MEAVI MILAD KITAB

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C O N T E N T S

Ashara Munaraka 1428

Article # 1 ......................................................................................................................... Page 06


Article # 2 ......................................................................................................................... Page09


Article # 3 ......................................................................................................................... Page 12


Article # 4 ......................................................................................................................... Page 15

95 t h Milad Mubaraka

Article # 5 ......................................................................................................................... Page 17

Article # 6 ......................................................................................................................... Page 17

Article # 7 ......................................................................................................................... Page 18

Article # 8 ......................................................................................................................... Page 19

Article # 9 ......................................................................................................................... Page 20


Article # 10 ....................................................................................................................... Page 23

Article # 11 ....................................................................................................................... Page 24

Article # 12 ....................................................................................................................... Page 25


Article # 13 ....................................................................................................................... Page 28

Article # 14 ....................................................................................................................... Page 29

Article # 15 ....................................................................................................................... Page 31


Article # 16 ....................................................................................................................... Page 35

Article # 17 ....................................................................................................................... Page 36

Article # 18 ....................................................................................................................... Page 37


Article # 19 ....................................................................................................................... Page 41

Article # 20 ....................................................................................................................... Page 42

Mind Mints

Article # 21 Fazr Sadiq ...................................................................................................... Page 46

Article # 22 The Tragedy of Karbala in the Context of Marasiya Ya Sayyed-us-Shodaee ..... Page 48

Article # 23 Batle of Badr ............. …………………………………………………………………………………… Page 50

Article # 24 Batle of Ohod ................................................................................................ Page 52

Article # 25 Death is but a Dropping of the Flower so that the Fruit may swell .................. Page 53

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Article # 26 Cloning in my backyard Not a Joke a Reality ................................................... Page 54

Article # 27 Genetic Thinking – Living Each day to the fullest ............................................ Page 55

Article # 28 This will refresh your mind and set your thinking ........................................... Page 56

Article # 29 Education Grant/Long Term K>H> for Higher Education ................................. Page 57

Article # 30 Get united to fight the Monster ...................................................................... Page 59

Article # 31 HAJ - A spiritual Journey ................................................................................ Page 60

Article # 32 Tilawat of Munaja't in Sherullah .................................................................... Page 61

Article # 33 Munaja't Sahrifa Sehrullah 1422 H ................................................................. Page 62

Article # 34 Ilmi barakaat in Sehruallh .............................................................................. Page 63

Article # 35 Quran E Hakeem … ......................................................................................... Page 64

Article # 36 Aliens are coming Humour ............................................................................. Page 65

Article # 37 The importance of Prayers ............................................................................. Page 65

Article # 38 English translation of Nashihat ...................................................................... Page 66

Article # 39 Taffakur .......................................................................................................... Page 67

Article # 40 Taffakur ....................................................................................................... … Page 69




Article # 44 The Party Begins - I'm Loving it ....................................................................... Page 73

Article # 45 Metamorphosis of Page 3 reader ................................................................... Page 74

Article # 46 Ruminating the Global Meltdown…. .............................................................. Page 75

Article # 47 Wealth and Money what is the difference ..................................................... Page 78

Article # 48 When will I learn ............................................................................................ Page 79

Article # 49 Jafar Al Jameye – An Esoteric Science ............................................................. Page 80

Article # 50 Music to my Ears ........................................................................................ … Page 80

Article # 51 Survival Strategies – not the usual Run of the Mill type Contentment ............. Page 82

Article # 52 Najwa E A'ansoo ............................................................................................ Page 83

Article # 53 Fakhr - Pride .................................................................................................. Page 85

Article # 54 Fakhr-Pride(second post) ............................................................................... Page 86

Article # 55 Fakhr in ubudiy'at .......................................................................................... Page 87

Article # 56 They also walked ........................................................................................... Page 88

Article # 57 Here we come - O Moula ............................................................................... Page 89

Article # 58 Notes on Spirituality ...................................................................................... Page 91

Article # 59 Notes on Spirituality Part 2 ............................................................................. Page 92

Article # 60 Notes on Spirituality Part 3 ............................................................................. Page 93

Article # 61 Nashihat of Syedi Sadik Ali Saheb ................................................................... Page 94

Article # 62 Elegant rida and profile of an elegant mumina ............................................... Page 96

Article # 63 Hikmaah - Mawa'izah Kitabah ........................................................................ Page 97

Article # 64 The spreading of Islamic Science and Philosophy ............................................ Page 98

Article # 65 A Breif History of Everything - Ken Wilber ...................................................... Page 99

Article # 66 Fatemi Heritage Tour of North Afrikiya .......................................................... Page 99

Article # 67 Time Line - The Glorious Fatimids Empire ...................................................... Page 102

Article # 68 Time Line - The Glorious Fatimids Empire Part 2 ............................................. Page 104

Article # 69 Time Line - The Glorious Fatimids Empire Part 3 ............................................. Page 106

Article # 70 The Chemistry of Death Not for the faint hearted ........................................... Page 108

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Article # 71 Science is rediscovering the truths of Divine Religions .................................... Page 110

Article # 72 EGO ................................................................................................................ Page 112

Article # 73 Livelihood - ALLAH KNOWS BEST .................................................................... Page 114

Article # 74 Iibadat ............................................................................................................ Page 115

Article # 75 Power of Prayers ........................................................................................... Page 116

Article # 76 Make your Choice .......................................................................................... Page 117

Article # 77 Walayah ........................................................................................................ Page 118

Article # 78 HAPPINESS .................................................................................................... Page 120

Article # 79 Sherullah and Spirituality ............................................................................... Page 121

Article # 80 Reflections in the month Of Sahbaan ul Kareem ............................................. Page 122

Article # 81 Introspection of Khidmat ............................................................................... Page 123

Article # 82 Our Nabi (SA).................................................................................................. Page 124

Article # 83 Rebuilding of Kaba ......................................................................................... Page 125

Article # 84 The first Revelation and start of Preaching Islam ............................................ Page 125

Article # 85 Islam spreads in spite of percecusions ........................................................... Page 127

Article # 86 The First Migration ........................................................................................ Page 128

Article # 87 Muhammad (SA) sets out to Taif .................................................................... Page 129

Article # 88 The Hijrat to Media ........................................................................................ Page 130

Article # 89 The Brotherhood ............................................................................................ Page 131

Article # 90 Munajat Sharifa 1429 H My Tassavura't ......................................................... Page 131

Article # 91 Sehrullah - The month of Supplication ........................................................... Page 132

Article # 92 The Secret ...................................................................................................... Page 133

Article # 93 The Secret - Healing Code .............................................................................. Page 135

Article # 94 Our Deen is a Healing Code ............................................................................ Page 136

Article # 95 Abundance in our Deen ................................................................................. Page 138

Article # 96 no mind ' in Namaz - a natural state of felt Page oneness with Allah .............. Page 140

Article # 97 Conscious Death ............................................................................................ Page 141

Article # 98 The isha'raats in my Moula's kalam and salaam ............................................. Page 143

Article # 99 The Ish'raats in my Moula's Munaja't Sharifa .................................................. Page 144

Article # 100 Barakatul Faizul Mawaid Burhaniyah…………………………………………………………… Page 146

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Ashara Mubaraka

1428

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Article-1

Sajadaat-us-shukr va ubudiyat Moula on your very first khitaab to the world wide community of mumineen, the world over from Colombo. ‘je zikr kare tehna vaste sharaf che, te zizkr karnar tame sagla cho’ You expounded on the true meaning of ‘zikr’ and it is none other but you who can do full justice by saying that we should do ‘shukr’ along with ‘zikr’ ‘Zikran kaseera’ implies in its essence to do zikr in great measure, but kaseera rightly means to get yourself immersed in the zikr of vali-ullah, and in particular vali e zaman, so it is imperative on the part of mumineen to do zikr of our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) Moula within a short time space you with the ta’eed of Imam-uz-zaman (S.A.) took the entire world community of mumineen through the tragic events of Karbala. You started emphatically by asking - A’shara mubaraka ma su thayu ? And within a 7 minutes mumineen sitting where ever in the world, and listening to your baya’n and having your deedar, were spiritually transported to the desert plains of Karbala, where tragic events unfolded, culminating in the sha’adat of Imam Husain (S.A.) and in unison the world over, mumineen cried out aloud YA HUSAIN ! YA HUSAIN ! I have used the word time space with a purpose. This a’shara on account of constrains, many, who even had all the wherewithal to attend v’aaz , were unable to do so, and one can feel the heaviness in their hearts for not being able to make it to Colombo. The very first audio/video relay has quenched the thirst. Moula addressed the world wide community with the following words : ‘aajey tamam bilad e Iman ma maro a’awaj mumineen suni rahya cho, maro chero dekhi rahya cho, mashriq ma, maghrib ma, junub ma, shimaal ma, goya tameh mari Majlis maaj hazir cho. Em yaqeen rakhjo ke mein tamari aah-o-buka, aah-o-zari and maatam ne dil na kano si sooni rahyo chu. Khuda duniya – akherat ma maro sanghaat tamne mubarak and mohanna karjo’ For my young school and college going friends I have something of interest to share with them from the Quantum Field Theory, so that they may reflect (taffakur) and surely the above bayaan mubarak of Aqa Moula (TUS) will have a greater meaning. Quantum Field Theory which is being upheld after much scientific research, postulates that the whole of universe is flooded with by a sea of energy, a clear light, that fills , what is known as the quantum vacuum. The fundamental particles, like, electrons are absolutely identical whenever or wherever, they come into being, because they are, in actuality ripples in the same pervasive sea –excitations of the electron field that permeates the whole universe. Ordinarily we think of space as that which separates objects. But non locality experiments (quantum teleportation) has demonstrated that if we send twin photons off to different sectors of space, any action performed on one instantaneously effects the other, as if they remain ever bound in spite of their spatial separation. (Book Ref: Code name God by Dr. Mani Bhowmik) So my young friends, next time when you are blessed with an audio/video relay of vaaz, feel the excitations and ripples resulting from the ‘nida’ of YA HUSAIN ! on the sea of energy, which in fact is true valayat and ma’arefat of our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) and like teleportation of photons, your souls will be imbued with spiritual bliss, tears will flow to glow in hereafter, and the love and affection for Aqa Moula (TUS) will bring rich rewards and bounties on the day of Kayamat. You will be ever bound in love and spirit with your Moula (TUS) in spite of the separation and great distances.

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In effect, we are not separated from him, we are one with him. In my own humble way I hope I have received the blessing to do ‘zikr’ of my Moula (TUS) I take liberty to paraphrase the words of a ‘ma’tami noha’ Moula kabool karlo, ye taffakur mukhlesana

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Ashara Mubaraka

1429

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Article-2

Once again the world wide community of mumineen received the baraka’ts of Ashara vaaz and sharaf of deedar mubarak, and were spiritually transported to the desert plains of Karbala, as their beloved Moula relived the tragic events that unfolded, culminating in the sahadat Imam Husain (S.A.) With each nida of Ya Husain rose thousands around the world, charged with emotions, flowing tears, buka and matam. We all became one with our Moula. Time, space and distance merged, for a single purpose. In the very first relayed vaaz on Jumoa mumineen around the world were made aware of the exalted position of Doat-us-satr. Ibrahim Nabi (S.A.) received farman and ta’eed to construct Baitullah and thereafter to climb upon mount ‘safa’ and placing fingers in his ears to give ‘azan’ to call aloud to people to come towards Kaba. In fact when Ibrahim Nabi (S.A.) was commanded to give ‘azan’ there were hardly anyone around the Kaba at that time, who would have heeded to his call. Aqa Moula (TUS) revealed the true significance of the event by stating that with Allah’s ta’eed it was possible for Ibrahim Nabi (S.A.) to carry his clarion call throughout East and West, around the world. Those in the groins of their fathers, those to be born centuries later, said labayk, and as many times they said labayk, they received the boon of haj pilgrimage, that many times in their life. So whenever the call of aza,n is given, we should say labaik ya dai Allah ! Like Baitullah the very person of Dai symbolizes inherent goodness, in his actions, in his dawat and in his own person. The most touching moments were when Aqa Moula (TUS) narrated the different arkans to be performed during Haj. He started by saying that when one ties ehra’m of Haj, he should say aloud ALLAHUMMA LABAYK – he should say at least four times, the more the better. Every one may have noticed that very moment Aqa Moula (TUS) like a loving and benevolent father, bent a little forward and addressed mumineen worldwide to repeat ALLAHUMMA LABAYK four times. As tears flowed like torrents, I for one was sure that this Jumoa I had performed Haj with Aqa Moula (TUS) On 6th Muharram we were once again blessed to be in the majlis with Dai e Husain. From Imami takht flowed the four streams of Jannat. During the bayan on Ilm adad he emphasized on the importance of numerical ONE which is a numerical and also an active agent, with the help of which all subsequent numerical are recognized. Everything is derived from ONE and everything will merge into ONE. Mumineen na vaste sharaf azeem che, Mohammad (S.A.) thi apni ginti shuru thai che. ONE is all encompassing. The tasavvur I took from this noorani kalema’t was that at macro level of the Dawat our Nabi (S.A.) is ONE and at micro level our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) is ONE. We have to be ONE with him first at the micro level, so that we can be ONE with RasulAlla (S.A.) and then onward ………………. In this vaaz mubarak I gathered many reference points, which quenched my thirst. I will not like to elaborate, as I am not competent enough to express myself fully. The most poignant moment of 8th Muharram vaaz was the emotionally charged appeal of Aqa Moula (TUS) - ai gulamane Ali, haji dil bharayoo nathi !!! Amidst the rising crescendo of matam and nida of YA ALI – YA ALI - around the world, Moula fervently beseeched – Ai Ali ! hamari mushkil ne aasa’n karjo. There is no doubt, that very moment, throughout alam – e – imaan, mumineen je sagla Moula na sathe ALI ni tasbih kidhi, sagla ni mushkil aasa’n thai gayee, Shamal jame karvanoo kam Aqa Moula nu che ane te ALI MOULA ye aasa’n kari a’pu on 8th of Muharram. By repeatedly urging mumineen the world over, till the very end of vaaz to call upon the Blessed and Glorious name of YA ALI YA ALI – Moula accomplished to establish the fact that - ‘ Tasbih Ali ke naam ki Hei jabaja, har su ba.............

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I am fully aware of my limitations to express my tassavura'ts. I feel like a salt doll trying to measure the depht of the ocean. I feel completley inadeqate, but I have tried, and that is satisfaction enought for me.

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Ashara Mubaraka

1430

http://hikmaah.com/tsvurt1430.asp?menuid=12&article=1

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Article-3

Imam Husain (SA) Shukr was exceptional. He recited this dua on the day of A’ashura. ‘ O LORD ! I offer you my gratitude, permeating every pulsating vein in my body, for every morsel and droplet you have provided, by the number of follicles in my body’ Aqa Moula (TUS) interpreting the meaning of the supplication, expounded. ‘Though the blood was flowing from his veins, though he had not tasted a drop of water for three days, though wounds abounded his entire body, Imam Husain (SA) expressed his gratitude to Allah.’ (Courtesy: www.alvazarat.org) Coincidently 5th Muhrram happened to be the New Year 2009. What the economies of the world have witnessed in the last quarter of 2008 and what is forecasted for the coming year is a cause of great concern. However, we mumineen under the benign and farsighted guidance of Aqa Moula (TUS) feel secure and confident, that come what may, with the Doa Mubarak of our Moula and from the barakat and blessings emanating from the buka and matam on Imam Husain (SA) during A’shara , we mumineen will surely tide over the obstacles, if any, and come out winners. It is crunch time, when around the world people are reporting to work, even when sick, for the fear of loosing jobs, when businesses are going out of the way to please the customers and save plunging sales, we mumineen are attending vaaz, downing our shutters during peak business hours, and those in service have taken leave. Isn’t is amazing ! It sure is !! Why ? Because we have faith in our Moula and are not overtly perturbed by what the economic pundits predict. Here I am not saying that the Economists and experts of financial market are wrong, but on the contrary their predictions and reading on how the world economy will shape in the year 2009 is based on hard facts and figures, and their expertise and judgment is valued and respected. Mumineen either in business or service are an integral part of the world economic system, and what effects others, will surely effect them also. They will not be immune, but what is important, is their reaction to the forces of market. It is observed that, in a challenging situation, it is the reaction of an individual that differentiates, between the winner and a looser. Now coming to the point I want to make. Aqa Moula’s bayan mubarak on 5th Muhrram, the first day of 2009 is very significant in the sense that he has sent out a very important and far reaching message to his followers, which will safeguard them and help in positive thinking, to count their blessings in the midst of economic woes. SHUKR ! SHUKR ! SHUKR ! If you have been fortunate to hear the audio clip (www.alvazarat.org) you will have notice the emphasis and the feelings surrounding the utterance of the words, with pregnant pauses containing a vortex of feelings and thoughts that may be arising in the mind and soul of Aqa Moula (TUS) when he addressed his ‘farzando’ ‘Mumineen ni jamaat : Shukr karva thi faydo thai chhe Shukr karva thi tamam umoor durast thai chhe' NOW THIS IS VERY IMPORTANT 'faqat jaban thi nahi, dil thi shukr karo

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tamam a’za thi shukr karo' Mumineen ni Jammat : Shukr vazib che, farz chhe ma’refat na sath hamd shukr kariye chhe jehna haath par ne’mat mile che, shukr karvoo joiye Ne’mat na appnaar to ma’bood che , ehnahaath par miley chhe Husain ne roi lejo matam kari lejo Shukr kari lejo What I infer from this is that Aqa Moula (TUS) has sent out a very positive and strong message, to his followers around the world, to inculcate the noble virtue of shukr (gratitude) and to become aware of the innumerable Blessings of Allah. If one is surrounded by plentitude, it is easy for him to offer hamd and shukr but in times of adversity to offer shukr (the doa mubarak of Imam Husain on the day of A’ashura is a sterling example, unparalleled, bringing tears as one recounts the tragic circumstances, when he supplicated before Allah recounting not the torments and treachery of the enemy, but the blessings of Allah) is a great lesson to be learnt. If I have inferred correctly, this is what Aqa Moula (TUS) requires his followers to do in the face of adversity. Allah forbid but if under challenging circumstances, if one is faced with adversity on account of economic meltdown in business or at work place, or depriciation of assets, he will take up the challenges by fortitude and courage. For he will be counting his many blessings, the most important being that his Moula is there with him to guide him, to lead him on, his family is there to support him, his Iman is there to nourish him and sustain him. If he inculcates the noble virtues of shukr and sabr, even if creature comforts are lost, if income takes a beating, he will not become depressed and sullen, for by doing shukr of the things he has, a whole new mindset and thought process, will be at his command to rejuvenate him. My young friends, even if the economy plays truant, your ‘lifestyle’ may be compromised, but never your ‘livelihood’ Please understand the subtle difference between the two. Of late, I have been observing a phobia of the future, which is unwarranted. Friends, inculcate the noble virtue of shukr in your daily life, and you will surely come out winners, come what may.

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Ashara Mubaraka

1431

http://mindmints.blogspot.com/2010/01/our-sultan-and-his-message-from-marol.html

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Article-4

Ours is a world of generation, corruption and decay. In order to free ourselves, the shortest and the only way is to do 'tab'aat' of our SULTAN - OUR AQA MOULA, and during Ashaara Mubaraka at Marol by his fad'l and ehsaan, he showed us the most simplest and surest way to to achieve emancipation. KALEMA'T NOORANIYAH: ' agar tamara ankh ma thi ek ansoo bhi nikli jase to' maru kam thayee gayoo ' I am sharing with you my humble attempt at the English translation of the first 2 verses of Marasiya Mubaraka ' ABKIKA MOULAYAL HUSAIN’ The ark of Husain anchored at Karbala The domain of Husain radiated from Karbala The Iba'dat of Husain unparalleled in Karbala The mis'k of Husain permeated (the universe) from Karbala O Moula Husain for ever I will shed tears O Moula Husain for ever I will sacrifice myself O my MOULA! O my MOULA HUSAIN! You are Imame - Haq O Husain You are the beacon of TRUTH O Husain You are the voice of KITAB (Quran) O Husain You are the nectar of Universe O Husain O Moula Husain for ever I will shed tears O Moula Husain for ever I will sacrifice myself O my MOULA! O my MOULA HUSAIN!

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95th Milad Mubaraka

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Article-5

True repentance is not merely a feeling, or proclamation of words without sincerity of purpose, but a honest effort on one's part to feel the guilt of having committed a wrong act, be it against the tenets of Deen, or against his fellow brethren etc: and to rectify it and also to seek forgiveness, from the one wronged. Istigfar to be an effective and spiritually uplifting penance, should include a solemn promise or firm resolve, not like our usual run of the mill type New Year resolutions, which have a very short self life and merely give us a good feel factor at the beginning of each year. Istigfar is a firm resolves not to repeat the transgression, or hurt inflicted, and to try and recompense for the wrong done, and negate the harmful effect of the wrong done to a particular person or a group. Merely proclaiming loud and clear I RESOLVE TO will not do, one has to be firm in faith and act upon the resolve., and that is the most difficult part, and precisely to achieve this we need and will have to seek the doa mubarak of Aqa Moula (TUS) and to act upon it during this Ay’aamul Taa’buda’t. Repentance is the characteristic of the human being that sets it apart from animals. We can overcome our baser instincts, that are inherent in us, and whose sole purpose is to impede our spiritual growth, by istigfar, which has the capacity to change our course, and by it, the noble virtues find a favorable environment to thrive and grow, and fight and overcome the evil forces that try to dominate. Repentance depends upon the nature of a person’s consciousness and the strength of his faith. Today as we the mumineen of Kolkata go to attend the first Taheri Mohalla Darees and muzakera’at at Saifee Masjid, I hope and pray that many will make a firm resolve to seek istigfar in the true and pure sense of the word, during Ay’aamul Taa’buda’t I also hope to write and read more on the subject and share my thoughts. Hope many netizens will share their thoughts and their resolve and more important, how they achieved to overcome the hurdles in their triumph to repent – as istigfar it is the most difficult and most noble virtue.

Article-6

During this Ay’yamul Ta’abudaat a concerted effort is being made by mumineen throughout the world, to inculcate the noble virtue of istigfar in their daily lives, and in each bilad-e-imaniyah , muzakerat are being conducted, with Aqa Moula’s doa and raza mubarak, so that mumineen can reflect, be inspired and motivated to attain emancipation by sincere repentance. Akhbar is anwa’ar, which illuminates. Today let us turn the pages of history and on the urs of Mulla Raja saheb ibne Dawood of Morbi, let us be inspired by the riwayat of his noble istigfar. In the context of my previous ‘write-up’ on the subject, wherein I had written – “Repentance depends upon the nature of a person’s consciousness and the strength of his faith” I would like to expound further on the subject. Every mumineen, even small children going to deeni madaris knows the glorious riwayat of Mulla Raja saheb of Morbi, whose worldly means were ordinary, but whose spirituality and devotion were extraordinary, and in his act of istigfar, we mumineen have learnt a great lesson. His faith and devotion and the intensity of his istigfar made him cast away the jewels that came not once but twice, in his bucket, as he fetched for water from the well to do wazoo. For him, water was the need of the time, he knew his faith and conviction were being put to test, and he did not falter, pleaded with fervor and sought repentance, and lo! and behold, the bucket cast in the well for the third time, did contain water, so that he did wazoo, and hurried to pray his maghrib namaz in time.

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This single act was the result of the high consciousness and faith that Mulla Raja saheb had inculcated in his life, by religiously upholding the deeni tenets, living a life of moral virtues, which is very important, not forsaking the world, but at the same time, not being attached to it. These and many other good virtues that Aqa Moula (TUS) exhorts us to aspire for, on different miqaats, made Mulla Raja saheb cast away the jewels. Now every one knows what Mulla Raja saheb in return, by casting away the jewels. If any one per chance does not know, seek the answer from some one, who knows and you will be amazed and inspired to do istigfar during this Ay’uamul Ta’abudaat. To be focused on the goal to be achieved, and the time frame (waqt- miqaat), is also very important. Mulla Raja saheb was fully focused on getting the water from the well, and the time was also running out, and the jewels in the buckets, were an impediment, a distraction and the test of his faith. His all encompassing spirituality resulting from a life lived in accordance with the moral values, and following the tenets of deen and true walaya’t, made him repent, and surely for casting away the inanimate jewels, his progeny was blessed with roohani treasure trove, whose glitter will for ever glow and radiate in the Fatemi firmament. For we mumineen, this riwayat is a great lesson, if our intention of achieving true istigfar is the true purpose. Have true valayat and ma’arefat, inculcate moral values, follow the tenets of deen, aspire for spirituality and akherat, be prepared for the test and challenges of life, be focused on your goals, do the right thing at the right time, and if per chance, if you get a bucket full of jewels when you need water, (figuratively speaking, not in the literal sense) do cast it away, do not be lured by the false gloss of materialistic world. In the words of Syedi Sadikali saheb “ duniya ni tu raghbat thi, seenah ne utaavi le” True istigfar will bring forth a rich harvest in our lives, if the above virtues, are religiously practiced and becomes a way of our lives. More than ten days have already passed, so if something worthwhile is to be achieved, get started now my friends. I am indebted to our Amil saheb, Janab Yunusbhai saheb who yesterday night at the urs majlis of Mulla Raja saheb, narrated the riwayat, in the context of ‘istigfar’ and that started a chain of thoughts, which I enjoy sharing with you all, and hope and pray that, some greater good will be achieved. I am also indebted to my friend and artist Bhai Nooruddin Amarjee who has conceptualized my thoughts in an artistically depicted calligraphy that will be uploaded on my home page, as a link.

Article-7

As stated in my first ‘write up’ during Ay’aamul Ta’abudaat that I would try to read and share my views with netizens on the subject of istigfar. I came across a very concise and in-depth article on repentance on the Net, and here I am sharing whatever little I have learnt, which will help mumineen, who are serious in inculcating the noble virtue in their daily lives. Ay’aamul Ta’abudaat is the most blessed miqaat, to undertake the spiritually cleansing good deed. Istigfar requires five elements 01. The first and foremost is recognition of one’s sin as sin, which largely depends upon one’s intelligence and moral consciousness. Moral consciousness is formed by adhering to the tenets of deen, imbibing values cherished by our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) etc: For an intelligent and devout mumineen, a small transgression is a sin, to those who are seeped in materialism; a sinful act in fact, may not be viewed as such. This is a subject, which requires in-depth analysis. In short, recognition of sin as sin- is the first step. 02. Remorse – it is feeling that one should have if he wants to repent. A feeling of regret, despair and anguish, for having

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failed to maintain one’s moral standard. An intense feeling of being alienated from Allah and His Wali and one’s own spiritual roots, a feeling of having cheated his own self. 03. Desisting from sin – now this is neither a moral or intellectual analysis nor feeling, it is ACTION (‘Just Do it’ is not the only prerogative of NIKE – it should also be a resolve of every mumineen during these A’yamul Ta’budaat) How one has to achieve – by changing of the course, by desisting from the pattern of sinful action, to which one has become addicted, a concerted effort has to be made, by consciously suppressing the thoughts and fantasies about the sinful activity. Once that is achieved, to make a firm commitment never to commit the sinful act. 04. Restitution – which means making good or giving compensation from an injury or hurt inflicted by word or action. It is act of making good, as best as one can, for the damage done. If one has stolen, one must return the object or pay compensation. If one has damaged one’s reputation, one must attempt to correct the injury inflicted. 05. Confession requires uttering of specific wrong done personally to the wronged person. The riwayat of Allah commanding Dawood Nabi to go to the kabr of the wronged person, confess the wrong done, is an important lesson. In other cases pleading to Allah with true fervor to forgive for the sins committed, and going in Hazarat A’liyah in person if possible, or communicating thru Aamil Saheb or raza na saheb, seeking forgiveness for the acts of transgression. Sinfulness is a very deep rooted malady of human existence, and dealing with it calls upon all our spiritual, intellectual, and moral resources – desisting from sin, is the bedrock of true istigfar. More than ten days have already passed, so if something worthwhile is to be achieved, get started now my friends. Ref: Article – Repentance and Forgiveness - David R. Bumenthal

Article-8

In the previous ‘write up’ I had made a reference that -the first and foremost is recognition of one’s sin as sin, which largely depends upon one’s intelligence and moral consciousness. I would like to elaborate further on this important aspect, and share my thoughts with you. We are basically a business community, and at times, the business practices adopted to generate wealth, raises a number of questions. To a reflective person who tries to live a life in conformity with deeni percepts and morals, the means adopted by many, and the life of luxury and leisure that they enjoy, raises doubts and confusion in many a reflective and devout minds. Whenever, such doubts assail it is prudent to seek the answers, and for a true seeker of knowledge, the answers will surely be found. Aqa Moula’s noorani bayans contain a rich repository of Fatemi knowledge and hikma’t. Here I am trying to address the issue, at the same time acknowledging my limitations. I begin with quoting excerpts taken for the Khutba muabaraka of Moulana Ali (S.A.) which provides a clear answer at the very onset. ‘Very often a favored person is being slowly driven (towards punishment) through those favors, and very often an afflicted person is being done good through his affliction. Therefore, O listener! Increase your gratefulness, lessen your haste, and stay at the bounds of your livelihood ‘ (translation) Syedi Sadikali saheb’s nashihat also beautifully articulates the sentiments and gives hidayat, to live within our bounds. Transliteration of a few lines. ‘mat tu duniya ne kare, kai akherat par ikhteya’r eva soda ma tane nooksan che ! nooksan che! .

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‘khoti karamato par, nadaan mat lubhaje bajigaro chale che, ek pao ni rasa par’ ‘apni kad’r vichari , aage kadam ne dharje har ek am’r ma rehje insaf na kara par’ If one is to truly seek, the answers to this So my friends, during this Aya’amul Tabudaat make a firm decision whether, you want to go on making a living, which is in fact, very mundane and bereft of any excitement and challenges or ‘make a life worth living’ It is for you to decide. Irony, which confuses many a minds, can be found. Let me share a few of my thoughts on the subject. It is rightly said that ‘to make a living and to make life worth living are seldom the same thing’ Indeed so, they are poles apart. To make a living, is very mundane whereas to make a life worth living, is challenging and requires wisdom, virtue and foresight. Mulla Raja saheb of Morvi was ‘making a living ‘ by diligently working on a handloom, but he ‘made a life worth living’ by throwing away the jewels that came in his bucket, not once but twice, and pleaded with fervor for woozu water, which he did pull out from the well, in the third attempt. In so doing he made a life worth life living. My niya’t in writing this piece is to remove the doubts and disillusions, to live a life in conformity with deeni percepts, to reflect and learn to get refreshed in the dew of little things (kana’at). How far I have succeeded, only my readers will know. . So my friends, during this Aya’amul Tabudaat make a firm decision whether, you want to go on making a living, which is in fact, very mundane and bereft of any excitement and challenges or ‘make a life worth living’ It is for you to decide. After all, it is your life. IS IT? Now this will set you thinking, seek and you will get the answer Insa Allah.

Article-9

Life is a journey, and all religions of the world ascribe to this view. This world (hayula’h) is viewed as a turbulent ocean, froth with many dangerous and perils, and each individual has to navigate the un-chartered waters. We mumineen are fortunate and blessed to have our Aqa Moula(TUS)as ‘shafina na kaptaan’ who reassures us endlessly to sit in the ‘shafina’ with ‘tamaqqun’. He is the commander of the flotilla, who knows best to ride the choppy waters and navigate us all – in our own small life boats to our journey’s end, in peace, joy and without fear and peril. I was reflecting on this 95th Milad Mubarak logo of a dhow, with sails fluttering and proudly proclaiming that our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) has covered 95 years of his blessed life journey, and leading us, riding the waves, facing the storms, and saving us from the turbulence, so that we may swiftly and easily reach ‘dar-ul karar’ which each soul, aspires, and which each mumin will surely reach. Insa Allah. Searching the net I came to know that the generic name of ship in Arabic is markab and shafina. Fulk is the term used in holy Quran. Dhow are boats, used extensively by the Arabs , where the wooden planks are not nailed, but tied with ropes etc: The word comes from the original Swahili word ‘daw’ (http://nabataea.net) Reading further I came to learn that in these dhows, two main sails are carried, one for night time and bad weather, and the other for day time and fair weather, so that the dhow can gain maximum speed.

http://nabataea.net/

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Inferring from this knowledge, I would like to share a few thoughts with my readers. Aqa Moula (TUS) has with karam and ehsans included us in his flotilla, and in order to keep pace, and hasten our journey in our own life’s boat, we have to unfurl the sails of repentance and forgiveness, because, sails generate thrust by being placed in the wind, and give propulsion. The sails of repentance will protect us from the night storms and bad weather, and by readily forgiving our fellow mumineen, who may have wronged us, we are becoming magnanimous, a quality trait of all our Awliya’h Kiram sahebs. In so doing we are in fact letting go the hurt and pain, and thereby, by unfurling the sails of ‘forgiveness’, we are receiving favorable winds, which help us in achieving top notch speed. If we find ourselves drifting away from course at times, the jibbing and tacking of the sails of repentance and forgiveness will help us in correcting the course and staying with the flotilla. During Ay’yamul Ta’abudaat a very favorable wind is blowing my friends!! Unfurl your sails of repentance and forgiveness, take in maximum draft, which will give your boat the desired lift to ride the choppy waters, and be ahead in the flotilla. AHOY! My dear friends! Unfurl the sails, ride the waves with a thankful heart, with joy and in humility, and get refreshed spiritually, as you ride the waves of life.

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96th Milad Mubaraka

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Article-10

TAFADI is the commitment arising from 'taffakur'. True tafadi (fidagiri) is an outcome of the journey which begins at the head (Aql) and reaches the heart. The very first image that comes to one's mind at the mention of unconditional love and sacrifice is the one of the burning candle and the moth attracted towards it to be engulfed. The image of the burning candle and the self destructing moth has given rise to whole genre of poems, prose and imagery. TAFADI for mumineen does mean unselfish love and sacrifice for his Moula, but it is as a result of true 'ma'refat' and not under influence of charm and impulse.Romancing has robbed sacrifice of its true meaning,it has got mixed up with with beauty, charm and sensuality. When a mumin does 'tafadi' for his Moula, it is not merely a flutter of the heart, but it is a commitment, which will be tested time and again, it is commitment where one has to make very difficult choices. Surrendering your free will is an act of the mind. It is true 'tafadi' when one commits himself to a continued dying to one's self, than to die in one moment. An impulsive dash into the flames of the candle, is easy than what Syedi Sadik Ali Saheb extols to mumineen in his 'Nashihat'

هرواين ككهري هر ككرهردٍ سي وسر جسس هن جاهل ًا هراهىحب ًاداى تى هرجسس هن

هرواتا اككاري تىشهىة هتي هري جاجسس لىككىمهسس جيىسس ؛ اهىو تى مري جا جسس

We need a will as well as an emotion to truly love our Moula.Chivalry in 'tafadi' has nothing do with the sweetness of the appearance or charm. It has everything to do with an awakened mind, and the tenderness of the heart,determined to service. TAFADI means to 'let go and rejoice' here I would like to point out a very subtle difference between 'let go' and 'giving up' We may give up but still regret,but in 'letting go' for your Moula there is no regret but true happiness. There are many examples of mumineen, who at the instance of Aqa Moula (TUS) have 'let go' their lifestyles, their livelihood, their habits, their materialistic attachments, and have found everlasting fulfillment. By 'letting go' you become part of the radiance that is emanating from the flame. There is a difference between the moth being engulfed by the flame, and a mumin being merged with the flame, receiving the radiance. If you go to look at it, the entire cosmos is as a result of sacrifice, which perpetuates all the aspects of life. If you look at the plant and vegetation’s, we find them harnessing the energy of the sun, and transferring them into fruits, vegetable and cereals for the consumption of humans and animals. Likewise the animals in their turn are sacrificed and domesticated, for the good of humans. It is a long chain of sacrifices made in the cosmos, but in our context, if a mumin does true 'tafadi' for his Moula, within his short life span, he will be emancipated.

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In 'tafadi' we do not seek worldly riches or the promised hereafter. We do not seek at all. What we seek is the happiness of our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) Like a moth attracted towards the flame, we are attracted towards the spiritual radiance emanating from our Moula, just to be submerged in it.Our orldly striving ends, once we submerge ourselves in his spiritual radiance, his overpowering and most inviting gaze. He readily accepts us in his fold, with a glowing smile, which strikes a thousand lights in our heart. We seek no more, all our striving ends, it is he who will now seek for us glowing and never ending hereafter that is promised. This is TAFADI

Article-11

TAFADI - is derived from the root Arabic word ‘fida’ which is widely used by mumineen, and it means unconditional sacrifice. ‘Tafadi’ is much more encompassing and elevating than doing ‘khidmat’. While doing ‘khidmat’ one gets some tangible things in return, such as, titles, status, recognition etc: in the society, whilst ‘tafadi’ is unconditional sacrifice resulting out of pure love and affection, seeking nothing in return. We generally recite in loud chorus – ‘lakho jaan thi fida thai javu’ but does our action reflect our words. It is time for introspection, and what better time than the 40 days of Ay’yamul Ta’abudat, when if one is sincere in purpose, he is sure to receive the nazara’at and doa mubarak of his beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) To implement our words into action is indeed a difficult proposition. However, during Ay’yamul Ta’abudaat, our efforts if sincere and done with true valayat and ma’refat will surely yield rich rewards. In order to inculcate the noble virtue of ‘tafadi’ and to remain focused and measure our progress, we generally set bench marks. Akbar is anwa’ar which illuminates, and by turning the pages of our rich history, we find many ordinary persons, mumineens like you and me, by true ‘tafadi’ and valyaat have attained eminence and posterity and spiritual bliss and manazil e roohani in akherat. The ‘tafadi’ with which they served their Moula, and sacrificed for their belief should be a source of inspiration, to all of us. The first converts of Islam - many men of very humble origins bore with fortitude and courage the hardships perpetuated by Koreish chieftains opposed to the teachings of RASULALLAH (S.A.) The hills of RAMDAH and the place called BATHA became scenes of cruel tortures. BILAL the first Muezzin of Islam was taken each day to Batha by his master Ommeya, son of Khalf, when the heat of the sun was greatest and there exposed him bare back, with his face to the burning sun, and placed on his chest, a large block of stone with the words - ‘thou shalt remain until thou art dead or thou has abjured. He answered to the heathen Koreish ‘I would not wish to be with my family, my substance, and my children, on condition that Mohammad (S.A.) was only to be pricked with a thorn.’ This was the ‘tafadi’ of BILAL – an ordinary mortal who attained posterity. When Rasulallah (S.A.) did Hijrat from Mecca Moazzam and arrived at Medina, he performed an act, unparalleled in history. He assembled the Ansars and to the care of each of them, he entrusted the Muhajereens, who were bereft of their possession and livelihood. They readily agreed to take care of their brethren although their own means were limited, and were themselves living a frugal life. They did not show their preference, but gladly took into their fold those whom Rasulallah (S.A.) entrusted. This then was the ‘tafadi’ of the Ansar, people like you and me with limited means, but a large heart. Likewise, numerous incidents and events may be sighted from the glorious lives of Ahle - Baite Rasulallah (S.A.)

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The last mubarak safar of IMAM HUSAIN (S.A.) to Karbala is full of events where the followers of IMAM HUSAIN (S.A.) had shown exemplary courage and conviction in their belief – During the course of journey IMAM HUSAIN (S.A.) calls ZOHER BIN KAIN who is traveling in another caravan. The messenger of Imam (S.A.) comes at a time when Zoher is having lunch. He immediately leaves the thal, comes in the presence of Imam (S.A.) He immediately joins with the Karbala bound caravan. He returns to his people, divorces his wife making ample provisions for her, distributes his possession amongst his family, and rushes back to become SAHEED in the path of Allah. On the night of ASHURA Imam Husain (S.A.) assembles his Ashabe Kiram and after a moving address tells them to leave him alone to fight Yazid and his henchmen. We mumeneen know the answer they gave. Led by none other than ABBASE ALAMBARDAR each one got up to say that Moula we will never ever forsake you, even if we are made to die a hundred times. This is ‘tafadi’ in its all-encompassing meaning. Countless are such events in the annals of our Fatemi Dawat,and our glorious history is resplendent with ‘tafadi’ of humble servants, ordinary mortals like you and me, who attained glory and posterity. Let us serve our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) with ‘tafadi’, let us inculcate this noble virtue in our daily life. May Allah grant our bawa shafiq, who is nawjawan in doing ‘tafadi’ of his Moula Imam-uz-zaman (S.A.) a long and healthy life with sehato – aafiyat-ta-kiyamat. Ameen.

Article-12

TAFADI - in the context of a mumin is an out pouring of true valayat and ma’arefat. As emphasized in my earlier article, when a mumin does 'tafadi' for his Moula, it is not merely a flutter of the heart, but it is a commitment, which will be tested time and again, it is commitment where one has to make very difficult choices. The emotions of love and sacrifice for his Moula, no doubt provides the power and thrust to the soul, to which the mind (Aql) - by taffakur and true ma’arefat, gives the right direction and flight, so that by the virtue of ‘tafadi’ a mumin submerges and becomes one, in the ocean of radiance emanating from the ruhani personality of his Moula. How can such an all encompassing ‘tafadi’ be achieved ? As stated earlier, it is not merely proclamation of words, it is faith in action. Tafadi is to be achieved by virtuous actions, and virtuous actions can only be achieved by following the tenets of Deen , the seven da’aims, and inculcating akhlaq mahmoodah (virtuous character) in day to day living. As valayat is the first and foremost, ‘jem Moula kahe em karo’ is the first step. TAFADI - is an inward development of character, which ultimately leads to an out ward expression of love and sacrifice. An all encompassing tafadi, in order to be realized, has to achieved in parts. MBA students, studying Operational Research (OR) are well aware of Frederick W Taylor, considered to be the father of scientific management, who developed job fractionalization process, where each smaller task could be studied, to find the most efficient way to accomplish best results. Gilbreth’s theory also broke a complex task, into component parts, so that each can be fully understood. (Ref: The 10 day MBA – Steven Silbiger) The herein below graphic, will give the readers an idea of what is being conveyed.

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During this Milad Mubrak Aqa Moula (TUS) has given irshaad munira that mumineen should memorize Qur’an surats till surat Al-Balad at least, so one should put his heart and mind in memorizing, and if he achieves in so doing, he will be achieving a part. Slowly and surely, his inward development will one day lead to an outward expression of love and sacrifice. Indeed it is a long and arduous road, but many have achieved it in their short life span, and we always remember them with gratitude and love. They have shown us the way, and let us be inspired by them. ‘kabro ma jeev ta che, woh Bari na awliyah De che jawab, je koi tehne nida kare ‘ - Syedi Sadik ali Saheb If one is to turn the pages of Fatemi History, there are countless, who have done true tafadi. I will just name a few for the sake of brevity. The tafadi of Moulai Adam – vali ul Hind to readily pray namaz behind sakka (water carrier) which was a direct result of valayat and akhlaq mahmoodah such as, sadaq uz –zamir (dil si sachawwoo) Ikhlas fil amal ( dil ni sachchai thi amal karvu) and many more, inculcated during his life time. Likewise the khusi of his Moula Syedna Abdul Taiyeb Zakiuddin (R.A.) was paramount, which made Syedi Khanji fir saheb from removing the filth and garbage without remorse, from the place were ‘sabaks’ were being held. It was tafadi resulting from behtar akhlaq and valayat that made Moula Raj bin Moula Hasan – vali e Hind, to take on the garb of ‘fakiri’ and wander through mumineen mohallas giving hidayat during the fitnat of Jafar la’een. During these troubled and challenging times, it was nothing but tafadi of Buja bai, the daughter of Kasim bin Hasan Takiyuddin saheb to readily agree to ‘nikah’ with their khadim Musa Khan. It was tafadi of stalwarts like Sheikha Mujal and countless others who willingly laid down their life, for their Moula and their beliefs. If one is to go into the details of their illustrious lives one will surely find that all of them were embodiment of valayat and behtar akhlaq. One can go on and on, and akhbar is truly a’nwaar. Hope in my very small humble way I have been able to convey my thoughts on TAFADI-, during Ayy’amul Ta’abudaat of 96th Milad Mubarak of Aqa Moula (TUS) May Allah grant my beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) sehato-a’afiyat-ta-kiyamat. Ameen

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97th Milad Mubaraka

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Article-13

THE FATHER AND SON REALATIONSHIP THE REAL MEANING

ALLAH had made it known long long ago to Nuh Nabi what the GREAT LORD GOD – THE CREATOR AND SUSTAINER OF THE WORLD was looking for in the father and son relationship. HE was very specific, the Quran Ay’at states about Nuh pleading with Allah with regard to his son Ha’m, who had climbed on a high mountain to escape the surging flood waters, which Nuh Nabi, for sure knew will engulf everything including the tallest mountain. ‘And Nuh called upon his Lord and said – “O my Lord ! Verily my son is of my family! (Ayat 45 : Surah Hud ) HE said: “ O Nuh! Surely he is not of your family; verily his work is unrighteous, ….. (Ayat 46: Surah Hud) Thus ALLAH made it very clear at the onset that although Ha’m was his biological son, in effect Ha’m because of his disobedience, was not his son in the real sense of what ALLAH perceives. Here in this context, the biological relationship loses its significance. In modern times also, with very rapid advances in human embryonic sciences, somatic cell nuclear transfers, the edifice of biological parents, so long standing like a colossal, is beginning to totter. The signs are out there for anyone to see, the role of biological parents is being undermined from many fronts. Modern science states that in a few years’ time, there will be no need of a biological father. Exciting times indeed, but ALLAH knew what was to come, so at the very onset, HE laid it down in CLEAR WRITING that although Ha’m was of the loins of Nuh Nabi, because of his actions and disbelief, his ego and haughtiness he was not his real son. Aqa Moula (TUS) has been alluding to this father and son relationship in his numerous va’az mubarak and baya’ns, and for one who introspects on them, one who has been fortunate to attend sabaks and become aware of the esoteric meaning, will readily understand that in our Deen, it is explicitly clear, that father alludes at all times to our roohani bawa shafi’q – Aqa Moula (TUS) and mumineen of all tabaka should strive like dutiful son to inculcate the noble traits and characteristics of our roohani bawa shafi’q. During this Ayya’mul Ta’abudat 1429H it is this very concept, that has been selected as the theme and each and every one of us should strive to achieve, like a dutiful son the mansha mubaraka that beloved father has for us, which he expects from us. It is just between him and me, how fortunate are we? Kalemaat Nooraniyah : ‘Tame sagla dekho chho, mamluk e Ale Mohammad bawaji saheb ni misal chhu –til barabar pan farak nathi, Raat din mari koshish yeh che ke tamne mari misal banavi dau. Mumineen ni jama’at tame koshish ma mane saath aapo. Mari misal tahava vaaste ghanu karo, ghanu karo, thakee na javo, susti na karjo. So it becomes imperative and we mumineen are duty bound make an all out effort, as our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) at such a ripe old age of 97 years is sparing no efforts to make us mumineen like him. It is Aqa Moula’s azeem ehsaanaat. Now the question – is it possible? Why not, if you have the will because his Doa Mubarak is there with you. It is you, who will have to make an effort. I will just give two sterling examples from our glorious history. I will keep it short as every one I am sure has heard it in va’az mubarak on several occasions. One is that of Salmaan al Farisi, who was born in far away Persia, and in the quest of knowledge he traveled to many places and finally came to Madinah, and with his love and devotion for Nabi Muhammad (SA) came to be regarded as one of the family of the Prophet (SA) Salmaan minna Ahl-ul-Bait ! The other is that of the two sons of Moulai Jivanji - Syedna Mohammad Izzuddin (RA) and Syedna Taiyeb Zainuddin (RA) being called from Aurangabad to Surat in the hazarat of Syedna Abdoali Saiffudin (RA) We all know that within no time, not

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one but two sahebs achieved exalted status. Moulana Abdoali Saifuddin (RA) took care of even the smallest aspect of tarbiyat, like how a Dai has to walk. Another sterling example of the methodology of achieving the status of nearness to our roohani bawa shafiq’ the goal of every dutiful son can be found in the simply sweet nasi’hat of Syedna Abdoali Saifudddin Saheb (RA) to his son Syedna Mohammad Badruddin (RA) when he was of tender age. In Kikabhai Jaldi padho Moulana Abdoali Saifuddin says: mara bawaji Zaki, jayee Ujjain jhuki leedhi shaan malaki ( humility is one way of achieving nearness to your Moula) so beautiful and true the next lines rehjo sidha ne sama kahe, Shezada nama je nama Ra’b ne gama Kikabhai jaldi padho Our glorious Fatemi history is resplendent with many such examples. So you see there first has to be a WILL and if your ni’yat is a’laa – the way will surely be found and the goal surely will be achieved. It is possible but not so easy, but if one is willing to strive with determination and purpose, even a small distance covered towards the goal, will make Aqa Moula (TUS) our beloved father very happy and surely proud of his dutiful son. He knows are limitations as he knows also our intentions. To begin with, just take a single trait of his character, and start inculcating it in your person. Slowly but surely, you will as a dutiful son, be becoming like unto your spiritual father. This is my humble message and my reflections, which I share with mumineen on Ayya’mul Ta’budaat 1429H

Article-14

THE FATHER AND SON REALATIONSHIP THE REAL MEANING Kalemaat Nooraniyah : ‘Tame sagla dekho chho, mamluk e Ale Mohammad bawaji saheb ni misal chhu –til barabar pan farak nathi, Raat din mari koshish yeh che ke tamne mari misal banavi dau. Mumineen ni jama’at tame koshish ma mane saath aapo. Mari misal tahava vaaste ghanu karo, ghanu karo, thakee na javo, susti na karjo. til barabar pan farak nathi is a most common and appropriate phrase used to signify that two persons, identities or things are of similar nature, you cannot distinguish one from another. Let us reflect on this Kalemaat Norraniyah in a little depth. Here Aqa Moula (TUS) is not referring to the outward physical appearance but the inward spirituality, thought process, character and trait developments, a mind and soul attuned in all respects to each other, ‘til barabar pan farak nahi’ in respect of intellectual and physical responses to a given situation. Although Aqa Moula (TUS) has very similar outward physical appearance, specially during his growing up years with that of Muqad’das Syedna Taher Saifuddin Moula (RA) Glancing and comparing old photographs will prove this point, but more significant than this, is the development of complete personality where an internal personality and character, completely attuned to his personality and character. On reflection the meaning of Kalemaat Nooraniyah will become crystal clear that Aqa Moula (TUS) wants us to be like him in totality. Thus his address as a benevolent father encompasses not only men, but also women and children, all are his

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sons. For here it is not merely physical characteristics or outward appearance, but and inward mind, soul and body development, that he is striving to achieve. ‘till barabar pan farak nathi.’ What Aqa Moula (TUS) refers specifically by saying ‘tamne mari misal banavi dau’ is precisely the development of the entire personality, and not merely outward appearance. It is Aqa Moula’s singular karam and ehsaan that he has given us imani siyar, has attired us in the clothes that he himself wears. This is relatively easy but to inculcate the Akhlaqs is where the onus really rests, and Aqa Moula (TUS) knows how difficult it is, and so he says – ‘ghanu karo, ghanu karo, thakee na jao, susti na karjo’ Which in effect means to cultivate piety, purity, love, contentment, selflessness and all the noble traits that radiate in the personality of Aqa Moula (TUS) He knows, how difficult it is for his mumineen to inculcate Akhlaq Mahmoodah (noble traits) in their personality, it requires sustained efforts, and for this very reason he exhorts us to ‘ghanu karo, ghanu karo, thakee na jao, susti na karjo’ It is only because of the immense love and adoration that mumineen have of their Moula (TUS) and his Doa Mubarak that we can succeed to an extent in this endeavor. Now the question how can we achieve this noble status? To begin with, we have to first efface ourselves, our pride, our anger, our hurt, our baser and lowly nature, our fickle temperament, our loose morals etc: First we have to cleanse our selves. Once we have achieved this, we will be like a clear mirror, ready to receive the light and sparkle of the noble traits and virtues of our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) You have to become like a good soil. That’s it!! This much you have to do in this life, for in your good mud, Aqa Moula (TUS) will plant a seed, and believe me, this very seed will give a bountiful harvest in this world and a’kherat. You can doubt your own ability, but if you have faith in Aqa Moula (TUS) and if he says, you can move a mountain, you will no doubt, be able to do it. There are numerous real life examples, amongst mumineen, who had initially doubted their ability, but their faith in their Moula (TUS) made them achieve the seemingly impossible. So on his 97th Milad Mubarak, let us resolve to inculcate the noble traits, let us embark on a spiritual self-cleansing journey first, and thereafter try to inculcate Akhlaq Mehmoodah in our personality. Just to name a few: Sadaq-un-niyyat - sacchi niyyat rakhwoo Al-ikhlaas fil Amal - Amal ma ikhlaas karwoo Az-zohad fid Duniya - duniya ma kam shauq rakhvo Al Qana’at - santosh Kazam-ul-ghaiz - ghussa ne gilee jawoo There are a 152 in all, so you see, the journey is long and now that we know that it not merely the outward appearance, imani siya’ar but the inward development of total personality, that Aqa Moula (TUS) desires of us, he says ‘raat din mari koshis yeh che ke tamne mari misal banavi dau’ We all know, that it is Aqa Moula (TUS) who is working un tirelessly all these years, it is a living miracle that , even at the age of 97 his Will to carry on with his mission, is on account of the unbound love and affection that he has for his mumineen. Our beloved Bawasaheb Moula (father) merely asks us –

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Mumineen ni jama’at tame koshish ma mane saath aapo - this is what he desires of us, and we should never ever fail to be a part of this noble endeavor. Hope I have been able to convey the real meaning behind the Father and Son relationship, in the context of the Kalemaat Nooraniyah to some extent. The message going out loud and strong on this 97th Milad Mubarak is that besides outward appearances, mannerism and practices, the real meaning is to develop

Article-15

AKHBAR IS ANWA’R The Will of Allah and the tireless zeal of Awliyah Kiram to work for the redemption of Mankind Muhammad (S.A.) set out from Mecca in the year 619 C.E. to bring the Quraish polytheists into the fold of Islam. He went with his freed slave Zaid bin Harithhah to Al – Taif a prosperous town having fruit and vineyard farms, located at a distance of 60 kms from Mecca. He first approached the family of Umair, reckoned as among the nobility of the town. All the three sons of Umair turned a deaf year and used abusive language, as regards the cause for which he had been striving. For ten days, he stayed in al Taif, delivering the message of Islam to all the noble people, one after another, but to no avail. Contrary to Arab tradition of hospitality, he was hooted at and pelted with stones, and obliged to flee pursued by a merciless crowd. So much so, that blood flowed down his legs and thus tired and exhausted, he took refuge in one of the numerous fruit farms, and rested against the wall of a vineyard belonging to Walid bin Ukaba . Seeing the plight of a stranger he sent with his slave Adras, who was a practicing Christian, a bunch of luscious grapes – 18 in all. Nabi Muhammad (S.A.) quenched his thirst and felt refreshed, and prayed for Walid, who himself died a polythist, fighting the Muslims, but in his descendents, the flower of Islam bloomed, so much so, that as a direct result of Nabi Muhammad (S.A.) prayer, on that eventful day at Al – Taif the Fatemi Dawat of Yemen was resplendent with 18 Doat ul Mutlaqeen, the first and foremost being Syedna Ali bin Mohammad Walid (RA) whose story of tawajo and khusu in well known in the annals of Fatemi Dawat, and it is not mere coincidence that Syedna Mohammad bin Walid (RA) wrote 18 kutubs, and lived till the ripe old age of 100 years, and till end, use to go to Masjid to offer Namaz. At Al Taif at a time when the whole world seemed to have turned against him, Muhammad (S.A.) turned to his Lord, and started praying; those touching words are still preserved, as those through which his wronged soul expressed distress and anguish. HE WAS TIRED AND WOUNDED BUT AT THE SAME TIME CONFIDENT OF THE HELP OF HIS LORD. ‘O Allah! To you alone I complain of my weakness, my insufficient ability and my insignificance before the people. You are the Most Merciful of the merciful. You are the Lord of the helpless and the weak. O Lord of mine! Into whose hands would You abandon me: into the hands of any unsympathetic distant relative, who would angrily frown at me or to the enemy, who has been given control over my affairs? But if your wrath does not fall upon me, there is nothing for me to worry about! Your pardon is ample enough for me; I seek pardon in the light of your Face, which illuminates the darkness, fixing the affairs in this world and in the Hereafter.

