Visiting the House of Allah

A Reflection on Hajj 1431 by Glenn Guzzo


Having returned from the magnificent honour of visiting the house of Allah s.w.t, we immediately long for a re-union. We ask that Allah s.w.t is pleased with our good deeds as we strive forward to act on changes in our life.

It is this period of reflection, that provides a permanent uplift in our life, one that we will be vaccinated from all elements of evil, inshaAllah in the future. This covenant to Allah s.w.t, of performing good deeds, and action plan to change inside, is a key result of the heart-felt emotions to the standing on the plain of Arafat and the heart-felt repentance to Allah s.w.t. Without sounding like Barack Obama, “I am committed to change!”

Reflecting on the Hajj trip, I feel that I have walked in the footsteps of all the Prophets, brothers and sisters before us, and as they key ritual in our religion that was perfected by Rasoolillah s.a.w. Without a huge grounding in Islamic history growing up as an Agnostic, my love grew exponentially for our beloved Messenger s.a.w. Many thanks to the great scholars and our tour guides of Madinah for providing this to me. The opportunity to pass on direct salaams to our Prophet s.a.w, and this overriding feeling that he is praying for us in our grave. This seed of love for the Prophet s.a.w, has inspired me to continue to grow in understanding and love of Habib Allah.

Hajj is the greatest opportunity for the re-unification of our Ummah, and this is evident everywhere you go whilst performing Hajj. Whether it be a smile from the brother that is squeezed up against whilst performing Tawaaf or Salat, or the offering of assistance to someone in need. It is though all the Hujjaj have opened their heart, removed the business-like attitudes of everyday life, and are purely satisfied with performing as many good deeds as possible in the house of Allah s.w.t. This in itself is in my opinion, if I were looking in as an outsider, the most amazing attribute of the Hajj. If only we could get all the Muslim leaders in the same tent in Mina to discuss unity!

Hajj 1431

10 days after returning from Hajj and the feeling of longing to be back there just gets stronger. As one who is quite well travelled, never have I missed a place as much as I do Makkah and Madinah. When I finally fall asleep I drift back to life in the tent at Mina or sleeping out in the open at Muzdalifah, and spending my days in the mosque with my brothers and sisters from all over the world.

The amazing part of Hajj is really the meeting of people from all over the world, verbally most of us can’t communicate beyond Assalamualaikum (May peace be upon you), despite that we look upon each other with love and remind each other that La’ilahaillallah Muhamaddan Rasullulah bonds us, we communicate with language from the heart, within minutes we hug each other like long lost friends and clasp each other as we walk away not wanting the other to leave. This was my experience almost everyday at the Masjid Munawara in Madinah.

My teacher gave us very good advice before we left, he told us to be of service to everyone on our journey, he said at Hajj everyone is poor. This is truly the best advice & one I saw practised everywhere. Every time a person tripped or fell, people rushed to help. If someone looked lost at the side of the road, numerous people would stop to help. If someone looked thirsty, people would stop and share their water. Food was shared around, people rushed to share their prayers mats with other and the list goes on. It was amazing to see humanity at its best. No one was to busy to stop and help a fellow brother or sister.

We were lucky enough to be given to opportunity to be of service to our fellow Hujjaj, one such experience led us to pushing an older lady in a wheel chair in search of her hotel. Different directions being given by various people led us on a bit of a wild goose chase. It was quite an adventure with a happy ending as the look of complete relief that overcame the lady as we finally located her hotel. Another time I ended up buying a whole Kilo of fresh dates, when I only needed a few, nevertheless, the reason for my purchase became evident as I walked though the Haram grounds and noticed many hungry people eyeing my bag of dates. As the dates got passed around, I realised that I was meant to buy those dates and share it around. Than there was a time when we were stuck in the crowd in the Haram when the Azaan went off, our recently filled water bottle came in really handy to cool and calm some sisters who felt a little dizzy and faint from the sudden rush of the crowd. There are so many stories to share, mine and from others, if only I had enough time to type it all out.

The last thing I would like to share are the highlights of my journey all of which took me to emotional highs beyond that which words could explain.

1. In Madinah, the most amazing thing is the feeling of closeness and connection to Rasullullah saw. Sending salutation upon Rasulullah saw standing only metres away from his abode. The entire city is illuminated with love for our beloved Prophet, May Allah’s peace and blessing be upon him. Leaving Madinah is difficult and indeed I pray to return someday soon.

2. The first sight of the Kaabah, especially looking up at the house of Allah from the courtyard is a moment to remember forever, it was that moment that it finally sank in, I was actually there, Allah swt has invited me and all of us there and allowed me to visit his house.

3. The heaviness of the real meaning behind dawning the Ihram for Hajj (completely different to Umrah only a week earlier). The first Labbayk uttered and the meaning behind what is being offered to Allah swt.

4. The final moments at Arafah watching the sun setting standing before Allah swt… words cannot explain what that feels like.

5. Travelling by foot from Muzdalifah onwards and performing all my Hajj rites on foot with close companions. There is something immensely spiritual about walking and striving, walking with millions of others, all with the same purpose and desire to seek Allah swt.

6. The feeling and sense of renewal, relief & revival at the completion of every Hajj right, especially to share these moments with my husband and other close companions.

7. The beautiful, much needed warm shower and clean hair on release of Ihram.

8. Staying in Mina, no I am not crazy, Mina is a special place, it has to be, I still dream about being there. Look beyond the toilet queues and the experience is transformed.

9. Completing the final Jamarat on the last day with my husband and trustee Hajj companions, a sense of wonder that I have actually made it… Is still can’t believe it!

