The noble Messenger (saws) was sent not only to inform but also to transform humanity by bringing it out of darkness and into light. Muslims ought to pay attention to this aspect of the Sirah in this month of Rabi al Awwal.
Masjid al Aqsa, the first qibla of Muslims, remains under Zionist occupation. Zionist squatters are becoming more aggressive and belligerently encroaching on the noble Sanctuary. It is incumbent on Muslims to highlight this and take urgent steps to redress this. A good starting point is the Quds Day rallies organized worldwide on the last Friday of Ramadan.
Colonialism has had a profoundly negative impact on Muslim societies. Physical occupation was but a minor manifestation of this phenomenon. More serious was the mental subjugation that continues long after direct colonialism has ended. We point out some steps on the way to breaking out of this mental slavery.
As Muslims worldwide commemorate the late Imam’s 27th anniversary, we reflect on some of his greatest achievements, among them his ijtihad on Islamic government.
Riba (usury) has taken hold of global finance. Its purpose is to enrich the rich and impoverish the poor. This grand larceny, given legal cover, needs to be understood if humanity is to break free from modern-day slavery.
Ramadan must mean more than going hungry or thirsty for 15-17 hours a day. Muslims must strive to build taqwa, the real purpose of Ramadan. Understanding the true meaning of taqwa is the first step.
Dr. Kalim Siddiqui, the great Islamic scholar, visionary and, activist, joined heavenly company on April 18, 1996. This is an abridged version of the welcoming address delivered by ICIT Director Zafar Bangash at the Memorial Conference held for the late scholar in Toronto on April 23.
Colleagues, friends and admirers of the late Dr Kalim Siddiqui gathered in Toronto to pay tribute to this great son of Islam and a leading intellectual of the last century.
Dr Kalim’s understanding of history went beyond the mere recording of events. He incorporated the understanding of broad trends and movements of social and political change, and the factors that influenced them to derive lessons for the future.
Muslim scholars have written extensively on the political and social theories of Islam but there isn’t enough material on the principles of economics. The few attempts at Shariah-compliant activities are mere window dressing and do not meet the requirements of Islamic law.
One of the most remarkable transformations in the life of Malcolm X occurred during Hajj. Some of these experiences are narrated here that were published posthumously.
Malcolm X—real name El Haj Malik Shabazz—arguably the most outstanding Islamic leader in America will not be remembered as Martin Luther King Jr was. The difference is that Malcolm was totally uncompromising with the oppressors. Some memorable quotes of Malcolm X A self-taught man, Malcolm X’s character and qualities can be discerned from his statements.
Surviving for 37 years, Islamic Iran has defied all predictions and has made great strides in all fields of human endeavor. This is a remarkable achievement.
While the sanctions have been officially lifted, imperialists and Zionists have not given up on mischief-making. Sabotage of the Islamic Republic will continue in other forms.
Later this month, the Ummah will gather at the Haram to perform the Hajj. ZAFAR BANGASH, Director of the Institute of Contemporary Islamic Thought, discusses the greatest of journeys a Muslim can undertake.
The clowns in Saudi Arabia never cease to produce rabbits out of a hat. Their latest venture (or adventure) is the 34-nation anti-terror alliance that was announced without even consulting some of its supposed members.
It is imperative for Islamic movement activists to study carefully how the imperialists and Zionists subverted their genuine aspirations for change. The old guard are back in power even after tens of thousands of people protested for months.
What socio-political issues are likely to dominate the year 2016? ICIT director provides some pointers and food for thought.
The bitter events brought about by blind terrorism in France have once again moved me to speak to you young people. For me, it is unfortunate that such incidents would have to create the framework for a conversation.
The Qur’an is not a biography of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), but Allah (swt) describes His beloved Messenger (pbuh) in the most beautiful terms in the noble Book. He is the “best of exemplars” (33:21), with “the most lofty character” (68:04), and a “mercy to all the worlds” (21:107). He is the one who has “brought glad tidings inviting people to Allah” (33:45) “to bring them out of darkness and into light” (65:11).
