Punjabi Vibes: A Cultural Obsession with Jugni

'Jugni' has a double meaning in Punjabi folklore. A literal translation is 'female firefly', while its meaning has also been construed in the Sufi circles to signify ‘light’. It has become more of a cultural obsession made linguistically into a Sufi song initially sung by Arif Lohar’s father, Alam Lohar, recently performed with a ‘chimta’ (traditional instrument which is tong-like in shape and made of brass jingles) and to the modernistic backdrop of Coke Studio.  Then, there are the Uncle Ji (Ji is a suffix used in order to give respect) tales of how they used to study in the post-Colonial era of the Pakistan and India separation, by using fireflies captured in jars as a source of light during periods of load-shedding which becomes the discourse of table-talk in a chai setting. Load-shedding action is to reduce the load on electricity provided by light, especially the interruption of an electricity supply to avoid excessive load on the generating plant. For that reason, it is boasted as to the great lengths they used to achieve the pursuit for the want of study and subtly hinted as to how we, the foreign born, have it very easy when it comes to learning within the English-medium language, as our first language, and, having easy access to electricity.  After all, the first command of the Quran is to read, “Iqra.” The second generation abroad-based Punjabi may think, “What better way to read, when surrounded by firefly light?" Right?

Ironically, during periods of load shedding was when the light by jugni was sought. In the darkest moments and when most needed.  A mystical experience as well as physical.  Everything is attracted to sources of light.  All of this could have happened, as difficult as it may have been!

In the spiritual journey context, the term signifies the whole of existence having little value until the Infinite Light of the True existence is cast into one’s heart; in a similar way to the firefly having light that never ceases to exist. The light of a firefly disappears at the time of dawn to reappear at night.  The essence always remains within. That is true beauty if we consider it more closely.  The creatures are of a dim light and created out of clay, though the more luminous fire is able to characterize it better.  These are the basic elements that are referred to in the Qu’ran which are cited as at the time of earliest of creation.  The slightest meditation, invocation or prayer is a release between the light and dark, to show that all things are relative. The amount of light one carries is always changing.  To carry it is in its spirit.  Early writings on Jugni are thus spiritual in nature and relate to one's understanding of the world and one's relationship with God. The term has been introduced from the teachings of Baba Bulleh Shah and popularity spread even to the screens of Bollywood.

Jugni can also be understood to all mystics who seek within.  Upon entering the inward self, the Guide heads toward the Unchangeable Light. Only this is able to purify.  The Light motif is used across most world scriptures and in all present within the sub-continent. Guru Nanak talks of the Unseen Supreme Being which can be seen via an inner light, Sufi mystics talk of Allah (God) being veiled by Light and the Gita talks of becoming what we see.  Hence, the mere contemplation of Light has an ability to transform into that energy.  

For such reasons the popularity touches the hearts of many Punjabis.  It has has become part of the defining moment in spirit and age.  It was also sung during a Jubilee celebration in Gujranwala, which followed a period of when Jubilee celebrations began in India when people started to wake up (jaagna) and became a movement of jugni.  The Sanskrit word ‘yug’, meaning life or being. It also means eternity or era. For that reason, the term extends across to all and is still relevant.

Since human institutions have failed us in trying to limit the findings of God, this is one of the only ways nothing will disappoint. When we open ourselves to the domain that is spirit, God’s gifts become abundant.  Jugni can contextualize the state of being woke, present in the moment and of a Guiding Light that leads us forward. Bring that light within.  Illuminate the world.  I’ll end this with the following quote:

    "Those who enshrine the Beloved in their hearts have both worlds at their command. Lovers remain completely intoxicated in the ecstasy of their love for the Beloved. They offer their souls to the Beloved while still living, and thus immortalize themselves in this life and in the hereafter." (Hazrat Sultan Bahu)

Transcend all boundaries.  Become immortal.  Bring light to the table.  Let it flow.

In a World full of Malalas, be your own Chaudhary!

