Significance Of Ashura – 10th Of Muharram
Significance Of Ashura – 10th Of Muharram By Sh. Abdool Rahman Khan بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم Ashura 2023, 1445 We begin reflection of Ashura by the Words of Allah SWT 4Indeed, Pharaoh transgressed in the land and divided its people into groups. He persecuted a group among them by slaughtering their sons and keeping their females alive. Surely, he was one of those who spread corruption (on earth) [28:4] Muharram is from the sacred months and comes at the beginning of the FOUR of them. Al Hassan Al Basree (May Allah have mercy on him) said: Allah Almighty opened the year with a sacred month, that is Muharram and concluded the year with a sacred month that is Dhul Hijjah. It is the only month that is known as “The Month of Allah” as in the Hadith where Rasoolullah SAS calls it : شَهْرُ اللَّهِ الْمُحَرَّمُ Narrated Abu Hurairah (RA), Rasoolullah SAS said: أَفْضَلُ الصِّيَامِ بَعْدَ رَمَضَانَ شَهْرُ اللَّهِ الْمُحَرَّمُ وَأَفْضَلُ الصَّلاَةِ بَعْدَ الْفَرِيضَةِ صَلاَةُ اللَّيْلِ مسلم The most excellent fast after Ramadan is God’s month. al-Muharram, and the most excellent prayer after what is prescribed is prayer during the night. Muslim Al-Qurtubi said: Fasting in Muharram is the best fasting, because it is the beginning of the year and it opens with fasting, which is the best of deeds. Ashura Ashura The 10th of Ashuraa is one of such virtuous days of Fasting A day when Allah SWT grants victory to o Prophet Musa (AS) and the Believers o While defeat was granted to falsehood – to Pharaoh and his people. This victory is still a matter of consideration for us. o We are still in a world of Pharaohs fighting Believers o So, we sure can learn from the struggle that Prophet Musa (AS) had with the ruthless Pharaoh. Thus, it is highly recommended for us to fast on this day out of gratitude to Allah A lesson how Allah SWT causes His righteous servants to inherit the earth. As Allah Almighty said: Quran وَعَدَ اللَّهُ الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا مِنكُمْ وَعَمِلُوا الصَّالِحَاتِ لَيَسْتَخْلِفَنَّهُمْ فِي الْأَرْضِ كَمَا اسْتَخْلَفَ الَّذِينَ مِن قَبْلِهِمْ Allāh has promised those who have believed among you and done righteous deeds that He will surely grant them authority on the earth just as He granted it to those before them An Nur (24:55) The martyrdom of the beloved grandson of Rasoolullah SAS We also recall another incident in the history of Islam which also took place on the 10th of Muharram and that is the martyrdom of Hussain (RA) the beloved grandson of Rasoolullah SAS. Hopefully next year we will discuss this in details by the grace of Allah SWT and this too is a struggle between the faith and sincerity of Hussain (RA) and insincerity and ruthlessness of those clamoring for power. The Messenger of Allah PBUH said: “Hussain is from me, and I am from Hussain . Allah loves whoever loves Hussain. Hussain is a generation among the generations.” (Tirmidhi) The Martyrdom of Imam Hussain (RA) – Click here to Read By Syed Abul Aala Maududi History of Prophet Musa (AS) Musa AS was a descendant from the lineage of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), and from the lineage of Prophet Yaqub (AS) Over time, the people forgot the message of Islam o Eventually they were overtaken by Pharoah – one of the mightiest rulers in history o Egypt was the rich superpower of the world at that time. However, he was also considered to be the most ruthless and oppressive leader in history and in addition he had power, authority and wealth. No wonder why his story is depicted in so many verses in The Quran as a warning to today’s Pharaoh. And a hope for Believers. Power and wealth made him exceedingly arrogant, and he went so far as to proclaim himself to be the lord of creation. Allah SWT says: Then he gathered his people and cried aloud, (23) Saying: “I am your lord, most high” (79:23-4) Pharaoh, together with his ministers, Qarun and Haman, ruled the land with an iron rule. Pharaoh heard that a leader will arise from Bani Israel As