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May it never be that I should incur your wrath, or that you should be wrathful to me. And there is no power nor resource, but yours alone. After bracing hostility of the people of al Taif, Muhammad (S.A.) slowly proceeded towards Mecca, where he had been persecuted by the heathen Quraish led by Abu Jahl and Abu Lahab. He recalled how the early converts, simple people and freed slaves, like Ammar bin Yasir, Bilal, Khabab bin Al- Arath, Sumaiyah and many more had braved unspeakable tortures. Muhammad (S.A.) himself had to bear taunts and uncouth behavior. Once while he was praying in Kaba, Utaibah bin Abu Lahab threw intestines of camel, while he was in sujood. Ma Fatema (S.A.) was a helpless witness to this cowardly act, and cried a lot as she cleaned the back of her beloved father. After feeling refreshed by the prayer he had offered to His Lord and bracing to face the hostility of the polytheist, as Muhammad (S.A.) made his way towards Mecca, angel Jibraeel came along with the angel of the Mountains, and said:’O Muhammad (S.A.) Order what you wish. If you like, I will let Al-Akhshabain (name of the mountain surrounding Mecca) to fall on them.’ Muhammad (S.A.) was sent as Rehmatul –lil –‘Alam’in, and in spite of inhuman tortures and persecutions, this is what he said: “No, I hope that Allah will let them beget children, who will worship Allah alone, and will worship none besides Him” (Sahih Muslim 2/109) How prophetic were his words, and the general good of the people and humanity seeped, in every word and action of his. I have narrated the Al Taif incident in detail to give a historical perspective and to convey the fact that Nabi, Vasi, Imam and Awaliya Kiram, Doat Mutlaqeen through out the ages, have suffered personal humiliation and unspeakable tortures, but when it comes to, the general good of humanity at large, they are ready to forgive, and are ready to accept the Will of Allah in all their actions and belief. Ibrahim Nabi (S.A.) readily accepted the Will of Allah, if it be so that he would be thrown in to the raging fire. Like wise Ali Moula would never kill an enemy, but only in the cause of Allah and Islam, and not against personal hatred and anger. We all know of the famous incident in the battle of Shiffin, when he let go from his clutches and sure death, an enemy who had the audacity to spit of his face. Like Muhammad (S.A.) who spared the polytheist Meccans from sure annihilation if he had willed that Al- Akshabain would come crushing down on Mecca, a riwayat from the battle field of Shiffin, will reinforce the belief that likewise his Vasi Ali Moula (S.A.) would not put to sword any one from whose loins he knew, will come children who will worship Allah Alone. During the battle of Shiffin, Moula Ali’s trusted lieutenant Malik ul Ashtar once came in the Camp of Moula Ali (S.A.) and he was seen smiling to himself, it appeared that some thoughts were making him happy. Moula Ali (S.A.) read what was going on in the mind of Malik ul Ashtar, the reason for his being so pleased, and said ‘ I know what you are thinking today, that you have put to sword a greater number of enemies than me, but know this Malik, that I have killed those, from whose loins would come the enemies of Islam, and spared those from whom servants of Allah will be born, where as you have killed knowing not, as you do not posses the knowledge that I posses. So it is not the number of enemies killed, but killing of those who are damned for ever to burn in hell, and if they beget children, they will be the enemies of Allah and a cause of concern and bringers of harm to the believers. Likewise, on the burning sands of Karbala also the greater cause of dawat towards rightful Islam and the deep concern for redemption of mankind was witnessed in the actions of Imam Husain (S..A.) In spite of inhuman treatment meted out to him, his family and ashab kiram, by Yezidi forces, depriving them of water for three days, and bent on total annihilation of the House of Nabi (S.A.) on that fateful day of Ashura, Imam Husain (S.A.) once again tried to bring the wayward into the fold of Islam, and personally set out, towards the enemy camp and recited the Khutba.

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What were the long term implications of this action of Imam Husain (S.A.) we do not know, but we know for sure that Hur bin Rihayi left the enemy ranks and fell at the feet of Moula, seeking forgiveness, and getting the sharaf of being the first martyr of Karbala. Likewise Awaliya Kiram through out the ages have had the greater good of humanity, at heart, and have never ever wavered in their mission, in spite facing parochial attitude of a section of the people, resulting in unwarranted animosity and hatred towards them. Syedna Taher Moula Saifuddin (RA) had called a conference of Muslim Ummah for al-masjid al Aqsa, and had donated a large amount, he had agreed to become the Chancellor of Aligarh and played a role model for its students and guided the University for 15 long years. In spite of his humanitarian efforts, some disgruntled elements in Egypt declared a fatwa that he was a Kafir and his blood of halal. Syedna Taher Moula Saifuddin (RA) did not waver but he traveled to Cairo to win over the hearts and minds of the Muslim Ummah and to revive the glory and love for Fatemiyeen!! The glorious zaman of our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) is resplendent with numerous humanitarian episodes that can easily fill a book, if one is to narrate each and every one in detail. For the purpose of the article the following will suffice, which goes to show that from Nabi Adam (S.A.) to our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) in a continuous unbroken chain, our Awaliya Kiram have always strived for the betterment of humanity at large. As we celebrate the 97th Milad Mubarak in the true Fatemi Traditions, and as a community we look forward to celebrate the 100th Milad Mubrak, which Allah Willing, will embrace all the regal pomp and traditions of the glorious Fatemi Era, and will become a rallying point of the Muslim Ummah in particular and the world in general. Aqa Moula (TUS) is carrying on with the ethos of humanitarian service in sync with the present modern day developments. The just recent donation of a large amount to Dubai Cares is a case in point. In the course of renovation of al- Anwar, when it was necessitated that an existing school be demolished, Aqa Moula (TUS) built a larger and better school for the children. Aqa Moula (TUS) represented the Indian Muslims in the Mehrajan al- Islami conference in London, and accepted Chancellor Post of Aligarh Muslim Universtiy. We muminen know well that in each of Aqa Moula’s amal, there are countless hikmats, which have far reaching consequences, for the betterment of humanity at large and mumineen in particular. This Article has been published in the Salgirah Issue of Badre Muneer 1429H

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98th MiladMubaraka

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Article-16

We are in the midst of celebrating the 98th Milad Mubarak of our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) and are carrying with us the visions and dream of celebrating his 100th Milad Mubarak Insa Allah. I have been giving a serious thought on the subject of ‘Fakhr’ (Pride) which is the main theme of this year’s Ayyamul Ta’budaat. Let me share with you all, my thoughts on the subject. Pride resulting out of material possessions, I need not elaborate here, is haughtiness, a negative and self destructive trait. Fakhr emanating out of things spiritual and non-tangible, adds luster and releases positive energies for the development of the mind, soul and body. Fakhr is conducive to mental health. When we have self confidence and self respect, we thrive. Ask any expert on behavioral science, and they will agree that it is so. No doubts here. Now the question – How best to inculcate this positive Fakhr? – As humans we are attuned and attached to all things material. Aqa Moula’s Kalema’t Nooraniyah, surely shows us the way: ‘Ay mara pyara farzando! Tamne koyee chiz nu fakhr hoyee to’ Imam Husain na matam ane buka nu fakhr hoyee. Koi beezee duniya Ni chiz nu nahi. Ay mara pyara farzando! Imam Husain Ni shadaat tamne parhi ne sunawoo, yeh mara vaste fakhr, ane ehna si mari sehat and badan ma quwwat. Haqiqi fakhr su? Ke A’al – e- Mohammad ane yeh sagla Na doaato Ni gulami. Yeh haqiqi fakhr! So here we have it. In one of his earlier bayan Mubarak Aqa Moula (TUS) said: ‘je waqt mumin Abde Syedna likhe che, to’ ehne fakhr mehsoos Thai che, ke Mari nisbat mara Moula si chhe’ In order to understand, appreciate and finally inculcate the positive Fakhr in our daily lives, the historical incidents from the pages of our glorious Akhbar, albeit only a few have been taken by me, there are countless, but my knowledge is limited. I hope others will also share their knowledge. The purpose is to have an insight on the subject. In many cases I will be just giving the thread of narration, and not the details, as every one surely knows all the riwayats, which I hope to refer, just the points, during this Ayyamul Ta’budaat. This being by first post on the subject. Your comments will provide me with guidance and motivation, for which I will be ever grateful. FAKHR of Ibrahim Nabi on the WILL of ALLAH - Everyone knows the riwayat of Ibrahim Nabi (SA) when he was about to be thrown in fire – Jibraeel was bewildered at the reply Ibrahim (SA) gave that I seek nothing from Allah – what happened – ‘kulna ya naar kooni bardan va salama’ – Ibrahim (SA) said to Jibraeel - I felt ashamed to seek deliverance when Khuda ni hiqmat was that I should be martyred. The Fakhr was in accepting what was willed. A lesson to be learnt. FAKHR of Musa Nabi on the FATIH IN ALLAH - He goes to the court of the mighty and most powerful Firaun with his vasi Haroon, both carrying nothing with them, but the walking stick. Every one knows how he managed to subdue and baffle the haughty Firaun and his courtiers.

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For Musa Nabi (SA) the Fakhr was in reposing full FAITH IN ALLAH. We mumineen by reposing full faith in our Aqa Moula (TUS) can overcome seemingly difficult obstacles.

Article-17

FAKHR of Nabi Mohammad (SA) in the MESSAGE OF ALLAH Mohammad (SA) was the personification of noble traits. ‘innaka la’lla kholoqin ameem’ ‘He attained the height of eminence by his perfection He dispelled the darkness (of the World) by his grace.’ (balagal o’la be kamalehi…) Such was the noble character of our Nabi (SA) He suffered with fortitude and courage the ignoble acts and persecution of the Quraish -taunts, ridicules, throwing of camels entails on his person, while he prayed at Kabah. The Quraish went to extremes. Muhammad (SA) did not waver a bit, when it came to delivering the Message of Allah. Fakhr in his being the Messenger of Allah was paramount. Here I am relating a historical incidence, which will help readers in understanding and inculcating Fakhr in our belief system and faith, which we hold dear. No compromises in this matter if we inculcate Fakhr. So in this post, I am narrating the incident in detail, how Muhammad (SA) spurned the enticement of the Quraish and his reply to Moulana Abu Talib (SA). The Quraish came to Muhammad (SA) with temptations of worldly honor and wealth, to entice him from spreading his Message. One day Utbah son of Rabi’ah approached him and said “ O son of my brother, thou are distinguished by the qualities and descent. We have a proposition to make to thee, think well. When Muhammad (SA) said: ‘ Speak Abul – Walid, I am listening’ He said, “O nephew ! If you are doing all this with the view of getting wealth, we will join together to give you greater riches than any Quraishite possessed. If ambition moves you, we will make you are chief ………” When Utbah had finished laying before Muhamad (SA) all the worldly enticement, Nabi (SA) recited the verses from Surah Fussilat (41) and Utbah was mesmerized and went back to his people saying Muhammad (SA) is attached to his Message of Allah and cares not for the worldly riches and positions. He advised that he be given full freedom to pursue his goals. But his counsel fell on deaf years. Several Quraish deputations were made to Moulana Abu Talib (SA) requesting him to stop his nephew from preaching against their religion of idol worship. The Fakhr of Nabi (SA) in the Message of Allah was so very profound, that he said to his dear uncle Moula Abu Talib (SA) “ O my uncle ! by Allah if they put the sun in my right hand and the moon in my left, that I abandon this course, I would not abandon it until Allah has made me victorious or I perish therein” So this is real Fakhr that our Aqa Moula (TUS) is alluding to in this 98th Milad Mubarak – Ayyamul Ta’budaat. When it comes to matter of Faith and belief system, we should rise up and proclaim, that I can be humble, patient, understanding, accommodating, you may at times misunderstand me as weak, but I AM NOT UP FOR SALE in matter of my Faith, and my Deen. My Fakhr will not brook any short cuts and compromises.

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It is time of introspection friends, look inward , and make a self assessment. It is empowerment, the concept widely taught in all Business Schools and very current in Business Lectures around the world. Here I would like to recall the bayan mubarak of Aqa Moula (TUS) when he said - ‘Mumineen, tamne koi gareeb samjhi ne ijan ape to na jajo, hargij na jajo’ This is empowerment of the financially weak, the instilling of Fakhr being a mumin, although not well off financially. However, there is a subtle difference. If you have Pride (haughtiness) then empowerment denotes controlling others. On the other hand Fakhr denotes, taking charge of your life, a more profound aspect of self development. Let us inculcate this Fakhr in our daily lives. In the next post I hope to write on Fakhr in ubudiyaat. Insah Allah. Moulana Ali (SA) the perfect embodiment of this noble trait, comes to mind readily.

Article-18

Fakhr in ubudiy’at The genesis of this most noblest of ‘ husn ul khulq’, an integral part of our Deen and the emancipation of our souls, is reflected in all its glory,in the life of Moulana Ali (SA) He was fakhr in ubudiy’at personified, he set an example to be followed by the never ending chain of Imams (SA) Doat Mutlaqeen and Awalia ul Kiram, who by example have tried to inculcate this virtue in mumineen through out the ages, for their emancipation. Ubudiy’at is the surest way and as Syedi Sadikali Saheb has said : ‘ Sadiqali ehva Moula na ni ubudiyat, ma humami che paar hayua thava khatir ehni haqiqi gulami che ‘ (humami refers to becoming leaders of men – kingship) Before proceeding further, I would like to share my views, specially with my young friends , who may be wondering at the paradoxes. Yes indeed – fakhr in ubudiy’at and ‘gulami ma humami’ are paradoxes. A paradox is a seemingly contradictory statement, that is none the less true. Like most paradoxes in life, ubudiyaat ma fakhr and humami have to be experienced, as it is born out of true love, it is more a ‘soul thing’ than a ‘mind thing’ First and fore most you have to connect with your Moula. Only those who are capable to experiencing unselfish love, pure love, love that does not seek, but only gives - a soul in perpetual ‘shukr’ will find joy, peace and salvation in ‘ubudiy’at’ Those attached to the material world, will find it difficult to understand. Only when the material gross is removed, will the radiance of ubudiy’at, enrich their lives, and a true understanding will dawn. So first is the connection with Moula, and thereafter unbound love for him, are the first steps. Once that spiritual bond is established, things will become real easy, and ubudiy’at will radiate through and through in all actions. Even though ‘humami’ is not the seekers goal, may be himself, in his own life time, or his progeny will surely be rewarded. Our glorious Fatemi history is resplendent with this fact, and I hope to narrate, a few in this very post. The personality of Moula Ali (SA) inspires awe and reverence even in a small child, whose knowledge is limited. His bravery in Badr, Ohad, Khandaq, Khyber and all military expeditions, is well known. His knowledge of all that his contained in this World and Akherat are also ashkaar. I will just touching on the points, as every one is well aware of the riwaya’ts.

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He proclaimed : ‘haza Kitabullah il sa’mit, wa ana Kitabullah il – natiq’ Before I depart from this world, ask me of any thing that is contained in this World and Akherat. In both I’lm and A’mal he was a zenith, a lighthouse that showed the way and dispelled darkness. Now I will narrate just one incident from his glorious life, on the subject of ubudiy’at. Once when Muhammad (SA) accompanied by his ashaab were traveling, the sandals of Nabi (SA) broke and needed immediate mending. It was Moulana Ali (SA) who immediately sought raza to mend it. As Nabi (SA) sat down with his ashaab, Moulana Ali walked a little distance and sat down to mend the sandals. Nabi (SA) saw a fit opportunity to proclaim the exalted position of Moulana Ali (SA) and said : ‘tamara logo ma kitnak ehva che je ta’wil par jang karsejim mein tanzil par kidhi.’ Barely he finished uttering these profound words, that Haughty No 1 got up, and said - ‘a’na ya Rasulallah ?’ Aqa Moula ek bayan ma farmayu ke - ‘a’ne jhallo ghano !’ He went back to his place and Hughty No 2 got up, to ask the same question, to be given the same reply, and he was followed by Hughty No: 3 who was also, shown his place. Moulana Ali (SA) the veteran of many hard fought battles, the Kauser of I’lm e ladduni, was far removed, engrossed in mending the sandals of his Moula (here just juxtapose your individual achievements and your ubudiya’t with that of Moulana Ali (SA) and you will understand the real greatness of Moula ali (SA) and his ubudiyaat – to feel inadequate and so very small, like a sand speck is one of the first steps) Nabi (SA) proclaimed pointing in the direction of Moulana Ali (SA) – ‘ wala kinnahu khase-ul naal’ It he who is mending my sandals !!! I will now narrate just a few, there are innumerable in the glorious annals of our Fatemi History, but just a few, on how, the ubudiyaat exemplified in the life and actions of Moulana Ali (SA) was reflected in the lives of Doatul Mutlaqeen and Awaliya kiram sahebs. I will just be making references, as the point is to prove the paradoxes, under discussion, and the truth contained therein. Syedna Ali bin Mohammad bin Valid ( A.Q) He is the descendent of Walid bin Ukaba in the shade of the walls of whose orchard Muhammad (SA) had taken shelter from persecution at Taif. Walid sent his slave Ardas ( a Christian) with a loom of 18 grapes, which quenched the thirst of Nabi (SA) who felt refreshed and prayed for Walid. The descendents of Walid bin Ukaba served Fatemi Imams with diligence and 18 Doat Mutlaqeen are from his nasl and Syedna Ali is the first amongst them. The tawazo and ubudiya’t of Syedna Ali for his Moula Syedna Hatim Mohiyuddin (AQ) is a glowing example. Syedna Ali was entrusted with imparting sabaks to Syedna Ali bin Syedna Hatim Moula (AQ) and when he came to know that Syedna Hatim (AQ) had intentions to confer nas on him, he did arz to Syedna Hatim, saying ‘ Moula aapna farzand ilm ma ane tamam fazl ma tayyar thai chukka chhe, mara paas je hatu ye saglu aapi chuko chu, magar ek fazal ehma zyada ye chhe key eh aapna farzand chhe.’ On hearing this arz of ikhlas and ubudiy’at Moulana Hatim (AQ) said – “ Ali bin Mohammad malaaekat karta bhi wadhi gaya’. Such was the gulami, that resulted in ‘humami’ that not only Syedna Ali, but in his nasl another 17 Doat Mutlaqueen became the Spiritual Leaders, who guided the mumineens of many generations, on the path of salvation and emancipation. Another star that shines bright in the heavens of ubudiya’t is Moulaya Adam – Vali ul Hind. He exemplified by personal example that, the real status is achieved by submitting to the Will of his Moula. The directive issued by Syedna Idris (AQ) from Yemen to pray behind the sakka (water carrier) was carried to the letter, in true spirit and without hesitation or doubt. His progeny and the za’ereens who flock to his Roza mubarak seeking their wishes, and finding fulfillment of their desires, is his ‘humami’

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Syedi Najamkhan saheb son of Syedna Firkhan Shujauddin (AQ) is another glowing star adding radiance and showing direction to the seekers, in the path of spirituality. When Syedna Ismail Badruddin (mohta bawaji saheb) (AQ) took away the rutba of Izn (mazoon) his ubudiya’t glowed in all radiance. When mischief mongers, seeing an opportunity, approached him to sway him to their camp, he repulsed them saying ‘ Izn (mazoon) no rutbo mara Moula ye aapo hato yeh pacho lai lidho, to’ yeh mara Moula no haq cheh, magar mara Moula nu ehsan cheh ke mane mumin baki rakhane ! Agar aap farmavi de ke tame mumin nahin, to mein kahan ja’v ? The light radiating from this noble act has saved many from falling into the trap. During our life journey, living in a society, many difficult situations do arise, at times, but recounting and recollecting these noble acts, have saved many a souls from perdition. While gazing up at the heaven of ubudiy’at another star light shines bright and beautiful – that of Moulaya Khanji fir Saheb (Udaipur). His cleaning of the foul smelling rubbish, from the place near where Dai gave ‘sabaks’ – when asked by Moula, as to the cleaning - the barb by one who said ‘ aa Udaipur thi avela chokra yeh kachro sa’f kari didho cheh’ to which Moula replied – ‘ aa khanji fir ni shaan ghani baland tha naar cheh !!’. Friends, ubudiya’t really reflects in small acts. When others are thinking that it is not worth it, or it is below one’s status or dignity, you will surely come out a winner, if you think it right. You will only be able to do it, if you have unbound love for your Moula, this is for sure. Syedna Abdo ali Saifuddin saheb’s nashihat ‘kikabhai jaldi parho’ to his son Syedna Mohammad Badruddin saheb (AQ) is a glowing star in the heaven of ubudiya’t. ‘mara bawaji Zaki jai Ujjain zhuki lidhi shaan malaki’ ‘gagar ma sagar’ goes a saying in Gujrati, and how very true for the above simple yet profound words. The potentiality of becoming a ‘malak’ the ultimate goal of every mumin, is engrained in each individual, but by ubudiya’t, that potentiality can be transformed into actuality. This is the message conveyed beautifully in simple words. The heaven of ‘ubudiy’at is full of such glowing stars, but my gaze, my knowledge is limited, I fervently hope and pray that some more learned then me, will share his knowledge and insight on the subject, for the benefit of my young friends, in near future. However. who can ever miss the dazzle of the glowing galaxy of magnificent and resplendent stars – the Doat –us – satr, and the most resplendent, the most breath taking and brightest amongst them, – our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS). Doat us satr , during the long illustrious history of more than 900 years, have taken pride in calling themselves, as ‘ Mamluk – e – A’le Muhammad’ without exception, although we know that Imam uz Zaman (SA) have vested in them all the powers, given them the position of ‘karamat’ for which, we hold them in awe and reverence. This mamlukiyat itself, is a strong and compelling message to mumineen that haqiqatan fakhr is in the gualmi of Moula. As for the humami attained by this gulami – the illustrious life of our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) is an example, which none so ever can deny. I hope I have been able to prove the paradox.

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99th Milad Mubaraka

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Article-19

FULKUL HUSAIN e be' KARBALA (I am indebted to Bhai Murtaza Attari for helping me with the digital image of my concept of Fulkul Husain and Mulkul Husain) On the glorious 99th Milad Mubarak and at the onset of Ayya'mul Ta'budaat I share with you my thoughts on FULKUL HUSAIN NUH NABI'S fulk was so built by the Command of Allah to withstand the surging waters resulting from 40 days of incessant rain that engulfed our planet to be safely anchored at JUDI - thus humanity, animals and plant life were saved from extinction. IMAM HUSAIN'S fulk had a profound and greater divine purpose, which a layman like me fails to comprehend, a purpose which Aqa Moula (TUS) fully understands, his composing of the Marasiya ABKIKA MOLAYAL HUSAIN at the time of approaching his 99th year of age, is a living miracle, which we are blessed to witness. I had expressed my tassavurat on the 10th verse in the earlier post entitled 'OUR SULTAN AND HIS MESSAGE FROM MAROL' In all humility I share my thoughts on IMAM HUSAIN'S fulk. The purpose of fulkul Husain is Amr bil Maroof wa naha anil munkar till the day of Qiyamah, the purpose of fulkul Husain is the emancipation of humanity, the purpose of fulkul Husain is to turn the baser elements of humans into angelic traits, the purpose of fulkul Husain is to set free the Islamic values from the yoke of tyranny and oppression. The purpose of fulkul Husain is to continuously teach humanity, the lessons of striving for the hereafter, in the face of setbacks and loss in this material world. To remain steadfast and patient, to be submissive before the Divine Decree, placing absolute and unwavering trust in ALLAH above all else, to guard one's faith at all cost. to full fill one's word to the last, sacrificing one's all in the name of ALLAH, forgiving all in the view of His Compassion. The fluttering sails of this fulkul Husain, till the day of Qiyamah will proclaim to humanity at large for the continuation of jihad at the individual and social level. Aza e Husain is akin to the fast and rhythmic beat of the oars propelling the fulk, and for every tear shed, we mumineen pledge to resist the oppression of injustice, immorality, inequity and falsehood. Al-qoos (muqadama't-ul-safina)is to overpower the temptations that try to entrap, on the onward journey, the bow designed to reduce the resistance of the hull cutting through water. Al-hajiz - the bulkhead is so encompassing and at the same time like a fortress, that one feels safe and secure in their onward journey. Al-halq (safina-tul-mustahat) the keel together with al-dafat - rudder helps in navigating through the ups and downs of life, and keeps the course in torrid seas of entrapping materialism, so that finally one disembarks rejoicing with Hamd and Shukr for our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) 'kathe kudoos na pohchave - haq nu safina chhe ehma sava'r chhe hamein Moula na saath saath' Milad e Nabi (SA) Mubarak and mohanna to the readers of my posts. Looking forward to receive your comments and tassavura'ts, so that together we all stand to enrich our knowledge in this coming days of Ayyamul Ta'budaat. DOA NI ILTEMAS.

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Article-20

MULKUL HUSAIN e be' KARBALA THE MARTYRE DIES AND HIS RULE BEGINS THE TYRANT DIES AND HIS RULE ENDS - -Soren Kierkograd Mulkul Husain e 'be Karbala till the day of Qiyamah was firmly established on the Day of Ashura . The tragedy of Karbala represented around the world the eternal struggle of truth against falsehood, justice against injustice and tyranny, human dignity against dehumanization. The shahadat of Imam Husain (SA) on the banks of furat - Euphrates, the patch of land blessed from time immemorial by the kudoom mubarak of Ambiya kiram (SA) from Adam (SA) to our beloved RasulAllah (SA) and his vasi Moulana Ali (SA) the land known as Al- Ghadiriyah - Nainawa and as Syathi 'ul Furat evolved as the land of 'karb' and 'bala' and in no time, KARBALA became the nodal point, from which radiated the Universal love around the world. The triumph of TRUTH against falsehood ruled the minds of man and nations that came and those that will come, till the end of time. Muulkul Husain which germinated in the azeem sacrifice on the day of Ashoora on the burning sands of Karbala, with the passage of each century, managed to wipe off all political, cultural and social boundaries. The nida of YA HUSAIN is same around the world, the understanding and the lessons learnt from the azeem sacrifice is the same around the world, however, depending upon different cultural and social parameters , the expression of the grief is varied, but from Japan in the far East to America in the West - mulkul Husain holds sway over the minds of man. The sacrifice is a testament to the greatness of the human station that the angels were made to acknowledge by Allah at the time first creation. While doing taffakur on the subject I came across a very interesting article I had read in my college days, and had written it down in my diary. As I referred to it again, it helped me in understanding more fully the concept of mulkul Husain. I share with my young friends - the facts will amaze you and help in reinforcing your understanding that, how the Tragedy of Karbala has infused the entire world and by this shahadat, the mulkul Husain for ever will remain triumphant. What ALLAH wills no human mind can comprehend. Glory to HIM and HIS creation! In a very small area covered by the TRIANGLE as depicted in the herein below graphic, the entire climatic conditions of the world are found, is not that amazing. The Triangle has very deep cosmological meanings, but that is a totally different subject. On reading the article sited below you will be amazed and my purpose will be served, that how mulkul Husain has reached all corners of the world.

( Excerpts from : Introduction to Islam by Muhammad Hamidullah - Centre Cultural Islamique - Paris) ' A perusal of the map of major hemisphere shows the Arabian Peninsula lying at the confluence of the three great continents of Asia, Africa and Europe. (The continents had once formed a single land mass before breaking apart and drifting due to plate tectonics - a scientifically proven fact)

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In this limited area of Central Arabia, the existence of the triangle of Mecca - Ta'if- Medinah seemed something providential (like wise friends you can now understand that the land of - karb' and 'bala' was predestined for the mulk of Husain to flourish and Imam Husain (SA) gave promise to Nana Nabi (SA) at a very young age, that he will give the azeem sacrifice: ‘Nanaa ko diya thaa joh waa'da - Shabbir mibhanay aye hain’ Mecca's geographical and climatic features represented that of African - Sahara continent. Taif's geographical and climatic features represented that of Europe Continent. Medina's geographical and climatic features represented that of Asian Continent. This TRIANGE standing in the middle of the major hemisphere was, more than any other region of the earth, a miniature reproduction on the entire world. AMAZING FACTS! Likewise, from the parched desert land besides Furat, the azeem sacrifice of Imam Husain (SA) arose mulkul Husain. It continues to stir the consciousness of humanity. World leaders and icons of humanity have spread the message of Imam Husain (SA) to the far corners of the globe. The three sides of the TRIANGE of mulkul Husain are : Truth against falsehood Humanity against villainy Righteousness against evil "Imam Husayn uprooted despotism forever till the Day of Resurrection. He watered the dry garden of freedom with the surging wave of his blood, and indeed he awakened the sleeping Muslim nation. Husayn weltered in blood and dust for the sake of truth. Verily he, therefore, became the bed-rock (foundation) of the Muslim creed; la ilaha illa Allah (There is no god but Allah)." - Sir Muhammad Iqbal "I learned from Hussain how to be wronged and be a winner." - Mahatma Gandhi "The best lesson which we get from the tragedy of Karbala is that Hussain and his companions were the rigid believers of God. They illustrated that numerical superiority does not count when it comes to truth and falsehood. The victory of Hussain despite his minority marvels me!" - Thomas Carlyle "If Hussain fought to quench his worldly desires, then I do not understand why his sisters, wives and children accompanied him. It stands to reason therefore that he sacrificed purely for Islam." - Charles Dickens "In a distant age and climate, the tragic scene of the death of Husain will awaken the sympathy of the coldest reader." - Edward Gibbon Karbala stands for courage, self-sacrifice, integrity, honesty, vision, and bravery beyond words. It symbolizes all that is pure and true. Karbala teaches us that real battles are always fought in the minds and not on ground. Yazid was powerful and yet he lost the battle for truth. Also, being in the majority need not necessarily make you right. Battle For Truth The battle of Karbala finds great similarity with the one at Badr - Islam's first battle. It was the holy Prophet [PBUH] at Badr who fought with 313 die-hard supporters against a formidable army of some 1000 men. That day against all odds the small group won a decisive victory, and paved the way for a future Muslim empire. 56 years later it was his grandson with just 72 loyal men, who fought against an impossible opposition of several thousands to save Islam from the clutches of tyranny. Karbala was a battle of truth against falsehood, humanity against villainy, righteousness against evil, justice against corruption. The much loved grandson of the Prophet [PBUH] stood in the scorching heat of Karbala along with his companions, devoid of water but determined. His loved ones, including his six month old son, fell martyr one after the other. In spite of this he repeatedly invited the other party towards righteousness and forbade them from evil and

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immorality, but it all fell on deaf ears. When the time arrived for him to march ahead all alone, he did it in a fashion which was reminiscent of his illustrious father Ali. One of those who fought the battle of Karbala against him says, "I have never seen a person bereaved of his sons, men folk and his companions more Lion-hearted than him. The foot soldiers were scattering to his right and left like goats when a wolf come upon them." - Ibne Aseer, Tareekh Kamil The above are just a very minuscule representations of the emotions evoked around the world and helped in consolidating the Truth against Evil and Falsehood for ever till the day of Qiyamah By paraphrasing the saying of Sufi mystic ' (Karbala) - you are not just a drop in the ocean (land mass of Karbala compared to the land mass of the world) you (Karbala) are also the mighty ocean in the drop. Experiments at facilities like the Institute of Noetic Sciences in California and Princeton Engineering Anomalies Research Lab have proved that Mind rules over Matter - the spiritual belief in a 'cosmic consciousness' a vast coalescing of human intentions that was actually capable of interacting with physical matter. Inferring from this, it is no surprise than the land of 'karb' and 'bala' yjr mulkul Husain has for ever transformed the entire world. The Shariat of Nabi (SA) was firmly established. The true meaning of Jihad, which has been maligned by vested interests around the world, is in fact derived from the Arabic trilateral verb - ja - ha - da , which means to strive, struggle and work hard. Imam Husain (SA) strove and succeeded in establishing truth against falsehood for ever, he struggled to fortify humanity against villainy for ever, and by his azeem shahadat, he established righteousness against evil, till the day of Qiyamah. These eternal noble traits form an integral part of mulkul Husain. The roohani shakhsiyat of our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS), his hayat e pak, his for ever yearning - ' mein mara Moula Husain par fida fida thayee javu, mara mumineen ne mara sathe Maula Husain par fida fida kari davu 'is in truth mulk - fulk - nusk - misq of Imam Husain (SA)which we are blessed to witness and testify. har jagah, har mulk ma har sheher ma har gaon ma pohnchaa Moula jeh jagah awsaaaf na siqqa jamaa ja bajah Aqa dikhavey ek niraali shaan chhe Aqa Moula pe'r hamaara jan o dil qurban chhe I hope I have managed to shed some light, share my insights on mulkul Husain

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Design Concept : Yusuf Barwaniwala E-mail: [email protected]

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Article-21 # (FAJR SADIQ)

FAJR SADIQ ( the glorious, breath taking crimson state of the sky just before sunrise) when darkness has finally receded and the firmament is throbbing and pulsating to receive the sunrise. I have been fortunate to see the glorious breaking of the dawn, high up on the Himalayas from Tiger Hill point when the first rays of sunlight reflects in all hues on the snow capped peak of Kunchenganga. An out of this world experience, very hard to put in words, as I write this, the scene unfolds in mind's eyes. In the words of Mir Anis: ' amad vo aftab ki, voh subh ka sama tha jose jas ki vazd mein taoos asman' (The advent of the sun and the morning scene, the sky like a peacock in ecstasy...) But here I would like to refer to FAJRUZ ZUHUR to which our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) has been referring since past few years, and in several moving iltezaa to Imamuz - Zaman (S.A.) we mumineen have heard him say that - 'Moula Imam-uz - Zaman, Fajruz Zuhur to thai chuku Moula, ha ve SHAMS -US - ZUHUR Moula aap kivare tashreef lavso ....' (not the exact words- the full text of Noorani Kalemat are in the9/10th Iqtebasaat of Surat Ashara 1418H) and in similar vain Aqa Moula has been reffering to the state of the present Fatemi Dawat, which has by the Taeed of Imam-uz-Zaman and Ilm and untiring efforts and perseverance of Aqa Moula has reached such glorious height, pulsating, throbbing and radiating, awaiting in animated anticipation of receiving the glory of the majestic sunrise. Even to a layman like me with limited knowledge of Dawat history, this glorious epoch in the annals of Fatemi Dawat, which we are fortunate to witness is unparalleled, and in the words of a layman or an aa'rabi - villager (which the ashab-e- kiraams of Rasullalah (S.A.) loved to hear when they came in Nabi e Kareem (S.A.) hazrat and asked questions) I ask : 'can it get any better than this ? - surely this is it.' But let us travel back in time, and on turning the pages of history, we will find that the Fatemi Dawat has weathered many a storms. Except for the single minded efforts and zeal of Doat-e- kiraams, Awliyaas and Fozela kiraams, who have truly been the guiding stars in the dark firmament, who by their selfless sacrifices have guided and protected the community, enthused life giving force and nurtured it, and safeguarded the faith and the believes by facing the challenges and shouldering the burden. The greatest of Hind's martyrs - Syedna Qutbuddin Saheed (A.Q.) has been the foremost amongst the galaxy of stalwarts, who sacrificed their all, and it is their blood and toil, that has brightened up the dark sky. Syedi Musanji Taj Saheb was thrown in burning oil for protecting the hadi of Fatemi Dawat, Moulai Raj saheb donned the garb of fakiri to bring back the wayward back into the fold, Syedi Abdul Kader Hakimuddin Moula, Syedi Aminji-bin Jalal Saheb and a host of others burned the midnight oil to cast radiance and dispel darkness. Mumineens of Ahmedabad in huindreds being crushed to death in grinding mill, and hundreds have suffered inhuman torture and deprivations of imprisonment. The annals of Fatemi Dawat are full of such heart wrenching episodes. It is they who valiantly fought the forces of darkness, so that we may be able to see the light. What they suffered for and what ever they dreamt has been realized has frutified in our times. The advent of year 1915 (Hijri 1333) was a watershed in the annals of Fatemi Dawat. Syedna Taher Moula Saifuddin (A.Q.) at the young age of 28 years assumed the august office of Dai-ul- Mutlaq, and since that period Fatemi Dawat has been effused with vitality and radiance. However, at the onset, the young Dai had to face an uphill task, as the community was rife with pseudo intellectuals and moneybags with bloated egos, who straddled the community like pantheons. It was indeed a daunting and herculean task for the young Dai to rein them and their incessant scheming and plotting. Syedna Thaer Saifuddin Moula, slowly but surely overcame all the hurdles, with Taeed of Imam-uz-Zaman (S.A.), his profound Ilm and Statesmanship.

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He took the disgruntled elements head on and successfully fought 28 court cases, one being the longest of court cases, and at the same time, with youthful zeal and vigour, which did not forsake him even in advancing age, he wrote many Rasails, hundreds of Qasidas, in short his literary pursuits and works are stupendous, the marasiya Ya Sayyedas Shohadaee is apitome of his literary contribution. He fostered and nurtured the community like a benevolent parent; I can go on and on....... He derived his strength and energies from Taeed of Imam-uz-Zaman (S.A.) and he always addressed his longings and aspirations to Panjatan-e- Pak (S.A.) and Aimat-Tahereen, in whose madeh and eulogies he found spiritual strength and bliss. His often recited Qasida Mubaraka - ' Banul mustafal Mukhtaare Khayrul Khalaeqi ' written in 1374 H - Risalah Sharifah Ramadhaniyah Nahrun Noor-ish Sha'shani, gives us some idea of his complete reliance and surrender to the wishes of Ahle bait- e Nabi (S.A.) Each abayat in the Qasida Mubaraka is a gem, whose real value is known to those with knowledge and initiated in Fatemi uloom. I merely refer to a few abayats to give an insight into what I have reffered in the preceding paragraph. Syedna Taher Moula Saifuddin (A.Q.) addressing Imam-uz-Zaman (S.A.) pours out his innermost feelings in profound words. ana abdokum lajin ilaikum wa laezun bekum, mo'taffin minkum, bekum ayyo vaseqi I am your servant, who has come under your shelter and protection, seeking from you the boons, in you I repose full faith. In overcoming and facing the challenges of this world, he says La'in dhayyaqad dunya alayya fa in-nani be-taeedekum ya saadati ghairo dhaeqi If ever I face restrain in the affairs of this world , I never feel constrained because of your taeed O my leaders ! (28 court cases and a number of insinuations and false accusations, he stoutly overcame them all, and gave befitting replies, because of the taeed of Imam-uz -Zaman (S.A.) and who so ever can deny these words of a Dai whose entire life was devoted in the khidmat of Imam-uz- Zaman (S.A.) and who single handily nurtured his illustrious successor the 52nd Dai-ul- Mutlaq whose each passing moment is in the khidmat of Imam-uz-Zaman (S.A.) fadaytokomu binnafse wal vulde daeman wa ma leya laomul laemeena be Aa'eqi With my own self and that of my progeny, for ever I am sacrificing on you all (my illustrious leaders) the scorns of the taunters will not stop me All Hamd is for Allah, we mumineen, in this glorious Burhani era, are fortunate to witness FAJRUZ ZUHUR under the spiritual guidance of our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) In this modern age, for all us, faith is a matter of fundamental right, whereas, history bears out, that for merely upholding their faith, our peers and forefathers, suffered deprivations, torture and paid with their precious lives. Thus it becomes imperative on our part to always remember their sacrifices, their noble and inspiring efforts, and their dreams and in so doing to value and uphold our faith, be proud of our cultural heritage and upbringing, make concerted and conscientious effort to evolving ourselves into better mumin - one who is pleasing in the eyes of Allah, and His Vali - Imam-uz-Zaman (S.A.) and his Dai Syedna Mohammad Burhanuddin Moula (TUS). ALHAMDOLILLAH.

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Let us pray for our beloved Aqa Moula's long and healthy life.... ' wa tawwil elahi umr burhane di nekal

Article-22 # (THE TRAGEDY OF KARBALA IN THE CONTEXT OF MARASIYA YA SYEDASH SHODAEE)

The shadat of Imam Husain (s.a.) on the burning sands of Karbala is the essence of a mumin's life. A mumin is born in this world to perform matam and do aho-zari on the zulm and sitam that befell Imam-ul-Haq the beloved of Rasullalah (s.a.) Syedna Mohammad Burhanuddin Moula in his munajaat has beautifully articulated the sentiment of, forever remembering Husain (s.a.) in the following words: WA AZKURU MOULAYAL HUSAINA DAA LANA, BE SAJDATEHE INDASH SHAHADATAY SAEELA (I always remember Moula Husain (s.a.) who during his shahadat remembered us in his Doa) Let us travel down the centuries and arrive on the burning plains of Karbala, where the Furat guarded by the Yezidi forces longs to quench the thirst of masoom and mazloom Husain (s.a.) and his Ahle Bait and ashab who have been denied food and water for the past three days. Have you ever tried standing under the scorching sun on the desert plains, if you have ever done so, you will realize how it must be when Maula Husain (s.a.) was standing before the enemy flanks after having stoically overcome the grief of loosing his eighteen year old Ali Akbar, having buried his six month old Ali Asgar whose hulkum was pierced by enemy's arrow, and having witnessed the martyrdom of his valiant brother Abbas Alambardar, ahle bait and ashab kirams. We also do suffer hardships and deprivations at times, but inevitably on such occasions, our immediate concern is our own self or our own and dear ones. Is it not so, just try recollecting such incidents, and you will surely agree that yes - at such times, your concern was primarily your self and your immediate family. Here is Husain (s.a.) having lost everything, not in pursuit of worldly powers and glory, but to uphold the promise given to his Nana Rasullallah (s.a.) and to uphold the principles of Deen and establish the the Dawat of Amar Bil Maroof wa naha Anil Moonkir. On the burning sands of Karbala under the blunted khanzar of laeen Shimr, Imam Husain (s.a.) is not complaining or seeking retributions, but remembering and seeking forgiveness and aman for the mumineen who will come till kayamat. YA SYEDASH SHOHADAEE written by Syedna Taher Saifuddin Moula in 1348 H. at Karachi portrays grief and sorrow based on facts and although in Arabic its accent and lyric is that of Indo Pakistan peninsula. There is no precedent in the literary history of the Arabic language of such a long marsia, which is full of oratory and easily moves one to sorrow on reading or simply hearing, although one may not be knowing Arabic language. The marasia is well known around the world, millions of devoted followers of Imam Husain (s.a.) have memorized it. The presence of this marasia on the Zarih Mubarak of Imam Husain (s.a.) is a clear proof and evidence, that the khidmat of his Dai has been accepted by Imam Husain (s.a.). The fifty one stanzas allude to his position as the 51st Dai-ul- Mutlaq. Taher Saifuddin moula (R.A.) in a very few appropriately chosen words, conveys emphatically the position held by Imam Husain. He explains the divine status of Imam Husain (s.a.)

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YA HUJJATAR RAHMANE, YA SAFWATAL AZMANE, YA ALAMAL IMANE, YA MUTIYAN LILAMANE, YA AKRAMAL KURAMAE, WALAHFATA YA HUSAINA, YA SYEDASH SHOHADAEE. (O Allah's Hujjat! O essence of the periods! O sign of the Imam! O hope of the seekers of benedictions! O most generous amongst generous! O Husain our grief upon you, O leader of the martyrs.) Imam Husain (s.a.) on the fateful day of Aashura clearly defined his exalted position, not only to the Yezidi forces, but to the generations of satanic forces that will in vain try to challenge the Deen of Allah and His Hadi, but will never ever succeed AZHAL HUSAINU YUNADI, BAEENA JUMOIL AADI, INNIBNU TAHA WA SAADEE, MUNZO SALASEEN SADEE, ATLOOBU SHURBATA MAEE, WALAHFATA YA HUSAINA, YA SAYEDASH SHOHADEE. (On the day of Ashaura before Shahadat, Husain (s.a.) performed the duty of Hujjat with enemies and asked. Don't you know I am the son of that Nabi (s.a.) whom Quran has addressed as Tahaa and Suaad ? I am thirsty since last three days. I only ask of you just one sip of water. O Husain our grief upon you, O leader of the Shohada) You have deprived me of water, deprived me of my family, I the son of Saqi -e- Kauser has been denied a sip of water. Ah!! But this azeem sacrifice of Husain (s.a.) is not in vain, a clear line has been drawn between the forces of darkness, who have surely been deprived of Allah's Rehmat in this world and will burn in hell hereafter, and the true followers of Ahle Bait who will never ever face deprivation, in this world and will live in glory and peace in Akherat. LAM YASMAU MINHU QAWLA, WAIZ SHAQU MA SAQAWLA, BAL QATALU MINHU MAWLA, AAMAL BARAYA TAWLAN, ALA ASHADDE ZAMAEE, WALAHFATA YA HUSAINA, YA SYEDASH SHOHADAEE. (Enemies did not listen to his call, due to cruelty and enmity none of them gave water, but they killed him in the extreme of the thirst, one whose ahsaan covered the whole Universe. My unlimited sorrow and grief upon you, O leader of the Shohada.) ANAL BANIL WAHI DARAT, RAHIL BALAYA WAJARAT, AEDIZ ZAMANE FAGHARAT, NUJUMUHUM WATATWARAT, FI YAUMAY ASHOORAEE, WALAHFATA YA HUSAINA, YA SYEDASH SHOHADAEE. (Husain (s.a.) whom Rasulullah (s.a.) loved as his own son, was entitled to be addressed as the son of wahi. He suffered bala and countless afaat which gathered around the Imam. He and his Ahul Bait faced such trials and tribulations, which none can imagine. All the stars of the galaxy of Nubuwat set in the maghrib of Karbala, on the day of Aashura. My unlimited sorrow and grief upon you O Husain! O leader of the Shohada!) All the stars of the galaxy of Nubuwat set in the maghrib of Karbala on the day of Aashura, but not in vain, for surely they will come forth in all their resplendent glory as the Shams of Nubuwat on the day of Kayamat and seek justice and retribution of Shaitan and his legions for their dastardly deeds perpetuated on the day of Aashura and for generations on the believers. Thus it becomes obligatory for mumineen to remember their Moula, and to this effect Taher Saifuddin Moula (a.q.) poignantly alludes in the words... HAL MOMINUN YATASALLA, AHAL KAHAZI JULLA, RAAS UL HUSAINE MOALLA, ALAS SINANE TAJALLA, LALHO KAZUKAEE, WALAHFATA YA HUSAINA, YA SYEDASH SHOHADAEE. (Can a momin afford to take rest? Is there any bigger tragedy then this musibat? Enemies raised the head of Imam Husain (s.a.) on the top of the lance. It was that head which shined like sun, and the sun also shined with its Noor. O Husain! Our unlimited grief upon you, O leader of the Shohada.)

