The Iqbal, Junoon and Sufi Diaries is a Marriage Made in Heaven

...At least to me!

Music is a controversial topic in Islam. So is Sufism, to some. The poet Iqbal has been classified as blasphemy by others. What does that mean? Islam is solely dependent on a person’s relationship with their creator. A level of consciousness and perspective will vary from person to person and that is a testament to the Creator of itself.

So when era changes, societal norms and boundaries have shifted within paradigms and the application remains consistent proves one thing: the souls must become alive!

For me, that is the fervor of the fusion of Sufi Rock that is Junoon. The blend of culture, tradition in a background of guitar and tabla was the best way to carry a message. The awaam “public” is now awake. A new political party of Tehreek-E-Insaaf (PTI) is in place. To have a Junoon reunion now was only lacking. To see them reunite was EVERYTHING, to all of us, who had been yearning for that lost part of ourselves.

The use of khudi (oneself) and its use by Junoon and Iqbal is synonymous with the spirit as alluded to in the Quran. It is that divine spark present in every human being, and began in the first of humankind and will last until this world ends and will be taken into the next. Self-destruction is when life and its true purpose is not realized. For him, the aim of life is self-realization and self-knowledge.The stages through which the "self" has to pass before finally arriving at its point of perfection, enabling the knower of the "self" to become a vice-regent of God is what he charts as an evolution. Pakistan evolved in its vision and in it understanding of Islam with music.

Iqbal, the "spiritual father" and Junoon the "carrier of the message."  PTI put it all in place. Feed your souls, be visionary and lead by example. Apart from independence ideologies, let’s all be free to explore concepts of submission to Allah and following the path of Prophet Muhammad, Peace Be Upon Him.

Be an advocate, sip your chai (tea), ghoom (spinb) on after zamanay ke andaaz (the ways of the world) and begin to ab to jaag (to wake up). After all, Pakistanis are some of the most woke folk you will ever find and can be found in any corner of this world.

The letter W in Focus: Weighing the Scales Against the War on Terror and Bridging the Gap with the #MeToo

Lets’ focus on the letter W or و in Arabic and be wowed by these ten results:

1. W is for Dubya. If you ever perform a Google search on that term it means derogatory term or nickname for George W. Bush. It goes so far as to quote in Urban dictionary:

Did you know that the stock market dropped again today because Dubya made a speech? .. Did you ever realize that the first letter of war is Dubya! ... #dubya#george w bush#idiot#facist#president#pig#texas#mass-murderers 

2. W is also for the Weapons of Mass Deception. If a decision were to be made today in a court the finding would be: “Beyond reasonable doubt, I dub Dubya as being highly exploitative in the finding of Weapons of Mass Deception.”


3. W. Bush is also ranked as one of the W for worst of all time Presidents. Only W has been greeted by somebody having a shoe thrown at him.

4. W is for We. We also know this being skeptical about about claims that are not backed up by evidence is a moral virtue. For a moment, even if just a brief moment, let’s travel back in time. What if the Iraq invasion and WMD narrative was implemented prior to September 11 taking place? Would that change anything? Would your level of trust in a Government be undermined more had events been played in that order?

 5. W is also for World Public Opinion.org. A poll taken by them is a collaborative project of research centers in various countries managed by the Program on International Policy Attitudes at the University of Maryland, College Park, polled 16,063 people in 17 nations outside of the United States during the summer of 2008.

They found that majorities in only 9 of the 17 countries believe al-Qaeda carried out the attacks. 46 percent of those surveyed said al-Qaeda was responsible, 15 percent said the U.S. government, 7 percent said Israel and 7 percent said some other perpetrator. One in four people said they did not know who was behind the attacks. Of those who said the United States was the perpetrator, Kull says many believe it was an attempt to justify an impending U.S. invasion of Iraq. It found that 49 percent of New York City residents and 41 percent of New York state citizens believe individuals within the U.S. government "knew in advance that attacks were planned on or around September 11, 2001, and that they consciously failed to act."

 6. W is Why should we trust? Statistically not all Americans trust their Government and neither do the Pakistanis. Americans point to the Pakistanis as having lack of security, intelligence and resources, while Pakistanis point the finger right back and feel that they are in no position to even dare say that to us. The hypocrisy is present.

 7. W is Weighing Scales in courts of law. Kavanaugh is the bridge between Dubya and Trump. He was around when the riveting legal saga sparked by the George W. Bush administration’s decision to create a legal black hole at the U.S. Navy base there in which to imprison hundreds of men captured in Pakistan and Afghanistan in the aftermath of 9/11. Eventually, once the Bush tenure ceased and Guantánamo was promised to be closed by Obama. The military commission that is supposed to try the accused 9/11 perpetrators has yet to set a trial date after six years, there has seemed nothing to say.

Since his inauguration, President Trump has permitted the release of one Guantánamo detainee, leaving an inmate count of 40, down from 780 at its peak.

