Mawlid :: To Celebrate or Not To ?????

بسم اللّٰہ الرحمٰن الرحیم

 

السلامُ علیکم و رحمۃ اللہ و برکاتہ

To Celebrate or not to Celebrate...that's the Question

by Asma bint Shameem

Some of us celebrate it with great devotion and diligence, while some of us are against it with an equally great vengeance. Some say it is our religious duty while others say it is nothing but bid'ah.

People argue about it. Families split up, friends forsake each other. And sometimes people literally fight over it and hurt one another.

So what is it that I am talking about?

I am talking about celebrating the birthday of the Prophet صل اللہ عليه و سلم, the Mawlid or Milad, as some of us say.

Yes, the 12th of Rabi-ul-Awwal is what I'm talking about. But, ever wondered..... what is the reality regarding the celebration of the birth of our beloved Prophet صل اللہ عليه و سلم anyway?

Let's examine the facts.

First of all, whenever a Muslim is faced with a problem or confusing situation, what are we supposed to do? Allaah tells us:

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُواْ أَطِيعُواْ اللّهَ وَأَطِيعُواْ الرَّسُولَ وَأُوْلِي الأَمْرِ مِنكُمْ فَإِن تَنَازَعْتُمْ فِي شَيْءٍ فَرُدُّوهُ إِلَى اللّهِ

وَالرَّسُولِ إِن كُنتُمْ تُؤْمِنُونَ بِاللّهِ وَالْيَوْمِ الآخِرِ ذَلِكَ خَيْرٌ وَأَحْسَنُ تَأْوِيلاً

“O you who believe! Obey Allaah and obey the Messenger (Muhammad), and those of you (Muslims) who are in authority. (And) if you differ in anything amongst yourselves, refer it to Allaah and His Messenger, if you believe in Allaah and in the Last Day. That is better and more suitable for final determination” [Nisaa’:59]

Referring it to Allaah and His Messenger means to turn to Allaah's Book and the Sunnah of our beloved Prophet صل اللہ عليه و سلم.

What does

the Qur’aan say about it?

1. What does the Qur'aan say about the Mawlid?

Nothing.

Yes that's right.....NOTHING. There is absolutely nothing in the Qur'aan that tells us to celebrate the birthday of the Prophet صل اللہ عليه و سلم . Not one single ayah.

You see, all acts of worship are tawqeefi which means that they are not subject to personal opinion and it is not permissible to do any acts of worship except those which are approved by Sharee'ah.

So, for example, I cannot pick a special day or time, say the 22nd of every month, and start celebrating that day as a form of worship. Why?

Because there is nothing in the Sharee'ah that permits me to do that.

By the same token, I cannot start praying three raka'ah for Fajr from tomorrow, even if I want to worship Allaah more, because Fajr Salah is only two rakaat as commanded upon us by the Sharee'ah.

And similarly, if there is no order for us to celebrate the birthday of the Prophet صل اللہ عليه و سلم , then we don't.

In fact, the Prophet صل اللہ عليه و سلم said: “Whoever innovates anything in this matter of ours (i.e., Islam), that is not part of it will have it rejected.” (Bukhaari).

Now someone might argue that we don't celebrate the Mawlid/Milad as an act of worship. So let's see what other evidences we have.

 

IS IT IN THE SUNNAH?

2. What does the Sunnah say about it?

Again, there is nothing in the Sunnah of the Prophet صل اللہ عليه و سلم that shows us that

he صل اللہ عليه و سلم EVER celebrated his birthday or that of his wives, children, or Sahaabah.

There is not one single hadeeth that tells us that he صل اللہ عليه و سلم thought this day was significant enough to celebrate it.

Just think.....if there was any good in doing so, wouldn't he would have done so himself and wouldn't he have ordered the Sahaabah to do so?

And obviously, it is not possible that he صل اللہ عليه و سلم forgot to tell us about it, Aoodhu billaah!

Did the Sahaabah celebrate the Mawlid/Milad?

The Sahaabah were witnesses to the revelation of the Qur'aan. They had the Prophet صل اللہ عليه و سلم right in front of their eyes. They ate, drank, sat, slept, talked, walked, lived with the Prophet (صل اللہ عليه و سلم). If they misunderstood anything or were mistaken, the Prophet (صل اللہ عليه و سلم) immediately corrected them.

And thus, their understanding and practice of Islaam was the best.

Yet, when we look at the lives and practice of the Sahaabah, we find that NONE of them EVER celebrated the birth of their beloved Prophet صل اللہ عليه و سلم, whether during his life or even after he passed away.

Not Abubakr, not Umar, not Uthman, not Ali, nor Aaishah, Ibn Umar, Ibn Masud, Talha, Az-Zubair, Bilal Radhi Allaahu Anhum Ajma'een. Not. One. Single. Sahaabi.

Doesn't that prove anything?

The Sahaabah absolutely loved the Prophet (صل اللہ عليه و سلم). They gave up their homes, families, lives, everything they had... for his sake, in the blink of an eye. Yet this love did NOT promote them to celebrate his birth.

 

This love translated into the practical application of his teachings and NOT picking the 12th of Rabi-ul-Awwal to celebrate his birthday.

What about the Four Imaams and other Ulama?

Did any of the Imaams or scholars – Abu Haneefah, Maalik, al-Shaafi’i, Ahmad, al-Hasan al-Basri, Mujaahid, Ibn alQayyim, etc. do this or command others to do it or say that it was good? No. In fact, it was not even mentioned during the first and best three centuries.