time went by, Pharaoh was informed of the legacy of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) which Bani Israel would often talk about that there would be a leader from Bani Israel who would again lead them to a position of strength. Pharaoh was greatly disturbed by these predictions, and as a precaution, ordered that all the pregnant women of Bani Israel be strictly monitored. No woman delivered a baby boy without the Pharaoh’s army knowing about it, and thus these newborns were immediately killed in cold-blooded, systematic infanticide. o Just imagine the horror! The murder of innocent babies! In the Quran Allah SWT says: 4Indeed, Pharaoh transgressed in the land and divided its people into groups. He persecuted a group among them by slaughtering their sons and keeping their females alive. Surely, he was one of those who spread corruption (on earth) [28:4] So, Pharaoh began this merciless killing of the young male babies o How often we see this repeated throughout generations by tyrants and even till this day and age of a so-called civilized world of human rights. Another evil of Pharaoh was to divide Bani Israel and enslaving them. Today the Muslim Ummah has also become victim of this plot. Ibaadallah! We are one Ummah, but unfortunately, we succumb to the same tactics what Pharaoh did to Bani Israel. Alternate killings of the boys So, Musa (AS) was born the year when the male infants were to be killed while his brother Harun was spared as Pharaoh was advised to alternate the years of killing to male born. According to all the decree of the land, Musa AS should have been killed. However, Musa’s (AS) life demonstrates o the power of the Qadr of Allah above all human planning no matter how powerful their plots are When the mother of Musa was pregnant for him, she went completely unnoticed. But
Respect The Quran Campaign
#Respect The Quran Campaign ICNA strongly condemns the burning of The Quran in front of a Masjid in Sweden on The Day of Eid-ul Adha. All this is happening under the guise of “freedom of speech”. In January of this year also, a Danish-Swedish man burnt a Quran in front of the Turkish embassy in Stockholm and that too was endorsed by the Swedish government. Such despicable act goes against the principles of respect, tolerance, and freedom of belief. Everyone should have the right to practice his or her religion peacefully. Such a vile act towards Islam’s most sacred text is deeply offensive and disrespectful to the beliefs and sentiments of over two billion Muslims worldwide. Insulting or demeaning other religions solely in the name of “free speech” is deeply hurtful, disrespectful, and can contribute to the discord in society. The west, time and again has proved that their support for freedom of speech is “selective”. Where on one hand they allow and support hateful acts like this one to happen while on the other hand they do not allow oppressed individuals and communities to raise their voice against the barbarism they face in countries like Palestine and Kashmir. While individuals may have the legal right to express their opinions, it is crucial to exercise that right responsibly and with sensitivity towards the beliefs and feelings of others and governments must not condone when it is more of a hate speech than free speech. If it was the other way around, there would have been a big hue and cry. But just for the records, it is prohibited in Islam to use verbal insults to deities of other faiths let alone to burn their sacred texts. If any true Muslim were to have done that, the Muslim world would outrightly condemn it. The timing of the burning of Islam’s holy book, during the important Muslim holiday of Eid al-Adha, is a further insult to the entire Muslim World. This happened on the Day when the sacrifice of Prophet Abraham (peace be upon him) of his son Prophet Ismail (peace be upon him) is commemorated. ICNA hopes that we can learn from one another, rather than using this so-called “freedom of speech” as a justification for spreading hate, inciting violence, or perpetuating