What Islam says about ''Terrorism'' !
Video : What the Prophet (Peace and blessings be upon him) said about Christianity !
Terrorism : Islam Viewpoint
Terrorism : Definition
Islam's Remedy for Extremism & Terrorism
Jihad is not Terrorism
Who is the Real Terrorist ?
Misgivings about Jihad
Terrorism : Islam Viewpoint
Terrorism : Definition
Islam's Remedy for Extremism & Terrorism
Jihad is not Terrorism
Who is the Real Terrorist ?
Misgivings about Jihad
more coming soon
Shaykh al Islam on Terrorism
This question was asked in the wake of the recent terrorist acts perpetrated by those claiming to be Muslims and acting in the name of Jihad. There is also clarification of the Islamic Ruling on Suicide Bombers.
This is the reply Hadrat Shaykh al Islam gave to the question...
'This is a disease spreading throughout the modern world, where the irresponsible words and actions of certain powerful Government leaders triggers and spurs a violent and grotesque reaction amongst individuals or some politically inclined groups which is then highlighted by the world media as 'Islamic Terrorism'. Nothing can be further from the truth. If only people read and try to understand the real teachings of this great faith, for Islam is the most peace loving and tolerant religion.
Islam teaches us to show care and compassion even towards the plants and animals. To inflict destruction, harm or injury towards them is deemed as a major sin, so how can anyone under any circumstances justify the killing or maiming of innocent human beings? Even during the times of war when the Blessed Companions of our Noble Messenger peace be upon him were engaged in battle they had clear instructions to spare the elderly and those who cultivate the land. They were also informed to treat the prisoners of war humanely and to feed them as they would expect to be fed. Those prisoners who taught the illiterate how to read and write were freed and it was through observing this compassion and good nature of the Muslims when they expected to be ill-treated and abused that many converted to Islam.
To commit suicide is Haraam, clearly a forbidden act. Such a person who ends his/her life this way will be answerable to the Almighty Allah who gives and takes life. He grants us life and has commanded us to fulfil it according to His law and order. We as mere mortals have no say or control as to when we are given life and when it is ended. Those who intentionally end their life through their own actions are committing a major error of sin. And those who end their life in such a manner by blowing themselves up thus killing many innocent civilians with them thinking it is an act of 'Jihad' or Islamically acceptable are surely brainwashed by the leaders of these extremist groups and organisations. The leaders of such groups and sects use these gullible recruits to fulfil their own ambitions such as to gain control of a disputed territory. Many a times the aftermath of a foreign invasion ignites rival groups and sects of improper and radical views to engage in civil warfare.
No religion teaches or encourages violence, hatred or even terrorism for that matter but to drag the great religion of Islam to such debacle and debate is nothing short of absurd. Undoubtedly the real enemies of Islam are working and planning day in day out conspiring and conniving every possible opportunity to tarnish the pure name of Islam. The new found 'Terrorist' label they have associated with it is certainly helping their cause especially with the rising number of suicide bombers and fanatical organisations. But we are all sensible enough to understand that the woeful and evil actions of an individual or groups of individuals does not and cannot change the teachings of a Global Faith. The message of Islam is precisely today as it was over 1400 years ago; teaching and encouraging peace, tolerance and love. How can we forget the Prophet's last sermon, ''You are all the children of Adam, there is no superiority of an Arab over a Non-Arab, the Non-Arab over the Arab or the white over the black nor the black over the white except those who are righteous and have good hearts''.
One has to be very careful when talking and discussing these issues in the present sensitive climate. When we condemn the actions of the extreme Wahhabi/Salafi and Shi'ites who have blood on their hands, are responsible for the murder of many innocent bystanders but unconcerned and engaged in terrorist activity in the way of suicide bombings, kidnapping and beheadings, the observers immediately imply that we are supporting the right wing regimes whose ultimate aim is to divide the Muslims even further and tarnish the name of Islam. And when we equally condemn those administrations for instigating and fuelling terrorism, for their illegal interventions and destruction of foreign lands, their lies and hypocrisies and greed for oil and power the observers are quick to jump at the chance to label us as supporters or sympathisers of Al-Qaeda. It is for this reason many people choose not to openly talk on these issues however The Ahl as-Sunnah w'al Jama'ah denounce and distance themselves from such dirty policies and politics and choose to live and be governed by the beautiful teachings and the life of the Last Messenger of Allah, may infinite peace and blessings be upon him.'
By the sword ?
Was Islam Spread By The Sword?
Q] How can Islam be called the religion of peace when it was spread by the sword?
A] It is a common complaint among some non-Muslims that Islam would not have millions of adherents all over the world, if it had not been spread by the use of force.The following points will make it clear, that far from being spread by the sword, it was the inherent force of truth, reason and logic that was responsible for the rapid spread of Islam.
