature of Ego

2008-07-06T15:05:00.006Z

Most major sins and conflicts which may appear in daily life are rooted in the ego, and based upon the fact that man is inwardly focussed and deeply absorbed in himself, at the expense of his appreciation of the outer realities and outside world.

In relations with God, particularly prayer, being self-focussed self-aware results in man being absorbed in his own thoughts and not paying attention to his words and acts. There is no communion with God in such prayers, as man has turned his attention inwards and made his own ego the focus of the time spent in the actions of worship. Those self focussed will be automatically inclined to please themselves in any given situation. For such people there is no pressing deterrent to committing sin if the immediate gains of the act are pleasing; as they have lost sight of God and do not act to please Him. The self-absorbed may dwell in a state of delusion about their sins, redefining what is good and evil according to their self-limited awareness and understanding, and begin to commit even great sins openly and without shame or realising how they are humiliating themselves. They may try to argue their stance to others as a form of self-justification, using superficial and subjective reasoning.

In the extreme, the self-absorbed person may commit terrible sins against God and his own soul openly, without shame, repentance or acknowledging his wrong.

Man in this state has taken his lower self as an idol before God, in a state diametrically opposed to the religious ideal of servitude and worship; humility and being God-focussed and God-aware.

In relations with others, the self-focussed person will be oblivious to the state of those around him. He will inconvenience or spite them unintentionally, as it is outside his nature to consider their needs or situation. He will dismiss the impact of tragedies in the lives of others; being unable to see himself in their position and so understand their suffering. However, he will be quick to take exception at small things others may do (intentionally or not so) which he feels are burdensome or offensive to him. He will be oblivious to his own deeds which may affect others similarly, and will likely become offended or start acting with hostility if confronted over his actions – in which he perceives no wrong. Due to this mental state, self-focussed people will seldom see their own mistakes in a conflict situation. They will consider themselves victims, will never apologise nor initiate reconciliation, and will only accept the apology of the other party after long persuasion in which those apologising party cannot in any way defend their past actions. The self-focussed person will cause a great deal of emotional pain and difficulties for their loved ones often without realising, straining familial relationships perhaps even to breaking point.

In the extreme, the self-absorbed person may commit terrible crimes and injustices against other people or society in general, without hesitation, regret or acknowledging his wrong.

Man in this state has taken himself as a king above all others. He decides his comfort, happiness and pleasure are much more real and worthy of consideration than that of others, which he cannot appreciate and so dismisses. Such behaviour, even if not intentional or based on malice, destroys the foundation of societal structure and the larger religious ideal of a harmonious and moralistic community, through removing the mutual consideration members of society must have for each other for its basic function.

* * *

learnt the hard way -- from experience
May '08

home is where...

2008-06-10T05:33:00.007Z

how soft,
the distant memory
once more rises,
of a time and place between heaven and earth
robed in dancing shadows and light,

so perfect like
a dream it was, I forgot

was it ever real?
did we ever go?

there are times when I no longer know

O world, turn back again then cease
hold still for me those moments,
in which my heart was whole

as all that remains now to say they were
is their empty place

and the fall of my tears.

* * *

missing ziarah
10/06/08.

the Dawn of a new Era

2008-04-05T15:13:00.000Z

... otherwise known as, the message of the Prophet (saw) to Visionaries & Great Men.

Your children are not your children.
They are the sons and daughters of Life's longing for itself.
They come through you but not from you,
And though they are with you yet they belong not to you.

You may give them your love but not your thoughts,
For they have their own thoughts.
You may house their bodies but not their souls,
For their souls dwell in the house of tomorrow,
which you cannot visit, not even in your dreams.
You may strive to be like them,
but seek not to make them like you.
For life goes not backward nor tarries with yesterday...

Kahlil Gibran

In history we have occasionally seen times of great conflict, which have borne revolutions that have shaped the face of the world to come; according to the will of men who desire, and act upon that. Generations give their lives and blood fighting to establish an ideal, and succeed at long last - if not for themselves, for their children to see. This new generation -- born into the dream of the last but without any of the pain or struggle needed to appreciate it -- are often lost trying to fill the shoes of their parents, or rebelling against the confines of the order they find themselves in, through no choice of their own. This is the situation in modern Iran, in the wake of the Islamic Revolution.