There’s no one on the D.C. Circuit who has played a larger role in defending the legality of the military commissions than Judge Kavanaugh. He responded that he was "not involved" in "questions about the rules governing detention of combatants." There was not a sufficient basis to initiate a criminal investigation.

Yet when accusations pertaining to him and sexual assault came forward, one thing became clear: Kavanaugh’s judicial and evidentiary standard shifted. Evidence mattered when it did not when it came to detainees at Guantanamo Bay. In law, we know that every criminal has the right to a fair trial. Burdens and standards should not shift based on the skin color of a person, as that undermines the rule of law for everybody.

The beyond reasonable doubt must remain. The whole of America still remains divided over the #metoo. She has otherwise remained mute for much of the Presidency and sends subliminal messages via clothing.

 8. W all leads to White Supremacy, or does it not? If anything ever became transparent under the Rule of Trump it was, white supremacy of white elite males only. Class, gender and skin color matter.

In retrospect, the Civil Rights Movement was a distraction and a divider and its fight has been dismissed and erased post-Obama. Slavery had never been abolished, nor had colonialism. It has shifted form. The imperialist mentality is still there.

Black singers and entertainers were taken, targeted and exploited for services and used to distract the masses. When the following became blind, their purpose was used to mislead. Presidential pardons only exist for a few. When Bin Laden worked for them, he was a freedom fighter. When against, a terrorist. The same with Saddam. The list continues. Majority of felons are black. Majority of cops killed by them are black. Arming white men with guns continues, despite public opinion growing against it. Dr. Aafia Siddiqui was wronged when it came to being implicated with charges of gun possession. Common sense dictates that a woman of her size is incapable of even carrying the rifle that she was claimed to have been holding. White terrorism continues on all fronts. The public demands transparency, accountability and equal rights. Quit with the hypocrisy.

 9. W is for women. Women account for fifty percent of the population. Their contribution to society is significant. You may know one as a mother, sister, wife, daughter.

Jinnah has said, “No struggle can ever succeed without women participating side by side with men. With faith, discipline and selfless devotion to duty, there is nothing worthwhile that you cannot achieve. No nation can rise to the height of glory unless your women are side by side with you.”

 Yet, they are being held back in wages, duties and capability. Naomi Wolf has cited that it the beauty myth, an obsession with physical perfection that traps the modern woman. There is the fuelling of images of hope, self-consciousness, and self-hatred as she tries to fulfill society's impossible definition of "the flawless beauty."

This also is the area in which women get dominated and bullied into thinking they are less superior. Women are more likely to rush to pursue the next makeup line instead of equal pay for equal work. They also have been silenced into taking sexual assault and harassment in the fear of losing job, position and power. The only areas where women earn more money than the average male are in areas of entertainment and where their images are sexually exploited and used.

Now women are feeling more capable o f taking a stance with the #metoo but even that is still a shift in mentality that will take time.

Accordingly, women are lead down a path of not fulfilling their true leadership potential. If you compare the time of the Prophet Muhammad and his wife Khadija, no wonder many Muslim women still yearn for that kind of relationship, love and respect in their ordinary lives. That was the time of where society, was in its peak. Where women’s rights were recognized. Where a woman marrying a younger man, with more business acumen was looked to and respected. She did not have to meet any beauty standard. Look at the current First Lady, a woman known only for her beauty and fashion. Her marriage to Trump is one of convenience. Is this the standard that we continue to want to send?

10. W stands for Wrong. Do not wrong us and other minorities. We all demand accountability and to stand equal before the law. Do not exploit in the media or in the movie industry. Do not shut the borders to the needy, when the rich are well and capable of housing the mess of displaced citizens that are caught in a poverty trap. Even where Pakistan wanted to help one of its citizens obtain justice, many of the funds were embezzled.

The narratives need to be set right. Majority of us want peace, with no exploitation. It’s time that we started working on the wrongs to set them right.

An elitist, entitled mentality, has got to go. It has to start with all of us, collectively. Do not let triangulation sway you. Do not let media manipulation and the political spin stories make you self-doubt what was said or feed hate. Let’s take a moment to reflect on words taken from Prophet Muhammad’s last Sermon:

 “All mankind is from Adam and Eve, an Arab has no superiority over a non-Arab nor a non-Arab has any superiority over an Arab; also a white has no superiority over black nor a black has any superiority over white except by piety and good action. Learn that every Muslim is a brother to every Muslim and that the Muslims constitute one brotherhood. Nothing shall be legitimate to a Muslim which belongs to a fellow Muslim unless it was given freely and willingly. Do not, therefore, do injustice to yourselves.” 

 We have to work towards that, no excuses.

R-E-S-P-E-C-T, Find out What It Means to Be ….