10. Finishing my farewell tawaf on the roof, along the railing. Staring at the Kaabah, with a heavy heart knowing I have to leave, trying to capture my last few moments in this sacred place. My last attempts to photograph what I see before my eyes… unfortunately no camera can capture the beauty of what it really is. May Allah return me to his house someday soon.

Dhikr - Rememberance

Remember Me, and I shall remember you

-- The Magnificent Qur’an (2:152)

The dimension of time allows the mind to comprehend the mortal nature of the human condition. The mind consequently, ponders on questions of both physical and metaphysical natures. Nights and days, similarly to time, are Allah’s creations that are indicative of a metaphysical existence. The Quran states “Verily! In the creation of the heavens and the earth, and in the alternation of night and day, there are indeed signs for men of understanding.” (Q 3:190) By the parables of the Revelation, the human mind conceives this wisdom of understanding as a mercy from Allah. Allah has created the reality for all that exists. Clearly those who have the wisdom of conceptualising the existential reality are in worship of Him. They are those who have a sound understanding of one’s innate disposition (fitra). It is known to be the primordial nature of one’s existence. The success of the human condition lies in returning one’s ‘spiritual heart’ to this inherent disposition. In classical Islamic tradition, as in other traditions, this spiritual heart is the central faculty of the human being and resides within the physical heart[1]. The path of returning to fitra allows the heart to find contentment and attain consciousness (taqwa). The finest method commended to realise this path of returning is the sincere and consistent remembrance of Allah (dhikr) and the worship of Him. The Quran states "…Verily, it is in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find tranquillity.” (Q13:28)

The sincerity and consistency of dhikr ensures the regularity of the purification process for the heart. A purified heart suffers neither from the sicknesses of the lower desires nor from the sickness of the desires of the visible world. The Messenger of Allah (Sallallahu Alayhe Wasallam), said ‘In the body there lies a small piece of flesh, when it is good the rest of the body is good also, and when it is corrupt – the rest of the body becomes corrupt also: it is the heart.’ It is understood from this beautiful Arabic prose or hadith that the remembrance of Allah purifies both the heart and the body in its entirety. Allah has established His remembrance as the goal of worship, while prayer as one of the mediums to accomplish this. This understanding is supported by the verse "So serve Me and establish prayer for My remembrance." (Q 20:14)

Concerning the verse “Surely prayer keeps (one) away from indecency and evil, and certainly the remembrance of Allah is the greatest, and Allah knows what you do.” (Q29:45), exegetes portray a wide variety of meanings. Among Ibn Kathir, Ar Razi and others, it is understood that remembering Allah is superior to any other act of worship or devotion. Secondly, Allah’s remembrance of the individuals in prayer supersedes the individuals’ capability of reciprocating. And thirdly, remembering Allah safeguards humanity from committing sins or misdeeds. The Hadith Qudsi, "I am with My servant as long as he remembers Me” highlights the power of dhikr and its bond with the Divine. It allows the human being to be in a state of sanctity and tranquillity. The Quran directs humanity to the continual remembrance of Him, "…And remember Allah much, that you may be successful." [Q 62:10] Thereby it paves the path of success for the human being through the act of remembrance. The Quran says “...Their skins and their hearts soften to the remembrance of Allah.” (Q 39:23)

Moreover, the Quran warns of the severity of neglecting this action. Neglecting to remember Allah aggravates the blindness of the heart.

" ...Woe unto those whose hearts are hardened against the remembrance of Allah. Such are in plain error." [Q39:22]

"And be not you as those who forgot Allah and thus He caused them to forget their own souls. Such are the losers." [Q59:19]

The elevated status of dhikr is focused upon in a prose of the Messenger of Allah (Sallallahu Alayhe Wasallam), as guidance for the spiritual heart to gain consciousness. Once the Messenger of Allah (Sallallahu Alayhe Wasallam) was asked who were the most exalted among the servants of Allah on the Last Day, he replied, "Those who remember Allah, be they men or women." In another occasion, the Messenger of Allah (Sallallahu Alayhe Wasallam) compared the neglecting heart with the heart which remembers Him by contrasting the examples of the living and the dead. Lifeless is the heart, which neglects to remember Allah and departs from the path of guidance. The healthy heart finds beauty, compassion, and love in the remembrance of Allah. Allah states in this authentic Hadith Qudsi:

"I am near to the thought of My servant as he thinks about Me, and I am with him as he remembers Me. And if he remembers Me in his heart, I also remember him in My Heart, and if he remembers Me in assembly I remember him in assembly, better than his (remembrance), and if he draws near Me by the span of a palm, I draw near him by the cubit, and if he draws near Me by the cubit I draw near him by the space (covered by) two hands. And if he walks towards Me, I rush towards him."

~~~~~

The traditional idea of dhikr is not only limited to the repetitive utterance of words or names glorifying Allah. Take for example, Imam Hassan Al Banna[2] who derived dhikr in such forms as repentance [isteghfar], contemplation [tafakkur], pursuing knowledge, seeking lawful provisions with the correct intention, and generally, every lawful act during which the presence of Allah is felt. The broader concept of dhikr includes the recitation of the Magnificent Quran, obligatory prayers, non-obligatory prayers and devoted contemplation on the signs of Allah; such signs as the constellations of the stars, natural wonders, the human body and other forms of Allah’s creations.

The recitation of the Quran is regarded as the best form of dhikr. Imam al-Mawlud in his poetry Matharat al Qulub, advises to “remember Allah much, and know that the Quran is the best of it.” Imam Abdullah al-Haddad of Tarim, regarded as the Renewer of the 12th Islamic century, states that the best act of remembrance is that which involves both the tongue and the heart as stated in the verse "…Men and women who remember Allah much with their hearts and tongues. Allah has prepared for them forgiveness and a great reward." [Q33:35]. The senses act as a path to the spiritual heart. Thus Sheikh Hamza Yusuf advises to recite from the Quran itself if possible, rather than from memorization since it involves one’s eyes, hands and ears. He further states in his book ‘Purification of the Heart’: “When one recites the Quran while contemplating deeply on the meaning of the words, doors of insight open while the veils of the heart are lifted, thus one’s iman grows stronger. The only time when the Quran is not the preferred dhikr is when other obligations are immediately pressing.”[3]

While there are various forms of dhikr, the most commonly understood definition is the devotional act which involves the repetitive utterance of Allah’s Attributes and words glorifying and praising Him, as well as isteghfar – the act of asking for forgiveness. It is a form of dhikr which has no barriers regarding the time of the day or the personal state of cleanliness. The Quran directs by stating “Remember Allah – standing, sitting, and lying down on your sides” (Q4:103). While it is highly encouraged that one’s heart and tongue should be continuous in form of this devotion, there is a general etiquette of remembrance that is preferred. This etiquette is commonly referred to as Adab. It is the ethical behaviour to be followed that creates the correct context in developing the humanness on the path of returning back to fitra. The Messenger of Allah (Sallallahu Alayhe Wasallam) said: "None of you will have authentic faith until your hearts are made right, nor will your hearts be made right until your tongues be made right, nor will your tongues be made right until your actions be made right." Adab is what guides this action, ensuring it is on the right path.

Imam Hassan al-Banna states in his Mutharat that for dhikr to bear fruit, the etiquettes which should be observed are:

a) Humility, sobriety and reflecting over the meanings of the dhikr and dua.

b) Lowering one's voice so that others are not disturbed, however one must be completely awake. The Quran states: "And remember your Lord by your tongue and within yourself, humbly and with fear without loudness in words in the mornings, and in the afternoons and be not of those who are neglectful." (7:205)

c) Abiding by the sequence of the group if the dhikr is performed collectively. One should not be too fast or too slow in observing the sequence; but rather keep up with the pace of the group.

d) Cleanliness and respectability of clothes and the place of dhikr is important. By observing these guidelines, one will find happiness in his heart, light in his soul and blessings from Allah.

Imam al-Haddad states, “The one who sits in a secluded place in a state of purity, facing the Qibla, keeping his limbs still and his head down, and then remembers Allah with an attentive heart and complete courtesy, will see in his heart a manifest influence of the remembrance”. He further states that out of remembering or reciting aloud or silently, what is most useful is that which is better for the invoker’s heart.

Consistency, even if it is in small acts of worship is preferred. Aisha (radiAllahu anha) was asked regarding the most beloved deed of the Messenger of Allah (Sallallahu Alayhe Wasallam), she replied “the actions that are consistent and regular.” Thus dhikr should be done consistently even if over a short period of time. A small routine of dhikr, for example, may be included at the conclusion of Fajr and Maghrib prayers. The Quran states, "O you who believe, remember Allah with much remembrance and glorify Him morning and evening." (33:41-2)

Contemplation (tafakkur) is another form of dhikr that addresses the thinking mind. It focuses upon the meditation of Allah’s Attributes and His creations in the universe and beyond. Sheikh Yusuf al-Qaradawi defines contemplation as a ‘free form of worship, which, short of contemplation of the Divine Being Himself, is not hindered by any limitation of space or time, or any obstacles, seen or unseen.’ Relating it to remembrance, Sheikh Abdessalam Yassine, of Jamā’at al-‘Adl wal Ihsān (the Justice and Spirituality Movement) defines contemplation (tafakkur) as a heart centred movement that meditates upon the universe in order to understand the existence of Allah, while remembrance is the lifeblood of the spiritual hearts. Contemplation in conjunction with remembrance finds the perfection in the moment that leads to a process of solutions and change by calling on Allah in the time of need. The Quran states "(Men of understanding are) those who remember Allah standing and sitting and reclining and they ponder in the creation of the skies and the earth." (3:191)

Sincere remembrance of Allah is therefore paramount to the success of humanity. It is commanded by Allah and cherished by the Messenger (Sallallahu Alayhe Wasallam). It elevates the rank of oneself in stature and allows each individual to control the desires of the lower self. It purifies the heart and lifts the veils of darkness. It is the path to returning back to one’s innate disposition and the path of success for the human condition.

~~~~

This article was inspired by a lecture given by Habib Umar bin Hafith in Sydney during his recent trip to Australia. He concluded his lecture on dhikr by stating an authentic hadith where it is said the angels descend upon a group who perform dhikr, and Allah states to the angels "I am making you witness that I have forgiven them." In response by the Grace of Allah, one of the angels replies, "O my Lord, someone was there who did not belong to that group, but came for some other need." (That person came for some other purpose than dhikr). To this, Allah answers: "Those (people of dhikr) are such a group that anyone who sits with them - no matter for what reason - will also have his sins forgiven." Habib Umar bin Hafith adds that if these are the people who are forgiven, then how would it be for those who sat by the Messenger of Allah (Sallallahu Alayhe Wasallam), and kept their tongue moist in remembrance of Allah? How would it be for those who were in constant remembrance of Allah in the presence of Allah’s best creation, the Light of this world, the Mercy of Humankind? Scholars advise that the believers, whom have not sat with the Messenger (Sallallahu Alayhe Wasallam) physically, can sit with him in his tradition and followings – therefore following the Sunnah and the Seerah; sit with him through the company of the scholars of a nation and sit with him in his salutations.

InshAllah next one, I will reflect upon the first Xpresso event in Melbourne - Prince among slaves.

May Allah keep all of our hearts pure and tongues moist of His remembrance. May He forgive us all and keep our hearts healthy and purified from any sicknesses. Ameen.