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Thus pathos flows like torrent in each verse, washing away the sins of one who is moved to tears, this marsia for ever moves the heart of the followers of Ahlul Bait, it will continue to refresh the tragedy of Karbala for eons, and generations of mumeneen will be indebted to Syedna Taher Saifuddin Moula (A.Q.) for this azeem ahsanaat. (Ack: Article 'Syedna Tahir Saifuddin's Tribute to Imam Husain' by Qazi Abbas Borhany. Courtesy: Bohranet)

Article-23 # (BATTLE OF BADR)

BATTLE OF BADR-2 A.H. SHABAN SHORT BACKGROUND: The Jewish tribes settled in an around Medinah betrayed the terms of the Charter. No kindness or generosity, however, on the part of the Prophet would satisfy the Jews. Enraged that they could not use him as their instrument for the conversion of Arabia to Judaism, the tribes of BANI-UN-NAZIR, BANI KHURAIZHA, BANI KAINUKA soon broke off and ranged themselves with the enemies of the new faith. They deliberately mispronounced the Koranic words rendering them meaningless and absurd. There were many Jewish poets and poetesses, who made fun of the faithful, particularly Muslim women. They secretly associated with the Koreish idolaters and Abdullah bin Ubay the leader of Munafikins, who saw his dreams of becoming king of Medinah gathering dust. And now came the moment of severest trial to Islam. Barely had the prophet time to put the city in a state of defence, before the blow descended upon him. Such were the uncertain conditions when in the month of Shaban, a large trade caravan loaded with expensive goods passed through an area accessible to the muslims. Escorted by only forty armed guards, the caravan felt itself highly vulnerable to an ambush. Abu Sufyan the leader of the caravan, dispatched a rider to Makkah to ask for help. On reaching Makkah, he narrated the situation is such a way as if the caravan has been ambushed. The merchandise belonged to a large number of people and very soon the whole city was thrown into a spasm. Chieftains of different tribes, armed from head to foot, started pouring into the streets of Makkah and in a short while an army of one thousand was charging towards Medinah. The sole mission was to destroy the muslims once and for all. Here in Medinah, the Muslims were surrounded by hostile Jewish tribes and the Trojan horse presence of hypocrites in the heart of the city. The people who could fight hardly numbered 313. Only three of them had horses and there were not more than seventy camels. The fighting hardware was grossly inadequate; only six had armour on their bodies. They were pitted against a foe of a thousand, well equipped men under the command of Utabah bin Rabiyah. Their supply route was excellent The meagre means notwithstanding, the Prophet, banking on divine help AT TAUBAH ayat 14 - (fight against them so that Allah will punish them by your hands and disgrace them and give you victory over them and heal the breasts of believing people). eft Medinah, heading south west, and on sixteenth of Ramadan reached a village by the name of BADR about eighty miles away from Medinah. The Quraish army was on the other fringe of the valley. By now the Quraish had learned about the safety of their trade caravan, and since the cause of war had ceased to exist, bloodshed should have been avoided. But Abu Jahl (the father of ignorance) the bitterest enemy of Islam show a rare opportunity of crushing the Islamic movement once and for all.

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THE BATTELFIELD The Quraish were strategically well poised. The ground under their feet was hard. But the Muslims were on softer terrain. It was sandy and their feet sank into it. The night before the decisive morning, the mujahedeen slept but the Prophet was in continual prayers. Fasting had become obligatory in the same year, and the muslims were being tested in the first month of Ramadan. They were put to fight an enemy three times their size. Two things happened that night which manifested Allah's Words. First, they slept well and woke up fresh in the morning. Second, it rained, which imparted strength to the sandy terrain on which they had camped. But the same rain had adverse effect on the enemy side. The ground turned muddy, and they found their feet sinking into it. BEGINNING OF THE BATTLE Strange was the scene, when the two armies faced each other. 313 Muslims, barely armed and up against all authority but that of ALLAH, were poised against more than one thousand infidels, armed to teeth with singular passion burning in their bosom to fight and destroy them. When Mohammad (S.A.) saw the infidel army arrogantly advancing, he raised his hands in supplication to Allah and with tears dripping on his beard, he implored : O Allah! These Quraish banking upon their number and their arms have come to prove your Apostle a liar. O Allah send now your help that You promised me. O Allah! if today this small party is vanquished, there will be none to offer you pure worship. Three Quraish advanced into the open space, and according to Arab custom, challenged three champions from the Muslim ranks for single combat. Hamza (S.A.) Ali (S.A.) and Obaidah accepted the challenge and came out victorious. The general engagement commenced. It was a stormy winter day. A piercing blast swept across the valley. True to the Koranic word the angels were fighting the idolaters. The blast of wind and sand appeared as veritable succour sent from heaven. The angels riding of the wings of wind drove the faithless idolaters and oppressors into Confusion. The Meccans were driven back with great loss. Abu Jahl fell victim to his own pride. About 70 people from the Quraish side were killed and an equal number captured. The muslim toll was six emigres and eight ansars. Amongst the prisoners tow were executed. One was Nazr son of Harith who has been referred in Koran Sura Anfal verse 32. 'And (remember) when they said O Allah! If this Koran is indeed the truth from You, then rain down stones on us from the sky or bring on us a painful torment.' They mocked Allah and met with terrible faith in the world, and forever will burn in Hell fire. The rest of the prisoners, contrary to all Arab practises and tradition were treated with greatest humanity. The humanity shown made one prisoner say this " Blessings be on the men of Medinah! They made us ride, while they themselves walked, they gave us wheaten bread to eat when there was little of it, contending themselves with dates". The prisoners who could afford it were released by making payment in compensation for the war waged against the Muslim. Those who were poor but literate were released on the condition that each would teach reading and writing skills to a batch of ten children. This goes to show the priority given to education by the Prophet. THE EFFECTS OF BADR The remarkable circumstances which led to the victory of Badr and the results which followed from it, made a deep impression on the minds of the muslims. They firmly believed that the angels of heaven had battled on their side against the idolaters. This was the first major blow that came from Allah as part of His promised punishment for the non-believers for their refusal to accept Islam.

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Article-24 # (THE BATTLE OF OHOD)

11th Shawwal 3rd H / 26th Jan: 625 A.D. Saturday. For the Muslims the victory of Badr was indeed most auspicious, they saw the hand of Providence in their success over idolaters. The idolaters were burning for revenge and in this third year of Hijra, they made formidable preparation for another war. They sent out emissaries to different tribes, and soon a formidable force amounting to 3000 well equipped soldiers, of whom 700 were fully equipped warriors assembled, their sole motive, that of revenge and complete annihilation of the Muslims. Marching under the command of the relentless Abu Sufiyan, and meeting with no opposition from any side, they took up a well chosen position to the north east of Medinah, where only the hill of OHOD and a valley separated them from the devoted city. From this safe vantage point they ravaged the fields and fruit groves of the Medinites. Mohammad (S.A.) marched out with a thousand men. The Jews saw an opportunity and the leader of munafikin Abdullah Ibn Ubayy deserted the Muslims with 300 of his followers, thus the Muslim force was reduced to 700 who only possessed 2 horses amongst them, but nonetheless marched ahead on to challenge the idolaters. Advancing quietly through groves of fruit trees, they soon gained the hill of Ohad. Mohammad (S.A.) took up his position under the hill, posting a few archers on a height behind the troops, giving them strict injunctions not to abandon their place whatever happened, their job was to harass the cavalry of the enemy and protect the flanks of the Muslims. The idolaters, confident in their numbers, marched down into the plain with their idols in the centre of their army, and the wives of the chiefs chanting their war songs and beating their timbrels. The first violent onslaught of the Koreish was bravely repulsed by the Muslims, led by Moulana Hamza (S.A.) who taking advantage of the confusion of the enemy, dashed into their midst dealing havoc on all sides. Victory for the Muslim was clearly at sight, when the archers posted on the hillock, forgetting the injunction of the Prophet, and seeing the enemy in flight, left their position in search of plunder. Khalid bin Walid one of the Koreish chief, at once perceived their error, and rallying his horse, fell on the rear of the Muslims. The infantry of the Koreish also turned, and the Muslim troops taken by surprise from both front and rear, had to renew the battle at fearful odds. Hamza (S.A.) and several others became martyrs. The efforts of the idolaters were, however, directed towards Mohammad (S.A.) who, surrounded by a few disciples and separated from the main body of his warriors, became the chief object of their assaults. He was wounded and blood oozed from his forehead. But rescue was near at hand. Moulana Ali (S.A.) who had been fighting in the centre retreated to the hill and shielded the Prophet by driving away the enemy, who was then taken to the safety of the height of Mount Ohod. Ali (S.A.) fetched water in his shield from the hollow of a rock. With this he dressed the wounds of the Prophet, who with his companions then offered noon prayers. The Koreish were too exhausted to follow up their advantage, either by attacking Medinah or driving the Muslims from the height of Ohod. They retreated from the Medinite territory after barbarously mutilating the slain Muslims.

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The wife of Abu Sufiyan - Hind, the daughter of Otba, with other Koreishite women, showed greatest ferocity in the inhuman and savage work of vengeance, tearing out the liver of Hamza (S.A.) and trying to chew it. She finally vomited the entire thing. The barbarism practised by the Koreish on the slain, created a feeling of exasperation. On his return to Medinah the Prophet directed a small body of the disciples to pursue the retreating enemy, and to impress on them, that the Muslims, though worsted in battle, were yet unbroken in spirit, and too strong to be attacked again with impunity. As in the battle of Badr, so once again in Ohod notwithstanding the enemy's large number and the Muslims' marked weakness in manpower and resources, the latter displayed unprecedented heroism. But the Prophet of Allah made it very clear to the Muslims not to attribute the routing of the enemy to their bravery or some superb tactical manoeuvre. It was owing to Allah's blessings alone that they came out victorious. They real power lay in their faith and trust in Allah, and when forced to war they should look forward to His help rather than count upon their striking capability or material resources.

Article-25 # (DEATH IS BUT A DROPPING OF THE FLOWER)

I came across this wisdom in high school and since than, I have made use of it to console families in bereavement, and also when I was faced with personal tragedies of my own. Besides it having a very consoling effect it caries a very deep meaning. As I advanced in years and knowledge, attending sabaks I became more aware of the truth in contained. Death is a thing not be feared by a true mumin, it is merely a turning of the wheel, for a better life in hereafter. Aqa Moula (TUS) repeatedly assures his followers, not to worry in the least. He is there to take us across to the place of bliss and bounties. My writing this post is on the observation I have made on THE DROPPING OF THE FLOWER and by the time you finish reading the post, you will come to know, the purpose of my writing. THE DROPPING OF THE FLOWER - death in many instances is very sudden, we frequently hear 'nakh ma pan dard nohtu ' 'jara chest ma dard thayu, dikro doctor ne bolavo gayo etlama 100 varas tamam' etc: etc: You may also have come across many such sudden deaths, or death after short illness or hospitalization in your family or close circle. In this post I want to share with you the agonies and pain, the high financial expenses, particularly of those families who are not well off, who somehow manage to live a decent standard of life. Their world is shattered if a medical tragedy strikes and to make matters worse, THE FLOWER all withered and shrinking, with no hope of revival clings on and on, so much so that the branch (the family of the patient) becomes vulnerable and weak. I have witnessed the plight of many such families, the medical bills keep rising, and the outcome is obvious, the family knows and so does the patient and the doctor who is treating. If the doctor is an understanding and humanitarian, the medical bills can come down, but sadly it is not the case all the time. I have seen families of terminal cancer and kidney failure patients, those whose financial means are limited, in very dire straits. I have witnessed business collapsing, means of livelihood curtailed. A compounding problem. The answer lies in how best as a community we can help these families to overcome their predicament. Besides providing funds, there are many other factors that are very important, and I am sure there are people in our community, doctors, nutrient experts, specialists, who can come forward with their advice and expertise.

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When can one discontinue with aggressive medical treatment of terminal patients? Is it advisable for the patient to be kept on basic need based medical treatment? How best to safeguard the families of terminal ill patient here I am not talking about money only. How best to advice them on the course of action. Is there a possibility of setting up updated Nursing facilities with medical equipments like Oxygen / drips etc: 2 -3 rooms well furnished having homely environment, having best nursing facilities, attached to Masjid in urban cities, or Musafirkhanas Can a standard menu based on our community eating habits ( dal/chawal, moong pulao/sarki) having correct nutrient values be formulated by a few dedicated experts from our community, in this particular field. Why I write this is because while surfing on The Cancer Project (www.cancerproject.org) I came across a revelation that estimated percentage of Cancer due to diet is 35% to 60%, followed by Tobacco 30% , Air & Water Pollution 5% , Alcohol 3% Radiation 3% and Medication 2%. The site contains and exhaustive Menu, but as the food habits of our community is different, and as average families will not be able to afford it, it would be welcome if some dedicated group takes up this project. Hope this post of mine, galvanizes dedicated group members to come forward. There is nothing to rush, we have time on our hand. I am very confident that when we will be celebrating the 100th Milad Mubarak of Aqa Moula (TUS) we would have achieved much.

Article-26 # (CLONING IN MY BACKYARD - NOT A JOKE A REALITY)

The current rage which is dominating all forums of discussions around the world from Ethics to Ecology,'really cool yaaar' in the words of educated teenagers, is Somatic Cell Nuclear Transfer Technology popularly known as 'cloning'. Last Sunday an article on it naturally triggered my imagination, and in order to be abreast with the development in this field of science, took recourse of the World Wide Web. As minutes turned to hours I completely lost my self in the world of 'chimetic' mice, 'Zita' the super cow, stem cells, embryonic development, IVF process, DNA sequences, genetic disruption, therapeutic cloning etc. As I was thus engrossed and lost in the fascinating world, and was groping for answers to the man made riddle, the shrill voice of my wife, who was trying to cajole my son engrossed in his books to do some household work, jolted me out of my reverie. A pull at my shoulders and her words - "tamaro dikro tamara jevoj che" instantly made me see light in the dark tunnel. Hey Bingo! My son like unto me, cloning in my backyard, and I the artitech was totally unaware. The truth came not from the tombs of information tucked away on the web, but from my wife, who is blissfully ignorant of all the heat and dust that the subject of cloning has raised. If you go to see it, how very true it is, and from a mumin's perspective I am talking about 'ruhani cloning' and although this subject is too vast and esoteric and my knowledge very limited, the words of Syedna Taher Saifuddin Moula (R.A.) reffering to his illustrious son and heir to the Fatemi Dawat our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) - INNA HAZAL FATAH ANA VA INAHU.... does full justice to my point and reasoning. Every mumin parent spares no efforts to see that his children are like unto him, that they grow up to be pleasing in the eyes of our ruhani bawa shafique so much so that one day their beloved children unite with them in akherat.This was one of the

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irshaad munira of Aqa Moula (TUS) during the Zikra at Karachi in 1404 H where he said that parents who are trying to give higher education to their children, should always ask the question that 'will my child unite with me in akherat' I do not know if I have been able to convey the import of this question fully, but it surely is the benchmark, the goal of each and every parent, and it is also the duty of each and every mumin child to actively assist by good actions and deeds, and if the actions of both parents and child are complimentary, with the nazarate-raheema and Doa mubarak of Aqa Moula, surely we all will evolve one day into farishta, that is what I consider as 'ruhani cloning'. Let the materialistic world be after 'harvesting of embryonic stem cells'. Let us follow in the footsteps of our Moula and show the world that we mumineen are more concerned with the development of the other world (akherat) consciousness, which has been emphasized over and over again in the letter and spirit of the Quran, in the sayings of Nabi, Vasi, Imams and Doat Mutlaqeens and in our times by Aqa Moula (TUS) I hope the ever growing young talented web serfing community will try to look at things from our very own Fatemi uloom perspective, and safeguard themselves, for in truth, these are difficult times and it is a jungle out there on the World Wide Web.

Article-27 # (Genetic Thinking - Living each day to the fullest)

Dr. Kazuo Murakami is Professor Emeritus at Tsukuba University, one of Japan's leading universities. In 1983 he succeeded in decoding the human renin gene, a key factor in hypertension, for which he won international acclaim. For many years, genes have been thought of in fatalistic terms, as in "you can't do anything about it because it's in your genes." Recent studies on genetic engineering have uncovered the fact that the function of genes changes according to surrounding environments and stimulation, and dormant genes actually have the potential to wake up. Kazuo Murakami explains that the function of our genes is affected by our thoughts and emotions. He believes that humans have the capacity to bring forth their talents at any age, and if we observe nature from a positive perspective, our inherent abilities will come forth. How can we activate the good genes and switch off the bad genes? Only about 5-10 percent of our genes are working at one time, and Murakami believes that "genetic thinking," or living each day to the fullest with a positive outlook enables us to experience happiness, joy, inspiration, and thankfulness, all of which activate beneficial genes. In fact, Murakami's research showed that twenty-three valuable genes are activated by laughter alone. What we think affects how our genes work. For example, people who see themselves as failures often produce poor results. Negative factors such as anxiety, stress, sadness, fear, and pain will deactivate our valuable genes, while positive factors such as joy, excitement, belief, and prayer activate them. Dr. Murakami explains that in order to learn to activate our good genes we should : Expose ourselves to different environments. When we reach a dead end, we should be daring and change our surroundings which stimulates good genes and unlocks our potential. Practice positive thinking. This is a key factor in slowing our natural movement toward disorganization and decay. Good genes work hard to take this process of entropy and direct it toward order. Positive thinking also includes seeing the bigger picture and positively interpreting what happens to us in life. Be profoundly moved and deeply inspired on a regular basis. Pursuing activities and relationships that inspire sincere emotion from the depths of our heart. Expose ourselves to new information obtained directly through personal communication. Meet people for lunch, ask questions, network, and share stories. Talking to experts in our areas of interest is a great way to turn on good genes Practice "Give and Give." This is giving simply to give-not consciously

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expecting something in return, yet gaining happiness and contentment through ones actions. Those feelings activate our good genes. Intentionally put ourselves in a tight spot. Sometimes to tap our potential we must drive ourselves into a corner. This is introducing risk into ones life, a factor that compels us to strive even harder to reach our goals. Follow our intuition. This can lead to positive results, and good genes are activated in a crisis. Live up to our potential. Examine what conditions are preventing us from realizing greater potential, remove the obstacles, provide an appropriate environment, and the potential for development is limitless. Shift our way of thinking. Negative thinking violates the laws of nature. When our genes are in harmony with the laws of nature, they work to protect and nurture life and rejoice in it. Look more closely at nature and strive to live in harmony with its laws. Keep your intentions noble, live with an attitude of thankfulness, and think positively. Take bold steps. Recombining yourself in response to changes in the environment activates the good genes.

Article-28 # (This will refresh your mind and set your thinking)

BOOK :” The seven keys to color healing - Diagnosis and treatment using color.” By RONALD HUNT. COLOR IS A DIVINE FORCE - NOTHING LESS! To regard it, for one moment , as anything less would be like a woman who recalled only that electricity was something that heated her press iron. Whereas we know that it is a cosmic energy that man has learned to harness to give artificial light, heat and cold, and innumerable application is made to serve mankind. THE HUMAN BODY IS IN FACT: 1. PHYSICAL BODY : the etheric or sensual body. 2. ASTRAL BODY : made of finer etheric substances, emotional or desire body. 3. Interpenetrating this is the lower mental body or concrete mind. 4. Transcending this again is the Higher mental body. 5. Spiritual body. 6. Intuitional body 7. Causal body. 7 bodies within one body and the radiation from them all composing the AURA or magnetic atmosphere. Herein is depicted in waves of light and color, the physical, emotional, lower and higher mental and spiritual addendum of consciousness - the talents, the deficiencies, the vibrant health or the weakness of disease. A seer can make a diagnosis at a distance of many thousands of miles provided there is a vibration link with the individual. They can see the entire aura of soul’s consciousness. Seers of perfect selflessness and purity of motive, are privileged upon occasion to see the soul bared of the causal body. RED: great energizer. Red controls the Root Chakra or coccyges center, at the base of the spine, which governs the vitality of the physical body, particularly the creative and restorative process. ORANGE: relieves repression, freeing action upon bodily and mental function, it combines physical energy with mental wisdom - it is also termed as ‘wisdom ray’. Orange controls the second chakra or Splenic centre (Pancreas) assisting in the assimilative, distributive and circulatory process. YELLOW: The rays carry positive magnetic currents and are non-stringent having an alkalizing effect which strengthens nerves. Yellow rays are awakening, inspiring, and vitally stimulating to the higher mentality - the reasoning faculties. Yellow

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stimulated the third chakra or Solar Plexus - the great brain of the nervous system, controlling the digestive processes in the brain and stomach. GREEN : It is the color of nature, the color of balanced strength, the color of progress in mind and body. It stands for harmony. Green stimulates the cardiac chakra or the Heart Centre. BLUE : The blue ray is one of the greatest antiseptics in the world. Blue controls the Laryngeal Chakra or the throat center, often referred to as the power center - the greatest creative center in man’s body. INDIGO : This color is a great purifier of the physical bloodstream, and also a tremendous mental freeing and purifying agent, controlling the psychic currents of our finer bodies. Indigo combines the deep blue of devotion and clear logical thought, with faintest trait of the stabilizing red tone. Indigo is related to the frontal chakra behind the brow, anciently termed as the third eye, controlling the pineal gland. VIOLET : The violet rays possess the most intense electro chemical power. It is the ideal purifier, the purifier of ideals. Violet has a great inspirational effect. Violet provides nourishment for all those cells in our upper brain that expands the horizon of our Divine understanding. Leonardo da Vinci maintained that our power of meditation increases ten fold under the rays of violet light falling softly through stained glass windows. WHITE: The white ray is not a ray in the color sense. It is a symposium of all seven rays. White has the attribute of lifting and dynamizing any single ray color and of transmitting that ray to the peak of its characteristic potentialities. Thus white may be compared to electricity flowing into a colored bulk, which gains increasing dazzling luminosity as higher voltages are passed through it. Similarly the cosmic white light flowing into the bulb of consciousness, colored with our particular ray outlook, raises and expands our auric light, extending our power of perception of inner and cosmic realities. When at the zenith of Human consciousness, we perceive the reflection of the Divine cosmic Light, we experience the falling away of all that is dross, a transmutation of all our baser earthly elements of disease. The white light from the higher planes is duly Divine Manna capable of vitalizing every living thing. It may be used to charge water by an effort of will power. MY COMMENT: OUR IMANI SIYAAR IS ALL WHITE FOR NOTHING MUMINEEN. JUST REFLECT AND OFFER HAMD AND SHUKR - SYEDNA MOHAMMAD BURHANUDDIN ZINDABAD - FATEMI DAWAT ZINDABAD FEEL PROUD OF OUR CULTURE AND HERIAGE

Article-29 # (EDUCATIONAL GRANT/LONG TERM K.H. FOR HIGHER EDUCATION)

An idea has germinated slowly but surely and I am pleased to share with you all, some tangible development as a result of a dedicated group of philantreprenurs, (DGP) who have understood that the community should reach out to those deserving students, who have achieved grades, but on account of financial constraints, are unable to pursue higher studies, unless and until they fall back upon Banks, who are ready to finance their studies. A situation that the community abhors as it goes against the very tenets of our faith. I need not elaborate further on this, as this fact is widely understood by each and every one. Last year 3 students approached me, and on the basis of the go ahead received from DGP I gave them an assurance, that they can start preparing for the WBJEE. Two students financed their tutorials (Rs: 15,000/- per term) and one student, whose father is no more, and the mother somehow manages to run the house hold, was given financial help for the tutorials.

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Once assurance was given the 3 put their heart and soul to crack the WBJEE and all 3 got a ranking. The DGP came forward with financial assistance. Counseling was held in the first week of July '08., and two have got admission in the following Engineering Colleges. NARULA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY (AICTI) GURUNANAK INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY (AICTI) In both the above colleges the Management Quota rate of admission is around Rs: 6 lacs. So these two youngsters have managed to get admission on merit. The tuition fee for one semester if Rs: 30.750/- which has been advanced by the DGP and Insa Allah they will continue to pay the fees for one semester per year, for the second semester each year the Parents will manage. One student has opted out as he had got a lower rank, and has promised to study hard and get a better ranking next year, so that he can get admission in the better college and in the preferential stream, so that the study and job prospects turn out to better. The scenario if the DGP had not come forward. The 3 would have taken admission in all probability in a morning college doing the run of the mill B.Com course, joined a Call Center, for that extra income and pursued a life style not in sync with our Deen and culture, and a career, that has no future. Thus an opportunity to turn around in life, an opportunity to help their family, would have been lost. Now this 2 students have before them a bright future. A little understanding goes a long way. I am confident, that after graduating and getting a plum job in all likelihood, they will repay the amount, so that other deserving student will benefit. They have assured me, that in gratitude, they will, when the time comes, will render financial help, like the one they have received. I hope and pray that with this path breaking example, already put into practice, mumineen in other metro cities will come forward to assist youngsters in realizing their dream. The time is now, as students, once they will be assured that the finance will not be an obstacle, in the pursuit of higher studies, will prepare from now, taking up special coaching, so that in Joint Entrance Examinations, they will come up trumps. Hope next year if planning and preparation are made from now in different cities, if done at Jama't level, much better or by an individual or group we should at least have 100 youngsters, who have the talent and a dream, but lack finance, pursuing higher studies in different fields of education. I would be obliged if mumineen who make this resolve, write to me and keep me updated on my blog or by mail. I am also of a firm belief that those youngsters, whose parents have a flourishing business, should join in their family business, because they will be able to help their family become more prosperous. In the case of those, who have no family business to fall back on, to get a good job, and there after if an opportunity presents itself, to start their own business in the field of their expertise, spells good for the community.Hope this post will motivate others to reach out to those, who are in need of funds to pursue their education and dreams. EMPATHY is what is needed, and how to acquire this very noble trait? If we see in the aspiring youngster who approaches you for pursuing his studies, as your very own, as our beloved Aqa Moula's child, his ama'nat, EMPATHY will surge forth, a deep connection will be made, and spiritual bliss will radiate. At times, I have seen many who have been blessed with material abundance, lead a very empty life, behind the materialist veneer, is an emptiness. So if Allah has blessed you with abundance, these youngsters who need not merely your funds, but your encouragement, guidance and your empathy, will surely provide soul sustenance. It is a win win situation. Try it out and feel blessed and enriched.

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Please do share your experience if you have resolved to help a deserving and needy student. Try to have personal rapport,it will do you a world of good. I have experienced it, and I want you all to share the joy. I am indebted to DGP and hope in other metros more and more will join the bandwagon, and a greater number of students will have a dream future. Do post your comments and help in buidling a community opinion on the subject of providing long term K H or educational grant to deserving and needy students.

Article-30# (GET UNITED TO FIGHT THE MONSTER )

Fight against CANCER is proving to be loosing battle, full of pain and sufferings for the patients, and a great cause of worry, mental agony and draining of financial resources, for the haggard loved ones and hapless relatives. In this post I am only talking about our Community. Cancer related deaths are on the rise. In my city alone, within the past 2 – 3 months, 6 mumineen have died because of cancer related disease, ( information provided by Hizbe Husaini member) and a few are undergoing treatment. In other cities and towns also, if one cares to find out, many such instances, of death because of Cancer, may come to light. With no financial cover to fund exorbitant medical bills, because the tenets of our Deen, do not allow any form of Insurance Cover, the family are at their wits end. It is a very painful and pathetic scenario. The costs of the treatment are so high, that even arranging medical aid of say Rupees 1 lac, in a particular case, proves wholly inadequate.CANCER gets detected, the family is in a shock, their whole world turns upside down. The family, which barely manages to maintain a decent standard of living, braces up to face the future with fortitude, always hoping , that a miracle will happen. All the time, wishing away the dreaded monster. Three months ago, when initials treatment and chemo were being administered, I had talked with the person, and was amazed at his composure and fortitude, to face the monster, head on. Tears flowed when I was told- just keep praying, as they were willing to “bear their own cross’ and were confident , that they will overcome. I at that point of time, simply marveled at the courage, and the noble trait of ‘sabr’, which became evident. Funds for the treatment had been arranged from friends and family, in large part as KH to be repaid. But sadly CANCER is an unrelenting monster, it refuses to be cowed down, it strikes hard and fast, in many instances. The family is shattered, the close circle of friends and relatives, are all very helpless. With no back up support, the medical bills keep rising, one things leads to another in quick succession. It is like a vortex from, where there is no coming out, money borrowed goes down the drain, so to say. There is no complete cure in sight, after spending around 5-6 lacs and much more, in many known instances. As I write this post, the patient is still in the hospital in a very critical condition. HERE I AM NO SEEKING FUNDS I AM SEEKING ANSWERS AND SOLUTIONS. EVEN BEING A LAYMAN, I KNOW THERE ARE ANSWERS AND SOLUTIONS OUT THERE, WATING TO BE CHANNELIZED FOR THE COMMUNITY GOOD. HERE I AM APPEALING TO THE MEDICAL FRATERNITY OF OUR COMMUNITY TO TAKE OUT SOME TIME FROM THEIR VERY BUSY SCHEDULE AND HELP WITH YOUR GUIDANCE AND ADVICE. What is needed is expert advice and guidance, to be put on public domain (eg: DB Net – Malumaat etc : ) so that at least, if need arises, mumineen can log in and seek information and guidance, which can be passed on to the patient and the relatives, so that a correct perspective can be formed by them. Asgar says will not count, however, sound and rational it may seem. Dr. Asgar says and it will surely be taken into consideration. This is reality. I know it is not a big deal. There is a lot of information on the Net, but it is for the experts in the field of medicine, to retrieve information and guidance, that can be understood by laymen like me. I have managed to assimilate some information on the subject of Pain and palliative care of terminally ill cancer patients from the Net.

http://mindmints.blogspot.com/2008/08/get-united-to-fight-monster.html

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‘The goal of palliative care are to control symptoms in patients with advanced disease and enhance their quality of life. Hospice, which involves providing care for terminally ill patients, is a step in the right direction. (Is it possible for our community to have a few of these specialty treatment centers – I had made a reference to this in my earlier post – ‘Death is but a dropping of the flower, so that the fruit may swell. Pain affects more than 70% of the cancer patients, but is often under treated. The world Health Organization’s step wise guide to pain control serves as an excellent basis for management. Around the clock dosing using adjuvant treatments and using non invasive routes of administration provide good pain control for 80 % patients. Ack: Article: Assessment and management of Pain in Palliative care Patients. Source: Cancer control Journal of the Moffitt Cancer Centre. Is it possible that the medical fraternity and mumineen who are pursuing medical studies, can work on the above subject, and put on public domain some resources along with their expert advice, so that patients and relatives can at least get an opportunity to get second opinion, and can discuss with their Oncologist and doctor. In the earlier part of this very post, I had made a reference to a patient family, who had shown exemplary courage and fortitude to fight the monster head on. The patient was in a critical state, when I began writing this post, and now, when I am about to post it, I have just been informed that the patient, has lost the battle, leaving behind a shattered family and a lot of financial burden to be shouldered. Such is the enormity and seriousness of the situation. As such, thru this post I appeal, that some positive thinking and work should be done in this respect, and what better time, than Sherullah, which is mukbil (nearing) in a few days. During this month we will be meeting each other on daily basis. So my request is to be focused on the subject, try to carry on the dialogue and I am confident, that good will surely emerges out of it. I am not claiming that if you mail this post to 10 - 20 or 100 persons, you will be blessed with a rich fortune, and if you do not e mail it, some harm will befall you. Nothing of that sort will happen, but yes, if you e mail it to those, whom you feel, can offer some solutions and answers to check this monster, you will be doing an A’maal ul bir ( good deed) which is incumbent on every mumineen during the month of Sherullah.

Article-31 # (HAJ - A spiritual Journey)

Come Zil Qadah and hujjaj all around the world start to converge on theblessed valley of Bakkah, which contains the holiest of holy House of Allah - the sanctified and glorified Kabah. Each and every muslim dreams of making this journey atleast once in his lifetime, and those who have been blessed have their memories etched for a lifetime, of the sheer magnitude of the event, whose final culmination on the return to Kabah from Arafa brings spiritual joy and reward. With the Doa and raza mubarak of our beloved Aqa Moula(TUS) mumineen in larger numbers journey towards the sanctified House and to guide them and to oversee their welfare, both deeni and dunyavi, he sends one from his own household as Ameerul Haj who rightfully guides the adherents to perform the arakeen of Haj as stipulated in our deen and also to look after their day to day needs. This year the revered and learned Shazada Qasimbhai Saheb Hakimuddin (DM) will be the guiding light of the mumineen hujjaj. Prior to proceeding for hajj hectic preparations are undertaken, and as the days for departure nears, the hujjaj besides having to fulfil all the formalities, has to meet and interact with all the relatives and well wishes who drop in for iltemas -ul -doa and to wish them safe journey and return.

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When both body and mind is so engrossed and absorbed, a silent co-traveller, one of our very own, the essence of our very being is also silently but surely making the preparation. In factit is his journey, the mind and body are mere tools that help the nafs (soul) to achieve the spiritual ecstasy and joy, the Hajj in its true pristine meaning. Circumventing Kaba, running or walking briskly between Safa and Marvah, the Qiyam at Mina, the ascending of Arafah merely with body but without soul is meaningless. It is an ehsaan of our Moula that we mumineen perform the arkaans of Hajj with true marefat. At each and every stage of Hajj one should feel the presence of his nafs (soul) which is also in journey, in fact it is his journey. As one prepares his body and mind, he has to prepare his nafs (soul) for the journey as well. This month of Zil Qadah is blessed with the Milad of Syedna Taher Saifuddin Moula (A.Q.) and deriving inspiration from his Qasida Mubaraka - Banul Mustafal Mukhtaare Khayrul Khalaeqi (1374H) I make a humble attempt to create the journey of nafs (soul) as it journeys towards the sanctified and glorified House of Allah. The unbound love of Aimaat Tahereen, Doat-ul-Mutlaqeen and Aqa Moula (TUS) and his madhe-sana becomes the Guide, who leads and directs the caravan of nufus towards Baitullah al Haram. The souls of mumineen are feeling refreshed and invigorated by the cooling breeze of affection and boon and they look forward and eagerly await to reach the House of Allah. Once they arrive at the holy precincts of Kabah, the souls in unison cry

Article-32 # (Tilawat of Munaja't in Sherullah)

As the month of Moharram is characterized with buka and matam of Imam Husain (S.A.) the month of Shehre Ramazan is glorified with salat, saum,vazebaat and all forms of aamal maroof (good deeds) that are pleasing to the eyes of Allah, His Vali Imam-uz-zaman (S.A.) and his illustrious Dai Syedna Mohammad Burhanuddin Saheb (TUS). One of the most endearing form of worship in this month is Munajaat – a one to ONE commune with Allah The Glorified, wherein the ibad expresses his innermost feelings, his aspirations, his cherished goals in verse form, preferably in seclusion, when the world is asleep, seeking guidance, succour and strength from Allah. The general body of mumineen with their very restricted and superficial knowledge of deeni uloom are naturally not capable of such a commune with the Almighty, the Ever Living, the One who sustains and protects all that exists. It is a most significant and singular ehsanaat of Awliya Kiram (S.A.) that with their deep intuitive knowledge and in order to shower barakats on generations of mumineen, a glorious Fatemi tradition of preserving the munajaats of Awliya Kirams, the tilawat of which in the month of Sehere Ramazan, particularly during the Tahajjud namaz, elevates the soul, and one however, lowly his status in both deen and duniya be, for a moment feels in commune with Allah. Each year we are blessed with the tilawat of Munjaat written during Shehre Ramazan by our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) and along with it is distributed, one of the Munjaat of Muqadas Moula Syedna Taher Saifuddin Saheb (A.Q.)In the preceding year's Munajaat - ' Ya Rabbe Je'toka Nademan mustagferan' Aqa Moula (TUS) remembers his mumineen, his pyara farzando and entreats Allah in one abyaat - 'va kehim masaeba... to save them, to protect them from the torments of back biting.... ' ane yeh sagla ne tu geebat ane chugli ni musibato si bacahvje ane hasad ane takabboor ni nichai si yeh sagla ne duur rakhje As we have come around one full year, another Shehre Ramazan is in our midst, it is time to look inward and evaluate that has the enteritis and prayers of our Aqa Moula (TUS) made a year ago, have been answered in ourselves, have we freed ourselves from those evils, have we made a contentious effort to refine our character, become better and more fulfilled human being. It is surely a time of introspection mumineen!! Shehre Ramazan is the best stock taking time of our moral actions. It is you and Allah and no one in between. Pour out your heart to Him, cry out aloud to Him, own up your shortcomings, nothing is there to hide from Him for He is All Knowing, All Seeing , All Hearing, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.

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Talking of myself having very limited deeni knowledge, I for one eagerly look forward to Shehre Ramazan, so that I may be able to reap spiritual sustenance and peace of mind by tilawat of munajaats in the still dark nights. I am unable to put into words the sheer joy and peace that I experience by mere recitation, although not knowing the meaning. The purpose of my writing this 'write up' is to create an awareness of the sheer beauty and barakats emanating from the tilawat of Munjaat – a glorious Fatemi tradition. The inspiration was derived the other night, when I was doing tilawat of a Munajaat of Muqaddas Moula Taher Saifuddin (A.Q.) - 'Ilahi Ilahi aleika atubu ... (1348 H) Page 97 -second part of bihori kitab. The following lines, more for its alliteration quality, as I have already informed that I am ignorant of the meaning, the repeated recitation of which, gave me sheer joy and spiritual bliss, that I will not be able to describe. The lines are: 'va tazrefo aiyni va tar'asho rijli le khashyate Rabbi va kalbi yajubo' Subsequently I came to know the literal meaning, but I refrain from translating, because I will not be able to do justice, as in so doing, the beauty and spirituality will be lost. However taking vasila of Muqaddas Moula (A.Q.) and Aqa Moula (TUS) in all humility I offer Hamd and pray to Allah the One whom neither slumber or sleeps overtakes, to grant luminescence to my eyes, and that I may walk steadfast on sirat-e - mustakeem, keeping my soul and my being in perpetual awe of Rab-bul Alameen, so that my heart melts in humility. Ameen. As I eagerly await the coming of Laiylatul Qadr in all its glory and the tilawat of this month's Munajaat, offering Hamd to Allah I fervently pray that may Allah grant my Moula sehato -afiyaat - ta - kiyamat. Ameen.

Article-33 # (Munaja't Sahrifa - Sehrullah 1422 H)

As a sequel to my earlier write up in Shehre Ramazan - 'Tilawat of Munajaat in Shehre Ramazan,' as I was doing tilawat of this Year’s Munajaat Sharifa - ' Rab'bana Rab'bana ' I started to reflect on the abayaat sharifa : Va ma'adh Dheeke fi Umurin yara Ne' mata Rabbin alaihe bis'tifai (Inspite of constrains in life one sees the fullness of Allah's blessings upon him. Sprituality (ruhaniyat) is expansive - inspite of limitations of means, if one has a thankful heart, he will surely find ease and comfort) I do not comprehend, but some inner urge made me repeat the abyaat again and again, and as I did so, I tried to reflect, and I would like to share my reflections, with all of you in all humility. Our beloved Dai see what we comprehend not. His vision is vast and expansive and encompasses future. Because of our limitations in both knowledge and vision, we can only comprehend the present, and this much we know for sure that these are bad and difficult times indeed. The economy world wide is in the thorough of recession, job cuts are the order of the day, every company big or small is fighting for survival in the ever increasing competitive market. The 'blue chips' of yesterday are going 'in the red' dashing the hopes and aspirations of the investors. The Government concerns and big corporations are trying to whittle down the extra flab - down size, is the management mantra, and this is effecting all layers of society, down to the individual family man, who is at his wits end to manage his finances, but a mumin is not, because his Moula has taught him the art of living. Yellow slips, an aggressive competitor turning up each new day, closure and wind ups, have become a harsh reality. These are no times for levity, luxury and lassitude. Our Moula knows what is in store for sure, and he is bracing us up to overcome the harsh realities of life. In such times to maintain the mental equilibrium and not to fall deep down in the depression ditch, as so many others are doing, our Moula says that we should have a thankful heart, to live in constant integrated awareness of the small mercies. In the coming times, this will be the magic wand that will transform one into a happy, fulfilled, mature person.

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I repeat a thankful heart in constant awareness of small mercies. A mumin who adheres to the guidance of his Moula, inculcates Hamd and Shukr in his daily life inspite of constrains, does not fall into the interest and debt traps, and on the other hand, those who are blessed with plenty by Allah, as a means of Hamd and Shukr give Qarzan Hasana, look after the welfare and well being of their fellow mumineen and undertake all noble acts in Shukr for being blessed, will surely live their lives in peace and comfort. Easy said than done. It is very difficult and we have to learn the art. When the goings are good, it is very easy to smile our way to the top and to repeat full throated "Alhamd-o- lillah' but to attend your office for full four to five days, and not to receive a single phone call or customer, but still with full conviction and true ikhlas and with a thankful heart count the many blessing of Allah needs some soul searching and inner strength. In such difficult times, the above abayaats of Aqa Moula (TUS) provides correct guidance and nourishes the soul and mind. I hope the readers will agree and try to inculcate the noble and pious acts of hamd and shukr under all circumstances. if we do succeed, as our Moula has said, we will surely see and feel the 'vusaat' – The vastness of Allah's neamats (blessings). ALHAMDOLILAH! May Allah grant my beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) sehato -afiyaat - ta-kiyamat? Ameen.

Article-34 # (Ilmi barakaat in Sehruallh)

It is azeem karam and ehsanaats of Aqa Moula (TUS) in practically all the bilade imaniya throughout the world, mumineen are blessed with the barakat of Fatemi uloom, with the Raza Mubarak by khidmatguzars.However, there are many who for whatsoever reason, much though they would like to, are not able to attend regularly Shehre Ramazan namaz and dissemination of illuminative Ale Mohammad Ilm in Masjid and markaz. A case in point is the response that I received from Bhai Aliasgar to my earlier 'write up' on the Tilawaat of Munajaat in Shehre Ramazan. I reproduce below the exact message that moved me to tears, and has inspired me to write this one. ' it was really nice reading your 'write up' i think you not only wrote about the barakaats of munajaat on your behalf but on behalf of all the mumineen!. Currently studying in california, but i am from dar es salaam , it was to my habit to go for bihori every night when back home, i now realize after reading about your essay what's missing this ramadhan. your writing inspires me to wake up even more early before sihori just for more tilawaat-e-munajaat. Thank you!.dua ma yaad!.lastly the dua which is in every mumeen's mind: e-parwar digar tu hamara moula bawa shafiq ni umar shariff ne taa roze qayamat sehat ane afiyat ma daraaz karje Ameen! Aliasgar Shk Zoeb Sarkar. I do not have the Raza, nor the expertise and knowledge to transmit the knowledge gained by hearing and imbibing the daily bayans by the erudite Asateja-tul-Jamia. At the same time I have a deep feeling for my mumineen brethren, particularly those who may be living in college campuses or out on work far far away from masjid and markaz during this month, and this feeling that they are missing, mind uplifting, character building and aamal inspiring aspect of Shehre Ramazan- the Ilmi bayans. Taking inspiration from the saying of Moulana Ali (S.A.) that Hikmaah (eternal truth) is a lost property of mumin, gather it from wherever it is found, and with the khalis niyaat that my efforts may inspire those, with zeal and vigour to perform saum and salat and aamal maroof. Herein below are some inspirational thoughts. 1. The aim of prayer is to generate within the subliminal self of man such spiritual power, light of faith and awareness of God as can enable him to strive successfully against all kinds of evils and temptations and remain steadfast at times of trial and adversity and protect himself against the weakness of the flesh and the mischief of immoderate appetites. ( Nadwi P.24) 2. Why cling to life so desperately? Why want and want and want – and more and more of everything - for what? Where is one going and why? (Author unknown)

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3. As for knowledge, the emphasis, once again, is on patient discrimination and steady preparation. The object of knowledge must possess the highest worth. A fly may sit on all kinds of things, but a bee alights only on a flower. A crow drinks water where ever he finds it, but a chataka waits patiently for the first drops of rain. (Sayings of Sage Paramhansa) I hope the above thoughts will give you an opportunity to reflect and give impetus to your thirst for more knowledge and insight in this holy and blessed month. Taffakur is also a form of ibadat pleasing to Allah, the Glorified. In my humble opinion if the dawoodi bohra portals after obtaining Raza Mubarak of Aqa Moula (TUS) start a service of disseminate Ilmi bayans each day based on the Zikra vaaz to selected group, who because of constraints are not able to attend masjid and markaz gathering in Shehrullah, but at the same time our eager to derive barakat. It may not be possible this Shehrullah, but come another Shehre Ramazan, and each and everyone may receive the barakat of glorious Fatemi uloom. InsaAllah. It is an irony that there may be many who may be deeply missing the bayans, and yet there are others who walk away when Ale Mohammad Ilm is being given to waste their time in idle talk in groups. May Allah grant our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) sehato-afiyaat-ta-kiyamat. Ameen.

Article-35 # (Quran E Hakeem)

Quran-e-Hakeem is 'afzlo kulle shayin-dun-Allah'. Moulana Ali (s.a) has said that HIKMAH is the lost property of mumin; retrieve it from where ever you get it. While reading the booklet 'Do you know this Book?' by M.Tahawi I came across an interesting research carried by Dr.Maurice Buccaille concerning Fir'aun (Pharaoh) who pursued Musa Nabi (s.a.) and his followers. The Quran verses which inspired him to do research are from Surah YUNUS 10: 90-92. 90. And We took the Children of Israel across the sea, and Fir'aun with his hosts followed them in oppression and enmity, till when drowning overtook him, he said. "I believe that none has the right to be worshipped but He (Allah) in Whome the Children of Israel believe, and I am one of the Muslims. 91. Now (you believe) while you refused to believe before and you were one of the Musfidun (evil doers, corrupters) 92. So this day, We deliver your (dead) body (out from the sea) that you may be a sign to those who come after you! And verily, many among mankind are heedless of our Ayat (signs, proofs, lessons etc;) This is what the Holy Qur'an said about the story of Musa (s.a.) and Fir'aun and the sign Allah left for the people. In the words of Dr.Bucaille - " In June 1975 the Egyptian high authorities very kindly allowed me to examine the parts of the Pharaoh' s body that had been covered until then. They also allowed me to take photographs. What may already be derived from this examination is the discovery of multiple lesions of the bones with broad lacunae. He most probably died either from drowning or from very violent shocks preceding the moment when he was drowned or both at once. The connection of these lesions with the deterioration whose sources have been mentioned above renders the correct preservation of the mummy of the Pharaoh problematical, unless precautionary and resorative measures are not taken very soon...it is the material presence of the mummified body of the man who knew Moses, resisted his pleas, pursued him as he took flight and lost his life in the process. His earthly remains were saved by the Will of God from destruction to become sign to man, as it is written in the Qur'an. Those who seek among modern data for proof of the veracity of the Holy Scriptures will find a magnificient illustration of the verses of the Qur'an dealing with the Pharaoh's body by visiting the Royal Mummies Room of the Egyptian Museum, Cairo!" For an adna mumin like me, I need not go that far, the presence of my Moula (TUS) itself is sufficient proof, a glowing Ayat, casting radiance all round, dispelling darkness, and taking his tabe-eens on a train journey and will surely and safely reach the destination. May Allah grant my Moula (tus) barakats and choicest bounties and a long and healthy life. Aameen .

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Article-36 # (ALIENS ARE COMING – humour)

During the past several days an interesting subject is evolving on our net. And in order to know more about it and at the same time to contribute to the engrossing discussion, I clicked on to the fasted search engine, Google.com and within seconds hundreds of sites on aliens, extraterrestial and UFO popped on the screen and within mintues I was practically lost to this world. I had logged on after coming from work and was so immersed, that inspite of persistent requests from my wife to join them for dinner, I waved her off, and was just transfixed before the monitor serfing the alien world in awe and exitement. As hours flew by the entire houshold became quiet and except for the occasional clicks, the house was enveloped in eerie silence. I felt my skin becoming rubbery and never before felt sensations took control of my senses, the darkness started playing tricks. All this while I could vaguly feel that my devoted wife was praying, praying hard with deep concern in the adjacent room and pleading with Allah to bring her husband back, restore normalcy. In must have been long past midnight, I do not know the exact hour, but I was busy examining the thermodynamics of the UFO that had landed in Cincinati, when all of a sudden my wife darted in, and she whispered a few words in my ear. A miracle happened,I was taken aback, and immediately I shut down the computer. What were the words, AH ! AH! I can visulize everyone drawing their own conclusions, I would love to keep everyone guessing, but as I am the well wisher of DB Net and as the words were was great import, I will like to share it with you all.The magical words she uttered in Arabic were - 'manarafa nafs-sahu' which roughly translates as 'first know your self, your own soul'. Wise words indeed that brought me back to my senses. I realized that first I should know myself, my existence, my purpose in life etc: I should begin with introspection. We have others who are devoting their time and money and tracking the aliens, NASA is busy at it, and our very own Sk: Husainibhai Jamali is there, and if any radio signals - the beeps are heard loud and clear, he will the first to inform us. So I have decided to leave the aliens on their own, and have embarked on the journey to know myself. Mumineen!! In this wide world there is one and only 'ruhani bawa shafiq' our Moula (tus)merely standig before whose spirtual presence, his 'didar' will surely make us know our selves. Everyone will surely agree. So today I embark on the journey to 'know myself' by attending the Iftetah of Qubba Mubaraka Nuraniya at Mandvi.One 'nazrat e rahima' of my Moula (tus) will flood me with insight and spirituality, and save me from gropping in the dark, and going thru the tedious thousands of pages of 'computer downloads'. VAS SALAM.

Article-37 # (THE IMPOTANCE OF PRAYERS)

I would like to share with my fellow brethren, a few thoughts on the most important a'amal - Prayers. 51:56 And I (Allah) created not the jinn and mankind except that they should worship me. 51:57 I seek no provision from them, neither do I desire that they should sustain Me. 51:58 Verily, Allah is the All Provider, Possessor of Power, the most strong. ADH DHARIYAT : 51 Thus from the above ayats it becomes crystal clear that by offering prayers to Allah, by our devotion and Dua, we are the ones who would be receiving His bounties. His worship is in our own interest, for our well being and for our emancipation.

