Times of Our Lives

I, buying a Quran from a shopkeeper.

I: Show me Quran with translation.
Him: I only have one Quran with translation and the rest without it.
I: Why?
Him: Nobody buys Quran with translation these days.


How Awesome.

25:30 - And the messenger said: "My Lord, my people have deserted this Qur'an."

Qisas and Diya - In Quran

Qisas is a very important aspect in Islam and specifically its implementation in the society. The real life example of it is being played out currently in Shah Rukh Jatoi and Shahzeb murder case in Pakistan. You can read the details here. To summarize: Shah Rukh Jatoi's servant teased Shahzeb's sister in a wedding, their altercation led to escalation and finally Shahzeb being shot dead by Shahrukh Jatoi. There was great hue and cry in Pakistan in 2012 since its very common in Pakistan for influentials to get away with murders by 'paying' the victims family, as an out of court settlement. The Supreme Court of Pakistan took suo muo notice. It was in media everywhere. The criminal remained behind bars but the case could not see culmination. The Anti Terrorism Court (ATC) did convict him (terrorism clauses were added in case) but it went into the appeal process. 

Up until now that is.

The lawyers successfully argued for the criminal that since he was a juvenile (he was not) when he committed the crime so terrorism clauses cannot be applied to him. A court ruled in their favour and thus only murder charges were left against Shahrukh. Then, the usual happened. The victim's family 'pardoned' the killer 'in the name of God', the court was accordingly informed about the agreement between the two parties and Shahrukh was released today on bail. 

This has become a repeat scenario. Influential people with money and links, kill someone and then force the victim's family for 'pardon' by settling out of court. The victim's family cannot naturally bear the brunt of this situation alongside threats of these influential people and in the end reach out of court settlement and get released. Its the abuse of the law and religion but its so rampant that one feels totally helpless.

Qisas and Diya in Quran

First thing first. How does Quran treat a murder?

For intentional murder...  

2:178: O you who acknowledge, equivalent execution (qisas) has been decreed for you in the cases of killings: the free for the free, the slave for the slave, and the female for the female. Whoever is forgiven anything by his brother, then it is to be followed with good deeds and kindness towards him; that is alleviation from your Lord, and a mercy. Whoever transgresses after that, he will have a painful retribution.

and for unintentional murder...

4:92: And it is not for a believer to kill another believer except by accident. And whoever kills a believer by accident, then he shall free a believing slave, and give compensation (diya) to the family; except if they remit it. If he was from a people who are enemies to you, and he was a believer, then you shall free a believing slave. And if he was from a people with whom you have a covenant, then a compensation to his family, and free a believing slave. Whoever does not find, then the fasting of two months sequentially as a repentance from God; for God is Knowledgeable, Wise.

The State and Murder

It is argued that that homicide and unintentional homicide are considered to be an inter-party dispute in Islam and the state does not get involved in it if the parties decide to settle between themselves. I don't know where this comes from  but it does not make any sense at all. Perhaps the wording involved in it is perpetrator-victim's family specific which somehow indicates that the state will not get involved but its not the case at all. 

Quran no where states the 'Roles and Responsibility of a state'. Consider for example the issue where it asks for establishment of justice but does not ask for establishment of courts. Quran nowhere states establishment of a government, parliament, court or police - it states the basic principles and leaves the implementation of it unexplained. Why? for obvious reasons that every culture and society will find ways to implement these measures one way or the other and the establishment of a state has proved to be that mechanism where a collective will of people is established. So if a crime has been committed, then the 'state' machinery 'police' is used to arrest the parties involved, investigate the case, argue the case in 'court' by hiring 'state prosecutors' who plead in front of 'judges'. The 'court' then decides the matter and the convict is sent to 'jail' based on a 'law' devised by 'parliament'. Notice anything about where I am putting quotation marks? these are all roles devised by the collective will of the people manifested in the form of State. 

The argument that settlement of murder case is between parties involved is clearly missing the broader objective - missing the forest for the trees literally. So what is it that Quran is telling us whereas we get to face such ridiculous situations where influentials go scot-free?

Capital Punishment in Quran
In such hostile environment of today's wherein Islam and Quran are blamed for all the mess in the world, the following statement will be considered a shocker. 'Quran is Pro Life!' Yup. Unbelievable right?

Lets re-cap qisas (equivalent execution/ a just retribution) by going through another verse of Quran.

5:45: And We have decreed for them in it that a life for a life, and an eye for an eye, and a nose for a nose, and an ear for an ear, and a tooth for a tooth, and wounds to be similar; and whoever remits anything of it, then it will cancel sins for him. And whoever does not judge with what God has sent down, then these are the wicked.

Quran focuses on forgiveness and considers it to be laudable act. But It still has a broader objective set for society:

2:179: Through equivalent execution, you will be protecting life, O you who possess intelligence, that you may be righteous.

See? Quran is against capital punishment and is pro-life. As of today, more than 150 countries have abolished the death penalty. Pakistan still supports death penalty. If we really believe in Quran, should we not be following it?

State and Murder - Revisited

So what can the State do in light of the discussion above? First and foremost, do not absolve itself of the duty of protecting the victim's family. Yes the victims have the right to pardon the murderer but only for 'life for life' - meaning thereby that the murderer will not face death penalty. Secondly, the State can devise law to incarcerate the murderer for whole life behind bars. Thirdly, the State needs to abolish capital punishment - because no matter how much we do not like this fact, the murderer's life needs protection as well. And finally, put Shahrukh behind bars because of obvious horror of horrors that an influential bought himself out of the murder.

God have mercy on all of us.

Does Prayer Stop Misdeeds?

 Recently, the Governor of an Indonesian province ordered government servants to offer prayers together so as to discourage them from cheating on spouses. This caused a ruckus amongst commenters online. Does prayer (salat) really save one from doing misdeeds?

Quran says so: 29:45 - ... and hold the contact prayer; for the contact prayer prohibits evil and vice ...

Would prayers really help in the case when people are ordered to pray? Let's examine.

We used to have a neighbour who was very religious. He was part of a religious outfit called Tableeghi Jamaat. He used to gather people to take them along to mosque for prayers and religious sermons. He had 2 sign-of-prayers (mehraab) on his forehead. And he was a drug smuggler. But I agree. Individual acts cannot be termed as applicable to the whole population.

Religious seminaries in Pakistan, called Medressah, are nortorious for phsyical and to some extreme, sexual abuse of children. Now these are men of the scripture, they eat and drink religious sermons. They pray together too. So why did prayers not stop them for committing such atrocities against children?

You might argue that there might be black sheep amongst the people and they portray a bad reputation of Medressahs, which is not actually the case. I agree. Honestly I do.