The Prophet صل اللہ عليه و سلم said: “The best of mankind are my generation, then those who come after them, then those who come after them." (Bukhaari, Muslim).

And if the 'best of mankind' didn't celebrate his birth, then we shouldn't either.

Actually, the celebration of the Prophet’s birthday appeared many centuries later. By this time, many of the features of true religion had disappeared and bid’ah had become widespread.

Think about it!

Can it be possible that the Sahaabah, the Imaams and the people of the best three centuries were unaware of the importance of celebrating the birthday of the Prophet صل اللہ عليه و سلم or that they were lacking in their love for him?

And it was only those who came later who were aware of it or loved him more?!!! How can that be?!!

Actually, dear brother/sister in Islaam, TRUE love of the Prophet صل اللہ عليه و سلم is shown and proven by following the guidance that he صل اللہ عليه و سلم brought. So follow his Sunnah to the best of your ability and don't fall into innovated forms of worship. It is nothing but a trap of the Shaytaan.

قُلْ إِن كُنتُمْ تُحِبُّونَ اللّهَ فَاتَّبِعُونِي يُحْبِبْكُمُ اللّهُ وَيَغْفِرْ لَكُمْ ذُنُوبَكُمْ وَاللّهُ غَفُورٌ رَّحِيمٌ

“Say (O Muhammad): ‘If you (really) love Allaah, then follow me, Allah will love you and forgive you your sins. And Allaah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful." (Aal ‘Imraan 3:31)

And remember the words of the Prophet صل اللہ عليه و سلم when he said:

“The best of speech is the Book of Allaah, and the best of guidance is the guidance of Muhammad. The most evil of things are those which are newly-invented (in religion), and every innovation (bid'ah) is a going astray.” (Muslim).

And Allaah knows best.

جزاک اللہ خیر

والسلام علیکم و رحمۃ اللہ و برکاتہ

--

بسم اللہ الرحمٰن الرحیم 

السلام علیکم و رحمۃ اللہ و برکۃ

 

May Allah swt strengthens His Taqwa in our hearts. ameen

'

 ' T

here is no obedience to any created  being if it involves disobedience towards the Creator"

 


With Thanks to: Sis.Tanveer Jahan

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GRAND INTERNATIONAL ESSAY CONTEST with prizes worth Indian Rs. One Million (US$ 20,000)

LET US KNOW THIS MAN PROPHET MUHAMMED(S),THE MESSENGER OF PEACE 

No matter who you are, no matter what your religious, ideological and political beliefs are, you must know this Man. Prophet Muhammed (S) was an epitome of truth, purity and righteousness. He was the most remarkable man that ever set foot on Earth. He preached a religion, founded a State, built a nation, laid down a moral code, initiated numerous social and political reforms, and established a dynamic society where fairness and integrity were the norms. 

A simple incident provides a glimpse to his personality: 

Once some of his companions took away the chicks of a bird from their nest to stroke them. When the mother bird found her chicks missing from the nest, it began to fly around screeching. When informed of the matter, Prophet Muhammed (S) the messenger of God disapproved the act of his companions and ordered the chicks to be put back in the nest. 

Here we present all non-Muslims a golden opportunity to know the greatest benefactor of mankind and how his revolutionary teachings can change our lives in order to make this world a better place to live in. All you need to do is submit an essay on the topic, ‘Let us know this man’, keeping in mind the following rules. Exciting cash prizes are up for grabs. 

Rules and Guidelines for Participation in the Essay contest 

Eligibility: 

This contest is exclusively for Non-Muslims from any part of the world. 

Scope of the Essay: 

The essay ‘LET US KNOW THIS MAN’ must cover most of the following dimensions of the life and teachings of Prophet Muhammed (S): 

• His teachings on Peace,
• Unity of God, 
• Unity of Mankind, 
• Human Relations and 
• Universal Brotherhood 
• His success in liberating the society from evils 
• His attitude towards his opponents, people of other faiths and Prisoners Of War (POW) 

Conclusion: 

Please write your impressions about Prophet Muhammed (S) before and after joining this contest. 

Sources: 

For information on the above subjects, the participants may visit the following links or may benefit from any other source. However, please do mention those sources in your essay. 

• Ar-Raheeq Al-Makhtum – The Sealed Nectar, by Saifur Rahman al-Mubarakpuri
• MUHAMMAD The Last Prophet, A Model For All Times Sayed Abul Hasan Ali Nadwi
• Articles by Dr. Muhammed Rateb Nabulsi
• Biography of Muhammad Rasulullah by Abul hasan ‘Ali Nadwi  
• MUHAMMAD The Last Prophet, A short biography by Abul hasan ‘Ali Nadwi  
• The translation of the holy Quran by Abdullah Yusuf Ali  
• Other books  
• For more sources  

Enrolment :

The process of enrolment will begin on 7th January 2013 and will end on 15th March 2013. Candidates willing to participate in the contest must enroll themselves by providing the following details: 

1.Name, age, occupation and address – both e-mail and postal address 

2.Brief self introduction 

3.Copy of any authentic photo ID card. 

4.A Passport size photo. 

These details may be sent by email to madhyamakendra1@gmail.com OR madhyamakendra2@gmail.com 

You may also send your essays by post to 

Madhyama Kendra, 

P.O.Box No 156, 

C 21, 2nd floor Al Rahaba Plaza, 

Nellikai Road, 

Mangalore, 

Karnataka, 

India -575001 

Last date for submission of essays: 

15th April 2013. 