---

[1] Purification of the heart, Shaykh Hamza Yusuf, p4

[2] Contrary to popular contemporary belief, Hassan Al-Banna was a member of the Hasafiyah Sufi order and later became the secretary of the Hasafiyah Society for Charity.

[3] Purification of the heart, Sheikh Hamza Yusuf, p163

Morning Invocations - Sydney

When: Sunday 28th November, 2010.
Time: Arrive by 5:00am.
Depart after breakfast approximately 8am.
Where: Robertson Park- The Gap, Watsons Bay, Sydney.
Cost: FREE. Everyone is welcome!
Enquiries: info@alghazzali.org


Al-Ghazzali Center cordially invites you to Invocations and Blessings. A Morning of Remembrance of Allah, after Fajr with the beauty of sunrise to break the dawn followed by a brisk walk by the waters and free light breakfast. Everyone is encouraged to bring food and hot drinks, as well as ground spreads with them to share.

A convoy will be departing from al-Ghazzali Center at 4:20 am. Please send an email to info@alghazzali.org in order to confirm your interest in joining this convoy.

To Register go to: http://www.alghazzali.org/register/invocations_sydney_nov_2010
Join our event on FB! : http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=107467562657095

Looking forward to seeing you there! (=

Fiqh of Zakaat

Assalamu alaykum

A couple of weeks ago, I finished a short course in Fiqh of Zakaat, which is a part of Foundation Diploma in Islamic Sciences.
I found it to be the most informative as it didn't just go through the rules of zakaat, but also explained the importance of it and the impact that it has had and continues to have, on the world because many of us are not paying it or not paying it properly.

This is anther course that has yet again blown me away (even though mind you I've done it before) as it re affirmed my belief in the perfection and utmost beauty of Islam,
<3 <3 <3 Alhamdulillah!!!

I highly recommend the other courses that are on offer: Fiqh Trade and Fiqh of Finance - both which are highly important in our everyday lives.

Was salaam
Murisa

The Blessed Tree - Melbourne Australasian Launch of the Documentary Film - Followed by commentary and discussions with Imam Afroz

When: Sunday 28th Nov, 2010
Time: 7:00pm (Screening commences 7:30pm)
Venue: Coburg Library Meeting Room
Corner Victoria and Louisa Streets, Coburg
Cost: $10 (Donation to cover costs)
Platinum & Silver Friendships members FREE
* Cafe-quality coffee and refreshments included *
Enquiries: Tel: 0433 232 014
Email: nilahee@alghazzali.org

To register, go to: http://www.alghazzali.org/register/xpresso_blessed_tree_melb
To purchase the DVD, go to: http://www.invokemedia.bigcartel.com/product/the-blessed-tree
Note that: A limited number of copies will be available on the night for purchase.
More info, visit: http://www.alghazzali.org/events/xpresso_blessed_tree_melb
OR visit our event on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=121710897885606

The Baptism of Jesus Christ - Uncovering Bethany beyond the Jordan Australasian Launch of the Documentary Film

- Commentary and discussion led by Imam Afroz Ali and Fr. Herman Roborgh.

When: Saturday 18th December, 2010
Time: 7:00 pm for a 7:30 pm start
Venue: St. Patricks Cathedral Hall
1 Marist Place
(Cnr. of & entry via Victoria Road, just before O'Connell Street)
Parramatta
Cost: FREE
Enquiries: Tel: (02) 9708 1539
Email: info@alghazzali.org

Go to: http://www.alghazzali.org/register/xpresso_baptism to register!

For more info, go to: http://www.alghazzali.org/events/xpresso_baptism

Fund Raising - Giving Voice to the Victims of Srebrenica

PLUS Information evening on Saturday 11th December 2010


Date: 21st October - 11th December
Cost: Go to http://agcaustralia-srebrenica.eventbrite.com/ to make a contribution
Enquiries: Tel:(02) 9708 1539
Email: erin@alghazzali.org

Go to: http://www.alghazzali.org/register/srebrenica to register to attend Information Evening

15 years ago...

Thousands of men, young and old, lost their lives during a massacre that started on the 11th July 1995. This ‘massacre’ has now officially been recognised as ‘Genocide’ in Bosnia and regarded as “The tragedy of Srebrenica will forever haunt the history of the United Nations”.

Srebrenica victims number from 7000 to 8000, or more, according to different reports. These thousands of men left behind wives, mothers and daughters. These are the forgotten victims of the Bosnian War.

These women were displaced then, and remain displaced. They were forgotten then, and yet they remain forgotten. This documentary will ensure these women and the lives lost will never be forgotten.

Al-Ghazzali Centre, an Executive Producer and Partner of this project, seeks your generous financial support to take this project to completion and give a human voice to the tragedy.

Link to Official Homepage of the Project: http://villageofforgottenwidows.com/
Event link on Al-Ghazzali : http://www.alghazzali.org/events/srebrenica

The Inaugural Biennial Arabic Intensive Retreat

Date: 8th December 2011-8th January 2012 (4 weeks)
Cost: AU$3800 per person ($122/night)
* Go to http://www.alghazzali.org/events/arabicintensive2011-inclusions
to to find out more about inclusions *
Location: Mulgoa (off Sydney) NSW, Australia
Enquiries: Tel: (02) 9708 1539
academydirector@alghazzali.org

Event Outline

Arabic - the language of Qur'an - is a deeply poetic and intellect-engrossing language. As the Qur'an itself attests to its intellectual heritage, "Certainly We have made this an Arabic Qur'an, so that you may think deeply." Islam's heritage of creating the world's first lexicon of a language is also based on the fact that Arabic is a language that requires study, and is more than a colloquial tool for conversation and communication. It is one of the very few languages still existent today where philology is not about textual criticism in order to attempt to reconstruct an original writing, but literally the science of textual critique in terms of interpretation and application by inclusion of foundational and historical usage. Textual critique is a highly developed Islamic Science, and is the key to a sound understanding of Classical Arabic. The Juridical sciences of Islam, which surrounds the life of a Muslim in their daily affairs is based on the power of language in the Sacred Texts, and is entirely different from the formal or colloquial and everyday spoken Arabic.