A group of religious scholars comes up with an Islamic financial instrument based scheme and swindle out people to the tune of 5-6 billion PKR. Now this is not the case of ordinary people becoming teachers in Medressah and doing their misdeeds. They are religious scholars who actually guide people to do good deeds. And they pray too.

You might argue again that criminals in the garb of religious scholars do not constitute as such. They are criminals and need to be treated as such. Even a non-religious person could have done that as well. I agree to this too. I swear by God I do.

We have Taliban in our country who claim to be the purest, and really really purest of us all. They pray and they kill. They slaughter in the name of God. There are some really badass Taliban in our midst even though they perform ablution. They pray too. They even prey on prayer goers in mosques.

Do you see the point of stating these examples? That anyone can do any of the misdeeds whether you pray or not pray. Apparently, that does not have an effect. Is Prayer the answer or is there something about the prayer itself?

107:4 - Ah, woe to the praying ones!
107:5 - Those who know not what their prayer is meant to be
107:6 - They only want to be seen and praised.

So what is a person doing when he is actually praying but only to show off? He has not God on his mind... but his wordly desires.

45:23 - Have you ever noted him who makes his desires his god? Consequently, God lets him go astray despite his knowledge, seals up his hearing and his heart, and places a veil on his sight ...

Take a look around, you see loads and loads of people thronging mosques for prayers. You see more and more people in religiouis attire. Beards are common. There are dedicated religious channels. Ramazan feels like the whole universe is fasting. But deep down, something is amiss. There is moral degradation. Women, children and minorities are not safe - my apologies, let me rephrase - 'No one is safe'. Purity of the heart is missing and till that time, no matter how many times you pray or the Governor of a particular province of Indonesia wishes, nothing is going to change. Yes the prayer will help, just as stated in Quran at the start of this blog, but only for those who wish to be saved from misdeeds.

Verse 2:223 - Women and 'Tilth'

In my previous post, 'Faith, Rationality and Consequences', I had discussed about a controversial verse of Quran in which, allegedly, the women are to be treated as 'tilth'. Antagonists argue that this demeaning verse sets the tone for blanket exploitation of women commonly visible in Islamic societies all over the world.


The Quranic verse is this.


2:223 -  Your wives are as a tilth unto you; so approach your tilth when or how ye will; but do some good act for your souls beforehand; and fear Allah. And know that ye are to meet Him (in the Hereafter), and give (these) good tidings to those who believe. 


Now per se, there is nothing sinister in this verse nor admirable. Things come to open when one comes to the nitty gritty of it. Three possible interpretation of this verse are as follows:

 Interpretation 1 - The verse means just as it says, your wives are a tilth for men. Good for producing only babies and nothing else. A man is to do what a bull would do in a field. 

 Interpretation 2 - Reference to 'tilth' is being given since for a farmer, the tilth is the most precious thing to cherish. It provides him with bounty and protection. Unless and until the farmer invests his sweat and blood in it, he is not getting respect from the his tilth.

 Interpretation 3 - This relates more to  the context in which the verse was supposedly revealed. Some say that people used to ask how should they 'do' their wives and in came the clarification that the intercourse has to vaginal and not anal. 'tilth', 'produce'... dig?

Now what on earth does this verse mean. If you are an antagonist, you will definitely go for the first interpretation and you would cite the issues of 'a man can have 4 wives and a woman cannot' (No you can't) and 'man is allowed to have sex slaves' (no he can not) as your arguments. Basic idea being that since Islam treats women as secondary so the conclusion of this verse is fairly easy to see.


Then there is another side of the story as well. Quran says:


30:21 - And among His Signs is this, that He created for you mates from among yourselves, that ye may dwell in tranquillity with them, and He has put love and mercy between your (hearts): verily in that are Signs for those who reflect. 


and...


2:182 - ... They are your garments and ye are their garments...


If spousal relationship means tranquility, love and mercy and both of them are like garments to each other, 'tilth' would make all the more sense. You can not do without each other. People argue that why the reference of tilth is given? This means that women have to be in the 'ownership' of a man, nothing by themselves and require a man to be of any good value. Further, when a tilth becomes infertile, it will be abandoned.


Quite frankly I don't know why the reference of tilth was given. If I were a God or had god-like powers, I would have been screwing around a lot instead of sending books for reforms. But then that is just me. Some might say that by just screwing around I would already be following the job description of god. The main thing, I think, is to note that its not the object in that reference that matters rather the relationship of those objects referred. Take the example for 'garments'. Both men and women are referred to being garments of each other. A garment, too, is nothing by itself and requires ownership to be of any value but when it comes to what it signifies... then it means protection, covering, privacy, intimacy etc. So tilth has to be viewed in that respect and not just object per se.


So to conclude, this verse is really open ended. I would not be surprised if the antagonists point out the meanness of this verse. Perhaps all the cruelty done to women in islamic societies is due to this verse. I on the other hand, an adherent to this scripture, see the positive side of this verse. The million dollar question being - what interpretation would you chose if you were an adherent of this scripture? Go for the compassionate verve or be a bull in tilth? The choice is totally yours. Perhaps this verse is a mirror.. shows whats inside you.


Peace.


P.S: I ain't a saint.

Can You Touch The Quran When Unclean?

There is this very common notion that one should not touch the Quran when one is unclean. Unclean in general terms would mean not being in the state of ablution or more specifically in case of women, if they are menstruating.

Is it really the case? Lets first start from the verse that actually informs us so.

Quran 56:79 - (the book) Which  none shall touch but those who are clean:

As always, one should check the context of the verses. 

56:75 - I call to witness the setting of the Stars
56:76 - And that is indeed a mighty oath if ye but knew
56:77 - That this is indeed a qur'an Most Honourable, 
56:78 - In Book well-guarded, 
56:79 - Which none shall touch but those who are clean: 
56:80 - A Revelation from the Lord of the Worlds. 

A cursory reading would show that a macro perspective is being discussed in which the God (as is the case with this Chapter), is narrating His favours and trying to impress upon the readers to understand the greatness of Quran. It does not show that muslims are not allowed to touch Quran when impure. Compare this to specific instructions of God in case of offering prayers.

4:43 - O ye who believe! Approach not prayers with a mind befogged, until ye can understand all that ye say,- nor in a state of ceremonial impurity (Except when travelling on the road), until after washing your whole body. If ye are ill, or on a journey, or one of you cometh from offices of nature, or ye have been in contact with women, and ye find no water, then take for yourselves clean sand or earth, and rub therewith your faces and hands. For Allah doth blot out sins and forgive again and again. 

