Health Benefits of Saying 'Alhamdulillah'

There are many examples in the Qur'an and Hadith of the virtues of a positive mental attitude, perseverance and optimism in the face of adversity. However, did you know that patience and a positive outlook on life are two of the greatest healing tools that you can use?

The Qur'an (2:155) says, "Give glad tidings to those who exercise patience when struck with adversity and say, 'Indeed, we belong to God and to Him is our return.' Such ones receive [the] blessings and mercy of their Lord, and such are the guided ones." According to the findings of modern science, it appears that this mercy may often come in the form of improved health.

Bernard Jensen says, in his book The Science and Practice of Iridology, "The doctor of the new day will recognize that a man's most important workshop is not the physical body, but the mind that controls it." Dr. Ted M. Morter confirms this in his book, Your Health... Your Choice, when he says that "negative thoughts are the number one acid producer in the body (and high body acidity levels are a major cause of disease) because your body reacts to negative mental and emotional stress brought about by thought the same way it reacts to 'real' threats of physical harm."

In fact, hospital studies show that, of all the patients who consult outpatient clinical facilities in the United States, an astounding seventy percent are found to have no organic basis for their complaint. That figure is amazingly high. However, although medically these patients are not found to have an obvious organic source for their complaints, there actually is a physical basis for this phenomenon. Since Freud popularized the idea of psychoanalysis, people have often focused exclusively on the mental realm to solve certain problems, forgetting that we cannot separate the physical and mental realms. The mind is in the brain, and the brain is an organ. Like all other organs, it feeds from the same pool of nutrients that other body organs feed from and is susceptible to all of the same problems. Ultimately, the brain is just a part of our body like all of the other parts and is completely dependent on the body. It requires sugar to develop energy unlike other tissues that can develop it from potassium and fats. Consequently, it is the first organ to suffer from low blood sugar and it reacts most severely. Freud himself said that psychoanalysis was not suitable for treating diseases such as schizophrenia, and he postulated that their causes eventually would be found to be biochemical.

If we keep in mind that the brain is an organ and that it works in harmony with the other organs and feeds from the same bloodstream, we can understand how various mental events can affect us physically. For example, simply using our brains to think and study burns up nutrients in our system, particularly phosphorus. Heavily exercising the brain can cause us to suffer from a phosphorus deficiency. And we find that the reverse is also true in this relationship. People who have high intellectual capacity usually have high levels of phosphorus in their system.

There is much wisdom in the Prophet's (SAW) statement (narrated by Abu Huraira), "The strong [person] is not the one who overcomes the people by his strength, but the strong [person] is the one who controls himself while in anger." In fact, staying patient and calm is key to physical strength.

Phosphorus is not the only nutrient that can be depleted by mental stress and a lack of spiritual calm. If the thyroid gland, the primary organ to handle our emotions, works overtime, we can suffer from a deficiency in iodine. Stress from a demanding job, a divorce or relocating can cause a loss of potassium and sodium in the body because it effects the adrenal glands creating more of a need for these minerals.

Even hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) can be caused by excitement. The prophet (SAW) recommended our taking the more moderate path in life; however, we often engage in or expose ourselves to intense excitement by yelling, excessively watching television, and going to the mall, movies, parties, amusement parks, etc. When we see something exciting, our adrenal cortex is stimulated and there is an increase in our blood sugar. This, in turn, stimulates the pancreas to secrete insulin into the blood to lower the sugar level, causing us to then feel tired or weak.

It produces calm and health to practice saying, "Alhamdulillah" for what we have and for what we are faced with. We should try to keep our home and work environments peaceful and as free from stress as possible. One way we can counteract the effects of stress are to simply be aware of the stress we are encountering, and to consume sufficient nutrients and supplements such as herbs.

For instance, if a person is up late praying or reading Qur'an during Ramadan, they can eat phosphorus rich foods and those that will help them maintain their phosphorus intake. If a person is moving, traveling or making Hajj or Umra, they may want to increase their intake of foods high in potassium and sodium as well as vitamin B complex.

