All Comments (65)

As salaam alaikum.

My concern occurs when people take environmental causes and action as their religion.

As believers we must be faith to Allah (swt) and His gentle middle path.

Ma'as salaama,
nuh ibn

Peace upon you brother Zaid,

In the spirit of discussion and healthy challenge I would humbly like to mention a few thoughts as they came while I read your article:

Islam is not a 'new' religion founded 1400 years ago and established by the imperialists that we must look back to history for clues and proof of its greatness. The message is simply 'We come from God, we will return to God, this life is not our whole life, the life to come is indeed the true life, this life is simply a brief period of testing'. The message is universal, old as Adam and must be separated from a particular culture and history that have preserved it (even though that culture and history tell us how people have reacted to this Big News of Akhirat, it is this News that must be at the center of any writing coming from a Reciter at the expense of any 'separateness' into muslim nations and even muslim people which are largely cultural and political leftovers.)

In other words, I expected that you would address yourself to all of mankind, and address them with the Big News... and then put the environmental problem in its proper place...

if we try to solve the environmental problem because we are afraid of doom... we would be conforming that we are those who have not heard the Recitation. If we try to address Global Warming only so we can leave something better for our future generations, so the balance can 'perpetuate' we would be behaving as if we never heard the Big News...

The people most concerned with Global Warming are the people with the biggest investments, I mean dollar wise. The Carbon Disclosure Project represents about 35% (if I remember correctly) of the world's total investment dollars. These guys simply want to minimize their risks. The people who most want to remove poverty are the folks at the World Bank.

A man (or woman) on the other hand whose heart has trembled upon hearing the Recitation would think twice before lending a helping hand to the tiny minority who want to repair the damage to the planet so they can continue to control the game. As long as the system of banking and money creation (fiat currency) continue to pollute the economic activity there can be no effective action towards Justice. All action only helps to continue the imbalance to grow. The Bankers will get all of us to chip in and solve these issues to some extent, and then manage the biodiversity and wealth distribution and we'll have a happy umma making Salaat and multiple Hajj with the wages earned by going to work every morning to create a harmonius global village where zina with our mothers (riba) is simply something we have learnt to live with!

The real reason for the environmental crisis is The Great Game. The Great Game of ownership of the world's resources. The way to react is not help the opressor out of fear of doom by putting ointment on the wounded, but to challenge the opressor and subdue him. The economic system is not flawed only because it damages the ecosystems and creates poverty... for soon it will solve these issues... it is flawed because it is being run by an Invisible Hand of those who 'create' money.

Cancel all interest payment. Render all money lending institutions illegal. Money can be lent only as charity.. with expectation of only the Principal amount. Punish the Fedreal Reserve. Make corporations liable for what they do. No more Limited Liability. Take away the rights of corporations. Encourage Small business. Discourage Gambling like enterprises.

These are the battles to fight before we rush into helping those who deserve to be stopped.

Thanks Imam Zaid,

You always help us with you brilliant and wise thoughts. God bless you.

I am a former staff member, and permanent volunteer with IMAN in Chicago. I own six acres in a small traditionally black community 50 miles south of Chicago called Pembroke, township. I want to start a local movement in conjunction the Council of Islamic Organizations and IMAN to address global warming, peak oil and food availability and food accessibility. The organization will be called the Green Muslim and our goal is to education every Muslim about global warming and teach them conserve and recycle. Also, we will plan to build gardens and teach masjids how to grow food and encourage them to participate in a Muslim CSA.

The Green Muslim will be similar to IMAN in that it is a community action agent, we will teach Muslim families and individuals how to grow their own food as well as how to recycle and keep the Muslim community abreast of environmental issues.

I would like for you to be on my board.
Please contact me at 773 512-5215 or kamal@imancentral.org

I am a former staff member, and permanent volunteer with IMAN in Chicago. I own six acres in a small traditionally black community 50 miles south of Chicago called Pembroke, township. I want to start a local movement in conjunction the Council of Islamic Organizations and IMAN to address global warming, peak oil and food availability and food accessibility. The organization will be called the Green Muslim and our goal is to education every Muslim about global warming and teach them conserve and recycle. Also, we will plan to build gardens and teach masjids how to grow food and encourage them to participate in a Muslim CSA.

The Green Muslim will be similar to IMAN in that it is a community action agent, we will teach Muslim families and individuals how to grow their own food as well as how to recycle and keep the Muslim community abreast of environmental issues.

I would like for you to be on my board.
Please contact me at 773 512-5215 or kamal@imancentral.org

As-salamu alaykum to my brothers and sisters,

May Allah preserve Imam Zaid Shakir. Its people of this stature who bring out the true teachings of Islam to the present world. However, a lot of people who write on the blog may not understand the true teachings. My request to them is try and learn, rather than following the stereotype thats created by the media and the politicians.

“Anyone who kills innocent life to advance their political agenda is a terrorist,” said Imam Zaid Shakir. You can be Muslim or a non muslim to qualify as a terorrist. You can also be an American or an Arab. Having pittance worth knowledge about Islam, it teaches to love, serve God and to know. Lets not use forum for Arguments. If one's intention is to discuss, you will not use abusive language. Lets all learn that 'Ignorance is knowing that you've limited knowledge'. If there's an intention to know more or to discuss, may God bless us all to travel the righteous path and seek true knowledge.

Asif

As-salamu alaykum to my brothers and sisters,

May Allah preserve Imam Zaid Shakir. Its people of this stature who bring out the true teachings of Islam to the present world. However, a lot of people who write on the blog may not understand the true teachings. My request to them is try and learn, rather than following the stereotype thats created by the media and the politicians.