So one can see that when God says that only clean can touch Quran, it means that those who have pure heart and thoughts can understand it. Its the impurity of hearts and minds that is the subject and not otherwise. Suppose that I am wrong and indeed the verse is talking of being in a state of cleanliness when touching Quran, the following should follow:

If you can not touch the Quran then you can not utter the wording of Quran. Quran is not about being paper and ink right? the words in it matter. Since you cannot utter words of Quran, this means you can not recite Quran when unclean. This follows that since you can not recite Quran, so the name of the entity who sent it, should also be not taken because you are unclean. 

Does this makes any sense? Of course not. 

You take the name of God in any state. You can not help it. When you can take the name of entity who sent this Quran and Who mentions Himself all over in it, why cant you recite it? If you can recite it then why cant you hold or touch it? Remember what I said? Its not about paper and ink that matters most.

So do not be the one restricting yourself (and others) in touching or reciting the Quran when no where God intends to or said so. 


Peace


Related Post
- Menstruation and Religious Duties

Is Adoption Allowed In Islam?

Frankly, I was startled by this statement that Islam does not allow adoption. This is so strange, why would Islam do that? Such a novel act of taking in a human being in your folds, caring and protecting him/ her and then raising them to be the productive members of the society - at least in intention if not in reality. Does Islam totally prohibit that? does it place restrictions on it? What is really going on, I asked myself and then set about making myself understand it.

The verse that deals with 'prohibition' of adoption is as follows.

33:4 - Allah has not made for any man two hearts in his (one) body: nor has He made your wives whom ye divorce by Zihar your mothers: nor has He made your adopted sons your sons. Such is (only) your (manner of) speech by your mouths. But Allah tells (you) the Truth, and He shows the (right) Way.

33:5 - Call them by (the names of) their fathers: that is juster in the sight of Allah. But if ye know not their father's (names, call them) your Brothers in faith, or your maulas. But there is no blame on you if ye make a mistake therein: (what counts is) the intention of your hearts: and Allah is Oft-Returning, Most Merciful.

Mere reading of these verses does not suggest that adoption is not allowed. Quran is alluding to a certain issue. For example, when it says  'nor has He made your wives whom ye divorce by Zihar your mothers', it is alluding to a custom wherein the husband who wanted his wife divorced equated her to 'being like his mother' - meaning she is no more treated his wife.

Something similar is being mentioned with regards to adopted children but it is not clear. Lets explore some more. The next verse mentions that the adopted children should be called by their father's name. Still, no explicit prohibition on adoption but one can see that the name of father is being given importance. But what for? Whats in a name?

When Quran talks about adopted children, it talks in terms of Orphans^*1 because that is most likely scenario to occur. Couple of things to discuss here. First is the notion that since adoption is not allowed so it follows that the adopted child will not be able to inherit. This is not the case if we are to read Quran.

4:7 -  From what is left by parents and those nearest related there is a share for men and a share for women, whether the property be small or large,-a determinate share.

4:8 -  But if at the time of division other relatives, or orphans or poor, are present, feed them out of the (property), and speak to them words of kindness and justice.

So orphans can have a share in inheritance as well and if you mention it in the form of a will - even better, because Quran stresses importance of having a will to decide inheritance matters. ^*2

You can argue that the verse is simply stating orphans and not adopted children. I will not refute your assertion but at least it shows you can give your inheritance to anyone - no restriction on 'adopted children'. Of course Quran focuses a lot on justice and being compassionate.

That was on side of the coin. How about if the adopted child had some property? Could it be that Quran is talking of this? Lets read further.

2:220 -  ... They ask thee concerning orphans. Say: "The best thing to do is what is for their good; if ye mix their affairs with yours, they are your brethren; but Allah knows the man who means mischief from the man who means good. And if Allah had wished, He could have put you into difficulties: He is indeed Exalted in Power, Wise."

17:34 - Come not nigh to the orphan's property except to improve it, until he attains the age of full strength; and fulfil (every) engagement, for (every) engagement will be enquired into (on the Day of Reckoning).

4:2 - To orphans restore their property (When they reach their age), nor substitute (your) worthless things for (their) good ones; and devour not their substance (by mixing it up) with your own. For this is indeed a great sin.

4:5 - To those weak of understanding Make not over your property, which Allah hath made a means of support for you, but feed and clothe them therewith, and speak to them words of kindness and justice.

When Quran discusses orphans as adopted children, it focuses more on protection of their rights. One has to be extremely careful in dealing with orphans properties because according to Allah that is one grave mistake.

4:10 - Those who unjustly eat up the property of orphans, eat up a Fire into their own bodies: They will soon be enduring a Blazing Fire!

So one can see that when Quran talks about adopted children 'not really being your children', it states in terms of not eating up their property and preserving their rights. The issues of adopted children not being part of inheritance, as you have seen, is not the context of Quranic verse - and you can give them share of inheritance. So adoption is totally allowed in Islam but it impresses upon you to maintain their lineage so as to not encroach upon their rights - hence the name of their fathers as reference. I am open to discussion.

Peace.


*1 - Quran also talks of adopted child in another scenario wherein it allows marriage to divorced wife of adopted son. (Quran 33:37)

*2 - 2:180 - It is prescribed, when death approaches any of you, if he leave any goods that he make a bequest to parents and next of kin, according to reasonable usage; this is due from the Allah-fearing.

72 Virgins - II

A discussion that veered off the topic and ended up on '72 Virgins'. There is this general notion regarding Islam, in muslims and non-muslims alike, that one gets 72 virgins in heaven. This is especially referred when suicide bombers and 'reward' for them in religion of Islam is discussed. I'll post a small section of this dialogue to show what is the 'general' attitude and then will state my opinion on it.
--------------
He: Why don't you choose heaven? there must be 70 virgins waiting for you in heaven who look better then Vidya Balan.Its a strange choice.

I: 70?! I thought types like you got 72?!

He: 72 extra virgin sir why would i get extra two?

I: because you deserve them? :)

He: Thank s Postman. wow my 72 virgins in heaven. You deserve more then 72 u deserve a hundred virgins in heaven.

I: Na I think I'll pass :p
I don't have that strength to 'deal' with so many :p

He: OO come on postman when will enter heaven u will eat fresh food of heaven and breath in fresh air of heaven and then u will get strenght to deal with more then 100.

I: really?! damn :p
------------
Quran never says 'females', 'hoors as in females', 'virgins' in Quran. It only says 'pure companions' Azwajjum mutaharat. e.g.

2:25 - But give glad tidings to those who believe and work righteousness, that their portion is Gardens, beneath which rivers flow. Every time they are fed with fruits therefrom, they say: "Why, this is what we were fed with before," for they are given things in similitude; and they have therein companions pure (and holy); and they abide therein (for ever).

Pure companions for Males and Females - both. So I do not think you should look purely from 'sex' point of view. For example.