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Prayer is supplication and Praise of Allah and our complete surrender to Him not merely by words but in deed and in thought. Prayer is putting ones faith in the hands of Allah. The commitment should be total, both of body and mind. We should prayer in complete surrender to His Lord. One should also prayer with feeling and marefah. When standing before Allah one should feel the Glory and Power of the Lord. Thus the sublime radiance of the lote tree in the seventh heaven and the tiniest seed in the dark recess of the earth are as one in His Knowledge, may His name be praised. The spiritually observant person although created of clay can aspire to the heavens. By selfless dua and devotion one can alchamize his triviality with sublimety and surpass the angels, who have been created sublime. Man on the other hand created of baser elements overcomes his handicap and earns Allah's pleasure. For the westernised oriented thinking persons, no doubt there are many in our community, who do not come out openly, but have assailing doubts corroding their faith, here are some hard facts. Harvard Medical School associate professor Dr. Herbert Benson has brought new understanding on the effects of prayer. He notes that 60 to 90 percent of doctor visits are for stress related illness - including hypertension, infertility, insomnia and cardiovascular disease. But Benson has shown that the relaxed state brought on by prayer and meditation reduces the impact of stress hormones, such as, noradrenaline and adrenaline. "Repetitive prayer slows a person's heart and breathing rates," he says. "It lowers blood pressure and even slows brain waves, all without drugs or surgery." (Reader's Digest - Dec:1998 ) Prayer is an open hearted acceptance of the bounty and benefits, and whole hearted thanksgiving to Him who confers it. A life of prayer and devotion is not merely religiously offering of salat appointed times, ones entire life should be a form of continual prayer. In Islam earning livelihood by just and honest means is also akin to prayers, likewise different aspects of life and its noble persuasion with the sole aim of betterment of individual self and society and the world at large is IBADAT. However without valayat and true tawheed, all our efforts and prayers come to a nought. In prayers the khalis niyaat should always be that this my Ibadat is not for personal gratification and gains, but in the riza of Allah, his Vali Imam uz - Zaman (S.A.) and in his seclusion Dai ul Mutlaq who in our times embodies the illustrious personality, the malakuti farishta our bawa - shafiq Moula Mohammad Burhanuddin Saheb (TUS) whose valayat in our hearts is the only parameter by which our Ibadat becomes acceptable in the eyes of Allah. True Ibadat is a person's heeding to the will of Allah in every situation, his keeping the activities within the bounds of what Allah and His Vali has commanded and prohibited, acknowledging his human abilties, true repentance with a conviction not to repeat the mistakes and seeking the guidance and help of Allah and His Vali in times of tribulations and doubts. May Allah grant our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) whose entire life is a continuous Doa, a supplication to Allah and His Vali Imamuz -zaman (S.A.) sehato -afiyat -ta- kiyamaat. Aameen.

Article-38 # (ENGLISH TRANSLATIONS OF NASHIHAT)

English translation of a few stanzas from the Nasihat – ' duniya ni tu ragbat thi ..... of Syedi Sadikali Saheb.

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1. From your bosom, remove away worldliness douse the fire of craving with Godliness, let tears of repentance flow, to wash away the sins and do direct your heart, on the path of virtue,the life that remains is most precious, save it by repentance, which is an ocean of goodness. 2. If you care to see, this world is bereft of virtue, it appears to be so inviting, but is poison concealed, everyone is seen to be engrossed in its false dazzle, my people, do seek the hereafter, this world a mere passage, through which we pass, to finally arrrive and assemble in the hereafter that is to last. 3. Remove the fat of heedlessness from your eyes, see with a forsight, and contemplate on this world, where lakhs have been torn apart by clutches of death, to dust they have returned, being lowered in graves, inspite of being a witness to this, you get deceived, you naive, why a mere drop of honey attracts you so. 'ek pal tu mat khuda ne eh banda visarje ..... 1.Do not for a moment be unmindful of Allah, let your hearts be covered with the colour of His Oneness, by repentance, do lessen the burden of your sins, and with good deeds increase the wealth of your bounties, so that your soul stands perfected in your lifetime, to finally reside in jannat, as also the world heaps praises. 2. Each day death stretches its arrows on its bow, and aims at countless new breeds of human your presence here is merely like a lightening, a flash to be engulfed, in the darkness of the grave. A hundred years is in fact a mere dream, the civilization does surely deteriorate, each passing day 5. Be careful from now, as this is life's final stage, mould your body in the difficult task of prayers, listen, distance your heart from haughtiness, turn the charger of your soul, towards His Oneness. With overflowing tears rinse away the sins, with hidden qualities of repentance, wash away the stains. The verses from this nasihat are often recited in dawat majlis, for in it Syedi Sadikali saheb in his own unique and appealingway brings out the pathos of Karbala with the words - ' guzri che karbala ma ajab tor ni bala...' How heart wrenchingthe words: 'Gar Marta to Pani Pilavee ne Marta Shabbir upar na buthi chhuri ne guzarta' I do not have the heart or the expertise to translate the most poignant verses, but I humbly request all those who have access to this nasihat, to spare some moments and do tilawat of a few verses followed by doa for umre-darazi of our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) whose each and every kalaam is a glowing nasihat to mumineen. Syedi Sadikali Saheb in his own unique andaaz makes us do marefat of our Aqa Moula (TUS) The nasihat ends with the verse: "Dai che pan ginaye che goya Imam ma Che muktada azal thi salaat o siyaam ma Mazmoon hiqmato na che jena kalam ma Arwah ni haj yakeen che jena salaam ma (Saifuddin)Burhanuddin na chera ma hi Rab nu che vuzud Karze jukhi ne ehne tu Sadik Ali sujuud"

Article-39 # (Taffakur)

Verily! In the creation of the heavens and the earth, and in the alternation of night and day, there are indeed signs for men of understanding. - 190 :Surah Al-Imran

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Scientific fact: Every minute, it is estimated, some 3,00,000,000 cell die in the human body, most of them to replaced immediately by division of the cells that remain - so that the total number of cells in the adult body remains virtually constant throughout life. (Ref: Book - The Atlas of the Body and Mind, The Michele Beazley Publication) Taffakur: In the preceding series, we reflected on the Glory and Power of Allah in His macro creation of universe, which simply took our breath away. Now let us turn our gaze inward, and reflect on His most glorious and perfect micro creation - the human being that has been endowed with His Munificence that words fail to describe. Reflect on any single aspect of the human body, and you will find perfection to the very core. We should always glorify His Name, we should always reflect on His creation. Being born mumin, we should be forever grateful and thankful to Allah than all others who inhabit our planet. At times when adversities and complexities of life shatter our dreams, enchain our progress, we feel depressed, it is but natural. Next time your are feeling depressed and rather unimportant, try out this little arithmetic trick based on the undebatable fact that it took two people, your parents, to get you here. Each of your parents had two parents, so in the generation just prior to that of your mother and father, there were four people whose pairing off and sharing love, contributed to your existence. Keep on multiplying the number by two. If you figure an average of 25 years between each generation, you will be surprised to discover that a scant 500 years ago there were 10, 48,576 people on this planet beginning the production of you. I have written above piece with a purpose. It is celebration time folks!! We are celebrating the Milad Mubarak of our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) Do away with your 'blues' and discard your 'poor me' attitude and join with gusto and unbound joy, in celebrating the 90th Salgirah Mubarak. Take active part in your mohalla tanzeem programes. Let it be Hamd(shukr) to the power of Hamd (shukr) all the way till 20th Rabiul-Ukhra and way way beyond, make this formula a part of your life. See yourself evolving into a fuller and finer being. We have received very encouraging and heart-warming akhbars from Canada that Aqa Moula (TUS) is in the best of health, may Allah keep him so for eons. Ameen. He has been to Niagara Falls and also for tafrih in the lush forest and lakes of North Ontario. ALHAMDOLILLAH ! As he is enjoying the splendor of Nature, he must surely be reflecting and contemplating of things, which we know not. 'unchi tor ataari - mein ne pankh liye katwaye' MOULA you have attained such glorious spiritual and eminence height, whereas we mired in worldly trappings, like silk worms entrapped in their own cocoon, look upon you to bless us with 'kuvvate parvaz'. With all our failings Moula, our yearning is true, and you will for sure, take all of us with you - and it for this very reason that we celebrate with marefat your 90th Milad Mubarak. Now that London has received the singular barakat of being the host city for the 90th Salgirah celebration, in the coming days it will be the 'axis' on which the entire community's aspirations and attention will revolve. MUBARAK! MUBARAK! May the celebrations be such, that it may be remembered for years to come, and the barakats, resulting therefrom bless generations to come.Ameen.

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Verily! In the creation of the heavens and the earth, and in the alternation of night and day, there are indeed signs for men of understanding. - 190 :Surah Al-Imran RESEARCHED FACTS: Humanity uses free natural resources worth a total of 20.7 trillion British pounds each year, according to report published by a team of ecologists and economists from the University of Maryland in the USA. That is the average value placed on services, such as irrigation, pollination, waste disposal and raw materials, such as oxygen, metals and minerals provided annually by the Earth. The staggering sum means Mother Nature gives us nearly twice as many goods and services as we produce ourselves, with the output of GNP of the human world economy valued at just 3 trillion pounds. It was calculated by the Maryland team to highlight the vital but unsung contribution of the Earth to human welfare. Publishing their research in Nature magazine, the team led by Professor Robert Costanza, warns that the lack of price tag on the world's ecosystem has meant a failure to appreciate their true worth..." The economies of the Earth would grind to a halt without the services of ecological life support systems, so in one sense their total value to the economy is infinite". Source : Article - Our 20 trillion pound debt to nature by Simeon Tegel - The Guardian [reprinted in The Telegraph - Calcutta.] Tafakkur : The above research facts are indeed a 'wake-up' call for all those who have been brought up on the apparent belief that it is the human race, with its superior brain and brawn power that is responsible for the progress and prosperity and continuity on this planet. The advertisement blitz carried around the world by MNC's and others have instilled in our mind set, that had it not been for their extensive research and efforts, we would have been left much poorer - the Glorious creation of Allah does not even get a passing reference and mention, most of the time. The belief in 'materialism' is so deep rooted amongst the career oriented, 'info tech coolies' as one leading Indian scientist calls the rat race pack. If an appointment or meeting is missed, they get so agitated and upset, but if a 'namaz' or 'mazlis' is missed, there is no realization or feeling of any sort. Rabbul- Alamin is not only the Creator of everything in the universe but its nourisher and sustainer as well. We should always offer Hamd and shukr to Allah for His azeem ehsanaats,and should reflect on His Glorious Creation. Aqa Moula (TUS) had established The Burhani Foundation for environment preservation and studies, as an act of Hamd and Shukr. It is true that the enlightened and emancipated are always in perpetual awe and wonder of the Glories of Allah. We are like a well frog, who fails to comprehend the vastness of an ocean. Once an ocean frog comes visiting a well frog, and the host is delighted to show the visitor his home. As the talk progresses, the well frog becomes curious and asks the ocean frog about his home. How big it is etc.: To his reply that it is very very big, the well frog is not satisfied, and wants to know how really big it is. He jumps from one end of the well to the other end twice, thrice a hundred times and more, and each times asks - that big - the ocean frog is at a loss, as to how to make his dear friend understand. Such is the problem faced by the truely enlightened souls. Thus the Glory, Power and Munificence of Allah is realized by His Vali, who in our times is none other than our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) whose 90th Milad Mubrak, we mumineen the world over are celebrating. We should hold firmly with conviction and faith his 'daman' - the act in itself is our emancipation. Now that Aqa Moula (TUS) has reached London for Milad Mubarak, the makami mumineen must be overjoyed and are ready to 'set the Thames on fire - nay to set the Thames a glow with rich cultural Fatemi heritage and traditions, that will enliven the minds of mumineen the world over for many years to come. My humble prayers are with all the khidmatgujars. May Allah grant my beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) sehato -afiyaat - ta- kiyamat. Ameen.

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Verily! In the creation of the heavens and the earth, and in the alternation of night and day, there are indeed signs for men of understanding. - 190 :Surah Al-Imran Expert Ants: The organization, specialization in fields, and communications in the ant world is almost as successful as among human beings. This is true to such an extent that human beings are patterning their systems today on the harmonious system of the ants. The excerpt below illustrates this point: Computer experts today are trying to reproduce in laboratories the collective behaviour forms of ants in robots. Instead of very advanced programmes, they are focusing on robots that co-operate devising between themselves on the basis of "simple" information elements. In these studies, the basic principle is the same. Instead of forming a highly advanced robot, the intention is to develop a herd of robots that are less "intelligent" but which will undertake the most "complex" tasks, just as the ants do in the ant colony… These robots will not be very advanced from the point of "intelligence" when taken one by one, but they will achieve the division of labour by collective action motivation. This will be possible because they will have the capacity to exchange the simplest information with each other. The life and co-operation in the ant colony has also influenced NASA… The organization is planning to send many "ant robots" for research on the planet Mars instead of a single advanced robot. Thus, even if some of them are destroyed, the surviving members of the team will be able to complete their tasks.(Book - The Miracle in the Ant by Harun Yahya)

Tafakkur: Now that is some startling revelation mumineen! The giant Goliath (sophisticated advanced science and information technology)learning some basics from the lowly David (the ant) In fact in the Holy Quran they find a pride of place as Surah : 27 - An-Naml is named after them. If you go to see in reality, they are in fact not lowly to be trampled around by us, but in their collective work, military strategy, advanced communication network, astute and rational hierarchy, discipline, perfect city planning - the humans have much to learn from them. Now if that is a difficult pill to swallow, I cannot help it, because a fact is a fact. The oldest of them are 80 million years old, and they began socializing 40 million years ago, and as on date there are approx.: 8800 species. Now that is some statistics that humans cannot match.

Now whenever you see the ants say aloud ALHAMDOLILLAH and reflect on Allah's Glorious creation and try to learn more about them. Everything that appears to be very simple, is in fact very complex. You may have observed your peers and elderly, specially your mother 'threading the needle'. In order to thread the needle, she puts it between her lips or presses it between her thumb and finger, so that the protruding fibres are smoothened, once the thread is thus narrowed down, can we say 'becomes humble' it easily passes through the needle. Likewise if we remove the protruding fibres of ego, pretence, deceit, one-upmanship etc.: and become humble to learn lessons in life even from a lowly creature like an ant, we will evolve into a fuller contemplative, fulfilled (one who does not need material crutches to feel happy, one who does not strive after happiness, but himself is happiness personified) human being. If I give you an example, it would be easy to understand. Just look at our bawa -safique, our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) whose 90th Milad Mubrak we have just celebrated. He is humility personified. The vaaz relay on his Salgirah day has proved that this chosen one of Allah is not 'mehdood' (restrained) by zaman (time) and makan (place). In real time on his single nida of YA HUSAIN the entire length and breath of this world reverberated with matam and tasabih of YA HUSAIN. It would be a singular service to the community, and unique in the Fatemi history, if computer enthusiasts pool their resources and talent to arrive at the number of time YA HUSAIN was said by mumineen the world over after Dai e Husain recited the sahadat and gave the nida of matam by crying aloud YA HUSAIN. By listening to the vaaz tape, the tasabih

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count during the particular time (I think there was continuos matam was + 10 minutes) multiplied by number of mumineen in each centre, we can arrive at a fairly accurate count of YA HUSAIN said by mumineen the world over, on a single nida of Dai-e-Husain on his 90th Milad Mubarak. May Allah grant my beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) sehato -afiyaat - ta- kiyamat. Ameen.


Verily! In the creation of the heavens and the earth, and in the alternation of night and day, there are indeed signs for men of understanding. - 190 :Surah Al-Imran There is a subtle change here from the preceding series - a reverse swing you may say. In the earlier series a science or researched fact was stated which resulted in 'tafakkur'. In this one 'taffakur' leads to an interesting fact - a Glorious creation of Allah, that will surely spellbind you, and on reading it, you will surely cry aloud ALHAMDOLILLAH! Tafakkur: Just the other day after fazr namaz while reciting takarrub, the contemplative eye fell on the cupped up hands, and I thought, why are the fingers all different and not uniform, the thumb way down etc.: The immediate reason that came to mind, was it may be for better grip and holding of objects.

The mind is like a child - innocently curious though prankful and mischievous. I was curious to know more, and what other better way than to log on to www.google.com. I posted the query -' fingers of human hand and why different.' Hey presto! within seconds 2,66,000 sites were ready to bombard me with information.

What I want to convey is that a little time devoted in contemplation of the glorious creation of Allah, in this case, the fingers of the human hand, can reward you with a gold mine of information. Now I did not say knowledge or wisdom, merely information. You can be very informative, but to be knowledgeable and wise, you have to hold steadfast to the 'daman' of the Vali of Allah, the enlightened, the blessed, the truly appointed one, one who is Al Alim in its totality.

You very well know to whom I am referring, I can very well feel the emotions building up as you read this, the tears of Hamd and Shukr as you recollect his azeem minnat and nemaats. Believe me mumineen, all those 2,66,000 sites may make you merely informative, but if your thirst is for wisdom, and if your seeking is true, you will surely get it, from the stream of kauser, which is overflowing its banks to reach out to those mumineen who are still far from the flowing river. The vaaz relay on 90th Milad Mubarak, is a case in point.

Now coming back to the Glorious creation of Allah, this is what I had gleaned from the net.

How Do You Touch? In a recent article on haptics (the Greek derived word for the study of touch) in Smithsonian, June, 2000, page 38, MIT's "touch lab" is mentioned. This is a laboratory run by Mandayam Srinivasan that is especially concerned with how the human hand perceives touch. The sensitivity of the human hand is absolutely incredible. Each fingertip of your hand has about 2,000 receptors just for touch. These receptors are so sensitive that they can detect a dot just three microns high. To get a feeling for how small this is, a human hair is more than 50 microns in diameter. If you had a surface that had a rough spot on it that was .000000075 meters high, your finger could detect it. Visible light is slightly less than 10 times smaller than that, so our fingers are not too far away from being able to detect the presence or absence of different colors of light. Trying to understand how all this is possible has gotten researchers into an area so complex that there is still no answer as to how it works. It appears that the fingerprint ridges on the bottom of your outer skin layer act as amplifiers. These ridges

are:

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Much like the ridges you see when you look at your fingerprint. Not only are there several kinds of nerve receptors that give us the sensation of touch, but there are also receptors for other sensations. Some receptors detect heat and a completely different set of receptors detect cold both calibrated against normal body temperature so they only work if the temperature goes above or below 98.6°F. There are three kinds of pain receptors-one for mechanical pain, one for thermal pain, and one for chemical pain. There is a separate set of receptors for itch. Some of these sensors sense the stretch of your skin around joints as you move providing information about how your body is moving. These stretches can be understood even with your eyes closed. Srinivasan says "We have no idea how these electrical impulses translate into perceptions and feelings." ALHAMDOLILLAH! The sensitivity of the human hand is not as a result of an effort or intelligence of human being, but a gift from Allah to all a sundry. So do reflect on the Glorious creation of Allah.

May Allah grant my beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) sehato -afiyaat - ta- kiyamat. Ameen.

Article-43 # (Quran E Hakeem )

Verily! In the creation of the heavens and the earth, and in the alternation of night and day, there are indeed signs for men of understanding. - 190 : Surah Al-Imran Scientific fact: The retina is a transparent, paper thin layer of nerve tissue at the back of the eyeball, on which the eye's lens projects an image of the world. It is connected by the optic nerve, a million fibre cell, to regions deep in the brain. A human retina is less than a centimetre square and half millimetre thick. It takes robot vision programme about 100 computer instructions to derive single edge or motion detection from a comparable video image. 100 million instructions are needed to do a million detection's, and 1000 MIPS to repeat them ten times per second to match the retina. (Article on the net - ' When will computer hardware match the human brain - Hans Moravec) Tafakkur: Just go to think of it. Thousands of birth per minute around the world - chubby cheeks, rosy lips, dimple chin, glowing eyes with retina in place, needing no computer programme, no human ingenuity, no advertisement promotion - a complete packaging, a miracle indeed. All Hamd is for Allah for his Glorious creation. With the help of retina, we are able to see, and that itself is marvel of Allah's creation. But as I was reflecting on this, a thought provoking aspect of 'seeing' held me spell bound and I cried aloud ALHAMDOLILLAH! I know exactly the place and the time it occurred. The day was 24th July'01. 'To see' is relative to one who is seeing. To illustrate my point, I will narrate a very common sight that we happen to see a number of times. A kite (bird of hawk family) who has ensnared a mouse firmly between its legs, was being pursued frantically by other kites and crows, and there was a much commotion up in the sky. A common scene that we witness in our cities. Coming to my point, the above scene being enacted high in the sky was seen by different types of people at the same time. For the street children fighting over coins thrown out to them from the passing car, the chase in the skies, provided a merry diversion, and they cheered and ran around and looked up expectantly, as to what will be the final outcome. For a Merrill Lynch & Co.Inc: executive enjoying his lunch break on the 20th floor plush office and looking out of the glass windows, the spectacle in the sky is viewed with interest, as the art of survival in the highly competitive market place, by

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deft and timely marketing techniques. He is thinking of incorporating one or two features from the fight in the sky and the lessons learnt, in the report on 'overriding the market sentiments', that he is busy preparing for the upcoming seminar. For a betting syndicate boss out for lunch with his cronies, the fight above in the sky, gives them an opportunity to horn their 'betting skills' and each puts his bet, on who will ultimately get the prized booty - in this case the mouse. A politician who is facing censor and investigations resulting from 'tahelka type' exposures, sees himself as the 'poor kite' who is being pursued, one who has by dint of hard work got hold of the well deserved 'meat' and now his own tribe is after him, to rob him of the booty. A radical trade unionist addressing a meeting looks up and on seeing the spectacle in the sky, exhorts his comrades to unitedly fight for their rights, and kite with the prey is seen as the bourgeois capitalist who alone wants to enjoy the fruits of their collective labour. Thus a common spectacle is seen in countless other ways by different set of people. Now let me bring you back to what finally happens high up in the sky.The kite tries many ways to escape with its prey. At last exhausted and disgusted, it drops the mouse, which is instantly caught by another kite, which is now hotly pursued. Once free of its burden, it alights to rest on a tree branch, beneath which a wise sage is sitting and he has also been observing closely the spectacle in the sky. I fear this tenth series, which will be the last, is becoming a bit too long. I should adhere to the maxim in the interest of my readers that 'the mind will absorb only what the seat will endure' So as regards what the sage 'sees' and thinks about the entire episode, I will narrate in the next part. Meanwhile, readers are welcome to e-mail their thoughts on what the wise man may have 'seen' and thought of the spectacle. It would make interesting reading. May Allah grant my beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) sehato -afiyaat - ta- kiyamat. Ameen.

Article-44 # (THE PARTY BEGINS - I'M LOVIN' IT)

THANK YOU Lehman Brothers for starting the PARTY. As this blog is community centric, I will be writing only from our perspective. We are a trading community, so every one is well aware of the implication of the recent economic meltdown. But you will be wondering why I am going out of my way, thanking Lehman Brothers Be ready, I am in the best Party mood now, so you are bound to notice, a little change in my style of writing this post. AQA MOULA (TUS) had been telling all along, particularly with great emphasis after Al-Multaqul- Fatemi-ul- Ilmi 1398H (1977-78). I will not go into the details. Every one is well aware of, and his keynote address is on record. Syedi Sadik Ali sahib had said it long back, in his most inimitable style, in nashihat after nashihat. But pray who was listening. Foreclosure, insider trading, forward trading, leverage, mortgages, investments parked in different weird financial products, that few really understood, were ruling the minds of, sorry to say, many of our own community members, many, sorry to say who were regarded as Intellectuals, purely on the basis of the assets they possessed. They strutted around on community platforms and forums. The Fatemi attire was all in place, the platitudes, outward pretence, was all in place, but inside something real was missing. It is Lehman Brothers who have proved Aqa Moula (TUS) right by going bust, and starting a tsunami all around the world, leading to carnage, blood bath, rising and falling like gigantic Mexican wave, that has rumbled through the global markets, ripping pockets and reputation.

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Here in this post I am only concerned with the reputation and ripping of the pockets of our community members. If any one cares to read my blog profile, they will come to know that ‘social work’ is my passion. I do not myself know why, and although I get a lot of ‘stick’ at times, I continue to indulge in my passion. Now when many of our own brethrens, termed paper wealth parvenus (as put in by The Telegraph Friday 24th) are at the risk of turning into paupers, how can I remain immune. All these years, it has been my lot to reach out to all those, who somehow came to me for medical aid, educational aid etc: and although I have failed many a times, I have tried to assuage a few, by seeking financial help from donors. So my immediate concern when the economic meltdown story made the headlines was towards our brethren. I am a real dud when it comes to understanding economy, and matters of finance. However, the plight is such that I have skipped work today; just in order to find out, if I can be of any help to my fellow mumineen. I am so very pained to see their sullen faces, and I want to reach out to them, in this time of their need. So in order to understand the reason I simply googled ‘the main reason for the economic meltdown,’ and thousands of links popped up on my browser. As I told you earlier, I am real dud, when it comes to matters of finance, I was simply overwhelmed by the statistic and data, but it was my passion to reach out to fellow mumineen, who are in ‘real soup’ mumineen, who are with each passing day seeing their investments dwindle, mumineen who cannot fathom what is happening, why it is happening, so I tried my level best to understand the root of the problem. After spending nearly six long hours at the computer, skipping lunch, and being reprimanded by my wife, for being good for nothing, pursuing matters, which least concerns us, I finally found the answer. If you are diseased and once you come to know the cause of your illness, chances of your recovery will be fast. So first the prime cause, has to be ascertained. After much effort and pain I have found out the real cause of this economic meltdown. It is my dear friends THE GREED OF MANKIND TO ACQUIRE WEALTH Are you surprised at this simple answer, arrived after so much research. Believe me, this is the truth friends, and remember, truth is always simple, falsehood is more complex (read the earlier paragraph starting ‘foreclosure, insider trading etcJ Hope I have made my point clear. What I have found out after so much painstaking effort, had already been around for so many years. Rasulallah (S.A.) Moulana Ali (SA) Imams (SA) Doat Mutlaqeen (RA) and our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) has been saying it all along. But it needed a Jewish family controlled firm LEHMAN BROTHERS to emphatically bring in the truth to our believing mumineen, by going bust. Hope I have made my point clear. More about Lehhman Brothers in future post. I would like to get views and opinions on my post, and any one brave enough to write, how the meltdown has effected his holdings. They need not disclose their name, only an admission from them will suffice.

Article-45 # (Metamorphosis of Page 3 reader)

I am a Page 3 reader, as Politics does not interest me, nor does Sports or Business news for that matter. It may be because of my 'chota dimag' I am not so sure. However, the current economic meltdown, has caught my fancy, I do not know why. May be something good will surely emerge, is what I feel. I generally flip through The Telegraph, but today some thing drove me to buy The Economic Times. We the developing nations have always looked upon USA, and first and for most we report all that is happening there, for we know it is bound to have a great bearing on our developing nation's economy.

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As such, all the headlines that grabbed attention dealt with the happening in the US Market. These are just a few of them, in a nut shell. 2,40,000 job cuts in US during the month of Oct: '08., a record in 14 years. The real cause of worry is that not only the Banking and financial sectors, but downsizing is spreading across all sectors. Ford drains out $ 7.7 billion as sales falls. GM burns $ 2.5 billions in Q3 seeks bailout. Retail sales worst in 30 years. Really alarming when the US economy is powered with consumerism In India the Forex reserves dip by $5.5 billion as FII's stay in sell mode. Foreign exchange kitty has shrunk by $ 57 billion so far, this fiscal. The Confederation of Indian Textile Industry said some 7,00,000 people have lost their jobs, this year and 5,00,000 more were likely to go in the next 2 to 3 months. Demand meltdown dissolves 150 small sponge iron units in Eastern India, nearly 50% . Many more are on the verge of closing down. Airline Industry is the worst hit, employment rate is expected to shrink 40 -50% year on year. 150 Commercial pilots who have trained, shelling out Rs: 20-25 lacs are not getting the jobs. To lighten the burden a little, here is a flip side to the economic meltdown. Just got a mail from Benny Hinn ministry and they are offering Debt Cancellation Stickers, and will be offering special pray from freedom form debt. I simply chuckled when I got the mail, and I reserve my comments. I wish it is that simple.!!! It is very important to understand the genesis of the crisis. It is on account of the economic mismanagement at the individual level. According to US census data, per capita disposable personal income (net of taxes) was $30,418 in 2005 but average annual expenditure rose to $46,409 in the same year. This means, people in the US borrowed more than, what they earned to foot their consumption bills. From companies to investment banks, all drew up big expenditure plans on borrowed funds. In October 2004, the US securities market regulator suspended the restriction of net capital requirement to borrowed capital for Goldman Sachs, Merrill Lynch, Lehman Brothers, Bear Stearns and Morgan Stanley. Freed from restriction on debt, these five investment bankers borrowed as much as 40 times of their net owned capital !!!!!!!!!!! (input from article in the Telegraph by Srikumar Bondyopadhyay) So now Allah forbid, but if you happen to get a pink slip, you know whom to blame. The GREED of the five top Investment Bankers and US securities market regulator. The financial misadventures of a few vested interests have brought miseries to thousands of hard working Professionals. I sincerely hope and pray that there is not one from our community who looses his job any where around the world. We do not need Debt Cancellation Stickers, what we need is the Doa Mubarak of our Aqa Moula (TUS) and his doa mubarak will surely be answered in us, if we follow the tenets of our Deen and have firm faith in his doctrines of earning livelihood with rightful means.

Article-46 # (RUMINATING THE GLOBAL MELTDOWN )

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I have chosen the cud chewing camel, as my BRAND for this post. A BBC news report showed the world map and the countries fast slipping into recession, right from Japan across Europe to United States, red areas sweeping the world. They showed red on the world map, and something twitched in my brain, and I visualized barren desert, that is economic wilderness sweeping the world. Although India is not slipping into recession, as of now, the repercussions are being felt. We cannot like an Ostrich keep our head buried in the sand, and wish nothing will effect us. Grim economic facts are hitting at us each day. For ordinary businessman like us, it is very hard to digest, as to what has happened , all so sudden. Just a few months ago, order books were full, rate of return was marginally good, stocks were giving good profit. Expansion and diversification was on agenda, and now every thing seems topsy turvy, for no apparent lapse on our part.

The rich economically vibrant Savannah lands populated by highly qualified and high salaried MBA and Financial Whiz Kids, is slowly turning into economic wilderness, and all their expertise and high sounding theories and strategies are unable to stem the tide. WHY? The Corporate world is populated with the World's best brains, we are always in awe of them. They have mastered the Theories of Relativism, utilitarianism, universalism, have given and attended lectures on Corporate Ethics, Corporate Social Responsibility. They have talked and discussed at lenght on COSCO (Control Smart Approach) The Sarbanes- Oxly Act 2005 was there to regulate Executive Conduct Rules and Financial Accounting Rules in the US. What happened, more important why it had to happen ? The Blue Chips across all sectors of business and industries became red herrings, within a matter of months. Were the lessons learnt at premier Business Institutes were to blame for this debacle ? MBA's had spent years in getting acquainted with Marketing Analysis, Organizational Behavior, Economics, Finance, Quantitative analysis, Strategy Planning etc: Synergy/ Ansoff Matrix/ Beta/ The Efficient Frontier/FRITO/SWOT Analysis/ Segmentation Variables /Goal congruence / APCFB Model had been discussed, and expertise acquired for implementation. Acquiring the nuisance of Keynesian Theory - Monetarist Theory helped in getting hefty pay packages. Why then the same people who are at the helm of the affairs of the Corporate world, failing to check the economic tsunami? After reading all this, you must be wondering what I am aiming at, what I am trying to convey. I am giving the business world badly bruised and at their wits end - a new technique in Management Science that is - RUMINATING and I appeal to all those best brains being 'benched' and are in fear to getting the dreaded 'pink slip' to get cracking, as you are the ones who can come up with something extraordinary, that will save your organisation and your job. It is high time to bring back into focus, to think over and over again, like 'ruminants' (camels, cows etc:) who bring back the undigested food back to their mouth from their stomach - the first part of the total four compartments, which is called 'rumen') By so doing the food is digested fully. Now is the time to think over again as to all that has been learnt, and where did we go wrong. All the theories and strategies, and business models are inherently good, but what went wrong.

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Now if we start RUMINATING in earnest, we will come to know, that what has be learnt at the Business Schools and else where is not to be faulted, but a few unscrupulous amongst the corporate world, managed to acquire power, greed made them totally blind, and things got out of control. As this concept of RUMINATING is in a very nascent stage, and I am not an expert, I appeal to those, who may have cared to read this post, and may be interested with this new idea, to help in carrying this concept at the next level, by your comments, feed back and suggestions. I have been RUMINATING on the recent developments, and the first fully digested thoughts, I take the liberty to share with my readers. There is no fault with the Business Theories and studies, the fault is in the total moral deprivation, of the few who have managed to reach the top. As one sage has said -' By the light of the candle, one reads Scriptures and another morally deprived, forges a document. The purpose of the candle is to shed the light' So moral deprivation has to be addressed first and foremost, and this can be achieved through Spirituality. Special courses in spirituality and social responsibilities, should be undertaken. Future business Managers may be made to live and interact with underprivileged people, for at least 3 months, so that they can fully imbibe, understand and learn how these people eke out a living, and live a life of contentment and happiness, in spite of limited resources. How they overcome deprivation and challenges of life. I take the liberty to quote Dame Anita Rodrick, the Founder of Body Shop. ' Since leading Management Consultants, help take the movement mainstream, the core values, that shape ethical business practices have become compromised. The power that big business wields over governments, has resulted in both the governments and businesses, becoming far too obsessed with profit and economic growth' (quote ends) Ethics, moral values and social responsibilities have taken a beating. Some Corporate cultures are so engrossed with amassing wealth, building up assets, etc: that the analogy of male Crustacean (spider) given by Jacquess Loeb, who cut off his abdomen, while it was copulating, but the gallant continued undisturbed, as apparently all its sensory capacities were absorbed in another direction. Poiret tells a case in which the female bit off the head of a male mantis, as soon as it appeared, but the decapitated gallant, went through with his reproductive functions, as if nothing had happened, and the head was of no use in love. (Book Ref: The Pleasures of Philosophy - Will Durant) I request the readers to ruminate on the above analogy, and reflect on the conditions of the present economic meltdown, the corporate culture that has evolved through these past years, and once the thoughts are properly digested, one will surely find a way to make a 'turnaround' for the better. A case in point, is the dressing down recently received by the titans of General Motors, Ford and Chrysler, by the Congressmen at Washington DC , when they flew from Detroit each in their own private jets. Congressman Gary L Ackerman had no qualms in telling the pampered executives who still seemed to out of sync with the grave realities that ' There is a delicious irony in seeing private luxury jets flying into Washington DC, and people coming off them with tin cups in their hands' The trio listened in stoic silence as, whether they regretted their decision, we do not know. Chrystler's Robert Nardelli, showed sagacity and wisdom by accepting a $1 remuneration, under these troubled times. However, Richard Wagoner of General Motors and Alan Mullally, missed an opportunity of a lifetime, by not committing themselves.

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Had they done so, they would have lead by example and may be all the top ranking Directors and senior level executives, would have agreed to sacrifice, if not all, some part of their exhorbitant yearly remunerations. This in turn would have sent positive vibes to all rank of employees, who are dreading retrenchments.

Being the first post in this segment, it is in a nascent stage, and I know there are very bright, intelligent and qualified people, out there, who can do brainstorming and come out with winning solutions, so that this Corporate caravan can safely without much loss, overcome this wilderness.

Article-47 # (WEALTH AND MONEY - WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE )

From a recent interview given by Dr. Deepak Chopra on the ' Early Morning Show' I managed to gather a few nuggets, which I would like to share with you, in this very troubling time. According to Dr. Chopra out of a total 2.9 trillion dollars in daily circulation around the world, only 2% is used for providing actual goods and services for maintaining life, the remaining 98% is speculation, money circulating in the Casino. He has differentiated money and wealth. According to him, money is that which you have not earned, (money breeding money , I think that is what he means to imply) money is that with which you buy things, which you do not really need, to impress people whom you really do not like. Wealth according to him in the real sense is ..

1. Wealth is progressive realization of worthy goals. 2. Wealth is the ability to love and have compassion 3. Wealth is to have good health 4. Wealth is to have meaningful caring relationship. 5. Wealth is to get in touch with the creative power that very much resides inside you, which is also the creative power of the Universe.

I hope I have heard him correctly, you may log on to http://www.intentblog.com/archives/2008/11/deepak_chopra_t_1.html (copy paste on your browser please) and if there is some error in my post, do point it out to me, I will be obliged. So the big investing Bankers have created 'money' and have gone bust, now the 'awakened' will have to create 'wealth'. I think this is the silver lining in the dark looming clouds. The world leaders have converged for the Economic Summit to start today. Our Honourable Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh is also attending. It has been termed as Brenton Woods II. Hope the world leaders manage to put into real practice, effective checks and regulations for the financial markets, so that in future the woods ( our beautiful world) is not infested with 'wolves' of greed, in the garb of financial institutions, promising Al Dorado to gullible people. Please take care to ask a hardworking Professional, who has just received a 'pink slip' for no fault of his. Have emphaty was all those, who are trying to make an honest living but there is a residing fear in them of their future.

http://www.intentblog.com/archives/2008/11/deepak_chopra_t_1.html

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Article-48 # (WHEN WILL I LEARN )

AL QURAN SAYS: ' kulu-washrubu wa la tasrefu. Innahu la yoohibul musrefeen' (eat and drink but do not waste. Allah loveth not the prodigal) That is because the underlying cause of the great global credit crunch is the ingrained societal behaviour of the US and many other economies over the past two decades: instant gratification of "needs" without reference to the ability to earn the satisfaction of doing so. This did away with the economic virtue of thrift and encouraged excessive consumption. Excessive consumption resulted in global imbalances such as the US current account deficit. US and many other economies over the past two decades. Quote by : David Roche, President and Global Strategist at Independent Strategy, London. Hadees e Rasul e Karim (SA) 'majhul' is haram. Vepar (business) is halal and also full of blessings. 'Majhul' on the other hand is prohibited strictly, as it is speculation. Eg: I sell my date crop, receive the consideration of the sale, much before the date palms are to yield the crop. This is speculation. Syedi Sadikali Saheb has so aptly conveyed, and now the truth is hitting right on the faces of all those, who have indulged in speculative businesses in any form. 'zahir ma halavat che, pan zehr che khufiyah ma' An interesting read from Intent Blog comment on the article entitled 'Thrift' How does the stock exchange work: One day a man appeared in a village. He declared to want to buy acorns and he wanted to pay one Euro a piece for them. Because there were a lot of acorn trees in the village, villagers quickly began to gather acorns. A week later the man bought thousands of acorns for one Euro a piece. The man declared that he would be back a week later and would pay two ‘Euri’ for one acorn. And again villagers started to gather acorns, although there were a lot less left now. A week later the man appeared, paid two ‘Euri’ per piece and declared he would be back again one week later and would pay five ‘Euri’ per acorn. The stock of acorns was almost gone and the villagers did their utmost to yet find as many acorns as they could. And they still found some. The man appeared exactly on time, one week later, paid five ‘Euri’ per acorn and declared to come back a week later again and then would pay twenty ‘Euri’ per acorn. However, the villagers could not find a single acorn anymore. Then, a day later a second man appeared with a big bag with acorns on his back. The villagers asked whether they could buy the acorns from the man, but the man asked 15 ‘Euri’ for one acorn. The villagers gathered all the money they could find. They put all the savings they had together and bought the big bag with acorns. However, one week later the man did not appear. The villagers never saw the man again.They lost all their money and the only thing they had left was a large amount of acorns. And in this way, ladies and gentlemen, the stock exchange works…...

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Article-49 # (JAFR AL JAMEYE - AN ESOTERIC SCIENCE)

Qazi Dr. Sheikh Abbas Borhany is an erudite scholar of Islam and his in depth articles are published regularly. Recently I read his article in Malummat with regard to the esoteric science of Jafr al Jameye (Muslim Numerology and prediction of the future events) Coincidentally I was going to write a post on the subject of truthful prediction of future events in Quran. I came across a very interesting historical fact, which I will like to share with you in the post. Surat Al Rum (The Romans) Surah 30 Ayats 1-7 deals with a historic event which occurred precisely as narrated in The Quran. 'Alif-Lam- Mim The Byzantines (Romans) have been defeated in the land nearby ( Syria-Iraq-Jordan and Palestine) However, they shall win in a few years. To Allah belongs the command before and after. Then will the believers rejoice at the victory, which Allah has sent. With the help of Allah. He helps whom He wills, and He is the all Mighty, the Most Merciful. (It is) a Promise of Allah (ie: Allah will give victory to the Romans against the Persians) and Allah fails not in His Promise, but most of men know not. (Ayats 1-7) My purpose is to share with my readers, particularly my young friends, the historical facts and an interesting story behind it. In the Year 614 AD Chosroes sent an army to crush the Romans (Christans - People of the Book) under his General named Shahbaraz. The armies met in Adhri'at and Busra and the Persians (fire worshippers) inflicted heavy defeat. This event created much heat and storm amongst both the Muslims and idolaters in Makkah. The idolaters rejoiced at the defeat of the Christians, and poked fun at the Muslims. Although the event did not concern the fate of the Arabs, it generated a lot of arguments amongst the Muslim and idolaters. One of the asha'ab entered into a wager with an idolater of 10 camels stating that the Romans will win within a year. Muhammad (SA) told the asha'ab to revise the wager to 100 camels and extend the time to nine years. In the Year 625 AD (nine years from defeat) Heraclius (the Roman Emperor) was victorious. He defeated the Persians and also recovered the Cross Of Isa Nabi (SA) As predicted and on account of the esoteric knowledge possessed by Muhammad (SA) the prediction to the exact time of the victory over the Persians, came true.

Article-50 # (MUSIC TO OUR EARS)

MUSIC is not an anathema ( I am talking from our community perspective here) if understood and enjoyed in the right spirit. I am sharing with you some of the information I have collected on the subject, which will also set you thinking. Read on friends ………

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If you care to read history, you will come to know that the famous Arab philosophers, were the ones who expounded on Music. BU ALI SINA (Avicenna) defines music as ‘ a mathematical science ‘ in which there is discussed the state of melody, in so far as it is harmony or it is discord, and the state of intervening period. His book was entitled “Introduction to the art of Music’ His pupil Ibn Zaila wrote a Book – ‘Suffeciency in Music’ and his contemporary, the great mathematician and physicist Ibn Al Haitham, complied two studies on Music. KINDI’S extant works on musical theory are the earliest existing in Arabic. THABIT IBN QURRA - the mathematician – RAZI the physician philosopher, contributed to writing of musical treaties. FARABI - the great Islamic theorist’s book – ‘ Grand Book Of Music ‘ has been subject of modern study. He also wrote on the Style of Music and on the Classification of Rhythm. BUZJANI - the famous Mathematician wrote a Compendium on the Science of Rhythm. IKHWAN –US – SAFAH (Epistles) had an entire chapter on Music, which was widely known. SURPRISED! Is not reading all this music to your ears, my freinds! MUSIC IS NOT BAD! MUSIC ELAVATES THE MIND AND THE SPIRIT. MUSIC WHICH LEADS ONE TO THE ONENESS OF ALLAH, WHICH BRINGS OUT THE FINER SENTIMENTS OF CHARACTER, MUSIC WITH SOOTHS THE TROUBLED MIND AND EASES PAIN IS A REAL BLESSING. Like a human who can rise to be angelic or fall down to the depths, to even shame Satan, Music also emotes powerful contradictory forces on human mind and character. It is for this very reason, that in our Deen, in order to safeguard us from the negative and harmful effects of Music, directives with regard to music are issued and strictly adhered to. It is not a ‘gag’ as some wrongly view it, it is a blessing in disguise.

The philosopher’s of yore wrote extensively on the therapeutic value of the music, and the effect of different forms of composition on a man’s mood. They were interested on the spiritual awakening of the mind and soul. The music that is churned out now days, has the beat, the rhythm, sound, vibrations and the high and low pitch notes, it is foot tapping, hip swinging but not mind and soul awakening, and we as mumineen our more concerned with the therapeutic value and awakening of the mind and soul, rather than toning of our leg and hip muscle and bones !!! There are better exercises for achieving body flexiblity. It is not that musical instruments are banned but we make judicial use of it. However, we have developed the art of what is known as cappella music to a state of perfection. (It is vocal music or singing without instrumental accompaniment) For the last several years SAUTUL IMAN - a voice development project by Mahad Al Zahra is doing a commendable khidmat in the development of this genre of music. This year it was very interesting to see youngsters, downloading Marishyah from the Sautul Iman website for each particular day of Muhrram and sharing with each other and practicing recital. In a few years time, we will have youngsters perfecting the art of cappella music, at the same time learning a lot to differentiate between music that elevates the mind and soul and that which awakens baser passions and desires. Besides Marsiyah with broadly comprises ‘salaam’ – ‘musaddas’ - ‘noha’ (matami/non-matami) each having a particular form of rendering unique to its self, there are different forms of rhythm and recital beats, used for rendering Hamd – O

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Sana (the lyrical quality of Quran is brought out to perfection in the recitation of ‘sana’ in fazr namaz if properly remdered) Qasida, Naa’t e Rasul (SA) Manqabat – e – Ali (SA) Nasihat etc: In conclusion I have this to say. There is a lot to learn and much to appreciate in our Deen, provided you are willing to learn and understand. In our Faith, the famous mathematicians, physicists and philosophers who expounded on music, but now days one tend to be avowed by …………. (draw your own conclusions)

Article-51 # (SURVIVAL STRATEGIES - NOT USUAL RUN OF THE MILL TYPE)

It’s real downtime folks, so like many companies, specially in the financial and service sectors going bust, the currency of the most popular dictum, on which many made a lot of money ie: ‘WORK HARD – PARTY HARDER’ has also gone bust. Many including yours truly have reverted back to the simpler pleasures of life, one of them being reading of books. After having thumbed through the recent best seller “Dreams from my Father – A story of Race and Inheritance by Barack Obama, gifted by my niece,Zahra an Obama fan, who came visiting from the States, I had to fall back on my small collection of books, to find solace and peace in troubled times. As I read through Linda Goodman’s STAR SIGNS I came across a this interesting poem therein. May be in good times I may have just smirked and moved on, but as these are bad times, I read it again and again and thought - is it possible, can it be used as a survival strategy, many thoughts rankled my brain. I will not elaborate but share with you the beautiful verse and the blessings of the riwayat, which every mumin does know well, which suddenly came to mind, as I tried to rationalize the truth contained in the verse. I leave it entirely upon your discernment and prudence to make a judgment, if at all in these difficult time, it can be used as a survival strategy. Very radical indeed, hope some one has the courage to ‘JUST DO IT ’ ( amusing thought whether NIKE themselves are putting faith in their tag line, during this difficult times) QUOTE: …….. and tonight I’m remembering those bubbly moments of bittersweet when a tapped out stranger stops us on the street to ask you for a dime or a quarter a fellow Earthling, who’s lost his or her way for a while you always smile, then give the lost one five dollars or ten ……. or twenty even when you’re broke and it’s your very last five ……. or ten……. or twenty then, when the Taker looks shocked, as they always do you call back, over your shoulder ‘ listen, if you want any more just give half of that away don’t save it for a rainy day ! rain rhymes with pain …………. give rhymes with live!’ Pray what are your first thoughts, as you finished reading ‘absolute rubbish’ / ‘far fetched’ / or ‘may be there is truth, of which I know not’ As I conveyed earlier, I read it again and again, what made me read it I know not, and I recalled the riwayat of Moulana Ali (SA) heard many a times in va’az. Forgive my narration, as it is always very difficult to convey it in English. The household of Moula Ali (SA) had been without food for three days, so Ma Fatema (SA) pleaded with Aqa Ali to arrange for some money, so that food can be bought. Moulana Ali (SA) secured 1 dinar as karzan from a Jew and while returning, he chanced upon Mikdad bin Aswad, sitting in the heat of the day, on the way. Upon enquiry Moulana Ali came to know that the household of Mikdad had been without food, for past four days, and Mikdad was at his wit’s end, as to how to arrange for some money. Moulana Ali told Mikdad of his own personal plight and said he has just secured 1 dinar as karzan and was returning home. But Moulana Ali did what only Moulana Ali could only do. He gave Mikdad 1 dinar saying, go Mikdad, buy food and satiate the hunger of your family, who are without food for 4 days at a stretch ALLAHO AKBAR!!!

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So giving Mikdad 1 dinar Moulana Ali slowly made his way towards his home, where Ma Fatema (SA) and Imam Hasan (SA) and Imam Husain (SA) .were eagerly awaiting his return. Here I would like to make a very important observation. Moulana Ali could have easily told Mikdad, that see I have borrowed 1 dinar from that particular Jew, go to him, and borrow one dinar your self. HE SIMPLY GAVE HIS ONE DINAR AWAY!! As Moulana Ali (SA) was making his way back home, he chanced upon Muhammad (SA) who said, that he intended to partake food with Ahle Bait (SA). Moulana Ali immediately offered the invitation, and both of them hurried towards home. Every mumin knows this riwayat so very well. What happened when he returned - Ma Fatema (SA) in sujood, and lo and behold the m’aedat from heaven - the look of utter bewilderment and a hint of suspicion in the eyes of Moulana Ali (SA) as he looked at Ma Fatema, and finally Muhammad (SA) telling Moulana Ali (SA) that it was only because of his giving 1 dinar away to Mikdad!!! So friends, no one on earth can do what Moulana Ali (SA) could do, but we can all learn a lesson, in this difficult time to reach put to those of our fellow brothers, who are in need of our support and understanding. REACH OUT with your funds, your knowledge, your zeal to serve, the least you can do is to provide a willing ear and proffer some advice and solace. Let us not merely think of our own self and family , not be mean and narrow minded. Let us have a broad vision and lofty goal. Not to hoard wealth – investing it with the sole purpose of having to avoid sharing it with others. If from this down turn, we have not learnt a lesson, when will we ever learn? On daily basis we are seeing the stories of investments going down the drain, the high and mighty of the financial world, looked upon as demy gods, biting dust. Those that have received accolades and awards, turning out to be plain and simple cheat.