“Anyone who kills innocent life to advance their political agenda is a terrorist,” said Imam Zaid Shakir. You can be Muslim or a non muslim to qualify as a terorrist. You can also be an American or an Arab. Having pittance worth knowledge about Islam, it teaches to love, serve God and to know. Lets not use forum for Arguments. If one's intention is to discuss, you will not use abusive language. Lets all learn that 'Ignorance is knowing that you've limited knowledge'. If there's an intention to know more or to discuss, may God bless us all to travel the righteous path and seek true knowledge.

Asif

As-salamu alaykum to my brothers and sisters,

May Allah preserve Imam Zaid Shakir. Its people of this stature who bring out the true teachings of Islam to the present world. However, a lot of people who write on the blog may not understand the true teachings. My request to them is try and learn, rather than following the stereotype thats created by the media and the politicians.

“Anyone who kills innocent life to advance their political agenda is a terrorist,” said Imam Zaid Shakir. You can be Muslim or a non muslim to qualify as a terorrist. You can also be an American or an Arab. Having pittance worth knowledge about Islam, it teaches to love, serve God and to know. Lets not use forum for Arguments. If one's intention is to discuss, you will not use abusive language. Lets all learn that 'Ignorance is knowing that you've limited knowledge'. If there's an intention to know more or to discuss, may God bless us all to travel the righteous path and seek true knowledge.

Asif

As-salamu alaykum to my brothers and sisters,

May Allah preserve Imam Zaid Shakir. Its people of this stature who bring out the true teachings of Islam to the present world. However, a lot of people who write on the blog may not understand the true teachings. My request to them is try and learn, rather than following the stereotype thats created by the media and the politicians.

“Anyone who kills innocent life to advance their political agenda is a terrorist,” said Imam Zaid Shakir. You can be Muslim or a non muslim to qualify as a terorrist. You can also be an American or an Arab. Having pittance worth knowledge about Islam, it teaches to love, serve God and to know. Lets not use forum for Arguments. If one's intention is to discuss, you will not use abusive language. Lets all learn that 'Ignorance is knowing that you've limited knowledge'. If there's an intention to know more or to discuss, may God bless us all to travel the righteous path and seek true knowledge.

Asif

hello

For those who are unaware, this article is about Islam and environmentalism not Hindu/Vedic scriptures.

If you really want to read about the actual Hindu scripture go to the scripture

http://www.cyberistan.org/islamic/prophhs.html

http://www.wowgolds-sale.com/

Arif Nurwahyu wrote:
Muhammad was SEAL of Prophets. Holy Qur’an, Saheeh Hadeeths, Holy Bible & Hindu Scriptures CONFIRMED that.

You are right about Mohammad being predicted in the HINDU scriptues. Here's what the hindu scriptures say about this evil deceiver in the "Bhavishya Purana"

http://www.lebensplan.com/puranas/islam.html

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It is an understanding of the mass that the teachings of Prophet Mohammed are completely ideal. After him, his followers wrongly interpreted the Holy Quran and did all acts leading to tyranny and destruction. But this is incorrect. In Bhavishya Puran, Maharshi Vyas has already written that “in Kaliyug, Tripurasur will take birth as Mahamad and will establish a demoniac religion.” The roots if Islamic terrorism lie in this demoniac religion (Islam) established by Tripurasur.

Foresightedness of Maharshi Vyas

Hindus are astonished seeing the forecasts made by Nostradamus. But Maharshi Vyas wrote ‘Bhavishya Puran’ 5000 years ago. Hindus are unaware of many incidences that have been narrated in it with utmost perfection. Maharshi Vyas wrote in the ‘Bhavishya Purana’ that “Tripurasur (a demon) will be reborn in Kaliyuga as ‘Mahamad’ (Mohammed Paigambar) and will establish a demoniac and destructive religion.”

The ‘Pratisarg parva’ of Bhavishya Puran (Adhyay 3, Shlok 5 to 27), describes ‘Mahamad’. Shri. P.N. Joshi has translated the Bhavishya Puran from Sanskrit to Marathi, the literary translation is given below. The clarifications are in brackets. “The Shalivahan’s had ten generations. They reigned for 500 years and when they departed there remained no limitations of the Bhoolok for them. The tenth King, Raja ‘Bhoj’ was powerful. He with ten thousand soldiers, Brahmins & Kalidas set off for universal conquest. Crossing the Sindhu, he conquered the ‘Mlencch’ (A barbarian or foreigner that speaks any language but Sanskrit and not subject to the usual Hindu institution) in Gandhar and the ‘Shath’ in Kashmir. King Bhoj grabbed their treasure and then punished them.

In the mean time, an illusory mlencch named Mhamad arrived with his preceptor (acharya) and his disciples to him. King Bhoj worshiped the idol of Lord Mahadev in the Marusthal (land of deserts) with the panchagavya (the five products derived from the cow) and sandal etc. King Bhoj prayed to Lord Mahadev, “O Girijanath who stays in the marusthal (land of deserts), I offer my prayers to you. You have forced maya to destroy Tripurasur; but the mlencchs are worshiping you. You are pure and sacchidanand swaroop. I am your sevak. I have come under your protection.”