1. Islam means peace.
Islam comes from the root word 'salaam', which means peace. It also means submitting one's will to Allah (Subhanahu wa ta'ala). Thus Islam is a religion of peace, which is acquired by submitting one’s will to the will of the Supreme Creator, Allah (Subhanahu wa ta'ala).
2. Sometimes force has to be used to maintain peace.
Each and every human being in this world is not in favour of maintaining peace and harmony. There are many, who would disrupt it for their own vested interests. Sometimes force has to be used to maintain peace. It is precisely for this reason that we have the police who use force against criminals and anti-social elements to maintain peace in the country. Islam promotes peace. At the same time, Islam exhorts it followers to fight where there is oppression. The fight against oppression may, at times, require the use of force. In Islam force can only be used to promote peace and justice.
3. Opinion of historian De Lacy O'Leary.
The best reply to the misconception that Islam was spread by the sword is given by the noted historian De Lacy O’Leary in the book "Islam at the cross road" (Page 8): "History makes it clear however, that the legend of fanatical Muslims sweeping through the world and forcing Islam at the point of the sword upon conquered races is one of the most fantastically absurd myth that historians have ever repeated."
4. Muslims ruled Spain for 800 years.
Muslims ruled Spain for about 800 years. The Muslims in Spain never used the sword to force the people to convert. Later the Christian Crusaders came to Spain and wiped out the Muslims. There was not a single Muslim in Spain who could openly give the adhan, that is the call for prayers.
5. 14 million Arabs are Coptic Christians.
Muslims were the lords of Arabia for 1400 years. For a few years the British ruled, and for a few years the French ruled. Overall, the Muslims ruled Arabia for 1400 years. Yet today, there are 14 million Arabs who are Coptic Christians i.e. Christians since generations. If the Muslims had used the sword there would not have been a single Arab who would have remained a Christian.
6. More than 80% non-Muslims in India.
The Muslims ruled India for about a thousand years. If they wanted, they had the power of converting each and every non-Muslim of India to Islam. Today more than 80% of the population of India are non-Muslims. All these non-Muslim Indians are bearing witness today that Islam was not spread by the sword.
7. Indonesia and Malaysia.
Indonesia is a country that has the maximum number of Muslims in the world. The majority of people in Malaysia are Muslims. May one ask, "Which Muslim army went to Indonesia and Malaysia?"
8. East Coast of Africa.
Similarly, Islam has spread rapidly on the East Coast of Africa. One may again ask, if Islam was spread by the sword, "Which Muslim army went to the East Coast of Africa?"
9. Thomas Carlyle.
The famous historian, Thomas Carlyle, in his book "Heroes and Hero worship", refers to this misconception about the spread of Islam: "The sword indeed, but where will you get your sword? Every new opinion, at its starting is precisely in a minority of one. In one man’s head alone. There it dwells as yet. One man alone of the whole world believes it, there is one man against all men. That he takes a sword and try to propagate with that, will do little for him. You must get your sword! On the whole, a thing will propagate itself as it can."
10. No compulsion in religion.
With which sword was Islam spread? Even if Muslims had it they could not use it to spread Islam because the Qur’an says in the following verse: "Let there be no compulsion in religion: Truth stands out clear from error" [Al-Qur’an 2:256]
11. Sword of the Intellect.
It is the sword of intellect. The sword that conquers the hearts and minds of people. The Qur’an says in Surah Nahl, chapter 16 verse 125: "Invite (all) to the way of thy Lord with wisdom and beautiful preaching; and argue with them in ways that are best and most gracious." [Al-Qur’an 16:125]
12. Increase in the world religions from 1934 to 1984.
An article in Reader’s Digest 'Almanac', year book 1986, gave the statistics of the increase of percentage of the major religions of the world in half a century from 1934 to 1984. This article also appeared in 'The Plain Truth' magazine. At the top was Islam, which increased by 235%, and Christianity had increased only by 47%. May one ask, which war took place in this century which converted millions of people to Islam?
13. Islam is the fastest growing religion in America and Europe.
Today the fastest growing religion in America is Islam. The fastest growing religion in Europe in Islam. Which sword is forcing people in the West to accept Islam in such large numbers?
14. Dr. Joseph Adam Pearson.
Dr. Joseph Adam Pearson rightly says, "People who worry that nuclear weaponry will one day fall in the hands of the Arabs, fail to realize that the Islamic bomb has been dropped already, it fell the day MUHAMMED (pbuh) was born".
Terrorism
Terrorism : Islam's Viewpoint
Reprinted from the Muslim World League Journal
Jumad AI-Ula 1423 - July 2002
During its sixteenth session, which was held between 21-27 Shawwal 1422 H (5-10 January 2002), the Islamic Fiqh Council laid emphasis on the fact that extremism, violence, and terrorism have no connection whatsoever with Islam. In fact, they are manifestations of perilous acts with dangerous consequences, and an aggression and iniquity against the individual.