Perhaps a revolution is needed in every generation; the men of each new time striving to establish their own identity, building upon the dreams of their fathers in a direction suited to their own time, setting their own eyes on a goal then struggling to earn their own victory -- & through this, value its worth.

Those who would establish a good & great nation, after the decline of that of the past, are shown the path to tread by the visionary of visionaries & world-changers before them -- the Last Prophet (saw). They must walk in his footsteps in a way more closely than others. He walked out the path they too must take, to build their own promised land, now the glory of the past has faded, crumbled and begun to decay.

How to be the change you wish to see in the world, and through it inspire that change -- define yourself through:

FAITH -- solid, unshakable; gaze firmly fixed on the goal, every second passed with a view to reaching it

LOVE & GENTLENESS -- make this the hallmark of your character, it will be the key to unlocking hearts

NOBILITY -- truth, honesty, good -- reflect the best in humanity towards all in humanity

PERSEVERANCE -- upon these 3, hold firm patience in the long pursuit of the goal, show love & kindness to those who harm you, behave nobly even with those who cheat and betray.

If you can do this -- unfailingly be what you hope to see in others, gentle in approach, unmoving in ideals --

you could awaken minds & hearts, which upon the same love will converge
and build, from trickle to tidal wave, to shape the face of the world.

* * *

31/3/08
with thanks

It has been...

2008-04-03T22:51:00.004Z

... an age since I last opened those doors, out onto the pinching cold icy-clear night. Too long since I breathed in once more & forced the blurred distance into focus... I see no one else around, but know there must be others and we are all under the same, blue sky... into the chill, I call

Is anybody out there?

please, make yourself known!

the Heart of the Quran

2008-03-19T23:07:00.007Z

What is the heart of the Quran, the core sentiment, the spirit from which all else flows?

The chapter Ya Seen is called the heart of the Quran.
The heart of Ya Seen can be summed up in 4 of its words.

يَا حَسْرَةً عَلَى الْعِبَادِ

"Ah! Alas for (My) Servants!"

Ya Seen, 36:30

* * *

The story of Ya Seen starts by the Wise Quran, His reassuring and loving words to His Messenger, and the promise of guidance for the whole of creation.

"Ya Sin.
By the Qur'an, full of Wisdom,-
Thou art indeed one of the apostles,
On a Straight Way.
It is a Revelation sent down by (Him), the Exalted in Might, Most Merciful."

36:1-5

His guidance, given out of love and mercy, to be a warning for a people whose fathers were not guided and remained blindly unaware; part of His perpetual grace & mercy to us, never giving up on ever-rejecting, ignorant and arrogant man.

The narrative continues, He sends prophets, good men & warners to mankind, who are arrogantly rejected & killed. The story reflects the entire history of the world, which is coloured through His efforts for our benefit, and our stubborn rejection of them.

and yet, instead of giving up on us, He feels sorrow for us. He laments our states. He loves us still!

Instead of the deserved curse, He says

"Ah! Alas for (My) Servants!"

This is the heart of the Quran,

and its sentiment.

* * *

To follow, He pleads with us through His signs to look at perished nations, to observe & reflect upon the majesty of nature, asking us to do good, warning us of the inevitable punishment - retribution for our bad deeds, telling us not to worship satan -- all this, before finally reminding us gently, softly, this admonition is all for our sakes. He is free from all need, having all power with just a word, "Be".

.فَسُبْحَانَ الَّذِي بِيَدِهِ مَلَكُوتُ كُلِّ شَيْءٍ وَإِلَيْهِ تُرْجَعُونَ

Glory to Him, He holds all & to Him we return.

* * *

17 Feb '08

Ridah

2008-03-18T18:49:00.007Z

There was a new camera I really wanted... a DSLR, one of the more expensive ones. I don't want many things, but this was one of the few I really did. For years I had been toying with the idea of buying one, repeatedly getting close enough to have got my credit card out, then pulling back at the last minute. I could find the money if needed alhamdulillah, but I could never justify the cost... even with discount packages I was looking at the best part of a grand, and no matter how many plans I might make to generate income from it, I could never shake the feeling that it was an extravagance. It would be the most money I had ever spent, aside from on travel - almost twice the cost of my first car (a banger, but it got me from A to B for over a year).

I knew spending so much was way outside my comfort zone but still, I really, really wanted it. Probably more than I'd wanted any material thing before.