If we completely ignore the relationship between mental and physical health, we are missing an important detail in the picture of personal health. And, as in most health problems, practicing prevention is superior to finding a cure. Therefore, the best manner to avoid having negative attitudes and emotions control our bodies is simply to practice the wisdoms that we have been given throughout the Qur'an and Hadith.

We should say, "Alhamdullilah" for what we have; "Insha'Allah" for what we intend; and, "Subhana' Allah" when we see something exciting or amazing. We should remember to say, Astaghfir'Allah" when we lose our tempers or become weak, and most importantly, "Allahu Akbar" when we are faced with the challenges of life.

These five phrases, said regularly, are like taking a multi-vitamin for holistic health.

[By Karima Burns. "Health Benefits of Saying 'Alhamdulillah'". The Modern Religion.]

Ten Qualities of the Youth Da'ee

We all want to live our best life. For many of us, our best life means doing everything we can to make the world a better place. Everyone agrees that the youth are the future. In FAYM, the young people are our focus. However, anyone who has interacted with adolescents, tweens, teens, and young adults has realized it is a daunting task. But what if the problem isn’t with them, but with us? Have we prepared ourselves to be the best da’ee (spreader of peace and inviter to a life of faith) we possibly can be? I have compiled a ten point checklist to highlight some key qualities every youth da’ee should aim to possess (not in any particular order).

Disclaimer- These points are a basic compilation from my own personal experience as an educator, youth coordinator, and being a youth in America. They are not meant to cover every aspect of the work but rather bring light to some key areas. It serves as a way to measure our commitment and effectiveness. Also, please note these points are assuming that you have already attached yourself to a group or jama’ah (if you have NOT what are you waiting for????).

(In a powerful wrestling match announcer voice) – “Introducing TEN QUALITIES OF A YOUTH DA’EE”

A GOOD YOUTH DA’EE :

1. KNOWS TO USE TECHNOLOGY WELL

The days of antennas and cassette tapes are slowly fading into a museum showcase of the past. If you have not yet embraced the world of technological growth and think you will be effective without it – you need to wake up. A youth da’ee is well versed in cell phones, video game systems, movie players, the internet, and basic office applications. I’m not saying you must transform into a technology nut. However, if you are unfamiliar with the basic ins and outs of equipment, you will find it hard to cope. This also includes social networking such facebook, twitter, blogs, youtube, and the many ever expanding arsenals of tools. The reality is that technology works. So learn to master it. Always ask yourself how can I use this technology to accomplish the goals of our group?

2. HAS RELIABLE TRANSPORTATION

An entire point dedicated to transportation? Yes, it is THAT important. Independence and movement are critical for a da’ee. You can be prepared in every way, but if you are not present you are not productive. So learn how to drive well and navigate directions and maps. Invest in a GPS, budget for gas, make your car comfortable with prayer mats, snacks, and lecture series, and embrace the road. If you are in an urban area, this may mean learning the train system or bus schedule. Regardless, be safe, say your dua, travel in groups whenever possible, but don’t miss any endeavor because of transportation. The work needs you too much.

3. IS UPDATED ON POP CULTURE & CURRENT EVENTS

Now it is not expected for you to know all the birthdays of Brad and Angelina’s children and every title of the tracks on the newest Mariah Carey album (in fact I’d be concerned if you do) BUT you should not be living in a cave either. Educate yourself on popular figures and popular trends –especially if you are expecting to relate to young people. Yes, that means you may need to look up who is Lady Gaga and figure out what is “Dancing with the Stars” or what is Call of Duty Modern Warfare II. Entertainment and celebrities are a huge part of American culture and the youth are surrounded by this all the time. Also, be educated about current events so you can converse and share with others. Lastly, be aware of some of Islamic pop culture as well. I recommend if you are able, attend at least one convention a year to learn about what’s what on the Muslim scene (ISNA is one of the best for these purposes). Did you see the newest Kareem Salaama video (do you know who he is)? What are Baba Ali’s newest business ventures? Did you hear about the recent research study by Georgetown University on the 500 Most Influential Muslims in the World? An effective da’ee is aware about all these and more.