Whosoever carefully studies the two sources of the Shari'ah (Islamic law), namely the Book of Allah [the Qur'an] and the Sunnah (Traditons) of Prophet Muhammad (Peace & Blessings be upon), would discover that they are devoid of any import of extremism, acts of violence or terrorism, which imply carrying out aggression against others without a just cause.
Therefore, in order to draw an Islamic definition of terrorism that unites the vision and attitudes of all Muslims; and in order to clearly state this fact and highlight the danger of associating Islam with extremism and terrorism, the Islamic Fiqh Council presents the following definition of terrorism and Islam's attitude toward it both to the Muslims and the world at large.
Definition
Definition of Terrorism
'Terrorism' is an outrageous attack carried out either by individuals, groups or states against the human being (his religion, life, intellect, property and honour). It includes all forms of intimidation, harm, threatening, killing without just cause and everything connected with any form of armed robbery, hence making pathways insecure, banditry, every act of violence or threatening intended to fulfil a criminal scheme individually or collectively, so as to terrify and horrify people by hurting them or by exposing their lives, liberty, security or conditions to danger; it can also take the form of inflicting damage on the environment or on a public or a private utility or exposing a national or natural resource to danger.
All these are manifestations of the mischief in the land, Allah the Almighty has prohibited Muslims from committing. Allah says in the Qur'an al kareem:
"And seek not occasions for mischief in the land: for Allah loves not those who do mischief. " (28:77)
Hence Allah (Exalted is He) did not only enact deterrent punishment against terrorism, aggression and corruption, but considers these acts tantamount to waging war against Allah and His Beloved Messenger (Peace and abundant blessings upon him). Allah says in the Qur'an:
"The punishment of those who wage war against Allah Almighty and His Messenger (Peace and abundant blessings upon him), and strive with might and main for mischief through the land is: execution, or crucifixion, or cutting off of hands and feet from opposite sides, or exile from the land: That is their disgrace in this world, and a heavy punishment is theirs in the hereafter. " (5:33)
Obviously, in view of the enormity of such acts of aggression, which are viewed by the Shari'ah (Islamic law) as an act of war against the laws and the creatures of God, there is no stricter punishment anywhere in the manmade laws. Moreover, according to the Islamic Fiqh Council, there are various forms of terrorism, which include state terrorism, the most conspicuous illustration and the most heinous of which is practiced aggresively in Palestine today by the Israelis, previously by the Serbs in Bosnia-Herzegovina and Kosovo, by the Russians in Checheniya and more recently by western governments in Afghanistan and Iraq and supported the Israeli massacre in Lebanon.
According to the Islamic Fiqh Council, state terrorism is the most menacing to security and peace in the world.
Remedy
Islam's Remedy for Extremism & Terrorism
In combating terrorism and protecting society against its evil consequences, Islam is a trail-blazer. Through clear-cut limitations that must not be trespassed, Islam urges the protection of human life, honour, property, religion and intellect. Allah the Almighty says in the Qur'an:
"If any do transgress the limits ordained by Allah, such persons wrong themselves as well as others. " (2:229)
Accordingly, in furtherance of this honour bestowed upon mankind, Islam prohibit[s] man's injustice to his fellow man, and condemn[s] those who cause harm to people, not only in the Muslim world, but anywhere in the world. Allah says in the Qur'an al kareem:
"Say: The things that my Lord has indeed forbidden are; shameful deeds, whether open or secret; sins and trespasses against truth or reason."
And:
"When he turns his back, his aim everywhere is to spread mischief through the earth and destroy crops and progeny. But Allah loves not mischief. When it is said to him 'Fear Allah,' he is led by arrogance to (more) crime. Enough for him is Hell - an evil bed indeed to lie on." (7:33 & 2:205-206)
Furthermore, Islam ordered its adherents to keep away from anything that may cause turmoil among the people, and warned at the same time, against its evil consequences. Allah says in the Qur'an:
"And fear tumult or oppression, which affects not in particular (only) those of you who do wrong: And know that Allah is strict in punishment." (8:25)
In Islam, both the individual and the community are exhorted not only to tow the line of moderation, but likewise, to root out extremism and religious intolerance which are sure to destroy the mankind. The Most Beloved Prophet (Peace and Blessings upon him) said in a report by Imams Ahmad and Al-Nissaie:
"Beware of excesses in matters of religion. For, as a matter of fact, those before you were destroyed by religious immoderation."
Islam also addressed the issue of evil tendencies that are apt to lead to intimidation, terrifying, horrifying and killing without any just cause. The Beloved Prophet (Peace and Blessings upon him) said:
"A Muslim must not terrify a fellow Muslim."
