I remember asking myself this question as I prepared for Hajj. Unlike most trips I had taken in my life, the goal of this trip was not to attain some worldly gain or pleasure. I was going to give of my time and my energy, and to exert myself for the pleasure of Allah.
My own mentor throughout the years has been my first major Islamic studies teacher from Cairo. No matter where I am in the world, I always find the time to speak with him and learn more from his years of experience and guiding wisdom...
When I reflect upon the first half of my life, as a Christian, a mix of feelings rises up in my chest ranging from confusion to frustration. I never felt peace prior to becoming a Muslim. I always had questions to ask, but could never find anyone who could...
Our first taste of the Pilgrimage had been at the very end of September 1948, when we saw the Kiswah, the brocaded black hangings of the Kaaba, being carried in a festive procession through the streets of Cairo. Ever since the Middle Ages, this rich silk and cotton cloth has been specially woven in Egypt.
Learning to read Quran is only the first step. Many more steps will follow it. That includes learning the meaning of Quran. Learning the feelings of Quran. We should aim and try to integrate more and more of the Quran in our daily lives.
Walking through Madinah is in a way a visit to the history of Islam. We went to the hill where the battle of Uhud was fought, standing on the rocks where the archers stood who minutes later changed the outcome of that struggle. We prayed...
Those whom when they have a temper, they’re very upset, they’re becoming very angry… they swallow and extinguish that temper, they literally drink it down and they make sure that they have not vented it. Allah says they are very good people. He loves them.
I discussed this recently with a local sister, Cath, as we have both been on pilgrimage to Makkah. She went there for Hajj with her husband two-and-a-half years after saying her Shahadah and I was able to go to perform Umrah with a group of sisters two years after mine.
Don’t let others make you feel “less Muslim” because you are still learning how to read Arabic. On the flip side, don’t let others make you feel “too Muslim” because you wear hijab. Find moderation in all you do, and strive to be the best person you can be...
As an American, as I came to know more about Islam my faith began to clash with my own spirit of independence. We Americans enjoy our freedoms and independence and are not interested in paying heed to others who might know better.
When seeking knowledge, converts must strike a balance that helps to maintain the various aspects of their lives while learning at the same time. Careful scheduling and time management skills are keys for success. They ensure that your quest for knowledge...
The burkini truly is liberating for me as a Muslim woman, it allows me to socialize more in different settings, it allows me to enjoy leisure activities and time with my children.
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