Malala Yousafzai defied the Taliban in Pakistan and demanded that girls be allowed to receive an education. She was shot in the head by a Taliban gunman in 2012, but survived and went on to receive the Nobel Peace Prize. The push of Pakistan towards a western model in education leaves many questioning.  There is a perception that a focus of organizing children and creating a reliable, predictable environment leads to obedient citizens without the ability to use critical thinking.  Compulsory schooling has once been looked upon as a branch of industry and even a tool of governance by a former, award-winning teacher, John Gatto. Furthermore, traditions become abandoned in favor of:

“Limitless resources, and the people yield themselves with perfect docility to our molding hand. The present educational conventions fade from our minds; and, unhampered by tradition, we work our own good will upon a grateful and responsive rural folk. We shall not try to make these people or any of their children into philosophers or men of learning or of science. We are not to raise up among them authors, orators, poets, or men of letters. We shall not search for embryo great artists, painters, musicians. Nor will we cherish even the humbler ambition to raise up from among them lawyers, doctors, preachers, statesmen, of whom we now have ample supply."​ - Rev. Frederick T. Gates, Business Advisor to John D. Rockefeller Sr., 1913 [1]

Luckily for me, I also had the hand of visiting Pakistan and growing up in a Western world with an ability to challenge and question the teachings that I had been taught by way of curriculum or by media.  My Uncle taught me the virtue of being a “Chaudhary,” and how important land ownership was to the fertile lands of Punjab. The prestigious title and/or surname 'Chaudhary' originates from the Middle East in Asia and means the "holder of four" in its literal sense.  It refers to the status and wealth regarding money and land of a certain small percentage of people from countries such as Iran, Pakistan and Afghanistan (and others into which its people have migrated to over the years). Vast irrigation water systems, growing crop and raising cattle were all at the front of a life in what have become remote areas and discarded for the pursuit of a city life (for many.) The contrast was stark and apparent.  What I did not then realize was the access to a rural life was empowering.  I do recall in a visit to Pakistan having rice delivered after being harvested, the taste of fresh poultry and of butter that came in daily from the Buffalo that was close enough to the premises, but hidden behind the cement walls.  Breaking free from British India meant being self sufficient enough to rely on one’s own.  This was true independence and the breaking free of a slave cycle.  

After all, the British came to India and Pakistan in pursuit of spices, resources and to learn of In the  agricultural techniques which were practiced from which modern organic techniques are derived; where the fertilizers and pesticides were obtained from plant and animal products. Organic farming was the backbone of the economy at the time.  Marred by modernity, we all are now in favor of time saving mechanisms, more life spent on the cultivation of a “quality life” in favor of less cultivation of an authentic life.  By authentic, I mean less love and effort in clothing items, food grown and cooked and time spent in work and freeing oneself.  Now we are in the trappings of grocery items at stores, clothes that are manufactured and polluting our minds with idle trivialities.  Money and time appear to be in supply but we are not necessarily feeding with our own hands.  Let’s all take a step back and unlearn some of the lessons learned.  Are we truly free and fulfilled? Who’s hands are we serving? To be in touch with your soul, you need to be in touch with nature of better health and content with less. Therein lies the supply that can be filled over and over.  

Ex- Pat Aussie Musings: The Story of Mateship and of having a Fair Go

‘Mateship’ is an endearing value and characteristic of the ‘Australian way' implicit in the nation’s character which embodies in a 'fair go' egalitarianism. The word 'mate' is used to describe friends, colleagues, even just another person with whom you have just begun speaking terms with. It is speculated that the origins of the word come from the German term "gemate" which means to share a meal at the same table.