4. IS HEALTHY, FIT OR ATHLETIC

Simply put, you need to be strong. The Prophet (SA) said “A strong believer is better and closer to Allah than a weak believer.” It is part of the Sunnah and a characteristic of a Muslim. Also, sports are a huge deal in American society. An athletic da’ee (especially with boys) has a better chance of relating to a large amount of youth. Besides this, the Islamic work will take physical demands on your body and if you have a weak immune system and tire easily, it will catch up with you. Fitness and exercise is also a great stress reliever and developing a regular schedule will inevitably improve your capabilities and mental health, not to mention enriches your life.

5. KNOWS TO NAVIGATE THE MUSLIM COMMUNITY

The Muslim community is no lk in the park, in fact is more like a walk on the I-95 highway, blind-folded, walking on stilts. There are many different types of ideas, cultures, and beliefs people have about the way Islam should be practiced. An effective da’ee does not get lost in the confusion. Take time to learn about the various groups one will encounter and know where you or your group stands on certain practices (Yomul Nabi, Ashuraa, extremism, etc). By learning you will avoid many hassles and unnecessary drama and therefore move closer to reaching your goals. Know which Masajid are in the area and the type of leaders that run the community. This insight will come in handy more than you would believe.

6. HAS EXCELLENT MANNERS AND BEHAVIOR

If you want to win the heart of anyone you must have superb adab (manners and etiquette). This is the personality of an Islamic Worker. Learn how to give and return salaams with warmth. Be aware of other’s sensitivities and always be polite and kind. This will reflect your sincerity. It is also showing the youth an example they can emulate because when people know better, they do better. Imam Malik’s mom told him, “Learn from his (the shaykh’s) manners before you learn from his knowledge.” Always be respectful especially with the really young, really old, and the learned amongst us.

7. IS ORGANIZED

A da’ee understands the urgency of the work they must embark upon. Therefore, they take pains to keep good files, records, and systems for dealing with junk (junk emails, junk items, and junk people). Create effective spreadsheets and databases of your resources and personnel. Also, find what time management techniques work for you and implement them. I personally use the daily planer method. Invest into learning about new ways to manage time well such as using the GTD (Getting Things Done) System.

8. IS A POSITIVE AND MOTIVATIONAL PUBLIC SPEAKER

Giving speeches is one of the biggest fears people face but it still remains one of the most useful talents a leader can possess. If you plan to work with youth, it will require you to put yourself in vulnerable positions. This means speaking in public and conducting classes, etc. It is important to work on your social skills as this comes natural for some more than others. Remember, you are trying to persuade somebody that your way is better, so you must believe it! Learn techniques to motivate and inspire others. Remember, practice makes perfect!

9. PRAYS FAJR

Now you are probably wondering, why only Fajr? Shouldn’t we pray all our prayers? Yes, you should, and pray them well. But there is something symbolic and special about Fajr. What is it? This is because Fajr prayer teaches us discipline, time management and commitment. It does all that in five minutes a day. It also transforms your day and reminds you what you are fighting for. If you are having a hard time coping, work to improve your Fajr prayer.

10. IS CREATIVE!

We are dealing with people who converse with others across the world, transports messages with the tap of a finger, and has memorized hundreds of songs and lyrics. This is a generation where information is their language. They are intelligent, REALLY INTELLIGENT. Don’t mistake that for a moment. They are also suffering from the idea of entitlement. Everything is available to them, and quite often, with doing very little to deserve it. We need to understand our demographic and work hard to surpass their expectations. Anything ordinary can become extraordinary with a little effort and creativity. An effective youth da’ee always has something up their sleeve to grab attention and capture interest. Remember it is the details that tend to make the difference. Work hard to think outside the box and always ask yourself, how I can leave an imprint that will help them remember my message (Google “Made to Stick”).