Lord Mahadev then said, “Let the King go to Mahakaleshwar (Ujjain). O King, the land where you are standing, that is popular by the name of Bahik (Baltic), has been polluted by the mlencchs. Their exists no righteousness in this horrible land of Bahik. The mahamayavi (highly illusory) Tripurasur whom I had burnt has again come there. He is the one who is increasing the demons and is casteless. He has attained a boon from me and is becoming popular by the name of ‘Mahamad’. He is fast in demoniac actions. That is why O King, please do not come in this demoniac land. O King, you will be purified by my prasâda (offerings).”
Listening to this, King Bhoj returned back to his kingdom. Mahamad too acompanied him to the banks of the river Sindhu. Affectionately he said to King Bhoj, “Your Lord who is expert in all arts, has now become my slave. See how he eats my left over food.” King saw all that happened. Kalidasa seeing the King engrossed in the illusion created, said to the illusory Mahamad, “O cunning Mahamad, you have constructed an illusion to hypnotize the King. I will destroy the wicked Bâhik (the one who stays in Bahik land).” Saying this, the glorious Brahman performed a ceremony of chanting the navârß jap ten thousand times. He made offerings of one tenth of those in a sacred fire (hom). As a result, the illusionary mlencch transformed into divine ashes. Seeing this, his disciples’ fleed to the bahik lands. They buried the ashes of their Guru and stayed there itself. That place is named as Madaheen (presently known as Madina). At night, the cunning mlencch (Mahamad) who was transformed in devine ashes, taking the form of a demon said to King Bhoj, “Your Ârya dharm is the only dharm that is superior of all. But by the orders of God, I will create a demoniac religion. My fellowmen will be those who will do circumcision (Sunthâ), will be without shikhâ (the tuft or lock of hair left on the top of head at tonsure – one of the distinguishing marks of the Hindu), will have beard, will loudly hum in tune (âlâp), and will eat every thing (sarvabhakshak). I am of opinion that one should eat everything but pig. As the Kushas, their sanskar will be done by MUSAL, hence their musalman sect will make all other religions impure. Such will be my demoniac (Islam) religion.” He said so and went off. Later King Bhoj returned home. The reality of Islam has been written by Maharshi Vyas 5000 years ago.
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Thank you Imam Shakir,

I have found your articles a source of constant inspiration.

Like you I am very concerned that our impact on the environment over the last century has spiralled into an irreversible process. Short of a global policy, pushing people toward the most simple of lifestyles, this can probably not be achieved. Existing capitalist democratic models do not have the tools to bring about such a deflation to their own economies. You make one believe that a determined adherence to the islamic ethics described in your article could lead to a way out of our dilemma. Thank you for that hope.

If only our policy makers could think as intelligently and clearly as Imam Zaid Shakir.

I'm really glad this was posted as I've increasingly heard Imam Zaid talk about the issue in classes, etc...

In contrast, I am disappointed that once again I find the most ridiculous and unrelated comments posted below it by people who would be too cowardly to say such things in public.

There will always be people from all corners of the Earth who are not content to get along with others, and who will seek out conflict and/or violence wherever it has the potential for arising. God-willing, the thinking people on this planet will find a way to marginalize this minority so that the rest of us can get some peace and quiet.

For those who post the increasingly antagonistic, ignorant, unrelated, and off the cuff comments I say to you please go get yourself an education before you DO make fools of yourself in public in addition to online forums or message boards.

Assalamu'alaykum,

ARE THERE 2 PERSONS IDENTIFIED AS ANONYMOUS???

I am really confused with the comment of Brother/Sister 'Anonymous' concerning apostacy in one side and the supporting comment by saying OK on the accusation of Allah,Prophet Muhammad & Islam on the other side (by brother ROSS).

In my opinion, there must be 2 persons identified themselves as 'ANONYMOUS'. Is this right???

Wassalamu'alaykum

Putting an apostate to death is not as simple as black and white.

During the time of the prophet (PBUH) there was a man whose three sons became christian and the person asked the prophet's (PBUH) permission to kill them. The prophet (PBUH) replied to the father that his sons should be as they chose to be. (My deepest and sincere apology for not remembering the source of this hadith!)

Three major schools of islamic jurisprudence (Hanafi, Shafi and Hamboli) does not condemn an apostate to death. Only the Maliki school of jurisprudence has that ruling. HOWEVER, it is not as simple as to kill a person Just because the person is an apostate since it goes against the Quranic injunction "there is no compulsion against religion."

Indeed many many things have to be considered before even to reach that decision. If one study the history of islam, one will see that the first caliph Abu Bakr (may God be pleased with him) waged a war against the apostate not because they decided to leave islam, but they were quite inimical toward this nascent religion by refusing to give zakat while they were capable, claimed prophethood of their own and taking advantage of this new religion whose messanger (PBUH) just passed away by instigating animosity.

It is unfortunate that majority of the muslims (including myself) do not study the islamic history, civilization, islamic law or jurisprudence (fiqh or sharia), aqida... etc today to better understand this sacred religion so that we can better inform others.

Non-Believers in Holy Qur'an:

"The One Do Not believed in Islam (Non-Muslim) referred as Kafir" Kafir means "One Who Do not accept Islam, If Kafir (arabic word) is translated into English it becomes Non-Muslim". According to islamic fiqh, there are 2 types of kafirs.

1. Kuffar (Kafir Harbi) - Non-Muslims who againts Muslims.
2. Kafir Zimmi - Non-Muslims who have peace agreemnet with muslims. Muslims MUST protect their blood,assets & honor.

Prophet Muhammad said "One who harms the Zimmi(s) it is indirectly harm me, I swear that on the day of judgement I will become on their side (zimmi)"

Life on the earth (world) is examination from Allah whether human being accepting islam or not. Holy Qur'an (Surah Baqoroh:256 - There is No compulsion in religion (islam), the right is different from the false")

According to Hadeeths, One who committed to apostacy AND making mischief in the world must be put death penalty.

Marie Pizzuto wrote:
In addition, I hope your horizons are broadened as you are also a beautiful creation of OUR creator. I'm sorry to inform you that You and I are brothers. We are both from Adam, and if we both make it to Paradise (MAy God grant us both Paradise) then we will have to see one another and greet each other.

In that case why are non believers and polytheists (those who commit shirk ) condemned to hell according to the quran ?

Why are apostates of islam condemned to DEATH in countries where the quran based sharia laws are implemented ? Why must God's beautiful creation (as you put it) be sentenced to death ?

Above reply was directed to Bob and Ross only.