Article-52 # (NAJWA E A'ANSOO)

Saughat- e -a’ansoo leke aya hoon aza’ ki majlis me yehi hadiyah- e- azadari hai meray MOULA ki pasand ( this is the extempore composition by my artist friend Bhai Noorudin Amarjee conveyed over phone, as I told him of Aqa Moula’s reception bayan mubarak, and my intention to write on the subject) On hearing Aqa Moula’s bayan at the Mombasa airport (courtesy DB Net) I started reflecting on the bayan wherein Aqa Moula, at the very start, brought into focus, his aspirations and purpose, by stating ‘ su najwa arz karso – tamara a’ansoo na najwa ne lewa ayo chhu…..’ This address was not confined to the mumineen of Mombasa and all those who have been blessed to be with Aqa Moula (TUS) in the Burhani Masjid and its precincts, but mumineen worldwide. So every mumineen in all earnest should, at first become aware of what Aqa Moula (TUS) is requiring of them during this Muharram, what will make him please and earn his satisfaction and blessings. Once you become aware and focused, as to what is expected of you by your Moula this A’shara, whether you are blessed to sit at his feet in Mombasa, or you are sitting in a very small congregation in Modasa (Gujrat) it does not matter, unless you are able to weep profusely on the Martyerdom of Imam Husain (S.A.) on the burning plains of Karbala. I agree it is easy said than done, no sermonizing here, one has to be practical. First step is becoming aware of what is required of you, next your personal assessment of yourself. Human beings are all different, there are people who can shed tears easily, yet there are others who find it difficult to cry. I have observed many

http://mindmints.blogspot.com/2008/12/najwa-e-aasoo.html

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blessed mumineen, who at the mere sight of Aqa Moula tend to shed a lot of tears, others are equally emotional and moved, but tears do not come that easily, and there is a scientific explanation to it. ( to get my point straight, I will confide to you about my sister, who has grown up children of her own and stays in Pune. Now whenever, she comes to see me off at the station, I fail to understand, but as the train leaves the platform, she starts crying !!!) It is for this reason, that Aqa Moula says, that ‘rovu na aavtu hoi, to Nazrul Mukam mano, mane yaad karo, maro chehro tamarni nazar samne rakho…’ So the first step is precisely do that. Once you are focused, the next step is ‘m’arefat’ for whom, you are shedding your tears, and why are you shedding year after year. I will just state one of the many reason, as often said by Aqa Moula (TUS) ‘ mumineen tame mara Moula Imam Husain na matam ane rova matej paiyda thaya cho, tamara paiydais no maqsad Imam Husain par a’aho jari karvoo che’ ( Note: these are not the exact words, but the spirit of the bayan mubarak is conveyed) Syedna Mohammad Burhanuddin Moula in his munajaat has beautifully articulated the sentiment of, forever remembering Husain (s.a.) in the following words: WA AZKURU MOULAYAL HUSAINA DAA LANA, BE SAJDATEHE INDASH SHAHADATAY SAEELA (I always remember Moula Husain (s.a.) who during his shahadat remembered us in his Doa) So it becomes obligatory and part of living faith for a mumin to shed a’asoo and do matam. During the bayan at the airport Aqa Moula recited the verse from Ya Sayedas Shohadaee - fizi aya nafse fizi... So once you become aware and focused, the next step is m’arefat and Muqaadas Moula Syedna Taher Saifuddin (RA) helps us in doing so, in the following verse: AZHAL HUSAINU YUNADI, BAEENA JUMOIL AADI, INNIBNU TAHA WA SAADEE, MUNZO SALASEEN SADEE, ATLOOBU SHURBATA MAEE, WALAHFATA YA HUSAINA, YA SAYEDASH SHOHADEE. (On the day of Ashaura before Shahadat, Husain (s.a.) performed the duty of Hujjat with enemies and asked. Don’t you know I am the son of that Nabi (s.a.) whom Quran has addressed as Tahaa and Suaad? I am thirsty since last three days. I only ask of you just one sip of water. O Husain our grief upon you, O leader of the Shohada) Believe me my young friends, when ever I recite the above verse, I am over whelmed by a surge of emotions, and tears flow as the entire scene of helplessness of an exalted Imam unfolds. In an instant my mind recalls all those rightful people, who in order to uphold the truth, have suffered at the hands of tyrants. I recall Moulai Raj walking in the mohallas of Ahmedabad in ‘fakiri libas’ to save the souls from going astray, I recall Moulai Hasanfir, who because of his knowledge and piety, earned the enmity of the courtiers and was martyred. Spirituality suffered, knowledge was trampled by worldly and naïve people wielding position and power. It is important to connect your thoughts and feelings. At times recalling your meanness, your turning away a needy mumin bhai, wrongful use of your power and position to hurt a fellow human etc: in short recalling your sins and wrong doings and repenting, as you do matam, releases emotions and a torrent of tears. Just try it out this Muharram. One is bound to shed tears on reciting the following verse, as to what the enemy did. LAM YASMAU MINHU QAWLA, WAIZ SHAQU MA SAQAWLA, BAL QATALU MINHU MAWLA, AAMAL BARAYA TAWLAN, ALA ASHADDE ZAMAEE, WALAHFATA YA HUSAINA, YA SYEDASH SHOHADAEE. (Enemies did not listen to his call, due to cruelty and enmity none of them gave water, but they killed him in the extreme of the thirst, one whose ahsaan covered the whole Universe. My unlimited sorrow and grief upon you, O leader of the Shohada.) ( Excerpts taken from my article entitled THE TRAGEDY OF KARBALA IN THE CONTEXT OF MARASIYA YA SYEDASH SHODAEE) www.hikmaah.com

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Thus, I have tried to share with you my reflections and thoughts on the subject, and Allah willing I hope many will surely benefit. I have also been reading on the subject of crying and the experiments being carried out at St: Paul Ramsey Medical Centre in Minnesota. Emotional tears are the response which only humans have, for only humans can weep. Ashley Montagu concluded that, weeping contributes not only to the health of the individual, but also to the group in a sense of community and that it tends to deepen involvement in the welfare of others. Tears are secreted by our lachrymals – tiny sponge like glands, which rest above the eye against the eye socket. It physical benefit is that it lubricates the eyeballs and eyelids. In experiments, it has been found that emotional tears after watching a sad movie, helped in the excretory process, which removes toxic substances that normally build up during emotional stress. However, it was not the case with tears that flowed on account of cutting onions. Tears serve as an evolutionary survival function. Crying is therapeutic, tears help us heal and are valuable aid to restoring inner calmness and peace. Book Refrence: William Frey :Crying –the Mystery of Tears Gregg Levoy : Tears that Speak – Psychology Today Ashley Montagu : The Evolution of Weeping- Science Digest I have merely mentioned the above to make the readers aware of the importance that the scientific community is giving to the study. However, we mumineen are not so mindful and concerned with the benefits that we receive at personal level, but are main concern and purpose is to earn the ‘khusi’ of our beloved Aqa Moula, and we know for sure what barakat and bounties we are to be blessed with in ‘akherat’ for shedding a’ansoo on Imam Husain (SA) I conclude with the doa – ‘baqi rahe Burhanuddin az-hurmat-e-a’ansoo’ Ameen. NEW HIJRI YEAR 1430 MUBARAK AND MOHANNA TO ALL. ILTEMAS UL DOA DURING THE DAYS OF A’SHARA AND SPECIALLY ON THE DAY OF A’SHURA.

Article-53 # (FAKHR - PRIDE)

We are in the midst of celebrating the 98th Milad Mubarak of our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) and are carrying with us the visions and dream of celebrating his 100th Milad Mubarak Insa Allah. I have been giving a serious thought on the subject of ‘Fakhr’ (Pride) which is the main theme of this year’s Ayyamul Ta’budaat. Let me share with you all, my thoughts on the subject. Pride resulting out of material possessions, I need not elaborate here, is haughtiness, a negative and self destructive trait. Fakhr emanating out of things spiritual and non-tangible, adds luster and releases positive energies for the development of the mind, soul and body. Fakhr is conducive to mental health. When we have self confidence and self respect, we thrive. Ask any expert on behavioral science, and they will agree, that it is so. No doubts here. Now the question – How best to inculcate this positive Fakhr ? – as humans we are attuned and attached to all things material. Aqa Moula’s Kalema’t Nooraniyah, surely shows us the way: ‘Ay mara pyara farzando ! Tamne koyee chiz nu fakhr hoyee to’ Imam Husain na matam ane buka nu fakhr hoyee.

http://mindmints.blogspot.com/2009/03/fakhr-pride.html

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Koi beezee duniya ni chiz nu nahi. Ay mara pyara farzando ! Imam Husain ni shadaat tamne parhi ne sunawoo, yeh mara vaste fakhr, ane ehna si mari sehat and badan ma quwwat. Haqiqi fakhr su ? Ke A’al – e- Mohammad ane yeh sagla na doaato ni gulami. Yeh haqiqi fakhr ! So here we have it. In one of his earlier bayan mubarak Aqa Moula (TUS) said: ‘ je waqt mumin Abde Syedna likhe che, to’ ehne fakhr mehsoos thai che, ke mari nisbat mara Moula si chhe’ In order to understand, appreciate and finally inculcate the positive Fakhr in our daily lives, the historical incidents from the pages of our glorious Akhbar , albeit only a few have been taken by me, there are countless, but my knowledge is limited, I hope others will also share their knowledge. The purpose is to have an insight on the subject. In many cases I will be just giving the thread of narration, and not the details, as every one surely knows all the riwayats, which I hope to refer, just the points, during this Ayyamul Ta’budaat. This being by first post on the subject. Your comments will provide me with guidance and motivation, for which I will be ever grateful. FAKHR of Ibrahim Nabi on the WILL of ALLAH - Everyone knows the riwayat of Ibrahim Nabi (SA) when he was about to be thrown in fire – Jibraeel was bewildered at the reply Ibrahim (SA) gave that I seek nothing from Allah – what happened – ‘kulna ya naar kooni bardan va salama’ – Ibrahim (SA) said to Jibraeel - I felt ashamed to seek deliverance when Khuda ni hiqmat was that I should be martyred. The Fakhr was in accepting what was willed. A lesson to be learnt. FAKHR of Musa Nabi on the FATIH IN ALLAH - He goes to the court of the mighty and most powerful Firaun with his vasi Haroon, both carrying nothing with them, but the walking stick. Every one knows how he managed to subdue and baffle the haughty Firaun and his courtiers. For Musa Nabi (SA) the Fakhr was in reposing full FAITH IN ALLAH. We mumineen by reposing full faith in our Aqa Moula (TUS) can overcome seemingly difficult obstacles. To be continued …………..

Article-54 # (FAKHR - Pride (post 2))

FAKHR of Nabi Mohammad (SA) in THE MESSAGE OF ALLAH. Mohammad (SA) was the personification of noble traits. ‘innaka la’lla kholoqin azeem’ ‘He attained the height of eminence by his perfection He dispelled the darkness (of the World) by his grace.’ (balagal o’la be kamalehi…)Such was the noble character of our Nabi (SA) He suffered with fortitude and courage the ignoble acts and persecution of the Quraish -taunts, ridicules, throwing of camels entails on his person, while he prayed at Kabah. The Quraish went to extremes. Muhammad (SA) did not waver a bit, when it came to delivering the Message of Allah. Fakhr in his being the Messenger of Allah was paramount. Here I am relating a historical incidence, which will help readers in understanding and inculcating Fakhr in our belief system and faith, which we hold dear. No compromises in this matter if we inculcate Fakhr. So in this post, I am narrating the incident in detail, how Muhammad (SA) spurned the enticement of the Quraish and his reply to Moulana Abu Talib (SA). The Quraish came to Muhammad (SA) with temptations of worldly honor and wealth, to entice him from spreading his Message. One day Utbah son of Rabi’ah approached him and said “ O son of my brother, thou are distinguished by the qualities and descent. We have a proposition to make to thee, think well. When Muhammad (SA) said: ‘ Speak Abul – Walid, I am listening’

http://mindmints.blogspot.com/2009/03/fakhr-pride-post-2.html

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He said, “O nephew! If you are doing all this with the view of getting wealth, we will join together to give you greater riches than any Quraishite possessed. If ambition moves you, we will make you are chief ………” When Utbah had finished laying before Muhamad (SA) all the worldly enticement, Nabi (SA) recited the verses from Surah Fussilat (41) and Utbah was mesmerized and went back to his people saying Muhammad (SA) is attached to his Message of Allah and cares not for the worldly riches and positions. He advised that he be given full freedom to pursue his goals. But his counsel fell on deaf years. Several Quraish deputations were made to Moulana Abu Talib (SA) requesting him to stop his nephew from preaching against their religion of idol worship. The Fakhr of Nabi (SA) in the Message of Allah was so very profound, that he said to his dear uncle Moula Abu Talib (SA) “O my uncle! By Allah if they put the sun in my right hand and the moon in my left, that I abandon this course, I would not abandon it until Allah has made me victorious or I perish therein” So this is real Fakhr that our Aqa Moula (TUS) is alluding to in this 98th Milad Mubarak – Ayyamul Ta’budaat. When it comes to matter of Faith and belief system, we should rise up and proclaim, that I can be humble, patient, understanding, accommodating, you may at times misunderstand me as weak, but I AM NOT UP FOR SALE in matter of my Faith, and my Deen. My Fakhr will not brook any short cuts and compromises. It is time of introspection friends, look inward , and make a self assessment. It is empowerment, the concept widely taught in all Business Schools and very current in Business Lectures around the world. Here I would like to recall the bayan mubarak of Aqa Moula (TUS) when he said - ‘Mumineen, tamne koi gareeb samjhi ne ijan ape to na jajo, hargij na jajo’ This is empowerment of the financially weak, the instilling of Fakhr being a mumin, although not well off financially. However, there is a subtle difference. If you have Pride (haughtiness) then empowerment denotes controlling others. On the other hand Fakhr denotes, taking charge of your life, a more profound aspect of self development. Let us inculcate this Fakhr in our daily lives. In the next post I hope to write on Fakhr in ubudiyat. Insah Allah. Moulana Ali (SA) the perfect embodiment of this noble trait, comes to mind readily.

Article-55 # (Fakhr in ubudiy'at - Part 1)

The genesis of this most noblest of ‘ husn ul khulq’, an integral part of our Deen and the emancipation of our souls, is reflected in all its glory, in the life of Moulana Ali (SA) He was fakhr in ubudiy’at personified, he set an example to be followed by the never ending chain of Imams (SA) Doat Mutlaqeen and Awalia ul Kiram, who by example have tried to inculcate this virtue in mumineen through out the ages, for their emancipation. Ubudiy’at is the surest way and as Syedi Sadikali Saheb has said : ‘ Sadiqali ehva Moula na ni ubudiyat, ma humami che paar hayua thava khatir ehni haqiqi gulami che ‘ (humami refers to becoming leaders of men – kingship) Before proceeding further, I would like to share my views, especially with my young friends, who may be wondering at the paradoxes. Yes indeed – fakhr in ubudiy’at and ‘gulami ma humami’ are paradoxes.

http://mindmints.blogspot.com/2009/03/fakhr-in-ubudiyat-part-1.html

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A paradox is a seemingly contradictory statement that is none the less true. Like most paradoxes in life, ubudiyaat ma fakhr and humami have to be experienced, as it is born out of true love, it is more a ‘soul thing’ than a ‘mind thing’ First and fore most you have to connect with your Moula. Only those who are capable to experiencing unselfish love, pure love, love that does not seek, but only gives - a soul in perpetual ‘shukr’ will find joy, peace and salvation in ‘ubudiy’at’ Those attached to the material world, will find it difficult to understand. Only when the material gross is removed, will the radiance of ubudiy’at, enrich their lives, and a true understanding will dawn. So first is the connection with Moula, and thereafter unbound love for him, are the first steps. Once that spiritual bond is established, things will become real easy, and ubudiy’at will radiate through and through in all actions. Even though ‘humami’ is not the seekers goal, may be himself, in his own life time, or his progeny will surely be rewarded. Our glorious Fatemi history is resplendent with this fact, and I hope to narrate, a few in this very post. The personality of Moula Ali (SA) inspires awe and reverence even in a small child, whose knowledge is limited. His bravery in Badr, Ohad, Khandaq, Khyber and all military expeditions, is well known. His knowledge of all that his contained in this World and Akherat are also ashkaar. I will just touching on the points, as every one is well aware of the riwaya’ts. He proclaimed: ‘haza Kitabullah il sa’mit, wa ana Kitabullah il – natiq’ before I depart from this world, ask me of any thing that is contained in this World and Akherat. In both I’lm and A’mal he was a zenith, a lighthouse that showed the way and dispelled darkness. Now I will narrate just one incident from his glorious life, on the subject of ubudiy’at. Once when Muhammad (SA) accompanied by his ashaab were traveling, the sandals of Nabi (SA) broke and needed immediate mending. It was Moulana Ali (SA) who immediately sought raza to mend it. As Nabi (SA) sat down with his ashaab, Moulana Ali walked a little distance and sat down to mend the sandals. Nabi (SA) saw a fit opportunity to proclaim the exalted position of Moulana Ali (SA) and said : ‘tamara logo ma kitnak ehva che je ta’wil par jang karsejim mein tanzil par kidhi.’ Barely he finished uttering these profound words, that Haughty No 1 got up, and said - ‘a’na ya Rasulallah ?’ Aqa Moula ek bayan ma farmayu ke – ‘a’ne jhallo ghano !’ He went back to his place and Hughty No 2 got up, to ask the same question, to be given the same reply, and he was followed by Hughty No: 3 who was also, shown his place . Moulana Ali (SA) the veteran of many hard fought battles, the Kauser of I’lm e ladduni, was far removed, engrossed in mending the sandals of his Moula (here just juxtapose your individual achievements and your ubudiya’t with that of Moulana Ali (SA) and you will understand the real greatness of Moula ali (SA) and his ubudiyaat – to feel inadequate and so very small, like a sand speck is one of the first steps) Nabi (SA) proclaimed pointing in the direction of Moulana Ali (SA) – ‘ wala kinnahu khase-ul naal’ It he who is mending my sandals !!! I will now narrate just a few, there are innumerable in the glorious annals of our Fatemi History, but just a few, on how, the ubudiyaat exemplified in the life and actions of Moulana Ali (SA) was reflected in the lives of Doatul Mutlaqeen and Awaliya kiram sahebs. I will just be making references, as the point is to prove the paradoxes, under discussion, and the truth contained therein.

Article-56 # (THEY ALSO WALKED!!)

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The health concerns of our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) during Ayya'mul Ta'budaat, stirred the passions of mumineen, world wide. The immense love and reverence found an expression, in mumineen, young and old alike, from all walks of life, undertaking long walks, from their towns and cities to distant maza'r mubaraks. In countries like USA and even in parts of India, they walked from markaz to Masjid, in other cities from devri mubaak to Masjid. The 98th Milad mubarak will be remembered in the annals of Fatemi History, for this unique outpouring of love and affection. The walks undertaken, are all well documented. I need not go into details. DB Net, Malumaat, Planet Bohra, ZenInfosys etc: have covered them with photographs. My blog is primarily for reflection - taffakur. The question is - what have they achieved? By walking for a very noble and spiritual cause - shifa e kulli of Aqa Moula (TUS), they have in so doing, attached themselves - 'lahik thavu' with the pious actions of our Imams (SA), Doat and Awaliya kirams. This to my mind, is a singular achievement, one to die for. Moula 'si lahik thavu, yeh sagla na amal thi amal karta thavu' - attachment, is a sure sign of emancipation, of real freedom. I will just narrate a few of the 'walks' that come readily to mind.

Imam Hasan (SA) did 25 Haj on foot, walking through the desert from Medinah to Mecca, accompanied by a large retinue. Each year we hear, how Ziad dinil Aswad came in the hazrat of Imam Jafar us Sadik (SA) to do kadambosi, all tattered and bruised, and seeing him tears, swelled in the eyes of Imam (SA) and he uttered the famous kalema'at - ' haliddin o illal hoob' Syedi Kazikhan bin Ali (Sidhpur) had walked all the way on foot from Rampura to Ahmedabad. He took the journey walking behind the bullock cart, that was carrying Dai ul Mutlaq !! Miaji Tajsaheb (Umreth) each year on the day of Ghadir e Khum, use to walk it from Umreth to Ahmedabad in the hazrat of Dai ul Mutlaq, to give misaq ! Our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) had climbed the arduous mountain terrains on foot, in many of his ziyarat trips to Yemen In recent memory the young Yemini girl who ran all the way, down the mountain, behind the car of our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) panting and breathless. When ushered in the presence of Aqa Moula (TUS) just to say ' inni wallaho ohibboka ya Mavlaya' which went on to become the most iconic statement, through out the mumineen world. I was fortunate to meet this Yemini girl,and heard her sonorous recital of Marsiya and Madeh in the durbar of Syedna Hatim Mohiyuddin Saheb (RA) Mubarakbadi to all those, who out of pure love and affection for our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) under took long walks to mazar mubarak, spread far and wide.

Article-57 # (HERE WE COME - O MOULA!!)

With the ni’yat of shifa e kulli and umre darazi - ta – kiyamat of our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) mumineen of Kolkata (Calcutta) along with the family of Janab Amil Saheb Yunusbhai Saheb Zainuddin (DS) numbering 337 including children aged 1-2 years also, undertook a memorable train journey on 22nd April ’09. The special train comprising of 7 - 3 tier ordinary coaches attached with a pantry car, left Howrah Station at midnight Wednesday, and each coach displayed the specially prepared name charts of mumimeen. After traveling in the sweltering heat of central India crossing the States of Bihar, Jharkahand, Orissa, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, we finally reached Burhanpur at around 10.15 am Friday. We traveled in the hottest spell in Met History, as reported in News Papers. Our city has been simmering since April 18th

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with mercury crossing 40 degrees, on all days and discomfort index of 64 degrees. The train journey took us through the sweeping hot dry spell of North and Central India. On the day we left, there was a news report that 5 persons died on account of heat wave in and around Nagpur. Did all these unnerving reports deter us from traveling in non air conditioned train ? The figures speak for themselves. It was decided that the train journey will be feasible, if 300 persons opted to travel, and here we were 337 bracing the heat and the long journey, with chances of frequent en route delays ( eg: The travel time from Bhusaval to Burhanpur is under 1 hr and it took us more than 4 hrs on account of signal clearances ) On the lighter side of the train journey - the outside heat was pumped right inside our coach S1 as a heated debate between the ladies and gents ensued on the motion 'bazaar ni theli mardo ne nahi pan bayro ne sobhe !!’ In spite of our having a very articulate and knowledgeable Bhai Mudar on our side, the ladies vociferously defeated the motion, as I sulked at the thought, of having to continue to carry the bazaar thela till eternity!! Another debate on the motion that - ‘ Islamic ladies of yore were more progressive and confident of themselves, as they allowed their husbands to have more than one wife, as per the shariat laws’ also was defeated. In exasperation I managed to salvage some gents pride by repeating loudly the kalema’at nooraniyah of Aqa Moula (TUS) ‘ bayro ma vakas hoi cheh ! But to no avail, we had to accept defeat, much to my own relief, as I know how difficult it is to manage one in these depressing times!!! Here I would like to make a special mention of Mulla Shabbirbhai Deesawala, whose kidney problem requires twice weekly dialysis. He was on the train with us and was in charge of setting up the special menu and cooking supervision. He has been serving the community for decades, and the unbound love and affection of our Moula (TUS) and faith borne out of conviction, that nothing untoward will happen, made him undertake the journey. Special arrangement were made for his dialysis at Saifee Hospital when we were in Mumbai for a day. He returned with us, and believe me, he was looking more robust and energetic, when he alighted out of the train, carrying a box of Alphanso, as compared to myself, looking all tired and haggard !! I salute you Sir !!! You are an example and an inspiration. At Burhanpur we were served breakfast immediately on arrival, and allotted comfortable rooms. Calcutta mumineen hosted the Darees, there after we went for ziyarat, followed by Zohar/Asr namaz, mata’m majlis, salavat zaman and finally afternoon siesta. At 5.30 in the evening we again assembled in roza mubaraka sehan, and majlis, salaam, marsiya and madeh recitation culminated in purjosh Mata’m, followed by ziyarat and Magrib/Isha namaz. After partaking salavat jaman we headed to the Station and were on our way to Mumbai in the special train, known as ‘ Bharat Darshan’ It was all excitement and anticipation as we reached Mumbai, as usual, late by 4 hrs than scheduled. The waiting buses took us directly to Rozat Tahera, where we performed ziyarat and purjosh Mata’m, and the waiting buses, took us to Saifee Mahal. In Taheri Masjid under the sadarat of Shz: Huzaifabhai Saheb (DM) Darees recitation was performed. We mumineen were fortunate to have the Darees on 1st of Jama –dil - Awwal, and Shz: Idris Bhai Saheb (DM) Shz: Qusaybhai Saheb (DM) and Mehlam Bhai Saheb (DM) also attended, a singular honor, for mumineen of Calcutta. After Darees we assembled below the gurfa mubaraka all exited and in anticipation, when Shz: Huzaifabhai Saheb (DM) did arz in Hazarat Aliyah Imamiyah on our behalf, and we were blessed with the Doa Mubarak of our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) With heavy hearts of parting and with doa on each and every ones lips that “Moula aapna deedar ni Eid shitabi thai’ we boarded our respective buses. Lunch packets were served

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After ziyarat at Naryalwadi and Sakina bhen Saheba, and tour of the terrorist attacked Taj Hotel,we arrived once again at Rozat Tahera for ziyarat and Magrib /Isha namaz. After salvaat jaman we were back at the Station for our grueling return journey, which took more than 40 hrs. No regrets but Shukr ! Shukr ! Shukr ! all the way. For making it a most memorable journey I am deeply indebted to : Janab Amil Saheb Yunusbhai Saheb Zainuddin (DS) who conceived the idea, motivated and with his raza and doa mubarak, it was made possible. He traveled with his family, and set an example of leadership. Sk: Saifuddin bhai Rangwala who arranged with the Indian Railways, for the train booking. Burhani Volunteers who did a very commendable khidmat, right form the start, when the idea was first mooted. The dedicated band amongst them, spared no efforts, worked selflessly, registering names, motivating mumineen, ticket issue and all arrangements, pertaining to the journey. It was simply because of their effort and zeal, that we mumineen for the first time in the history of Indian Railways, were served meals in the train in ‘ Thals’ ( 40 thals were carried in the train) meals cooked and served ‘our style’ which made a good impression on the Railway officials and staff accompanying us on the train. Zakireen who were traveling and during the journey recited Marasiya, Madeh, Noha, etc: as arrangements were made in each coach for relay. Their recitations, evoked feelings of love and affection for our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) as the train carried us, our feelings, our doa for shifa e kulli and umre darazi - ta - kiyamat of our Moula (TUS) All Mumineen who were fortunae to travel by this special train. NOTE: My young friend and photographer, Bhai Abdulkader. who was with us , is presently filming wild life in Bandavagarh National Park. My next post will carry only photographs and video of the memorable train journey. Insa Allah.

Article-58 # (NOTES ON SPRITUALITY)

22nd Rajab has a significance in our Fatemi tradition, as in many mumineen housholds, we make 'kheer puri' on this day and partake it by reciting salvat on Imam Jafar -us- Sadik (SA) As my wife is busy making 'kheer puri' I thought it most appropriate, to share with my friends some notes on Sprituality, as a befitting tribute to this day. AQL - The human intellect is a microcosmic refelection of the Universal Intellect (Aql Kulli) When man attains proper use of his own intellect, he is able to move from the level of his own individual intellect to swim in the ocean of Universal (macrocosmic)intellect. Through going inward (contemplation - taffakur ) he is conveyed outward to dizzying heights. - From the Article by Irshad Husain. The body is the brute touched to life. The true man is the other, going pure of the body, rationly endowed with virtues, which belong to the Intellectual Activity, the virtue whose seat is a Seperate Soul, the Soul which even in its dwelling here may be kept apart - THIS SOUL CONSTITUTES THE HUMAN BEING - ....... - From ENNEADS – Plotinus SPRITUALITY is the way you find meaning,hope, comfort and inner peace in your life. As the body, mind and spirit are connected, the health of any one of these elements, seems to affect the health and good being of the other. Some meanings of Arabic words we generally hear in Vaaz and bayans.

http://mindmints.blogspot.com/2009/07/notes-on-sprituality.html

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'johad'comes from 'jhd' - primaary meaning is to strive or to exert oneself. Ilm – knowledge hikmaah – wisdom taffakur - reflection al- nafs al mutma'inna (the satisfied soul) al- nafs al lawwama ( the self accusing soul) al - nafs al ammara bi al su' ( the soul that enjoins evil) that which comes under the influence of Shiytan tasawwur - conception

tasdiq - assent

al - burhan - proof

Article-59 # (NOTES ON SPIRITUALITY - PART 2 )

When Alexander was leaving for his world conquest, he went to see Diogenes, a great sage, who was lying on a sandy bank of the river and enjoying the morning sunshine. He asked Alexander : Where are you going and for what ? Alexander : I am going on a world conquest, I will conquer Asia Minor first. Diogenes : And what will you do after conquering Asia Minor ? Alexander : I will then go to conquer India Diogenes : And what then ? Alexander: I will have to conquer the whole world. Diogenes : And what then ? Alexander: Then I will rest and relax. Hearing this Diogenes laughs out loudly, and addressing his dog who is sitting neare by says: "Listen to what this mad king is saying. The man says that he will rest after he conquers the world. Here we are resting right now, without conquering a single place. Alexander dear, if rest is your ultimate objective, why not join me and my dog right now on this beautiful river bank ? There is enough space here for all of us. I am already resting.Why are you bent on creating so much mayhem and blood shed around the world, just to rest at the end of it all ? You can rest right here and now" Dear friends does it ring a bell. Who are we fooling but our own self. Just reflect on what you want to achieve in life. Reflect on the all pervading Spirit, which sleeps in the stone, dreams in the animal and wakes up finally in Man. Try to understand it, reflect upon and sure enough you will find joy, sustenance and ever lasting peace. In order to achieve Spirituality, first comes NIYYAT - resolve, intention Fllowed by : TAUBA – penitence MUJAHDA- probation or striving MUHAZARA - when you feel the light, which is still veiled MUKASHAFA -the veil is lifted and your spirituality radiates through and through ( have used sufi words of attainment to drive the point home) while on the subject of Spirituality, let me recall the childhood game of spoon and lime race, very popular is school Sports Meet. The one who touched the tape first with lime firmly placed in the spoon won. In real life though we find that people are running blindly at times, focused on reaching first with the spoon firmly in their mouth,( all worldly materialistic possessions ) but wen they touch the tape, they find that in their blind dash, some where down the road, they have dropped the lime. Friends those who touch the tape, even if they come second or third or tenth for that matter, but with their lime firmly in their spoon, are the winners of this life's race.

http://mindmints.blogspot.com/2009/07/notes-on-spirituality-part-2.html

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On the Day of Judgement everyone will be gathered together in HIS RADIANT PRESENCE, the rankings will melt, those with lime in their spoon will be considered, and those who ran blindly only with spoon firmly in their mouth and without the lime will for ever regret. The lime constitutes VALAYAT of AQA MOULA (TUS) all noble deeds as enshrined in our Deen. Reaching out to your relatives and community members in need. I need not elaborate. In your mad rush to touch the finishing line of life, and to come out winner, please be focused on 'the lime' that may have fallen down. Pick it up and you will be the ultimate winner.

Article-60 # (NOTES ON SPIRITUALITY - Part 3 )

This post is dedicated to Bhai Shabbir Poonawla, who commented on my earlier post and urged me 'to keep writing'. It is the Greek Philosopher Diogenes again friends. When one surrenders on its own to the Supreme Power -to the Will of Allah in the larger context, to our Moula (TUS)in the micro context, his Spirituality, will achieve the ultimate flowering, because in this willing surrender is the ultimate salvation. If someone forcibly turns you into a means and uses you, you are bound to loose your soul. However, your soul will be fulfilled, if you surrender on your own, and become an instrument in the hands of existence. The Greek sage Diognes, was once captured by a group of petty traders to enslave him. The traders are baffled when Diognes himself voluteers to be handcuffed. As they take him to the slave market to be sold, he proudly walks ahead of all of them. There is not a trace of fear on his face, while his captors look like captives. Diogenes mounts on the platform and proclaims : ' What are you looking for ? They are all my slaves, and although they are not in chains yet, they cannot run away from me. HERE IS A MASTER FOR SALE - whosoever can afford a master should bid for him' There are many savants who on account of their wisdom and spirituality have lived a fearless life, because they have willingly surrendered themsleves to the Will of Allah. Our Fatemi history is enriched with many such incidents of true heroism, the one that readily comes to mind as I write is that of Syedna Kutbuddin Saheed (AQ) He was chained and bound in the durbar of Auranzeb, but by his fearless utterance of Truth, he made all of them look like minions. ' Shere Khuda na sher woh garraya aa kadr..... ' Nashihat of Syedi Sadik Ali Saheb It was the radiant Spirituality and surrender to the Will of Allah that enslaved Auranzeb, sitting on the throne, and although tied and bowed down in chains, Moulana Kutbuddin Saheed (RA) towered over every one. This is the power of Spirituality and Wisdom. The sheer joy when individual consciousness merges with the Divine Consciousness, it is difficult to say wether the drop merged into the ocean or the ocean merged into the drop. When this happens, you begin to start seeing miracles. We are all so fortunate to be a witness to the living miracle - our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) who in spite of advancing age, health concerns arrived at 9.40 am to deliver Vaaz at Saifee Masjid in pouring rain on Urs day, and was amongst his beloved mumineen till 2.45 pm. Friends try to inculcate Spirituality in your daily lives, and feel true ecstacy and joy, that the material world will never be able to offer. The sheer joy of crossing a busy road in pouring rain, with umbrella flying and being drenched, but being in time for the Magrib farz, the sujood of shukr followed thereafter for having 'made it'is just one example of daily working

http://mindmints.blogspot.com/2009/07/notes-on-spirituality-part-3.html

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Spirituality. Reaching out to the needy fellow mumineen, in what ever way possible etc: there are numerous ways and means of enriching yourself by enriching the lives of others. Become Spiritual to become Free.

Article-61 # (NASHIHAT OF SYEDI SADIKALI SAHEB)

Last Sehrullah I had written a blog on 'Out on the shopping spree' and those of you who have cared to read it, may have found out that I was not writing about Mall hopping and splurge on goodies, but on things more relevant, more spiritual. I am sharing with you an article I had written earlier and is posted on my home page www.hikmaah.com. I think a most appropriate way to begin the countdown on Sehrullah. The name of Syedi Sadikali Saheb is synonymous with nashihat, and here I am trying to bring into focus the beauty of it, and trying to propagate the nuance of his works. A humble attempt, so that the youngsters can be motivated to read and reflect on his works. In our majlis the nashihats of Syedi Sadikali Saheb are rendered frequently. The compilation of nashihat has been published in the year 1399 H . Syedi Sadikali Saheb has in all written 53 nashihats, one the 54th is an incomplete work. His works have been written during the asre maimoon of three Doat e kirams (RA) 2 Nashihats during asre maimoon of Syedna Yusuf Nazmuddin saheb (R.A.) 42 nashihats during the asre maimoon of Syedna Abdo Ali Saifuddin saheb (R.A.) 9 nashihats during the asre maimoon of Syedna Mohammad Izziduin saheb(RA) Syedi Sadikali Saheb has left behind for posterity, the ever radiating, soul sustaining, akhlaq enhancing, tafadi and ikhlas infused work. His kabre mubarak is in Begumwadi- Surat, and whenever I happen to be there, I make it a point to do ziyarat and recite aloud a few verses. Each of Syedi Sadikali Saheb’s nashihat ends beautifully with verse infused with the valayat of the Dai -uz –Zaman. In this Burhai Daur each stanza of tafadi and outpouring of ikhlas refers to our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) I share with you all my reflections on a few of them. Hope my ‘write up’ will encourage you all to recite and reflect more frequently. In the second last stanza of the very first nasihat ‘seekhaman man eh dildar dana - khule tari saadat na khazana’ beginning with ‘e Najmedeen sikandar na e saani …………. He is seeking Moula’s ‘nazar’ – why is he seeking because he is doing ‘jafeshani’ – gulami ma kare che jafeshani - So your efforts should be there not merely your Moula’s ‘mehrbani’ – I should also deliver, there is something expected from me, I should play my part. See the beauty of the words - ‘saram ehni che tamne roze-mehsar’ I have done ‘jafeshani’ I have done valayat with a thankful heart, and now for my human shortcomings and failures, every human has his baggage, no man is perfect. Moula I am confident that on the Day of Judgement on Roze Mehsar you will surely do my ‘shafa’at’ because you will not like me to wallow on that day in shame. ‘ane har daur ne har kor under’ Now we all know the meaning of daur – an era, but what is ‘kor’ – so if you do not read you do not know, if you do not seek you do not get, as simple as that. In order to acquire knowledge you have to go to the right source, and it is Aqa Moula’s karam and ehsanats that in each city he has deputized his Amil and given him raza to dispense

http://mindmints.blogspot.com/2009/08/nashihat-of-syedi-sadikali-saheb.html

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knowledge to the true seeker. You have to attend ‘sabaks’ to know the meaning of the word ‘kor’ and take it from me, for I know what little I know that the meaning is baffling. Similarly the comparison of the exalted status of Moula to Aashir Mudabbir is purlutf haqeeqat. So my humble request to my young friends to make ‘niyat’ to attend sabaks to get blessed with the radiance of Fatemi uloom and ‘a’daab’ so that in the words of Syedi Sadikali Saheb in his very first Nashihat I request the youngsters Sikhaman maan eh dildar dana Khule tari saadat na khazana. In his second Nashihat Syedi Sadikali Saheb refers to Syedna Yusuf Najmuddin Moula (R.A.) as a garden of Jannat and in truth the sweet drink of hauze Kauser, his status is exalted as the sky and in mercy he is like an ocean. He beseeches his Moula to unburden him from the miseries of sins by his shafa’at because of his exalted position in the eyes of his Lord. The last stanza of the third Nashihat beautifully alludes to the personality of Syedna Abdoali Saifuddin Moula (TUS) . He states that who can narrate the fine traits of the beloved of Aai Ratan (Busaheba) who is in fact a ‘farishta’ of the Realm on High who has taken the bodily attire. He is like a pearl of the ‘tasabih’ alluding to the everlasting and continues ‘silsila’, and the body is merely an oyster holding that everlasting and radiating pearl. His radiance is such, it outshines the radiance of the sun.. Syedi Sadikali Saheb alludes to himself and declares that in the khidmat of such a Moula is in fact our sovereignty. His gulami is our stead to cross over to jannat, overcome the obstacles of this existence The last of the 4th Nashihat begins with the words – ‘eh kul doato na khan na nilam The Dai e hazir is compared as the most precious stone, and our prayers are answered because of his presence. Syedi Sadikali Saheb alludes to the riwayat of Nabi (S.A.) on his last Haj pilgrimage when he faced East and called his Doat ‘aleyka Ikhwani’ my brothers. Yusuf Nabi’s brother, is how he compares Syedna Abdoali Moula and goes on to say that he is the Brave (Rustam) of Ale Nabi and the Death knell for the wrong doers, the munafekeens. At the same time Dai is a source of succor for the true believers who have fallen on hard times and very kind and merciful. Syedi Sadikali Saheb ends by saying that may his khidmat be accepted by one who is the sword – ‘saif ‘ of Ahlul bai’t. The 5th Nashihat ends with the verse stating that you have taken the bodily attire to set an example and by your actions, you have overcome the baser bodily elements. Abdoali Moula (RA) was in his youth when he ascended the exalted position of Dai ul Mutlaq. Here Syedi Sadikali Saheb alluding to his youth, says that the farishtas seeing his noble qualities, are saying that he has attained buzurgi. The general multitude seeing your excellent qualities, say that you are the ‘Khuda’ of this earth. Comparing the torrents of blessings being showered by Dai to rain bearing clouds, he states that the clouds pale in comparison to his ‘faiz’ and goes a step further to proclaim that even the 7 seas pale in comparison. Sadik Ali saheb proclaims his ‘ududiyat’ by stating that by offering sujood after sujood We mumineen are fortunate to be in this glorious Burhani Daur and the words of Syedi Sadikali Saheb are ringing true in the personality of our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) We offer sujood after sujood in Hazrat Aliyah Imamiyah. Hope my reflections will motivate youngsters to reflect more and more on the treasure trove of knowledge contained in the nashihat of Syedi Sadikali Saheb.

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May Allah grant our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) sehato-a’fiyat-ta-kiymat. Ameen.

Article-62 # (ELEGANT RIDA AND PROFILE OF AN ELEGANT MUMINA)

Sharing an inspiring post written by a very elegant and educated mumina bhen - Rashida Mulla Aliasgar Rasheed. Her niyat is that her post may motivate young ladies of our community, who are still undecided and have some reservations, or affected by outside peer pressures, at workplace, social circles or educational institutes or whatever. During these days of Tabuda’at I would like to take this opportunity of Ibadat and Tasbih by performing the Ziker and Shukur of My Maula (tus) who has given me the sharaf of being called a Mumina. When someone speaks of a Mumina, an instant image of a modest, humble woman comes to mind. What separates this humble, modest woman from other women? “Rida”. On the entrance essay for admission to the University of CA, Davis I had written that if one were to take an arial picture of the students in my school, I would definitely stand out. Where I lived with my family – Lodi, California there were only a few mumineen families nearby, and definitely I was the only mumina teenager in my school, and obviously the only one wearing Rida. From my student life to my experiences in the professional world, I have always gotten a second look – from the look of astonishment to the look of admiration. In middle school, the beginning days of my wearing a Rida many times included stares and taunts from other teenagers. As any teenager in the US can attest to, the middle school years are the years where one craves acceptance or being able to “fit in” From job interviews to my foray into the teaching world, there have been many instances that I have felt I have had to go the “extra mile” to prove myself. During interviews, I have been subtly asked if the clothes (Rida) I was wearing during the interview would be the clothes I would be wearing while teaching. In my first teaching assignment in Hayward, CA I had two assistant teachers working for me. When I walked in on my first day, they gave me an incredulous stare – as if I was at the wrong place. During my first few weeks on the job, I would constantly experience my assistants second guessing my directions and decisions. Withstanding all low expectations, I was able to pull through. Circumstances, situations that may otherwise have pushed one to quit – were not able to deter me. What pulled me through the toughest times, and always gave me the courage to continue wearing Rida was the expectation that my Maula (tus) had in me. As a mumina, I have always felt that the biggest nemat for me has been to be included when Maula (tus) addresses us as his “Piyara Farzando”. As a farzand how could I stand to disappoint my Bawa Shafiq – the same Bawa that puts Mumineen first, and does Dua for us before we ask. This very strength of Mohabbat for my Maula (tus) turned things around for me. Once where I was hesitant I gained confidence. Once where I had people second guessing me, the same people stood up for me. All this happened, because…I believed in My Maula (tus) and I knew that my Maula (tus) believed in me. Today, as a wife of a Khidmat Guzar, and especially one living in the “Bible Belt” I have been fortunate to have had opportunities to speak to other Muminaat Baheno about Aqa Maula (tus) ni khushi and wearing Rida. From someone living in the United States, we enjoy many freedoms, one being the freedom of expression. From my experiences and from experiences of other Muminaat Baheno I feel that, sometimes the biggest barrier to overcome is the – internal barrier. It is taking the initial step. The step that we all believe in but are afraid to take. “Maula (tus) Na Farmaan ne Tasleem Karwu”. May Allah Subhanahu enhance the Umer Sharif of Aqa Maula (tus)and give us all Mumenaat Behno Himmat to carry on the many Farmaans of our Bawa Shafiq, Aqa Maula (tus). Ameen

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Article-63 # (HIKMAAH - MAW'IZAH - KHITABAH)

We mumineen frequently hear the terms in vaaz and bayans. I came across a very in depth article by a renowned Islamic scholar : Murtada Muthari ' Spiritual Teachings of Nahj -al Balaghah' in which he has brought out the subtle meanings and the difference between the three terms. Hope readers of my blog will surely derive insight and knowledge. HIKMAAH - WISDOM MAW'IZAH - SPIRITUAL AND MORAL ADVICE AND ADMONITION KHITABAH - EXHORTATION AND ORATORY Excerpts from the article: Hikmaah is the struggle against ignorance and maw'izah is the struggle against negligence and indifference. Hikmaah deals with the intellect and maw'izah appeals to the heart. Hikmaah educates while maw'izah prepares the intellect for employment of its reserves Hikmaah is a lamp and maw'izah is an eye opener. Hikmaah is the language of the intellect, while maw'izah is the message for the spirit. Accordingly, the personality of the speaker, plays an essential role in maw'izah, which is not the case with hikmaah. In hikmaah two minds communicate in an impersonal manner, but in maw'izah the situation is like the passage of an electric charge, that flows from the speaker, who is at the higher potential than the listener. The speech which originates from the heart enters another heart and the words which originates from the tongue, do not go beyond the ears. MAW'IZAH AND KHITABAH Maw'izah and Khitabah : Maw'izah differs from Khitabah (Oratory) Although Khitabah also deals with emotions, but it seeks to stir and agitate them. Maw'izah on the other hand is intended to pacify emotions and seeks to bring them under control. Khitabah is effective when emotions are inert and stagnant. Maw'izah is required when lusts and passions become unmanageable. Rhetoric and oratory snatch control from the hands of calculating reason, and hand it over to tempestuous passion, but maw'izah appeases the tempestuous passions an prepares the ground for calculation and foresight. The spreading of Islamic Science and Philosophy In the 11th century TOLEDO was the greatest Muslim center of learning founded in the West. In 1085 Toledo fell to the Spanish Christians. A Spanish Jew baptized under the name of Petrus Alphonsi became physician of King Henry I and thus he became the first to spread Muslim Science in the West. The most prominent and prolific translator at TOLEDO was the Italian Gerad of Cremone who had a Christian and a Jewish assistant (Intereting !!) He occupies same position in the Western World as HUNAIN held in the Islamic World of Bagdad. Gerad was rightly called the the father of Arabism in Europe.

http://mindmints.blogspot.com/2010/04/hikmaah-mawizah-khitabah.html

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By the time of his death in 1187 he had produced 80 translations, amongst authors he translated into Latin were KINDI - FARABI _ AVICENNA ( Bu Ali Sina) Latin versions of Arabic books immediately became the subject of study in the 12th Century at centres such as Bologna - Montpellier - Paris - Oxford. The translations of Avicenna, whether medical or philosophical works were received with great enthusiasm all over Europe. when the manuscripts were finally printed mostly at Strasburg and Venice, they ran into innumerable editions, sometimes separately, and at times together with the works of Farabi and Kindi. There is evidence of their widespread use at various centers of learning. BOOK REFERENCE : AVICENNA - HIS LIFE AND WORKS - Soheil M. Afnan (Phd Cent:) Personal Note: It feels sad to note that in the 21st Century Islam is being misunderstood and maligned, largely on account of of a few misguided elements. When spread of knowledge is put on the back burner, humanity suffers.

Article-64 # (The spreading of Islamic Science and Philosophy)

In the 11th century TOLEDO was the greatest Muslim center of learning founded in the West. In 1085 Toledo fell to the Spanish Christians. A Spanish Jew baptized under the name of Petrus Alphonsi became physician of King Henry I and thus he became the first to spread Muslim Science in the West. The most prominent and prolific translator at TOLEDO was the Italian Gerad of Cremone who had a Christian and a Jewish assistant (Intereting !!) He occupies same position in the Western World as HUNAIN held in the Islamic World of Bagdad. Gerad was rightly called the the father of Arabism in Europe. By the time of his death in 1187 he had produced 80 translations, amongst authors he translated into Latin were KINDI - FARABI _ AVICENNA ( Bu Ali Sina) Latin versions of Arabic books immediately became the subject of study in the 12th Century at centres such as Bologna - Montpellier - Paris - Oxford. The translations of Avicenna, whether medical or philosophical works were received with great enthusiasm all over Europe. when the manuscripts were finally printed mostly at Strasburg and Venice, they ran into innumerable editions, sometimes separately, and at times together with the works of Farabi and Kindi. There is evidence of their widespread use at various centers of learning. BOOK REFERENCE : AVICENNA - HIS LIFE AND WORKS - Soheil M. Afnan (Phd Cent:) Personal Note: It feels sad to note that in the 21st Century Islam is being misunderstood and maligned, largely on account of of a few misguided elements. When spread of knowledge is put on the back burner, humanity suffers.

Article-65 # (A Brief History of Everything - KEN WILBER)

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KEN WILBER at the age of 23 left his graduation in Biochemistry to pursue the wisdom of unraveling the mysteries. Excerpts from his book : Arthur Koestler coined the term HOLON to refer to any entity that is itself whole and simultaneously a part of the whole. For instance a whole atom is a part of a whole molecule, the whole molecule is a part of of a whole cell, and the whole cell is part of a whole organism and so on. The point basically is everything created is a 'holon' of some sort or another. Even the 'whole' KOSMOS is simply a part of the next moment's whole - indefinitely. At no point we have a whole, there are only whole/parts for ever and for ever. (On reading this I thought it as a wonderful way of TAWHEED - only ALLAH - mubde - haq - subhanahu ) is complete ALL IN HIMSELF ) It was Pythagoras who introduced the term KOSMOS. It contains Cosmos - the physio sphere 2. Bios - biosphere 3. Nous – nooshere 4. Theos - the theosphere or divine domains. There are 'holons' in all the above spheres. Every 'holon' is a whole and a part. Every 'holon' has two twendencies or 'two drives' that is to maintain both its 'wholeness' and 'partness' Maintaining its wholeness means it has to preserve its own identity, itw own autonomy, its own agency. The self transcending drive produces life out of matter, the mind out of life and towards higher stages - the Spiritual stages. The KOSMOS unfolds in quantum leaps of creative emergence. Each 'holon' has four basic capacities : 1. Agency 2. Communion 3. Self dissolution 4. Self transcendence. The Example of a thousand Monkeys and Shakespeare Play. A scientific calculation showed that a chance for a thousand monkeys to produce a single Shakespeare Play was one in ten thousand million - million - million - million - million, so may be it can happen in a billion - billion years. But the Universe is only twelve billion years old. Calculations done by scientists from Fred Hoyle to F.B. Salisbury consistently showed that 12 billion years is not enough time to produce a single enzyme by chance. In other words, something other than chance is pushing the Universe. SPIRIT is unfolding itself in each new transcendence, which it also enfolds into its own being at the new stage.

Article-66 # (Fatemi Heritage Tour of North Afrikiya)

My niyat behind writing this 'post' is that may some enterprising Travel Agency be motivated to organize a Heritage Tour of North African countries, through which Imam Mahdi (SA) traveled and founded Mahdiyah, heralding the golden epoch of 'zuhur' in Magrib, as prophesied by Nabi (SA) Hope some travel agency organizes such a tour as part of the 100th Milad Celebration of our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) AKHBAR IS ANW'AR - let me share with you the historical aspects preceding the 'zuhur' of Imam Mahdi (SA) taken from my reading of the Book entitled ' The Empire of the Mahdi - Rise of the Fatimids by Heinz Halm - translated from German into English by Michael Bonner.