Work hard and remember that nobody said it was going to be easy. This is our lifelong struggle and contribution. But the irony of it all is that once you’ve made the decision to really try, YOU WILL LOVE IT!

Young people are amazing creations and will fascinate you if given the attention and training. Don’t give up on them. One child changed represents an entire generation. Make your niyyah firm and let the deeds begin to pile on that scale, one day at a time.

[Lady Insight. "Ten Qualities of the Youth Da'ee".]

Volunteer with MAS: belong at the level to be part of change

Belong at the level to be part of change Volunteering with MAS National is a much more meaningful experience, taking you further out of your comfort zone and offering far greater rewards. It offers opportunities to be belong at the level where they can make the difference and bring the change.

MAS Members...Volunteer with MAS! Asslamu Alaikum dear brothers and sisters, We encourage you to volunteer with MAS National because it is a much more meaningful experience, taking you further out of your comfort zone and offering far greater rewards. It offers opportunities to be belong at the level where they can make the difference and bring the change. All of these volunteer positions can be filled by qualified and motivated MAS members. Please read the descriptions, and if you are ready to serve at the level where you can make the difference and bring the positive change Insha Allah, apply here. Wassalamu alaikum, MAS Administration department. What is MAS? The Muslim American Society (MAS) is a pioneering Islamic organization, an Islamic revival, and reform movement that uplift the individual, family, and society. MAS have more than 40 chapters across America. Our mission is "to move people to strive for God consciousness, liberty, and justice, and to convey Islam with utmost clarity." MAS is an Invigorating dynamic organization that is building an American society where Muslims are not only fully-participating citizens, but where Muslim Americans are the exemplary citizens who have elevated what is defined as American to newer heights of humanity, morality, spirituality, social justice and higher citizenry because they derive their values and beliefs not from the limits of the mere human thought, but rather from the limitlessness and vastness of the Divine, the Almighty. Why Do We Volunteer? MAS Members volunteer for a number of different reasons. Number one reason is they feel their duty and responsibility to gain the pleasure of Allah-swt by serving for a divine mission. Subsequently other reasons could be ranging from a desire to learn new skills, have fun or make a difference. Some are completely devoted to the cause, while others simply wish to do their bit where they can. In actual fact, volunteering with MAS National is a much more meaningful experience, taking you further out of your comfort zone and offering far greater rewards. It offers opportunities to be belong at the level where they can make the difference and bring the change. Some other reasons are: Give Something Back Unique Opportunities & Learn New Things View a Culture from the Inside Personal Growth A Sense of Accomplishment Recognition and Feedback Friendship and Belonging Skills and Experience To Have Fun Current Listings ADMINISTRATION: Assistant to the Executive Director Chapters Planning Specialist HR Specialist Database Specialist Lists Moderator SharePoint Specialist Google Apps Specialist Corporation Counselor FINANCIAL: Fundraising Administrator Fundraising Coordinator Finance/Accounting Professional GENERAL: Blogs coordinators Straight Path Campaign Volunteer Marketing Coordinator Conventions Coordinator Marriage Coordinators Nonprofit board members Project Managers Replication Engineers Grant Writer Marriage Coordinators Social Networking Specialist Girl Scouts Director ADMINISTRATION: Assistant to the Executive Director: Individual with Project management and administrative skills, available to assist executive director in executing and managing a number of tasks. Needs to be available at least 1 hour per day or more. Chapters Planning Specialist: The Chapters Planning Specialist will be assisting MAS chapters and regions with various areas of organizational growth, development and chapters planning. He or she should have knowledge and enthusiasm for the mission of MAS and offer new ideas and improvements to MAS chapters. Individuals with experience in strategic planning and facilitation. Min 10 hours per month commitment. HR Specialist: Individuals with experience in HR policies and procedures (preferably in nonprofit setting) that will work to evaluate and enhance MAS HR policies, handbooks, employment contracts, diversity polices, performance management etc. Will also assist in creating a positive volunteer experience for all volunteers in MAS. Min 4 hours per week commitment. Database Specialist: The Database Specialist will be given the responsibility of the management of MAS National data. Responsibilities may include: development of web-enabled database forms, synchronization of data from different sources and Email lists. The ideal applicant will have background in Excel