Articles

Islamic finance is no more than a representation of the Muslim condition, in its positives and negatives. Its most significant challenge is a spiritual and ethical one. Islamic spirituality, in its norms as well as its practices, establishes a methodological framework and impetus to establish businesses and markets that support sustainability and social and environmental well-being.

A central, yet oft-neglected spiritual principle is that even in one’s mistakes, there is a path to divine compassion and providence. That late fajr prayer in a state of humility could be better than a lifetime of good deeds.

In the process of extolling the virtues of mothers, we sometimes neglect to give credence to an equally important member of the parenting duo: Fathers.

Ramadan often elicits childhood memories of our parents going to extra lengths to make it special, so as we honor our mothers and fathers, perhaps it is also time that we as parents also give thanks to our children for the special gift they gave us. So to all our children, thanks for the sleepless nights.

In this season of transitions and life moments, here is some important advice for graduates before entering the next phases of their lives.

The purpose of fasting is to grow in at-Taqwa (regardfulness), and is a reality well beyond abstaining from carnal appetites. Much of the what brings more benefit from fasting is connected to restraining our tongues, ears and eyes.

Sūrah al-Mā’idah comprises of some aḥkām (practical rules and regulations) of our daily human lives — which should be, for our own happiness, in accordance with what Allah subḥānahu wa ta’āla instructs us, because He knows us better than we know ourselves.

As we enter this beautiful month of Ramadan, it is important to take the time to reflect on our relationship with Allah and how to strengthen our reliance on Him when facing trials. Here are two tools we must keep in our hearts every day and be ready to pull out in case of a spiritual emergency.

As we begin Ramadan, we ask Allah to give us the desire, and the energy with that desire, to behave and to do that which is most beloved to Him – during this month, after this month, and forever insha Allah ta'ala.

My wife’s eyes tear with talk of sighting the moon. My young daughters can’t wait for the thrill of it. My elder daughters feign a je-ne-sais-pas teenage indifference but the twinkle in their eyes tells another tale. I can’t believe how such a thin slice in space binds hearts together in such longing. These days, we can’t imagine a Ramadan without heading out to sight the moon.

Many explanations have been offered for the word ṣalāwāt, such as to exalt, to praise, to bestow mercy on, to bless, to forgive. Through an investigation of several verses of the Qurʾān, and drawing upon the ḥadīth and the insight of several great imams culled from an array of rare and precious sources, a clearer explanation is offered linking the word ṣalawāt to light.

Turning back the tide of leftist influences does not mean not working with leftists at all. Working with them without violating normative creed, Islamic manners and modesty (al-hayaa) should be done per the Prophetic example, however, and not upon their terms.

The Prophet (prayers and peace be upon him & his family) in essence told his companions that for a social justice issue that is congruent with Islam, it is noble to work with others including polytheists. Working together on a cause, however, never meant to the companions that those who could be partnered with must have their beliefs, lifestyles and language affirmed in the process.