And:
"Whoever points an iron rod towards his brother, the angels shall go on cursing him until he stopped, even if he (the victim) happens to be his full brother (from the sides of his father and mother)." (Sahih Muslim)
With regard to the Dhimmis (Non-Muslims living under Muslim protection), Islam ordered that they must be treated justly. It gave them rights and imposed duties on them. It gave them security in the Muslim world, and imposed blood-money and expiation for an act of killing committed against anyone among them. Allah says:
"If he belonged to a people with whom you have a treaty of mutual alliance, blood-money shall be paid to his family, and a believing slave be freed. " (Qur'an 4:92)
Furthermore, in conformity with the saying of the Beloved Prophet (Peace and Blessings upon him), Islam prohibits the slaying of a Dhimmi living in the Muslim world.
"Whoever kills a person under the contract of protection shall never smell the scent of Paradise." (Ibn Majah)
Moreover, Islam does not forbid its followers from being charitable towards those who do not fight them or expel them from their homes. Allah says in the Qur'an:
"Allah forbids you not, with regard to those who fight you not for your faith, nor drive you out of your homes, from dealing kindly and justly with them: For Allah loves those who are just. " (60:8)
And:
"And let not the hatred of others to you make you swerve to wrong and depart from justice. Be just: that is next to piety: and fear Allah. For Allah is well-acquainted with all that you do." (5:8)
In view of the foregoing, therefore, the Islamic Fiqh Council would like to make it public that the crime of taking away one life without a just cause is tantamount to killing all people, whatever the faith of the murdered or the murderer; and that punishments and retributions are solely the prerogative of the ruler, not of individuals or groups.
Jihad is not ...
Jihad is not Terrorism
In Islam, Jihad is ordained to uphold right, repel injustice and establish justice, peace, security and clemency, with which the Beloved Prophet (Peace & Blessings be upon him) was sent to take mankind out of darkness into light. More specifically, Jihad has been ordained to eliminate all forms of terrorism, and to defend the homeland against occupation, plunder and colonialism.
Jihad is waged against those who support others in driving out people out of their homes, as well as against those who are in breach of their covenants. Jihad is meant to avoid tempting away Muslims from their faith or restricting their freedom to conduct peaceful propagation of their religion. Allah the Almighty said:
"Allah forbids you not, with regard to those who fight you not for your faith, nor drive you out of your homes, from dealing kindly and justly with them: For Allah loveth those who are just. "
And:
"Allah only forbids you, with regard to those who fight you for your faith, and drive you out of your homes, and support others in driving you out, from turning to them (for friendship and protection). !t is such as turn to them in these circumstances that do wrong." (Qur'an 60:8-9)
Islam has crystal clear rules and provisions that forbid the killing of non-combatants, innocent persons, such as the elderly, women and children; pursuit of fleeing persons, slaying persons who have surrendered, injuring prisoners, or mutilating the bodies of the dead, or destroying structures and buildings that have no connection with combat.
Thus it is illogical to equate violence committed by usurpers and tyrants who violate human dignity, defile sanctuaries and plunder wealth, with the right of legitimate self-defense, exercised by the oppressed in asserting their legitimate right of self-determination.
In view of the above, the Islamic Fiqh Council would like to call the attention of all nations, peoples and organizations of the world to the necessity of drawing a distinction between legitimate Jihad against aggression or oppression designed to establish truth and justice, and the act of violence which aims at occupation of land, encroaching on national sovereignty and terrifying civilian populations and turning them into refugees.
Who is the real terrorist?
The Human Rights Foundation condemns the unjustified war assault upon the poor, innocent and defenceless people in Afghanistan. This is an unjust war being waged by the strongest country in the world against the poorest country in the world. The US has contemptously rejected many appeals to prove their case against Osma Bin Laden in an independant international court. Surely the US has nothing to fear if its case is as watertight as it would lead us to believe? Or are the public concerns expressed by US officials about the "holes" in their evidence the main reason for the US to refuse this request. Is George Bush junior any different from his father who said "I will never apologise for the United States of America. I don't care what the facts are" (George Bush (snr) ( "The Rogue State", William Blum)
The entire basis for the war is unproven allegations which rightly should have been submitted to an impartial independent court such as the International Court of Justice ( ICJ). It is interesting that the US and Israel are the two countries which have been most reluctant to give their support to the establishment of the International Criminal Court which could also have had jurisdiction.
The U.S. attack is not war but a reckless, emotional act of revenge under the banner of fighting for freedom and human rights. "US Policy, under the banners of freedom and human rights, has led to barbarous criminal acts" Institute for Policy Studies, Washington.
It must be remembered that the attack on the Twin Towers was not perpetrated by the government of Afghanistan. The attack was by alleged individuals. War is a state of hostilities between two countries. Instead of attacking the perpetrators for an alleged "war" on the U.S. ( which the Twin Towers attack was not ) the U.S. has declared war on the government and people of Afghanistan.