and at least one database like Access. Lists Moderator: Lists Moderator will administer several email lists and Yahoo/Google groups. SharePoint Specialist: MAS National has selected SharePoint for its portal. SharePoint Specialist will bring product awareness and help the local chapters/team in the implementation of SharePoint at their team level, and help support SharePoint administrator in light administration and upgrades. Google Apps Specialist: Google Apps Specialist will assist the organization in the utilization of Google Apps products. Corporation Counselor: Individuals with experience incorporation process and paper work, who will advise local chapters on best practices. Min 8 hours per month commitment. FINANCIAL: Fundraising Administrator: The Fundraising Administrator will be responsible for assisting local chapters with fundraising logistics and managing database and schedule. Fundraising Coordinator: To assist society in planning and reserving fundraising opportunities from MAS chapters and other centers around the nation. Needs to be available min of 4 hours per week. Finance/Accounting Professionals: MAS National Finance Department is looking for Finance & Accounting professionals with background in developing policies & procedures, budgeting, forecasting, expertise in banking structure and financial reporting. GENERAL: Blogs Coordinators: Assist executive director in editing blog entries, and enhancing user experience on the blogs. Should have experience in blogs and social networking. Needs to be available at least 3 hours per week. Straight Path Campaign Volunteer: An active member of the local or national committee on combating extremism (currently called Straight Path). Will need individuals with different skills to participate in campaign. Marketing Coordinator: Individual with skills and talents to participate in a committee to design marketing material to communicate the message of MAS using different channels (brochures, internet, website, memorabilia, etc..) Conventions Coordinator: Individuals with experience in conference and event planning will create an infrastructure to serve and standardize and serve all MAS conferences across the nation. Min 20 hours per month commitment Nonprofit board members: Individuals with experience serving in nonprofit boards of major national organizations (preferably non Muslims) who will advise on nonprofit management best practices. Min 10 hours per month commitment. Project Managers: Individuals with PM experience who can become members of a number of national committees in order to focus the team and assist the department's director in managing several ongoing project. Min 4 hours per week commitment. Replication Engineers: Individuals with a love for "packaging" successful experiences, who will study a successful project or experience in an individual chapter, and "package" this experience for replication in other chapters. Individual will need to interview people, collect information, document the experience, and produce a package that can be utilized by interested chapters. For instance, packaging the "Green Team" initiative, or a successful "New Muslim Class" experience, or other single creative initiative introduced in a MAS chapter. Grant Writer: Individuals with good writing ability, and some experience in Grant writing, will be part of a team systematically searching for, and writing grants to different organizations. Min 4 hours per week. Marriage Coordinators: Individuals with experience and desire to assist MAS members find spouses. Will work in a committee to discreetly assist MAS members in their pursuit of finding spouses. Min 3 hours per week commitment. Social Networking Specialist: Individuals with talents and skills in social networking who will increase MAS utilization of social networking sites to communicate our message. Girl Scouts Director: Will provides, facilitate and coordinate training and support to Girl scouts coordinators, will implement the MSD Calendar of events, coordinate between coordinators and leaders for events, conduct a monthly round table teleconference with Coordinators, implement the MSD policies, vision, objectives and plans and convey concerns, suggestions and good ideas between units and MSD. MAS offers exciting possibilities and unique experiences. Specific positions may be partly suited to match your specific proficiencies and interests. Please use this form to apply. MAS is also Hiring! We have several open staff full time positions and many of them do not require relocation. We encourage MAS Members to apply. Click here for details. For any inquiries, please feel free to contact MAS Administration department at masadmin@masonline.org

Hijabi-Check

I would like to share this very beneficial article to serve as a reminder for myself first, before anyone else.
- Wafā'

Hijaab is not a piece of cloth on your head. Just because some of the sisters have their head covered, they think that the requirement of Hijaab is fulfilled. They don’t realize that wearing a Hijaab requires much more than just covering your head. Actually, if you think about it, Hijaab is the way you talk…the way you walk…the very way you carry yourself.