A few weeks ago I decided to stop messing about and just buy the camera. I had just wanted it for so long, and knew I would get some beautiful shots even if I did nothing with them. Up to this point I had been using my cameraphone, not even a decent digital camera. I started reading reviews online for the latest models, bought "What Digital Camera" magazine and started shopping around for the best deals. I also asked a friend and fellow photography enthusiast for advice, oj - who had been encouraging me to buy a proper camera for a very long time. I found the site I was going to order from, got my credit card ready and took a deep breath.

I don't know why, but just then it crossed my mind to take an istikhara. I take them often, particularly to reassure me (against my impetuous nature) that I am not doing something stupid - something which would displease Allah. I left the computer on at the checkout page, and performed the istekhara. The result was,

"And if you turn away from them to seek mercy from your Lord, which you hope for, speak to them a gentle word."

-- Al Isra', 17:28

As soon as I read the first few words, I started to smile. I had a suspicion this meant not buying the camera could amount to pursuit of the pleasure and mercy of Allah; and if so I knew what my choice would have to be... but it wasn't immediately clear if that was the case. I knew I would do what I had to if I had to, but I can't deny the reluctance to give up something I loved which I felt when I first read the reply; I wanted to make absolutely sure I understood the kheira first.

I prayed again, saying how much I wanted it, but also that I would resolve to give it up if I was certain of the meaning. I opened the Quran again hoping I'd been mistaken and got another verse, one which I was confused by and couldn't understand the relevance of. I had a strong feeling with the first verse that I had been given my answer, so tried to find it again to re-read it in context in the hope that I would understand it better. I found the passage again easily and read the verse again, then the few before it.

"Your Lord knows best what is in your minds; if you are good, then He is surely Forgiving to those who turn (to Him) frequently. And give to the near of kin his due and (to) the needy and the wayfarer, and do not squander wastefully. Surely the squanderers are the fellows of the Shaitans and the Shaitan is ever ungrateful to his Lord...

-- Al Isra' 17:25-7

And there was my answer, in full. I'd wanted to know if buying the camera was the best course of action to take, and had pushed for a specific answer in the past, above and beyond confirmations of its permissibility. This was it, I had to swallow the little selfish "me" inside which wanted the camera so badly and pull my heart off what I had set it upon, unless I wanted to choose the pursuit of these fleeting worldly pleasures over the one thing I had always said mattered most to me. The matter was settled. I comforted myself with the thought that I could get a nice compact digital camera instead.

I smiled once more as I read the original verse again.

And if you turn away from them to seek mercy from your Lord, which you hope for, speak to them a gentle word."

My final thoughts were about the words, "speak to them a gentle word". At first I couldn't see their relevance but now I realised the advice I was being given, as my thoughts faded to leave the only thing about my decision which now worried me:

oj was gonna kill me.

I'm sorry man, I hope you understand.

* * *

5th March '08

"Those who know me, know me

2008-03-06T21:51:00.013Z

and those of you who don't know me, then I will tell you who I am ..."

There you have it. The best introduction in all recorded history. If all the literary geniuses in the world were to converge upon writing a single opening sentence for a character, their combined efforts over decades could not surpass this one - more perfect still, these words were first delivered in spontaneous speech.

These have to be some of the most powerful opening lines ever uttered. Immediately they command the situation, silencing the audience and preparing in them an air of attention and awe towards the speaker. So rarely have so few words been expertly combined as these, to convey such impact and influence upon the audience.

Tomes upon tomes can be written about the excellence of this line.

Now picture these words coming from a young man; shackled around the neck, wrists and hands; bleeding, scratched, cut, his torn clothes and body covered in dust and weathered through weeks and weeks of hard travel in the unforgiving desert heat; exhausted through physical weakness and the weight of his emotional ordeal, etched in the tear-tracks through the dirt on his face. Behind him stand a small party of shackled women and children, in much the same pitiable state; not a one without the veil torn from her head, the clothes torn from her back; cowering from the gazes of their captors and spectators who have come to make sport of their sorrow. Before them on spears are paraded the heads of their beloved brothers, fathers, friends and even children, all of whom had been mercilessly slain.

Picture these words as they were delivered... to be the only shield to protect the oppressed captives from their captors and tormentors. Picture the anticipation and hope against hope amongst the small, weary band, knowing the weight of these words carried not only their own fate, but the fate of the entire future of Islam.

