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Pakistan is a victim of terrorism…
Related to country: Pakistan

Translations available in: English (original) | French | Spanish | Italian | German | Portuguese | Swedish | Russian | Dutch | Arabic

Interview with Babar R. Chaudhry for The Nation Newspaper.

Dear readers - Arrahman-Arraheem Network does not need any introduction; its website, within its very first year of launch was acclaimed as the most visited website. Arrahman-Arraheem TV Channel is immensely popular within the masses.
Arrahman-Arraheem Network is one of a kind that is working globally for peace and presenting a soft image of Pakistan and also removing the misconceptions of extremism and terrorism. It is making a lot of contribution for the development of Pakistan and highlighting all the issues that are there against unity, faith & discipline
The Network aims not only to promote the true image of Islam but is also striving to revive the national spirit in each and every Pakistani; so that he can work within his domain or capacity for the betterment of Pakistan and for the removal of misconception against Islam.
Today we are very fortunate to have the founder of Arrahman-Arraheem Network Mr Babar R Chaudhry with us. We shall talk to him about his network and seek his input about the efforts Arrahman-Arraheem network especially the help they are providing to eradicate the acts of national and international terrorism which are committed in the name of Islam.

Q. 1. Please tell us about your family background and how you were initially involved in propagation of Islam?

I was born in a Sunni family in Karachi. My maternal family Qutb Shahi Awan is a well known family of Chakwal due to their religious background. For more than 100 years we have produced eminent religious scholars and Hafiz-e-Quran. In my childhood, the observance of the basic pillars of Islam like Namaz and Fasting in Ramadan were given special attention by my mother. I can recall that she would not allow me to have breakfast until she was sure that I had offered the morning (Fajr) prayers. I was in America in the 1990s when the first Gulf war started. After this war many people in America embraced Islam and during the same time I met a few Christian scholars about whom I have talked in detail in my earlier interview. This event had brought about a paradigm change in my life and I realized that every Muslim apart from basic knowledge about the 5 pillars of Islam must posses enough knowledge about Islam so that he can provide correct and authentic information to non-Muslims.

Q 2. Please tell our readers about the aims and objectives of Arrahman-Arraheem Network?

The primary aim of our network is to work for the benefit of our Deen and our country – Pakistan, we produce talk-shows and documentaries especially to strengthen Pakistan and for its progress. The aim is to motivate love for our country amongst the masses and create a sense of responsibility so that they can participate in a positive manner towards the betterment of Pakistan. Through our Network, we highlight the importance of good social values and character, human rights issues within our society and work in our capacity as an Ummati (follower) of Prophet Muhammad SAW towards achieving a prosperous Islamic society. Moreover, we also answer the queries of newly converted Muslims about Islam and provide information about the basic principles of Islam i.e. Oneness of Allah, Prayers (Salaat), Fasting (Roza), Charity (Zakat) and Pilgrimage (Haj). We also try to provide all necessary Quranic and Hadith information to newly converted Muslim to help them become better human beings. In addition we also take necessary measures within our means through our network to eliminate misconceptions about Islam. We also globally condemn extremism and terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. And we are ever ready to spread the true spirit of Islam which is peace and harmony. We also act as a bridge between various religious communities as inter-faith dialogue is also a part of our aims; so that the true spirit of Islam which peace, harmony and universal brotherhood can be propagated to humanity so that various misconceptions about Islam which are prevalent in the international atmosphere can be removed and the true message of Islam be spread out to each and every individual.

Q 3. How do you compare Arrahman Arraheem network with other media channels in our society?
One thing I would like to make clear is that Arrahman-Arraheem network is one of a kind channel due its non-commercial nature and works on a self help basis. As you already know the basic purpose of our programmes is to promote the rights of an individual, build character, inspire the national spirit and a sense of responsibility. There is a long list of our programmes and I would like to mention a few of them. We did a programme at Edhi homes on Parental rights; and as a result of this programme many families have been reunited; another one was to save the younger generation from drug abuse.
We have produced innumerable programmes on the virtues of unity amongst Muslims, the menace of sectarianism amongst the Muslim Ummah, women’s rights and the importance of their education, health and environmental pollution and traffic perils.
Some of our other salient programmes were made on the life of special children, inmates of Karachi Jail, dialogues with judges at the judicial academy and a documentary on the disaster relief operations in the aftermath of the Kashmir earthquake of October 2005. Apart from this we participate in the APNA convention, the ISNA convention, the Pakistan day parade in New York and Toronto on regular basis. We have also propagated the Islamic message of peace and harmony in the presence of international delegates in conference at the United Nations. You can get detailed information about our programmes on our channel or by visiting www.arrahman-arraheem.com.