discrimination. While the door of repentance is always open, the aggressor should know that such an act, Allah Almighty says in 9:63: “Do they not know that whoever opposes Allah and His Messenger will be in the Fire of Hell forever? That is the ultimate disgrace. JUMA KHUTBA TALKING POINTS بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم Khutbah: Why 2 Billion Muslims respect The Quran By Sh. Abdur Rahman Khan -ICNA قَدْ جَاءَكُم بَصَائِرُ مِن رَّبِّكُمْ ۖ فَمَنْ أَبْصَرَ فَلِنَفْسِهِ ۖ وَمَنْ عَمِيَ فَعَلَيْهَا ۚ وَمَا أَنَا عَلَيْكُم بِحَفِيظٍ ﴿١٠٤﴾ Indeed, enlightenment have come to you from your Lord. So whoever chooses to see, it is for their own good. But whoever chooses to be blind, it is to their own loss. And I (Muhammad PBUH) am not a guard over you. (6:104) Why 2 billion Muslims respect The Quran This Quran is everything that a Muslim needs to know about: Allah Almighty, The Creator of all that exists His greatness, His Names and Attributes, His Oneness and Uniqueness. How to live our life in this world What awaits us in the Hereafter It also encompasses understanding its impact on The souls, spirit, and hearts, along with its virtues and the virtues of reciting, learning, teaching, studying, and contemplating it. What is The Quran The Quran is the word of Allah: its letters and meanings. It is a revelation that is not created, and it began with Allah and will return to Him. It is the greatest miracle, and it is an act of worship through its recitation. It starts with the opening chapter, Al-Fatihah, and ends with Surat An-Naas. Allah spoke the words, and Jibril heard it from Allah Almighty, and Muhammad, the Messenger of Allah (PBUH), heard it from Jibril. The Companions heard it from Muhammad (SAS). Allah Almighty says: وَإِنَّهُ لَتَنزِيلُ رَبِّ الْعَالَمِينَ ﴿١٩٢﴾ نَزَلَ بِهِ الرُّوحُ الْأَمِينُ ﴿١٩٣﴾ عَلَىٰ قَلْبِكَ لِتَكُونَ مِنَ الْمُنذِرِينَ ﴿١٩٤﴾ بِلِسَانٍ عَرَبِيٍّ مُّبِينٍ ﴿١٩٥﴾ “And indeed, the Qur’an is the revelation of the Lord of the worlds. The Trustworthy Spirit (Jibreel) has brought it down upon your heart, [O Muhammad] – That you may be of the warners – In a clear Arabic language.” (26:192-195) Greatest Source of Truth The greatest source of truth is The Quran- The Book of Allah SWT Because of this, everything we do with regards to this Book becomes a source of blessings: Its recitation Listening to it Understanding it Teaching it to others Calling towards it Defending it Al-Bukhari and others reported that Rasoolullah SAS said: خيرُكم من تعلَّمَ القرآنَ وعلَّمَهُ The best of you are those who learn the Quran in of themselves and they try to teach it to others (Al-Bukhari) Unfortunately, many people reject this Quran before even reading it as Allah SWT says: بَلْ كَذَّبُوا بِمَا لَمْ يُحِيطُوا بِعِلْمِهِ وَلَمَّا يَأْتِـــهــِمْ تَأْوِيلُهُ ۚ كَذَٰلِكَ كَذَّبَ الَّذِينَ مِن قَبْلِهِمْ ۖ فَانظُرْ كَيْفَ كَانَ عَاقِبَةُ الظَّالِمِينَ ﴿٣٩﴾ But no! They deny without before comprehending it and even before it’s been fully made clear for them. In the same way, those who came before them also denied (the truth of their revelations). Look at the end of those who wronged themselves. (10:39) What has Allah SWT spoken about His Book? Let us see what Allah SWT has spoken about His Kalaam Can there is another text in life that can combine of all of the traits of perfection # 1: It is Light The Quran is described as being Noor – light Allah said: قَدْ جَاءَكُم مِّنَ اللَّهِ نُورٌ وَكِتَابٌ مُّبِينٌ ﴿١٥﴾ There has come to you from Allah a light and a clear Book (the Qur’ān) (5:15) Light in what sense? in every sense of the word light with respect to your vision light with respect to your speech light with respect to what you hear light with respect to the decisions you make light in your life
ICNA Condemns the Burning of The Quran in Sweden