In fact, Hijaab is an attitude in itself. It’s a whole way of life. Allah says:

“And say to the believing women to lower their gazes, and to guard their private parts, and not to display their beauty (zeenah) except what is apparent of it, and to extend their head coverings (khimars) to cover their bosoms (jaybs), and not to display their beauty except to their husbands, or their fathers, or their husband’s fathers, or their sons, or their husband’s sons, or their brothers, or their brothers’ sons, or their sisters’ sons, or their womenfolk, or what their right hands rule (slaves), or the followers from the men who do not feel sexual desire, or the small children to whom the nakedness of women is not apparent, and not to strike their feet (on the ground) so as to make known what they hide of their adornments. And turn in repentance to Allah together, O you believers, in order that you are successful.” (Surat-un-Nur: 31).

Here are some of the more common issues in light of this verse about the Hijaab.

Well, my head is covered. What more do you want?

If you look carefully at the ayah, it clearly states that the head covers (khumur) should be drawn over the neck slits (juyoob). Khumur is the plural of the Arabic word “khimar” which means a head cover. Juyoob is the plural of the Arabic word “jaiyb,” which refers to the neck slit (of the dress).

Yet, some sisters just cover their head with something, and think they are fulfilling the rights of Hijaab, although part of their hair or body is showing, or their whole neck and chest area are exposed. Actually, that was the way of the women of Jahilliyah.

Al-Qurtubi said: “Women in those days used to cover their heads with the khimar, throwing its ends upon their backs. This left the neck and the upper part of the chest bare, along with the ears. Then Allah commanded them to cover those parts with the khimar.”

So secure the scarf well around your face, covering your neck/chest area, and keep those half sleeves and capri pants for your Mahrams.

Sorry.…tight jeans and short shirt just don’t cut it

You can’t wear tight jeans and a short shirt with a piece of cloth on your head and think this is Hijaab. Nor can you wear anything else that is tight, describing the shape of the body in any way, even if it is long.

The Prophet (Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam) said: “In later (generations) of my ummah there will be women who will be dressed but naked. On top of their heads (what looks) like camel humps. They will not enter into paradise or (even) get a smell of it.” (Muslim)

If it is see-through, its NOT Hijaab

You CANNOT use chiffon or other see through material to cover your hair and body. Everything should be covered and the color of the skin [and hair] underneath should not be visible.

The Prophet (Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam) once received a thick garment as a gift. He gave it to Osamah ibn Zayd, who in turn gave it to his wife. When asked by the Prophet why he did not wear it, Osamah indicated that he gave it to his wife. The Prophet then said to Osamah “Ask her to use a ‘gholalah’ under it (the garment) for I fear that it (the garment) may describe the size of her bones.” (Ahmad, Abi-Dawood)

(The word gholalah in Arabic means a thick fabric worn under the dress to prevent it from describing the shape of the body).

The Hijaab shouldn’t attract attention

The dress should not be such that it attracts men’s attention to the woman’s beauty. Allaah clearly states “not to display their beauty (zeenah).” Yet, Subhaan Allaah, some Hijaabi sisters are dressed in such a way that they attract more attention to themselves than they would if they didn’t wear Hijaab!!

How could such zeenah be concealed if the dress is designed in a way that it attracts men’s eyes to the woman? It beats the purpose of Hijaab.

Allaah tells us: “And stay in your houses, and do not display yourselves like those of the times of ignorance…” [al-Ahzaab:32]

What about make-up and perfume???