Modes of Submission: 

1. Please carefully note the dates for enrollment and the final date for submission of the Essays. 
2. Preferably, the essays must be written in English. 
3. However, Indians may write their essays in Hindi, Tamil, Bengali, Malayalam, Kannada, Marathi, Bengali, Punjabi and Assamese language as well. 
4. The essays may be submitted online or in the form of hard copy. 
5. Only original essays will be considered for the competition. 
6. No part of it should have been published earlier nor should it be under consideration for publication or a contest elsewhere. 
7. Any form of plagiarism will result in is disqualification of the entry. 
8. Only one essay per participant is permitted. 

Length of the essay: 

The essay shall be not less than 3000 words or 10 A4 size pages.

Essays must have a cover page containing the name and contact details of the participant, The words “Essay Competition” must be clearly written on the top of the external cover /envelope. 

Online email submission should be in MS WORD attachment, clearly mentioning the subject. 

Prizes The Winners will be awarded as follows: 

# First prize : Indian Rupees 500,000 (US $10,000) 

# Second prize : Indian Rupees 300,000 (US $6,000) 

# Third prize : Indian Rupees 200,000 (US $4,000) 

# Special prizes for 200 select entries. 

Selected essays will be published in 4 major languages i.e. English, Hindi, Arabic and Urdu.

In case 200 or more essays are received from any particular country, three special prizes will be awarded to selected participants from each such country. 

In case 200 or more essays are received in any particular Indian language, three special prizes will be awarded to selected participants in each such language. 

Prizes will be distributed in a specially convened international conference 

Other terms and conditions: 

The entire administration of the contest including determining the eligibility of participant or essays, standard of essays , evaluation and awarding of the prizes is within the sole and absolute discretion of Madhyama Kendra, Mangalore. Madhyama Kendra, Mangalore assumes no responsibility for lost, delayed or incomplete entries or technical malfunction of the server, traffic congestion on net or a combination thereof.

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[The Hindu] Why I can’t pay tribute to Thackeray

 

MARKANDEY KATJU

Political leaders, film stars, cricketers, etc. are all falling over one another to pay tribute to the late Bal Thackeray. Amidst this plethora of accolades and plaudits pouring in from the high and mighty, I humbly wish to register my vote of dissent.
I know of the maxim De mortuis nil nisi bonum (of the dead speak only good), but I regret I cannot, since I regard the interest of my country above observance of civil proprieties.

What is Bal Thackeray’s legacy?

It is the anti-national ‘sons of the soil’ (bhumiputra) theory.

Article 1(1) of the Indian Constitution states: “India, that is Bharat, shall be a Union of States.”
Thus, India is not a confederation but a union.

Article 19 (1) (e) states: “All citizens shall have the right — to reside and settle in any part of the territory of India.”

Thus, it is a fundamental right of a Gujarati, south Indian, Bihari, U.P.ite, or person from any other part of India to migrate to Maharashtra and settle down there, just as it is of Maharashtrians to settle down in any part of India (though there are some restrictions in J&K, and some North-East States, due to historical reasons).
The bhumiputra theory states that Maharashtra essentially belongs to Marathi people, while Gujaratis, south Indians, north Indians, etc. are outsiders. This is in the teeth of Articles 1(1) and 19(1)(e) of the Constitution. India is one nation, and hence non-Maharashtrians cannot be treated as outsiders in Maharashtra.
The Shiv Sena created by Thackeray attacked south Indians in the 1960s and 70s, and vandalised their restaurants and homes. In 2008, Biharis and U.P.ites living in Mumbai (the bhaiyyas who eke out a livelihood as milk and newspaper vendors, taxi drivers etc.) were described as infiltrators and attacked, their taxis smashed, and several beaten up. Muslims were also vilified.

This, of course, created a vote bank for Thackeray based on hatred (as had Hitler, of whom Thackeray was an admirer), and how does it matter if the country breaks up and is Balkanised?

Apart from the objection to the ‘sons of the soil’ theory for being anti-national and unconstitutional, there is an even more basic objection, which may rebound on Thackeray’s own people.

India is broadly a country of immigrants (like North America) and 92-93 per cent of the people living in India today are not the original inhabitants but descendants of immigrants who came mainly from the north-west seeking a comfortable life in the sub-continent (see the article ‘What is India?’ on my blog justicekatju.blogspot.in and the video on the website kgfindia.com ).

The original inhabitants (the real bhumiputra) of India are the pre-Dravidian tribals, known as Adivasis (the Bhils, Gonds, Santhals, Todas, etc.) who are only 7-8 per cent of our population today.

Hence if the bhumiputra theory is seriously implemented, 92-93 per cent of Maharashtrians (including, perhaps, the Thackeray family) may have to be regarded as outsiders and treated accordingly. The only real bhumiputra in Maharashtra are the Bhils and other tribals, who are only 7-8 per cent of the population of Maharashtra.

Several separatist and fissiparous forces are at work in India today (including the bhumiputra theory). All patriotic people must combat these forces.

Why must we remain united? We must remain united because only a massive modern industry can generate the huge wealth we require for the welfare of our people — agriculture alone cannot do this — and modern industry requires a huge market. Only a united India can provide the huge market for the modern industry we must create to abolish poverty, unemployment and other social evils, and to provide for the huge health care and modern education systems we must set up if we wish to come to the front ranks of the most advanced countries.