37:45 - A bowl shall be made to go round them from water running out of springs,
37:46 - White, delicious to those who drink.
37:47 - There shall be no trouble in it, nor shall they be exhausted therewith.
37:48 - And with them shall be those (companions) who restrain the eyes, having beautiful eyes

and there is no mention of 70 or 72 virgins in Quran. If its males that will 'enjoy' virgins then the same will be applied to females :p

The Quran talks in terms of bounties and gifts - pure in nature. Nothing vile, evil or ill associated with them.

47:15 - A parable of the garden which those guarding (against evil) are promised: Therein are rivers of water that does not alter, and rivers of milk the taste whereof does not change, and rivers of drink delicious to those who drink, and rivers of honey clarified and for them therein are all fruits and protection from their Lord.

52:23 - They shall pass therein from one to another a cup (of drink) wherein there shall be nothing vain nor any sin.

So 'companions' are a pure gift - nothing like virgin sexual slaves in heaven for the 'righteous'. And the words that Quran uses are parables e.g. Verse 37:48 uses the terms 'qasirat tut-tarfe aye-nun' which literally means 'those who restrain the eyes, having beautiful eyes;' - nothing specific to females. Yes I know translators usually translate it in respect of females but this is not so. Sura Rehman uses the same wording 'qasirat tut-tarfe':

55:56 - In them shall be those who restrained their eyes; before them neither human nor jinni shall have touched them.


Must Read : Wikipedia on Etymology of Huur and Wikipedia on references in Quran

Peace

Related Posts
- 72 Virgins

Prophet Muhammad vs Ghazi Ilam Din

Who do you like the most? Prophet Muhammad or Ghazi Ilam din shaheed? (Ghazi was the person who killed the publisher of the book considered blasphemous by muslims in 1929). If your answer is Prophet Muhammad... think again.

Ok. Tell me. is Islam peaceful? If the treatment to non-muslims in Pakistan is to be believed.. then Hell No!

But first, I want to congratulate my muslim brethren on murdering the 7 infidel christians in Gojra in the past couple of days. I also felicitate them on killing 2 more yesterday in Muridke on charges of blasphemy. Excellent work indeed.

Now coming back to the my initial question. presenting my first case.

As a student, we used to study and hear this story about Prophet Muhammad. At the start of his preaching of Islam in Mecca, he went to an area called Ta'aif. We are told that he was cursed and thrown stones at. So much he had to endure that his slippers were soaked in his blood. Still he did not say a word to them and actually prayed for their blessing.

Compare this to my second case. Ghazi Ilam Din was a very ordinary muslim. In 1929, he heard a religious scholar talking about a person who had written a book against Prophet Muhammad. This enraged the young man and upon inquiries it was revealed that the publisher was based in Lahore. Ghazi killed the publisher of this book and for which he was hanged.

If you think that you would adopt the way of the Prophet then you are obviously wrong. You wont. You will go the path of Ghazi Ilam Din and beat the crap out of everyone. Just as we did in case of those infamous cartoons that were published in Denmark.

7:199 - Hold to forgiveness; command what is right; But turn away from the ignorant.

Well No Sir! Who cares what Quran says! We know the best way to deal with those scum bags! Frankly, Quran talks trash when it says..

16:125 - Invite (all) to the Way of thy Lord with wisdom and beautiful preaching; and argue with them in ways that are best and most gracious: for thy Lord knoweth best, who have strayed from His Path, and who receive guidance.

See. God does not understand what He is talking about. We muslims know way better how to defend Islam! We even have a specific blasphemy law in Pakistan. Under Section 295-C of the Pakistan Penal Code anyone can be sentenced to death of found guilty of it. Psst. we rather prefer burning and killing religious minorities in Pakistan on this one without court proceedings cuz hey.. we also have to do other work too! Who can take time out for judicial course to take its time?

Trust me.. Not even God can stop this madness that we Pakistanis are afflicted with. We are more on path of Ghazi Ilam Din than Prophet Muhammad.

Menstruation and Religious Duties

:)


Funny topic eh? Appears so... but it is not.


Ask any muslim woman whether she performs religious duty (say prayers) while she is menstruating and she will reply 'No'. The common knowledge is that the state of menstruation is 'unclean' so one has to stay away from religious duties. To approach them one requires 'cleanliness and purity' so when she is menstruating, its good-bye prayers, fasting, pilgrimage etc. This prevents women from performing their religious duties even if they want to. How is it possible that you and God are incommunicado for 5-6 days? If HE is the creator, HE should have seen this coming!


The only trouble for me is.. that it is no where mentioned in the Quran that a woman is not allowed to say her prayers when she is menstruating. Yes menstruation is mentioned in Quran but its only in the context of sexual intercourse and that it should not be done.


2:222 - they ask thee concerning women's courses. Say: They are a hurt and a pollution: So keep away from women in their courses, and do not approach them until they are clean. But when they have purified themselves, ye may approach them in any manner, time, or place ordained for you by Allah.

Now one would assume that since menstruation is 'unclean' so naturally prayers are out of question. Interestingly, the verse that mentions the preparatory phase of prayers also includes the 'state' wherein a prayer is not allowed - and that does not mention menstruation.


05:06 - O ye who believe! when ye prepare for prayer, wash your faces, and your hands (and arms) to the elbows; Rub your heads (with water); and (wash) your feet to the ankles. If ye are in a state of ceremonial impurity, bathe your whole body. But if ye are ill, or on a journey, or one of you cometh from offices of nature, or ye have been in contact with women, and ye find no water, then take for yourselves clean sand or earth, and rub therewith your faces and hands, Allah doth not wish to place you in a difficulty, but to make you clean, and to complete his favour to you, that ye may be grateful.


Checked the highlighted words? It means that if anyone, regardless of gender, has had sexual intercourse then he/she requires bathing. That is the only condition. It no where mentions menstruation.


Check another verse.


4:43 - O ye who believe! Approach not prayers with a mind befogged, until ye can understand all that ye say,- nor in a state of ceremonial impurity (Except when travelling on the road), until after washing your whole body. If ye are ill, or on a journey, or one of you cometh from offices of nature, or ye have been in contact with women, and ye find no water, then take for yourselves clean sand or earth, and rub therewith your faces and hands. For Allah doth blot out sins and forgive again and again.


Still no indication that God has disallowed women not to perform religious duties while menstruating.


Mind you, I am not talking about whether women should pray while in that situation. Not everyone of them can because its too hard for them to do anything but those women who want to perform their religious duties, there should be no 'religious injunction' prohibiting them to do so.


Related Posts


- Can You Touch The Quran When Unclean?
- A Woman's Witness Value Worth half of Men?
- Can A Woman Be An Imam?

Who Was Abraham's Father?