These words were delivered to so-called muslims:
the aggressors, the captors

from the captured -- the son of Hussein (as),
grandson of Lady Zahra and Imam Ali (as),
great-grandson of their very own Prophet (saw).

Ali ibn al Hussein (as) made his stand.

And by Allah, he let them know who he was.

"... I am the son of Mecca and Mina. I am the son of Zamzam and Safa. I am the son of he who gave Zakat to the poor. I am the son of the best of those who have ever put on Ihram and performed ceremonies of Hajj. I am the son of he who was taken on the night journey from house of Allah to the Mosque of Aqsa and then to Miraj. I am the son of he who was taken around by Gibrael to the Lote-tree of the boundary (Sidratul Muntaha).

"I am the son of Muhammad Mustafa (S.A.WW). I am the son of Ali Al-Murtaza who fought the polytheists in the battle till they submitted to Islam and fought in the presence of the Prophet until his sword was broken and to whom Zulfikar was given. I am the son of he who had the honour to migrate twice in Islam. I am the son of Fatima the best women of the world..."

* * *

Mar '08
with thanks

The role of the state in internet censorship

2008-03-05T13:54:00.014Z

Some of you may have noticed a link on the left hand side of this place to my Flickr account. Yesterday as I was idly browsing I came across the photostream of someone living in Iran - and in it, this photo. And he wasn't the only one complaining, I found more images along the same lines from other members. Although I was vaguely aware that Iran filtered websites, I was surprised -- but then I remembered the trouble a friend of mine in Iran recently had, again with access to the relatively harmless* and rather fun Flickr, and randomly, Statcounter.

The Problem

I sympathise with their frustration. At my place of work internet access is filtered -- and it is not only pointless but completely hampers any legitimate use of the net. Search engines are practically useless because many of the results are blocked, research and literature searches are nearly impossible (medical papers will contain reference to certain parts of anatomy which the filters seem to think makes them pornographic), and stupidly enough a heck of a lot of inappropriate (in terms of work) sites like YouTube and MSN seem to get past the filters.

I'm not saying the reasons for filtering websites at work are not valid; after all nobody thinks its acceptable to spend the whole day at work on forums or shopping online -- but you need to give people their freedom too. Who cares if someone checks their email or reads the paper online in their lunch hour? Or if they need to find out the cost of sending a parcel right before they head for the Post Office on their way home? Apparently, my employer does. Even though the activity is innocent, costs them nothing and is completely within allocated breaks, they insist that it shouldn't be allowed. Its just this narrow-minded and overbearing attitude that breeds dissent. All in all, the shortcomings of the filtering process and policy has stirred up a lot of ill-feeling towards the IT department & higher management.

And this is just filtering at work. I would not be impressed at all (to say the least!) if I had to face the same thing at home.

On the Other Hand...

The issue as I see it is that Iran is an Islamic country with rules and social etiquettes largely defined by this identity. And lord knows, a heck of a lot of the stuff on the internet is not Islam-friendly. I can't count the number of times I have done an innocent Google search and come across a wildly inappropriate and completely irrelevant site within the results -- once I searched for an old DOS game by typing "Daggerfall" (the title), and nearly fell off my chair when half way down the screen there was a link to what seemed like a pornographic site, possibly involving paedophilia (this is based on the description, I didn't click the link!). Adding the word "download" to practically any search seems to give similar results -- even with safe search on. The image search suffers from similar drawbacks, I've been traumatised too many times through inappropriate freak-show type images popping up on my screen even though I try to take measures to avoid them. One of my friends father was surfing some university site which had been hacked, and got redirected to some porno site where 100 revolting pop-ups filled his screen, much to his horror. Most of us users of the net in the "free world" have had some kind of experience like this.

After all, the owners of such sites want to increase their traffic and so will tag their sites with hundreds and hundreds of words which may not be relevant at all: but will improve their chances of popping up on a search. This tagging, sadly, also has the potential to confuse filters. Amongst the other crud of the Internet we haven't yet covered chatrooms, which are known to be a hangout for paedophiles to try and lure children into meeting them offline: the British Home Office has recently launched a campaign to address the dangers of this. Couple this with the viruses, malicious emails, piracy and groups which promote illegal and deviant behaviour, and there you have it: one hell of an argument to filter the net -- to make it safe to use for people of all ages including children, and nice normal people who don't want to be bombarded by viruses, adverts and porn; and who don't want to give potential serial killers, rapists, paedophiles and other criminals the chance to learn, encourage each other or convene. It is a fact that the internet has become a recruiting ground for many of these criminal groups.