Both ‘mateship’ and the giving of a ‘fair go’ tap into the secular creed of the country and evoke a spirit that extends to break barriers. Though its ideology is secular, it is in line with the soul construct of what leads to contentment overall.  To give someone a ‘fair go’ is part of the Australian vernacular  that has often been used to demand or protest in favor of fairness - to be fair to someone by giving them a fair go.  It leaves one with not being ousted by hardship or a demand of backing off from unreasonableness. It also gives support to the party that does not have an upperhand in the matter before them.  A basic request for leniency. Every person endures a battle and is subsequently entitled to a ‘fair go’ as a result.

What’s more is that there has been political discourse and consideration of the inclusion of the term "mateship" in the preamble of the Australian constitution. The proposed change never passed the Senate:  

Australians are free to be proud of their country and heritage, free to realise themselves as individuals, and free to pursue their hopes and ideals. We value excellence as well as fairness, independence as dearly as mateship.

The concept is traced back to early colonial times due to the exposure that convicts had found themselves in. Both men and women closely relied on each other for help. The shared experience, mutual respect and unconditional assistance gave rise to this. Though it has been traditionally used by men, it has also been donned by females in favor of the spirit. It carried through World War I and the Australian Goldrush.  The dynamic changed during that period which included the massive influx of migrants from around the world including Asia, Europe and the Americas. Thus, it can serve as a force to cut down prejudice in race or disparity in wealth.

More recently, during the Sydney siege at the Lindt cafe, mateship was extended in one tweet whereby being Muslim and in the face of terror can also be daunting.  A hashtag and a tweetstorm was borne out of goodwill when an Asian Australian woman pledged to walk in solidarity with another woman who removed her hijab following the news of the siege.  The #illridewithyou stood in contrast with the way in which Americans handled any post terror attack. The response was more measured and a fresh approach welcomed by Muslims across the globe and represented progress.

In the exploration of their similarities and differences such things as attitudes toward equality, approaches to leadership, conversational styles, decision making, and risk taking all give rise to the wanting of the  same opportunities in life. This affords with an education and healthcare systems that provide high quality, world class healthcare and education to everyone. It has shaped a workplace where a higher minimum wage can exist. The welfare system means that streets aren’t full of beggars and homeless people. All of the above-listed, in turn, reduces the crime rate. An immigration system that is skills-based requires higher paid labor. This means most ‘Aussies’ clean their own homes and tend their own gardens, keeping them grounded. Viewing people as mates, reduces suspicion and a pro-gun or violent attitude.  

Patriotism and flag worship serves as a distraction to neighborly needs and that is why Australians do not engage in this behavior.  It needs to be seen that quality of a mateship is an act of being a patriot instead. At the end of the day, everybody demands to be treated fairly and equally.  The concept of mateship and fair go have proven to be timeless and have upheld and will continue to do so. Mateship speaks to many Australians in a way that global political discourse has failed others. It has been able to identify itself for over the course of more than 200 years of white-settler history, farmers, soldiers, laborers,bankers, poets, politicians and feminists.  It is time that its significance spoke to the rest of the world.  It shows a capacity to work together and challenges individualism.  In all things equal, then those who are different are also less dangerous. There is no need for fear mongering as a result.  

Rebuilding A New World Together: In the Context of the Soul’s Natural State

The Joker from The Dark Knight had cut scars into his cheeks, so it gives the impression of someone who is always smiling.  Instead of asking, “why so serious?” it would be a better question, in light of the current global situation, as to, “why so selfish?” This is because those scars would not have been required with the greater presence of selflessness, as opposed to being a force embodying themes of chaos, anarchy and obsession.

Everyday people are enduring a financial crisis, mental health problems, lack of meaningful relationships, stress or just plain being selfish.  People feeling as though their livelihoods are being threatened.  People so painstakingly aggressive, that you continually feel as though you have to defend yourself.  This is even though wealth may be more abundant, meaningful relationships are on the decline.  We are also seeing the effects of social media which encourages the use of that platform. That gives rise to the presence of individuality instead of community.  