Islam is one of the Abrahamic religions alongside Christianity and Judaism. Abraham or Ibrahim was the messenger of God for whom the first term of 'muslim' (one who submits to the will of God) was coined. Prophet Muhammad did not invent 'Islam', he himself was told to follow the religion of Abraham whom was given all the rituals of Islam. (Quran 22:78)

There is a certain issue regarding the identity of Abraham's father. You can check the site here. The contention is that Abraham's father was a monotheist instead of a polytheist. Quran refers to Abraham's father as 'Azar' and history books mention him to be 'Tarukh'. The argument is that Quranic translators have got it wrong by saying that Azar was father of Abraham who was wicked as wicked could be. He, instead, was Abraham's uncle and his father was 'Tarukh' - a very noble person. In essence, there is a thing called 'lineage' and 'pedigree' does matter.

The gist of the blog post is in the following text.

"The Holy Prophet (PBUH&HF) has said that the essence of his existence had been transmitted and ultimately conveyed to his immediate parents through a pure, a holy and sanctified progeny."

Now there are couple of things that need to be pointed out.

1. Selection of Messenger

Its God religion and its His will whom He wants as His messenger. He made Abraham, Moses, Jesus, Muhammad his messengers because He wanted to. Abraham could still have been present in this universe without being a Prophet. So its God's 'blessing' that they were made Prophets.

16:02 - He doth send down His angels with inspiration of His Command, to such of His servants as He pleaseth, (saying): "Warn (Man) that there is no god but I: so do your duty unto Me."

2. Prophets were Human Beings

What on earth does this statement mean? It means that humans, as followers, have a natural tendency to 'idolize' their leaders. Prophets were not exempt from it either. God constantly keeps reminding us in Quran that they were 'ordinary' human beings just like you but they were 'blessed' enough to receive the scripture.

Let me quote a very interesting Quranic verse.

25:07 - And they say: "What sort of a messenger is this, who eats food, and walks through the streets? Why has not an angel been sent down to him to give admonition with him?

There are Two aspects of this verse. As obvious, the disbelievers are commenting upon the designated messenger of God as to how could that person be a messenger? What good is he? He is just a human being like us, he would have some credibility had there been an angel sent down with him.

The other aspect of this verse, is for the followers of that prophet that after all, he is a human being! His role is just to deliver the message, be a warner and forbearer of good news and nothing more. He cant save you on day of judgment, he cant intercede (shafa'at) on your behalf, he cant provide you hidden treasures. In fact, Prophet Muhammad was told to say this...

7:188 - Say: "I have no power over any good or harm to myself except as Allah willeth. If I had knowledge of the unseen, I should have multiplied all good, and no evil should have touched me: I am but a warner, and a bringer of glad tidings to those who have faith."

The idea being that Prophets are not considered 'super humans' and thus people end up idolizing them, just as christians do in case of Jesus. Mind you, muslims just don't say that Prophet Muhammad is son of God but they expect everything from him in the same manner.

3. Does Lineage Matter?

Not at all. Abraham is no lesser Prophet in value because 'oh God forbid his father was a polytheist!' Nothing like that. Now you will ask - what about Prophet Muhammad's parents? were they polytheists too? Frankly I do not know. God told about Abraham's father but He kept quiet on Prophet Muhammad's parents issue. I am no one to judge other people faith. So let it be between Prophet's parents and God ok? Though one thing.. if you are a 'Syed', then rest assured you are not privileged, you do not have special permissions and you are not anointed as the only knowledge bearer on earth. The only criteria is 'righteousness'.

49:13 - O mankind! We created you from a single (pair) of a male and a female, and made you into nations and tribes, that ye may know each other (not that ye may despise (each other). Verily the most honoured of you in the sight of Allah is (he who is) the most righteous of you. And Allah has full knowledge and is well acquainted (with all things).

Lastly, let me quote another verse from Quran that shows that progeny does not matter.

2:124 - And remember that Abraham was tried by his Lord with certain commands, which he fulfilled: He said: "I will make thee an Imam to the Nations." He pleaded: "And also (Imams) from my offspring!" He answered: "But My Promise is not within the reach of evil-doers."

Related Posts

1 - The Myth of Intercession
2 - Moon Split - The Miracle?

Religious Quacks On-Line - Part 2

You guys should have seen Aalim Online last night. It was Council of Islamic Ideology (CII) hate-specific special. The 9 members of the CII were certified as 'not pure muslims'.

A certain scholar from Jamia Binoria termed that the recommendations would result in 'increase of divorce rate'. Our Mufti Muneeb said that even when 'khula' is mentioned in nikah nama, still this does not mean that the wife gets the right of divorce rather the court decides on her behalf. Its ok if a man divorces her without court.

The most striking thing - was this. Unfortunately when you are a reader of Quran you get a lot of lovely statements from people who claim to be the guardians of faith. Both of the gentlemen guests and a scholar on-line told audiences that 2 witnesses are not a requirement at the time of Divorce, its only a requirement at Nikah. And my jaws dropped. Check this verse.

Sura Talaq 65:2 - Thus when they fulfil their term appointed, either take them back on equitable terms or part with them on equitable terms; and take for witness two persons from among you, endued with justice, and establish the evidence (as) before Allah....

Please tell me 'I' am wrong and these learned scholars are not! How on earth can they lie in front of the whole world?! But then its no surprise. Evey sort of quack is available as I had mentioned in this post.

They even threatened the Government of dire consequences if if went with the implementation of these recommendations.

Recommendations of Council of Islamic Ideology

(Source The News Editorial, 18th November 08)

- divorce will come into effect 90 days after a woman has filed for separation. Till now, even though family courts have over the past few years granted women seeking divorce their right to annul a marriage more often than before, the long drawn-out procedure for 'khula' has meant repeated visits to courts and the airing of all kinds of messy matters in public. In some cases, omen have been pressurized by judges to return to husbands they wish to leave. The CII's suggestion will make the matter a much simpler one for women

- An application for divorce be registered the same way as a 'nikahnama',
- a husband must register the 'first divorce' rather than sending his wife three simultaneous notices of 'talaq'.
- he should declare his assets at the time of marriage avoiding controversy over what a wife can claim if she files for divorce.
- The inclusion of a clause in the nikahnama granting women the right to divorce has also been recommended. At present, even the clause that allows a man to grant this right to his wife is in practice often struck out by 'nikah khawans'.

There are lot of problems women face when it comes to Divorce related matters in Pakistan. CCI recommendations are a step in the right direction. Unfortunately, the clergy will not allow that as it encroaches upon their domain - their territory. There are some very valuable guidelines in Quran in matters relate to divorce (link below) which can be adopted to stop the mistreatment of women in Pakistan.

Related Posts:

- Divorce in Islam - The Quranic Perspective

- Quacks On Air - Religious Ones

Temporary Marriages In Islam

Shia's Mutaa or Sunnis Misyar marriage contracts are temporary marriage that are made on the basis that 'people would avoid adultery'. These are for a fixed period (although sunnis maintain that its not so) and usually have no liabilities on contracting parties.