Ohh Lordie. May Allah be glorified and praised, and may the peace and blessings of Allah be on the prophet Muhammad (s)and his people, and may the misguided be guided and the may the guided enter Paradise.

Dear Bob and Ross. In the mentality of one who does not possses the wisdom of Islam, I do fully understand why minds such as yours would consider certain people as perverted, old and in love with a young girl. I do fully understand.

In addition, in the mentality of those who do not posses the cunning art of the media, I do fully understand why minds such as yours would consider muslims as terrorist.

So yes, I do fully understand your point, but sadly, for you, they are incorrect. Please do research for yourselves, please beware of false websites created by non-muslims posing as muslims. In addition, I hope your horizons are broadened as you are also a beautiful creation of OUR creator. I'm sorry to inform you that You and I are brothers. We are both from Adam, and if we both make it to Paradise (MAy God grant us both Paradise) then we will have to see one another and greet each other.

There is something about Islam that pulls you, Bob or Ross, to this website. "What are the muslims up to now," you are thinking. "What kind of act are they trying to pull of with their absurd beliefs?" I do fully understand, but you both are still here, and you both felt the need to "help the muslims" by insulting us. Everyone knows insults don't work.

may God grant us what He knows best is good for ALL of us. Ameeen.

Assalamu'alaykum, Peace Be Upon You,

To Brother/Sister "CONCERNED NOW THE CHRISTIANS LIBERATED"

We SHOULD know that this is the discussion on the topic Religion & Environment. I astonish why You blame with negative comment on Sister Jihadist' comment???

You identified as CHRISTIAN, Why Don't You quote from your HOLY BIBLE & sayings of CHURCH FATHERS on the issue Religion & Environment???

Arif Nurwahyu

jakarta - indonesia

Assalamu'alaykum,

To Sister "JIHADIST" in Malaysia,

Let me say apologize to you - fellow Malaysian - due to forest destruction & "Smoke" both in Borneo & Sumatera that caused air pollution in Sabah & Sarawak (North Borneo) & Malay Peninsula.

That was due to illegal logging & 'fire' in the forest in Borneo. Shame on Us as neighboring/muslim country & "Sesama Melayu" (translated: Malay brotherhood/sisterhood)could not take care carefully our forests.

I'm sure that both Malaysia & Indonesia have laws & legislation to rule forests & Rights on exploration given to businessmen. In Indonesia there is HPH ('Hak Penguasaan Hutan')--> translated: Rights given to businessmen to explore the forests for several years.

How about Malaysia? Are there any strictly limitation in terms of period & how many acres/kilometer per square that businessmen can rent? I'm sure there could be more strictly than Indonesia!

Are there also any religious rulings (fatwa) from Malay Ulama' (Malay Muslim Jurists) on the issue of environment?

Maybe You can share with our fellow muslim brothers/sisters around the world in this discussion...

Finally, "Saudari tinggal di mana? Di Semenanjung Malaya,Borneo Utara, Pulau Langkawi ataukah Pulau Penang?" Salam Mesra...

Arif Nurwahyu

jakarta - indonesia

Assalamu'alaykum Brothers/Sisters:

Bro/Sis "FRIEND OF HUMANITY":

Thanks for your positive respones to me! You are right for one thing that We SHOULD ignore people like ROSS,ANONYMOUS & BILL. It is wasting time to respond them. BUT, I CANNOT tolerate people insulting ALLAH, Prophet Muhammad & Islam JUST by 'cruel' comments. We MUST Correct them & let them think with DEEP THINKING whether their accusation is right or wrong!

Had they denied our argument, that's their choices! Allah WILL judge them inthe hereafter!

Finally, I want to say to you; Please tell me what is your name, where you live,you're male or female. Isn't better if i know you better as muslim brotherhood? We SHOULD distinguish ourselves NOT coward like people who attacking islam by JUST simply put 'unreal name' in this forum!

Salam Hangat dari Saudaramu Muslim di Indonesia
"Warm Greeting from your indonesian muslim brother"

Arif Nurwahyu

“Deaf, Dumb and Blind, They Will Not Return (to the path)”
(Holy Qur’an Surah Al Baqoroh : 18)

--------- FINAL REPLY TO ROSS -------

ROSS, You posed me too far Out of Subject “Religion & Environment” Therefore I SHOULD stay on subject on discussion to other people in this Forum. It seemed You WILL NOT learn How to understand Islam better.

Well, I want to reply You for the last time,

1.I SAID “How MANY elder people today committed to adultery with teenagers or children? I DID NOT SAY “ ALL elder people today committed to adultery with teenagers or children!. Please open OXFORD Dictionary to find out What’s the meaning of MANY & What’s the meaning of ALL! Are They the same??? Isn’t English your mother tongue??? SHOULD I teach fellow American to distinguish between MANY & ALL???

2.NEVER I deduce Prophet Muhammad was a child molester! That’s your own POOR deducing! SINCE You CANNOT distinguish between MANY & ALL then Your deducing is NOT VALID!

3.You accuse ALLAH like a Pimp (Astaghfirullah! – O ALLAH please forgive me). It is clear that You WON’T learn the Wisdom of ALLAH behind evidences around the life of the Prophets. It was a Wisdom from ALLAH that Prophet Muhammad married a teenage girl (Aishah). In her teenage she COULD narrate/memorize thousands sayings & actions of Muhammad (peace be upon him) about the LAWS (personal law, husband-wife relationship, motherhood, neighboring, adoption, women issues, Muslim-Nonmuslim relationships, etc) All companions of Muhammad PBUH might ask Aishah for consulting such laws. SIMILARLY, It was a Wisdom of ALLAH that HE ordered Abraham to slaughter his beloved son ISHMAEL to ABOLISH the pagan practices at that time that When Someone who wanted to close to God He/She MIGHT conduct Human Sacrify (by killing, maiming, etc). ALLAH knows the HUMBLE of Abraham then HE rewarded a SHEEP to be slaughtered instead of ISHMAEL.