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Imam Mahdi's (SA) first area of missionary activities - apart from Dai Abdullah the Elder's more closed surrounding in Askar Mukaram ( Qbr mubarak of Imam Husain-al Mastoor -S.A.) was the mountain country of Daylum - south of the Caspian Sea. After the death of Dai Abdullah the elder known in history as Khalf ( hallaj al qutn - cotton carder) the occupation he undertook as the cover of his missionary activities his son Dai Ahmmad carried on with the mission. The community of Rayy became the most important and active cell of Ismaili Dawa in northern Iran. At the same time or thereabout Ismaili missionary activities had been underway in the rural areas surrounding Kufa on the banks of the Euphrates. Another important and lasting area of missionary activities originated in Yemen. The Dai who founded the Yemini Ismaili community hailed from Iraq. In history he is known as Ibn Hawshab ( Dai Abul Qasim al Hasan bin Farah bin Hawshab, known to later Fatimid Historiography as 'Mansoor al Yemen' ( the victorious of Yemen) In his book - 'Sirat Ibn Hawshab' the Dai Abul Qasim narrates how he overcame the crisis of faith, which preoccupied him like many other (Twelver Shi'ites) followers of Musa Al Kazim. The last generally recognized supreme head of the Shi'ites, (Twelver Shi'ites) their eleventh Imam died in 874 (260H) leaving no mail heirs. The belief that there was a hidden Twelfth Imam, had not taken hold, and aroused doubts in many Shi'ite minds. In such a mental state according to Dai Abul Qasim, he was sitting on the banks of Euphrates ( furat) and was reciting from Surah al Khaif, he saw a spiritually radiant, magnificent old man approaching the river bank accompanied by another man. Ibn Hawshab was mesmerized and stopped reciting. Than a young lad came sprinting towards him. Ibn Hawshab asked - ' who are you my son' He answered ' a descendant of al- Husayn (SA)' At the mention of al-Husyn the eyes of Ibn Hawshab overflowed with tears. He said ' You are dearer to me than my father, you are the son of the Resplendent One, who was stained with blood, who was prevented from drinking water' The true meaning of the verse of Surah from al Khaif was explained to him by the spiritually radiant man sitting a little distance away, when Ibn Hawsab was summoned in his presence. This is how Ibn Hawsab became Dai Abul Qasim. The Ismaili mission in Yemen Shortly thereafter in the beginning of June 881 (267H) Dai Abul Qasim and Dai Ali bin al-Fadl set out and near Kufa joined the pilgrim caravan. After Haj with the home bound Yeminite pilgrims, they reached the port city of Aden by way of San'a and al-Junad. He disguised him self as the trader of cotton and started his mission, and the first converts were the clan of Banu Musa, who came from the village of Adan La'a in the Wadi of La'a. In the year 269H (883) he moved to Adan La'a, and from there, the dawa spread fast and openly and the permission to wage war was granted. A fortress was built at Abr Mahram, two other fortresses were also won. Bayt Fa'iz visible from far and dominating the entire Miswar region and Bayt Rayb - a fortress on sheer precipice, which had no entrance than a single gate. From this controlling position based on the three impregnable fortresses the Dai could easily rule and control the surrounding valley. The Ismaili Mission in Iraq Imam Mahdi (SA) was based in Salmaya. (Qbr mubarak of Imam Abdullah al Mastoor (SA) and Imam Ahmad al Mastoor (S.A.) are in Salmaya)

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The over jealous activities of the sons of Zakaroye led to much bloodshed. They purported to spread Ismaili Dawah. Yahya bin Zakoraye (the man with she camel)laid a seize to Damascus from early December 902 to early 903. Al Husain bin Zakoraye ( the man with a birthmark - the sahib al Sahma) was misguided and his activities led Imam Mahdi (SA) to leave Salmaya. The Imam hurriedly traveled to Hims, from there to Tripoli, spending a day there and from there to al Ramala and finally reaching Egypt, where he remained for a year. The Ismaili Mission in North Afrikiya : In February 893 (278 H) Dai Abu Abdullah referred to as - al Shi'i, set out on the Haj pilgrimage from Kufa and during Haj met and befriended Berbers of the Kutama from the region of Qustantia (Constantine in present day Algeria) The Dai won of over the Berbers trust and esteem and reached Egypt in their company. There is a detail verbatim and interesting record still in existence of the conversation Dai Abu Abdullah had with the Kutama Berbers, from whom he found out all details of their community, their numerical strength, their political allegiance to the Amir of Qayrawan. Without disclosing his purpose and his mission, he found out from the Kutama, that the Berber community enjoyed great independence, and their submission to the Aghlabid Amir was of token nature. On reaching Egypt, as was secretly wished by Dai Abu Abdullah, the Shi'ite Kutama pressed upon the Dai to accompany them to their country and teach them. The caravan went through Libyan Tripoli and the oases of the Chottel Djerid in Southern Tunisia, before arriving at Sujmar in present day Algeria. Here the Dai recruited two new novices. In early June 893 Dai Abu Abdullah - the Shi'i entered the territory of the Kutama - the present day Lesser Kabylia. He chose to live in the small town of Ikjan, in the vicinity of the ancient Roman city of Mila, the dwelling place of Banu Saktan, to whom the Shi'ite pilgrims belonged. Along with the Dai, were three Ismaili followers of Yemen. The Theocratic State of Tazut was organized by Dai Abu Abdullah. He divided the Kutama into seven parts, and raised an army out of each seventh. He sent a Dai to each village. He called the leaders and dais 'elders' (mashayikh) even though many of them were young. The booty remained in their hands until the time Imam Mahdi (SA) appeared. Nonetheless, they did this, as history records show, with reluctance and grumbling, for ever in the course of time, they had grown accustomed to power and revenue, and wrongly assumed that, it would remain ever that way. Majalis al hikmah were held daily at Qayrawan by Dai Abu Abdullah and other Dais, in which the participation of the women is particularly emphasized. Many abhorrent social practices of the Kutama were thus discontinued. When Dai Abu Abdullah struck his first serious blow after mobilizing the Kutama against the Aghlabid rule in 902 (289) Imam Mahdi (SA) was in Salamya. It was around the same time the sons of Zakaroye, were mobilizing the Bedouin tribes, against Damascus. Dai Abu Abdullah first seized Mila. The Aghlabid Amir sent 12,000 men of Qayrawan (the military outpost-jund ) westward on a punitive action. Dai Abu Abdullah's force was beaten in two engagements, they abandoned Tazut and Mila and retreated in the deep snow northward towards Ikjan. Thus Ikjan the former refuge of the Dai became once again the center of Dawa. The forces of Kutama regrouped and subsequently one by one the Forts of Baghaya, Qalama (Calama) Buna (Bone - Annaba) fell in the hands of the Fatimids. The strong fortress of Maydara ( present day Haydra ) in Southern Tunisia capitulated without struggle. The Aghlabid Amir Ziyadat Allah after his propaganda and largess failed to mobilize his troops and subjects against the Fatimids, fled from Raqqada. Thus on 25th March 909 (Rajab 296H) Saturday the Dai Abu Abdullah - the Shi'i entered in victory to Raqqada, and awaited the arrival of Imam Mahdi (SA) As Dai Abu Abdullah was consolidating his position in the Kutama country of Western

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Sahara, Imam Mahdi (SA) around January 905 (Rabi ul Awwal 292H) left Egypt and in Libiyan Tripoli he waited for his slave Jafar, to return from Salmaya, who had gone there to retrieve the treasure buried in the ruins of Imam Mahdi's house. Halfway between Alexandria and Cejrenaica the caravan of Imam Mahdi (SA) was attacked by Berber robbers. In the fight Abul Abbas, the brother of Dai Abu Abdullah, was wounded in the face. Imam Mahdi (SA) lost some of his possessions, including the sorely missed Books with the wise saying of the Imams (SA) the religious literature. Afterward these books were returned miraculously to his possession. From Tripoli Abul Abbas was sent forward to Qayrawan, where his identity was compromised and he was made a prisoner. So Imam Mahdi (SA) had to change plans. As soon as his gulam Jafar arrived from Salmaya, Imam Mahdi (SA) joined the caravan from Tripoli to far West. He was accompanied only with Imam Kaim (SA) and the gulam Jafar, the other members of his household did not join him, until afterward. The caravan first went to Qastiliya - the oasis region of the salt pan of the Chett el Djerid (Shatt al Jarid) in the south of present day Tunisia. There they made a two day halt at Tuzur ( now Tozeur) to celebrate Eid on 6th Aug: 905 (1st Shawwal 292 H) From Tozeur through the mountain massif of the Awras (Aures) they reached the oasis Biskara (the Roman Vescera) Traveling through the monotonous high plain of Central Algeria, by way of Qashliya, they arrived at SIJILMASA in present day Morocco. Here they rented a nice house from Abu Habasha. Three months later, they were joined by dependents and family members. The ruins of Sijilmasa lie right at present day Rissani on both side of the road to Erfoud. Much effort and research will be needed if a heritage trip starting from Al Qahera is to be organized. Are young enthusiastic mumineen bikers willing to give the project a thought. Alhamdolillah!

Article-67# (TIME LINE - THE GLORIOUS FATIMIDS EMPIRE )

Continuing from the earlier post where we came to know that Dai Abdullah - the Shii entered in victory to Raqqada and awaited the arrival of Imam Mahdi (SA) who was staying at Sijilmasa. Finally Imam Mahdi (SA) established himself as the first Fatemi Caliph at Raqqada in 297 A.H., and the Glorious Fatimid Era took firm root in Northern Africa. I share with readers the Time Line, the principal personalities, and their services, some major events in the establishment of the Fatimid Empire. This post is based on my reading from the Book :- HISTORY OF THE ISMAILI IMAMS - TARIKH E IMAMAT by Al Waez Hasan Husyn Nazarali. MOWLANA ABDULLAH AL MAHDI (S.A.) - 11 TH IMAM ( 268 A.H. to 322 A.H.) 1st Fatimid Caliph Mowlana Mahdi (SA) was born at Askar Mukarram on 12th Shawwal 260 A.H. On the death of Imam Husain al Mastoor (SA) at Askar Mukarram in 268 A.H. he became Imam at the age of 8 years in Salamiya. He remained in Salamiya in the guise of a Hashimid merchant, and maintained a good relation with the local Governor. In 297 A.H., as stated above he finally established himself in Raqqada as the 1st Fatimid Caliph. He bought the island of Sicily under his control and founded new towns of Mahdiya and Mohammadiyah. The Dawah in India : The Dawah began during the reign of Imam Mahdi (SA) Dai Ibn Hawshab, sent his nephew Dai al Haytham from Yemen to Sind. From Sind it spread to Multan and other parts of North India and Gujrat.

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Imam Mahdi (SA) died on 15th Rabi ul Awwal 322 A.H., at Mahdiya. Dai al- Qadi al Numan (RA) was born in North Africa and joined the service of Imam Mahdi (S.A.) in 313 A.H. Da'aim al Islam - the most exhaustive exposition of Fatimid Jurisprudence, took nearly 30 years to complete. It was completed in the reign of Imam al- Muizz (S.A.) Syedna al- Qadi Numan (R.A.) died in Cairo on Friday 29th Jamadil Akhar 363 A.H./974 MOWLANA AL QAIM (S.A.) 12th Imam. 2nd Fatimid Caliph (322 A.H. to 334 A.H.) Mowlana Abu al- Qasim Muhammad al- Qaim bi Amrallah was born in 275 A.H. at Salamiyah In 303 A.H. the nass was proclaimed on him by Imam Mahdi (S.A.) Imam Qaim (S.A.) died during Abu Yazid's siege on Mehdiya on 13th Shawwal 334 A.H. at the age of 59 years. The news of Imam's death was kept a secret until the revolt of Abu Yazid was over. MOWLANA AL MANSOOR (S.A.) 13th Imam. 3rd Fatimid Caliph (334 A.H. to 341 A.H.) Mowlana Abu Tahir Ismail al- Mansoor bi- Allah (S.A.) was born at Qairawan ( a military outpost and camp town) in 302 A.H. His entire upbringing was in North Africa amid the atmosphere of battles and revolts, which helped to develop a military spirit and discipline. He succeed to the Imamate at Mehdiya in 334 A.H., at the age of 32 years. He successfully suppressed the revolt of Abu Yazid, who was defeated, taken prisoner, and died in prison in 336 A.H. Abu Yazid was a Kharjide and belonged to the rival Zantara Berber tribe who opposed the Kutama tribe, which supported the Imam. After 7 years of rule Imam Mansoor (S.A.) died on 28th Shawwal 341 A.H. at the age of 39 years and was buried in Mehdiya. MOWLANA AL - MUIZZ (S.A.) 14th Imam - 4th Fatimid Caliph ( 341 A.H. to 365 A.H.) Imam Abu Tamim Maad bin Mansoor al Muizz (S.A.) was born in Mehdiya on 11th Ramadan 319 A.H. He succeeded to the Imamate on 28th Shawwal 341 A.H. at the age of 22 years. He is said to have known 7 languages, among them Nubian, Latin, Spanish and Slavonic. Syedna Qaid Jawhar left Mehdiya for the conquest of Egypt in 357 A.H. The first khutba in the name of Imam Muizz (S.A.) was read by Sy. Qaid Jawhar at Fustat on 18th Shaban 358 A.H. An interesting fact at the time of construction of Cairo. The building of the new town started at a time, which the astrologers thought was inauspicious, because it was governed by the planet al- Kahir (Mars) The city was thus named after the planet al- Kahira. (We mumineen know that Sy. Qaid Jawhar had taken Imam's raza and doa, so the astrological influence did not matter in the least) Sy. Qaid Jawhar personally supervised the construction of Al- Azhar Masjid. In the time of Imam Al- Aziz (S.A.) he built a huge library and a University, which at present day, is the oldest existing University in the World. Imam Muizz (S.A.) departure from North Africa to Egypt. Imam (S.A.) started his journey towards Sardinia, he regulated the affairs of Sardinia and Sicily and then went to Tripoli, from here he proceeded to Barqa, on the borders of Egypt. Imam (S.A.) entered the city on 7th Ramadan 362 A.H. Immediately Imam (S.A.) took over the reign of the government. Sy. Qaid Jawhar became the Chief of the Army. Sy. Qaid Jawhar originally a Sicilian, was brought in the service of Imam Muizz (S.A.) as a young slave. By his suppression of revolts in North Africa, he attai9ned high office. He remained Commander in Chief, till his death in 381 A.H. during the reign of Imam Aziz (S.A.) Yakub bin Killis was appointed as the Vazir. Yakub bin Killis by birth was a Jew and was born in Baghdad in 318 A.H. (930) At

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a young age he came with his father to Egypt. He was very intelligent, hard working and honest, and rose to prominence in the court of Kafur. In 356 A.H./ 967 he embraced Islam. He entered the services of Imam Muizz (S.A.) after the death of Kafur in 357 A.H. He was the most efficient administrator and Vazir of the Fatimids. Imam Aziz (S.A.) appointed him as Vazir al - Ajall (Chief Minister) in 367 A.H./ 977. Name of some of the Administrative Departments in the reign of Imam Muizz (S.A.) The Mahtasib ( anti - corruption Officer) under the office of Sy. Qadi al - Numan The Court of Mazalim' ( special court set up against the officials of the administration) under the office of Sy. Qadi al- Numan. Sahib al - Kharai ( Financial Administrator) Sahib as Shutra (Police Head) Qaid al Qawad (The Admiral of the Fatimid Fleet) The Fatimid Naval bases were : MEHDIYA - SUSA - MANSOORIYA -SICILY - CRETE The Central Dawah was headed by Syedna Jafar (RA) and Sy. Qadi al Numan (RA) The libraries in Mansooriya and Cairo became famous for their rich treasure of books on almost any science. Learned people were given all the encouragement to use these libraries. Imam Muizz (SA) him self spent much time, in the libraries reading. Imam Muizz (SA) died on 11th Rabi ul Akhar 365 A.H. at the age of 45 years. The news of Imam's death was not announced for eight months. This was the usual practice adopted, so that the far flung areas of the Empire, could be bought fully under Administrative control. To be continued.........................

Article-68 # (TIME LINE - THE GLORIOUS FATIMIDS EMPIRE PART-2 )

MOWLANA AL - AZIZ (S.A.) 15TH IMAM - 5th Fatimid Caliph (365 A.H. to 386 A.H.) Mowlana Abu Mansoor Nizar al- Aziz bi- Allah was born on 14th Muharram 344 A.H. at Mehdiya. The Zantara tribe of the Berbers formented trouble in North Africa. Bulkin managed to suppress the revolt, however, after his death his son Mansoor was not successful, and could not control fully. Yakub bin Killis - the Chief Vazir died in 380 A.H. Syedna Qadi al-Numan (RA) died in 363 A.H., and he was succeeded by his son Aly bin Numan. On his death in 374 A.H., he was succeeded by his brother Muhammad bin Numan, who died in the reign of Imam al- Hakim (SA) in 389 A.H. Imam al - Aziz (SA) died at Bilbays, while on his way to meet the Byzantine forces in Syria. He died on 25th Ramadan 386 A.H., (Dawat records the death on 12th Ramadan and was buried in Al- Kahira.) On his death bed he called his Treasurer Barjuwani, Qadi Muhammad bin Numan and Amir - Hasan bin Ammar and entrusted the guardianship on the next Imam Mowlana al_Hakim (SA) who was 11 years old. MOWLANA AL HAKIM BI AMRILLAH (S.A.) 16TH IMAM - 6th Fatimid Caliph (386 A.H. to 411 A.H.) Mowlana Husain al- Hakim bi Amrillah (S.A.) was born on 23rd Rabi ul Awaal 375 A.H. in Cairo. In 383 A.H. when he was 8 years old Imam al - Aziz (SA) declared him as his successor. In 386 A.H. at the age of 11 years, he became the 6th Fatimid Caliph.

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Barjuwani who was in charge of Turkish Guards, was the Treasurer and the tutor of Imam al- Hakim (S.A.) Ibn Ammar belonged to the Kutama Berber tribe and held control over Berber Guards. Both Barjuwani and Ibn Ammar were trying to depose each other, and in the struggle both were killed. Imam al- Hakim (S.A.) boldly acknowledged responsibility, at the age of 15 and began to take direct interest in the affairs of the State. He appointed Husain son of Sy. Qaid Jawhar as the new Vazir, but was later deposed from his position at the time of Abu Rakwa's revolt. Abu Rakwa ( Walid bin Hisham) was the Ummayad prince from Spain, who fomented trouble in North Africa with the help of the Zanata tribe, and he came close to Alexandria, on the bank of the Nile, but was defeated by the Imam's army led by Fadl bin Hasan bin Saleh. Masjid al Anwar began by Imam al- Aziz (SA) was completed by Imam al- Hakim (S.A.) in 393 A.H. The famous academy of sciences called the Darul Ilm was built by Imam al- Hakim (S.A.) in 395 A.H. It became the biggest center of learning and research, in the whole Muslim world. The academy was later destroyed by Afzal Shabin Shah. A huge canal was built at Alexandria. An Observatory at Qarafa, where the famous astronomer Ibn Yusuf prepared the astronomical tables. The famous scientist and engineer Ibn Haytham was invited to Cairo personally by Imam Hakim (SA) When he approached the limits of Cairo, Imam Hakim (S.A.) personally came out to receive him. He took up residence in Jamia al - Azhar, wrote many books and died in 430 A.H. Abul Fadl Jafar, a blind scholar of grammar and lexicography, received the honorific 'alim al-ulama (scholar of the scholars) Sayedna Hamid-ud- din al- Kirmani (RA) headed the Central Dawah Syedna Kirmani came from Iraq after the revolt of Abu Rakwa to strengthen the Dawah under the guidance of Imam (SA) He worked under KHAGIN who was Dai duat. In the year 411 A.H. (27th Shawwal) Imam al-Hakim (S.A.) was surrounded by assassins on Mount Muquttam, where he used to visit frequently for meditation and observation of Stars. He was assassinated. One of the assassin was caught and brought before Imam al - Zahir (S.A.) along with the blood stained shirt of Imam (S.A.) in the year 415 A.H. Many malicious stories of the character of Imam al-Hakim (S.A.) were spread by later Christian historians, which were reproduced by many Muslim writers, hostile to the Ismaili Dawah. The reign of Imam Hakim (S.A.) was intensely personal, direct and broadly popular. He persistently tried to correct and ameliorate the social and economic life. In so doing the rich and elite class , often seemed to particularly suffer, from his wrath and disdain. CHARACTER AND PERSONALITY OF IMAM HAKIM (S.A.) Tall, fair and strong with sparkling blue eyes and grave face. He had a towering personality, which imposed a stamp of a genius on every person he came across. He was a brave, generous. learned and just ruler. Imam Hakim (SA) reign was marked by revolts, scarcity of rains, famine and plague. However, he managed to maintain his authority through all these difficult times. NOTE: I have dwelt in length on the reign of Imam Hakim (S.A.) and there is a purpose. Historians have tried to malign his character and reign for reasons, which now are coming to light. I share a quote with readers from the Book: (SYEDNA) Hamid al - Din al -Kirmani - Ismaili Thought in the Age of (Imam) al- Hakim (SA) - Paul E Walker. (1999 publication) 'Until recently the Ismailis (we are known as Tayyebi a part of Ismailis) were studies and judged almost exclusively on the basis of the evidence collected and fabricated by their enemies, including the bulk of the medieval historiographers , who were hostile, towards the Shi'is in general and the Ismailis among them in particular.... As a result a 'black legend' was gradually developed and put into circulation, in the Muslim world to discredit the Ismailis and their interpretation of Islam ) The christian Crusaders and their occidental chorinclers, who remained

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completely ignorant of Islam and its internal divisions, determined their own myths of Ismailis, which came to be accepted in the West as true description of the Ismaili Teachings and practices. Modern orientalist, too, have studied the Ismailis on the basis of hostile sources and fanciful occidental accounts of the medieval times. Here I would like to remind mumineen of the azeem sacrifices made by our 'hudud kirams (Syedi Molai Raj saheb - just to name one of the hundreds) Syedi Qutbuddin Saheed (RA) - just to name one of the illustrious Doat Kiram for the 'hifazat' of the true Deen. It is heartening to note, that in this epoch Burhani Daur, historians and academics are trying to 'right the wrong' perpetrated in the past centuries by vested and hostile section, particularly against the Fatimids. To be continued.............

Article-69 # (TIME LINE - THE GLORIOUS FATIMID EMPIRE - Part 3)

MOWLANA AZ - ZAHIR (S.A.) 17TH IMAM - 7th Fatimid Caliph (411 A.H. to 427 A.H.) Mowlana Abu Maad Ali az - zahir (SA) was born in Cairo on 3rd Ramadan 395 A.H. When Imam al-Hakim (SA) died in 411 A.H. Imam az- Zahir (SA) was 17 years of age. Sitt-ul- Mulk, the aunt of Imam az-Zahir (SA) looked after the affairs of the State, and on her death in 411 A.H., the Imam (SA) took the reign of the Government. The year 416 A.H. saw the beginning of a terrible famine in Egypt, which lasted for 3 years. Looting and rioting prevailed, the Imam (SA) appealed for funds and sharing of wealth to the rich, but their response was very poor. A truce was concluded with Constantine VIII of the Byzantine in 418 A.H. Syria was bought under the Fatimid rule once more. Imam az-Zahir (SA) is known for his liberal and just rule. He patronized art. He opened an armament factory, where 3000 employees worked. In 427 A.H., on 15th Shabaan at the age of 32 years he died. leaving the Caliphate and Imamate to his son Imam Mustansir Billah (SA) who was seven years of age. MOWLANA AL- MUSTANSIR BILLAH (SA) - 18th IMAM - 8th Fatimid Caliph (427 A.H. to 487 A.H.) Mowlana Al- Mustansir Billah (SA) was born on 16th Ramadan 420 A.H. Eight months later the 'nass' was conferred on him by Imam az- Zahir (SA) The Vazir Jarjarai took an oath of allegiance on behalf of Imam al- Mustansir Billah (SA) at the time of the death of Imam az- Zahir (SA) After the death of Vazir Jarjarai, Abu Saad - a Jewish merchant became very powerful on account of his proximity with the royal household. Vazir Jarjarai had served under three Imams (SA) and during his Vazirate, Egypt saw peace and prosperity. Syedna Al–Mu’ayyad fi’l–Din al–Shirazi (RA) was a witness of Abu Saad's interferences and court intrigues. The confusion and court intrigues ended after the appointment of Vazir YAZURI, whose administration lasted for 8 years, a period of prosperity, efficiency and reforms.

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The court intrigues denied Sy. Al-Mu'ayyad with the deedar of Imam (SA) for 40 days. However, in 450 A.H. he was appointed as the Dai ul Dua't of the Dawah. The period of 454 A.H. to 459 A.H.,was a period of chaos and famine, but of far reaching and significant consequence for the Fatemi Taiyyebi Dawah. Sy. Al- Mu'yyad (AQ) passed these four years in conference with Dai Lamak at Dar-ul- Ilm, and thus although the Nile had dried up, the Fatemi Uloom flowed in torrents towards Yemen. Syedna Mu'yyad (AQ)remained in charge of the entire Dawah until his death in 470 A.H. He wrote most of his works, in the last year of his life. Nasir Khusraw a contemporary of Sy: Al- Mu'yyad came to Cairo in 439 A.H. and there is a historical record by him of the grandeur of the Palace of Imam Mustansir Billah (SA) Nasir ad Dawla, a former Governor of Syria was recalled on account of his inefficiency. He attacks Cairo, burning part of the City. Mowlana Badr al Jamali who was Governor of Akka, is called back to Cairo and he succeeds in restoring order and the administration. Imam Mustansir Billah (SA) died on 18th Zul Hijja 487 A.H. The following historical Akhbar are taken from the kitab: Fazail Misrul Fatemiyah : 1418 A.H. Aaliqadr Shz: Qsaibhai Saheb Vazihuddin (DM) MOWLANA ABUL QASIM AL MUSTA'ALI BILLAH (SA)- 19TH IMAM - 9TH FATIMID CALIPH 487 A.H to 495 A.H.) Imam Musta'ali Billah (SA) was born in Muharram in 467 A.H. in Cairo. At the age of 21 years he ascended the throne of Imamate and became the 9th Fatimid Caliph. Mowlana Badr al Jamali died in the year 488 A.H. and his son Sahansa Afzal became the Vazir. The elder brothers of Imam Musta'ali (SA) Nizar and Abdullah after giving allegiance to the Imam, did not honor and revolted and fled to Alexandria. Nizar was defeated in the battle, brought to Cairo and was executed. ( The present day Khoza community are the followers of Nizar ) Imam Musta'ali Billah (SA) after conferring nass on Imam Mowlana Amir be Ahkamillah (SA) and circulating the nass farman in all bilad e imaniyah died in 495 A.H. at the age of 28 years. MOWLANA MANSOOR UL A'MIR BE AHKAMILLAH (SA) -20TH IMAM - 10TH Fatimid Caliph (495 A.H. to 526 (A.H.) Mowlana Imam al A'mir Ahkamillah (SA) was born in Kahira on 13th Muharram 490 A.H., and ascended the takth of Imamat and became the 10th Fatimid Caliph at the age of 5 years. Under the command of Sahansa Afzal the Romans, who had captured Damascus were defeated, and Shansa Afzal returned in the hazrat of Imam (SA) victorious with war booty. An usurper named Sanbas with his military force surrounded Kahira, but was defeated and killed. Vazir Sahansa Afzal dies in 515 A.H. and Imam (SA) elevates Abul Mansoor al Mamun to the post of Vazir. Imam Tayyib (SA) was born in Kahira on 4th Rabi ul Akhar 524 A.H. On day 14th of Imam Tayyibs birth Akika ceremony was done with pomp and grandeur. The bushra of Imam Tayyib (SA) birth and the nass conferred on him were sent to Mowlatena Hurra al Maleka in Yemen. With Shareef Mohammad bin Haidera, he also sent an old kerchief.

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On Tuesday 3rd Zilkada 526 A.H. Imam al- Akhamillah (SA) as he led a procession of military and dignitaries of the court, was surrounded by treachery and attacked repeatedly by knife by several of the Nizari sympathizers. Imam (SA) scummed to this heinous attack and after declaring once again Imam Tayyib (SA) as his successor, and appointing Abdul Majid ( son of his uncle ) as the Caretaker, he passed away on 4th Zilkad 526 A.H. Thus ended the reign of the 10th Fatimid Caliph - a reign that lasted 32 years. Mowlana Imam Tayyib (SA) went into seclusion traveling with his trusted followers to West Africa. So this is a short account of the Glorious Fatimid Empire, which is still ruling over the hearts and minds of mumineen because of the living presence of Dai al Fatemi, our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) whose 100th Milad Mubarak we will be celebrating in true Fatemi Glory Insa Allah. May Allah grant our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) sehato a'fiayat ta kiymat. Ameen. It is my most humble desire that on the 100th Milad Mubarak I may be able to upload my 100th post. My very own small personal ohbat. Your best wishes and prayers will greatly help in achieving my objective. Sehrullah 1431 A.H. is 'mukbil'. Humbly arz to all readers of my Mind Mints blog to remember me in your doa.

Article-70 # (THE CHEMISTRY OF DEATH - NOT FOR THE FAINT HEARTED)

In the last fortnight a number of deaths, all account of natural causes, occurred in our community,in my city, which entailed frequent visits to 'kabrastan' and quite naturally my thoughts dwelt at length on death and dying, an aspect, we generally tend to keep forgetting, although Awaliya Kira'ams have been reminding us of the futility of this world. Aqa Moula (TUS) on several miqa'ts and in vaaz mubarak, has pointedly referred to azab-ul-kabr. In fact we have become so immune to thinking of death and dying that immediately after walking back a few paces from the grave, we bounce back to our world and its mundane affairs, and completely shut ourselves off from what is the inevitable. Here I recall the na'shihat of Syedi Sadik Ali Saheb, who has made several telling references on death and the body interred in the grave, in order to awaken our consciousness, to slacken our deep rooted attachment and moorings with all that is illusory, and to turn our attention to our 'nafs' (soul) which is eternal, and for the emancipation of which, we should be aware at all times. 'kholi ne a'nkh dekho basirat ni mumino ibrat che maut sab ne ye ibrat kafa kare .............. 'danayi hoi zara to woh din na bhulje jeh din tamhari zaat ne keera giza kare jai makbara ma dekho haajare quboor ma insaan kai girela hashar lag sara kare .................. sadmaat yaro maut na beshak azeem che A'aqil hase te yaad kari thar thara kare'

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So at times when one becomes so engrossed with his world, becomes immune to the whispering of his soul and consciousness, which is in fact the everlasting life sustaining force, the person is said to be spiritually comatose, and for effective treatment of such critical case, similar to one done in medical profession, the aggressive therapy of cardiopulmary resuscitation, our Awaliya ul Kiram, at times resort to conveying the harsh truths and realities of death and the aftermaths. The Chemistry of Death is intended to be as a 'wake up' call, an aggressive therapy to bring to life the spiritually comatose body. It is taken from the internet, and there are many such type of articles to be found. I seek forgiveness for laying down the facts. which will send a chill down your spine, but will surely do a world of good to your spiritually awakening (ibrat che maut sab ne ye ibrat kara kare) Excerpts from ' The Chemistry of Death' The basic stages after death Algor Mortis - Life ceases - higher and lower brain function cease, respiration stops and so does heart beat. Livor Mortis - Within a few hours of death, blood pools at the lowest portion of the anatomy. Rigor Mortis- A stiffening of body muscle due to the build up of lactic acid, among other chemicals, as a result of the early decomposition of muscle fibre. Passes as quickly as it comes, usually a day or so, starting within the first day after onset of death. Insects may begin to lay eggs in the corpse. there may be an anal discharge of any remaining stool. Purification - certainly the least pleasant stage of decomposition process, begins within three days of death.Many insects start laying eggs. Corpses start to change colour. After several days, insect larvae may begin to crawl out of the body.rodents and insects begin to partake of the meal. By a weak after death, gases produced by bacterial and chemical processes begin to cause bloating of bodies. Internally, the bacteria that all humans live with every day ( required for food digestion) such as found in the digestive tract, continue to work on. But instead of these friendly bacteria's food source being what humans eat themselves, it is now the dead human body itself which is consumed. Internal organs begin to liquefy. Within 2 weeks from the onset of death, there is a bloody purge of putrefying liquid from the mouth, nose,anus or any other opening. Within a few weeks, the body bursts open under pressure, spilling contents. There are many more gory details. It is like watching a horror movie, where the central character is yourself. I ask forgiveness of my readers, who have had the courage to read so far, but after reading it, I am confident, that their life's perspective will change for the better. At times such aggressive resuscitation does a world of good. These are the facts, which I have just brought in to focus, so that we can be more aware, that it is the 'nafs' which is eternal, and we should always strive to make it more radiant, by following the tenets of Deen, and the mubarak hidaya'ts and farmans of our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) A mumin need not worry, for Moula will be there, when every other has forsaken him. Before death overtakes you worry more about your 'nafs' (soul) and not your body, worry about the bounties of everlasting akherat and not this transitory world, in which you have visualized how it will land you up in the end. This is the potent message I would like to convey through this article. May Allah grant our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) sehato a'afiyat-ta-kiyamat. Ameen.

Article-71 # (SCIENCE IS REDISCOVERING THE TRUTHS OF DIVINE RELIGIONS)

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Dr. Qazi Sk: Abbas Borhany articles always try to provide exhaustive knowledge and are a treat to read. Internet and the mailing lists have evolved as powerful medium of knowledge dissemination, and for a true seeker who is fully focused, it is 21st Century's great blessing, but at the same time one should be cautious and fully aware of the quagmire of information, that may lead one astray. One can feel the thirst of knowledge specially in the youth of our community, the awakening of spirituality, they are seeking answers, their quest is sincere, but they have to tread the right path. From what ever little knowledge I have gained, my advice to them is to be patient, and if your seeking is true, you will surely receive all the answers. Dr. Borhany has taken pains to explain that only the intellectual meaning of the Qur'an can be conveyed by Rasulluah (S.A.) and his RIGHTFUL decedents, which includes Doat-ul - Mutlaqeen, who are custodians of the I'lm of Wahi. The entire Qur'an is full of Hikmat, and volumes can be written on a single word. The riwayat of Imam Jafar Asadik giving different meaning each day to his shia......... aptly illustrates the point. It is my Aqa Moula's ehsa'anat and nawajis that I am blessed to receive Haqaiq sabaks and the purpose of my writing this article specially for youngsters is to awaken their interest to make an effort to acquire Fatemi uloom and also to pursue science courses, the new and upcoming ones like Nanotechnology, Biomedicine and other exact scienceswhich I agree needs a lot of effort and focus, but are at the same time will keep you in perpetual awe of the wonders of Allah and his Universe, true Tawheed. As Dr. Borhany writes - 'We should endevor that scientific affirmations go to prove the Haqaiq of Qur'an, which is a miracle that renews itself in a way which is appropriate for each epoch.' Haqaiq Uloom deals with the essence rather than the meaning, it deals with concepts which can be imparted by personages, who have received raza mubarak from Aqa Moula (TUS) because it is more a soul awakening process, a creative endevour, rather than mere intellectual pursuit. In my case science and philosophy articles on the Net have helped me to a great extent in understanding the essence and concepts of many Haqaiq uloom. But my maxim has always been " I KNOW BUT KNOW NOT" A paradox in itself, but very true for only MY MOULA KNOWS !!! In this way I have been approaching all knowledge dissemination on the Net or contained in the Books that I manage to read. I will like to share with you my thoughts, the sole purpose is to whet the interest of my young friends in taking up science courses and attending sabak. Scientists are coming round to the point of view that yes religion and science can be reconciled, and many pioneering scientific works are being carried out. Scientific materialism is now mellowing and trying to grapple the puzzles of spiritualism domain, trying to understand it, there is positive shift in the minds of scientists. I feel this is the most right time for our youngsters to take interest in Science, as we have also the true knowledge of the Den, and I dream of a day in near future, when mumineen scientists will bring back the glory of the Glorious Fatemi Era of Misr. Enligtented individuals are working on HQR - Holistic quantum Relativity Project (HQR) many interesting developments are happening around the world The intutive mind is a sacred gift and the rational mind is a faithful servant. We have created a society that honors the servant and forgotten the precious gift. Albert Einstein : My religion consists of a humble admiration of the illimitable superior spirit, who reveals himself, in the slight details we are able to perceive with the frail and feeble mind. Let me share with my young friends what I have learnt from serfing the Net and which has made me understand the basic truths and concept to a certain extent. (The maxim always applies : I KNOW BUT KNOW NOT - MY MOULA KNOWS ) From Plato's famous doctrine of Ideas I fathom that MAN is more permanent than an individual. I can make a circle with a pencil and my eraser can remove it, but the conception of the Circle goes on for ever. The Philosophy of Aristotle thought me that everything in the world moves naturally to a specific fulfillment. Of the various causes that which determine an event, the final cause, which determines the purpose is the most decisive and important. (Why are we born - what is the final cause etc: are some of the questions to be pondered on)

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Spinoza believed that only knowledge , is power and freedom, and permanent happiness is the pursuit of knowledge and the joy of understanding. How many of us believe in this in this 21st Century. A marriage of conscientious scientists, as well as true spiritual leaders will be a perfect match to understand the beauty, the glory and the essence of our universe. Try to study and observe how a just born caterpillar make its own cocoon. The silkworm lays 450 -500 eggs at one time. How do they protect it ? So interesting, try to understand the Miracles in Nature. Seemly AWESOME. Log on to www.harunyahya.com and read a well researched scientific article ' The Qur'an on Human Embryonic Development" There are many other articles on Science Faith and Life. Stephen C. Meyer, a philosopher of science from the Cambridge University and who is critical of the theory of evolution as well as materialism, says in an interview: One thing I do in classes to get this idea across the students is that I hold up two computer disks. One is loaded with software, the other one is blank. And I ask, "What is the difference in mass between these two computer disks as a result of the difference in the information content that they possess"? And of course the answer is zero, none, there is no difference as a result of the information. That is because information is a massless quantity. Information is not a material entity. Then how can any materialistic explanation explain its origin? How can any material cause explain its origin?... This creates a fundamental challenge to the materialistic evolutionary scenarios. Information is not matter, although it is imprinted on matter. It comes from elsewhere, from intelligence......... Thank You Proffesor, you have explained a Haqaiq concept well. According to Schroeder, the scientific results of our age lead science and theology to meet at a common truth. This is the truth of Creation. Science is now re-discovering this truth that divine religions have actually taught to humanity for millennia. The materialistic mirage has now vaporized, and scientists are beginning to see the 'light' Very very exciting times, for one who wishes to learn and embark on the journey of Tawheed. The Human Genome Project - 34,000 genes constituting merely 3% of our genome are responsible for producing protein, The rest of the genome was, till now, considered to be junk, and supposed to produce around half a million varieties of RNA of unknown functions. From this junk yard, two scientists in the US have managed to unearth the antidote of Cancer. My young friends, the moral of the story is, take a plunge, keep trying, one day our community may be having not one but several Noble Laureates. The community is also duty bound to provide a platform and financial support, for such a big dream to be realized. The Community has the resources, the Will and right direction is required. Now I take leave of you with a real scorcher - if this does not excite and motivate you my young friends, my efforts are in vain. However, I will have the satisfaction of atleast making an honest attempt. Do take out some of your valuable time to share your own thoughts on the subject. Professor Alan Guth - the Victor Weiskopfs proffesor of physics at MIT - Massachuseets, path breaking 'inflation' theory has created a lot of heat and excitement in the scientific community, after scientific data gleaned from BOOMERANG and MAMMA experiments conclusively proved his concepts. According to the theory propounded on the origin of universe by Prof: Guth in 100 billion, trillion trillionth second, the universe underwent a period of rapid expansion doubling in size every - (hold your breath every body) 0.000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,1 second - the process eventually expanded the cosmos (now get ready again ) 100,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000 times.

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Before 'inflation' began, the region destined to become universe was more than a billion times smaller than the size of a single proton. The discovery of information in the origin of both the universe and life itself is what makes this concept so important in the modern world. Scientists today are realizing that the universe is formed by "matter, energy and information," and this is replacing the materialistic philosophy of the nineteenth century that defined the universe as being made up entirely of "matter and energy." There is still a long way to go friends, but the journey surely seems very exciting, so do not waste time, embark on the journey of Tawheed, take raza and join sabak in larger numbers, pursue science studies and become ENLIGHTENED and earn 'khusi' of our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) May Allah grant our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) sehato-a'afiyat-ta-kiyamat. Ameen.

Article-72 # (EGO)

I am deeply indebted to all those who wrote back in response to my recent ‘write up’ on HAPPINESS, which gave me more insight and knowledge on the subject. However, this article is a direct result of a mail received from Dr. Khuzema Rangwala which reads as follows: “Your article made very interesting reading. Especially the quote from Deepak Chopras book about the ego. It is excellent and very appropriate. But then the question is " How do you control your ego? Or even better, How do you decrease your ego? Is there a way? Any comments? Regards Dr Khuzema Rangwala I gave him a reply and promised that I will try to put my thoughts into words on this primordial sin, which in our belief system is referred as ‘kibr’ –mohtai and takes precedence over two other ‘ummahatul ma’asi ‘ (mothers of all sins) greed and jealousy. What is Ego ? It is deeply ingrained, compulsive need to remain separate and superior at all times, in all places, under all circumstances, it is experienced as an emotional quagmire of fear and attachment. It is part of you that is fully occupied in its personal fears and desires and lives only for itself. Ego is an anti –evolutionary force of powerful inertia in human nature, attached to the past, terrified of change. On the positive note it is also a self organizing principle, that coordinates the different aspects of the self. ( Ref: Andrew Cohen home page) Ego is very universal and Mark Twain rightly said : ‘There is'nt a parallel of Latitude but thinks it would have been the Equator if had its right !!’ The real problem is that if I am egoistic, I will never accept the fact, and that makes it difficult. However, once a person becomes aware, once self realization dawns, the problem of over coming it becomes easier. Understanding ego is the first step. For inducing Happiness, medical science has discovered drugs like Prozac, unfortunately for ego no such patented drugs are in the market. However, sages through the ages have dwelt deeply on the subject, and have applied their awakened mind and spiritual powers, and have handed down to us sure shot remedies to over come Ego. For mumineen it is much easier, as just by looking upon and reflecting on the spiritually towering personality of our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) we can grapple our ego. His life’s works and achievements, the exalted position he holds, is there for every one to see, but still he always declares himself as the ‘mamluk of Imam uz Zaman (S.A.) ‘

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The following lines from madeh aptly conveys that : ‘Mohammad che na’ib balke che sahib wa lakin ajab ehni che inkesaari Whenever moral lessons are to be derived the Nasiha’t of Syedi Sadik Ali saheb provides the answers : ‘ khawind na bol neecha kareene khel na baazi hawani nugra je koi thaya che guru thi tehni rahi na nishaani Turning the pages of Fatemi history, will bear out the fact that those, with bloated ego, were the ones who challenged the Dawat and Dai and faced humiliation and eternal damnation. As stated earlier Ego is deeply ingrained in every one, so how to control your ego ? I quote a sage who said : ‘ If you find that you cannot drive off this feeling of ‘I’, Then let it remain as the ‘servant I’ there is no fear from the ego, which is centered in the thought – ‘ I am the servant of God; I am his devotee’ A piece of rope, when burnt, retains its form, but cannot serve to bind, so is the ego which is burnt by the fire of supreme Knowledge. The wise man always says, “ It is Thou, O Lord, it is Thou” but the ignorant and deluded say “ It is I, it is I” As I was reflecting on the above thoughts, for sake of brevity I have mentioned just a few, particularly the feeling of ‘I’ and the ‘servant I’ made me recall the incident in the hazarat of Syedna Idris Imaduddin (R.A.) in Yemen, and the corresponding event of Moulai Adam - vali ul Hind to readily pray namaz behind the ‘sakka’ (water carrier). Every mumin knows the consequence of this two related events. Dawat came to Hindustan. So in order to overcome ego, one has to become Abde Syedna (TUS) not by merely writing it in bold on stationery, but by believing in true spirit, and practicing in day to day life. ‘I am a bird imprisoned in the fowler’s love It is not that I have lost the power of flight’ Ghalib The fowler’s love is your ego. Free yourself from this imprisonment and soar high In medical science, at times they resort to shock treatments to cure certain illness. To my mind, nothing beats the following home truth, that we have often heard in va’az and sabaks. ‘ E insan, su it nu fakh’r khai rahyo che, joto nathi tu ek kirafti nu vasan che’ At times when I get a little puffed up, it does me a world of good, when I look down at my stomach, and recall the above home truth. An effective ego buster indeed !! Try it out. I recommend the following ‘mind pills’ as medical science has yet to find some drug to combat the malady of ego. Hope it will work wonders with your psyche, and you will be able to control ego. The first one will surely prove very effective. E G O stands for Edging God Out - Anonymous When a man is wrapped up in himself, he makes a pretty small package. John Ruskin Attachment to things, keep alive a thousand useless ‘I’s in a man. These ‘I’s must die in order that a big ‘I’ may be born. But how can this be made to die ? They do not want to die. It is at this point that the possibility of awakening comes to the rescue. To awaken means to realize one’s nothingness. Gurdjieff, G.I. The ring always believes that the finger lives for it. Malcom de Chazal When shall I be free ? When that ‘I’ vanishes from you, ‘I’ and ‘mine’ – this is ignorance; ‘Thou’ and ‘Thine’- that is true knowledge. Ramakrishna Paramhansa. There are many such awakened thoughts that will help one control their Ego, but I will end here by just quoting one, which is a beauty. Most of the shadows of this life are caused by standing in one’s own sunshine. Ralph Emerson.

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Hope I have been able to do some justice to the subject, and it would be nice if readers can mail in their comments and insights, and personal experiences that they may have had to combat ego, it would be a learning experience for me. May Allah grant our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) sehato-a’afiyat- ta-kiyamat. Ameen.

Article-73 # (LIVELIHOOD - ALLAH KNOWS BEST)

Livelihood is governed by the dual force of Divine ordainment Human effort If livelihood was only the result of human effort, man because of his inherent nature will surely become indulgent of his own powers and likely to forget Allah. So Allah in His Wisdom has made Divine ordainment of livelihood, in order to create a healthy balance, and restrain the nature of man from going asunder. Man’s greed and avarice is compared to excess of rain, which ruins crops instead of giving a good harvest . Materialistic abundance and creature comforts tend to make man oblivious of Allah and rouse him to revolt and unruliness. History is so full of such people who revolted and got way laid from the path of truth because of their wealth. ‘And should Allah amplify the sustenance unto his servants, they would certainly rebel in the earth, but He sends it down by measure as He Willeth; verily of his servants, he is All Aware, All Seeing. ‘ (Ash-Shura – 42:27) In the riwayat of Musa Nabi (S.A.) is to be found a good example. When Musa (S.A.) approached the Pharaoh wearing coarse woolen shirt and a stick in hand, and told him to submit to Allah, in order to enjoy the continuity of his kingdom, his riches and his honor. The Pharaoh mocked him and his Vasi for coming to him in coarse woolen shirts, without any gold ornaments upon their person. He felt proud of his abundance of gold and wealth. His haughtiness was the result of his ruin. At times wealth produces inconveniences, whilst poverty serves as a guard for high moral character. There are many in this world, who live a more satisfied and contended life, and are happy for the lack of wealth. For them this meager livelihood would be far better than wealth, which might snatch away their comfort and peace. In this Sherullah Munajaat Sharifa Aqa Moula (TUS) beautifully articulates his feeling and longing and seeks for us mumineens from Allah’s fazal ‘rizq’ that will give us peace of mind and ease. ‘ Ay’a Rab’banaqsim be-fazleka rizkan murihan…..’ (Aby’at 10) It has been observed in many instances that, so long as wealth was lacking, character was above reproach, life was peaceful and unblemished, but the moment property and wealth changed into plenty, the conduct worsened, character was compromised, and inner tensions and conflicts corroded the mind, soul and body. It is our belief that ‘rizq’ is a Divine ordainment and at the same time we have to make an effort to seek it. We have to make a sincere effort to earn livelihood, you have to be true to yourself, however, in spite of your best efforts, if livelihood and abundance that you seek, is not realized – INTROSPECT - and you will surely realize that Allah wants it that way, so that He is guarding you from the vices of plenty, protecting your character and giving you the bounty of peace and contentment of life. Instead of going into depression for lack of wealth, lack of business or whatever, or frequently seeking psychiatric consultations for problems of plenty, we mumineen should seeks Allah’s fazal as exhorted in Quran ‘ …and ask Allah of His Bounty, surely Allah is Ever All –Knowing.’ An –Nisa (4:32) So when the chips are down, we should not run hither thither but seek Allah s fazal and Aqa Moula ‘s doa mubarak. We should beseech Him to grant from His Bounties and change our destinies.

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Seek from Him, if you get what you seek, better for you, and even if you do not get what you seek, be convinced it is better for you. For Allah Knows what your know not. ALLAH KNOWS BEST. May Allah grant our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) sehato a'fiyat-ta-kiyamat. Ameen.

Article-74 # (IBADAAT)

51:56 And I (Allah) created not the jinn and mankind except that they should worship me. 51:57 I seek no provision from them, neither do I desire that they should sustain Me. 51:58 Verily, Allah is the All Provider,Possessor of Power, the most strong. ADH DHARIYAT :51 Thus from the above ayats it becomes crystal clear that by offering prayers to Allah, by our devotion and Dua, we are the ones who would be receiving His bounties. His worship is in our own interest, for our well being and for our emancipation. Prayer is supplication and Praise of Allah and our complete surrender to Him not merely by words but in deed and in thought. Prayer is putting ones faith in the hands of Allah. The commitment should be total, both of body and mind. Allah. Thus one should prayer in complete surrender to His Lord. One should also prayer with feeling and marefah. When standing before Allah one should feel the Glory and Power of the Lord. Glory be to the Holy Monarch Lord of the Angels and the Soul! You honour the heavens with Your Power and Glory. (Remembrance and Prayer - Muhammad al Ghazali- English translation) Thus the sublime radiance of the lote tree in the seventh heaven and the tiniest seed in the dark recess of the earth are as one in His Knowledge, may His name be praised. The spiritually observant person although created of clay can aspire to the heavens. By selfless dua and devotion one can alchamize his triviality with sublimely and surpass the angels, who have been created sublime. Man on the other hand created of baser elements overcomes his handicap and earns Allah’s pleasure. For the westernised oriented thinking persons, no doubt there are many in our community, who do not come out openly, but have assailing doubts corroding their faith, here are some hard facts. Harvard Medical School associate professor Dr. Herbert Benson has brought new understanding on the effects of prayer. He notes that 60 to 90 percent of doctor visits are for stress related illness - including hypertension, infertility, insomnia and cardiovascular disease. But Benson has shown that the relaxed state brought on by prayer and meditation reduces the impact of stress hormones, such as, noradrenaline and adrenaline. "Repetitive prayer slows a person’s heart and breathing rates," he says. "It lowers blood pressure and even slows brain waves, all without drugs or surgery." (Reader’s Digest - Dec:1998 ) Prayer is an open hearted acceptance of the bounty and benefits, and whole hearted thanksgiving to Him who confers it. A life of prayer and devotion is not merely religiously offering of salat appointed times, ones entire life should be a form of continual prayer. In Islam earning livelihood by just and honest means is also akin to prayers, likewise different aspects of life and its noble persuasion with the sole aim of betterment of individual self and society and the world at large is IBADAT.

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However without valayat and true tawheed all our efforts and prayers come to a nought. In prayers the khalis niyaat should always be that this my Ibadat is not for personal gratification and gains, but in the riza of Allah, his Vali Imam uz - Zaman (S.A.) and in his seclusion Dai ul Mutlaq who in our times embodies the illustrious personality, the malakuti farishta our bawa - shafiq Moula Mohammad Burhanuddin Saheb (TUS) whose valayat in our hearts is the only parameter by which our Ibadat becomes acceptable in the eyes of Allah. True Ibadat is a person’s heeding to the will of Allah in every situation, his keeping the activities within the bounds of what Allah and His Vali has commanded and prohibited, acknowledging his human frailties, true repentance with a conviction not to repeat the mistakes and seeking the guidance and help of Allah and His Vali in times of tribulations and doubts. May Allah grant our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) whose entire life is a continuous Doa , a supplication to Allah and His Vali Imamuz -zaman (S.A.) sehato -afiyat -ta- kiyamaat. Aameen.