Q 4. As a founder of Arrahman Arraheem Network, have you ever experienced obstacles and difficulties while working on such a noble cause?

It can be witnessed by studying history that all the Prophets & Messengers (PBUH) experienced difficulties and obstacles in their lifetime while performing their noble task. Similarly 1400 years ago when Khatim un Nabiyeen (SAW) came to spread the message of peace and unity and led the humanity out of darkness into the light; human beings did not even spare him. They even tortured the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) Rahmat al Alameen and made him bleed at Taif. They tried to stop him (SAW) by sowing seeds of hatred against him, garbage was thrown upon him and the people of those times tried to accuse him and his family of participating in immoral acts. But Prophet Muhammad (SAW) faced all these problems with patience, dedication and commitment. Similarly, even in the times of Sahaba Karam (RA) they also suffered many difficulties when promoting Islam and practicing acts of nobleness in the society. From all this we have learnt that since time immemorial obstructions and obstacles in various forms, including false rumours have been placed in the path of good deeds and piety; and every noble man has to pass through this test in the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (SAW). The reason may be because sometimes truthfulness comes in between the aims and objectives of certain people - because they are jealous of those who work for prosperity of the society.
As far as we are concerned, we are working for this cause as a common Ummati of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) but even then we have to face the difficult times and unnecessary, false accusations. But it is our endeavour that we should remain attached with the Sunnah of Prophet (SAW) and remain dedicated, committed and persistent in our cause.

Q 5. Have there been efforts to spread rumours and misconceptions about your work?

Yes, every society consists of good and bad people. There has been and was an effort to spread misconceptions and misunderstanding about myself and my work; at times people tried to spread false rumours about me. But all praise to Allah, I have been working selflessly with full devotion for the last 18 years which is in front of everybody like an open book. Our nation knows this and they have a very vivid picture about our work - they love us and pray for us and do not pay heed to such rumours. This is also because we make our programmes giving the utmost consideration to our Deen and our country. We constantly remain in touch with the masses and especially with prominent religious personalities and take their guidance and blessings.

Q 6. In your opinion, what is the purpose of spreading false accusations and rumours?

These acts cause a lot of harm to any nation. But very briefly I would say that misconceptions; misunderstandings and false rumours are levelled against good and pious people to make them controversial in the society and to reduce peoples’ trust on them - to stop the good work from reaching its destination.

Q 7. You work internationally where in the name of “freedom of speech” accusations have been made on Muslims and efforts have been made to defame the image of Islam. What has your network has done on this issue?

Yes, internationally whenever and wherever anything was done against the sanctity & dignity of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), we within the sphere of the law of the land - recorded our condemnation to such acts at all levels.
We produced programs on “freedom of speech” at both national and international levels. These programs included statements of not only eminent religious personalities but also foreigners who condemned this act and these programs were aired in approximately 164 countries around the world. Similarly in colleges and universities all around the world students affiliated with Arrahman-Arraheem network condemned this act in their own capacity; because no one has the right to use inappropriate or obscene language or imagery not only against our Prophet (SAW) but any other Prophets (AS) of Allah. We explained it to non-muslims and media abroad that as Muslims we believe in all the Prophets (AS) and respect them; and Non-Muslims do not have any right to degrade the sanctity of Prophet Muhammad (SAW). In this context, we participated in various activities undertaken to condemn these acts and during those programmes non-Muslims themselves said that it was an incorrect act committed in the garb of freedom of speech. Through our approach foreign newspapers put across the muslim point of view in a much better way.
Similarly we remain in the frontline to defend the Khatm e Nabuwat (SAW) in the domestic and international arena. I myself have wrote two Naat on this issue. The first one “Rahain Bhataknay Walay” invites towards repentance and deeds of righteousness. I would like to narrate few verses of the second Naat “Tu hi Khalq e Awaleen hai, Tu hi Khataman nabiyeen hai, Tu na hota tou is dunya main andhairon kay siwa kuch na tha, tairay wajood sae hui roshni, tu siraaj hai tu munir hai. You must have seen and heard this Naat on our and other media network. Likewise in every lecture there is always some point regarding the protection of Khatm e Nabuwat with the objective to drive home in the mind of both our elders and youngsters - that our Prophet Muhammad (SAW) is the final Prophet and there is no Prophet or Messenger of Allah after him (SAW). Similarly, we ask them to learn the Hadith “I am the final prophet and there is no prophet after me” which pertains to finality (Khatm e Nabuwat) of Prophet Muhammad (SAW). We solemnly make this pledge that we will defend the belief of ‘Khatm e Nabuwat’ and prestige of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) all around the world till our death, May Allah be with us.