ICNA Condemns the Burning of The Quran in Sweden ICNA strongly condemns the burning of The Quran in front of a Masjid in Sweden on The Day of Eid-ul Adha. All this is happening under the guise of “freedom of speech”. In January of this year also, a Danish-Swedish man burnt a Quran in front of the Turkish embassy in Stockholm and that too was endorsed by the Swedish government. Such despicable act goes against the principles of respect, tolerance, and freedom of belief. Everyone should have the right to practice his or her religion peacefully. Such a vile act towards Islam’s most sacred text is deeply offensive and disrespectful to the beliefs and sentiments of over two billion Muslims worldwide. Insulting or demeaning other religions solely in the name of “free speech” is deeply hurtful, disrespectful, and can contribute to the discord in society. The west, time and again has proved that their support for freedom of speech is “selective”. Where on one hand they allow and support hateful acts like this one to happen while on the other hand they do not allow oppressed individuals and communities to raise their voice against the barbarism they face in countries like Palestine and Kashmir. While individuals may have the legal right to express their opinions, it is crucial to exercise that right responsibly and with sensitivity towards the beliefs and feelings of others and governments must not condone when it is more of a hate speech than free speech. If it was the other way around, there would have been a big hue and cry. But just for the records, it is prohibited in Islam to use verbal insults to deities of other faiths let alone to burn their sacred texts. If any true Muslim were to have done that, the Muslim world would outrightly condemn it. The timing of the burning of Islam’s holy book, during the important Muslim holiday of Eid al-Adha, is a further insult to the entire Muslim World. This happened on the Day when the sacrifice of Prophet Abraham (peace be upon him) of his son Prophet Ismail (peace be upon him) is commemorated. ICNA hopes that we can learn from one another, rather than using this so-called “freedom of speech” as a justification for spreading hate, inciting violence, or perpetuating discrimination. While the door of repentance is always open, the aggressor should know that such an act, Allah Almighty says in 9:63: “Do they not know that whoever opposes Allah and His Messenger will be in the Fire of Hell forever? That is the ultimate disgrace.”
Statement of Condemnation on the attack on Maryam Khan
Statement of Condemnation on the attack on Maryam Khan Islamic Circle of North America – ICNA strongly condemns the recent attack on State Representative Maryam Khan in Connecticut just after the Eid-ul Adha prayer, Wednesday June 28th, 2023. Maryam Khan, was elected in a special election in 2022 to represent the state’s 5th District, becoming the first Muslim member and the first Muslim woman to the Connecticut House. For such a great achievement, Ms. Khan received a special award by Islamic Circle of North America- ICNA at its Annual National Convention. Maryam Khan has dedicated her time and efforts towards serving and working for the betterment of her community. As such, it is deeply distressing to witness an elected representative being subjected to harm simply for her religious beliefs and practices. This act of violence is not only a direct assault on Ms. Khan as an elected official, but also an attack on religious freedom and the principles of tolerance and coexistence that we cherish as a society. The attack on her, as a Muslim woman and especially after a prayer service, is deeply distressing and goes against the values of respect, understanding, and religious freedom that we hold dear as Americans. Sadly enough, her children had to witness this brutal attack. There is need for more security at such large gatherings and ICNA demands that a thorough investigation into this heinous crime be carried out. We expect nothing less than the full force of the law and maximum penalty be handed down to her attacker. Islamic Circle of North America -ICNA extends its thoughts, prayers, and solidarity to Lawmaker Maryam Khan and her family during this challenging period. May Allah SWT grant her immense rewards for her ordeals and bless her with a speedy and complete recovery.