Afghanistan is so hopelessly outmatched by the superior military capability of the US that it is effectively a mass murder and a slaughter of the innocents. George Bush has said that he wants Osma Bin Laden "Dead or Alive"as in the days of the Wild West.
The U.S. attack on Afghanistan is not even a terrorist attack - it is worse. "Terrorist attacks" by 'freedom fighters' are attacks by the weak designed to draw attention to a just cause and are usually resorted to by people who have exhausted all other means to draw attention to injustices and oppression. Our own history shows that the US and the apartheid regime in South Africa called the ANC a 'terrorist organisation' while we called them 'freedom fighters'. The US has a perverted sense of values: It was the strongest ally of the former apartheid regime in SA and responsible for the arrest and imprisonment Nelson Mandela for 27 years as a result of the provision of intelligence by the CIA to the former apartheid government. The US voted against many resolutions at the United Nations which sought to impose sanctions against apartheid South Africa. This is the same US which claims to act in the interests of worldwide "freedom and democracy"
We must not lose sight of the important distinction between a "freedom fighter" and a "terrorist" or we will fall into the US propaganda trap of demonizing all people (as well as their "moral supporters" and the countries in which they live in and the religion they happen to follow) who have no other option but to use "terrorist activity" as a political weapon. The US has made it clear that it will not distinguish between the "terrorist" and the country that "harbours" a terrorist. What does this mean? It means that any country in which there are known "terrorists" (by the US definition of terrorist which conveniently excludes itself and its allies ) is a potential target for "anti-terrorist activity" The US conducts its own covert operations ( "US terrorist activity" ? ) by allocating a budget of $30 Billion for this purpose. We need to differentiate between "harbouring" a terrorist and the need to request proof of the guilt of a person before action is taken.
History will record the mass murder and terror in Afghanistan by the U.S. ( which CNN prefers to refer to as the "War on Terror" ) as a shameful event in the history of mankind. The due process of law has not been followed and the US has assigned to itself the role of judge, jury and executioner against an entire country. Once a court has found and convicted the true perpetrators of the attacks than the appropriate punishment should be meted out to the real perpetrators. Prior to this any act of aggression and death caused is illegal and is nothing less than the murder of innocent people.
The US is using sophisticated computer controlled gunships in an international posse of countries involved in a wild-west style manhunt to "smoke out" their prey, such passion unbecoming of a world leader purporting to believe in civilised values. What the US is doing in Afghanistan is a systematic campaign of terror on a far more concerted basis than what it accuses the terrorists of the September 11 attack. The difference is that they do not care if the accused is guilty; nor do they care how many innocent civilians they kill in achievieng their military, economic and strategic objectives in the region. An indication of the continuing callous attitude of the U.S. is the reponse of Colin Powel in respect of question posed to him on the number of Iraqi's killed in the Gulf War when he said, "Its really not a number I'm terribly interested in" William Blum in "Rogue State" believes that if a list had to be compiled of Amercian leaders guilty of crimes against humanity, Colin Powel may be one of them. The deaths of civilians in this unjust war is referred to as 'collateral damage" by the US.
According to UN reports the effect of the war has caused a humanitarian crisis potentially affecting between 4-7 million civilians who face not only starvation but the effects of exposure to icy cold weather without any form of heating and medical supplies. The US, in order to mute world condemnation and in an attempt to win over the suffering people resorts to the insulting use of scattering haphazardly food for 37 000 people when those starving are in excess of 4 million. Before the war, aid agencies at least ensured that all those who needed food received it. However the actions of the U.S. has disrupted supply of aid and misinformed the public of the true humanitarian impact of the war reflecting the dishonesty of the U.S. in claiming concern for the Afghanistan people.
The Mute Complicity of the Media
The atrocities committed by certain nations often receive only passing attention. The media attention to the Twin Towers attack was of course necessary. However what is to be condemned and exposed is the lack of any attention by the mainstream media to atrocities of a similar or far greater magnitute in the the past 10 - 20 years, significant of which is the horrendous bombing of Iraq which led to the death of over 1.5 million people over the next 10 years and to this day the strangulating economic sanctions imposed by the US and UN on Iraq are the cause of the painful and excruciating deaths of 5000 children every month. Do you know what the impact is on a mother to watch a child die a long excruciating painful death due to starvation?
Every month 5000 children die in this cruel, inhuman way and the world does not even take notice.
Are they any less worthy of our attention than the 5000 people who died on September the 11th?
Do you know the psychological impact of being in Afghanistan at present when every moment of the day is like playing a game of Russian Roulette? When you have no idea when the next bomb will 'accidentally' miss its target and destroy your home? When you have nowhere to run because the borders are sealed? Besides an entire city in Afghanistan has no electricity and water as a result of the destruction of its infrastructure. This alone will cause countless deaths over the coming weeks. The refugee crisis is mounting and there are several hundred thousand refugees who have nowhere to go since all borders have been sealed.