4.You accused Muslims worshipping Satan instead of ALLAH 5 a day! It is a POOR analysis! For better understanding I suggest you to click the official website of SATANIC CHURCH on internet to understand what Satanism is, the way to worship satan,etc. You may ask satanic scholar like ANTON SZANDOR LA VEY for better understanding!

Then I recommend You to take a course at ZAYTUNA in Hayward California to learn Who is ALLAH, The way to worship ALLAH,etc…Ask Imam ZAID SHAKIR, Sheikh HAMZA YUSUF, SUHAIB WEBB to learn Worship in Islam! I think it will be better than make accusation to muslims worshipping satan! It MUST BE different worshipping ALLAH & satan.

5.Muhammad was SEAL of Prophets. Holy Qur’an, Saheeh Hadeeths, Holy Bible & Hindu Scriptures CONFIRMED that! I recommend You ALSO to read these books: 1) Muhammad in the Bible by Rev.Benjamin Keldani (a Catholic priest) 2) Muhammad in Hindu Scriptures by Dr.Ved Prakash Uphaddaya (Hindu scholar) 3) Life of Muhammad by MARTIN LINGS, KAREN ARMSTRONG. 4) Is Muhammad True Prophet of God? – a debate between Dr.JAMAL BADAWI vs Dr.Woodberry ( a Video Debate).

6.You doubt that Qur’an Word of God. I suggest you contact Islamic Research Foundation in Mumbai India to get a VIDEO lecture of Dr.ZAKIR NAIK – Is Qur’an Word of God? I recommend you also read these books: 1) Qur’an, Bible & Modern Science by Dr.MAURICE BUCAILLE, 2) Embriology with Islamic Edition by Dr.KEITH MOORE. These 2 books give a scientific facts that Qur’an is Word of God!!!

7.Islam HAD proofs that it contributed to HUMANITY! And it will be continuing…Islamic caliphate in Medina HAD liberated people in Syrian, North Africa, Persian from despotism of Roman & Persian Empires in 7th century! Islamic caliphate in ANDALUSIA SPAIN (Umayyad), EASTERN EUROPE (Ottoman) were proofs that Muslims were so powerful at that time in Science & Technology, military, commerce,etc. Islam had influenced Europe into RENAISSANCE! Before that, Christians/Europeans were so backward!

TODAY, Islamic financial sectors (SUKUK, Free Interest Banking) & HALAL Food Industries are a new phenomena! Many Muslims & Non-Muslims are involved in this field!

I have enforced to explain ISLAM to fellow Non-Muslims…Now it is my TURN to ask You, Please Answer ALL these Questions!

DO NOT RUN A WAY (ESCAPE) if You feel You are Smart, Well Educated & think that Islam is wrong! Please DO NOT BE COWARD by changing your identity in this forum!

1.Who is Your God? Does your God CAN Change the rotation of the earth from “TURN LEFT” into TURN RIGHT” so the Sun APPEARS rise in the West & APPEARS set in the East everyday? If your answer is NO then Why are you worshipping him? What’s your scientific proofs? If your answer is YES then why you accuse His Messenger (Muhammad)???

2.You maybe know the story of Prophet ABRAHAM who received Revelation from ALLAH to slaughter his son (ISHMAEL as Muslims believe or ISAAC as Christians believe). Suppose You have a 70 year old neighbour who one day told you that He received revelation from ALLAH through his dream to slaughter his young son/boy! Now WILL you believe this elder man received messages from ALLAH? If your answer is NO then What is different with Prophet ABRAHAM??? If You believe that Abraham was a prophet since He slaughtered his son, then Why You do not belive that Muhammad was also a prophet since he married a 9 year old girl??? Give your argument!!!

3.WILL you DO incest with your daughter to get children as described in the BIBLE (story of Prophet Lot)??? If your answer is NO then Do you believe that BIBLE is the Word of God entirely???

If You feel You are NOT CAPABLE enough to answer these questions, You May ask “Anonymous” to assist you! If both of You CANNOT answer these questions You MUST CONFESS in HUMBLE & FRANKLY that You’re both NOT QUALIFIED / NOT WELL-EDUCATED enough to join this Forum!!! Then You May Leave this Forum!!!

Arif Nurwahyu

Jakarta - INDONESIA

Bill and Ross, dont spew such hatred on this board, we dont need racism here. Please understand that this is a discussion for civilised people, if you cant be civilised, then leave. Dont ruin it for others.

Also, Muslims come from all sorts of different backgrounds, many even reverted to Islam, they include native Westerners, where would they "go home too," back to Britain or Europe or US. Educate yourselves. Racism is bad and looked down upon in civilised societies.

To Bill and Ross

What happened here?

Zaid was speaking upon that it is every Muslim's duty to keep the world as it is. This article is not very insulting to anyone who is not muslim. He did not even utter the word christian in the entire thing. Why do you insist on insulting muslims? Are you trying to provoke them?

True, there are many exremists out there and terrorists who have declared themsleves followers of Islam. But not all muslims are like this. By thinking in the way you are, you are no different from those preachers of death and distruction who deserve nothing less than the gallows. Just compare your speeches with the terrorists who cry "Death to the Americans!", you'd be suprised how similar they are.

If you wish to hate any religon in such a manner, do not share it with us. We don't want to hear it.

Bill:

Zaid Shakir was born in America, and is an American. Did you not read his biography before making your stupid comment? Obviously not. For him to "go back home" would probably be to the East coast of the U.S. or other areas near. Ignorant folk like you need to educated about "them Moslems" as people like to say. No need to wipe anyone out, not even an idiot like you, so educate yourself and think before you speak.