We must seek to resurrect values built on relationships and engage in practices that strengthen an ethical life. This could be in the form of solidarity, where we actively share our fate with other people. The dynamic of living in a world of wants and haves has to shift.  We see, we want, we crave.  Living in a material world has no end. A selfish desire is driven by materialism. 

How do we avoid the trap? Don’t be blind to notice those around you. People should be a priority over possessions. Engage in an act of kindness a day.  Make time for somebody.  Watch the miracle unfold.  Make that impact.  Build neighborly relations. It only takes a smile.

Moreover, if one begins to move towards the default “factory setting” in which all humans are created, the moral inclination is towards caring for others and doing good.  The primordial state dictates that the spiritual and moral are interconnected.  This is what accounts for our “moral conscience.”  If it is not corrupted, our moral conscience will be upset when we know we are doing something wrong.  So to exhibit manners and desire reciprocation is only the natural state of the soul.  A concern for entities other than self gives rise to divisiveness.  Such resentment becomes a form of hostility within our self and amongst others.  None else other than a merciless fracking. Everybody is now on the lookout of how it will benefit me? How one benefits has become a bedrock in our society. Social cohesion is vitiated by universal dumping.  The generational gap of being in this together and having a sense of community is now the notion of being at each other’s throats.  

The emergence of a political and economic theory of social organization that advocates that the means of production, distribution, and exchange should be owned or regulated by the community as a whole is what part of socialism entails. Socialism assumes that the basic nature of people is cooperative. That nature hasn't yet emerged in full because capitalism or feudalism has forced people to be competitive. Therefore, a basic tenet of socialism is that the economic system must support this basic human nature for these qualities to emerge. It reduces the room made allowable for discrimination. 

The Prophet Muhammad said, “Righteousness is good character, while sin is that which agitates and disturbs your soul and you would hate others to uncover” (Sahih Muslim). The fitrah is like having an internal compass that always points in the direction of good works which bring us closer to God.

Ibn Taymiyyah (d.728H) writes, “Souls are naturally disposed (majbula) to love justice and its supporters, and to hate injustice and its supporters; this love, which is in the fitra, is what is meant for [justice] to be good.”  The moral values upon which we construct our lives stem from the intuitions which naturally arise in childhood and which are not stamped out by overriding sociocultural pressures.
Thus, it can be seen that a more meaningful life is comprised of ethical, spiritual, and intellectual processing functions by which the external reality is rendered meaningful, and life’s journey towards God is appropriately conceived. It is the natural and inherent needs—not wishes and desires—that are one’s true needs.

The paradox in generosity is when you give, is when you get. There is more to life than what you own and hold onto.  In giving there is receiving.  This reinforces that the universe is abundant, and you move yourself into a prosperous flow.  The best opportunities are the ones you create for others. We know that the state of a person in this world is temporary, and that the world was created in such a manner that there is enough for all to go around.  Let’s break this pattern.  We can do this.

A Muslim Woman's Day Reflection: We Do Not Require your Savior

March 24, 2017



Dear Western World,


The notion of being smugly superior lies in an ability to claim the, "Saving of our Grace." It must be understood that within Islam lies an ability for women to lead self-determined, and, fulfilling lives.  Though many Muslims and the countries that we reside in have not delivered, we prefer not to feign away from the problem, and, are well able to address the problem ourselves.  Muslim women are well-bodied and able to reclaim their history.  We do not require assistance in looking to our foundations and request that progression and ownership in the addressing of your own problems be made.

Suppression that is cultural or historical has little basis in the Quran and is inconsistent with the teachings of our Prophet Muhammad who was a feminist.  He was radical in his times for his principled reasoning as to the equality of women and men and active steps were taken to improve the status and role of women in Arabia during his own lifetime.  In his (PBUH) Last Sermon delivered we are told, “You have certain rights over women but they have certain rights over you.” Women, he said, are your “partners and helpers.” In one of his sayings, Muhammad says, “The best men are those who are best to their wives. " His very example in the relationships that he held within marriage were also to strong women who took on leadership roles during their lifetimes.