Hence I regret I cannot pay any tribute to Mr. Bal Thackeray.
(Markandey Katju is Chairman, Press Council of India.)

Source: The Hindu - 19/11/2012.

## Respected Katju Sir, I appreciate your courage and Determination.

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Save yourself from the FB side bar Fitnah..!!

If you are tired of seeing those almost half nude Ads shown on FB'S side bar, then follow these steps.

1. Bring your cursor to the ads top right corner, and you will see a 'X' .
2. It will show you 'Hide This Ad / Hide all Ads from so and so'.
3. Choose what you want to do.
4. From the resulting window, choose any of the below options.
--------------------------------------------------------

Ads hidden
We'll try not to show you ads from xxxxxxxxxxxxx.
Why did you hide them?

• Uninteresting
• Misleading
• Sexually explicit
• Against my views
• Offensive
• Repetitive
• Other

--------------------------------------------------------
5. Again it will ask you
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Ads Hidden
To help us show you better ads, tell us what you like.

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6. Go to the resulting page and choose as much as Islamic oriented or kids oriented or science / schools / FMCG brands... whatever you like.

7. Remember that these Ads are analyzed from your 'Likes' so like such good / decent / information pages which will protect your 'Hijab' from the half-nude-sidebar :))

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The Ten Days Of Dhul Hijjah

The Best Days of Deals are Here !!!

RasulAllāh صلى الله عليه وسلم said: “There are no days wherein righteous actions are more beloved to Allaah than these ten days (of Dhul Hijjah).” They said: Not even jihad in the way of Allaah? He صلى الله عليه وسلم said: “Not even jihad in the way of Allaah, except for a man who leaves out (for jihad) with his wealth and self and doesn’t return back with any of them.” - Saheeh Bukhaari, Book of The Two Eids, Hadith #919 RasulAllāh صلى الله عليه وسلم was asked about fasting on The Day of ‘Arafah. [He, صلى الله عليه وسلم replied]: ‘Fasting on the day of ‘Arafah is an expiation of last year’s and next year’s sins.’ - Sunan Nisaa’i, 4/205 and Sunan Abu Dawud; classified by al-Albaani as saheeh in Saheeh Abi Dawud, 2/462 Please note: The Day of Arafah is the day before the day of Eid. Fasting expiates minor sins of last and next years; for major sins, repentance is required. It is not established in the Sunnah for pilgrims to fast this day.  (source). Remember Allah much - sitting, standing, walking, lying by your side. "…and the men and the women who remember Allaah much with their hearts and tongues – Allaah has prepared for them forgiveness and a great reward (i.e. Paradise)." - Surah al-Ahzaab 33, Aayah 35 Keep saying: Sub-han-Allah | Al-Hamdu-Lillah | Allahu akbar Laa-ilaaha illallah Allaahu akbar, Allaahu akbar, la ilaaha ill-Allaah; wallaahu akbar Allahu akbar wa Lillaahi’l-hamd About saying takbeer (Allahu akbar) after each Salaah, refer here. Write the above adhkaar, stick them in your workplace and inside home. RasulAllāh صلى الله عليه وسلم said: “When any one of you intending to sacrifice the animal enters in the month (of Dhul-Hijjah) he should not get his hair or nails touched (cut/trimmed)”. - Saheeh Muslim, The Book of Sacrifices, Hadith #146 What about family members, are they allowed to cut hair or nails? Know it here. Perform Hajj: Rasool Allah صلى الله عليه وسلم is reported to have said: "An accepted Hajj brings no less a reward than Jannah". Those not going to Hajj should gain the Love of Allah during these special days by worshipping Allaah, praying (salaat), reading Qur`an, remembering Allaah, making supplication (du‘aa), giving charity, honouring his parents, upholding the ties of kinship, enjoining what is good and forbidding what is evil and so on.

||  Get Beautiful Emails  ||  Share Your Feedback ||  View the web version Behind each email, there's sincere intention to get closer to the Deen The First Three Generations lived by. If you wish to opt out, click here.

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Help and reap immeasurable rewards.

Pl see this link for Tamil version -- http://bit.ly/Sadaqah
Pl Contact in mail, if you need a handwritten request and/or hospital acknowledgment.

HELP WANTED FROM KIND-HEARTED PEOPLE :
    This letter is in regard to one of a Tamilian who was severely injured while working in Riyadh and is seeking all of our help.

Habibur Rahman from Melappalayam Tirunelveli District after completing his alim course from Usmaniyya arabic college , had to go to Riyadh to work and thereby support his family in poverty .
    In his work , while he was trying to attach a built steel room onto the elevator , the rope that was tied  with the rollerwheel , got cut , and fell right onto the steel room floor base and he was severely injured , his spine bones collapsed .  . He wasn't able to feel anything from below his ribs. He was taken to the hospital for first aid treatment ...After a short  treatment , the hospital administration sent him out.Don't know why !
    The company that was in charge of the entire lift project declined that Habirur Rahman worked for them and they cannot offer help. The sub-contract company that he worked for, gave only Rs .2000  and said they can't do more. So his family and friends are trying to get him to a hospital in Kottayam in Kerala for further treatment. Meanwhile he is staying in a Riyadh baddha - aljazeera hospital room with the help of Br.Shihab and Kerala association
    Br.Habib Rahman has three sisters. His family , being poor ,he took the responsibility of three sisters'  wedding  and everything .Now he himself is in a very bad condition.
    So please if you could help with anything ,Allah SWT will reward you immensely. His family is trying to fly him in  Air India ( with wheel chair assistance because he cannot sit ) to Cochin and then to Kottayam. It is definitely going to cost a lot.
    So whatever your help would be , send them to imthias@imthias.com. We'll send them to concerned person as soon as possible.