Eid Al Adha 2023
What comes to mind when you hear or read the word “sacrifice”? What about “surrender”? Historically, the word sacrifice, from the Latin sacrificus, or “making sacred,” generally referred to an offering someone would give to a deity. In Islam, we believe the very practice itself goes back to the first human beings, as we have in the Qur’an the story of Adam’s two sons, one whose ritual sacrifice (qurbaana) was accepted and the other rejected (Qur’an 5:27). In recent times, the word “sacrifice” has taken on a more secular meaning in most places, such as the act of giving something up with the possibility of attaining something greater in value, or to avoid some type of loss. In a sense, the former meaning includes the latter, as a literal offering is an act of devotion in which something of value is given up for something greater in return (e.g., the pleasure of God, protection from harm, etc.). In Arabic, the word referenced is usually nahr (sacrifice), such as Yawm al-Nahr (the Day of Sacrifice), which refers to the day of Eid al-Adha on which the hajj pilgrims offer a sacrifice as one of many ritual steps for hajj. This sacrifice is to commemorate the sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), who was willing to sacrifice his own son at the command of Allah. The word nahr in the Qur’an is found in only one form in the entire Qur’an, and in the shortest surah, “so pray to your Lord and sacrifice” (Qur’an 108:2). It’s reasonable to opine about this ayah that the greatest physical act of worship, prayer, is pointedly paired with another of the greatest acts of worship, the sacrificial offering that takes place as the hajj concludes. This offering to Allah is the sacrifice of an animal (qurbani) or the financial contribution to that. A good portion of the meat is distributed to the poor. The pairing of acts together in the Qur’an is undoubtedly intentional, and a cause for reflection. Add to that, in our reflection upon verse 108:2, another verse, 22:37, in which we are told “Neither their meat nor blood reaches Allah. Rather, it is your piety (taqwa) that reaches Him…” In chess, one of the most popular board games in the world, players oftentimes sacrifice their own pieces in order to gain an advantage or to win the match altogether. In fact, it is not uncommon to sacrifice one’s most valuable piece, the queen, in order to win the entire match. In an educational setting, students sacrifice their time – precious as it is – in order to learn, attain certain grades, or for other benefits. In a work setting people sacrifice their time and other potential opportunities in life, in order to advance a business service or product, a nonprofit cause, or a humanitarian campaign, because they see value in it worth pursuing. Likewise, in relationships, husbands and wives recognize that all healthy marriages come with sacrifice. People sacrifice in order to get married as well as to maintain a healthy marriage. Similarly, parents sacrifice a great deal of time, energy, money, and worldly goals in order to raise their children, because they see some benefit or value in it, such as a continuous charity (ṣadaqah jariyah) for every righteous child raised, or for love, or other similar benefits. Continue Reading…
Harris Poll
Introduction We are pleased to present the findings of our Family Values and Gender Roles Snapshot, a comprehensive online survey conducted on our behalf by The Harris Poll. This survey provides valuable insights into the attitudes and beliefs of Americans as we delve into the realms of faith, changing social norms, and their profound impact on our society. This snapshot provides a unique window into the collective consciousness of Americans, offering a deeper understanding of how faith and evolving social norms shape our values and perceptions. By examining the intricate interplay between tradition and progress, we aim to shed light on the dynamic landscape of family values and gender roles in contemporary American society. The Family Values and Gender Roles Snapshot is an informative exploration of important topics, offering thought-provoking insights that challenge preconceived notions and inspire meaningful conversations. Our aim is to foster a greater understanding of the complex dynamics shaping our society today. FOR DONATION, CALL OUR HOTLINE (855) 855-ICNA donate now Changes In Social Norms Changing Social Norms: Redefining the Path to Happily Ever After Did you know that a staggering 74% of Americans believe that shifting social norms have made marriage less appealing to younger generations? From a growing focus on education and career growth to increased acceptance of cohabitation without being married, these factors are reshaping our perception of lifelong commitment. In fact, 26% of Americans strongly agree with this observation, highlighting the depth of sentiment surrounding cultural shifts. The Appeal of Marriage in Younger Generations Astonishingly, over 7 in 10 Americans aged 18-44 (73%) acknowledge that these evolving social norms have made marriage less appealing for younger generations Bridging the Generation Gap: Diverse Perspectives on Marriage When examining the survey data, a fascinating trend emerges. 80% of Americans aged 65 and above concur with the statement, whereas 72% of Americans aged 18-54 share this sentiment. These findings underline a significant generational divide in how changing social norms influence attitudes toward marriage. The Role of Faith: Insights from Religious Communities Interestingly, the survey also delved into the influence of religious beliefs on marriage attitudes. The results revealed that religious Americans are more likely than non-religious Americans to agree that changing social norms have made it less appealing for younger generations to get married (76% vs 69%). This highlights the diverse perspectives that arise from different spiritual beliefs. If you want to report out that language it would be Religious Americans are more likely than non-religious Americans to agree….(76% vs. 69) The Role of Religion: Religion is important in upholding traditional family values! Religion has significant impact on traditional family values. A substantial 69% of Americans believe that religion plays an important role in preserving these values, with 32% strongly agreeing. 