Q 8. You have delivered very limited number of lectures, why is this so?

You have asked an important question and the reason for my delivering limited lectures is that I only discuss issues pertaining to character building, human rights, promotion of virtues in the society and nation building aspects; and I shall continue this discourse on these issues.

Q 9. It is my observation that when people come towards Islam, few of them disregard the importance of Ahadith of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), what is the reason for this?

Whenever someone rejects the Ahadith of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), he rejects reasons for revelation and in addition rejects Prophet’s SAW life and historical events. Whatever the Prophet SAW said and did, whatever he permitted and whatever he forbid and whatever he did not comment upon forms part of the Sunnah Rasool (SAW). And whosoever rejects the statements and deeds, Hadith or teachings of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) then his intentions are to sway us Muslims away from the right direction. If we come across such individuals who rejects hadith than we must refrain from such individuals and contact religious personalities and confirm the truthfulness of such individual.

Q 10. What are your views on religious personalities and their efforts in the propagation of Islam. And when you encounter any issues pertaining to Fiqahi Massahil (queries related to Fiqah) what do you do?

No Muslim can ever overlook the importance and efforts put in by our religious scholars for the cause of Islam. They have dedicated their entire lives for the Deen of our Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and work selflessly for its promotion and propagation. Quran highlights this effort and states that amongst men only learned ones fear Allah. We therefore respect the religious personalities of all sects and we hold them in high esteem. We value their effort towards Islam. As far as Fiqahi matters are concerned I refer all such queries to religious scholars because they are the experts on such matters.

Q 11. What is terrorism in your opinion and how has it affected the humanity?

Terrorism is not confined to Pakistan it is in fact an international issue due which the entire world is engulfed in uncertainty. It has also influenced the World’s economic system, people are dying for no fault of their own, children are being orphaned, and once the sole breadwinner of a family dies no one can realize the trauma, ordeal and suffering of that family except those who are undergoing such situations. Today the world has turned into a global village but owing to terrorism, barriers have been placed between mankind. Terrorism is the enemy of peace and seeks to engulf society with the misery of uncertainty and fear. Terrorist brings a state of fear into the hearts and minds of peace loving people living in peaceful countries by instilling in them the fear of loss of life and destruction of property & possessions to further their political and ideological aims. Terrorism stops the economic activity by destroying the peace within the society, because terrorists only believe in governing people through fear. They spread terror and panic to destabilize the country, to diminish people’s trust in the government and political leaders to bring political change. Whenever there is an instance of terrorism, you will notice that people are in shock, and when any human being goes in shock he becomes silent; and then he remains so on any injustice, deprivation or violation of his rights. It thus transforms that terrorism aims towards silencing individuals and diverting their attention. The first and foremost of its objectives is to gain attention thereby conveying its message though the global media. The entire community of intellectuals, scholars, religious clerics, political leaders and common man is convinced that terrorism is not acceptable in any form and manifestation irrespective of cause or reason behind it. No religion or civilization in the world validates terrorist activities. The complete manifestation of this belief is provided by Islam which terms terrorism as “Fasaad fil Ard”, mischief or waywardness in earth. This means that whosoever whether a nation, individual or a group creates mischief or trouble on earth are terrorists. Sura Al Maida of the Quran states that whosoever kills a human being…., it shall be taken as if he had killed all mankind. Thus Islam is all about giving life and not about snatching it away.