Article-75 # (Power of Prayers)

Power of Prayers - the cover story carried by 'The Week' in its 31st July issue, made interesting reading. We mumineen, as such, do not need scientific proofs to convince ourselves with regard to the healing powers of prayers. Our faith, our upbringing and numerous living proofs of our community members receiving miraculous cures, specially by doa mubarak of Aqa Moula (TUS) and by following his guidance and advice, are well documented and vivid in our memories. However, I would like to share with netizens what interested me most was the established scientific fact, that the Parietal lobe in our brain helps us distinguish ourselves from the world. This part of the brain is associated with orientation and gives a person a distinct sense of individuality - the sense of 'I' - During prayers, this area becomes quiet. As a result the distinction between self and the world disappears. Frontal lobe of the brain is associated with individual will. Prayer modulates brain stem monoamine neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine, helping a person let go of ego. Very interesting indeed ! By praying five times a day we mumineen are diluting our 'I' and letting go our 'ego' the primordial sin, the root of all our troubles, the cause of our 'fall'. All religious scriptures denounce 'ego' and teach their believers how to overcome it. Ayaamul Ibadat will commence this Jumoa 1st Rajab and we mumineen will have ample opportunity to dilute our 'I' and let go our 'ego' and thereby lead a very healthy and purposeful life. In the article Dr. Devi Shetty, the renowned heart surgeon who oversees about 24 heart surgeries a day, and has seen 30,000 heart patients over a period of 25 years, has this to say. " Every time I enter the operation theatre I pray to God, it is in his name that I operate. And every time I come out of the theatre, too, I pray and thank God. It gives me a broad frame of mind when I do that. Whatever I do, I do it in God's name. No credit goes to me.' I have had the good fortune to meet and talk with Dr. Devi Shetty when he was based in Calcutta. May Allah grant our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) sehato-aafiyat-ta-kiyamat. Ameen.

Article-76 # (MAKE YOUR CHOICE)

MAKE YOUR CHOICE The first converts of Islam - many men of very humble origins bore with fortitude and courage the hardships perpetuated by Koreish chieftains opposed to the teachings of RASULALLAH (S.A.)The hills of RAMDAH and the place called BATHA became scenes of cruel

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tortures. BILAL the first Muezzin of Islam was taken each day to Batha by his master Ommeya, son of Khalf, when the heat of the sun was greatest and there exposed him bare back, with his face to the burning sun, and placed on his chest, a large block of stone with the words - ' thou shalt remain until thou art dead or thou has abjured Islam'

BILAL HAD MADE THE CHOICE He would answer dying with thirst and under immense pain - 'Ahdun - Ahdun' that is one (Allah) one. KHOBAIB BIN ADI was put to death by mutilation and cutting off his flesh piece meal. In the midts of his tortures, being asked wheather he did not wish Mohammad (S.A.) in his place

KHOBAIB HAD MADE THE CHOICE He answered to the heathen Koreish ' I would not wish to be with my family, my substance, and my children, on condition that Mohammad (S.A.) was only to be pricked with a thorn.' When Rasulallah (S.A.) did Hijrat from Mecca Moazzam and arrived at Medina, he performed an act, unparalleled in history. He assembled the Ansars and to the care of each of them, he entrusted the Muhajereens, who were bereft of their possesion and livelihood.

THE ANSARS HAD MADE THE CHOICE They readily agreed to take care of their brethren although their own means were limited, and were themselves living a frugal life. They did not show their preference, but gladly took into their fold those whome Rasulallah (S.A.) entrusted.

Likewise, numerous incidents and events may be sighted from the glorious lives of Ahle - Baite Rasulallah (S.A.)

The last mubarak safar of IMAM HUSAIN (S.A.) to Karbala is full of events where the followers of IMAM HUSAIN (S.A.) had shown exemplary courage and conviction in their belief –

THAT THEY HAD MADE THE CHOICE During the course of journey IMAM HUSAIN (S.A.) calls ZOHER BIN KAIN who is travelling in another caravan. The messenger of Imam (S.A.) comes at a time when Zoher is having lunch. He immediately leaves the thal, comes in the presence of Imam (S.A.)

ZOHER BIN KAIN HAD MADE THE CHOICE He immediately joins with the Karbala bound caravan. He returns to his people, divorces his wife making ample provisions for her, distributes his possession amongst his family, and rushes back to become SAHEED in the path of Allah. On the night of ASHURA Imam Husain (S.A.) assembles his Ashabe Kiram and after a moving adress tells them to leave him alone to fight Yazid and his henchmen.

THE ASHABE HUSAIN (S.A.) HAD MADE THE CHOICE We mumeneen know the answer they gave. Led by none other than ABBASE ALAMBARDAR each one got up to saythat Maula we will never ever forsake you, even if we are made to die a hundred times. On the fateful day of Ashura when IMAM HUSAIN (S.A.) rode up in front of the enemy flanks and adressed them

HUR BIN RIAHI HAD MADE HIS CHOICE He moved out of the yezidi flanks and fell at the kadam mubarak of Maula begging forgivness, and went on to become the frist Saheed of Karbala.

ALLAH O AKBAR WHAT A RIGHT CHOICE SAIYEDI NAJAMKHAN SAHEB whose kabar is in Aurangabad, had been removed from his exalted position. Under such adverse circumstances he did not waver a bit.

SAYEDI NAZAMKHAN SAHEB HAD MADE HIS CHOICE He thawted the approaches of munafekeen by saying that 'it is my Maula's karam that he has kept me in his fold as a mumin.' Countless are such events in the glorious annals of our Fatemi Dawat. I am an adna mumin and my knowledge is very limited, but ALLAH guides the one...... WHO MAKES A CHOICE TO FOLLOW HIS REHBAR AND IN OUR TIMES OUR REHBAR IS NONE OTHER THAN SYEDNA MOHAMMED BURHANUDDIN SAHEB (TUS) Mumeneen of tafadi and ikhlas YOU HAVE MADE THE RIGHT CHOICE - SO NOW FOLLOW YOUR HADI AND DO NOT TRANSGRESS FROM HIS HIDAYAT.

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Article-77 # (WALAYAH)

MILAD E MOULANA ALI (SA) MUBARAK AND MOHANNA TO OUR BELOVED AQA MOULA (TUS) WHOSE 100TH MILAD MUBARAK WE LOOK FORWARD TO CELEBRATE. MILAD E MOULANA ALI (SA) MUBARAK TO MUMINEEN I am sharing with readers, in particular students of Islamic Philosophy and mumineen who are attending 'sabaks' the excerpts from the Book: HISTORY OF ISLAMIC PHILOSOPHY : HENRY CORBIN This Book primarily deals with literary expression of Shi'ism in general and Ismailism in particular. The cycle of Walayah is thus a cycle of Imam (Vasi) succeeding the Prophet; that is to say the batin succeeding the zahir, the Haqiqah succeeding the Shariah Walayah is the esoteric dimension of the eternal prophecy(Nubuwah) it is the realization of all its perfection, according to the esoteric dimensions, before the beginning of Time, and its eternal perpetuation. The two persons of the Prophet ( Nabi Muhammad S.A.) and the IMAM (Vasi Moulana Ali S.A.) prior to their earthly kinship, share a spiritual relationship (nisbah ma'naviyah ) which is established in their pre-existence. Muhammad (SA) ' I and Ali are the one and the same Light' Moulana Ali (SA) ' I was already a Wali, when Adam (the earthly Adam) was still between 'water and clay' Their pre-existence as a Pleroma of beings of Light had already been affirmed by Imam Jafar us Sadik (SA) : ' God (Allah) created us out of the LIGHT Of His sublimity, and from the clay (of our Light) HE created the Spirit of our Shi'ites.' IMAM : Their knowledge encompasses the totality of all times. They are muhaddathun (those to whom the Angels speak) MUHAMMAD (SA) is the epiphany of all the eternal prophetic Reality, the Supreme Spirit, the celestial Anthropos. This is why he can say " I am the first of the prophets with respect to creation (the Supreme Spirit pre-exists the Universe) and the last one in respect of mission and Manifestation. " One of the Prophet's most famous Companions, 'Abd Allah ibn 'Abbas, relates how profoundly impressed were those who listened to (Moulana) 'All's commentary on the Fatihah (the first Surah of the Quran). The first Imam (VASI) himself gives this testimony: 'Not a single verse of the Quran descended upon (was revealed to) the Messenger of God which he did not proceed to dictate to me and make me recite. I would write it with my own hand, and he would instruct me as to its tafsir (the literal explanation) and the ta'wil (the spiritual exegesis), the nasikh (the verse which abrogates) and the mansukh (the abrogated verse), the muhkam and the mutashabih (the fixed and the ambiguous), the particular and the general. And he would pray to God to increase my understanding and my memory. Then he would lay his hand on my breast and ask God to fill my heart with knowledge and understanding, with judgment and illumination.

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Moulana Ali (SA) : ' there is no Quranic verse, which does not possess four types of meanings : exoteric - zahir esoteric - batin limit - hadd divine plan - muttalla Imam Jafar al Sadik (SA) " The Book of God (Allah) comprises of four things – the statement set down - 'ibarah the implied purport - ishara the hidden meanings to the supra sensible world - lataif and the exalted Spiritual doctrines - haqaiq " The exoteric is for oral recitation, the esoteric is for inner understanding. Philosophical understanding of a few important terms, we regularly hear in Vaaz and sabaks. tafsir strictly speaking is the literal exegesis of the letter. tawil (etymologically speaking, this means to lead back or 'bring back' something to its origin (to its asl ) tafhim literally to enable to understand the highest hermeneutic of all. tanzil designates positive religion - it means to cause this Revelation to descent from the higher world. Conversely tawil means to cause to return, to lead back to the origin, and thus to return to the true and original meaning of the written (Revealed ) text. It is to cause something to arrive at its original. The word 'tawil' together with the word 'tanzil' constitute a pair of terms and concepts, which are complementary and contrasting. Literal Meanings of some other terms: tahqiq - Philosophical enquiery mithal symbol mamthul - that which is symbolized salah canonical prayer ma'rifah knowledge mahabbah love. Both are essential for Walayah. ulu al 'azam the men of decision. ilham inspiration alamat - signs lahut – divinity nasut - humanity kashf - mystical unveiling tajalli - ephiphanized matbu' priori - the knowledge of the first principles. istibsar – observation i'tibar – inference idrak - perception ru'yah 'aqliyah -Spiritual vision sama' aqli - Spiritual hearing 'ulum ksablyah rasmiyah - 'the official sciences' acquired from the external world by means of effort and human teachings. 'ulum irthiyah haqiqah - knowledge in the true sense received by Spiritual heritage obtained gradually or all at once through divine instructions. ta'til agnosticism tasbih the assimilation of that which is manifested in its Manifestation

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'alam al ibda / 'alam al amr The Pleroma 'alam al Khalq which is the created world, the object of Creation inbi'ath - emanation A very thought provoking video on Universal Consciousness : Suggested viewing for better understanding of how haqiqat truths and science are converging into a unified source of Enlightenment.

Article-78 # (Happiness)

While surfing for HAPPINESS on the Net I was pleasantly surprised to learn that extensive scientific research on the subject has been done, as a result some answers to basic question that had long perplexed me as to why some people are perennially happy in spite of adverse circumstances and others are for ever glum with long drawn faces, in spite of having all the materialistic luxuries that money can buy, and hard cash stuffed in Bank vaults and at homes. Scientific studies have established that happiness is largely determined by our genes. The husband and wife team of Dr. Edward and Dr. Carol Diener both psychologists at University of Illinois have published papers suggesting that 50 % of our happiness is a direct result of our DNA, 10 % as a result of wealth and good health !!! and the remaining 40% as a result of our attitude, upbringing, lifestyle, family bonding, friends and groups, in short uncharted. They have come to the conclusion after doing extensive brain mapping by positron emission tomography scans, and it has been proved that higher dopamine and left side brain frontal activities, induce happiness and sense of well being. Although no one is contending that DNA plays an important part, the difference of opinion in the scientific community is about the percentage. I have long been observing people, and with this acquired knowledge now I understand why a particular person, in spite of having all the worldly goodies and wealth, always goes about with a glum look. There are many who I know, who are well off but smile rarely, and if they do so, we say 'aaje china nu maiyyet thayu lage che' ( as our city -Kolkata , has a very few Chinese left, it refers to the rare occasion of a Chinese death) Where as there are others who lead a life of materialistic depravity, but are always contended and go about their daily life with a happy face and joy de verve. I have closely observed a few families, and rightly so DNA plays a vital part, as the streak of happiness and sense of well being and contentment, run in the family. I have seen two generations of a particular family living a very frugal existence, but both father, now deceased and his sons lead a very contended and happy life, they life reminds me of Mr. Micgwber and family in the story 'David Copperfield' by Charles Dickens if any one has cared to read it. Scientific studies have proved that after any happy or tragic incident's in one's life has played it's part, one tends to return to whatever happiness level is pre-set by virtue of their inherent DNA. The idea is similar to the set -point concept in weight control, a theory which says the brain seems to be wired to turn the body's metabolism up or down to maintain pre-set weight. Studies in several countries have established that money makes little difference in making one happy, except among the very poor. Dr. Edward Diener has compiled data showing that lottery winners are no happier a year after their good fortune that they were before, and several studies show that even people with spinal cord injuries tend to rebound in good spirit. Now for me personally that is some good news, as I am long suffering from a very acute spinal problem, a degenerating disease which is making walking difficult. I should thank my DNA. As stated earlier it has been conclusively proved that DNA plays a major role and wealth and good health have a minimal role in a life of contentment and happiness. The purpose of my writing this article is that a person whose DNA is not favorable, can try to lead a happy and contented life, by focusing his attention on the remaining contributory factors that constitute 40% uncharted factors.

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It has been observed that one who has a strong social relationship, has a very satisfied life, and people who are satisfied and have positive attitude tend to be resistant to disease. The cold virus experiment on twins has proved this fact. I have observed closely that those who were sullen and grimfaced, may be on account of their DNA after joining khidmat idaaras or social circle, go about their daily life with a happy and contended face. So even if your DNA is not favorable, you have a good chance to change your life perspective by working on the uncharted 40% Yes even if your genes are going against you, there is every possibility to lead a very happy and contended life by taking a roller coaster ride on the khidmat bandwagon, with your expertise, time and money if you have a lot of it. It will be a win win situation, where you will gain a lot and so also the community. Just take a plunge and see your life change. I have personally observed many, who have started living a very contended and happy life. Some of the other things are to learn to appreciate the small things in life, simple pleasures will keep you above the set-point, sprinkle your life with them, and in the long run, it will leave you more fulfilled and happier than some grand achievement, which tends to give you a 'high' for a limited period only. Studies have shown that the body can grow old, but the mind can still remain young, and if you can manage to keep the mind ever young and enthusiastic, it will do a world of good on your health and well being. A popular saying goes thus – "People don't grow old. When they stop growing, they become old" The following is an excerpt from the Book - Grow Younger Live longer - Deepak Chopra) A youthful mind is playful and light hearted. The ego on the other hand, is serious. It is solely concerned with power, control and approval. The ego is easily offended. Whatever arrogance or self importance people may project, if they are dominated by their ego, their underlying experience is one of fear - fear of losing control, fear of losing power, fear of losing approval. This fear leads to seriousness and the tendency to be easily offended. So once we overcome ego, we embrace happiness. To end with a quote : ' I learned to look deep into the hearts of things, till the joy of wisdom fell like a dew upon my soul' May Allah grant our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) sehato-a'fiyat-ta-kiyamat. Ameen

Article-79 # (SHERULLAH AND SPRITUALITY)

Man is first and foremost a spiritual being, a soul with a body, rather than a body with a soul. If we start thinking this way in Sehrullah, we will be able to focus more on the spirituality inherent in all our a'maal saleha that we will be performing during this month. Sprituality is the way one finds true meaning, hope, comfort and inner peace in life. Ibad'at without the presence of heart and mind becomes ritualistic, and the soul which wants to attain emancipation from the a'lam ul -mulk (the world of matter) and attain the glories of a'lam-ul- malakut (the spiritual world) is thus restrained. We should realize that in a way we are doing injustice to our ownself. I know I will be hurting many sentiments, but none the less I think it appropriate to address this very disturbing trend that has been emerging in the past several years, and this plague is spreading fast and affecting all strata of our community. It is proving a very big deterrent to attaining spirituality in our Sherullah Ibad'at. I am referring to the blatant and unwarranted use of mobiles during namaz and bayan in Sherullah. It is a painful sight to see youngsters exchanging bawdy text messages, at times immediately after the salaam of farizat namaz. Hundreds of sms fly thick and fast, the mobile companies smile their way to the bank, and shaitan is mighty pleased with himself, and sprituality is lost, the mind wanders, and precious moments are lost in mundane worldly matters.

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I fervently hope the following passages taken from the writings of true seekers of knowledge and spirituality, will help us all in attaining spirituality in Sherullah. Once realization dawns, the body submits itself to the service of the soul, and equilibrium is reached. Sherullah makes us realize that this world is a cocoon. A silkworm lovingly builds a cocoon, but cannot get out of it, and ultimately dies in it. This world is like a cocoon, we build it with great affection and imprison ourselves in it, failing to realize that the a'lam beyond our own cocoon is the real and everlasting place of our abode. To abandon the struggle to acquire transitory materialism and hapiness, to expel all eagerness of temporary desire, to burn with passion for things eternal and everlasing, this is emancipation, this is true freedom, this is Ibad'at pleasing in the eyes of Allah. This Sherullah, just try doing that, be focussed, overcome your baser elements, and feel the happiness of true freedom and emancipation. Let us inculcate spirituality in all our good deeds this Sheruallh. Mobile usage my young friends this Sherullah, during namaz and bayans, strictly no no !! Sherullah Mubarak ! Doa ni iltema's.

Article-80 # (Reflections in the month of Shabaan ul kareem)

Hadith Qudsaniyah of Rasulallah (S.A) Shabaan –o- shahri, wa Ramadhan –o-Shahrullah wa Rajabun Sharroka Ya Ali. The month of Shabaan ul kareem is attributed to Rasulallah (S.A.) who personified noble traits and virtues. He was an embodiment of all that is good and noble in this world. He attained the the height of eminence by his perfection; He dispelled the darkness of the world by his grace, Excellent were all his qualities, Pray for him and his posterity. (translation of ‘balagul a’la be kamalehi …..) In this month we mumineen should make a concerted effort to acquire and enrich the noble virtues, improve our character, reflect and try to redress the shortcomings in our mindset, in our lifestyle and in our general dealings with fellow beings. The significance and beauty of the above Hadith is that, if you reflect on the sequence of the months, first we have Rajab ul asab, which signifies the ‘valayat’ of Ali Moula (S.A.) and his progeny the Imams (S.A.) and the vicegerents the Doat-ul- Mutlaqeen. Without ‘valayat’, all our efforts, our a’maal saleh, our namaz etc: come to naught. In our Deen ‘valayat’ is first and foremost After ‘valayat’ in order to do true ibaadat, it becomes imperative on us, to acquire a holistic life. Think of husn –ul- khulq (behtar Akhlaq) and immediately one’s sub consciousness, reflects on the munificence personality of our beloved Rasulallah. (S.A.) who by mere force of his character and personality, brought about a miracle, that has encompassed many centuries, and this miracle will continue to be witnessed by generations to come till the Day of Qayamat, and on the Day of Qayamat it self. After Shabaan ul karim comes Sharullah – the month of Allah, the month of ibaadat, the month of supplicating, fasting, offering vazebaat and doing virtues deeds. The rewards in this month are with Allah, and no doubt manifold, as Allah is the Giver. So the Hadith under reference, depicts the sequence of acquiring attributes, that will find culmination in the month of Sharullah. So in this month we should try to focus and reflect on acquiring behtar Akhlaq. Awareness is the first step in acquiring and achieving, we should first become aware. In the kitaab – Nafhaat Husnil Khulq 1418H (behtar Aklaq ni khusboo) at the end of the book,a detail list of Akhlaq mahmoodah (good) and Akhlaq mazmooah (bad) are given. There are in all 152 Akhlaq

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mahmoodah, and I would like to share with readers, only a few. The niyaat is to instill awareness in this month of Shabban. Let us strive to attain behtar akhlaq,in this month. A few of akhlaq mahmoodah are : Sadaq-un-niyyat - sachhi niyyat rakhwoo Sadaq-uz-zamir - dil si sachawwoo Kazam-ul-ghaiz - ghussa ne gilee jawoo Qubul –ul- haq - haq ni waat qubool karwoo Lawmun –nafs - potana jan ne nehnwoo (introspection of self) Al-bishr–o-fil wajah – hasto chehro rakhwoo etc: At least we can begin with the last one, as we read this article !! There are 128 Akhlaq mazmooah, and all of them are the result of 3 Ummaha-tul- maa’si (mothers of sins) and if we succeed in overcoming them, we will surely succeed in our endeavors. I will just name the ummahat –ul-maa’si and once we become aware of it, we will surely try to overcome it. Kibr – mohtai Hiras - lalach Hasad - adekhai I will conclude by highly recommending my readers to acquire a recent publication by Al-Jamiyah-tul-Saifiyah of Doa mubarak – le talabe-m’akaremul Akhlaq of Imam Ali Zainul Abedin Moula (S.A.)which also has a translation in liasan e dawat. It has a beautiful lyrical quality and beseeches Allah to grant us akhlaq mahmoodah and protect us from akhlaq mazmooah.

Article-81 # (INTROSPECTION ON KHIDMAT.)

Social service sector has undergone a sea change during the last 20 years, it has attained industry status, and like any other professions, it depends upon marketing, professional inputs, and rewards with higher salary and perks at the same time trying to maintain a delicate balance of projecting itself as serving the society. Career opportunities in social service sectors are advertised regularly by educational institutes. However, in our community except for a few sections entering the idaara of social service by imparting their expertise against monetary benefits and perks, a large majority of ‘khidmat gujars’ render their services gratis. If we take only one ‘miqaat’ say Ashara, the quantum of efforts put in my khidmat gujars will run into lakhs, if monetary compensations is calculated for their services rendered. So here we will discuss what is the primary motive that drives you to join the different service oriented ‘idaaras’, tanzeem and other committees. Every one agrees that there is no monetary benefits, but at times, you have to contribute at the same time give your time and energy. What motivates you ? As you read this, just give a moments thought, to what motivates you to render your services gratis. I presume most of you will agree that it is primarily Aqa Moula’s khusi and similar sentiments. The primary motive that differentiates a mumin from the rest in volunteering into social service besides Aqa Moula’s khusi, is that he is earning ‘tosha for akherat’ which in actuality is ‘the real thing – each mumin’s goal in life, the real life after life - the everlasting abode ‘So the worldly gains and positions are not the motivating factor. Yes for some who have more free time on hand, to gainfully employ themselves in social work is an alternative. Once you enter into a social organization and by dint of your hard work, financial commitments, managerial expertise etc; and motivating power you finally find yourself leading the organization and become a ‘role model’ for the other aspirants and members of the community. You earn a position in society, at the same time you come under close scrutiny. Your actions and behavior now come under public domain.

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Your thoughts, actions and your inherent character will effect the organization you are controlling and its members. You have to reflect on your total integrity and character, the ‘vibes’ you send down the line will determine the success and failure of the organization you are heading. Invariably it is proved that the failure of any organization is result of the failure at the top level of management, be it as result of loss of integrity, governance or being out of sync with ground realities. Imam Ahmad –ul – Mastoor (S.A.) in Ikhwan –us- Shaffa has said that Akhlaq (character) is one of the four traits that will for ever remain with the ‘nafs’ after it leaves the body, and Allah will give ‘zaza’ on the basis of your Akhlaq which will be the first trait, that will be looked into, similar to Namaz, which will be the first ‘amal’ to be looked into. So Akhlaq – your character is the most important aspect. The following excepts from the kitaab- Nafhaat Husnil Khulq 1418H - which literally translates into ‘behtar Akhlaq ni khusboo’ are intended to make you introspect, and try to redress the shortfall in character and attitude of a mumin who has decided to embark on the journey of rendering social service to the community Transliteration from the book - Nafhaat Husnil Khalq 1418H RasullAllah (S.A.) ni Hadis kudsaniyah : je sakhs ke ehna mumin bhai ni hajat rawai ma rehse to khuda ehni hazat tamam karse. RasullAllah (S.A.) farmave che ke mara mohabbat karnar ne koi halku pare to yeh mara khud na samne jang ma nikalnaar na barabar gunehgar che. E Ali ! jivare tamara pase koi hazat talab karnar ave to tamo em janjo ke yeh khuda taraf thi neamat ane ehsaam che ane khuda yeh em irado kidho che ke tamara gunah ne maaf kare ane tamari hazat ne puree kare. (Now honestly do each of us think this way – it is time for introspection, looking inward, what are the thoughts one has if some needy mumin comes to you for assistance, by virtue of your holding a particular position in the organization, how you react to the situation, just give it a thought) Hope this write up will set you thinking and help you in giving gloss and glow to your Akhlaq, so that your khidmat, however small it may be, will be iba’adat in the true sense.

Article-82 # (OUR NABI (SA))

Muhammad (S.A.) was born in the Bani Hashim section of Makkah on 12th Rabi-ul-Awaal (20th April 571 CE) in the same year of the Elephant incident, and during the 40th year reign of Kisra (Khosru Nushirwan) The elephant incident took place in the month of Muharram. It was a Divine Sign form Allah of the advent of a Prophet in the Arab land, who will vanquish polytheism and bring in Islam. Abrahah As-Sabah Al-Habashi, who was the viceroy in Yemen, built a large church in San'a in order to attract the Arab pilgrims, to the exclusion of Makkah. A man from the Kinanah tribe understood his motive, therefore he entered the church under the cover of night, smearing excrement on its front walls. When Abrahah learned of this, he became enraged and led a great army- of sixty thousand warriors, to demolish Al-Ka'bah. He chose the biggest elephant for himself. His army included between 9 – 13 elephants. He continued marching until he reached a place called Al-Magmas. There he mobilized his army and preparedhis elephants to enter Makkah. When he reached the Muhassir Valley, between Muzdalifah and Mina, the elephants knelt down and refused to go forward. When ever they directed it to the north, south or east, the elephants moved quickly but when directed towards al-Ka,bah in the west, it knelt down. Meanwhile, Allah sent birds in flight upon them, throwing forcefully stones of baked clay upon them and made them like scattered chaff. A large number of Abrahah's soldiers were killed in this way and others fled

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and died every where. Abrahah himself had an infection that required his fingertips tobe cut off. When he reached San'a, he was in a miserable state and died soon after. Abdullah the father of Muhammad (SA) was the most chaste and loved amongst the sons of Abdul-Muttalib. His mother was Fatimah, daughter of Amr bin A'idh Imran bin Makhzum bin Yaqzah bin Murrah. Abdul-Muttalib chose Aminah to be the wife of his most beloved son Abdullah. She was daughter of chief of Bani Zahra – Wahb bin "abd Manaf bin Zuhrah bin Kilab. She thus, in the light of this ancestral lineage, stood eminent, in respect of nobility of position and descent

Article-83 # (REBUILDING OF KABA)

When Muhammad (SA) was 35 years of age the Quraish started rebuilding of Al-Ka'bah -it was not more than 9 arm's length and roofless from the time of Ishmael (SA) Heavy rains had damaged the edifice. The chiefs of Quraish decided to use licit money in rebuilding the Ka'bah, so all money derived from immoral means, usury or unjust practice was excluded. They were at first too fearful to knock down the walls, but Al Walid bin Al- Mughirah began the task. Seeing that no harm had happened to him, the others participated in demolishing the walls, until they reached the basis laid by Ibrahim Nabi (SA) When they started rebuilding the walls, they divided the work among the tribes. The man who laid the stones was a Roman named Baqum. The work went on in harmony, until the time came to place the sacred Black stone in its position. Then strife broke out amongst the chiefs, and lasted for four or five days. Daggers were on the point of being drawn and great blood shed seemed imminent. Luckily, the oldest amongst the chiefs, Abu Umaiyah bin Mughirah Al-Makhzumi made a proposal that was accepted by all. He said: ' Let him, who enters the Sanctuary first of all, decide on the point.' It was then Allah's Will that the Messenger of Allah (SA) should be the first to enter Ka'bah. On seeing him, all of them cried out aloud " Al Ameen (trustworthy) has come. We are content to abide by his decision. "They informed him of their objective. He asked for a mantle spreading it on the ground and placing the stone in its center. He then asked the representatives of different clans among them to lift the mantle. When it reached the proper place, Muhammad (SA) laid it in the proper place, with his own hands. This is how a very tense situation was eased and a grave danger averted by the wisdom of the Prophet (SA) When the building of Al –Ka'bah was finished, it assumed a square form about 15 mtrs: high. The side with the Black Stone and the one opposite were 10 mtrs: long each. The Black Stone was 1.5 mtrs: from the ground level, the two other sides were 12 mtrs: long each. The door was 2 mtrs: high from the level ground. A roof was erected which rested on 6 columns.

Article-84 # (REVELATION AND THE START OF PREACHING ISLAM)

Muhammad (SA) was accustomed to pass long hours meditating and speculating over all aspects of creation around him. He used to provide himself with Saweek (barley porridge) and water and directly head towards the hills and ravines in the neighborhood of Makkah. His favorite resort was a cave named HIRA. Hira on Mount An-Noor was 2 Niles from Makkah – a small cave 4 arms length long & 1.75 arm's length wide. In Ramadan he used to meditate there, and this seclusion attended with sort of reflective approach, must be understood in its Divine perspective. It was a preliminary stage to the grave responsibilities that he was to shoulder very soon. It was a rich period of privacy, which lasted for three years prior to the beginning of his mission.

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When he was forty, the signs of Prophethood started to appear and twinkle on the horizons of life. The stones of Makkah would greet him with Salam. He would not have a dream except that it would become a reality, as clear as dawn, this lasted for six months. In Ramadan, in his third year of solitude, in the cave of Hira, Allah's Will desired His mercy to flow on earth, and the light of Revelation of the Qur'an burst upon him in the cave of Hira. After a pause of a few days, Revelations started coming strongly, frequently and regularly. For the first three years after the first Revelation, Muhammad (SA) propagated Islam in secret, to a selective few. In spite of the secretive call, news leaked to the Quraish, but they paid little attention to it, since the Prophet was not assaulting their religion nor speaking about their gods. For three underground years of activism, a group of believers emerged stamped by a spirit of brotherhood and cooperation, with one definite objective in their mind, that of, propagating and deeply establishing the call of Islam. Then came the Revelation : ' And warn your tribe of near kindred' [ 26:214] Now the time had come to preach the faith openly, the duty to publicize it for his people, to confront them, invalidate their falsehood, and crush down their idolatrous practices. In obedience to Allah's Commands, Muhammad (SA) called his kinsmen of Bani Hashim. There counted forty five men. Abu Lahab showed his enmity by taking the initiative of speaking in a threatening tone, in reply to which Moulana Abu Talib (SA) replied : " We love to help you, accept your advice and believe in your words. These are your kinspeople whom you have gathered and I am one of them and I am the fastest to do what you like. Do what you have been ordered, I shall protect and defend you…" Once Muhammad (SA) became sure of Moulana Abu Talib's commitment to protect him, while he called the people unto Allah, he stood up on Mount Safa one day and called out loudly " Ya Sabahah!" (this is an Arabic expression used when one appeals for help or draws the attention of others to some danger) Groups of Quraish came to him. He called them to Tawhid, faith in Allah, his Messengership and the Day of Resurrection. The Prophet's voice kept reverberating in Makkah and the following Verse was revealed: ' Therefore proclaim openly that which you are commanded, and turn away from Al-Mushrikun (polytheists) [15:94] Allah's Messenger (SA) began to proclaim the invitation to Islam at the gatherings and assemblies of the polytheists. He began to worship Allah right before their eyes, praying aloud in Ka'bah during the day time while they watched. He started disapproving the superstitious practices of idolatry, and revealing its worthless reality and utter uselessness. All this resulted in increased acceptance of the call; people were entering Allah's religion one after another. This caused enmity to develop between the converts and their relatives, and it all made the Quraish shudder in disgust over what they saw Having fully perceived that Muhammad (SA) could never be prevented from accomplishing his mission, the Quraish became really frightened and in a desperate attempt to suppress the tidal wave started resorting to cheap means.They started taunting, degrading, ridiculing, especially the new converts in general and Muhammad (SA) in particular. Among the early converts, there was a group who had unfortunately no strong clan to support them these innocent souls faced inhuman torture. They started distorting Muhammad (SA) teachings, creating doubts, circulating false propaganda, allegations etc: An-Nadr who got himself acquainted with old history and tales, would follow Muhammad (SA) and after him would narrate the stories of yore, and taking help of female singers and their body charms, would try to entice away from Islam anyone

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developing the least attachment to Muhammad (SA) By the middle of the fourth year of the Call, the Quraish realized that their taunts and propaganda had failed to stem the tide, and becoming desperate they started torturing the converts. (In one of my earlier article entitled "Make your Choice') I have narrated in detail some of the inhuman tortures inflicted to the hapless victims. The pagans would also throw some of the converts into animal enclosures andthen drag them into hot sun. They would put iron armor on some of them and throw them upon boulders to fry in the desert sun. As for the prophet, it was not easy to harm him because he had such significance, nobility and matchless perfection of character that prevented his enemies from committing any act of foolishness against him. Moreover, there was also full support of Moulana Abu Talib (SA)

Article-85 # (ISLAM SPREADS INSPITE OF PERCECUSUIONS)

The Quraish infidels found to their horror the power of Islam rapidly and steadily marching to cancel their religious and wordly authority. The notables approached Moulana Abu Talib (SA) and pleaded with him to restrain Muhammad (SA) from cursing their gods, finding faults with their way of life etc: When they came a second time Moulana Abu Talib (SA) called his nephew and narrated the appeals made by the Quraish chieftains, to refrain from propagating Islam. Muhammad (SA) replied: ' O my uncle! By Allah, if they put the sun in my right hand and the moon in my left on condition that I abandon this course. I would not abandon it until Allah has made me victorious or I perish therein.' Thus saying as Muhammad (SA) got up and turned away, his uncle called him and said: ' Come back my nephew' and when he came back, he said, ' Go and preach what you please, for by Allah, I will never forsake you.' He then recited two lines of verse with significant meanings of full support to the Prophet (SA) and absolute gratification by the course that his beloved nephew had chalked out in Arabia. "Wal'lahey Layn Yasallu ilaiyka Bey'jamihim; Hatta O Was'sada Fit Turabey Dafina" Wallah! They (Mushrikeen of Quraysh) will never hurt you even if they have large force and power, till the time I am buried in the grave. "F'asd'a Bey Amreka Ma Aliyka Ghizazah; W'abshir Bey'zaka Waqarra Minka Uyuna" You continue Dawat with full force, no one has power to stop you; be happy and may Allah always cool your eyes. Note: The above verses are taken from the article : The Founder of N'aat Legacy by Qazi Dr. Shaikh Abbas Borhany. The heathen Quraish now became desperate and started atrocities against Allah's Messenger. Abu Lahab took the initiative in the new series of persecutions. He started throwing stones at Muhammad (SA) until his ankles bled, showing delight on his second son's death and calling Muhaamd (SA) ' the man cut off with offsprings' Allah revealed Surat Al Kawthar to assuage his Prophet. Abu Lahab's wife Umm Jamil bint Harb, the sister of Abu Sufyan had also her share in this merciless campaign. She proved she was no less than her husband in the enmity and hatred . In order to cause bodily injury to Muhammad (SA) she used to tie bundles of thorns with ropes of twisted palm leaf fiber and scatter them in the paths of the Prophet (SA)

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She was really an ill mannered and bad tempered woman with abusive language, skilled in the art of hatching intrigues and enkindling the fire of enmity and hatred. She was deservedly stained as ' the carrier of firewood' in the Noble Qur'an. Ibn Ishaq said: ' The group of those who used to harm Allah's Messenger (SA) in his house included Abu Lahab, Al- Hakam bin Abul-'As bin Umaiyah, 'Uqbah bin Abi Mu'ait, 'Adi bin Hamrah' Ath Thaqafi and Ibn Al-Asda' Al-Hudhali. All these were his neighbours. One of them would throw the womb of a sheep on him while he was praying, another would throw it in his prepared pot (of food) To this insensitive torture Muhammad (SA) would say “O Bani 'Abd Manaf! What kind of neighborly treatment is this?" He would bear this inhuman torture with fortitude and continue with his Mission.

Article-86 # (THE FIRST MIGRATION)

The first migration to Abyssinia (Ethiopia) took place in Rajab in the fifth year of the Prophethood. A group comprising of twelve men and four women left in the dark of the night, and reached the Port of Shu'aibah were two boats were readyto take them to the court of Ashamah, who held the title of Negus, and this group of emigrants were received warmly and accorded due hospitality. The news of the hospitality and good treatment accorded to the emigrants reached the Makkans, and the polytheists became more annoyed and started to inflict more horrible ill-treatment and tortures to the Muslims. In due course, another group managed to evade the Makkans and managed to immigrate to Abyssinia. This group comprised of eighty three men and nineteen or in some versions eighteen women. It included Moulana Ja'far bin Abi Talib. The Quraish could not tolerate the prospect of secure and safe place available for the Muslims in Abyssinia, so they dispatched tow messengers to demand their expulsions. They were the wily 'Amr bin Al-'As and Abdullah bin Abi Rabi'ah. They had taken with them valuable gifts to the king and his clergy, and had been able to win some courtiers over to their side. However, the eloquence of Moulana Ja'far bin Abi Talib made a very favourable impression on Negus, who was convinced of the Truth. He returned the gifts of the Quraish and sent both the messengers back, licking their wounds. He assured the Muslims full protection. The Muslims lived in Abyssinia undisturbed for a number of years. The polytheists after failing to negotiate with Muhammad (SA) tried to harm him, an unsuccessful attempt was made by Abu Jahl to take his life by throwing a big rock. 'Uabah bin Abi Mu'ait tried to choke the Prophet by pressing his feet firmly on the neck of Muhaamd (SA) while he was prostrating himself in prayer. Moulana Abu Talib (SA) became very worried of this machinations of the heathen Quraish to kill the Prophet (SA) He persuaded his clan of Banu Hashim and Banu Al-Muttalib to support his nephew and protect him. The Quraish countered by entering into a pact of injustice and aggression. They held a meeting at a place called Wadi Al-Muhassab and took an oath not to have any dealings with Banu Hashim and Banu Al_Muttalib, to severe all social relations, visits and even verbal contacts until the Prophet (SA) was given up to them to be killed. This they wrote down, drawing up a pact and a covenant. This treaty was hung up on the wall of Ka'bah. Moulana Abu Talib (SA) wisely and quietly took stock of the situation and decided to withdraw to a valley on the eastern outskirts of Makkah. The two tribes were thus confined within a narrow pass (Shi'b of Abu Talib) from the beginning of Muharram, or later as per some accounts, in the seventh year of the Prophethood till the tenth year viz: a period of three years. It was a horrible and deadly siege. The supply of food was almost stopped and the people in confinement faced great hardship. Cries of little children suffering from hunger used to be heard clearly.

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Nothing eatable reached them except, on few occasions, some small quantities of food was smuggled by some compassionate Makkans. During the prohibited months – when hostilities traditionally ceased, they would leave their confinement, and buy food from outside Makkah.

Article-87 # (Muhammad (SA) sets out for TAIF)

Muhammad (S.A.) set out from Mecca in the year 619 C.E. to bring the Quraish polytheists into the fold of Islam. He went with his freed slave Zaid bin Harithhah to Al – Taif a prosperous town having fruit and vineyard farms, located at a distance of 60 kms from Mecca. He first approached the family of Umair, reckoned as among the nobility of the town. All the three sons of Umair turned a deaf year and used abusive language, as regards the cause for which he had been striving. For ten days, he stayed in al Taif, delivering the message of Islam to all the noble people, one after another, but to no avail. Contrary to Arab tradition of hospitality, he was hooted at and pelted with stones, and obliged to flee pursued by a merciless crowd. So much so, that blood flowed down his legs and thus tired and exhausted, he took refuge in one of the numerous fruit farms, and rested against the wall of a vineyard belonging to Walid bin Ukaba. Seeing the plight of a stranger he sent with his slave Adras, who was a practicing Christian, a bunch of luscious grapes – 18 in all. Nabi Muhammad (S.A.) quenched his thirst and felt refreshed, and prayed for Walid, who himself died a polythist, fighting the Muslims, but in his descendents, the flower of Islam bloomed, so much so, that as a direct result of Nabi Muhammad (S.A.) prayer, on that eventful day at Al – Taif the Fatemi Dawat of Yemen was resplendent with 18 Doat ul Mutlaqeen, the first and foremost being Syedna Ali bin Mohammad Walid (RA) whose story of tawajo and khusu in well known in the annals of Fatemi Dawat, and it is not mere coincidence that Syedna Mohammad bin Walid (RA) wrote 18 kutubs, and till end, use to go to Masjid to offer Namaz. At Al Taif at a time when the whole world seemed to have turned against him, Muhammad (S.A.) turned to his Lord, and started praying; those touching words are still preserved, as those through which his wronged soul expressed distress and anguish. HE WAS TIRED AND WOUNDED BUT AT THE SAME TIME CONFIDENT OF THE HELPOF HIS LORD. 'O Allah! To you alone I complain of my weakness, my insufficient ability and my insignificance before the people. You are the Most Merciful of the merciful. You are the Lord of the helpless and the weak. O Lord of mine! Into whose hands would you abandon me: into the hands of any unsympathetic distant relative, who would angrily frown at me or to the enemy, who has been given control over my affairs? But if your wrath does not fall upon me, there is nothing for me to worry about! Your pardon is ample enough for me; I seek pardon in the light of your Face, which illuminates the darkness, fixing the affairs in this world and in the Hereafter. May it never be that I should incur your wrath, or that you should be wrathful to me? And there is no power nor resource, but yours alone.

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Article-88 # (The Hijrat to Medina)

At the meeting at An-Nadwah, there was a lengthy debate and several proposals were put forward. The arch enemy Abu Jahl bin Hisham suggested that they kill the Prophet (SA) and this heinous crime to carried out by a band of young men each form one tribe. This sinful proposal was unanimously accepted and the representatives went back homewith full determination for immediate implementations. Muhaamd (SA) immediately came to know of the diabolic plot by a Revelation in which he was also granted permission to leave Makkah. The eleven polytheists surrounded the house of Prophet (SA) as night fell, and Abu Jahl strutted around the house with pride, confident that they will succeed before dawn. Occasionally they use to peep inside the house making sure that Muhammad (SA) and Moulana Ali (SA) were there. They had planned to strike in a group as Muhammad (SA) emerged for morning namaz. Before dawn break Muhammad (SA) left the house, making Moulana Ali (SA) sleep on his bed wearing his mantle. Muhammad (SA) left the house casting a handful of dust on the assassins and reciting the verses from Quran. In the early morning the assassins were bewildered to find Moulana Ali (SA) sleeping on the bed, and by this time Muhammad (SA) had long left Makkah and tricked the polytheists by taking the road least expected lying south of Makkahand leading towards Yemen, than the usual road going to Makkah. Muhammad (SA) hid in the cave on mount Thawr with his companion for three nights. After the frantic search had slowed by the Quraish, Abdullah bin Uraiqit who was a trusted guide, came to the cave with two camels and Muhammad (SA) departed with food provisions for the onward journey through the seldom used ways along the coastal route. That was in Rabi'ul Awwal 1st year A.H. September 16, 622 C.E. After traveling through many villages they finally reached Quba on Monday , 8th Rabi'ul Awaal ie: September 23rd 622 AC in the forteenth year of Prohpethood. The shouts of Allahu Akbar resounded amongst the Muslims, whose joys knew no bounds as they show they beloved Nabi (SA) emerging out of the desert mirage, from their look out point at Harrah. They had been going there each morning, and waiting till noon to catch the glimpse of the Prophet (SA). Muhaamad (SA) stayed in Quba for 4 days. He built the Masjid and prayed there. Moulana Ali (SA) stayed back in Makkah for three days to return the trusts on behalf of the Prophet (SA) to their respective owners, and emigrated thereafter and reached Quba. On the fifth day Friday he accompanied by his maternal uncles Bani An-Najjar and others, he rode towards Madinah amidst throngs of joyous Madiense, who had lined his path.Though not wealthy, every Ansar (helper) was eager to receive the Messenger in his house. It was indeed a triumphal procession. Around the camel of Muhammad (SA) and his immediate followers, rode the chiefs of the city in their best garments and in glittering armor, the little girls chanting beautiful verses of welcome. Every one pleading with Muhammad (SA) as he passed their houses to alight and stay with them. Muhammad (SA) used to reply courteously and kindly to each of them " Leave it (camel) on its way, for it is commanded (by Allah)" The camel moved onward with loosed rein, reached the site were Masjid ul – Nabawi will be built. The camel knelt down, but Muhammad (SA) did not dismount, until the camel rose again, moved forward, turned back, and came back to kneel down in the very former spot. At this spot, Muhammad (SA) alighted in the area inhabited by Banu An-Najjar, a tribe related to the Prophet (SA) from the maternal side. The fortunate host Abu Ayyub Ansari, whose house was the nearest to the spot escorted Muhammad (SA) to his dwelling. The first task to which Muhammad (SA) attended was the building of the Masjid, at the spot where his camel had knelt down. The land which belonged to two orphans was purchased, the ground was cleared of weeds and shrubs, and leveled. Muhammad (SA) himself carried bricks and stones and recited verses, in praise of Allah.

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Article-89 # THE BROTHER HOOD)

A brotherhood between the Ansar ( Helpers) and Muhajirun (Emigrants) was established, the most unique in the history of the world. A gathering of 90 men, half of them Helpers and half of them Emigrants assembled in the house of Anas bin Malik, where Muhammad (SA) gave the spirit of brotherhood his blessings. Muhammad (SA) attached to that brotherhood a valid contract: it was not just meaningless words but rather a valid practice relating to blood and wealth. The atmosphere of brotherhood created a spirit of selflessness infused deeply in the hearts of his followers, and produced healthy results. The Helpers were extremely generous to their brethren –in-faith. Abu Hurairah reported that once the Helpers approached the Prophet (SA) with the request that their orchards of palm trees should be distributed equally between the Muslims of Madinah and their brethren from Makkah. But Muhammad (SA) was hesitant to put this heavy burden on them. It was, however, decided that the Emigrants would work in the orchards along with the Helpers and the yield would be divided equally among them. The Emigrants took only what helped them make a reasonable living. This mutual brotherhood was so wise and timely, that many problems were resolved, and progress achieved wonderfully.

Article-90 # (MUNAJAT SHARIFA 1429H - MY TASAVURA'T)

Generally we all try to equate ‘barakat’ with material gains and prosperity. Talk to any one and you are likely to receive set answers like - I made a windfall income, my business turnover increased, we managed to buy a new house, a new car etc: etc: However, Aqa Moula’s doa Mubarak ‘barakallahho’ is very expansive in its meaning and fruition. It is not restricted to material gains and prosperity only, it has deep meaning and covers the entire gamut of one’s life, so that a mumin by the virtue of this Doa Mubarak, is able to live a contended life of ease and happiness and also try to be spiritually awakened, and be in contemplation of his soul – which in fact is the real thing, whose emancipation, should be his striving and his goal. In this Sheruallah Aqa Moula (TUS) has bought into focus this very fact in the Munajat Sharifa 1429H

ك ًُُفىَس اُلوؤ ِهٌِنَي ُهَضا ِعًفا َوَباِر ٍُ ِهي َزَمَىاِث ِبَاضَعاِف َهاَأدَّ و

هؤهٌني هي هج زمىة اداء ميدي اهٌا مر تا اضعافا هضا عفت هي سككال ًا ًفىس ها برمت عطاء مرجسس

'Vazebat’ is directly linked to ‘barakat’ in the soul. It may seem a paradox to many, but here in is the truth. With this Doa Mubarak the community focus will have a paradigm shift from only material gains and prosperity to that of enrichment of

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character, mind and soul. One should now shift his focus from materialism to spirituality and the development of the mind. Start looking more inward rather than outward. I am very confident that if one starts learning to focus on the ‘barakat’ emanating in his soul, on account of him giving ‘vazebat’ and receiving the Doa Mubarak of Aqa Moula (TUS) a mumin will develop into a more fuller, awakened and emancipated human being. Mumineen will desist from vain glory in material possessions and imbibe noble traits of character, which will enrich the mind and soul. The exalted status of Aqa Moula (TUS) and his beseeching Allah, on the Night of Qdr, itself signifies, that his Doa Mubarak stands fulfilled and answered. Now it is for us mumineen to turn our focus on matters spiritual, and those concerning the development of noble virtues (makarim –ul- akhlaq) and acquiring of Ilm. When the mind dwells in the midst of material and evil propensities, it is like a gentleman dwelling in the slums of the big city. It is to the simple minded that Allah reveals His Own Nature. Here a word of caution, simple minded should not be confused with simpleton. Our soul is simple (baseet) Always one should discriminate in one’s mind between true and false, the eternal and transient, and then leaving aside all that is transient, one will slowly learn to fix his mind, upon that which is eternal, that, which is everlasting. Once realization dawns, we will surely experience the fruition of Aqa Moula’s Doa Mubarak in our daily lives. For once, let us change our focus from materialism. In the context of Aqa Moula’s Doa Mubarak, wealth generation and worldly prosperity is secondary. It will surely grow, as you have already earned it (it is a different subject, which I will not elaborate here) Focus on the barakats emanating on account of Aqa Moula’s Doa Mubarak on your mind and soul. Barakat is not only material gains, it is more encompassing. Start looking inwards and realize the heavenly expanse of your mind and soul. Aqa Moula’s Doa Mubarak in the context of the above Abya’t Sharifa will surely help you in your quest. The following lines are so very appropriate and authentic. They reveal the Noble Mission of Aqa Moula (TUS) In myriad of ways with the ‘ta’eed’ of Imam-uz-Zaman (S.A.) Aqa Moula (TUS) is leading mumineen to achieve total emancipation of mind, body and soul. Hold steadfast to him, and see the miracle working in you. 'Dawat ki khilqaton se aja’aib nufusko Ijaad kar raha hai ye A’shir naye naye Farman e ezadi se Dawat ke kanj se Makhrij tu kar raha hai khamair naye naye'

Article-91 # (SHERULLAH AND SPRITUALITY)

Man is first and foremost a spiritual being, a soul with a body, rather than a body with a soul. If we start thinking this way in Sehrullah, we will be able to focus more on the spirituality inherent in all our a'maal saleha, that we will be performing during this month.

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Sprituality is the way one finds true meaning, hope, comfort and inner peace in life. Ibad'at without the presence of heart and mind becomes ritualistic, and the soul which wants to attain emancipation from the a'lam ul -mulk (the world of matter) and attain the glories of a'lam-ul- malakut (the spiritual world) is thus restrained. We should realize that in a way we are doing injustice to our ownself. I know I will be hurting many sentiments, but none the less I think it appropriate to address this very disturbing trend that has been emerging in the past several years, and this plague is spreading fast and affecting all strata of our community. It is proving a very big deterrent to attaining spirituality in our Sherullah Ibad'at. I am referring to the blatant and unwarranted use of mobiles during namaz and bayan in Sherullah. It is a painful sight to see youngsters exchanging bawdy text messages, at times immediately after the salaam of farizat namaz. Hundreds of sms fly thick and fast, the mobile companies smile their way to the bank, and shaitan is mighty pleased with himself, and sprituality is lost, the mind wanders, and precious moments are lost in mundane worldly matters. I fervently hope the following passages taken from the writings of true seekers of knowledge and spirituality, will help us all in attaining spirituality in Sherullah. Once realization dawns, the body submits itself to the service of the soul, and equilibrium is reached. Sherullah makes us realize that this world is a cocoon. A silkworm lovingly builds a cocoon, but cannot get out of it, and ultimately dies in it. This world is like a cocoon, we build it with great affection and imprison ourselves in it, failing to realize that the a'lam beyond our own cocoon is the real and everlasting place of our abode. To abandon the struggle to acquire transitory materialism and hapiness, to expel all eagerness of temporary desire, to burn with passion for things eternal and everlasing, this is emancipation, this is true freedom, this is Ibad'at pleasing in the eyes of Allah. This Sherullah, just try doing that, be focussed, overcome your baser elements, and feel the happiness of true freedom and emancipation. Let us inculcate spirituality in all our good deeds this Sheruallh. Mobile usage my young friends this Sherullah, during namaz and bayans, strictly no no !! Sherullah Mubarak! Doa ni iltema's. May Allah grant our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) sehato a'fiyat-ta-kiyamat. Ameen.