Regards,
Imtiaz
Secretary 
Riyadh and Saudi Tamil Sangam
Chairman: Taffaraj
Phone - 0540753261

May Allah accept all our good deeds, Kindly find below the bank details, you may transfer to any of the bank below;

Saudi British Bank :  005-060520-101 IBAN : SA6645000000005060520101
Saudi Hollandi Bank : 032289448688 IBAN : SA09 5000 0000 0322 8944 8688
Al-Rajhi Bank : 166608010107787 IBAN : SA15 8000 0166 6080 1010 7787
Indian Bank : Name:  Aimthias Ahmed   (yes, No Spelling mistakes. This is the proper name.)
        Account number : A/C : 6134 0120 0541 NRO
        ICICI BANK, Thillai Nagar Branch, Trichy
        Branch Code: 006134
        MICR Code: 620229004
ICICI ACCOUNT HOLDER NAME: Abdul Rahman Imthias Ahmed

Name :

InshaAllah I shall handover the money to the concerns.
Best Regards,
Ahmed Imthias
imthias@imthias.com
 +966540753261

Contact Person in India:
Name: Mohamed Sheikh Farook (Patient's Father)
Account Number: 1109101037051   
Bank:Canara Bank, Melapalayam Branch  
Tirunelveli-627005
Tamil Nadu, INDIA.

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Dannon Flavored Yogurts are just not Haram, but have inedible ingredients too..!!

The daycare provider that my kids goto said that they love Dan-O-Ninos and hence asked me to supply them for snack times. Though I had already instructed her to inform me about just any food they are eating which are not provided by me, I have to remind it again it seems...!! Anyway, thinking that Dan-O-Ninos are kosher gelatin based, I searched in net but found confusing statements. I thought to give them a call and a mail. Result, Had to file a BBB complaint against them now. Why? Here's the reply mail. Note down the highlighted sentence. I ask, How dare they add a inedible ingredient in baby food??????????????

-x-x-x-

-x-x-x-

April 11, 2012

Anisha,

Thank you for contacting the Dannon Company concerning Gelatin.  The gelatin used in our products provides the proper consistency and texture for the blended style yogurts.  It is certified K Kosher because it is derived from the pure, inedible collagen of beef hide.  If you cannot eat the animal gelatin, I would suggest that you would try one of our traditional yogurts: Plain, Oikos or Lowfat Flavored, which do not contain any gelatin.

Current Dannon Flavored Yogurt Flavors (6oz)
Vanilla
Lemon
Coffee

Current Dannon Flavored Yogurt Flavors (32 oz)
Vanilla

Current Dannon Oikos Flavors (5.3oz)
Plain
Strawberry
Blueberry
Vanilla
Honey
Peach
Black Cherry

Current Dannon Oikos Traditional Flavors (5.3oz)
Strawberry
Key Lime
Raspberry

Current Dannon Oikos Flavors (32oz)
Plain
Vanilla

Current Dannon Plain Yogurts (assorted sizes)
32 oz Lowfat Plain
6 oz Lowfat Plain
32 oz Nonfat Plain
6 oz Nonfat Plain
32 oz Natural Fullfat Plain Yogurt

Current Dannon Activia Yogurts
24 oz Activia Plain

Dannon DanActive and Dannon Dan-o-nino do not contain any gelatin.

We appreciate your interest in our products and are always available to answer any questions or concerns that you have. If you have any additional questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to call our toll-free number 1-877-DANNON-US (1-877-326-6668), Monday through Friday, 9 A.M. to 6 P.M. Eastern Time.

Best Regards,


Lisa Moore
Consumer Response Representative
1-877-DANNON-US (1-877-326-6668)
(Mon-Fri, 9AM - 6PM ET)
Ref#:1428401N

============================Thanks Dannon,  =============================

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On dhikr morning and evening

--Riyad as-Salihin (The Meadows of the Righteous)

---by Imam Nawawi

248. Chapter: On dhikr morning and evening

Allah says, "Remember your Lord in yourself humbly and fearfully, without loudness of voice, morning and evening (âsâl). Do not be among the heedless," (7:205) and linguists say that âsâl is the plural of asîl and is the time between 'Asr and Maghrib.
Allah says, "Glorify your Lord before the rising of the sun and before its setting," (W20:128; H20:130)
and He says, "Glorify your Lord with praise in the evening ('ashi) and the early morning." (40:55)
and linguists says that 'ashi is between the decline of the sun and its setting. The Almighty says, "In houses which Allah has permitted to be built and in which His name is remembered, there are men who proclaim His glory morning," (W24:26; H24:36-37)
and the Almighty says, "We subjected the mountains to glorify with him in the evening and at sunrise." (W38:17; H38:18)

1451. Abu Hurayra reported that the Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said, "On the Day of Rising no one will bring anything better than someone who says in the morning and evening, 'Glory be to Allah and by His praise' a hundred times except someone who says the same as he says or more." [Muslim]

1452. Abu Hurayra said, "A man came to the Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, and said, 'Messenger of Allah, what agony I suffered last night from a scorpion which stung me yesterday!' He said, 'If you had said in the evening, "I seek refuge with the perfect words of Allah from the evil of what He has created," it would not have harmed you." [Muslim]