"We will never see the smoke, and the fire, we never smell the blood, we never see the terror in the eyes of children, whose nightmares will now feature screaming missiles from unseen terrorists, known only as Americans" Martin Kelly (see Rogue State)
"It is a scandal in contemporary international law, that while "wanton destruction of towns , cities and villages " is a war crime of long standing , the bombing of cities from airplanes goes not only unpunished but virtually unaccused.
Air bombardment is state terrorism, the terrorism of the rich. It has burned up and blasted apart more innocents in the past six decades than have all the antistate terrorists who ever lived.
Something has benumbed our consciousness against this reality. In the United States we would not consider for the presidency a man who had once thrown a bomb into a crowded restaurant , but we are happy to elect a man who once dropped bombs from airplanes that destroyed not only restaurants but the buildings that surrounded them. I went to Iraq after the Gulf War and saw for myself what the bombs did ; "wanton destruction" is just the term for it."
-C.Douglas Lummis, political scientist. ( as quoted in "Rogue State", William Blum )
WHAT CAN YOU DO TO HELP?
The Human Rights Foundation intends to inform the public about many issues which are not given prominence in the mainstream media. We indend to further inform people of the facts relating to the crisis which will enable people to make an informed decision. We need your support and help in this regard. You can assist in one or more of the following ways:
a) Assist to distribute information, newsletters and pamphlets in your local area to inform people about the true situation. Please call us if you wish to set up a local sub-chapter of an anti-war coalition in your area. ( Act Now to Stop War and End Racism - A.N.S.W.E.R )
b) Assist by supporting the collections for humanitarian aid to Afghanistan.
c) Participate in a "National Conference on Human Rights" in which various organizations will be asked to deliberate over a period of 2 days to prepare a comprehensive well formulated plan of action to assist towards ending what amounts to shameful atrocities against the innocent Afghan population.
THE WAR ON ISLAM
The Book entitled "The War on Islam" by Enver Masud is a required read for any person who wishes to obtain facts about US foreign policy and actions of the US which you will not find on CNN or the mainstream news media. The Human Rights Foundation wishes to thank the author of the Book Enver Masud of the Wisdom Fund based in the USA for permission to print a special limited South African version of the latest edition of his book. His earlier version of this book is available in the U.S. for $ 18 plus shipping (Total of R 300 approx). We are pleased to announce that the Human Rights Foundation has secured the rights to publish this book which will be made available FREE in South Africa. We intend to publish 5000 copies of this book. Donations to defray the costs of printing the book and costs for these adverts would assist the Human Rights Foundation in continuing its activities which have until now been funded solely from our own private resources.
This book is also available in electronic format and the electronic version is also available free for non-commercial personal use. The web address at which this book can be downloaded is at www.twf.org
In this advert below we have publish key excerpts verbatim from the Book "War on Islam" to give the reader a good idea of the wealth of information contained in the book. The book will give answers to the following questions:
a) What is the track record of the United States in regard to respect for Human Rights?
b) Is this war being fought for the purpose of democracy and freedom or is there another motive?
c) Is the use of "secret evidence" by the United States acceptable in terms of the rights of the accused?
d) What is the record of Human Rights violations of the United States? Who is in fact the worlds worst violator of Human Rights and who can be called the Super Rogue state?
e) What are the real motives for US foreign policy?
f) What has been the US position on the formation of the International Criminal Court? Why is the US so concerned about the establishment of the ICC? Have any senior US officials ( past and present ) been found guilty of war crimes and who are these people?
g) What influence does Israel have on US policy?
The book "War on Islam" will give you answers to the above and many other questions. Please call us at
(012) 336-600 ext. 6425 if you wish to receive a free copy of the book "War on Islam" or if you wish to provide assistance in any way. We welcome any support in our struggle for world peace and justice for all.
Who is the real terrorist? Dr Ahmed AdamDr. M. Adam : Chairman - Human Rights Foundation Non-Profit Organization , Section 21 co.
Jihad
Misgivings about Jihad
By Prof. Ziauddim Ahmad
By Prof. Ziauddim Ahmad
In the wake of currents and cross currents of world events, it seems absolutely necessary to understand that Islam teaches to live in peace and preserve peace. It condemns aggression and advocates Jihad in the way of Allah, first against our "nafs" and "devil", and against those who disturb peace and violate the security of Muslim Ummah. It is an all round struggle and makes it obligatory for all Muslims to exercise all their powers, intellectual as well as physical, to preserve solidarity and peace. Now it seems imperative to discuss the real significance or Jihad in the light of glorious Qur'an and Sunnah. There is a great deal of misunderstanding in the West about the concept of Jihad in Islam that they believe that it is synonymous with "war" (Qital) undertaken for spreading Islam. It is most regrettable that even a number of our 'Ulema" are also under this impression and can not discern the distinction between Qital and Jihad as laid down in the Qur'an. A number of eminent western scholars, liked A.J. Wensink, in his book, "A Handbook of Early Muhammadan Traditions" uses the word Jihad for war". Similarly another writer Klein, in his book, "The Religion of Islam", comments in the same strain i.e. fighting against unbelievers.