The idea that 'muslim soldiers remained on war front without their wives' or today's version of 'workers remain without their wives in other countries' are essentially the same.

Misyar marriage contracts are popular in Saudi where expensive dowry requirements have made marriages impossible to be made and thus have rendered a lot of women single. A definite problem.

Shia's refer to 4:24 for muta marriages. It has Arabic of 'fama istamtatum'.. meaning 'from whom you have benefited' (consummated marriage). It has the root word of 'mutaa' (benefit) and this verse is taken literally.. that since it has 'muta' in it, it was prevalent in times of Prophet Muhammad, he did not stop this practice and Caliph Omar did, Omar had no right so Mutaa as marriage is still intact.

Anyways.. the thing is that temporary marriages are not allowed whether of sunnis or shias's. Be chaste, refrain from adultery and if you cant find a mate.. be patient. The next verse states

4:25 - And whoso is not able to afford to marry free, believing women, let them marry from the believing maids... This is for him among you who feareth to commit sin. But to have patience would be better for you. Allah is Forgiving,

Related Post

1 - Polygamy in Islam

2 - Divorce In Islam - A Quranic Perspective

3 - Female Sex Slaves in Islam

Female Sex Slaves in Islam

Slaves or 'londi' is a very controversial topic in Islam. Unfortunately, 'Londi' has become a term synonymous with sex slaves. This is not true.

23:01 - Successful indeed are the believers,
23:02 - Those who humble themselves in their prayers;
23:03 - Who avoid vain talk;
23:04 - Who are active in deeds of charity;
23:05 - Who abstain from sex,
23:06 - Except with those joined to them in the marriage bond, OR (the captives) whom their right hands possess,- for (in their case) they are free from blame,

First thing first. Lust is to be avoided. A believer has to 'abstain' from sex. If there is a 'chance' of 'have a londi? - do sex' then this verse quashes it. And it comes before the verse which says 'Except with their wives OR captives/ londis'

Mind you. God is All knowing. He chooses words very carefully. He used the word 'aao' in Arabic which means OR. He did not use 'wa' AND. All this means you can have sex EITHER with your wife OR londi. Its not 'free stuff'.

Further, you have to get 'married' to have sex, in both the cases. No other way around.

4:25 - And whoso is not able to afford to marry free, believing women, let them marry from the believing maids whom your right hands possess...

24:33 - And let those who cannot find a match keep chaste till Allah give them independence by His grace...

As regards slavery, Quran does not endorse slavery and instead wants the believers to free the slaves. In effect, Quran suggests abolition of slavery.

2:177 - ... righteous is he who believeth in Allah and the Last Day and the angels and the Scripture and the prophets; and giveth wealth, for love of Him, to kinsfolk and to orphans and the needy and the wayfarer and to those who ask, and to set slaves free; ...

To summarize

1 - You should not commit adultery. (Quran 23:05)

2 - You can have sex with your wife (in case you are married) OR slaves (in case you are not married) (Quran 23:06), but also,

3 - In case of latter, you are to 'marry' the slave (Quran 4:25)

4 - If you are still single.. be content and abstain from adultery. (Quran 24:33)

Check Other Post

- Polygamy in Islam - A Quranic Perspective

Saum, Roza, Fast

Wishing everyone a very happy ramadan :)

Some points to share with the readers regarding Ramadan according to Quran. I will also try to address some questions usually related to Fasting.

2:185 - Ramadhan is the (month) in which was sent down the Qur'an, as a guide to mankind, also clear (Signs) for guidance and judgment (Between right and wrong). So every one of you who is present (at his home) during that month should spend it in fasting, ...

The importance of the month of Ramadan is not only due to the fact that muslims fast in it, Quran was also revealed in the month of Ramadan.

Q: Is it necessary to sight the moon for commencement of Ramadan?
A. No it is not necessary. Quran no where states that moon should be sighted. God advises us that Sun and Moon are the calculating devices.

6:96 - He it is that cleaveth the day-break (from the dark): He makes the night for rest and tranquillity, and the sun and moon for the reckoning (of time): Such is the judgment and ordering of (Him), the Exalted in Power, the Omniscient.

Q: Was Fasting as religious duty given to Prophet Muhammad?
A: Prophet Muhammad was not given this religious duty. All of the religious duties have been given to Prophet Abraham (Link)

2:183 - O ye who believe! Fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you, that ye may (learn) self-restraint,-

Q: What are the timings of Fast?
A:

2:187 - ... and eat and drink, until the white thread of dawn appear to you distinct from its black thread; then complete your fast Till the night appears; ...

Q: Who should Fast?
A: Everyone - who can that is.

2:184 - Specific days (are designated for fasting); if one is ill or traveling, an equal number of other days may be substituted. ...

Q: Is it true that for the relaxation of not Fasting while traveling, a distance of at least 40 km is required?
A: Quran no where states the kms or miles. It states that if you find it difficult to manage the Fast while traveling, you can substitute the number of Fasts for other days after Ramadan. Quran is not saying that you should not Fast if you are traveling. If you can manage it - good. If not, then substitute other days for it.

Q: I am a nursing mother, I find it difficult to Fast. What should I do?
A: Follow verse 2:184. Anyone who finds it difficult to fast, for whatever reason, should do the following.

2:184 - ... and those who are not able to do it may effect a redemption by feeding a poor man;

Q: Is it possible that I don't Fast and feed a poor instead to compensate for it?
A: Anyone who witnesses the month of Ramadan, should Fast unless he/ she finds it difficult to manage.

2:185 - ... therefore whoever of you is present in the month, he shall fast therein, ...
2:184 - ... and that you fast is better for you if you know.

Q: Can one copulate in Ramadan?
A:

2:187 - Permitted to you, on the night of the fasts, is sexual intercourse with your wives. They are your garments and ye are their garments ...

Any queries, please comment.

Related Posts:

1 - Travel Prayers - Salat e Qasr.
2- Eid - Is Animal Sacrifice Obligatory?
3- 5 Pillars of Islam.

Is Quran Really Detailed?

6:114 - Say: "Shall I seek for judge other than Allah? - when He it is Who hath sent unto you the Book, explained in detail." They know full well, to whom We have given the Book, that it hath been sent down from thy Lord in truth. Never be then of those who doubt.

God states that Quran is fully detailed. Is it? I was asked the following questions on a discussion board.
-------

Just tell me about the one verse of Quran which describe how many rakat's are
in five prayers. What will you recite in each prayer? Just Give me one
example. If u r unable to give me a reference from Quran then you should accept this that hadith is the source.