1453. Abu Hurayra stated that the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, used to say in the morning, "O Allah, by You we start the day and by You we end it, by You we live and by You we die and to You is the gathering." In the evening he would say. "O Allah, by You we end the day, by You we live and by You we die and to You is the gathering." [Abu Dawud and at-Tirmidhi]

1454. Abu Hurayra reported that Abu Bakr as-Siddiq said, "Messenger of Allah, tell me some words I can say in the morning and in the evening." He said, "Say, 'O Allah, Creator of the heavens and the earth, Knower of the Unseen and the Visible, Lord and Master of everything. I bear witness that there is no god but You. I seek refuge from you from the evil of my self and from the evil of Shaytan and his shirk.'" He said, "Say it in the morning and in the evening and when you go to bed." [Abu Dawud and at-Tirmidhi]

1455. Ibn Mas'ud said, "In the evening, the Prophet of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said, 'We have reached the evening and the kingdom has reached the evening by Allah. Praise belongs to Allah. There is no god but Allah alone with no partner," The transmitter said, "I think that he also said, 'His is the kingdom and His is the praise. He has power over everything. Lord, I ask you for the good of what is in this night and the good of what comes after it, and I seek refuge with You from the evil of what is in this night and the evil of what comes after it. Lord, I seek refuge with You from laziness and the evil of pride. Lord, I seek refuge with You from punishment in the Fire and punishment in the grave.'" In the morning, he also said, "We have reached the morning and the kingdom has reached the morning by Allah." [Abu Dawud and at-Tirmidhi]

1456. 'Abdullah ibn Khubayb said, "The Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said to me, 'Recite, "Say: He is God, One," and the suras of seeking refuge in the evening and the morning three times, it will be enough to protect you in respect of everything.'" [Abu Dawud and at-Tirmidhi]

1457. 'Uthman ibn 'Affan reported that the Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said, "No slave of Allah says in the morning every day and the evening every night, 'In the name of Allah by whose name nothing in the earth or the heaven can be harmed. He is the Hearing, the Knowing,' three times without that ensuring that nothing will harm him." [Abu Dawud and at-Tirmidhi]


.

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Sargento Cheese -- No animal enzymes

I am trying to find out all the cheese that is available in the market and has no animal enzymes. And the first of it's kind is Sargento which has non-animal enzymes in its cheese and the products which have animal enzymes are also listed at their site. Way to go...!!

Q. What is the source of the enzymes in your cheeses?

Rennets (enzymes) are added when making cheese to thicken the mixture to form the curds. These milk-clotting enzymes originate in microbial (synthetic) and animal sources. The manufacturing process of most varieties of cheese (all cured or ripened cheeses) involves enzyme coagulation.
Most Sargento shredded and sliced cheeses and all of our refrigerated natural cheese snacks are made with non-animal rennets. The only Sargento natural cheeses that may contain animal enzymes are those that contain Romano, Asiago, or Jarlsberg cheeses. Those include: Artisan Blends Shredded Parmesan & Romano Cheese, Shredded 6 Cheese Italian Cheese, Shredded Reduced Fat 4 Cheese Italian Cheese, and Deli Style Sliced Jarlsberg Cheese. The cheese dip in our non-refrigerated MooTown Snacks, Cheese Dip & Cracker Sticks, Cheese Dip & Pretzel Sticks, and Cheese Dip & Crackers, is made with beef rennet.

Q. Are Sargento products kosher?

No, our products aren’t kosher because their production isn’t supervised and certified by a rabbi. If, however, you’re asking about the sources of our enzymes, none of our products contain pork enzymes. In fact, the only Sargento natural cheeses that may contain animal enzymes are those that contain Romano, Asiago or Jarlsberg cheeses. Those include: Artisan Blends Shredded Parmesan & Romano Cheese, Shredded 6 Cheese Italian Cheese, Shredded Reduced Fat 4 Cheese Italian Cheese, and Deli Style Sliced Jarlsberg Cheese. The cheese dip in our non-refrigerated Sargento Snacks, Cheese Dip & Cracker Sticks, Cheese Dip & Pretzel Sticks, and Cheese Dip & Crackers, is made with beef rennet.

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Tips to Overcome the ‘Modern Hijab Syndrome'

Assalamu Alaikum!

Contrary to what some people assume, the following article is not telling women how to wear hijab, subhanAllah . That is not my place, nor anyone else’s. Only Allah tells us how we should behave and sent us Prophet Muhammad (sal Allahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) to explain it through his Sunnah. I have not written this with an intention to force the “right” way of hijab, but rather I have written this intending to educate our sisters through elaborating that some methods of wearing hijab these days are actually controversial to what the Qur’an and Sunnah state. My hope is for us to redefine how we wear the hijab so as to purify our intentions and thus our appearance will inshaAllah reflect our rectified intentions. My background information is solely based on the Qur’an, Sunnah, and Tafseer of Ibn Kathir. I also used some humor to lighten the mood, but to also put some emphasis on certain issues. Some people might find some points I made quite harsh and opinionated. In the end, I am not here to enforce anything, but rather I am here to simply advise my beautiful Muslim sisters.

Please continue to read this with an open mind; I am not judging anyone, I have my own flaws. May Allah forgive and bless us all.