Wearing make up is also part of the zeenah that Allaah orders us NOT to display. So if your head and body are appropriately covered yet you are wearing bright red lipstick or dark eyeliner such that people confuse between you and a raccoon… uh sorry, that’s not Hijaab.

And keep those nice fragrances for the home, between you and your husband. That’s part of Hijaab too, even if you are going to the Masjid.

The Prophet (Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam) said: “Any woman who puts on perfume and passes by people so that they can smell her fragrance, is an adulteress.” (al-Nasaa’i, Tirmidhi: hasan by Albaani)

Tinkling Jewelry and Jingling Bracelets – ‘Loud’ and tinkling anything, be it jewelry, bracelets, clip-clopping shoes, little bells on clothes, you name it – if it jingles or makes noise, it is against the principles of Hijaab, because it attracts attention to the one wearing it.

That is what is meant when Allaah orders us in the above verse… “not to strike their feet (on the ground) so as to make known what they hide of their adornments.”

No laughing, joking, or hanging out with non-Mahrams

Some sisters assume that since they are properly covered, its okay for them to sit around and talk, laugh, joke, etc. with the men, but that’s not right, even if he is ‘the Shaikh’.

Allaah says: “… then be not soft in speech, lest he in whose heart is a disease should be moved with desire, but speak in an honorable manner.” [al-Ahzaab:32]

So talk to them when there is a specific need, and in a manner that is not necessarily rude, yet it is polite but firm.

Staring at the brothers or ‘checking them out’ is NOT Hijaab

Allaah orders us to “lower your gaze” in the above verse. Why? Because a single ‘look’ can say more than a thousand words. So, even if you are properly covered, keep those eyes down, conduct yourself with ‘Hayaa,’ and avoid ‘fitnah.’

‘Chatting’ on the internet/phone is not part of Hijaab, either

There is no such thing as “we’re just friends.” Talking to non-Mahrams is wrong even if it is through the internet or telephone. There are too many stories of illegal relationships, fornication, broken homes, extra-marital affairs and runaway brides to even mention. That is why in Islam anything that leads to haraam is also haraam.

Allaah says: “Do not (even) come close to fornication, for it is an indecency, and its way is evil.” (Surah Israa:32)

Be careful, even in the way you walk

Remember, you are not a runway model displaying the latest fashion. Walk with modesty and hayaa and you will be respected.

The Prophet (Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam) said: “There are two types of the people of Hell that I have not seen yet… women who are clothed yet naked, walking with an enticing gait…” (Muslim).

Don’t shake hands with non-Mahrams.

Its part of Hijaab. It is not permissible to shake hands with a non-Mahram, because the Prophet (Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam) said: “For one of you to be stabbed in the head with an iron needle is better for him than to touch a woman who is not permissible for him.” (at-Tabaraani saheeh by al-Albaani).

And no, it is not rude to refuse to shake hands with non-Muslims. Simply politely explain that its part of your religion and they are very understanding.

Stay away from the men’s areas

I see many sisters entering the Masjid from the men’s entrance, or standing idle in the hallways or where there is a chance of unnecessary mixing with the brothers.

What for? Don’t we have a separate entrance for ourselves? Why do you think Allaah ordained the Hijaab in the first place? To avoid fitnah, by reducing temptation and separating the genders.

The Prophet (Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam) said to the women on his way out of the mosque when he saw men and women mixing together on their way home: “Give way (i.e., walk to the sides) as it is not appropriate for you to walk in the middle the road.” Thereafter, women would walk so close to the wall that their dresses would get caught on it.” (Abu Dawood)

Hijaab is also to conceal your sister

Although some sisters wear the Hijaab themselves, they forget that they cannot talk about another sister and her beauty in front of their own husbands, brothers, etc. Remember, part of your Hijaab is to cover your sister’s ‘awrah’ as well.