Many people in the UK and US, amongst them my relatives who have pre-teen children, have invested in some form of personal internet filtering software such as CyberPatrol, and blocked pretty much everything except a few children's sites they know and trust. Speaking from personal experience for the reasons outlined previously, there is no way I would let a young child in my care access the internet in its entirety. Children are impressionable and known for their curiosity; exposure to the worst the internet has to offer may develop illicit interests in them will likely have a serious adverse effect on the social, religious and personal development of the child. In terms of society at large, the net - like television and computer games - can desensitise people towards certain behaviour. Films and video games are age-rated to give some level of protection to vulnerable and impressionable individuals, but of course the internet has no parallel in this. A call for freedom is one thing, but I don't think the majority would argue this means giving everybody full access to everything.

The role of the State

As an intelligent adult, there is no doubt a part of me that would resent censorship by the state: particularly given that I don't agree with a lot of what my country of residence does. But there is another side of me which does want some limits, some form of curbing of the descent of the internet into a fetid swamp of crime, malicious activity and smut (article: the internet will become unusable by 2008). And if you ask me if I would rather raise children in the UK or in Iran, my answer will be Iran about a thousand times over - Flickr or no Flickr.

So what should the role of the state be? Should we expect full access of the internet wherever we are and leave filtering as a responsibility of the individual, even though the effects of this freedom with irresponsible individuals may increase the dangers in our society? Should we expect the state to filter some content to protect the casual surfer, and if so, how -- the issue is that filtering mechanisms are far from perfect and will undoubtedly block some legitimate sites while allowing inappropriate ones anyway - but is this inconvenience better than the alternative? Should we have progressive filtering, where individuals can petition to open access to certain sites which may have been filtered incorrectly (as at my place of work, although there is a very inconvenient delay of days to weeks before the site becomes unblocked). Or should we just ban the internet altogether? (Just kidding!)

The question is not an easy one to answer, but one which needs to be addressed. There must be some middle ground whereby us moralistic Flickr users can have our cake, and eat it too.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/salehoffline/41107653/

* * *

* Flickr is fine as long as you don't actively look for bad photos.
Mar '08

The crux of my experience:: the way to progress

2008-03-04T15:52:00.003Z

Throughout my few years so far in religion, this effort represents the sum total of my observations and realisations in relation to spiritual progression.

* * *

Spiritual development has often been likened to physical development. If one wishes to become stronger, fitter and more able they must undertake a routine amount of exercise. The truth of this statement is comprehensive, I have come to realise following many episodes of trial and error.

Points to notice:

A good exercise routine comprises of small, basic exercises which are repeated daily, once every few days or weekly at the least. The body will not show any benefit from infrequent or irregular exercise even if it is a large or difficult activity. Athletes do not run marathons once a month and do nothing in between – they train daily.

The body gets fatigued after a period of continuous exercise, and further exercise after this point does more harm than good. The effect of this is cumulative – such that for the first day one may cope but after a week of the same activities fatigue may have set in, and injuries compounded. Once fatigued the body will require a rest period in order to recover, and may take long to return to its previous state without any long-term benefit to the strenuous activity undertaken. Athletes do not run marathons daily, they perform tasks which are completed in a shorter time, are less strenuous, and leave them feeling exerted but not pushed to their limits.

Athletes do not train on injuries, they train around them. They allow time for the particular injury to heal before they force exertion which could further damage them. They train not when they are fatigued and close to their limits, but when they are comfortable, fit and in the right frame of mind and body to take benefit from their workout.

Given this advice (that you should not train to the maximum of your capabilities lest you become fatigued and require a long recovery, and that instead you should train when comfortable, capable and happy), you should not think this exempts you from any effort except the bare minimum obligatory. If you are physically fit and there is no negative consequence that may arise from the training, you should make yourself perform your daily programme. Athletes do not just forget training when they can’t be bothered – they train their base desires to submit to their will to succeed – you MUST make a daily effort if you want to progress at all. Athletes make themselves train but monitor themselves throughout, and stop when injury becomes likely to happen.