Peace&Love,
Author. Serine Yamout

Sifting through photos of good times with your friends, you notice each one has a signature style of wrapping her hijab, color theme, and fashion. Think about the way you dress. Is it to please others? Or is it to please Allah?
Islam, the name of our beautiful religion, simply means “submission” to Allah alone. He is aware of our intentions, which must be aimed to be done for Him, simply due to that fact that He is our Creator and He has ordered it. As is said in the Qur’an,

“And He is Allah, [the only deity] in the heavens and earth. He knows your secret and what you make public, and He knows that which you earn .” (6:3)

This demonstrates how Allah knows what thoughts run through our minds and sees what presentation we put out for others, only emphasizing the importance of purifying our intentions, so that they match the purpose of how we represent ourselves on the outside.
How is the hijab supposed to be worn? Allah clearly illustrates how a woman should wear it properly in the Qur’an,

“And say to the believing women to lower their gazes, and to guard their private parts, and not to expose their beauty except what is apparent of it, and to extend their headcovers to cover their chests, and not to display their beauty except to their husbands, or their fathers, or their husband’s fathers, or their sons, or their husband’s sons, or their brothers, or their brothers’ sons, or their sisters’ sons, or their womenfolk, or what their right hands rule (slaves), or from the men who have no physical desire, or the small children who are not aware of the private aspects of women, and not to stomp their feet (on the ground) so as to make known what they hide of their adornments (jewelry). And turn to Allah in repentance together, Oh Believers, so that you may succeed.” (24:31)

Therefore, the front of our hijabs should come down low over our chests, not wrapped tight around our necks as is the current style. Imam Abu al-Fida ibn Kathir clarifies how and why:

“Extend their headcovers to cover their bosoms’ means that they should wear the headcover in such a way that they cover their chests so that they will be different from the women of the Jahiliyyah (time before Islam) who did not do that, but would pass in front of men with their chests uncovered and with their necks, forelocks, and earrings uncovered.”

This explanation also denounces three other current styles that have been prominent these days:
1. Naked Neck. Exposing the neck by pinning the scarf to the back was the exact way women before Islam wore their scarves. Some would even wear heavy and glittering jewelry around their necks to emphasize the look. Islam came to wash away the unnecessary customs and prohibit the harmful actions of our forefathers, so why reintroduce what Islam has already ruled against? Islam has ordered that our necks are considered part of what the hijab must cover, so please bring the ends of your scarf to the front of your neck if you do prefer to pin your scarf in the back. Or you could simply pin your scarf to the front under your chin and let the ends fall loosely over your neck.
2. Sneak Peak. The title given when hair bangs are allowed to fall out from under the scarf to the front over the foreheads and sometimes eyes. It’s grown pretty common to have the bangs styled, cut, and highlighted just so that they have a pleasant appearance when they ‘accidentally’ fall out of the scarf. We see the photos of models for clothing lines everywhere. If the model doesn’t have her hair tied back, then her bangs are falling over her eyes, giving her a seductive look. With that said, it’s easy to keep bangs from slipping by wearing headbands or hairclips, which can be found at the super market. Undercap-pieces specifically designed to be worn under a scarf can be used to keep the bangs from falling out as well.
3. Dumbo Ears. This happens when ears and earrings are peeking out from the sides. Earrings are flashy in general, and in this specific case, the earrings are usually huge and sparkly. There is no other intention for displaying earrings outside the scarf besides wanting to add a more attractive look to what is worn. Tuck them in please.

I am now going to highlight a few more unneeded styles of today to the list.
4. Conehead. This can be achieved by wearing a cushion above the head or ponytail and wrapping the scarf over it. Other styles include adding a large flower to the top or intricately twisting the scarf into a bun and pinning it to the side. Just don’t do it. All it does is create a sign above the head displaying the words “Check Me Out!”
5. The Drop-Top Scarf. The scarf simply slips off to the shoulders whenever it gets too tired at the top and exposes luscious locks of hair. Wear a scarf with not-so-silky material that would have more friction and prevent it to come loose or slip. Pinning the scarf at the top or side is usually helpful too.
6. Speedo Body Suit. This look occurs when skinny jeans, tights, or body-shirts are worn. It also takes place whenever other clothes, such as dresses, are skin-tight as if they’ve been painted on. This image completely contradicts the whole standard of modesty, which is the purpose of hijab. What the woman is doing is putting her figure on display. Even if a long blouse is worn on top of the body-shirt and skinny jeans to cover her chest and thighs, her arms and shins are still emphasized. Looser clothing should be worn instead.
7. The Clown. Eyeshadow, colored lipstick, blush, and foundation are all products of the make-up industry. However, we’re all already beautiful products of Allah’s creation, so why use tools of society to demean ourselves in the process of submitting to what society claims should be beautiful? Put them away. If people don’t appreciate the way Allah created you, then they don’t deserve your efforts to abide by their judgments.
The reason this advice is being repeated is for the simple fact that we as those who cover, are not only representing ourselves, but the entire population of Muslim women who wear hijab. So if we don’t wear it properly as stated in the Qur’an and displayed in the Sunnah, then we would be giving those who are not educated in Islam and hijab the wrong image of how it should be worn. We must always be conscious of our appearances and actions, since we carry the image of our Ummah. This is a call to remind yourselves and I, that we are responsible for how others perceive us if we may be at fault for dressing inappropriately. Besides that, we would be letting ourselves down when we declare Allah as our Lord as we recite the Shahadah every time we pray, but the way we may be dressing is the exact opposite of what comes out of our mouth?
Basically, the easiest way I think of it when getting dressed is: Keep it simple, Serine.

Whatever I have said that is correct comes from Allah, and if I have made any mistakes, then I take full accountability and ask Allah to forgive me.