The inaugural Biennial Summer Arabic Intensive Retreat facilitated by Al-Ghazzali Centre, a first in Australia, will focus on the Classical Arabic - the Arabic of Islam's Sacred Texts, taught by Teachers well versed in it, where the knowledge is imparted to the student in the most practical manner without losing the depth of its classical theory. Al-Ghazzali Centre has hand-picked the Teachers to offer the highest quality in the instructions, including two Teachers who are instructors in the Arabic Intensive Program of the highly acclaimed Zaytuna College.

The esteemed Teachers are:
Shaykh Abdullah bin Hamid Ali (Senior Instructor, Zaytuna College)
Imam Abdul Latif Finch (Instructor, Zaytuna College Arabic Intensive)
Imam Afroz Ali (Senior Instructor, Al-Ghazzali Centre - Australia)
Ustadh Laith al-Khateeb (Instructor, Al-Ghazzali Centre - Australia)
Ustadha Leila Adam (Visiting Instructor, Al-Ghazzali Centre - Australia)


For more info, visit: http://www.alghazzali.org/events/arabicintensive2011-program

A note from the Mizaan Coordinator!

Cooks River started 4 years ago!
Every month I attend the project and I feel great satisfaction and inner peace when I know that I am partaking in something that is beneficial for human survival. I appreciate God All Mightys creation!
Every month we are planting a variety of trees and before you know it grows so fast. Mizaan Ecology is such a rewarding project in many ways, knowing that you are contributing to mother earth and taking on the responsibility is quite breathtaking. I am grateful to be part of this project and seeing the results is remarkable.

Nelley Youssef
Mizaan Coordinator

Please volunteer for the Cooks River Regeneration Project

Mizaan Ecology Projects:

For those of you who don’t know about Mizaan Ecology, it includes environmental- based projects, like its Cooks River regeneration project and awareness workshops and seminars on environmental responsibility and stewardship.

Cooks River regeneration project includes the following specific tasks to improve the Cooks River environ:
- Re-establishment of natural vegetation
- Soil erosion protection
- Regeneration of an environmentally disaster zone

Cooks River Regeneration Project hard work has continued on the banks of the Cook River. Loyally, the Mizaan volunteers have returned month after month to plant trees, weed and restore the natural habitat of a once destroyed riverbank.

So far the volunteers have planted over 4500 plants. These have included Native plants to the Cook’s River Area: Acacia longifolia, Oplismenus, Pandorea pandaorana, Lomandra longifolia, Kinzea ambigua,Hardenbergia violacea .

You can volunteer for Cooks River Regeneration project at http://alghazzali.org/events/cooks_river

SeekersGuidance

Assalaam Alaikum

We are very excited that Imam Afroz Ali will be teaching another course online in collaboration with SeekersGuidance.

Seeking Allah: Imam Muhasibi's Treatise of the Seekers of Guidance Explained

The treatise was masterfully translated by Imam Zaid Shakir, and has been dubbed “a layman’s guide to Islamic spirituality.”

Register now at SeekersGuidance as the course starts next week!

Was salaam,
Erin

Next Friday Class

i missed agc and attending all the classes. can't wait for the next one after ramadan inshAllah

Knowledge Retreat 2011 - Promo!

Assalaam Alaikum All,

Here is the newly released promo for the Knowledge Retreat 2011

Knowledge Retreat 2011 from AGCaustralia on Vimeo.

Enjoy!

Was salaam,
Erin

Registrations being taken!

A Journey with Knowledge and Light - you are Invited!

Be in the company of some esteemed Scholars and very special guests!
•Shaykh Faraz Rabbani (Seekers Guidance - Canada)
•Ustadh Usama Canon (Ta'leef Collective - USA)
•Imam Afroz Ali (Al-Ghazzali Centre - Australia)
•Haji Noor Deen
•Sidi Nader Khan and the Singapore Haqqani Ensemble

You are invited to 5 nights and 4 days of inspiring knowledge, moving spiritual renditions, noble companionship - join in this journey!

http://alghazzali.org/events/retreat2011

For more info, please contact: academydirector@alghazzali.org

Knowledge Retreat 2011

Registrations are opening soon for the next Retreat!

I can feel the excitement building already and its still over 6 months away. Theres a buzz in the air with the line-up of esteemed Scholars and other amazing talents.

Just check out the line up:

Teachers:

- Shaykh Faraz Rabbani (Seekers Guidance)

- Shaykh Usama Canon (Taleef Collective)

- Imam Afroz Ali (Al-Ghazzali Centre)


Including, participating international guests:

- Sidi Nader Khan (Canada)

- Haji Noor Deen (China)

- Nasheed Ensemble (Singapore)

Masha'Allah!

Can't wait for April 2011.... Sabr, Sabr!

Join the AGC Facebook page, for the latest updates

The Retreat

Blessed is the land that yearns for deen
Returning innate disposition unforeseen.

The mountains testify to mask the shaking
Granted are we for it's taking.
Rent asunder had it been by the weight of the Book.
Contemplation necessitates a second look.

Radiating beauty by the flaps of it's wings
The butterfly withdraws from exoteric things.
It is the esoteric by which it completes
The universe in unison at the blessed retreat.