1. Quran is word of Allah. TRUE

2. No doubt Quran is complete. TRUE

3. Only messenger of ALLAH (Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W)) can explain the Quran.TRUE

4. Acts of Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W) explains the meaning of Quran. TRUE

5. Acts of Prophet Muhammad(S.A.W) are recorded in Hadith.TRUE

---------

My reply here.

See. When God says Quran is fully detailed.. then it must be. But then where is your question addressed in Quran? Is God joking with us? because number of rakaat of prayers are not mentioned in Quran!

Prayers and other religious duties (Zakat, Fasting) were not given to Prophet Muhammad - they were given to Prophet Abraham. People of Mecca were 'already' doing all these things but were 'mushrik' (polytheists). There was no need to tell them 'how many rakaats are there in prayers!'. Check my blog here for further reference...

http://think-islam.blogspot.com/2007/10/5-pillars-of-islam.html

Now your other questions...

1. Quran is word of Allah. TRUE (you are right)

2. No doubt Quran is complete. TRUE (right there too!)

3. Only messenger of ALLAH (Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W)) can explain the Quran. TRUE.

No its FALSE!

Prophet Muhammad was not allowed to 'explain' Quran! Its really astonishing what God states in Quran and according to Him, Prophet (every prophet for that matters) is just a deliverer of Message!

75:16 - Move not thy tongue concerning the (Qur'an) to make haste therewith

75:17 - It is for Us to collect it and to promulgate it:

75:18 - But when We have promulgated it, follow thou its recital

75:19 - Nay more, it is for Us to explain it

4. Acts of Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W) explains the meaning of Quran. FALSE!

Prophet Muhammad was a human being! He committed mistakes as evidenced in Quran! For example

66:1 - O Prophet! Why holdest thou to be forbidden that which Allah has made lawful to
thee? Thou seekest to please thy consorts. But Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

80:01 - (The Prophet) frowned and turned away,

80:02 - Because there came to him the blind man (interrupting).

All of these are human elements. Prophet Muhammad was not an angel rather a human being. Thats why one should never idolize humans!

Respect the Prophet because he was the last of Prophet, he was given a supreme message! But seek guidance from Allah and not humans!

5. Acts of Prophet Muhammad(S.A.W) are recorded in Hadith.TRUE. (questionable)

There are an estimated 400,000 hadiths in Sahih Bukhari. 4000 are considered 'authentic'. That represents a mere 1%.

Quran is 'detailed'!

The Myth of Intercession

Can Prophet Muhammad save you on Judgment day? Can your parents save you on Judgment day? Can reciting Sura Yasin everyday save you on Judgment Day? Will the Quran save you on Judgment day?


When I was young, I used to go in the local mosque for Quran recitation and memorization. I memorized 4 Chapters of Quran! (not Sura but chapters 1, 28, 29 and 30) Then came Mathematics! God I hate Math! I failed in class 6th in this subject and I had to abandon the memorization of Quran to give more time to Math! End result - I left memorizing Quran and still am as impotent at mathematics as I was earlier.


The thing that was used as a motivation factor in memorization of Quran was that one who is a 'hafiz' (a person who memorizes Quran) will ensure that his/ her parents are made to wear a golden crown. Apart from that, the hafiz will be able to intercede on behalf of 10 of his relatives and Allah will forgive their sins and enter them into paradise! Lovely is it not? :) Of course that will not happen.


What is Intercession? and what does Quran say about it. Intercession is an act through which God Almighty supposedly will forgive you on behalf of that person who will request God to do the favour. Quran says


19:87 - None shall have the power of intercession, but such a one as has received permission (or promise) from (Allah) Most Gracious.


Ok we do come to know that intercession 'can' take place. There is this mechanism set by God whereby He will let people intercede for other. That makes a certain person 'very' powerful. Imagine, a person so powerful that if he tells God about a certain person.. God forgives all the sins of that person and enters him in paradise!


But is it really so? I get to read from Quran..


2:255 - ...Who is there can intercede in His presence except as He permitteth?...


So you require 'permission' to intercede? What kind of intercession is it that requires permission of God first? Lets probe a bit more...


21:28 - He knows what is before them, and what is behind them, and they offer no intercession except for those who are acceptable, and they stand in awe and reverence of His (Glory).


Isn't it a bit contrary to the common belief held? A person can request intercession for another person 'only' for the ones whom God have approved! It is just like a 'favour' that God is bestowing upon a certain person that 'OK, you can intercede on that fellows behalf! this is my gift to you!". There is no 'charm' in the person who is interceding rather God is bestowing a favour. No intercession can take place for a person who is not 'approved' by God!


That natural affiliation/ respect/ admiration is due to what reason? that a person is 'closer' to God. Because in this way you can be 'closer' to God yourself. Just like God states in the following verse..


39:03 - Is it not to Allah that sincere devotion is due? But those who take for protectors other than Allah (say): "We only serve them in order that they may bring us nearer to Allah." Truly Allah will judge between them in that wherein they differ. But Allah guides not such as are false and ungrateful.


Analyze yourself. The reverence you have for Prophet Muhammad - could it be due to same reason as stated in the verse above? All these saints and 'revered' personalities.. you don't by any chance think that they might show you the path to the Lord?! Bring you closer to Him?! Do you some favour in this world and on Judgment Day?!


10:37 - Say: Is there any of your associates who guides to the truth? Say: Allah guides to the truth. Is He then Who guides to the truth more worthy to be followed, or he who himself does not go aright unless he is guided? What then is the matter with you; how do you judge?


Do respect the Prophet, he was anointed by God as the last Prophet - thats not an ordinary thing but remember that Prophet will not save you on the day of judgment. Prophet Muhammad has no power of intercession. He was even told that he cannot guide anyone - let alone intercede on someones behalf. This can only be done by God.


28:56 - Lo! thou (O Muhammad) guidest not whom thou lovest, but Allah guideth whom He will. And He is Best Aware of those who walk aright.


Intercession can not take place - at least not the common way in which it is understood.


30:11 - It is Allah Who begins (the process of) creation; then repeats it; then shall ye be brought back to Him
30:12 - On the Day that the Hour will be established, the guilty will be struck dumb with despair.
30:13 - There will be none to intercede for them of those whom they made equal with Allah. And they will reject their partners.

Can A Muslim Befriend A Non-Muslim?

Now, this is one that you get to hear a lot from certain muslim quarters. Al-Qaeda and its likes will swear upon anything to show its true. A muslim is not supposed to befriend non-muslims especially Jews and Christians because they are out to hurt you! In this globalized world, a muslim will meet a person from another faith and the assertion that they should not be made friends sounds illogical unless you have a reason for doing so! I had a very good Christian friend in school, I used to eat from his home! God must be kidding us when stating so! But first.. the oft quoted verses ...