Courtesy: Sis.YM.

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CheeseCake Factory-- Halal??

Peace be upon you dear readers,
Please be advised that every branch / franchisee may have their own ingredients / suppliers. And hence please write / call to your local branch before you try any of their products. In that way, insha Allah you can be more close to the Truth. Jazakumullaahu Khayr.


wa Salam.

=========== Email response from Cheesecake factory branch of Smyrna, Georgia============
Dear Ms. Yunus:

Thank you for your interest in The Cheesecake Factory. Several of our cheesecakes do contain animal gelatin. The majority of those use beef gelatin however, two contain pork gelatin; our 30th Anniversary Chocolate Cake Cheesecake and our Lemoncello Cream Torte.

As with most high end pastries and desserts, we have chosen products containing gelatin over products containing a host of gums and artificial additives. Gelatin is not added directly to any of our desserts, rather it is a sub ingredient in one of the essential ingredients in these cakes. The amount would be considered trace.

We are searching for and testing ingredients that contain neither however, at this time a suitable substitution has not been found. In the interim, I have provided a list below for our cakes which do contain gelatin. I hope that this information is helpful and will allow you to continue to enjoy our wonderful desserts.

Original Cheesecake
Fresh Strawberry Cheesecake
Cherry Cheesecake
Brownie Sundae Cheesecake
Godiva Cheesecake
Vanilla Bean Cheesecake
Kahlua Cocoa Coffee Cheesecake
Key Lime Cheesecake
Dulce De Leche Caramel Cheesecake
Low Carb Cheesecake
Dutch Apple Caramel Streusel
White Chocolate Caramel Macadamia Nut Cheesecake
Wild Blueberry White Chocolate Cheesecake
Ultimate Red Velvet Cake Cheesecake

Hershey's Chocolate Bar Cheesecake
Lemoncello Cream Torte
30th Anniversary Chocolate Cake Cheesecake

Sincerely,

Mariana Lopez
Guest Services Coordinator

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Kelloggs -- Haram ingredients

Hi,

Thank you for your inquiry regarding gelatin used in Kellogg's® Pop-Tarts® Frosted Strawberry toaster pastries. We are glad you contacted us and we are happy to provide you with this information. Please note that this information applies only to products distributed in the U.S.

Gelatin derived from beef is found in Kellogg's® Pop-Tarts® Frosted Strawberry toaster pastries and all varieties of Kellogg's® Frosted Pop-Tarts®, Kellogg's® Frosted Mini-Wheats® cereal, and Kellogg's® Rice Krispies Treats™ cereal. None of the equipment that comes in contact with the gelatin in Kellogg's® Frosted Pop-Tarts® is used in the production of the other pastries. As a result, Plain (unfrosted) Kellogg's® Pop-Tarts® do not contain gelatin. The pre-gelatinized wheat starch contained in some of our toaster pastries is derived from wheat and does not contain any gelatin.

Gelatin derived from pork is found in Kellogg's® cereal products that co ntain marshmallow additives, for example Kellogg's® Marshmallow Froot Loops cereal and Kellogg's Smorz® cereal. It is also found in all varieties of Kellogg's® Rice Krispies Treats® Squares and Special K® Protein Snack Bars.

Again, thank you for contacting us. We appreciate your loyal use of our products and hope that this provides you with the information you need to make food choices appropriate for you and your family.


Sincerely,


Amanda Carreon
Consumer Specialist
Consumer Affairs

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Inspired by Islam - New Video

as Salamu alaykum,

I have always wanted to have such a video like this. When I saw some similar videos from other faiths rolled out in the net, I wished very sincerely and we have it live now. First of its kind of series... :))

Masha Allah. Allahu Akbar. Allahu Akbar. :))

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Friday post..!!

.

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Pl Vote for Islamic Schools in US.

Pl vote for Islamic Schools in US.
Link -- http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/43331744/ns/us_news-life

Peace.

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Friday Post...!!!

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Friday Post...!!!

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Youth For Japan - Brothers and Sisters - Join HHRD and earn rewards :)

Youth for Japan   Helping Hand USA Picture Gallery   YOUTH FOR JAPAN: LIBYA RELIEF:   Assalaamu Alaykum WaRahmatullahi WaBarakatahu, The 9.0 Richter scale earthquake caused 16,000+ deaths and over 300,000+ people displaced. Youth for Japan will be a similar program to Youth for Haiti. College students between the ages or 18 – 25 will visit the earthquake/tsunami affected areas of Japan. They will participate in relief activities and help in relief activities abroad. There will be 2 batches: Brothers Batch: July 9th – July 16th, 2011 [Deadline: June 16th, 2011] Sisters Batch: July 23rd – July 30th 19th, 2011 [Deadline: June 23rd, 2011] Program: Volunteers will: Serve hot meals to displaced earthquake victims. Participate in relief campaign. Interacting with Japanese students and get a chance to teach them English. Youth will volunteer alongside supervised professionals. For further details about the Youth for Japan program and to apply please visit Youth for Japan. -HHRD Team   "Borders of Libya" As the refugees from borders of Libya are pouring into Tunisia, more help is needed to privde them with food, basic necessities and medical relief. "Medical Doctors, Pharmacists and Nurses" Helping Hand for Relief and Development is look for medical professional; Medical Doctors, Pharmacists and Nurses. For more information, please contact Ilyas Choudry at (832) 275-0786. To donate towards Libya Relief please visit, www.hhrd.org.

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