The word Jihad is derived from "jahd" or "Juhd" which signifies exertion, striving and endeavor and ceaseless effort to one's utmost capacity bestowed by Allah. Its also used in the sense of exerting one's power and ability without implying any sense of war. In the language of Shariah this word is also used for war (Jiahad-bis Saif), with the object of bringing an end to oppression and aggression against Islam. Its object is not to "propagate Islam", but to remove those tyrannical forces which are inimical to Islam and are not prepared to give all a fair deal.
Islam is not a theoretical philosophy. The Qur'an and Prophet Muhammad (Peace and Blessings of Allah be upon him) envisaged a complete code of conduct and a way of human life and practical action, commandments and prohibitions, good action and service to mankind in all phases of human activities. The Qur'an emphasized Jihad for noble and hard work and not sitting idle like stagnant water but moving swiftly like the flowing currents of oceans. How vividly the Qur'an states;
"Those of the believers who sit idle other than those who strive in the way of Allah with their wealth and lives. Allah conferred on those who strive with their wealth and lives a rank above the sedentary. To all Allah has promised good, but He has bestowed on those who strive a great reward above the sedentary". (4:95)
The above verse has stated with clarity of diction that idleness and sitting with comfort and luxury is not tantamount to Jihad or striving. It is incumbent on us to dispel the great misconception prevalent among some of our scholars an Ulema about the word Jihad and Qital (war) as synonymous. Therefore the Qur'an has expressed "Jihad in way of Allah" and Qital in way of Allah" with distinctive clarification. Its practical example is clearly reflected in the life of the Noble Prophet (Peace and Blessings of Allah be upon him) who with his forbearance and patience boldly faced all privations and tribulations for thirteen years in Makkah in the spirit of Jihad. The hostility, persecutions physical torture an inhuman behavior of the pagans, all he bore valiantly with the inspiration of Allah.
Moreover, for ten years during his Madinah life he had to face most difficult problems and encounter wars with the pagans, which he overcame with his unimpeachable integrity and divine message in the light of Jihad as enjoined in the Qur'an:
"The true believers are those only who believe in Allah and his Messenger and then doubt not, but strive with their wealth and their lives for the cause of Allah. They are the truthful and sincere" (49.15).
Further it states,
"So those who have migrated and were driven forth their homes and have been persecuted in My Cause, and have fought and have been slain, verily I shall remit their evil deeds from them and verily I shall bring them into Gardens." ( 3:195 ).
Jihad also stands for performing noble deeds for elevating moral character and refinement to attain nearness to Allah and achieve His guidance as the Qur'an says;
"We shall guide those who strive in our cause to Our paths (of acceptance and nearness). Verily Allah is with those who do good." (29:69).
"We shall guide those who strive in our cause to Our paths (of acceptance and nearness). Verily Allah is with those who do good." (29:69).
In the above Surah the omnipotent Allah has laid the greatest stress on remaining fearless and steadfast to uphold the banner of Truth (Haq) and has mentioned such achievements of the past Prophets and messengers who faced all hardships with firmness and confidence and ultimately Allah blessed them with success as stated in the Qur'an:
"And who ever strives, strives only for himself, for verily Allah is altogether independent of his creatures of the world" (29:6).
"And who ever strives, strives only for himself, for verily Allah is altogether independent of his creatures of the world" (29:6).
Striving in the way of Allah and struggling with the greatest power and ability in the cause of Justice and Trust, unmindful of life and wealth or even family and children is an achievement of high order and excellence as the Divine Book expresses;
"And strive in the cause of Allah with the endeavour which is his right. He has exalted you and has laid no hardship on you in religion (Deen) the faith of your father Abraham." (22:78).
Jihad is also used for striving ceaselessly to remove ignorance and disseminate knowledge, learning and science. Islam has given top-priority to knowledge and pen but Muslim masses are groping in darkness. It also stands for enlightening the people with best refinements and human behaviour and conduct of life. Every individual should be replenished with his own culture and the current scientific and technological advancements and progress.
"Call them to the path of your Lord with wisdom and fair exhortation, and reason with them in the best way.'' (16:125).