Article-92 # (THE SECRET)

The other day I had an opportunity to interact with a family friend who came visiting from outstation. I met her after a long time and this young mumina, who I knew to be well educated, had in the intervening years seemed to have acquired a lot of knowledge and appeared well read on subject of metaphysics, faith healing, physic and pranic healing, yoga, Reiki etc: She has been attending many such sessions and talked at length with full conviction of its importance, and gave some insights and recommended some books to me, for which I am indebted to her. However, I found that many of the truths and concepts are divulged regularly in vaaz and sabaks, and in this glorious Burhani Daur for a true seeker of knowledge, the opportunities are there more so, than in the previous zaman of Doat Kiram sahebs. This is common knowledge. Another relative of mine who had come down from Singapore had attended the 2 day Pranic Healing session at Taj Bengal, conducted by Master Choa Kok Sui, the founder of modern Pranic Healing and Kriyashakti. (www.pranichealing.com) After shelling out a pricey sum for a two day session, on interaction with him, I found that he was very upbeat, at having learnt from the great master him self, the art of applying 'prana' or vital life force in every aspect of life. All this developments set me reflecting on what is that attracts these educated youngsters to know more about metaphysics and spiritual awakening, reading books, attending sessions, but when asked - do they attend sabaks, where according to me, we get to know the same things, they are lukewarm, giving standard excuses.

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I have been reflecting on this a lot lately. However, it is somewhat personally satisfying to note, that my writing over the years, have found acceptance with a niche group, albeit very small group of educated and aware segment of mumineen, and I can say this now on the basis of the feedback being received from them. I have been trying to synthesize the deeni knowledge acquired, with truths established through scientific discoveries and published material available on the Net. Here I would like to make it clear, that the Deeni knowledge is taken only from published sources and material (not from the haqiqat sabaks I am blessed to attend) For those who are really interested to know the depth and beauty of our Deeni knowledge,if you send me a mail request on my mail I/D - [email protected] I will be glad to forward you my Taffakur Talks , a very personal initiative as part of the 100th Milad Celebration of our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) I hope on getting that, you will be able to fully understand my contention. I have been writing on similar things, but others have succeeded because they have made a business model of the ancient truths and wisdom. Now coming back to the book referred by may young family friend - THE SECRET - Rhonda Byrne. She was a bit taken back, when I told her I had not heard of the book. So immediately after she left, I googled and got to have a peek inside the book. I will for ever remain indebted to my family friend, for before the Forward by the author there is a page containing the following : AS ABOVE, SO BELOW AS WITHIN, SO WITHOUT - The Emerald Tablet - Circa 3000 BC The law began in the beginning of the time. It has always been and will always be. This is the very thing we have been learning in 'sabaks' but it was news to me that it has been inscribed on a Tablet 5000 years ago. In her Forward Rhonda Byrne goes on to say that she has been grateful to her daughter for gifting her a century old book, at a time when she was facing her life's worst crisis, and this book provided THE SECRET and a burning desire to share the secret, consumed her. This led to the making of 120 hour documentary film THE SECRET. In her book 24 Amazing Teachers are featured, who by their work and writings, have shared their SECRET. Prentice Mulford (1834-1891) is regarded as the leader of New Thought Movement. Bob Bocher became famous for his 'Law of Attraction' All the 24 amazing Teachers featured in the book, have written books, and most all of them have their web pages. My personal quest, will be to find out what they have, which I do not know. In this way I will try to understand the problem that is vexing me. So let me start with the famous quote dated 5000 years ago. 'AS ABOVE, SO BELOW AS WITHIN, SO WITHOUT.' As my writings concerns mumineen, specially youngsters groping for answers, without divulging anything from the 'sabaks' but relying on published material, vaaz mubaraks, deeni publications and the Net, let me proceed to prove conclusively, that for a true seeker of I'lm, the answers are in our Deen. Everyone of you have heard of Syedna Hamid al- Din al -Kirmani (RA) I have written about his work, in one of my earlier blog. Now he is the one, who has clearly made the world understand the true meaning of Tawheed in the context of 'AS ABOVE, SO BELOW' Now this is what Henry Corbin has to say in his Book - 'History of Islamic Philosophy' 'Syedna Hamid-al- Din Kirmani (RA) (d.408H/1017 A.D.) has fully delineated the esoteric hierarchy. There is a celestial hierarchy (the hudoods above) and there is a terrestrial hierarchy (the hudoods below) which symbolizes with each other.' This than is the precise meaning, if there was ever one of the ancient wisdom. It is part of our Deen. It is there if you care to find. In his Book ' Thoughts are things' Prentice Mulford goes on to state : ' There belongs to every human being a higher

http://mindmints.blogspot.com/[email protected]

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self, and a lower self, a self or mind of spirit, which has been growing for ages, and a self of the body, which is thing of yesterday.' Now, if one cares to do tilawat of Nashihat of Syedi Sadik ali Saheb, one will find his repeated emphasizes on caring for the everlasting soul. ' Dunyani ni tu raghbat thi .....' simply superb. (I have translated a few stanzas, which can be found on my home page: www.hikmaah.com) Dr. Alex Loyd talks of 'healing codes' about cellular memories, about release of negative emotions. Nothing new except that they have succeeded in making a business model of ancient wisdom. I hope to look up on the Net on all the wisdom propounded by the rest of the 24 Amazing Teachers referred in the Book - The Secret, and try to find out, what they know, that I have not known by attending sabaks, and by my true seeking. I hope my writing will motivate youngsters in removing some of the misconceptions. An observation " Friends when you attend such lectures and healing sessions, do you carry mobiles with you, are you not all attention latching on to every word and when and when .............. I will leave it at that. All of you are so understanding and educated, I do will not have to spell out the details.

Article-93 # (THE SECRET - HEALING CODES)

In the previous post I had mentioned of Healing Codes and the Law of Attraction propounded by Dr. Alex Loyd and Dr. Ben Jonson. I looked up the Net for information and found some interesting facts, which I would like to share. A mention is made of the experiment conducted by Dr. Massaru Emoto, where he has shown conclusively how the power of words and vibrations can effect the water used in his photos of ice crystal http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tAvzsjcBtx8

I would recommend you to first see the video, before proceeding to read my article further. According to Dr. Alex it is very important that before every meal we should take cognizance of what we think, feel and say, as it will directly affect our body.

OUR HEALING CODE : Our awaliyakiram sahebs have always given hidayat to say BISMILLAH before partaking of meal, and ALHAMDOLLILAH at the end of the meal, but the secret - to derive maximum benefit, one should say it with awareness and a thankful heart. Before drinking water, one should recite the below ayat for maximum benefit for both body and soul.

Friends, if Dr. Massaru Emoto and Dr. Alex are called in to verify the power of the words and ayats uttered by a mumin, with full conviction and awareness, and mind you, this is the secret - conviction and awareness - the ice crystals photos, will surely reflect all positive and beneficial images. On the other hand if there is mere parrot recital, without the heart and mind in it - as is observed many a times ( doa bhi

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tAvzsjcBtx8

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padhi rahya chhe, message texting bhi tahi rahi chhe, vasana ni lajjat bhee aavi rahi chhe, matam ma haat bhee uthi rahya chhe, magar khya'l kayee beejij bajoo chhe) I can assure you friends, if this so, the ice crystals will surely show negative images. This is my gut feeling, and hope some young friend can take up this challenge and prove me wrong by scientific evidence. OUR HEALING CODE : In our belief system the other secret is this - who utters the word or doa. Eg: Aqa Moula (TUS) utters "Barakkallaho" and my uttering "Barakkallaho" are not the same. This has to be understood correctly. We do not need any experiment by Dr. Massaru to prove the above point. Aqa Moula's utterance of mere "Barakkallaho" has manifested into abundance in wealth, health, happiness, it has completely changed lives of thousands, for the better of this world and Akherat. You personally must have come across or may have heard about such transformations. So in our faith system, the blessed words, tasabih and ayats have very positive and enriching power, but at the same time, we believe that the power of this is manifested many more times, if Aqa Moula (TUS) or any other personage of piety utters it Even if an ordinary mumin like me does tilawat with awareness and conviction, the health and more important, the spiritual benefits will surely be there. I share my personal example, I am afflicted with OA and the problem is severe according to medical records, but Alhamdollilah I am active none the less. The secret - doing tilawat of a particular set of recitation, with cupped hands, b

lowing into the hand, and slowly moving the hand to the afflicted body parts. Each day with full conviction of the health benefit after namaz. But all this with full awareness, bringing the mind and heart into it, and being thankful, the last being the most important. In so doing the problem has not vanished and it never will, but I am able to live a quality life all the same - and for that I am thankful to Allah. In the next post I will be sharing with you more insight into OUR HEALING CODES. So the Healing Codes my friends are very much there in our Deen - our Deen is a HEALING CODE but one has to make a conscious effort.

Article-94 # (OUR DEEN IS A HEALING CODE)

After reading my earlier post, I think many of you may have been convinced that - OUR DEEN IS A HEALING CODE. Let me share with you further secrets. It is free, no registration, no downloads, just a little time and effort on your part. Experiments done by the Institute of Heart Maths with 28 trained Researches have conclusively proved that :

1. when the researchers felt gratitude, love and appreciation DNA responded by RELAXING and the strands unwound - the DNA became longer.

2. when the researchers felt anger, fear, frustration or stress, the DNA responded by 'tightening' up, It became shorter and switched off many of the DNA codes.

"http://www.csvibrationalwellness.com/CorrineDNAExp.htm INTERESTING. This led me to my quest that what best evokes love, gratitude, appreciation,all the positive energies. There are many innumerable doa mubaraks which help in evoking the feelings of gratitude, love, peace, joy and appreciation and help us in avoiding frustration, stress. Regular tilawat can help in transforming the harmful cellular memories - heart junk as termed by Dr. Alex into positive feelings of love, happiness, joy, peace. Let me just share with you friends a part of two doa mubaraks of Imam Ali Zayn al Abidin (SA). The secret Healing Code in our Deen is that spirituality deals with the practical and lived reality of a very personal relationship with man and his Creator - an intimate yearning of the soul for completion and perfection.

http://www.csvibrationalwellness.com/CorrineDNAExp.htm

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ALLAH becomes the focus of all our acts. We start with the premise that we are not perfect, we have to seek perfection.

(Doa Mubaraka : A part from - His supplication in Morning and Evening ) 10. We rise in the morning in Thy grasp Thy kingdom and authority contain us and Thy Will embrace us We move about by Thy command and turn this way and that through Thy governing 11. We own nothing of the affair except what Thou hast decreed and nothing of the good except what Thou hast given 12. This is a fresh new day, over us a ready witness. If we do good How stress free one would feel, if he rightly believes that 'we own nothing of the affair, except what Allah has decreed' The secret is to melt the 'I' and just feel peace and bliss in honestly flowing with the flow of things, as they unfold. Embrace good, embrace joy embrace laughter and learn to shun all that is negative. Sharing another doa mubarak. Here the 'abd' seeks refuge and protection, from all the negative traits, believing with full conviction that it is ALLAH and HE alone, who can protect and safeguard us, but at the same time, upon tilawat we are becoming aware of all the negative traits. For seeking refuse from immoral qualities and blameworthy acts his Doa Mubarak

O Allah, I seek refuge in Thee from the agitation of craving. the violence of wrath, the domination of envy, the frailty of patience, the lack of contentment, surliness of character urgency of passion, the disposition of vehemence, following caprice, opposing guidance, the sleep of heedlessness, undertaking the toilsome, preferring falsehood over truth, persisting in sin There are many such Supplications and Munaja't which brings one near to ALLAH. In one Tasbih on Allah's Glorification, in all 23 ayat's Imam Ali Zayn al Abidin (SA) starts with 'Glory to Allah' for

munificence and blessings. A literary masterpiece, which evokes sublime spirituality and feeling of love, abundance and nearness.

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THE SECRET CODE is to understand TAWHID in totality. Let me share with you some insights acquired. The numerous Doa Mubarak, supplications and munaja'ts help us in affirming - and this is most important - affirmation with full conviction that 'There is no goodness, but in Allah. There is no repentance, but by Allah Grace. There is no gratitude but through Allah. There is no knowledge but in Allah. Now in relation to the negative attitude - the Affirmations 'There is no evil but in me There is no pride but in myself There is no impatience, but in my own ego There is none ignorant, but me There is no hate but in myself ' (Book Ref: The Psalms of Islam - Al- Sahifat Al- Kamilat Al-Sajjadiyya) So the SECRET CODE of our Deen is the perception of our own self in relation to ALLAH. In the following narration, you will surely find the Secret Code. Let us travel back to the BEGINNING. In the BEGINNING there were three central characters. NABI ADAM - the first created and Ma Haw'wa, and IBLIS - the one who had done Iba'dat for eons. As we know all the three disobeyed ALLAH. Nabi Adam (SA) and Ma Haw'wa were tricked by Iblis, into disobeying ALLAH. I am not going into details, every one knows. IBLIS also disobeyed. All the three disobeyed ALLAH. But the Wrath of Allah for disobedience, was very severe for Iblis, but not so, for Nabi Adam (SA) and Ma Haw'wa, who were forgiven for their transgression Have you ever reflected on why it was so. There may be a hundred thousand reasons, for we know not what Allah Knows.

But here is one of the SECRET CODE. Let me share it with you friends. When Nabi Adam (SA) and Ma Haw'wa disobeyed ALLAH they repented "Our Lord we have wronged ourselves... ( Quran Ayah 7:23) In contrast, IBLIS - who is the personification of ego, heedlessness, self centerdness and misguidance said "Now because Thou hast led me astray" (Quran Ayah 7:16) My journey to understand the SECRET CODES will continue. I need the support and encouragement from my readers. I will have to read more about the remaining Amazing Teachers and their secrets (Book The SECRET by Rhonda Byrne) I am indebted to Rhonda Byrne also. But this much is certain my friends, you will agree with me that if we look 'inwards' into our Deen - the Secret Codes are very much there and most importantly, they are not SECRET. We have to change our perspective. Let us rediscover our own DEEN in the light of the recent scientific, spiritual and philosophical developments.

Article-95 # (HEALING CODE - ABUNDANCE IN OUR DEEN)

ABUNDANCE : Think abundance, feel abundance, BELIEVE abundance and surely it will manifest itself in your life. So says one of the pioneer of New Age Thinking- Robert Collier (1885-1950) in his famous Book - THE SECRET OF THE AGES.

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His Secret : 3 steps to call upon your inner power - The Genie of your Mind First and foremost : To realize that you have the power. Next to know want you want and finally To center your thoughts upon it with the singleness of purpose. In order to achieve the best results he advices that we need to practice. Now the question is what is ABUNDANCE ? Is it material wealth ? All the creature comforts, or is it something very different. You must be knowing many who have all the material wealth, but are they really happy, are they living an enriching life ? Are they living a contended life ?

I quote another New Age Amazing Teacher Eckhart Tolle who writes in his famous Book : THE POWER OF NOW - ' those who have not found their true wealth, which is radiant joy of Being, and the deep unshakable peace that comes with it, are beggars, even if they have great material wealth.' They are looking outside for scraps of pleasure and fulfillment, for validation, security or love, while they have a treasure within that not only includes all those things but infinitely greater than any thing, the world can offer. As I read the above lines, which started to slowly sink in I found the answer to why Moulaya Raja saheb of Morbi, who made a living by a very humble profession of weaving cloth, threw the jewels back into the well, that came in his 'dol' (water bucket) not once but all the three times, when he intended to fetch water to perform 'wudhu'. He threw back the jewels because he had the true wealth - the joy of Being. He could think abundance, feel abundance, and enjoy abundance, and he did not look outside for scraps of fulfillment and validation. This is the secret of abundance that our DEEN has to offer to true seekers of bliss, prosperity and plenty. Molaya Raja was fully focused on the Power of Now - he needed water for wudhu, as the magrib time was ending, and he knew fully well that the real wealth and abundance, came from 'ibadat' of Allah at the determined waqt. Water was what he needed and water was what he got.

And as to the true wealth and abundance, history bears witness, that the abundance experienced by Molaya Raja, manifested in due time in the form of nine 'ratans' (jewels) of exquisite and resplendent spirituality, humanity, piety and learning - we are familiar with their glorious history - Badre'en Doat kirams. The first and foremost amongst them Syedna Ismail Badruddin Moula (RA) had immense material wealth, but his true seeking of abundance came from seeking I'lm - staying six months each year at Ahmadabad in the hazrat of Dai uz Zaman, and spending the remaining six months at Jamnagar looking after his business. The true meaning of abundance was given by him, and as conveyed on several occasion to his mansoos Syedna Abdul Taiyyeb Zakiuddin Moula (RA)

AWESOME ABUNDANCE ! Not great material wealth as stated rightly by Ekhart Tolle, but the joy of being - the joy of serving DAI UL MUTLAQ - WHO IS TRUE ABUNDANCE. Abundance is in his 'gulami' as repeatedly stressed by Sayedi Sadikali Saheb. I may or may not be possessing any material wealth, it is inconsequential, but I carry within me abundant love of my Moula (TUS) that in it self is ABUNDANCE. Each day is a joy for me , each day is a celebration, each day a thankful day. I feel happy, I feel blessed, and the gloss and glamor of material possessions, does not effect me.

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Those who try to make a big show of their material wealth, those who are only self indulgent, self possessive, self centered - I really pity them, for they are seeking validation, they are feeling insecure, they are feeling incomplete. As we celebrate the 100th Milad Mubarak of our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) let us also throw back all that is transitory and seek that which is everlasting, and if our seeking is focused, the joy and bliss of Abundance in life will surely enrich us.

Article-96 # ('no mind' in Namaz - a natural state of felt oneness with Allah)

During a recent Skype chat with my niece, who is doing a course in Middle Eastern Study at SOAS - London (http://soas.ac.uk) the chat veered on my earlier blog where I had quoted Eckhart Tolle. I always admire and have high respect for our highly motivated and educated youngsters, who have been studying at various Colleges and Universities around the world, who are well read, have opportunity to come in contact and assimilate with different cultures,and thought processes. So when my niece strongly recommended that I should buy the book, I did her bidding and when the bookseller refused to give the normal 10% discount, stating that the Book is in constant demand, I became sure that it is worth possessing.

ABOUT THE BOOK: THE POWER OF NOW - Eckhart Tolle over 2 million copies sold carrying rave reviews from important personalities and thinkers and now available in thirty languages. Gujrati edition titled ' Shakti vartaman ni' For all those who feel that there are 'nobody' in this vast set up of the Universe, Eckhart conveys a very potent and powerful message in the very beginning of the Book. His quote : YOU ARE HERE TO ENABLE THE DIVINE PURPOSE OF THE UNIVERSE TO UNFOLD. THAT IS HOW IMPORTANT YOU ARE. I felt myself a few inches taller as I read it, I am no push over but an important cog in the great churning. Hope you also on reading this must be feeling the same. After reading this quote of his, who will not feel important, and he backs up his contention with hard facts. The hard fact : that a single human cell measuring 1/1000 of an inch across contain instructions within its DNA that would fill 1000 books of 600 pages each. Simply mind blowing !! I am made up of a trillion of cells. Let me share some spiritual truths, which I have had the good fortune to learn in 'sabaks' but in his book Ekhard has forcefully and with telling effect put 'upfront' in the most simplest to understand way. Eckhart is said to have experienced spiritual realization, one night after his twenty-ninth birthday. I know many youngsters may already have read the Book. What is my point in writing about the Book - it is precisely that to convey that OUR DEEN if followed in true spirit is more enriching and sublime. Here I am taking help of Eckhart, I am deeply indebted to him, for by the end of my post, the readers will be fully understand what i want to convey. In the introduction Eckhart states to the followers of ancient religions, that there is no need to go elsewhere for the truth, his mission is to show you how to go more deeply into what you already have. Some random thoughts gleaned from the Book. ' The word enlightenment conjures up the idea of some super human accomplishment, and the ego likes to keep it that way, but it is simply your natural state of felt oneness with Being.'

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We mumineen are blessed to have a MOULA whose very presence, energizes and enlightens many to feel the oneness with Being. Each year during 'asr' on Ashura, this feeling of oneness becomes profound and intense. I am sure many of my readers may have experienced this sublime feeling. According to Eckhart, compulsive thinking, this incessant mental noise prevents you from finding the realm of inner stillness, that is inseparable from the Being. This is because the voice (your thoughts) belong to your conditioned mind , which is the result of all your past history as well as the collective cultural mind set you inherited. He suggests that you start 'watching the thinker' so that the higher level of consciousness becomes activated. A very novel concept propounded by him is that when you learn to control your thoughts - the incessant chatter, when it subsides, you experience a discontinuity in the mental stream - a gap of 'no mind' At first, the gaps will be short, a few seconds perhaps, but gradually they will become longer. When these gaps occur, you feel a certain stillness and peace inside you. This then is the beginning of your natural state of felt oneness with the Being, which is usually obscured by the mind. With practice, the sense of stillness and peace will deepen. In fact, there is no end to its depth. You will also feel a subtle emanation of joy arising from deep within: the joy of being.

As you go deeply into this realm of 'no mind' you realize the state of pure consciousness. In that state, you feel your own presence with

such intensity and such joy of thinking, all emotions, your physical body, as well as the whole external world becomes really

insignificant, in comparison to it.

Now this over two million copies Best Selling Author advices some practical steps in everyday life to achieve this 'no mind' gap. Here are

a few of the simple routine steps :

##Every time you walk up and down the stairs in your house or place of work, pay close attention to every step, every movement, even your breathing. Be totally present. ## Or when you wash your hands, pay attention to all the sense perceptions associated with the activity: the sound and feel of water, the movement of your hand, the scent of the soap and so on. ## Or when you get into the car, after you close the door, pause for a few seconds and observe the flow of your breath. Now to all my readers I put forward a very simple and basic question. Offering Namaz on 'waqt' with discontinuity in the mental stream, by being totally present, shutting out the incessant chatter of the thoughts, is a much better practice to become enlightened, to achieve the natural state of oneness with the Being Is it not my friends ? It surely is, but we have not given it the thought - 'ghar ki murgi dal barabar !' Thank you Eckhard Tolle for telling us that there is no need to go elsewhere for the truth. OUR DEEN makes us not only enlightened but also nurtures us for emancipation. But first things first - switch off the mobiles. It amuses me to see many holding their hand sets immediately after 'salam', some go further, casting a fast glance between 'ruku' and 'sujood' at the blip on their hand set during 'sunnat / vasek namaz' !! I fervently hope that those who have cared to read my blog will surely find truth in it. To my young friends living in college campuses and professionals, who surely may have read THE POWER OF NOW it will be a revelation.

Article-97 # (CONSCIOUS DEATH)

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Eckhart Tolle : As long as the egoistic mind is running your life, you cannot truly be at ease; you cannot be at peace or fulfilled except for brief intervals when you obtain what you wanted, when a craving has just been fulfilled. Since ego is a derived sense of self, it needs to identify with external things. The most common ego identifications have to do with possessions, social status, recognition etc: None of this is YOU. Do your find this frightening ? You will know it at the latest, when you feel death approaching. Death is the stripping away of all that is not you. The secret of life is to "die before you die"- and find that there is no death. Interesting ! Has Eckhart read or come to understand the nasihat of Syedi Sadik ali saheb, and if you care to read his nashihat, it is a treasure trove of many such Spiritual truths in most endearing and easy to understand language. Just 2 examples in the context of the above. Syedi Sadik ali saheb states so eloquently : 'gar maut ne samjo to', kunji (the key) chhe nazati ni tehqiq yeh ma'din chhe ruhani haya'ti ni' ; ">'marvana agaari tu' eh bhai mari jaje

logo kahe jivto chhe, ehvu tu kari jage' I am sure Echart Tolle has not come across the nashihat of Syedi Sadik ali saheb, but has been blessed with the Spiritual Truths. In his best selling book THE POWER OF NOW he is merely showing us how to go more deeply and to understand the truth contained in our DEEN. If one is taking 'haqiqat' sabaks they will find it more interesting and enriching to read his book. ## The pain that you create now is always some form of nonacceptance, some form of unconscious resistance to what is. OUR DEEN our all encompassing 'shariat' teaches us to accept and stop resisting in myriad of ways, so that we may overcome the primordial trait that resulted in our falling from grace, in the fist place. ## Resentment, hatred, self pity, guilt, anger, depression, jealousy, even the slightest irritation are all forms of pain. OUR DEEN for this very reason to make us free of pain, teaches us kana'at - santosh and tawaakul - bharoso on Allah and our Moula (TUS). ## Power over others is weakness disguised as strength. TRUE POWER IS WITHIN AND IT IS AVAILABLE TO YOU NOW. OUR DEEN : What other better living example than that of Imam Husain (SA) mocking at Shimr, laughing right on his face, as the layeen sits with 'butha khanzar' on his chest. Seemingly all powerful, but in truth utterly weak and vanquished. It is this power within that made Imam Husain mock Shimr. Aqa Moula (TUS)referring from the most eloquent 'shadat'bayan of Syedi Abdulkader Hakimuddin Moula (RA) says

هىالي عبد القادر حنين الديي قس فرهاوسس ؛ فضحل احلسني هي ذيالفعلت

اهام حسني ع م لعني مشرًا ْافعل سي هٌسىاالككا

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Aqa Moula (TUS) farmavey chhe ke Imam Husain Shimr na samne ‘hasa’ ane farmu ke tu uth mara sina upar thi – mane sajdo deva de' shimr ne uthvooj paroo – this is the true power within – The Power of Now – a’ waqt ma sajdo devano chhe – taru khanzar nahi chale – just give it a thought Imam Husain is all alone – shimr sina par khanzar layee ne savar chhe – magar haqiqat ma Imam Husain jane cheh ke a’ banu ummaya ni weakness chhe, which is disguised as strength. So each year we mumineen assemble together on the 'nida' of our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) to mourn and remember the 'shadat' of Imam Husain (SA) and in so doing we reaffirm the POWER OF NOW - the knowledge that Forms are born to die, we are aware of the eternal underneath the forms. We know and affirm that 'nothing real can ever be threatened'. Muharram 1432 H is just a few weeks away, and every one is eagerly awaiting to hear the nida of Dai e Husain to experience once again, the reaffirmation of the POWER OF NOW. Eckhard Tolle goes on to state that, when this is your state of Being, how can you not succeed ? You have succeeded already. We mumineen know for sure, for our Moula has on several occasions, emphatically conveyed that we need not worry. No doubt self help books, those written by truly awakened masters and spiritual savants, are precious, but in the end, the effectiveness of the teaching is relative to the reader, who reads such books, and applies his understanding. There are various methods of acquiring knowledge, one such is known as Socratic Method, the other is Philosophical method, but all these are very painstaking and laborious processes of acquiring awakening, and everyone is not competent to graps and understand. The sure shot method with little effort and maximum positive result is what the mystics call the attachment with purified and perfect individual. OUR MOULA.

'If there is a desire for union in your head, O Hafiz

You must become like clay in the craftsman's hand' In truth OUR DEEN has made us mumineen that supple clay in the hands of the master craftsman - OUR MOULA. THE POWER OF NOW has done wonders to my understanding the Spiritual Truths, but this much I want to convey to my young well read, educated friends that OUR DEEN is more deep, more refreshing, more rejuvenating. I have been trying to convey this message in my writings, how far I have succeeded I know not. I leave it upon my readers to make the judgment. How I wish that in this 100th Milad Mubarak year, the great spiritual and literary works of our savants, awliya kiram sahebs, in this internet driven age, find a niche and become guiding posts for all those seekers of truth around the world. Each day I see my posts, being assessed around the world, comprising of diverse cultural and ethnic population around the world, in countries like Morocco - Switzerland - China - Germany. The stats are a source of motivation and satisfaction.

Article-98 # (The isha'raats in my Moula's kalam and salaam)

The isha'raats in my Moula's kalam and salaam OCCASION : Bayan ul ikhtetam of Aqa Moula (TUS)at the concluding session of Imtehan-us-sanavi 1431H at Surat PLACE : Evan e Jamea filled to the capacity. DATE : 11TH Sherullah - video relay Sharing my thoughts and feelings as I witnessed the video recording of Aqa Moula (TUS)slowly appearing in the 'gurfah mubaraka' of the Evan e Jamia and in the context of the riwayat of moulana Jabir (RA) getting the sharaf of ziyarat of Rasulallah (SA) traveling from Kufa to Medina, in the 'noor' emanating from the raised finger of Moulana Ali (SA) MOULA as I witnessed the gentle sway of your hand all around your all pervading and spiritually enriching gaze the jostling multitude of mumineen below the heart rendering cries MOULA ! MOULA ! MOULA ! your becoming the object of nostalgia

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and desire the ever ascending motion of raised hands and reaching out the cascade of emotions, the flowing tears,

outpouring of love the undying desire of mumineen to be engulfed in your noorani nazar the forceful yet controlled

pendulum swings of mumineen at the far ends of the Evan the composed, controlled grounding of the first line of sada't kiram sahebs all gazing up in contemplation and outpouring of love............. The noor emanating from Moulana Ali's finger took Jabir to Medina your appearance at the gurfah mubaraka and your salami Moula took me back to the beginning of the time took me back to my fall from grace as I fell from the celestial pleroma engulfed in darkness, murk and gloom as I fell and repented I must have also looked up longingly at Moula A'shir gazing down at me with wishful eyes myself hurtling down, jostling amongst the fallen souls but all the same looking up longingly at the reassuring and ever radiant gaze of my Moula who with the wave of his hands in salami with no words uttered but in 'clear writing' for me to understand and feel says: ' I am doing the tadbeer just keep me for ever in your heart and your gaze I will surely bring you to me !!

Article-99 # (The Isha'raats in my Moula's Munaja't Sharifa)

In continuation of my earlier blog entitled ' Isha'raats in my Moula's kalaam and salaam' and primarily upon receiving the baraka'ts emanating from 'ahyah of Laylatul Qdr - the deedar sharaf (live video relay) and the spiritual blessings from the tilawat of Munjat Sharifa

' Adooka Adooka Zalzala'li' - 1431 H I am making a honest attempt to conceptualize and understand the 'isha'raat' and hidden haqaiq, alluded to in the Abya't Sharifa 17

With the beginning of Al- Multaqa in 1399 H and the historic restoration of JAMIA UL ANWAR the onset of the 15th Century Hijra has witnessed unprecedented rise in the 'community consciousness' and understanding of mumineen. It is unfolding in quantum leaps of creative emergence. Just look back a few decades and one will surely realize, what a transformation it has been. In this BURHANI DAUR a glorious epoch in the resplendent Fatemi history, the brilliance of understanding the 'isha'raats' and comprehending the haqaiq - the hidden truths has permeated to all 'holons' of the community. There has been an exponential growth. I have used the term 'holon' as it is most appropriate and if readers have read my earlier blog http://mindmints.blogspot.com/2010/06/brief-history-of-everything-ken-wilber.html the meaning and significance of what I want convey will be better understood.

http://mindmints.blogspot.com/2010/06/brief-history-of-everything-ken-wilber.html

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It is for this reason I presume that Aqa Moula (TUS) of late has been conveying hidayats in isha'raats. The community consciousness has risen to such heights of transcendence, that Aqa Moula (TUS) has to make 'isha'raats' and every one understands, gets infused and motivated. A layman like me with limited knowledge and grasping power, also receives the baraka't of making an attempt to understand the hidden haqaiq and isha'raats. It is only because of my Moula's karam and ehsaan. Syedna Taher Saifuddin Moula (RA) in his most endearing and touching Nashihat - 'biradar tu..' goes on to convey ' samaj jo yeh isha'rat ne – ne lejo bisharat ne ' This hidayat of Muqqadas Taher Saifuddin Moula (RA) has flowered in full bloom, resplendent in all hues- it is spring time of community consciousness. Awareness and understanding permeating all the strata of mumineen sociey. In the context of the above, let me share with you my 'taffakur' of Abya't Sharifa 15 and 16. As the subject of this blog is - isha'raats' I will not take recourse to explain in detail, as I am confident, that by merely making pointed references, the readers will understand and more important, they will be adding to the understanding by their own reflections and tafaakur. So if you all start sharing your thoughts, this may well turn out to be a evolving blog - spiritual transcendence. I have incorporated my taffakur of Abya't Sahrifa 15 and 16 in the image below. I am indebted to my young friend Bhai Murtaza Attari for giving his time and expertise, and helping me translate my concepts into computer graphic design.

Now on tilawat of the Abya't Sharifa 15 and 16 again and again I began to reflect. In Abya't sharifa 15 Aqa Moula (TUS) emotes on two 'sujoods' the one by Rasulallah (SA) soft mud (water and mud) and the other by his grandson Imam Husain (SA) on the dry burning sands. In Abya't Sharifa 16 the zikr of sujood by Nabi (SA) on Laylatul Qdr in water and the sujood of Imam Husain (SA) in blood on Ashura. In Abya't sharifa 17 Aqa Moula (TUS) alludes to the hidden haqaiq, that both the sujood of Nabi (SA) in muddy water and that of Imam Husain (SA) in blood soaked burning sand, will for ever protect mumineen till day of Qayamat from enemies of

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Deen, at the same time both the 'sujoods' will for ever quench the thirst of the true seekers of Ilm and all those who are seeking emancipation from this earthly bondage. In this Abya't sharifas Aqa Moula (TUS) has made effective use of opposite words: water - blood / cool mud - burning sand / night 'Layl' - afternoon 'asr' If you study the image, what is the first thing that strikes you. The white circle represents an un impregnable fortress (hisne haseen) that keeps the mumineen protected from the region of tenbrosity - a region of darkness and gloom, a region of malefic ether causing disaster, harm and evil in human society. All evil thoughts and deeds, all that is negative and restraining to the ascent of human mind and soul, find refuge in this dark space of microscopic vibration. The white space provides immunity and protection from the egocentric tendencies that tend to divide us and make us selfish and possessive. The sujood of Raulallah (SA) on Laylatul Qdr and the sujood of Imam Husain (SA) on the day of Ashura has manifested into a sheath (Armour) at the same time an all embracing, permeating, enfolding positive spiritual force, a field of subtle energy, offering protection and at the same time, energizing the mumineen 'nafs' to attain higher and subtler hierarchies. On my reflecting on the sujood of Rasuallah (SA) in soft mud on the Night of Qdr. Mud and water reminds of 'ibda' - creation. Surah Al-A'raf (Ayah 12 ending) ' and him (Adam) you created from clay' So the sojood of Rasulallah (SA) on Laylatul Qdr signifies to me the creation of the protective sheath - the first evolving - and the sheath goes on to become an un impregnable fortress ( hisne haseen) with the sujood of Imam Husain (SA) on the burning sands of Karbala. It is for this very reason that Aqa Moula (TUS) emphatically and in all miqaats tells mumineen to remember Moula Husain (SA) - ' abkika moulayal Husain - afdika molayal Husain - moulaya moulaya Husain' 'Mumineen Imam Husain upar tame ek an'soon nikalso to' maroo kam thayi gayoo' Which in effect means that now there is no fear of malefic forces, a mumin comes under the protective sheath? My reflections on sujood of Rasulallah (SA) in water and sujood of Imam Husain (SA) in blood. Life begins in water and blood is the life giver. So the protective sheath began on the night of the Qdr and when Imam Husain (SA) was martyred in blood drenched sujood on the day of Ashura, the protective sheath became impregnable till the day of Qayamat. In the explanatory note in Abya't Sharifa 17 Aqa Moula (TUS) says that Awaliya Kiram sahebs have ensued that only mumineen have been blessed to receive the ma'refat (know the significance and import) of both Laylatul Qdr and Ashura.

Article-100 # (Barakatul Faizul Mawaid Burhaniyah)

A STORY - LUCKY ME This story is a result of talking with a host of family and friends, not only in my city, but in many other cities and towns, over phone and on chats. There are facts deftly intertwined with imagination - I have tried to answer some of the questions being raised, the niyat is that it will provide my Readers with valuable insights and at the same time, the joy of reading. Central characters – My self - Asgar aged 50 years running own business and maintaining a study income and providing a decent standard of living to my family, and having a weakness for Tandoori Indian dishes. Wife: Rabab aged 47 years. Home maker and an excellent cook. Murtaza: Aged 23 years studying for his MBA and a lover of Fusion Foods.

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Nooruddin: Aged 18 years in his final Year at School, has yet to decide on his future studies, has not given a thought , but of one thing he is sure, his love for Continental and Mediterranean food. SO OURS IS A FAMILY WHERE FOOD PLAYS A CENTRAL PART IN OUR DAY TO DAY LIVING. It is Sunday and our family is enjoying a sumptuous dinner of: Pumpkin Risotto with Pickle Oil Ice cream Hummus Bil Lahm and Kebab Joojeh Tuwar pulao – palidoo – the favorite of my wife, and after toiling for the entire Sunday morning over the above 3 dishes, we as a family are very considerate to her, and do not expect her to make the elaborate Murgh Ki Raan where the making of galouti mixture for stuffing of Chicken, which requires the mixture to pass through the Mincer thrice is indeed a very tiring and time consuming process. But my sons have made it clear that coming Sunday she has to make it or else they will be eating out – a notice which makes my poor wife shudder, to think of the costs of eating out. I know the threat of eating out will work - come Sunday, and we will have Murgh ki Raan in our Thaal. SO DEAR READERS THIS IS OUR FAMILY. Now cut to Jumoa namaz two days back, where Janab Saheb appraised us of the salient points, the nitty gritty and most important the ‘barakats’ emanating for the individual, the family and the entire community at large from the ‘ FAIZ UL MAWAID BURHANIYAH’ He explained to all of us the a’ala niyaat and the significance of it, the haqiqats behind it are many , he said, which we fail to comprehend. It is best known to our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) and his Mansoos (TUS) who has started this very unique and far reaching initiative, first started in London. Aqa Moula (TUS) speedy recovery is miraculous and when Janab saheb said that come Muharram and Insa Allah we will be blessed to hear the shadaat of Imam Husain (SA) from the Imami Takht once again, these words brought tears in many an eyes, and I for one was convinced. I made immediate enquiries at the Mawaid centre and came to know that on payment of Rs: 4,600/- per month our family of 4 will be delivered a basket of wholesome nutritious Bohri food, and on further enquiry was pleased to know that the khidmatguzars are putting in a lot of effort, and the niyat is that out of 100 baskets – 60 will be paid for and 40 will be free baskets. Great concept I thought.

But knowing my family and specially my two sons I found the task very daunting. Worry was writ all over me when I returned home from office, and my wife Rabab immediately noticed it, but was kind enough not to push the issue in the fore front. Saturday also she found me in a very sullen and brooding nature and I confided her the problem that was perplexing me. She had a few encouraging words for me as I left for office. It was decided between us that after Sunday dinner we will bring this ‘basket’ subject before the children. I wanted to put my case very convincingly, and being a stickler for details, Saturday was spent on reflecting - Googling on the subject of sharing food. Many hours of searching resulted in one convincing article by Dr. Phil Birtie – the Role of Food in Empowering Communities ( Refer to my previous Blog post) There is much to food than mere physical benefits of nutrition and health. A good point I felt. Encouraged by this lead I read more and more. I found out that sharing same food is a means of bridging the gaps between same members of the community, which has arisen because of different socio economic conditions. The seeming disconnect between the affluent

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class and the marginalized class of the same community – we are brothers all - 'mara DEEN na farzando' so lovingly referred by Aqa Moula (TUS) - he is our Bawa Shafiq - he is doing the tadbeer for our 'ma'ad' - emancipation – than why so much disconnect. It pains to see people so unconcerned at the plight of their fellow mumineen etc: Such thoughts made me fully engrossed, so much so, that I found difficulty in sleeping. Luckily for me as I was tossing and turning and try to understand the truths behind this unique ‘mohim’ and in order to find some solace and peace of mind, I took up to do tilawat of Munajaat sharifa 1432H

And started reading it, some thing told me an answer may be found here. As I read along I came upon the following Aby’at Sahrifa – EUREKA !! HERE WAS THE ANSWER I WAS LOOKING FOR

As I turned the page the following Aby'at Sharifa made me more convinced.

A silent doa for my Aqa Moula (TUS) and his Mansoos A'li Qdr Muffadal Saifuddin Moula (TUS) escaped my lips and I went off to sleep.Next morning (Sunday) I got up fresh and rejuvenated and braced up for the day with a light toast and tea breakfast. Rabab also busied herself in the kitchen, as we were going to have a sumptuous dinner of Pumpkin Risotto – Humus Bil Lahm – Kebab Joojeh the ingredients for which could not be had in ordinary market store, so after quick bath drove out to the far away Spenser Specialty food outlet. On reaching there, the shop assistant told me that for pita breads I will have to wait for an hour, as fresh stock was being

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awaited. Under the circumstances I had no other alternative but to just chill out – so I headed straight to across the street Barista and ordered Hazelnut Mocha and Chocolate Chip Muffins. One hour is a long, long time, and it was early morning, there were hardly any customers, and amidst tranquil surrounding I drifted back and started reflecting on the Abyaat Sharifas, which had provided so much solace last night. Let me share my reflections - Dear Readers - if you find some erroneous thinking on my part, do correct me, I will be deeply indebted. Abyaat Sharifa 71 – Aqa Moula (TUS) expresses that there are countless desires (niyaat) which he longs to be fulfilled ….. ke jehni kadar k'um chhe – ehne baland karoo. We mumineen are all DEEN na farzando of our beloved Bawa Shafiq – we are all ‘baland qadar’ in that sense – hope my Readers agree - than what does Aqa Moula imply by saying that ‘ qadar k’um chhe ehne baland karoo’ Spiritually we are all the same, but in certain section of the affluent society a wrong perception has taken deep roots based on purely materialistic outlook – the yardstick of success is wealth – you are counted and seen by the car – the house you own and the latest mobile and other gadgets you flaunt etc: Much can be written, but to make the point, just making broad references. So is it not that by sharing same food – the social beneficial effects are many, the widening gap – the disconnect in bridged? What say you dear Readers. Is my reasoning faulty? Please correct me then? The FAIZ UL MAWAID BURHANIYAH is a most important initiative of leveling the ever widening chasm. Agreed? O K let me proceed. Abyaat Sharifa 74 - ALLAH ! Do help those who help their brethren with love and affection in overcoming the difficulties of day to day living and make good his brothers shortcomings. Here Aqa Moula (TUS) is blessing those who come forward – those who are enjoying the best of material comforts and good life – to come forward and help those of their marginalized mumineen brothers. They have the world, they are self sufficient but they are still in need of mu’asaat (help) and this help only Moula and Moula alone can give as a boon. For M’aad we will not need a Ferrari - a Hublot Euro BB but our Aqa Moula’s doa Mubarak – his doa Mubarak will infuse us with spirituality – humanity – love for our fellow mumineen brethren – it will make us walk the ‘siraat’ with joy and abundance resulting from sharing – in this case sharing the same food that my fellow mumin bhai in shukr is so happy to have with his family – it has eased him of financial burden also but the important underlining message is – WE ARE ALL ONE !! So it is a Win Win situation for both the giver and the receiver. As I was sipping my Hazelnut Mocha across the table I found a copy of Sunday Telegraph, 11th Sept: 2011 and having more time in hand, I took it up and glanced at the Front Page. MY EUREKA MOMENT AGAIN ! I read with interest the headline story – ‘ Osama gone, hunger gnaws’ by K.P.Nayar The ‘Food Stamp’ Programme cleverly renamed ‘ Supplement Nutrition Assistant Programme’ (SNAP) The growing number of Americans 46 million and ever growing - their plight – how they are being looked upon by other affluent Americans, made an interesting reading.

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I immediately called for a Note Pad and Pen from the counter, and noted down excerpts, which you can read, and if you so desire, the entire News Report, by clicking on the below link. https://docs.google.com/document/d/1aRgl3UIVwZn2C7vUNXBu9wZQ6LD8DMXio_zroKBDXb8/edit?hl=en_US I am confident that after reading it, specially American mumineen and all those in the Western countries, will see the immense benefits of FAIZ UL MAWAID BURHANIYAH How I wish some mumineen associated with the Press Organizations can file a report on the on going ohbat. I received a call that my pitta breads have arrived, so I left Barista to collect it, at the same time feeling more confident to lay out the facts of the case more purposefully, after dinner, when I will be talking ‘basket’ with my grown up sons !! Those who have been following the story closely may be feeling exited to know what happens after the Sunday sumptuous dinner. As for my self to be honest, although my wife Rabab had made excellent Kebab Joojeh and other items on the Thal, I could not enjoy as much as my son Murtaza and Noorudin, who were relishing every dish. As a fond father, looking at them enjoying so much, I was feeling a little sad to broach the ‘thali’ subject, but was determined all the same, knowing my wife Rabab supported me whole heartedly. It was crunch time – dinner was over, there was palpable tension building up inside me and suddenly there was POWER CUT. It was in reality a blessing in disguise. It had rained steadily in the evening, so the weather was cool. I had replayed the scene many times in my mind earlier in the afternoon. My taking up the subject for discussion, finding Murtaza telling me – ‘ sorry Abba – we can discuss it later I have a project to complete ‘ the younger Noorudin as if on cue standing up and walking off to his room to watch TV. Multiple scenes played out in mind. Those who are parents of growing up children can well empathize with my condition. The POWER CUT proved to be a blessing – good food - cool breeze – family bonhomie on Sunday evening, motivated me to take up the ‘thali’ subject. I will not bother you up with all the details, some of which I have already written about – I found my sons in rapt attention – was a miracle working out. Not a word. Rabab encouraged by the silence response told us how she would love to share the same food with the family of Amina. Now Amina was her childhood friend, both went to school together in Lunavada, and from my wife I had heard many childhood stories of my wife always being in awe of her dear friend, who was smart, intelligent, helpful – once my wife started, she would go and on …… However, two years back Aquilbhai who was a very successful businessman was struck with a paralytic stroke while at office, as a result of which his entire body was immobilized. In short the world of Amina and her son Hakim who was of same as my Noorudin and both were school buddies, went into a tailspin. As Aquilbhai was running his supply business single handedly, as expected business suffered, creditors started knocking at their door, debtors started playing truant, medical Bills started piling. Aquilbhai died thereafter living behind a family who much against their wishes, started to become depended on ‘muvasaat’ Now dear Readers – the above circumstances are a fact, only other things are fictitious to protect the identity of the family. In my long years of ‘reaching out’ I have come face to face with so many such families.

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1aRgl3UIVwZn2C7vUNXBu9wZQ6LD8DMXio_zroKBDXb8/edit?hl=en_US

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Here I would I like to recall the resilience (khuddari) of one mumin bhai. I came to know of his plight after his wife was diagnosed with Cancer, and piling medical Bills and running about for treatment, completely drained out his financial capacity. He removed his son, who was very intelligent and smart from a good school were the fees were high. I came to know about it and approached him to see if I could mobilize some funds for the schooling. In his own words – ‘Asgarbhai shukran, but let me bear my own cross’ Tears swelled in my eyes, and I felt so humbled that there are such mumineen in this world. On that day frankly I felt proud to be born a mumin. Was Aqa Moula (TUS) referring to such mumineen in his Munajaat Sahrifa 1432H – did he mean those who have been victims of circumstances – ke jehni kadar k’um chhe – ehne baland karoo. I put forward this question to my sons, and I put forward it you my dear readers? Please do reflect, and you will surely find spiritual bliss, and understand the importance of this food sharing. Our family can easily have Canneloni Milanaise Style ( an ideal party dish – Tarla Dalal) but no we will decide to have the same ‘thali’ food, for we know that there is some ‘hiqmat’ in the initiative started by Molayi A’li Qdr Muffadal Saifuddin saheb (TUS) LUCKY ME - the lights had not come on, and my sons with rapt attention were listening. As a family we agreed that yes we will take the ‘thali’ and surprise of surprise, my son had more updated information than me. He said he is following the development with interest and being an MBA student, he is seriously considering doing a project on it. He had worked out the costs based on per person consumption of 125 gms rice (Gobindo bhog is cheaper and more nutritious than costly Basmati – we are not doing a ‘shaadi khana’ was his argument) 3 rotis – 25 gms mutton /khima – dal 50 gms and sabji 100 gms) He said to bring down the costs , mumina ladies from affluent families who have Ayahs and other support staff at home to care, can volunteer their services one day a week. Six groups for six days a week can be formed and their husbands can be entrusted with daily bazaar. Now it was our time to listen with rapt attention to the sage and practical advice of both our sons who were gung-ho and pretty exited. LUCKY ME!! THE POWER CAME ON! MISSION ACCOMPLISHED! I stole an affectionate glance at Rabab and found her all smiles, and pink as peach. I thank ALLAH for having blessed me with such a wonderful family. END DEAR READERS : I hope you enjoyed reading LUCKY ME but more important, many misconceptions and questions may have been removed. As for me I thoroughly enjoyed writing it, and being blessed to convey my thoughts and insights. In the process I have used my imagination as well as facts, both have been deftly interlinked. To conclude Rabab is my wife and as with ladies who love to hide their age I have made her younger by 11 years!! Murtaza and Nooruddin are my two sons, but both of them died in their infancy. Had they lived both of them would have been strapping + 30 and apples of our eyes. In their premature deaths and sufferings I learnt a great lesson. There are no regrets, but fond remembrance. They taught me to live life in jest, and my writings, and my interaction with family and friends, is a living proof. I have two grown up children, and grand childrens.

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A great life lesson I learnt from them was to empathize – to reach out to the suffering and the marginalized of the community, who are victims of circumstances, and not personal failures in life. As Eckhart Tolle says in his best seller - A New Earth – these are the people who ACCEPT WHAT IS - they accept THE PRESENT MOMENT with fortitude. I feel it is for this particular section of the marginalized community for whom Aqa Moula (TUS) has referred so eloquently, in the Munazaat Sharifa, they must be in his thoughts, in his fervent ‘ilteza’ this Laylatul Qdr. Dear Readers this story LUCKY ME I fondly dedicate to both my sons, who died in infancy. Any good that may come out from your reading, let it be their ‘sawab’ ALHAMDOLILLAH!

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To

MY FAMILY

“grow strong in faith and in love of our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) so strong and firm that when I am no more my thoughts may blossom more resplendent in you all that I may find solace in knowing that you begin from where I leave off knowing that my work for ever will live and thrive in my loved ones” MY FAMILY Abde Sayedna (TUS) Asger Fakhruddin - Kolkata M:- 09831242486 e-mail: [email protected] Kitab Cover / Mind Mint Design & Article Compilation by: Abde Sayedna (TUS) Yusuf Barwaniwala - Kolkata e-mail: [email protected]

Meavi Milad Mubaraka Kitab A compilation of my hundred articles

mailto:[email protected]