Adhkar and Qasidas resonate the space,
Global Ummah revived in an intricate lace.
Purification, patience, tribulations and pain
Teaches one to be steadfast, to remain from disdain.

Green
The middle path which surrounds
This enlightened valley where once Muslims found
Sakeenah, barakah and rahma too
But All is planned by the One, Allahu.

The place of giants on whose shoulders we stand,
May the Messenger's supplications revive this land.
These gardens where Shaykh ul Akbar's dhikr resided,
Conquered it fell as philosophies collided.

The auliya have once again returned to Spain.
Al Andalus no more we say with hearty pain.
Yet the trees smile and the lands yearn,
The cosmos in our hearts if only people learn.

Prostrations of tears fill the heavy heart
but supplications defragments the courses apart.
For the One is Wisdom and justice too,
May Al-Andalus be in the prayers of me and you.

Tears do not justify this Garden here on this blessed soil,
May God flourish Islam here again, free from all it's toils.

Written on my phone while waiting in between classes at the Rihla, Spain, July 2010.

DIRT! The Movie - Interesting Show

In the name of God the most Gracious and the most Merciful, tonight my wife and I attended Xpresso Night organized by al-Ghazzali to watch a show called 'Dirt! The Movie' hand picked by brother Irfan - good choice brother! Today folks my intention is not to review the show itself but rather give a general experience of the night and some lessons learnt from it - God willing.

After a quick registration (and placing our orders for our hot latte!) we found our place in the al-Ghazzali lecture room and bang got into the show and all about Dirt! As the movie slogan says 'Get Dirty!'

An interesting perspective on the basis of our current global crisis related to global warming. The movie is based around the importance of Agriculture for life and the importance of preserving earth for long term farming. We learn from the movie how large scale Monoculture is slowly depleting the soil off its nutrients and making the land barren in the long run, similar devastating effects of coal mining and deforestation.

After the show we reflected as a group on how we have so blindly let things get so out of hand and find ourselves struggling for this very Dirt which is now priceless. Its amazing to note how little in touch we are with Dirt as we leave in our so called 'modern' concrete jungle. And it seems the worse off are the kids of our time who find it hard to comprehend the fact that they can literally get their hands dirty.

So this leads to my final observation from this show and that is who is really responsible? Well folks to help us answer this question god willing, I am inclined to ask another question, did we as individuals push for the mass production of food and resources which is ultimately destoying our planet or did the concept of mass production squeeze out the traditional farming\harvesting practices which were so true to earth. It comes down to 'GREED' I guess as we strive for cheaper food, fuel etc. and the world around us finds ways of supplying even cheaper means of producing them!

Left with a guilty conscious after the show, the Mizaan Ecology - Cooks River Regeneration Project run by al-Ghazzali next weekend seems to be on the cards - God willing. So as they say in the movie 'God made Dirt & Dirt don't Hurt!'

Wasalam

Taupheeq

Ansaar Project July 2010

In the name of Allah the most gracious and the most merciful I write my first official Blog on the Saturday Ansaar Project for feeding the homeless organised by the al-Ghazzali Centre.

My wife Patrina and I arrived at the Exodus Centre in Ashfield at 1pm and made our way to the staff room where the rest of the team had gathered and were waiting for the team leaders to allocate tasks and officially start the day. Shortly Shariff (Day Leader) arrived and went through the drill and we all headed to the kitchen to gear up and start our various tasks. Today Mohammed (counting down ten days in Sydney before heading home in Saudi) and I were allocated the stove, oven, mopping and rubbish bins! With our experience from the previous few sessions, we knew we had no time to waste and got started with boiling the water and cleaning the oven.

Meanwhile the 'chopping team' of Farid, Imraan, Alwie, Sadia, Hend, Samar, Selma and my wife got stuck into it and by the grace of Allah did a great job of the potatoes and had them ready even before the pot got warm! They completed their day with the same ferocity and efficiency.

In the interim Irfan had the cooking under control and with Hogai as his assistance for the day, also ran through the dishes in a timely manner. Murisa (Day Leader trainee) and Nasheen were great help as our testers for the various meat and vegetables Mohammed and I were offloading while yelling 'HOT' each time for safety.

Murisa went on to help us with dressing the pasta which was the last item on the stove at the end of the day. After yelling 'hot' for the hundredth time, Mohammed and I offloaded the final batch of the food and headed for Magrib prayer.

We wrapped up the day with Dinner and tried out the various (delicious too except for a few burnt broccoli in the Frittata – which I am sure Wajeeha had a very good excuse for as she did exceptionally well with the rice and Samosa) dishes and bid our farewell to an exceptional group of individuals we thoroughly enjoyed working with for Allah's sake and may Allah reward and accept our efforts.

We also hope everyone enjoyed their meals in the park Insha-Allah.

Wasalam

Taupheeq

The Ansaar Project - feeding the hungry

Assalamu alaykum =)
I feel the need to report on the awesome-ness of the Ansaar Project we did on Saturday 24th at Exodus. Perhaps the awesomeness part was because I was training to become the leader of the group...so that I can boss them around a bit. LOL joooke!!
The Ansaar Project is one of the two feeding the homeless projects that the al Ghazzali Centre runs. I usually do the day-shift because I love cooking in the big bratt pans.(dayshift's where we cook a few very nice dishes and then at night it is distributed at Hyde Park)
The dishes that we cook are bolognaise (my favorite), curry, honey chicken stir fry, rice, pasta, salad, samosas aaaand the best frittata made by our own Wajeeha Z to the A to the GHAM (Lol what a weird last name)! Seriously mashAllah she does them beautifully!