Q 12. What are the reasons for terrorism in Pakistan?
There can be quite a few reasons:

1. Some people due to their ignorance & lack of knowledge go astray and become part of terrorism.
2. Some people due to their ignorance fall pray to Personality worship and are used in the name of Islam.
3. A few people are those who deliberately distort the explanation of Deen and exploit innocent people for their ill motives.
4. Some are those who due to social injustice and failures in life fall victim because of revenge and desperation.
5. In our country the biggest reason for terrorism are the enemies of Islam and Pakistan who want to destabilize our motherland.

Q 13. What have you and your network has done on this issue?

There are three ways to stop terrorism as stipulated in the Hadith of Prophet SAW; that stop the bad deeds by hand or tongue or than at least consider it bad in your heart. It is the responsibility of the government and law enforcing agencies to stop it by hand; we utilize our media to prevent this menace. We produce documentaries to promote piety, so that it spreads and our population develops insight and works together for deeds of righteousness. We must have a clear description of friend and foe to fight terrorism. In these documentaries we have highlighted the plight, pain and state of the innocent victims of terrorism who have lost their near and dear ones in terrorist activities to indicate that terrorist have chosen the wrong way to take revenge of their grief. In this context we relate the teachings of Quran and Hadith SAW to strengthen the hearts of people and to inspire them with fear of Allah and towards forgiveness. As far as efforts to relate Islam with terrorism are concerned, we also work in different areas to thwart these activities. We participated in a conference held in the United Nations and highlighted the true spirit of Islam which is peace and harmony in front of the audience consisting of delegates representing different countries around the globe. We informed them that Islam is a religion of peace, universal brotherhood, goodness and equality. You can see all these activities on our channel and website. We look forward to such opportunities so that we can correct the misconception about Islam and Pakistan which is prevalent in the international community, because Pakistan is not a terrorist country; it is in fact a victim of terrorism.

Q 14. Would you like to give any message for our readers?

We are going though a delicate time in history; it is the need of the hour that we must think keeping our national interest, the future of our children in the foreground and then develop intervention strategies to convert various factions into one nation so that we can correct the misconstrued image of Pakistan and Islam. As stated by the Prophet SAW hadith, A Muslim’s example is like a building, if one block is weak it will affect the entire building; therefore we need to return to the basic guiding principles of Islam to improve our state.

July 9, 2009 | 11:25 AM Comments  0 comments

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Enlightened Moderation
Related to country: Pakistan


By BABAR R. CHAUDHRY

Founder ‘Arrahman-Arraheem.com'

To understand this we must first realize that whenever new words or concepts are introduced and discussed, they always evoke two reactions; one positive and the other negative. Those who want to criticize look at the negative aspects while those who see the benefits support it. The important thing to remember in such situations is; what is the intention?

If we want to understand the meaning of “Enlightened Moderation” from the perspective of Islam and Pakistan, then we have to understand the true meaning and the spirit behind these two words. The literal meaning of ‘ enlightened' is what we call in Urdu ‘ Roshan Khayali' (or positive thinking ) and ‘ moderation ' means balance.

Enlightenment

Therefore, the first question we must ask is “What is Enlightenment”. In Islam, this is not a new concept or theory . 1400 years ago, before the advent of Islam and Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), people experienced extremely repulsive and abhorrent traditions and lifestyles; women were traded like livestock and had no rights, new born girls were buried alive and slavery was commonly practiced. People who supported and carried out these actions considered themselves as doing the correct thing and on the right path. Unfortunately, they were misguided and had no one to show them the right path. They were living their lives in darkness, totally devoid of enlightenment!

In this darkness came enlightenment from Islam through the revelation of the Quran to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), which started with the words ‘ Iqra' in Surah Al'Alaq (96) which says, ‘Proclaim! (or Read!) In the name of thy Lord”. This means that enlightenment comes from reading or knowledge and which in turn removes the darkness prevailing in the minds and the hearts of all mankind.

Allah (SWT) revealed the Quran to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), which became a source of knowledge and enlightenment for the people of those times and brought them out from extremism, making them moderate. Moderation brought equality, human rights, forgiveness, love and harmony for all of mankind.

As I have mentioned repeatedly that Allah is “ Huda-lil-Aalameen ” – guidance for all times; and the Holy Quran is “ Huda-li-Naas ”- guidance for mankind and our Deen-e-Islam (Religion of Islam) will remain until Qayamah (the Day of Judgment). So if we keep taking guidance from the Quran and Hadith, and relate the Ayaat of Allah (SWT) in our lives, it will always keep us updated with modern times and tell us exactly what to do next. Remember, Allah's Laws never change; it is only the depth of the Quran which keeps increasing. As the human mind develops and progress take place, we can understand and relate the message of Allah (SWT) more clearly. The concept of Ijma and Fiqah , where people sit together to find solutions to problems that arise as a result of new developments, therefore helps to make effective decisions in this changing world.