Zaid Shakir, you are a fool

Islam is full of terrorists, western land does not welcome your Islamic ways nor your faith ! go back home.

30 bombs exploded in Thailand Sunday 16th,2007
by Muslim terrorists

look it up !

these people need to be wiped out

Peace

Arif, Suzane and other Muslims and pro-Muslims, ignore people like ross and other haters here, they came from a hate filled forum and they only know how to insult and hate, look how they insult God, the Quran, Muhammad PBUH and Islam. Theres no point debating them, for example, look what ross said about the Muslims here:

"ross: Anyone fancy replying to this islamic moron ? I don't have the time
"

That was directed towards Arif Nurwahyu. Ross and others on their hate filled forum also call you Muslims and pro-Muslims all sorts of nasty names, such as brain dead leftists, Muslim zombies, self hating liberals, idiots etc they are facists right wingers who cannot tolerate Islam and any views opposing to them. These people arent worth your time, it'll bet better if you ignore them and if you wan tto do dawah, go to other forums where people arent hate filled and respect others' belief.

I think if you ignore them, they'll rant with each other for some time then go away. I felt offended for Muslims and pro-Muslims when i saw the amount of disgusting names they call you. They hate you and backbite and slander you behind your back, thats the sort of people they are.

Salam

ok

Arif Nurwahyu wrote:
1. You said: “It is unnatural for a man of 54 to look at a 9 year old girl sexually”. With due respect You’re WRONG! How many elder people today committed to adultery with teenagers or children? How many elder people committed to pedophilia with young boys? You maybe know that there are many teenagers who committed to prostitution in Thailand or many young boys victims of pedophilia acts by tourists in may country (Bali – INDONESIA).

So what is the difference between these pedophiles and your prophet ? You just deduced that your prophet is a child molester !

Arif Nurwahyu wrote:
2. Then you will say “O arif your prophet was pedophile since he was married with a 9 year old girl?” Brother ROSS, “Had the Prophet Muhammad NOT received Revelation from ALLAH through his dream to marry Aishah, He WOULD NOT marry her!”

Allah is more like a PIMP. In countries where pedophilia takes place you find pimp showing photos or pictures thru the internet of small children to potential paedophile clients, in the same way Allah showed Mohammed the baby Aisha for him to exploit.
The Allah you bow to 5 times a day is SATAN because a true God will not exploit little children. Do you sincerely believe a true god would act this way ?

Arif Nurwahyu wrote:
Prophet Muhammad was the SEAL of the Prophets,

Who told you that, The quran ??? and guess who wrote the quran. You are using circular logic here.

Arif Nurwahyu wrote:
The moment I deny the prophethood of Muhammad, it is INDIRECTLY, I dismiss the prophethood of all prophets (ABRAHAM, MOSES, JESUS, DANIEL, JEREMIA, MUHAMMAD – May Please Be Upon Them All). We - as Muslims – HAVE TO believe/love to/respect to all prophets since they were messenger from ALLAH.

The moment you stop believing in ISLAM is the moment you will open your eyes to humanity ! You will know the difference between the truth and what is false, between love and hatred, between humility and pride. At present you are blinded by this cult.

"We have not sent thee but as a universal (Messenger) to men, giving them glad tidings and warning them (against sin), but most men understand NOT." [Holy Qur’an Surah Saba’ :28]
(Note: ‘We’ refers to royal plural for ALLAH & ‘Thee’ refers to Prophet Muhammad)

Bother ROSS, actually We SHOULD limit our discussion on the topic ‘Religion & Environment’ ONLY, BUT since You’re Non-Muslim & Misunderstood about the Prophet Muhammad; I felt I am compelled to make clarification to You.

1. You said: “It is unnatural for a man of 54 to look at a 9 year old girl sexually”. With due respect You’re WRONG! How many elder people today committed to adultery with teenagers or children? How many elder people committed to pedophilia with young boys? You maybe know that there are many teenagers who committed to prostitution in Thailand or many young boys victims of pedophilia acts by tourists in may country (Bali – INDONESIA).

2. Then you will say “O arif your prophet was pedophile since he was married with a 9 year old girl?” Brother ROSS, “Had the Prophet Muhammad NOT received Revelation from ALLAH through his dream to marry Aishah, He WOULD NOT marry her!”

3. Then You asked me: “Imagine if you have a 50 year old neighbor who one day claims he has received visions from God, one year later he comes home with a 9 year old girl claiming to be his wife, now will you believe this man really received messages from God ?
If your answer NO then what is so different about Mohammed ?”
Brother ROSS, I DO NOT know whether You’re Christian, Atheist or Secular Humanist. BUT I assume You’re living in Western/Christian society/culture, SO at least You’re familiar with BIBLE.
My answer to point no.3 is NO! WHY? Since the Prophet Muhammad was the SEAL of the Prophets, There was NO REVALATION from ALLAH after his death.
Let me give You ANALOGY for better understanding!
You maybe know the story of Prophet ABRAHAM who received Revelation from ALLAH to slaughter his son (ISHMAEL as Muslims believe or ISAAC as Christians believe). Suppose You have a 70 year old neighbor who one day told you that He received revelation from ALLAH through his dream to slaughter his young son/boy! No WILL you believe this elder man received messages from ALLAH? If your answer is NO then What is different with Prophet ABRAHAM???

4. Then You asked me: “Also imagine if he wants to marry your 9 year old daughter or sister, will you agree ?”

By the way You MUST understand the Islamic terminology for mature/adult. According to Fiqh (Islamic Law) ‘When the BOY had a Wet Dream i.e. He committed with sexual activities in his dream so He ejaculated with his sperm -> It is the reckoning his mature. Similarly ‘When the GIRL gets menstruation for the 1st time it is reckoning her mature.’ The age of girl gets menstruation is vary, it maybe start at 9,10,12,13 or 15.