So I was saying..the awesomeness of the project. I did the night shift only once and I did enjoy it, it was really nice seeing to who all the food we make goes to, and hear how grateful they are. Then you know that you are really doing a good thing.
I was actually amazed to see that there is so many hungry on the street the first time I went to help out too. SubhanAllah!
But I enjoy doing the day shift much more, maybe because I like to be behind the scenes... and as I said I get to boss people around, like 'cut those veggies'...'now cut those' haha/it's pretty fun =P
And at the end we get to eat the products too, which is really great, because you get so tired and then you have this nice meal.

Another great thing about the project is the faces you get to meet, and especially if they are regulars you form some really nice friendships. I have to say it is really great when the volunteers come back again and again.

For more info and to register for the project please go to
http://www.alghazzali.org/events/ansaar
and you can also find us on facebook under the name The Ansaar Project

Well hope to see you there next month inshAllah
Peace out!!

Ramadhan Food Packs - Ansaar Project initiative

Latest Update (7th July 2010)

http://alghazzali.org/resources/ramadan-packs-2010.pdf

Alhamdulillah, this year the Ansaar Project, in collaboration with NEXUS APAC members IQRA Islamic Trust (Fiji), and Rasheed Memorial Daawah Trust (New Zealand) will again be providing food packs to Muslims in Fiji who cannot afford food items for suhur and iftar during Ramadan, and are especially targeted at women and the unemployed.

Each food pack would include groceries that can be used for these meals and last up to 10 days. The cost if each food pack is about $45 AUD, and will contain the same contents as last year:

•Normal Flour- 1 x 4kg
•NZ Ghee- 1 x 750ml
•Royal Tea- 2 x 200grams
•Royal Tea- 1 x 100grams
•Sugar- 1 x 4kg
•Rewa Powdered Milk- 1 x 500grams
•Rolled Oats- 1 x 400grams
•Potatoes- 1 x 4kg
•Onion- 1 x 1kg
•Garlic- 1 x 500grams
•Blue Peas- 1 x 1 kg
•Split Peas- 1 x 1kg
•Salt- 1 x 1kg
•Soya Bean Oil- 2 x 900ml
•Sunquick Fruit Cordial- 1 x 840ml
•Long Grain Rice- 1 x 4kg
•Custard Powder- 1 x 200grams
•Dates- 500grams

Al-Ghazzali Centre will be sending through a bulk transfer from Australia a week before the start of Ramadan, and hence the cut-off date for transfers to reach Al-Ghazzali Centre accounts is Tuesday 3rd August

The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said, "Whoever feeds a person who is fasting with food to break fast, will have reward equal to his fasting without diminishing the slightest the reward of that fasting person.
[Narrated by Tirmidhi]

Prince among Slaves

“I hate it when they tell us how far we came to be, as if our peoples history started with slavery.” Immortal Technique

Prince Among Slaves is a fascinating account of the life of Abdul Rahman, an African prince captured in West Africa and sold into slavery. What distinguishes this story from other slave narratives is the insight it provides into Abdul Rahman’s life before slavery.

Born to the King of Futa-Jaloo, the capital city of Timbo (West Africa), Abdul Rahman was an educated man living in a well developed African society. He was captured in 1788 and transported to the American South, where he was forced to work on a cotton plantation for a poor farmer in Mississippi. He spent the next 40 years in slavery until he was eventually emancipated at the age of 66.

This interesting documentary – conveniently screened at AGC before the opening ceremony of the World Cup in South Africa – reminded us of what Africa once was, and the noble traits of the African people, embodied in the inspiring Prince, Abdul Rahman.

The group de-brief with Imam Afroz after the screening directed us to consider how we as individuals and a community can work to assist the people of Africa. Br. Afroz reflected on our contribution to the plight of Africans, both positive and negative, and helped us understand how we can work to improve their situation.

All in all it was a wonderful evening. Getting together with the Muslim community and sharing some coffee, cake and a carefully selected documentary, is an excellent way to spend a Saturday night.

The next AGC documentary screens on Saturday the 31st of July. Details can be found here:

http://alghazzali.org/events/xpresso_dirt_themovie

Thanks to Kal for this review on Prince Amoung Slaves

Ethics and Spirituality of Food Workshop

Hippies, Vegans, Raw-foodists and broad beans. I must admit these were some of my initial reactions to the idea of ethics and food. Over time however, after researching and speaking with those who have both knowledge and experience in this area, my ideas have changed drastically.

Al Ghazzali Centre ran a one day workshop on Queens Birthday weekend at ICV in Melbourne. It was a real eye opener to the reality of what we are consuming on a daily basis. We all know that the division of resources, in particular food, has created a global crisis. The vast majority of resources are directed to the West.

Due to over consumption many of us are battling obesity and a variety of related ailments and, worse still, are overindulging our nafs. What we often overlook however, is how this overconsumption is being maintained. Where does all this food come from and what processes are involved in meeting our excessive needs at such affordable prices?

The workshop gave a valuable introduction to industrial farming and the processes it involves here in Australia and around the world. Imam Afroz particularly focussed on the process involved in milk production and the importance of drinking organic milk. He opened our minds to the idea of joining a cow share in order to obtain fresh, unpasteurised milk. I think this is something we should definitely implement here in Melbourne. For many of us it was a much needed reminder of the things we had learned before but forgotten to give due importance to, or that had been put in the ‘too hard basket’.

One of the highlights of the day was the testing of organic vs non organic vegetables. Imam Afroz confidently compared the juice of both vegetables and fruit and measured them with a Refractometer. The organic fruit and vegetables consistently came out trumps. He also shared with us anecdotes from his home life where both he and his wife bought broccoli; one organic and one non organic. Of course the organic one wilted after a short time but the non organic just kept on going and going and going. At first glance this seems great. (I love digging out that broccoli I’d forgotten about and finding it in perfect cooking condition.) However, it doesn’t take much thought to realise why one outlasts the other.