This jihad for knowledge occupies a dominant position in the Muslim ethos and has worked as a torch-bearer of knowledge during the heyday of Muslim civilization. Jihad with wealth also plays an important role in reawakening the people to spend the way of Allah in the right channels for the good of mankind. If there is a dire need of wealth in some direction, it can be given preference over individual needs as the Noble companions of the Beloved Prophet (Peace and Blessings of Allah be upon him) did on various occasions by donating large amount of money; as the Qur'an depicts:
"Verily, those who believed and left their homes and strove with their wealth and their lives for the cause of Allah." (8:72).
The Qur'an is replete with verses emphasizing the value and significance of wealth in this respect:
"Go forth, light-armed and heavy-armed, and strive with your wealth and your lives in the way of Allah. That is best for you if you understand" (9;41).
"And strive in the cause of Allah with the endeavour which is his right. He has exalted you and has laid no hardship on you in religion (Deen) the faith of your father Abraham." (22:78).
Jihad is also used for striving ceaselessly to remove ignorance and disseminate knowledge, learning and science. Islam has given top-priority to knowledge and pen but Muslim masses are groping in darkness. It also stands for enlightening the people with best refinements and human behaviour and conduct of life. Every individual should be replenished with his own culture and the current scientific and technological advancements and progress.
"Call them to the path of your Lord with wisdom and fair exhortation, and reason with them in the best way.'' (16:125).
This jihad for knowledge occupies a dominant position in the Muslim ethos and has worked as a torch-bearer of knowledge during the heyday of Muslim civilization. Jihad with wealth also plays an important role in reawakening the people to spend the way of Allah in the right channels for the good of mankind. If there is a dire need of wealth in some direction, it can be given preference over individual needs as the Noble companions of the Beloved Prophet (Peace and Blessings of Allah be upon him) did on various occasions by donating large amount of money; as the Qur'an depicts:
"Verily, those who believed and left their homes and strove with their wealth and their lives for the cause of Allah." (8:72).
The Qur'an is replete with verses emphasizing the value and significance of wealth in this respect:
"Go forth, light-armed and heavy-armed, and strive with your wealth and your lives in the way of Allah. That is best for you if you understand" (9;41).
And
"The true believers are those only who believe in Allah and His Messengers and afterward doubt not. But strive with their wealth and their lives for the cause of Allah. They are the truthful and sincere" (49:15).
"The true believers are those only who believe in Allah and His Messengers and afterward doubt not. But strive with their wealth and their lives for the cause of Allah. They are the truthful and sincere" (49:15).
One of the traditions (hadith) also relates that a great jihad is to stand boldly and with confidence for justice and equity before a tyrant and affressor, (Trimidhi). In this context the world jihad is not used exclusively for fighting. Once the Beloved Prophet (Peace and Blessings of Allah be upon him) said :
Haj is the most excellent of the Jihad (Bukhari, 25:4), jihad includes the service of Islam in any form - by speech, pen, writing, teaching wealth or medicine. When the Prophet reached madinah, the Muslims were forced to struggle for or their very survival against a series of armed attacks by their enemies who became bolder and more bitter in opposition and mustered all their forces to wipe out the followers of Islam . The Muslims were obliged to take up arms in self-defence. This struggle was termed as Qital (war) as clarified in the following verse when permission was given to fight.
And fight in the way of Allah against those who fight against you and do not be aggressive; verily Allah does not love the aggressor" (2:190). This clearly shows that aggression was strictly prohibited. In such fights in the way of Allah those who sacrificed their lives were called Shaheed (martyrs) as expressed in the Qur'an.
"Think not of those who are slain in the way of Allah, as dead. Nay, they are alive finding, their sustenance in the presence of their Lord." (3:169).
Jihad is a life-long mission for the Muslims to fight against all evils-socio-economic, cultural, educational and political dogmas: supersitious and mythological concepts; and enlightenment, refinement, scientific progress, dignified character and honest actions.
Haj is the most excellent of the Jihad (Bukhari, 25:4), jihad includes the service of Islam in any form - by speech, pen, writing, teaching wealth or medicine. When the Prophet reached madinah, the Muslims were forced to struggle for or their very survival against a series of armed attacks by their enemies who became bolder and more bitter in opposition and mustered all their forces to wipe out the followers of Islam . The Muslims were obliged to take up arms in self-defence. This struggle was termed as Qital (war) as clarified in the following verse when permission was given to fight.
And fight in the way of Allah against those who fight against you and do not be aggressive; verily Allah does not love the aggressor" (2:190). This clearly shows that aggression was strictly prohibited. In such fights in the way of Allah those who sacrificed their lives were called Shaheed (martyrs) as expressed in the Qur'an.
"Think not of those who are slain in the way of Allah, as dead. Nay, they are alive finding, their sustenance in the presence of their Lord." (3:169).
Jihad is a life-long mission for the Muslims to fight against all evils-socio-economic, cultural, educational and political dogmas: supersitious and mythological concepts; and enlightenment, refinement, scientific progress, dignified character and honest actions.
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