If someone who entire his life is Trustworthy, Humble, Pious, Well Income, Well Educated, Healthy; even he is 50  that’s not problem if He wants to marry my sister/daughter/niece/cousin…even my (sister/daughter/niece/cousin) is at her teenage. In some traditional societies/developing countries it is a custom for young teenage women get married...

BUT I want to ask You: WILL you DO incest with your daughter to get children as described in the BIBLE (story of Prophet Lot)??? I’m sure even in secular country like USA, Catholic country like Brazil or Orthodox country like Russia YOU WILL BE Condemned by ALL Church Denominations. YOU WILL also BE put in the JAIL since YOU are breaking the CIVIL LAW.

5. You asked me to STOP believing Muhammad as a Prophet! Brother ROSS, “The moment I deny the prophethood of Muhammad, it is INDIRECTLY, I dismiss the prophethood of all prophets (ABRAHAM, MOSES, JESUS, DANIEL, JEREMIA, MUHAMMAD – May Please Be Upon Them All). We - as Muslims – HAVE TO believe/love to/respect to all prophets since they were messenger from ALLAH.

Finally, I wan to say unto You  Please STOP your DUAL STANDARDS in analyzing/excavating/elaborating the story of Prophets! You MUST apply the same STANDARD in analyzing/excavating/elaborating story of all prophets & other famous people!

Arif Nurwahyu

Jakarta - INDONESIA

Zaid

The best way to save this planet is to rid this cult of Injustice, Intolerance, Cruelty, Absurdities, discrimination, Contradictions and blind faith. A cult that advocates killing the non-Muslims and abuses the human rights of minorities and women. A cult that expanded mostly by Jihad and forced its way by killing the non-believers. A cult where apostasy is the biggest crime punishable by death.

Save humanity first !

Peace....beautiful article Imam Zaid, as always! A pure heart only gives out what it contains.....hopefully these articles will continue, despite some of the idiotic responses by some people. Jazaks! :)

Arif Nurwahyu,

Your prophet is a paedophile who bedded a 9 year old girl. It is unnatural for a man of 54 to look at a 9 year old girl sexually.
Look around you how many 50+ year old men do see going around with 9yr old girls ?
Imagine if you have a 50 year old neighbour who one day claims he has received visions from God, one year later he comes home with a 9 year old girl claiming to be his wife, now will you believe this man really received messages from God ?
If your answer NO then what is so different about Mohammed ?
Also imagine if he wants to marry your 9 year old daughter or sister, will you agree ?

Stop believing this man is a prophet, he is fake and his allah is satan.

Do not lower your moral standards for him.

brother ross

"Allaahumma Shollee 'Alaa Muhammad Wa 'Alaa Aalihi Muhammad"

"...O ALLAH, give your salutation to our beloved Prophet Muhammad and his family... Amen."

To My Brother/Sister ROSS,

Thanks for your critical questions addressed to me!
Let me answer these:

1.Prophet Muhammad forbided us to throw our urine in the hole of the land/soil where there are nests of insects,reptiles or other animals. We CAN construct septic tanks for our feases/urine beneath the soil as long it is NOT harm the animals live beneath the soil.

2. We CANNOT see/hear/touch the JINN & ANGEL since they are 'Ghoib'(unseen/unheard/untouchable). But I can give You scientific approach! We know that the frequencies of sound/voice that we can hear/listen to is between 20Hz - 20,000Hz (correct me if I'm wrong since I'm not scientis). We also know that there are rays/lights which we CANNOT see because the frequencies or other factors (maybe the quantum physics can explain this). We also know that all of us CANNOT touch the cells/atoms of gasses (Oxygen,Hydrogen,etc). MAYBE ALLAH created JINNs & ANGELs like those substances so We CANNOT see/hear/touch them. ALLAH knows best !

3. Holy Qur'an, Shaheeh Hadeeth,Bible or Veddas told us there were Prophets/Avatars or Holy(Men-Women) which CAN see/hear/touch or even communicate with ANGELs & JINNs. BUT, this supernatural power is GIVEN by ALLAH FREE WITHOUT any ritual ceremonies/charmed/magics/astrology or fortune telling.

4. Why SHOULD I deny/accuse the MAN whose entire his life is TRUSTWORTHY,HUMBLE, FORGIVE to his enemies, HAVE EXCELLENT moral conduct in the BATTLEFIELD, CLOSE to the ORPHANS & the POOR people, etc???

Yes, He married a 9 year old girl e.g Aishah (May ALLAH Please Be Upon Her). Aishah is our 'Ummul Mu'minin (Mother of Believers). Aishah CAN memorize/narrate thousands sayings & actions of Prophet Muhammad since she was teenager. Aishah lived in humble or even poverty with her husband.

Why Westerners are so SILENT when they read the BIBLE ??? --> Prophet Lot committed to incets to his daughters, Prophet David committed to idoltery, Prophet Solomon had 700 WIVES & 300 CONCUBINES???

"Masha ALLAH (ALLAH is Great)!" I'm SORRY my brother/sister I DO NOT BELIEVE THIS! All prophets are INNOCENT. They ARE HOLY-Men! It is IMPOSSIBLE the prophets DID that EVIL acts!

I hope this answer your questions. May ALLH give YOU guidence to find the TRUTH of ISLAM. AMEN.