60:01 - O you who believe! do not take My enemy and your enemy for friends:...

5:51 - O ye who believe! take not the Jews and the Christians for your friends and protectors: They are but friends and protectors to each other. And he amongst you that turns to them (for friendship) is of them. Verily Allah guideth not a people unjust.

5:82 - Strongest among men in enmity to the believers wilt thou find the Jews and Pagans; and nearest among them in love to the believers wilt thou find those who say, "We are Christians": because amongst these are men devoted to learning and men who have renounced the world, and they are not arrogant.

We have to have a complete picture of why God is stating a particular thing regarding people and for that you need to have an understanding of Quran. The answer lies in these verses.

60:01 - O ye who believe! Take not my enemies and yours as friends (or protectors),- offering them (your) love, even though they have rejected the Truth that has come to you, and have (on the contrary) driven out the Prophet and yourselves (from your homes), (simply) because ye believe in Allah your Lord! If ye have come out to strive in My Way and to seek My Good Pleasure, (take them not as friends), holding secret converse of love (and friendship) with them: for I know full well all that ye conceal and all that ye reveal. And any of you that does this has strayed from the Straight Path.

60:08 - Allah does not forbid you respecting those who have not made war against you on account of (your) religion, and have not driven you forth from your homes, that you show them kindness and deal with them justly; surely Allah loves the doers of justice.

60:09 - Allah only forbids you respecting those who made war upon you on account of (your) religion, and drove you forth from your homes and backed up (others) in your expulsion, that you make friends with them, and whoever makes friends with them, these are the unjust.

The only case in which you are not allowed to befriend non-muslim is when they religiously persecute you. If they want to co-exist peacefully, you are not allowed to transgress.

4:90 - Except those who join a group between whom and you there is a treaty (of peace), or those who approach you with hearts restraining them from fighting you as well as fighting their own people. If Allah had pleased, He could have given them power over you, and they would have fought you: Therefore if they withdraw from you but fight you not, and (instead) send you (Guarantees of) peace, then Allah Hath opened no way for you (to war against them).

No where it states that when you meet an ordinary Jew, Christian or a Hindu - automatically start with mistrust of that person! thats ridiculous. That person of another faith, might be a better person than your 'believer' friend. We are all humans. We should respect each others faiths.

2:256 - Let there be no compulsion in religion...

Check My Other Posts

- 'I Hate You'

Torment of the Grave

Q. Will there be 'azab e qabr'?
A. No.

As muslims we all believe that we will judged for our acts on the Judgment Day. Quran is quite detailed about the Judgment Day and several verses give a portrayal of that day. The earth will become barren and the mountains will be wiped out (18:47), horn will be blown and everyone will rise from their graves and go to their Lord (36:51), the deeds will be evaluated (36:54). We also know that souls will enter heaven in case of death if the person has performed good deeds (36:26).

There is another thing in Islamic literature which deals with Torment of the Grave, 'azaab e qabr'. According to this, the evil doers will really get a thrashing! I mean their grave for one will be so tight that they will not be able to breath, there will be snakes and I do not now what to cause them hurt. On the other hand the doers of good will be treated nicely in their graves.

The thing is.. there is no such thing in Quran regarding torment of the grave. What I get from Quran is that there would be hardly anything like that! Check this verse...

20:102 - The Day when the Trumpet will be sounded: that Day, We shall gather the sinful, blear-eyed (with terror).
20:103 - In whispers will they consult each other: "Yet remained not longer than ten (Days);
20:104 - We know best what they will say, when their leader most eminent in conduct will say: "Ye remained not longer than a day!"

Tell me.. whats the purpose of so great a torment to the evil doers when they do not even remember what happened?! I mean there has to be a purpose for the torment right? If you keep torturing me the whole night and the next morning I don't remember a thing... isn't that quite helpful for me?

There will be no such thing as torment of the grave because God has already stated that He will judge the deeds on a specific day called Judgment Day. I understand the reason for all such stuff as this become sort of moral suasion for the believers to do good deeds. Though there will be no such thing.

Comments?

A Woman's Witness Value Worth Half of Men?

No.


OK let me jump straight to the verse and then see...

2:282 - O ye who believe! When ye deal with each other, in transactions involving future obligations in a fixed period of time, reduce them to writing Let a scribe write down faithfully as between the parties: let not the scribe refuse to write: as Allah Has taught him, so let him write. Let him who incurs the liability dictate, but let him fear His Lord Allah, and not diminish aught of what he owes. If they party liable is mentally deficient, or weak, or unable Himself to dictate, Let his guardian dictate faithfully, and get two witnesses, out of your own men, and if there are not two men, then a man and two women, such as ye choose, for witnesses, so that if one of them errs, the other can remind her ...

The verse continues but I stopped here as the latter part will not form part of discussion. Couple of things (and more) to note here.


1. Its about a financial deal. More specifically a debt deal.
2. General principles regarding the deal are being told, basic idea being that there is no injustice.
3. The debtor is to dictate what should be written (not the creditor for fair play). The debtor should state the exact amount, specification of debt.
4. If the debtor is mentally weak, deficient in abilities to dictate then a guardian on his behalf should do this.
5. Witnesses have to be present. Witnesses should have the approval of both the parties.
6. Witnesses should be 2 Men or 1 Man and two women. If one forgets/ errs, the other reminds.


Lets evaluate the verse.


- The verse is dealing when people deal amongst themselves, sets the basic guidelines and ensures that no injustice takes place.


- The verse in no way suggests, and no one should extrapolate from it, that women are not allowed to appear in courts or testify! This does not relate to her intelligence, competence or her role being of a 'house wife' primarily. This is ridiculous.


- This verse does not in any way suggest that women are 'stupid'. If she is, why would the other woman remind her? isn't she stupid too?


- This relates more to the situation wherein women are subject to various social, cultural difficulties. There might be situations in which she might be exploited.


Now let me tell you another interesting thing. It relates to the translation of the verse and specifically the word 'ehda-huma' which means 'one of the two'. 'huma' means dual/ those two. Interestingly, this word is 'genderless'! so it does not mean that 'if one of the two women errs or forgets' - it means 'if one of the two forget or err' (including male and female).


For example: -


23:50 - And We made the son of Mary and his mother as a Sign: We gave them both ('wayna-huma') shelter on high ground, affording rest and security and furnished with springs.


24:02 - The woman and the man guilty of adultery or fornication,- flog each of them ('min-huma') with a hundred stripes: ...


Please do not trust me. Open the Quran and see. And do not ask me why the translators made it gender specific in case of verse 2:282. Good translations do keep this in mind. Check Pickthal.


2:282 - ... And if two men be not (at hand) then a man and two women, of such as ye approve as witnesses, so that if the one erreth (through forgetfulness) the other will remember....


Peace.