Moreover, women in seventh century Arabia had rights not extended to most women in the West until more recent centuries.   This was referenced by a Professor Jamila Hussain of the University of Technology, Sydney, whom upon tracing women's rights within history, decided to convert to Islam.  Additionally, the cultural norm of burying baby girls alive  due to it being seen as a financial burden on the family was strongly outlawed.   Rights of divorce and inheritance were given and clearly stipulated in the Quran. For those reasons, if a women failed to marry the choice of starvation and prostitution no longer became and option.

Muslim feminism has given the opportunity for several female heads of state, prime ministers, and state secretaries such as Lala Shovkat of Azerbaijan, Benazir Bhutto of Pakistan, Mame Madior Boye of Senegal, Tansu Çiller of Turkey, Kaqusha Jashari of Kosovo, and Megawati Sukarnoputri of Indonesia. In Bangladesh, Khaleda Zia was elected the country's first female prime minister in 1991, and served as prime minister until 2009, when she was replaced by Sheikh Hasina.

Western discourse has consistently argued that the hijab is not a symbol of freedom, but one of oppression.  However, research suggests that contrary to western notions, when Muslim women choose to wear the hijab as a way of showing self-control, power and agency. Often it is worn as a way of promoting their own feminist ideals by challenging men in taking control of the way in which they are viewed as, "sexualized objects." Sometimes it is simply worn as an act of worship for one's own spiritual quest.  It becomes oppression when the choice to wear is not their own.  It can also be said that there is nothing liberating in wearing next to nothing.  Nor is there compulsion within the religion of Islam.

The United Nations High Commission on Refugees (UNHCR) estimates that over three-quarters of the 4 million refugees from Syria are actually women and children. But protecting the most vulnerable is not on the list of priorities for  conservatives within the U.S.A.

By telling us that Muslim women need saving is an indictment of a mindset that has justified all manner of foreign interference, including military invasion, in the name of rescuing women from Islam.  A moral crusade to rescue oppressed Muslim women has justified all manner of intervention from the legal to the military and reduced Muslim women to a stereotyped cultural icon that has been alienated.

Nor, can the defending of the rights of Muslim women abroad as being offered as a rationale for military intervention be reconciled with the increase of hate crimes committed within the U.S.A.  As it currently stands, Muslim women are being assaulted both verbally and physically as well as being held back from positions of power and in progression within this society.  We are told foreign names, in particular, Muslim names are less employable.  Political views that are also held will be used and targeted against us on the very same foreign soil that is somehow projected in the Media as the very same being that is protecting us.  Ironically,  women in some Muslims countries make up a bigger percentage of engineering and medical faculties than women do in the U.S.A. For her part, Malala who was oppressed by the talibanization of Pakistan is now speaking against U.S. policy.

A statistic compiled by the World Health  organization (WHO) reveals 1 in 3 (33%) women are survivors of sexual violence or intimate partner violence.  This figure is actually low when encompassing all forms of sexual violence, including physical sexual harassment and, what many would consider, innocuous assault.  Those things do fall on the sexual assault spectrum, and they are traumatizing to varying degrees depending on the situation and individual. Bottom line, they are unwanted, nonconsensual sexual contact and it is not just Muslim women that need rescuing.  Women of colored minorities are reportedly missing within the U.S.A and incidences are on the rise.  When will the injustice against all women be a focal point and when will all women work for the sake of each other?  A Woman's March was held globally and conservative males in the U.S.A. are determining the rights to be held by women in the workplace environment.  Oppression is oppression and we need to see the end of all injustice and harm. Muhammad Ali Jinnah once said this quote and it still stands today:

“No nation can rise to the height of glory unless your women are side by side with you. We are victims of evil customs. It is a crime against humanity that our women are shut up within the four walls of the houses as prisoners. There is no sanction anywhere for the deplorable condition in which our women have to live.”

Sincerely,

#MuslimWomenAgainstOppression