🙏 Age and Beliefs: Shaping Perspectives Interestingly, Americans aged 35-44 (71%) and those aged 55+ (75%) are more likely to agree compared to individuals aged 18-34 and 45-54 (62% each). Some place a higher emphasis on religion in upholding traditional family values. 💪 The Power of Conviction: Influence of Religious Beliefs The data also reveals that religious individuals significantly align with the importance of religion in upholding traditional family values. A striking 81% of religious Americans agree, in contrast to only 35% of non-religious individuals. Moreover, the disparity continues with 40% of religious individuals strongly agreeing, compared to just 10% among their non-religious counterparts. Conflicts with Americans aged 35-44 agreeing-change to “some generations” or remove 35-44 part The Impact of Traditional Family Values: A Predicted Rise in Divorce Rates An overwhelming two-thirds (67%) of Americans believe that the U.S. will experience an increase in divorce rates due to this lack of commitment, with 29% strongly agreeing. 🔍 Perspectives by Age Group: Insights Unveiled When examining the data by age group, it becomes apparent that Americans aged 55+ (69%) are more likely to agree compared to those aged 18-34 (62%). This generational suggests varying perceptions regarding the connection between traditional family values and divorce rates. 🙏The Influence of Religious Beliefs: A Crucial Factor Religious affiliation plays a significant role in shaping opinions on this matter. A substantial 72% of religious Americans agree, while only 52% of non-religious individuals share the same sentiment. The disparity continues, with 33% of religious Americans strongly agreeing, in contrast to 20% among non-religious individuals. The Influence of Individualism and Changing Gender Roles on Traditional Family Values A majority of Americans, over 3 in 5 (64%), believe that individualism in American culture has contributed to the decline of these values, with 23% strongly agreeing. 🤷♂️ Gender Differences: Diverse Perspectives When examining the data, it becomes apparent that men are more likely than women to strongly agree with this statement (25% vs. 21%). These varying perspectives shed light on the complex relationship between individualism and traditional family values. 🙏 Religion and Beliefs: Shaping Perceptions Religious beliefs play a significant role in shaping opinions on this matter. A substantial 68% of religious Americans agree, in contrast to 53% of non-religious individuals. The disparity continues, with 25% of religious Americans strongly agreeing, compared to only 16% among non-religious individuals. 🚻 Shifting Gender Roles: A Contributing Factor Additionally, over 3 in 5 Americans (63%) believe that changing attitudes towards traditional gender roles have also contributed to the decline in traditional family values. Interestingly, men are more likely than women to agree with this statement (67% vs. 59%), with almost one-third of men (32%) strongly agreeing compared to 23% of women. SURVEY METHODOLOGY This survey was conducted online within the United States by The Harris Poll on behalf of the Islamic Circle of North America between May 4-8, 2023, among 2,053 U.S. adults ages 18+. Results were weighted where necessary by age, gender, race/ethnicity, region, education, marital status, household size, household income, and propensity to be online, to bring them in line with their actual proportions in the population. Respondents for this survey were selected from among those who have agreed to participate in our surveys. The sampling precision of Harris online polls is measured by
Inspiring Highlights from the Islamic Circle of North America Conference!
Thrilled to share incredible moments from the recent ICNA conference! It was a resounding success, fostering community engagement and knowledge sharing. Let’s dive into some highlights that made it truly special. Family Values and Gender Roles Snapshot: The conference started with the announcement of a comprehensive survey. The findings were astounding! 69% of Americans believe religion plays a crucial role in preserving family values. Even the Washington Times took notice! Matrimonial Session: One of the most anticipated events! It attracted countless individuals seeking meaningful connections within our community. The response was overwhelming, with enthusiastic participation and a vibrant atmosphere that exemplified unity. Diverse Speakers and Engaging Sessions: The conference featured 189 renowned experts who delivered captivating talks and facilitated 180 engaging sessions. Topics covered a wide range of interests and importance to our community. Knowledge was shared and minds were inspired! Vibrant Bazar: The conference buzzed with a bustling Bazar, featuring 193 talented vendors showcasing their crafts and products. Attendees explored unique items, supported local businesses, and engaged in enriching cultural exchanges. It was an experience like no other! Live Streaming and Qiyamul Layl: Accessibility was a priority! The conference offered live streaming options, allowing remote participation and benefiting from enlightening content. A special Qiyamul Layl session created a tranquil environment for night prayers and reflection. Youth Conference: Our dynamic youth conference drew over 7000 enthusiastic participants! The involvement of our younger generation demonstrated their passion, energy, and dedication to shaping the future of our community. The future is indeed in good hands! The convention received coverage from esteemed news outlets such as ABC News, Daily Pakistan, Turkish Media, and more. The impact extended far and wide, spreading the positive message of unity and empowerment. If you have any questions or want to delve deeper into specific aspects of the conference, feel free to reach out. We are here to provide further information and address inquiries. Thank you for your continued support! Stay tuned for more inspiring updates from ICNA. Together, we are building a stronger, more united community! 🤝🕌✨ #ICNACON2023
Eid Mubarak!