American in Trump’s Era with the Death of Aretha Franklin

Respect, just a little bit
And find out I'm gone (just a little bit)

It’s as though Aretha Franklin knew her tunes would play out the way her life did. She was a single mother in a time where raising boys by herself was frowned upon.  She also took to singing the blues when she had been raised in the Church and was a recipient for condemnation because of that. Even though her father supported her, the community did not.  Whatever intent was in her heart, only God knew. Money, power and status was an issue for those trying to come out of a slave cycle.

The struggle of being black and of being a strong woman in the church who has seen much harm inflicted on herself and those around her is only something that she experienced.  She lived the civil rights movement in her music and developed a connection to people that were around her and with God in her gospel tunes. That is why she will forever be known as the Queen of Soul.

Aretha did not leave behind a will and became a part of the 7 out of 10 people who do not plan their estate, knowing that she wanted to be eternal.   All of that aside, she also had one of the most talked about funerals for a long time.

The backdrop of the current American political landscape was already divided, but she sought to unite peoples on a front.  Aretha’s funeral brought everyone together. This was even mentioned by one of the guests. They all outta leave and go and vote right after the event was the sentiment at the time. Aretha would be disrespected if you did not register to vote.  Then, slowly, events started to turn towards the DISRESPECT.

President Trump did not attend either funeral of two hailed American icons, nor was he invited. His Presidency was criticized knowing that he was not invited there with reason.

Ariana Grande’s performance and dress is what some have classified as a sign of disrespect.  Her dress is what many Aunties in the church rated as not being appropriate for venue. Not the best performance, but Aretha wanted the "God is a Woman" singer to be there.   The tweets and memes started to trend with talk of the size of her ponytail in comparison to the length of the dress. She later gained the sympathies of people when a Bishop made derogatory comments about her background or name sounding like an item from a Taco Bell, menu; then he proceeded towards the questionable touching of her.  The gaze of Bill Clinton during her performance has been circulated across the internet as well. A twitter storm followed, this time using the #respectAriana.

Others questioned Obama’s lack of presence as a disrespect.  He was present at a white Senator’s funeral whose running mate was Sarah Palin, but not for the woman who sang at his inauguration. To the some in the black community, for him to say she uplifted the masses was not enough.

Another Pastor talked about the need to respect each other, but then went on to talk about how the black community disrespects each other and that change was required in order for a faction to change.  He should have stopped it there. The speech continued to a point of including commentary that was disrespectful. Another prominent Minister of the Nation of Islam was not even even given the chance to speak.  His seating placement was so far to the left that the awkward body language was noticeable. Aretha did feature on this month's cover of the “Final Call” magazine and also helped save a mosque from being harmed.  Again, the disrespect that was given to him.

One thing became apparent.  The division. The media circus ensued.  It came back to haunt and the coverage received was more negative than the one present at Senator McCain’s, where his daughter stood before the podium and talked of America’s greatness and where one of the only circulation of photos includes the ex-President Bush handing candy to Michelle Obama. The stark contrast of the white man was sitting next to a black woman, handing her candy. To some, it looks like an adult handing a child candy as bait. To others, a nice gesture.  We all know that giving respect earns respect.

Why are we seeing two different versions of America?                
               
America, I Say a Little Prayer for You

(in my Aretha voice)

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

The status of Divorcees in Islam: Being Divorced does not mount to being Defective or Unworthy Goods

The rate of divorce in Western countries is almost at the rate of fifty percent and this rate most certainly includes and affects Muslims living in the West also. Divorce is allowed in Islam and even acknowledged as a right. So why all the stigma and shaming of men and women who either choose or have no choice in going about taking such a route? More often than not, people who are mainly community elders, "assume," the role of lecturing or try on their part to, "knock in some sense," where they think a person is unable to make a proper judgment call. She was right. He was wrong. We can fix it like this. Maybe like that. Ironically, those persons do not realize that they have a different tolerance threshold than what another may. Reliance upon the belief of each soul having a burden than only it can bear; no more and no less is often ignored. People also start comparing and contrasting their married situation to yours which really makes no difference or sense as each couple has its own dynamic and circumstances which can never truly be the same.

"Divorce is sometimes considered as a mercy in Islam,"  was one of the most insightful quotes into the matter made by Ustadh Ubaydullah Evans. This is because sometimes in marriage we end up doing more harm than good. In such instances, it may be better to part. Unfortunately, many in the community do not agree to this or even understand. It is permitted in the religion to protect men and women from a marriage where either party are denied their rights. It safeguards dignity and needs. Nobody should be forced to carry a cultural burden of shame because of what they deem is a, "failure," or a person no longer being, "pure," in their eyes.

Whilst it may be true that such persons are back on the, "meat market," it does not mean that they should be subject to prey or being preyed upon. It is time that acceptance instead of marginalizing of divorcees took place and that the community at large embrace such persons. Having a, "being married," status never should affect one's standing. Nor should the children of divorcees be cast aside for being different to them; when what they require is love and acceptance.

The reality is that divorced people do care about their relationships. They evolve in their relationships and choose not to be miserably married. They move into a co - parenting scenario and may even become more productive in parenting as a result. Divorcees are not nonchalant. It is not a sign of weakness but takes a lot of strength. Finding support helps those in times of loss. That is what they truly need.