The Prophet (Sal Allaahu Alaiyhi wa Sallam) said: “No woman should mix with a woman and describe her to her husband so that it is as if he can see her.” (Muslim)

May Allah guide us and bless us with the TRUE understanding of His Deen. Ameen.

[Author Unknown. "I Got it Covered"]

He’s Like A Brother

[By Naiyerah Kolkailah]

“You’re just like a brother to me!” she’d often tell her Muslim college friend whom she’s grown close to over the years. She feels comfortable with confiding in him, trusting him, opening up to him – but she’s never thought of him as a husband. They hang out together during their breaks, she calls him whenever she needs to vent, and she loves how he’s never judgmental towards her. To him, she was a friend at first — but he soon discovered that he’d often feel a tinge of jealousy whenever she spoke nonchalantly and joked with other male classmates. It burned him inside, and he’d always try to pull her away casually without making his irritation apparent. Many times, he’d look at her with admiration, smiling and melting away with his dreams of what could be for them. He would never dare bring up marriage to her, though. How could he when she only viewed him as her brother?

So, would you call these two good friends? Brother and sister maybe? Boyfriend and girlfriend? As with many cases in the Muslim community, this is a confused pseudo-marriage framed under the guise of friendship or an innocent brotherly bond. As the two become lax in their interaction, their hearts naturally – albeit unintentionally – gravitate towards each other, their minds become occupied with each other, and one or both parties eventually develop feelings that either remain trapped or expressed and acted upon unlawfully. With their increasing closeness and intimacy, the special reserves of loyalty, emotional sentiments and halaal physical attraction may be exhausted before their rightful outlet in marriage. If they end up not getting married and search elsewhere for a partner, they may never be content because they can’t resist comparing potential spouses with their former “friend”. Even if they eventually marry someone else, they will always have a history, and sometimes Shaytan can push them to reconnect and rekindle that past relationship during marriage.

It is no wonder why our wise Creator `azza wa jall, who is well aware of our natures and inclinations, says in the Qur’an “…Nor of those who take (boy)friends…(4:25). With many commands and prohibitions in Islam, Allah has mercifully forbade the prerequisite acts that would lead to major sins. He is protecting us from Shaytan and from falling prey to our desires, which saves us the emotional distress and painful regret that often come as a consequence to disobedience.

It’s also no wonder why it is purer and more chaste for both men and women to lower their gaze when speaking to those of the opposite gender (24:30-31), and to focus only on the tasks necessitating their communication. Remember Musa (`alayhissalam ) with the two daughters of Shu`ayb? Their interaction and communicating was exuding hayaa’ and self-respect; Musa (as) never struck personal, unwarranted conversation with them and when one of the daughters informed Musa (as) that her father is inviting him to reward him for his assistance, she walked (and spoke) with utmost modesty and dignity.

One of the greatest manifestations of modesty and also a safeguard to indecent conduct is the Muslimah’s Islamic dress. Besides obeying Allah and the Messenger’s commands in wearing loose, non-transparent, non-perfumed clothing, the attire brings with it an entire set of behavioral traits that the Muslim woman finds befitting to uphold. She is no longer comfortable mingling with men, joking and laughing loudly with them – or behaving in any way that may ignite their desires. Her taqwa (God-consciousness) and hayaa’ with Allah become embodied in all her mannerisms – her body language, how she speaks and carries herself – and reminds her of amicably maintaining the boundaries that Allah and the Messenger (peace be upon him) would be pleased with.

There is a profound hadith of the Prophet (peace be upon him), which if practiced and truly believed in, can adorn our lives with blessings and many successes. It states: “There is nothing that you leave out of God-consciousness except that Allah will compensate you with something better” (Ahmad). We all long for acceptance and relationships that quell our loneliness and make us feel needed and loved. Perhaps if we devote our lives to increasing our love for Allah and gaining His love in return, He will bless us with halaal relationships that will be the greatest source of happiness, love, loyalty and compassion in this life and the better one to come.

["He’s Like A Brother". Muslimah Source.]