(3 & 4 form two ends of a continuum which man is constantly moving within. We need to watch ourselves closely throughout our lives for signs that we are nearing either of these two extremes – and take corrective action when we approach them.)

The exercises performed routinely should encompass small exertions to strengthen the various parts in which you would like to improve. Athletes choose their training routine with an eye to the muscles they would like to strengthen – the ones which they will need in order to strive towards their goal. We should choose the prayers, supplications and other religious activities we perform according to the aspects of our spirit we would like to work on.

Athletes assess their weaknesses and work on them the most. They choose their training routines to iron out the flaws in their delivery, concentrating on their weak points until they are as good as everything else.

Athletes structure their day around their long-term goal. They organise a strict timetable which incorporates times for them to perform all necessary activities such as eating, sleeping, time with friends and family; and makes best use of their day to maximise the effectiveness of their training. They eat, sleep and socialise around their exercise, which is the focus of their day. They eat that which will enable them to train better and grow stronger. They sleep when it is best for their training, and for as long as it takes to replenish but not longer. They do not waste time. This explains how work, socialising, eating and sleeping can become worship, if completed only to the extent required within life, and when it is best for training: the entire day is spent either training or preparing the circumstances needed to train.

Being only human, there are times when we may give in to our desires and stop training, or eat that entire chocolate fudge cake. After this we feel very guilty, and often become demoralised and stop training altogether. This hampers our overall progress even further – momentary lapses are unavoidable but not very damaging as long as one perseveres after them and keeps the efforts up. Athletes try to avoid things that will negatively affect their training, but if they do happen to fall into one they do not give up afterwards, they keep training and make up for the fall.

Don’t look at the worlds strongest man when you fist start training, and get discouraged thinking you will never become as good as him. Take small steps, set yourself small intermediate goals, assess yourself according to those and your own progress ONLY. Every journey of 1000 miles starts with a single step.

keep going forward even with a limping leg – Imam Khomeini

things from the book, “Smart Girls Do Dumbells”:

- don’t feel guilty for skipping a day, keep on the day after
- something is better than nothing: even if it wasn’t what you had planned in its entirety – do whatever you can and don’t feel bad
- monitor your abilities well: document your start level thoroughly then compare your new results after 2 weeks, 4 weeks, 6 weeks etc. Any changes you notice will make you feel better and encourage you to work harder – keep thinking about the GOAL
- be patient with the programme: you won’t lose weight unless you exercise pretty much every day
- change the routine somewhat between days to avoid getting bored with the repetition – but keep efforts small and controlled
- power is nothing without control – do exercises RIGHT 5 times instead of WRONG 100 times, if you want to benefit

* * *

Jan/Feb '08

"و لكن لا يوم مثل يومك ... يا ابا عبد الله ..."

2008-02-28T10:23:00.010Z

40 days on

From the time of his birth or before
they knew his final fate
& carried its immense burden in their breasts
each time they saw him smile
or stumble on toddler's unsteady feet and begin to cry

How their hearts must have ached
at the pressure of this crushing, silent weight
overshadowing each sunny day as he was raised
knowing, each time they ran to protect him
they could not protect him at the hardest time to come

"My dear one", they must have said
"You have a status with Allah you will not attain
except through martyrdom"
& steeled & groomed him as best they could,
then one by one left their baby, & with him their hearts

They watched history unfold on burning sands, with baited breath
in floods of tears & heavy grief, but immense, immense pride
as he fulfilled his destiny, alone
& returned softly to their welcoming arms,
to take his promised place.

* * *

* * *

the Arba'een
Feb '08

"There is nothing more certain than...

2008-02-25T23:56:00.004Z

... Death."

~~ Rest in peace, sister Aaliyah.

* * *

footprint //duas
Feb '08

Demons

2008-02-16T11:08:00.006Z

to start the journey I must pull away from all which pulls me back... back into myself, retreating to the safe comfort where the scratches can't hurt. To run away I must pull free of the tangle of chains, which has only bound me because I let it. It is time to own and overpower it, instead of it owning me.

the sweet silent words still ring in my ear...

* * *

Again when the tide is at its lowest & the night moonless, pitch black, the mercies of Allah find me, through His rope extending from the heavens.

* * *

" They said: Are you indeed Yusuf?

He said: I am Yusuf
and this is my brother;
Allah has indeed been gracious to us..."

Holy Quran, 12:90

Yusuf, who had no less than half of all existing beauty.