The Sliding Scale of Muslim Women and the Hierarchies within the Female Pecking Order

Wherever we choose to look, it can be said that we either are born into a hierarchy or create one for ourselves. Within every association made, there is a pecking order. It can be either by default, or, because we are taught to think that way. This is regardless of whether we think about it or not. Some may know their place, and many try to maintain status quo or attempt to alter it.

Amongst women, it’s a fierce and complicated order as it is, and, when placed within the Muslim model living in the West a greater dynamic comes into play. Not only is it who’s more attractive; but also, whose children are better and whose husbands are more accomplished. Propelled into the mix is the greater competition of - who stays at home, who is the atypical soccer mom and who has a career, coupled with, a level of religious judgment an racial element which is put amongst the very forefront of where one will sit on the, 'sliding scale.' Is she fair complexioned? Did she or will she get better married off than me? Arab or non Arab? Pakistani, Indian or Fijian? Muslim convert? How many activities is the child enrolled in? Which Sunday school do they attend? Which masjid community do they mix in?

Later, the comparison begins within extended family and sometimes preference is given to certain family members based on these qualities. For instance, the daughter in law that is a doctor is higher valued than the accountant daughter in law. The convert that a guy is considering for marriage is less likely to have to mingle with extended family than the daughter in law who speaks the same language. Expectations change, hierarchies, again, assigned.

An establishment of such order makes it very difficult for women to be at ease with themselves and with other women in general. It’s worth noting, too, that some women have given up because circumstances are beyond their control.

The bottom line is that it’s much more bewildering than, “So, what do you do?” How do we reconcile someone like Malala in the scheme of things? Would someone like her who had to unlearn everything to make a stand even be tolerated?

The other pressure comes from men viewing women and sizing them up and being non appreciative of what the market has to offer or the current choice of spouse.

Take a moment to think deeply. Such programming may have started from childhood. Where do people stand? What qualities made them more impressionable and influential? Look within in your family and community. Who dictated the terms?

Realistically speaking, hierarchies can only be present within in our own minds. Is the hierarchy based on being more spiritual, or financial success, or beauty, or talents? Why is such a criteria so necessary? Who is above and below whom? What is the payoff? How do you feel about where you stand? Do you want to keep that? At what cost?

Being bound by such a hierarchy will keep one in a competitive mode with others. The price of competition can be rather high. Learning to let go and being content is what is required by our faith. In the end, none of it will really matter. Hierarchy is unnecessary and damaging to the body, mind and spirit. You can choose to be either in control or not. Choice is yours.

Cabra-Matters: An Ex Pat's Memoirs on being Australian at Heart

Cabramatta is a suburb in south west of Sydney, located in New South Wales, Australia. It was once a town known predominantly for its agriculture and the name came into existence after a township grew from the village with a railway system being built in the 1850s. The presence of a migrant hostel alongside Cabramatta High School was decisive in shaping the community in the post-war period. It housed a large number of post-war immigrants who began to develop local businesses within the region. For such reasons, Cabramatta and the surrounding Fairfield area was characterized by a diversity of Australian-born children having migrant parents. A second tide of immigration ensued and this time migrants were from south-east Asia as a result of the Vietnam War. During the 1980s, Cabramatta was transformed into a thriving Asian community, displacing many of the previous migrant generation. Today, should one ever pay a visit, it could easily be confused with the streets of Saigon or any other "Chinatown" and is Australia's largest non-Anglo-Celtic commercial precinct.

The suburb also served as a home to one of the country's most reformative leaders: Gough Whitlam. Fairfield Council will honour the late Gough Whitlam by naming the public square at its new Dutton Lane development in Cabramatta "Gough Whitlam Place". His memorial service will also be broadcast in Freedom Plaza. The former prime minister was member for the southwest seat of Werriwa for 25 years. He was very approachable and had Australia at heart. In fact, it was his direct experience of life in the sprawling western suburbs that inspired him to address the problems of urban Australia. Once in government, he never lost his passion or empathy for working Australians. He helped transform Australia into a land of progress, opportunity, equality and fairness.

It was at about that time that as with many early migrants in the 1970s, my father  applied for migration to Australia and was accepted there. He left Pakistan was to avoid the political instability of the region; hereby securing a better future to come and because he did not have the heart to charge money from the poorest of poor persons upon seeking treatment. Upon arriving at the shores of Australia, he received employment with Fairfield Hospital located in Sydney's Western suburbs. During the year of 1974, he went back to Pakistan to visit his family and it was decided that he should seek a new bride to wed. It was during that year that both my mother and father married. My mother sought migration not long thereafter.

Both were later united in the same year and worked together in Fairfield Hospital for some time.  Later, my father grew his practice in Cabramatta. Western Sydney is  now known for generating the third largest economy in Australia behind the Sydney Central Business District and Melbourne and its highly dense multicultural population.