Enlightenment also means eradication of superstition and inculcation of positive thinking. History witnessed that all the Prophets (AS) including Jesus, Moses, Abraham, and others enlightened the people of their times through the message of Allah, because Allah (SWT) possesses the attribute of Al-Noor . This is narrated beautifully in a Hadith of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) that says: “Be conscious of the sight of a Momin (Practical Believer), as he sees through the Noor of Allah.” And what is this “light”, through which a Momin sees things? It is the Light of the Quran, (the Noor) given to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) that ‘enlightens' the minds and thoughts. So the concept of ‘Enlightenment' is not something new in Islam.

Enlightened Thoughts

When we talk about enlightened thoughts, there are two possible sources by which this can be achieved. First, through worldly knowledge and the second comes from Deen (Religious Knowledge) . Worldly knowledge has its limits, which a person seeking knowledge comes to realize very soon. For example, if you are an engineer or a doctor and doing research, you reach a stage where you realize the limit of this worldly knowledge and cannot know more beyond a certain point. At this stage even the most renowned scientist is compelled to say ‘I don't know how all this is happening, some supreme being is doing all this. Some supreme power is handling every thing!' This is the point beyond which the knowledge of the Creator – Allah, begins and the door opens towards infinite learning.

Enlightened Moderation
Deen , on the other hand gives us ‘enlightenment' in the sense that it saves us from taking wrong decisions, following decadent traditions, thinking negatively, falling prey to our weaknesses and desires. We all suffer from these human failings that get ingrained in our personality as we grow up in different circumstances and experiences going through life. While acquiring worldly knowledge is indeed a desirable thing, the key to success in life lies in adding Deen (Religion) to our base of worldly knowledge and to take Deen-e-Islam along in our worldly matters .

Moderation and Extremism

This combination of both ‘Deen' and ‘Worldly knowledge' equals to ‘Moderation'. As Allah says in Surah Al-Baqarah 2 Ayat 143: “Thus have We made of you an Ummah justly balanced…. .”

These days all over the world , Islam and Muslims are being associated with ‘Extremism'. I feel that this linking of extremism with Islam is a misconception primarily due to the lack of knowledge . I will explain how Islam and Extremism do not go together. The root word of ‘Islam' comes from the Arabic word ‘Salama' , which means ‘Peace'. If you look up the meaning of ‘Peace' in the dictionary, it says; freedom from disturbance; being in the state of mental calmness, freedom from war and violence . As can be seen, the meaning of the word ‘Peace' itself describes so many things all of which contradict the notion of Extremism. So how can anyone talk about Islam and at the same time associate it with Extremism!

In short, Islam neither propagates nor promotes Extremism. To achieve Islam (peace) we have to submit ourselves totally to the Will of Allah (SWT). And if we do this and follow His teachings we can never offend anyone and hence never be associated with Extremism.

Extremism and its Causes

Extremism has many facets but most commonly, it is linked with terrorism or violence. I shall illustrate this point through an example. If a person becomes angry over a petty matter he is moving towards extremism and is no longer moderate. Similarly, a greedy and jealous person is also at an extreme. To be at the extreme of anything makes one “An Extremist”. You can make a person an extremist within minutes - just say something that annoys him or something that is not according to his liking and he becomes angry and reacts at an extreme. Conversely, Quran teaches the traits of Sabar (determination, patience and perseverance), Qanaat (to be happy and content with whatever one has), Darguzar and Ehsaan (to forgive and to forget).

By adopting these traits in his character, a person gradually becomes balanced and moderate and avoids becoming an extremist. These traits are extremely essential attributes to possess in these modern and frantic times.

Here I would also like to point out the causes of Extremism. I want to highlight an important issue, especially for the people of North America and Europe who must know why this is happening. Extremism occurs within people when their psyche is unbalanced; when there is no one to guide them; when they lose control over their emotions, intelligence and weaknesses. Whatever they think, they consider it to be right without any proof or confirmation; and they do not follow any commandments of Allah in their lives.