Beauty has many forms: immediately the many petals of the story begin to unfold.

He had beauty of character; in his life he had been subjected to a great deal of suffering, pain & hardship at the hands of his family - the ones who were supposed to protect, shelter & support him - who instead inflicted the worst blows and betrayal; and yet he grew not bitter & resentful of them.
He had been left destitute, & his trust in Allah was a beauty.
His loyalty, obedience and gratitude to the Aziz was a beauty; his chastity and abstinence in the face of great temptation was a beauty.
His courage and patience in prison was a beauty, his piety in preferring a jail cell to the temptation of sin was beauty.
His humility was a beauty,
his justice and equity in meting out the grain was beauty,
his wisdom & good counsel for the king was beauty --

-- all types of beauty of spirit and form were manifested in him,
and for his efforts in that, Allah arranged his affair.

The beauty of Yusuf (as) culminates in this verse -- his reunion with his brothers, & the highest flower of perfection of his divine beauty --

his forgiveness of them, for all they had done.

Nabi Yusuf (as) was unlike many prophets in his situation - but is much more like us all through it - and so is a guiding beacon & radiant example of the way we should try to live our lives.

The verse closes with his longed-for happy ending, & the words --

"...surely he who guards (against evil) and is patient (is rewarded)
for surely Allah does not waste the reward of those who do good."

* * *
.
.

overcome
your
demons::

Forgive.

.
.

the problem with my perception

2007-12-11T20:44:00.000Z

For the longest time, I had considered reality to be grounded in the sense-perceived, material universe; and what is beyond that to be some deeper reality, albeit closer to truth.

The problem I had with that was in finding the motivation to pull away from what was still a reality, to move to the next.

What is actually the case, is this base state grounded in sensory perception of the material

is not reality.

it is not real. it is illusory, fleeting, wildly inaccurate or at best incomplete.

The journey is actually from the state of delusion, to the only thing that is real.

who in their right mind would be happy within a permanent dream state, no matter how good?

you should remember the illusion, when faced with the pull.

self-deception
is never welcome
with one who seeks Truth

By staring at the red light, becoming engrossed in its colour and form you lose sight of what it signifies - the impending danger, which should occupy your attention instead.

The danger is what is real - the red light, neither here nor there.

* * *

with thanks to
Light Within Me

beginnings:: muddled

2007-12-10T23:42:00.000Z

what is this life
that i cling to
what meaning does it have,
comfortable as it is?

when all is said and done, what will remain
of this pulling, warm, oblivious stupour...
drunk on life, foggy-headed
I fight within myself

alice calls desperately "wake up!"
against the sweet soothing lul
torn between the choices, my weak resolve scatters
lost, muddled, I sit,
not knowing down from up.

* * *

FAITH

2007-12-08T22:50:00.001Z

what is the purpose of faith
faith is just to believe
in what is there
what is there irrespective of belief

faith is to know
what reality is
but what would you do with that knowledge?

to learn for its own sake splutters and stalls
in the face of drawn-out journeying
it is not motivation enough

so
what is motivation
what is the reason
to improve & learn?

the world is reasonless
except for
the all-penetrating, endless
breath of the divine which holds it
and gives it shape

if you search
it should only be
for this breath

if you search
it will only be
for your own sake

what is around you?

better understand it to know
what it is worth pursuing
knowledge of.

He
loves

YOU

How to Strengthen your Iman

2007-11-04T20:51:00.002Z

Ayatullah Ja'far Subhani, Imam of the Friday Prayers at the Sayeda Masuma haram in Qum, was asked how young people in the west might go about increasing their iman.

His answer was simple. He told us:

There are three things you should do.
Pray at the very first time of the prescribed time for prayers

Read at least a quarter of a Juz' of Quran every day

Carry a notepad with you wherever you go, and record your bad deeds throughout the day. At the end of the day review what you have written, and ask forgiveness for the sins you have committed.

* * *

The Start of Faith: Establishing your beliefs beyond any doubt
The way to progress
Seeking knowledge of God, above and beyond any other form of knowledge

* * *

Nahjul Balaghah sermon 1: what is it to Deny God Attributes?
To Deny Him Attributes II
To Deny Him Attributes III

* * *

Ideas from the book "Man & Destiny":: Virtual
Virtual II
Virtual III
Virtual IV

* * *

Qum, Iran
August 2006