Consequently, we grew up with core, unique, Australian multicultural values consisting of three essential elements:

1. Those who arrive in Australia are invited to continue to celebrate their cultures and traditions, not only within a broader culture of freedom but, more importantly, with due regard;

2. Shared respect for democratic beliefs, laws and rights; and

3. Belief in its political bipartisanship.

In the interim, the suburb did begin to have an  image problem, primarily due to its reputation as a point for drug-dealing. With the refugee influx came a heroin problem, which, has now been contained. My father was also very influential in getting the attention of media and government on the issue and did speak before the Parliamentary Inquiry.

Cabramatta is also remembered for the political murder of a NSW State MP, John Newman,outside his Cabramatta home in September 1994. This was Australia's first ever political assassination and thus this assassination drew much attention and alarm.

All around, Cabramatta is what modern day Australia encompasses. It sets the stage for shaping Australia politically, and, from a policy perspective. It grew, suffered some loss, and, now, has become a place to where people want to flock in order to sustain some of the best deals on material; electronics; homeware; shoes; food and clothing. Therefore, the multicultural environment brought much innovation, ideas, skills, energy with achievement.  Lives were enriched for those reasons. Australians enjoy a higher standard of living than they would have, otherwise, due to a broad array of skills and knowledge. Part of this meant working within these values to sustain a culture within a new homeland. A recognition and celebration of different cultural heritages was made with a common, shared future.

Spicing up my life with Bollywood

Living in the often miserable and complex weather patterns of Chicago, I hereby testify, and, declare that, to the best of my knowledge, Bollywood, most certainly, continues to peddle my surge in fantasy and can prove to be escapism at its finest.

Instead of choosing to want to trick or treat and play dress up during the time of Halloween; I would much rather curl up under a blanket with some chai, my PJs and to want to watch Bollywood dance numbers, or, a full diversionary fare in that delivers romance, comedy, action, melodrama, songs and dance.

These movies do possess masala like qualities: spicy blends of genre which evoke an entertaining dish leaving you wanting more. This is, in fact, what makes Bollywood so compelling. Disney classics whilst do follow a similar formula, somehow, manage to fall short for me. Bollywood is more sentimental, melodramatic, and unironically exaggerated.

As of recent, Disney and Bollywood have fused in the latest film, "Khoobsoorut. " It is a wonder as to how many more of these will come our way.

Nonetheless, the presence of Bollywood in one's life can never be underestimated. It is able to fill in any void of the following: a life bereft of travel, color, costume, clothing, culture, luxury, love and feeling the part. It further serves as unique and powerful disseminator of Indian culture and values abroad. As such, instant gratification of some sort is received without much of a toll on one's pocket. I am sure Bollywood is a contributor in why so many arranged marriages are still working and alive today.

Interestingly enough is the surge in my desires to want to boost the masalas in my meals at this time of year as well; which also becomes more flavorful.  More complex in the making, but I want haleem, chicken karahi, nihari and, or, biryani. Delish. I say bring on the spice!

In a spin about the 'Charkha'

The word charkha which has links with Persian چرخ: charKh, wheel, which is related to the word "circle." In short, it is  hand-cranked spinning wheel used for cotton and other fiber making purposes. Within subcontinental history, Gandhi had hoped that through its implementation the independence movement would able to be established. Self - sufficiency and independence via this means is even depicted on earlier flag versions of India.

From a historical perspective, Indians were working hard to produce cotton which often was shipped to England and made into cloth. It added to insult when the British would send the cloth back to India to be sold at a price that most were unable to afford. For those reasons, Gandhi sought to evade exploitation by developing a spinning wheel that every Indian could afford within a home environment. The shackles of oppression were broken as it helped in the fight for independence. It is still used in India today. It, thereby, became a free movement that reduced competition.

For those reasons the charkha is a symbol of culture; a culture that disappeared after industrialization. Almost an obsession for many; it is a nostalgia that is carried through glorification in books, songs and pop culture that is very alive today within Pakistan. Whilst that may be the case, if one searches deeper the relevance can be applicable to everybody in their daily grind.

In Sufi poetry, it is definitely appreciation of hard work. Its significance lies in the struggle for earning good deeds in this world for the hereafter. When demonstrated often in music made by artists such as Abeda Parveen and Junoon; it often brings a level of romanticism. Whilst it mainly depicts an elderly woman who is spinning a 'charka'; she is taken to another level and is rewarded by nothing too great in this life. She strives alone, continues uneffaced but still very present and required by society. In the scheme of things, her role often gets overlooked and is yet is the very reason for the tight fabric of society being glued and held together. The monotony, simplicity, and, existential being is what connects one and can draw one to celebrate it's being.  A purpose is found in this task and she humbly submits to the role that has been apportioned to her. Within the same,there is a high level of self- reliance as nobody is by her side. She keeps looking forward without complaint and utters nothing but praise for her Lord, coupled with, a high level of optimism it seems.