Another reason for Extremism is ‘lack of knowledge' . To explain this further I will give you my example. When I used to live in the United States and people asked me about the Quran and what Allah says in it, I could not answer their questions because I had no knowledge. I had no references to quote from the Quran and Ahadith, yet I used to think that I am right and others are wrong. When people asked me , ‘Do you believe in the Bible?' My reply was an emphatic ‘No!'. The next question then used to be ‘Have you ever read the Bible?' My answer again was ‘No'. Then I was asked ‘Have you ever read the Geeta?' Again, my reply was in the negative. I was finally asked, ‘You have not read the Bible nor the Geeta nor the Quran with understanding, then how come you are so sure that you are right and others are wrong?' This was the million-dollar question, which always stumped me , as I never had its answer.

So , I was one of those people who used to think that I was right without having any knowledge or references of the Quran and Ahadith! To me this is one type of extremism, where one thinks he or she is right and the others are wrong without any proof or evidence! Without making any comparison or having an intellectual discussion! Without knowing that what my Deen–e-Islam offers to the world is better than what others have! I considered myself as a most educated and intellectual person but I had no idea on how to market my Deen !

Enlightened Moderation
There is no doubt that the Quran is the Book of Allah and that our Deen-e-Islam is complete and that the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) has left for us a Uswa-e-Hassana (a beautiful pattern of conduct). However, there is major weakness on our part, which is lack of knowledge and our inability to answer even the most basic and logical questions about our Deen with reference from the Quran and Ahadith .

Another cause for extremism is injustice . This happens when people feel threatened; they lose their property, their family and loved ones, their lives, their land etc. These situations act as a catalyst and the person feels justified to react in an extremist way and take revenge and behave in whatever manner he likes, which in turn earns him the label of extremist. So here we are talking about one of the biggest issues in the world which need to be addressed and brought to justice in order to eliminate extremism. ‘

Use of Force in Deen-e-Islam

Another visible symptom of people suffering from extremism is that they force their concepts and beliefs on others because they consider themselves to be right and others wrong. This is another kind of extremism because there is no concept of force in Islam. Our Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) preached and practiced the Quran and the commandments of Allah. He inspired people through his character and lead by example. He never forced anyone, even when people threw stones at him, put obstacles in his path and used bad words for him. Despite all this, he never gave up his mission. Instead, he displayed forgiveness, care, and love and shared the peace , which he got through the revelations. This eradicated extremism prevailing at that time and people began to listen and follow him.

We must understand that Islam is the religion of the Creator, who is all-powerful and can do anything Himself or can force others to do what He likes. Yet He chooses not to use force but wants submission voluntarily after analysis and reason. Islam therefore never talks about using force. Allah says in Surah Al-Baqara, Ayat 256: “ La Iqrah fid-Deen ” meaning that there is no compulsion in Deen-e-Islam. Allah has given us a choice and He has commanded us not to force on anyone to make him follow Islam.

Another manifestation of Extremism is when one acquires only religious knowledge and ignores worldly education. This unfortunately makes such people view and understand things in only a certain way and they remain out of touch with the rest of the people living in the world.

On the other side there are those people who possess only worldly knowledge and may be successful professionals such as doctors, engineers or businessmen. They have no knowledge or interest about Deen . Their practice of Deen is restricted to Friday prayers and fasting in Ramadan. As soon as the fast and prayers are over their religion is over. These people have no concept or essence of their Deen . This is another extreme!

As much as there is a need for religious people to acquire worldly knowledge to become moderate, there is also the need of the hour that educated people acquire religious knowledge so that they too become moderate.

What needs to be done...

So the question now is what should be done and how can we improve the situation? Living today in the 21 st century I strongly feel that the need of the hour is for the educated masses to acquire the basic knowledge of the Quran and Ahadith so that they are equipped to answers questions about the basic teachings of Islam and are able to convey the true message and essence of Islam to the non-Muslims. In this way they can help in eradicating the misconceptions about Islam and dispel the notion that Muslims are extremists.

I do not know much about politics but I know that the Quran and teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) have always taught moderation. The Quran gives us lessons of Sabar, Qanaat, Darguzar, Ehsaan . However, when it comes to safeguarding the sovereignty of one's country and its defense against aggression, the Quran talks about sacrifice.