All praises are due to Allah ﷻ alone. On behalf of Islamic Circle of North America – ICNA, I would like to convey Eid greetings and best wishes to all the brothers and sisters in Islam. We ask Allah SWT to accept our Ibadah, our prostration, our Qiyam and our Siam(fasting), and all the duas which we have made during this holy month of Ramadhan. We thank Allah SWT for giving us an opportunity to spend this month of Ramadhan in peace and in harmony. But my brothers and sisters, there are hundreds and thousands of Muslims across the world who are facing hardship and oppression. The images from Aqsa of young men with their faces down and hand-tied to the untold stories of scholars and individuals who are working for the establishment of the Deen of Allah SWT, there is another year when they will be spending their Eid behind bars. Let’s pray together that Allah SWT relieves their difficulties and hardships. We at ICNA, Insha Allah, will continue our efforts to help relieve the pain and misery of brothers and sisters throughout the world, and also we believe in collective success. Hence ICNA will continue its struggle to revive the moral, ethical, and family values in the society where we live in. In the end, I will request you to please remember ICNA and its workers into your duas. Also, my dear Muslim Families! The much-awaited ICNA convention is coming and better than ever! This year, on May 27th-29th, join us in Baltimore for a memorable experience you won’t want to miss. We’ve already received numerous registrations, and we can’t wait to see you all, Insha Allah. As we celebrate this joyous occasion, we extend our warmest wishes for a blessed and happy Eid Mubarak from all of us at ICNA. Your Brother in Islam, Mohsin Ansari, MDPresident Islamic Circle of North America (ICNA) Donate Now!
ICNA Condemns the violence at Masjid-ul Aqsa by Israeli forces!
Issued on: 4/6/2023 ICNA joins the rest of the world in their condemnations following the recent violence and attacks on Palestinians by Israeli security forces during this holy Month of Ramadhan. It is a despicable and cowardly act of violence that has caused harm and fear to innocent worshippers. It is reported that Israeli police carried out this raid which resulted in least 12 Palestinians injured and around 400 innocent Palestinians arrested and are still in Israeli custody. This seems to be a yearly onslaught of Israeli forces to Palestinian Muslims during the holiest time of the year and at Islam’s third holiest site. This act of brutality without any provocation is in total violation of international laws. So once again, Israel shows a total disregard for any international law. Places of worship should be respected and protected as they represent a sacred space for people of different faiths to practice their religion in peace. Such violent acts are unacceptable and go against the values of compassion, tolerance, and respect for human life and values that we should all uphold. For this reason, we Muslims have condemned when synagogues are desecrated or Jews killed in their places of worship. ICNA calls on the government of the USA and the UN to bring the Netanyahu’s government to accountability the same way they bring Putin to accountability for waging a war with Ukraine. They cannot raise their voices when civilians are killed in Ukraine and remain absolutely silent and blinded to the atrocities of the Palestinian people that have been going on for years. There is only one word that describes that and it is: hypocrisy! In this Blessed Month of Ramadhan, we ask Allah SWT for His help against the Israeli brutality. We stand in solidarity with our Palestinian brothers and sisters and we say: Free Free Palestine! Independent Palestine! (Photo Credit: Reuters)