For those reasons, it is truly a special wheel as it encompasses history that helped force a change in India and Pakistan. It also seeks to remind that life is a perpetual journey of birth, resurrection, and death. So, shall we spin?

#MuslimApologies: Should we say Sorry or not?

The rhetoric of not being apologetic enough for acts committed in the name of Islam is a constant theme we are hearing by media and heads of government.

One the one hand, it has to be acknowledged that Muslims should not have to apologize for the actions of a few.

 At the same time,  it is our duty to engage in spreading the message or, "dawa." If there is any ignorance in the teachings of Islam, it is because we have failed in the sending of the message or people's understanding of the same.

 A more rampant dawa technique would have ensured that this would not have had to happen in the first place. For those reasons, it has to be considered as to where do we draw the line in apologizing and in rejecting a position or stance?

The #NotInMyName campaign which has been quick to denounce radical extremism like the Islamic State and their actions; whilst others question as to why all Muslims should feel compelled to apologize every time a crime is committed by extremists in the name of Islam.

Their position being, "When other religions' leaders and members don't apologize for actions committed in the name of their faith, frustrated Muslims ask, why should ours?"

Apologies and being apologetic is also part of our faith. Sometimes it is the key to holding a healthy life. It is often considered a valuable, ethical trait. We should care enough about our religion being slandered and the representation of Islam which has been either twisted, misconstrued, and, or, not being properly represented at all; due to lack of information or ignorance and a failing on our part.

Having understood that, and washing our hands off the matter by saying that not all people that state that they are 'real' Muslims or practicing Muslims may depict Islam in its true state is not grossly irresponsible or immature either.

Muslims should grow and rise above and beyond expectations. We bear the onus of spreading the message correctly. It is also what our religion requires.

Is Hypersexualization of Women a Hidden Form of Racism?

When we hear of sexiest women in today's age it has become equated with the names Kim Kardashian, JLo and Beyoncé. We are now being told a "fuller" figure and more curvaceous figure is the new trend. Nicki Minaj took that to a whole new level in her recent song, "Anaconda." Majority of these women do not fit the beauty standards of the past that were held by the fashion and movie industry.

Admittedly, I do identify with these women more in that I possess some of these traits and so was almost glad to see away with the atypical model type: extremely tall, svelte, blonde and pale. However, in recent days it has been brought to my attention that whilst having feel beautiful, on the one hand, can have its drawbacks.

Within a historical context, the raping and using of black women solely for sexual purposes during slavery ultimately led to the sexualization of black women in all forms of media. This applied in today's world has meant that being sexy gives one feminine power. How about using intellect and someone to love you for your mind and soul? Modesty would promote such a goal and, unfortunately, objectifying women has lead to the group of persons objectified as playing a more docile role in society. It becomes one of a subservient, submissive person who is role playing to a, "Master."

The Master is empowered and younger girls are becoming more sexually aware; younger mothers and less socially successful which would include in a career.

In order to be sexualized, the person is purely objectified for entertainment purposes.

During slavery times and segregation, African Americans were devoid of any presence within the advertising industry. When they began to make their first appearances, they were shown as a number of different racist images being subservient or representing some form of entertainment for white people. As such, it is arguable that the overall master has changed to some degree but the role played is similar. This overall lends itself to women being incapable of taking care of themselves by falling pregnant earlier, unable to establish careers that can sustain one's living needs in this tough economy and more prone to incidents of domestic violence for that reason.

Interestingly enough, when it comes to the advertising domain and the sexuality of an, “Asian," is more clean and submissive in a way; while Black and Brown women’s sexuality is considered more dangerous, dirty and untamed. The, "Arab" and "Latina" woman is somewhere in between those two extremes. White women’s cultural appropriation is portrayed as the champions that dominate the uncivilized Other.

As such, portrayal of women with hypersexualized images serves no real purpose other than being more submissive and repressive than what many would think is the goal of a burka.

Sense and Sensibilities: In light of Muslim awkwardness

"Can male and female relationships ever be platonic?" Many females when asked say they can be, whilst, males more so believe it not to be the case; with men indicating that at some point in time an attraction existed, which, then, led into a relationship albeit a platonic one.

Now if we look to Islamic teachings for guidance and answers, it is clearly shown that the likelihood of platonic relationships is not the way in which the religion was to be set or practiced.

In fact, a state of strong feeling is considered to be healthy. That is, we are to be angry at an injustice. To have feelings of love in close relationships, especially between a husband and wife. When none of these feelings are present, then there is a disconnect with the heart, sensibilities, and, in what is to be practiced for the sake of Allah.

Amongst possible reasons for this includes: oppression has become so commonplace and/or the level of 'haya ' or 'shame' is virtually no longer in existence. We are constantly being fed with pictures, advertisements or interacting with people where we have become numb to feeling and almost immune to a context, within, which, we may be placed.