I guess the main point of this is for us to ask Why and How (Where and even Who), when it comes to our food, and not just take things at face value. Not only should we be concerned with what we are putting into our bodies, but as humans and Muslims we should be concerned with the moral responsibility of who has suffered in order for us to receive food on our table. Are we contributing to an oppressive system, or are we resisting against it?

يَا أَيُّهَا النَّاسُ كُلُواْ مِمَّا فِي الأَرْضِ حَلاَلاً طَيِّباً وَلاَ تَتَّبِعُواْ خُطُوَاتِ الشَّيْطَانِ إِنَّهُ لَكُمْ عَدُوٌّ مُّبِينٌ 2:168

We’ve all been taught to say Bismillah before we eat and Alhamdulillah when we are finished, and to eat of what is halal. Many of us have forgotten to think about what is ‘tayyib’ (good, wholesome). By making this extra effort to scrutinise our food, we are not only benefitting ourselves physically Inshallah, but with the correct intention we can increase our reward countless times with Allah SWT.

As always Imam Afroz shared many words of wisdom with us and those that stuck with me the most were to the effect of “Be absolutely scrupulous in your own home“. Once you get that right, other things will fall into place. It reminds us to keep the correct focus and work on our circle of influence. Imagine how the world would change if we all just kept to this one simple principle!

Melbourne Marriage Workshop Part 1

Marriage. Now there’s a fail-proof way to fill a room up with young Muslims! In early June, Melbourne was blessed with the presence of Imam Afroz Ali to run Part One of his highly acclaimed 3-part Marriage Workshop series. This exciting 2-day workshop provided a balance of Islamic principles, practical application and sage advice.

The workshop began by considering some practical guidelines on what to seek in a potential spouse and what to expect from marriage. For those who have benefited from Imam Afroz’s classes before, I’m sure you will agree that he is anything but a sugar-coater. We were very quickly introduced to the reality of what marriage entailed, and that considering a potential “significant other” demanded more than a skin-deep appraisal and a warm fuzzy feeling inside.

We were introduced to a quick mental exercise known as the “swing test” – imagine you and your spouse sitting on a swing when you’re 70: Hairless, toothless, and whatever else Allah SWT has gracefully caused to slip away over the years, and be able to honestly look into each other’s eyes and say, “I love you”.

So if not to look for beauty, what are we to search for in a potential spouse? Why, Deen of course! Also, Taqwa and compatibility.

There was a large fiqh component to the weekend, covering the rights and responsibilities of husband and wife and the due process of entering into a marriage contract. The workshop format here provided a fantastic avenue for answering all those sensitive questions and pressing concerns on the minds of participants. Myths surrounding nikah, engagements, mahr, rights, ill-conduct and divorce were tackled and dispelled.

If any of our heads still remained in the clouds after all that, Imam Afroz ensured that our feet were firmly on the ground for the final homerun. He posed the question to us: “How can you know what you are looking for, if you don’t know who you are?” Or more importantly: “How can you expect things from a spouse, without acknowledging what you have to give?”

It can be easy to mentally construct the perfect partner, who will not only complete our life but will amiably put up with all our shortcomings as well! There’s no need to discuss the impossibility of such a situation. We cannot expect to seek perfection in another, but rather we should be striving to attain perfection within ourselves. Becoming aware of our many shortcomings, and taking steps to correct them where possible, is an important part of an individual’s spiritual journey.This will be the subject of Marriage Workshop Part 2.

All things considered, those matters that may have once seemed so important, such as beauty, an expensive mahr and fancy wedding parties, pale in comparison to the ultimate goal of reaching a station of Ihsan with Allah SWT, and sharing that journey with a life partner.

Meeting Bishop Kevin Manning

Assalamu alaykum

On Saturday I attended an Interfaith gathering especially prepared for Bishop Kevin Manning, as he’s retiring. I think I heard of his name before but I never met him; it was like "whatever…just another priest, doing priestly work…" But on Saturday I got to find out that he was very much involved in interfaith and a very big advocate for Muslims. Whenever the media spoke ill of us, he’d be amongst the first out there, gathering people and telling them that is not true and what Islam truly is. I was really impressed and surprised at the same time, because I knew that a lot of Christians know what Islam teaches, but to go out of ones way to defend a religion other then your own is really something!

He made me realize that interfaith is something that is really, really necessary. And not for us to come together and compare the religions as the Bishop said, but for us to get to know each other, each others beliefs, and build trust - the key point. I always thought that I could see benefit in this, since I attended a few interfaith functions, but I couldn’t put my finger on it, and that’s what it was – trust.

So even though we have differences in belief, this is not what should be dividing us at all as the Bishop said, not at all; it is the trust at human level that binds us.

And what’s the use of the trust? Well if I don’t trust you how would you expect me to believe anything you say, and to believe you, and that you are who you say you are. So trust is the power that gets people to be on your side, so when others speak ill of you, he/she will be standing by you.

So in the case of Bishop Manning he trusts that Islam does not teach Muslims certain things that the media likes to pick on, because he studied Islam and met Muslims who proved that they are good people; and the Bishop has people who have trust in him as the leader of their community and when he spreads the word of who Muslims really are, they listen to him; and those people will mention to someone else, and/or teach their children what they’ve been taught …and so on and so on.

Interfaith works! No doubt!

Just wanted to share that with everyone because as Imam Afroz and the Bishop talked, my eyes teared up at what wonderful things he had to say about Islam…[remember, coming from a Christian!]. Allah works in amazing ways =)