Enlightenment in the Quran is for all times. We keep on learning more from the Quran and are enlightened as time passes. The Quran urges us to use our eyes, ears, hearts and minds to research and analyze. By following its teachings, it continuously moves us forward towards progress. Allah keeps giving us greater enlightenment through the knowledge of the Quran, which we should accumulate and apply in our lives until our last breath. Only in this way can we remain balanced and moderate individuals.

November 26, 2005 | 5:17 PM Comments  0 comments

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The Focal Point Of Education
Related to country: Pakistan


By BABAR R. CHAUDHRY

Founder ‘Arrahman-Arraheem.com'

The Focal Point Of Education Is To Build the character in such a way so as to groom the personality to portray the attribute of a decent gentlemen that is a valuable asset for the society as he ordains the qualities like honoring his commitments, being straight-forward and focused; Refraining from intoxications, gambling, involving in fraudulent and any sort of criminal acts. He is always in control of his emotions and intelligence and is ready to forgive and forget. He is always ready to be accounted for in such a way that he is willing to accept his weaknesses and mistakes at any point in time be it even against himself or his dear ones. He always respects his parents and elders, spouse, and gives them their due rights that they truly deserve. He is always down to earth, humble and possess all the traits that a true gentleman is worthy of. Thus this makes him a priceless asset for any society

Being a balanced personality a Muslims submits to the commands of Almighty Allah and follows the path that pleases his Lord. Firstly a Muslim is always tolerant and respects all religions and their followers; and he gives rights to people around him (his parents, his family, his colleagues, friends etc) and Respects The Law Of The Land Where He Resides, as he is a peace loving citizens besides being a true believer. Whoever is following these golden principles laid out by Allah Almighty in the Holy Quran can never be attributed as a fanatic, fundamentalist, or an extremist:

October 18, 2005 | 4:33 AM Comments  0 comments

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About Al-Hadith
Related to country: Pakistan


Explanation of the Quran and Imaan of the Believer!

The word Hadith comes from Arabic language MEANING the record of the statements and events of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

The Hadith is also acknowledged as the words of wisdom explaining the Holy Quran. The Hadith is the second pillar after the Quran upon which every Muslim rests his faith. Hadith consists of Mat'n and Isnad. Mat'n means the text of the Hadith, while Isnad means the chain of transmitters (Ravi's - / narrators) to that Hadith.

Since Islam has offered humanity the most comprehensive value system for all aspects of life, the explanation of this system is of the greatest importance. Islam presents its laws and principles as a mixture of spiritual and intellectual guidelines. Any neutral person who studies Islam rationally is amazed by the harmony of its commandments with human nature. Now our duty and mission is to present the true spirit of Islam, as it was revealed by Allah to His Prophet (PBUH). The true and comprehensive understanding of Islam would not be possible without careful recognition of the pattern set by the Holy Prophet (PBUH). True spirit of the Holy Qur`an cannot be ingested if indifference or negligence is shown towards the pattern set by the Holy Prophet (PBUH) whose words and acts are a role model for the Muslim Ummah.

The sanctity of Hadith is highlighted by Hazrat Annas Bin Maalik (R.A), one of the famous transmitters (Ravi's - / narrators) of Hadith. According to him: "It warns me to narrate or attribute any statement with Allah's Prophet (PBUH) that he did not say; as Allah's Prophet (PBUH) said that whoever attributes with me any false statement should find his place in Hell."

Following are some Hadith of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) that are vital in character Building of Muslims and that relates to our everyday lives...

October 18, 2005 | 4:00 AM Comments  0 comments

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The Quran Recommends
Related to country: Pakistan


Ibn-e-Habaan Narrator:- Hazrat Jabir (RA)

The Messenger of Allah (P.B.U.H) said: The Quran is that recommender whose recommendation will be accepted and is such a disputer whose dispute will be accepted . whoever keeps it (Quran) in front of him , meaning practically does what it teaches ,the Quran will take him to Jannah. And he who keeps it behind his back , meaning does not practically do what it teaches, the Quran will take him to hell.

Note: “A disputer whose dispute will be accepted” means for those who are reading it and practically doing what it teaches, the Quran will dispute for them in the court of Allah for increasing their ranks. And for those who are careless, it demands why they are not paying it, its due right.

October 18, 2005 | 4:00 AM Comments  0 comments

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