Constantly checking with the heart and cleaning it out of impurities that come through visual images, hearing of incorrect dialogue without action is what is leading to a demise of, "Muslim awkwardness." Whilst awkwardness is awkward and shouldn't be the case;  it also shows that one is in touch with oneself.

Muslim awkwardness can be two fold: awkwardness when there is higher levels of shame and people (mainly of the opposite gender) cannot interact due to a higher level of consciousness; or when there is no awkwardness present and on lookers then judge or want to bring shame upon them; which then becomes awkward within itself.

Thus, finding that middle ground is most advisable. Having checks and balances within community can sometimes even be healthy. Whilst high levels of arousal are not recommended either, a good level of care and concern is where we should be at. Otherwise, a demise in relationships as they were programmed to be takes place. Perhaps, Muslim awkwardness isn't so bad after all.

The Desi Denial Disorder "(DDD)" Diagnosed

The term, "desi," is a word derived from Sanskrit with the meaning, "one from our country"; a national opposed to a foreign. It is in reference to people from the subcontinent, in general, and mainly India and Pakistan.

Having said that, many of desi origins tend to hold on to certain traditions. Family pride and image amongst locals is just one. When we compare Western and Eastern values a, "keeping up with the Jones'," mentality becomes more so when applied to persons of Eastern background who live in the West. Though not quite a clash of civilizations; the reason for same is not known either. Whether it is the history of a caste system giving rise to more competition, or having a population in lesser number that makes it more susceptible to discrepancies, or a combination of both; one can only speculate.

This competition mode becomes a survival of the fittest. That then would entail the, "living in a bubble world," where no one suffers or loss cannot be sustained. Desi denial disorder sinks in at this point if none of the following is achieved: What happens when my child doesn't have good grades? What happens if a career low turning point occurs? What happens if the marriage fails? What happens of I don't get a classy vehicle or mansion? What happens when the children don't end up in college and without pursuit of professional education? What if they can't get married to a person of same class, creed and culture? What if I can't afford to marry them? What if my children don't take care of me in my elders years? In essence, it is living life to please others or to keep within a certain ideal state.

Consequently, desis are not well equipped to cope with a crisis. Instead a, "saving face," is preferred to admission that a problem exists. Excuses and non admission is what most first generation desis have practiced. Interestingly enough, one wonders if such a trend will continue amongst the following generations. Will the children pick up on old traditions or adopt the Western ways which includes an ability to embrace, face and challenge teachings or prior principles? Perhaps, even a combination of the two. Personally, I have observed that desis prefer to keep quiet and advertising one's problems is still largely frowned upon. Fixing the problem instead of embracing change is what most tend to do. When this will change is yet to be seen.

Modern day marriage within an Islamic context

"Muslims like to talk about one of two things: marriage and Jinns:" Ustadh Ubaydullah Evans.

Whilst that may be the case, and, marriage having such a high bar in that it is half of the completion of our religion; there really isn't much effective dialogue that is constructive in addressing the issue(s) that pertain to same.

Would you prefer your child to have an arranged marriage? Is love marriage even acceptable? How is it preferred that a match be made? Are cross - religion marriages even an option? Should people look local or global? What race, socio-economic, educational level(s) should the partner posses? Are you preaching the same principles that your parent(s) preached? Are they even relevant? Does it matter?

Generally speaking, within the framework of Muslim marriage there are two options: Arranged vs Love.

In an Arranged marriage scenario, if the marriage doesn't work out the person who made such a pairing is to be blamed instead of oneself.

On the other hand, in a love marriage one has only oneself to blame if all else fails and the parents will too especially of such a marriage went against the wishes of the parents.

Within Arranged marriages contexts, parents or guardians will consider the the following factors, upon which, to make a pairing:

1. Economic
2. Education
3. Family background
4. Culture

Whereas, in a love marriage typically one doesn't go out looking or in search of love, it just happens.

Nowadays, however, many amongst Muslims may screen selectively to ensure that their mate has certain factors or qualities similar to their own as with an arranged marriage dynamic. It is almost a fusion of the love/arranged marriage model.

This, in turn, presents with the question: What is halal dating? Is there such a thing? How else are we to learn further of the partner that we are choosing?

Within Islam, it needs to be understood that segregation is very common. Finding someone with whom there is compatibility thus becomes a task that almost seems impossible.

Some choose to abide by the moral codes of Islam, whilst others do not. At this stage it needs to be borne in mind that a love of God much superior and following His ultimate guidance is the sole reason and goal in Muslim belief. Even when it comes to looking at 'dating.'

For reasons thereof, physical connections outside of marriage, 'experimenting' or having a 'fling' don't exist in Islamic ethics. Self - preservation, discipline and protection, do. Remember: a person does not truly love you if they want to take you to a hell fire in the after life.

That is why someone who has good character and deen will choose to persevere with what is the preferred, but still current (and applicable) to the correct way in going about in doing so; that is, courting.

