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By Asma Ahmad
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Pornography is a reality The Prophet, peace be upon him, said in a sahih hadith, when you see something wrong, you should speak out against it. Alhamdulillah for the article on pornography in your November 2007 issue because it is a reality, and Islam is the ultimate reality ordained by Allah that addresses the good and the bad in creation. Coming from a street hustler environment and as a da’ee (someone who educates others about Islam) in streets, prisons and jails in America for more than 30 years, I commend you for publishing an article on this topic that is many times avoided. It shows that Islam is a deen, a complete way of living that addresses everything. We need to address these issues because Islam is the solution if you apply it. Imam Muhammad Abdullah-Taif’tul’Islam Compton, Calif. May God make Pakistan the best nation As a young Pakistani American, my initial reaction to Bhutto’s death was that of shock and disbelief. Regardless of whether or not we agreed with her political views, the consent was unanimous that her killing was contrary to any standard of ethics. The ensuing, senseless violence by Pakistanis was also greeted with knowing nods – a reaction that, sadly, we have all come to accept. For many of us overseas Pakistanis, Pakistan has become just a topic of conversation at parties. We complain about its corruption, nepotism, lack of civil sense, lack of knowledge and, most importantly, lack of Islam. Each discussion ends with the hopeless assumption that this is simply how Pakistan is. With the Bhutto assassination, I was reminded of the power of prayer, and I said a prayer from my heart for the people and country of Pakistan. It dawned on me that Allah says to ask for anything and everything – His kingdom is vast. In addition to other ways in which we can help Pakistan, let us not underestimate the power of prayer. Remember Pakistan and our other countries of origin sincerely in your prayers. Ask Allah to make them the best of nations – an example of how true Muslim countries should be. A. Mohammad Via e-mail Re: Muslim women giving birth The InFocus feature story in the December 2007 issue on maintaining modesty while giving birth was very informative and interesting to read. It is important for our community to know its rights and to not be shy about politely requesting religious accommodations in hospitals. We should also keep in mind that while modesty is important to many women (Muslim and non-Muslim), it should not obstruct vital medical care when necessary. As the article mentioned, some Muslims who leave against medical advice if their requests are not fulfilled leave an impression with the non-Muslim community that "Islam is so strict that the mother’s life and unborn child could be risked as a measure of ensuring modesty." As a health care student, I’ve seen many prejudices in the health care community toward Muslims and Middle Easterners. One of the more prevalent stereotypes I encountered is that Middle Eastern and Muslim men are the dominant figures in family, often answering all the questions for "their women" in a health appointment. It’s important that we, as Muslims, do our part to dispel these myths so that our religion is not mischaracterized. Rania Sherrif Via e-mail |