Arif Nurwahyu

Jakarta - INDONESIA

TO CONCERNED, TCNL:

Your behavior throughout this forum does not seem to properly reflect the teachings of Jesus Christ and I fail to see how such behavior can be considered in harmony with calling the Muslims to his Gospel by belittling and insulting them. Jesus taught with meekness, kindness, and respect for the "other", unlike the Pharisees and Sadducees. Be a "peacemaker", rather than one who overly criticizes. You must be one without sin, because you are casting stones at "so-called" Muslims who fail to live up to the teachings of their faith. And this is reprehensible behavior on your part, to say the least. The topic that is addressed by Mr. Shakir is noble and the response is noble as well. Did he state something about taking care of our environment that goes against the spirit and message of Jesus? I do not believe that he did and there is no problem for us to applaud him and his efforts in addressing this issue. Even though as Christians we may not agree with Muslim theology; it does not mean that every single thing that is put forth by a Muslim is wrong.

As-Salaamu Alaikum brothers and sisters,

Dealing with this issue should be a religious endeavor for the Muslim, Christian and Jew. It should be a problem for the Atheist, Agnostic, Wiccan, Pagan and any other person that lives on the planet called earth. Imam Zaid Shakir should be applauded for the information that he's given to Muslims and non Muslinms about this issue/crisis that affects us today and will become even worse in years to come. As Americans we should look at what the Bush Administration has done to the EPA. One of President Bush's strongest supporters, Christie Todd Whitman, left her position at the EPA because of the gross cuts in the yearly budget levied on the EPA. We should hold this administration accountable for what it has done to this country, Iraq and Afghanistan environmentally. Think about all the Uranium that's in the soil in Middle Eastern lands deposited there from bombs released from 30,000 feet in the air. People like Bob should get off their high horse and come on down to reality. That reality is that we are on this earth together. Christians, Jews and yes Bob even the Muslims. You can spew hatred all you want. That's why I get up everyday and put on a U.S. Air Force uniform for. See Mr America not only am I "one of them Muslims" I'm also a 10 year veteran. Please let us all take in what Brother Zaid had given us and try in our own personal way to make this a cleaner place to live and raise our families.

Ma-Salaama

Yah'ya

Dear Brother Zaid Shakir, who teaches with patience children needing much detail to fill in virtual blanks, in short your EXCELLENT exploration can be summed up as Colonialism expressed as Manefest Destiny. May Allah Bless your works and may your students develop the strength, courage, and drive needed to find Truth for that Truth shall set them free. I ask God for this, rejoice my Brother as do I even in great sorrow. With Love, Bruce

"First of all, as Muslims, we must realize that our religious teachings provide us with a valuable source of meaningful ecological consciousness."

But consciousness isn't enough is it? It doesn't take any kind of religious teachings to be conscious that we are dependent on our natural environment (although it's easy to forget in the airconditioned comfort of a Dubai mall). What's needed is a clear environmental responsibility. And this is what is missing in Islam's core text. The general apathy towards the environment in muslim countries is a direct effect of this.

Of all the verses Zaid has brought, not one provides a clear directive that man are stewards of the environment. To find this, you have to go back to the 'corrupted' earlier scriptures that clearly teach that the earth belongs to God and that man has a responsibility before God to look after it.

Instead in Islam we find that God has laid everything on for man - and if God has laid everything on, why should man bother at all. It's a recipe for environmental fatalism. Note that in the Quran it is God that teaches man the names of everything. In the bible man himself is given the responsibility for naming the creatures. He is put in the garden (which unlike in Islam is on earth) 'to look after it'.

In Quran 45:12-13 nature is clearly there for the benefit of man:
45:12 It is Allah Who has subjected the sea to you, that ships may sail through it by His command, that ye may seek of His Bounty, and that ye may be grateful.
13 And He has subjected to you, as from Him, all that is in the heavens and on earth: behold, in that are Signs indeed for those who reflect.
Y Ali

Against this is a vague command not to 'cheat the balance'. Hardly a ringing endorsement for environmental concern from the 'clear' book.

Skipping over the 'rich history' of Islam, there was something else that caught my eye:

"There are many non-Muslim groups that are active in addressing a large variety of environmental issues. We can both learn from their experiences and join with them to augment their strength. "

How are you going to achieve this without breaking 4:144:

O ye who believe take not for friends Unbelievers rather than Believers: do ye wish to offer Allah an open proof against yourselves?

Maybe you can join them without actually becoming friends.

Cheers,
sparky

...And most of islamic countries are still desert.

Arif Nurwahyu wrote:
4. The Prophet Muhammad also taught that One SHOULD NOT throw his/her urine in the hole in the soil ! WHY? According some hadeeths It COULD harm the animals (insects,small reptiles,etc) which live beneath the land/soil. Some Hadeeths also said that It COULD harm the JINNs (unseen/unheard/untouchable CREATURES) because they live beneath the land/soil.

Arif, where do you put your urine then ?
How would do you know if a JINN is harmed ?

Why do you believe all this crap considering the fact it came from someone who enjoyed wobbling in bed with a 9 year old girl ?

I this grotesque zealot Zaid Shakir still getting articles published here?

Salaam Alaikum,

While I appreciate Imam Zaid Shakir's article - I would have liked this one to be more experiential - rather quotes about how Islam is careful about the environment.

The problem I find is that it is easy to be aware intellectually about what is around us - but so long as we do not experience how the signs of Allah are really around us, and as John Muir once said: The clearest way into the Universe. is through a forest wilderness.

So long as we do not experience this reality --- I don't think we will take concrete steps to stop the enviornmental degredation around us ... This of-course includes, but not limited to wars - and the rotten exploitive capitalist system that thrives on expansion and devouring what we have left of our planet...

Our job, responsibility is much more profound, than merely talking about the fact of our responsibility.

Assalamu'alaykum Bothers & SIsters,

I wanto add this...

I am Sorry for the GRAMMATICAL ERRORS in my comments. This is due to the lack of my mastering in English Grammar. English IS NOT my mother tounge or official language in my country (INDONESIA). I hope this does not reduce the convinience of your reading to my comments.

Finally, I apologize for the grammatical errors...

Arif Nurwahyu