Goals of courting are not based on any physical consummation nor new encounters but are primarily centered around getting married. A nikah to gain God's blessings leads to physical and deeper emotional attachment after this long-term commitment is made.

From the first meeting to getting married mutual compatibility; attraction and spiritual understanding are general factors that are weighed up.

What Happens On A Halal Date?

Though Muslims often find it difficult to come to some sort of conclusion as to the way out religion operates; nonetheless there is some common ground that has been agreed to as to how an Islamic date should go about.

Primarily, it needs to be borne in mind that the finding of the One True God Who creates love and unites people is the main goal of the exercise and in marriage which is half of your deen.

Interactions based on dignity and respect are also part of our teachings.

Often enough, single Muslims are introduced through friends, family, networking, marriage sites, matchmaking individuals and/or social events.

Secondly, we have the boundaries of Islamic law which need to be adhered to. This would mean that meeting in public places, without being isolated and with Islamic behavior and dress codes is what has been ordained. Gatherings should be able to give the single Muslim a 'sense' of the other person. Personal compatibility requires more than one meeting and questions are then presented on both sides. Having similar goals in life would be one objective of both.

It would also be recommended that parties be aware of what being in a relationship entails. Education in relationships should be a highly desirable goal as well as a wanting to work together as a team. Knowledge of personality types and screening for different ones is also very important as this will help one decide whether or not one is able to live in such sorts of relationships or not. People do not change and one has to either be willing to change and work with and to what degree one is able also needs to be factored up from the outset. If one sees that there are certain qualities or issues present from the outset, then it is most likely that these issues do not fade but are magnified once married.

The best way to work on a marriage is before marriage, as getting married is just part of the process. In order to understand one's better half better it would highly be suggested that one engage in pre-marital training or counseling. Whether or not this should be through a masjid based community is something for us all to consider going forward. Workshop sessions on relationships and equipping persons with the right tools is underrated. Overlooking this leads to the demise of the very essence of what our community, hence, the roots of the foundation laying blocks of our future.

Days are gone where one marries to please parents. Marriage is never about pleasing a parent; but rather pleasing the Almighty first. Healthy, loving, thriving, just relationships is what would be most desirable. Muslims should be encouraged to make their own decisions and do engage in an Isthekhara process once screening is done. Love the rest unto thy Lord. Having said that, the community needs to play a greater role in how to sustain and enliven marriage. It is nothing near the portrayal of what Hollywood or Bollywood shows. In fact, reality is probably closer to what Pakistani dramas portray. Reinforcing oppression is not a solution either. Turning a blind eye to the reality of what the marriage market has become will not help. It is time for a change. A burning issue that needs to be addressed; with the coming of community as one.

Pakistan in Crisis: The Problem with Pakistan lies in its disparate treatment of its women

Marking the Independence of Pakistan today, one cannot help but wonder as to the regression of Pakistan and as to what exactly has led to its downfall.

As Pakistanis, we often fail to acknowledge the powerful presence and role that women played in the building of the country.  The only prominent figure that is made known to a higher level is Lady Fatima Jinnah. What about Begum Shahnawaz, Begum Liaqat Ali Khan and Fatima Sughra with the other large masses of women who dedicated their lives to the movement?

Can we go back in time and be reminded by the Father of the Nation that:

“Half of Pakistan is yours because you have put in no less effort to achieve it than the men.”

As of late the current climate of terror and Talibanization could possibly be linked with a brutal level of gender oppression, inhumanity and violence. Furthermore, if we look across the border towards India we will also see that the level of violence and sexualisation of women has increased despite its Westernization and advancement as a global competitor.

So the question then becomes, where is this oppression occurring and how is it starting? One needs to merely look no further than the home environments in which children and families are being raised. Pakistani dramas that have the highest ratings are the ones which are teaching women that it is OK to live in extremely hostile and abusive conditions; and that family interference is better than leading a more meaningful and purposeful life which could include working outside of the home and giving back to society. Work in Pakistan is also viewed as a burden in a society that is still deeply entrenched in a feudal based system.

“Nations cannot be built on a single foundation – both men and women had to be in unison:”   Tazeen Faridi an early member of the All Pakistan Women’s Association (APWA).

Then why all the murder, honour killing, rape, gang rape, torture, burning, acid throwing, customary practices, custodial violence domestic violence and sexual assault? The position of women needs to be elevated. Core Islamic values and principles re-established and learned. Oppression is not something which our religion teaches. In fact, we are to fight oppression which is the duty of every Muslim. Economic factors, coupled with, the lack of justice has inclined the number female victims.

In summation, when we think of Pakistan and the issues that affect it the most, we begin to think of its stance on blasphemy, terrorism and violence perpetrated by one sect upon another. When we dig deeper, it has to be realized that the issues start from the treatment of its women. Women play a vital role in any society by being an equal hand. It is these women who contribute to teachings of values and how they are to be enacted. The need for a serious overhaul is essential. It doesn’t have to start with just Malala and in schools but at the homes where children are being raised.