#hajj steps

[semnatv2]

هل يجب الحج على المديون #hajj #hajj2024 #macca #madinah #kabah #muslim #umrah حج_2024, #مكة #المدين

#هل #يجب #الحج #على #المديون #hajj #hajj2024 #macca #madinah #kabah #muslim #umrah #حج_2024 #مكة #المدين #حج, #حج2024, #مكة, #المدينة, #كعبة, #مسلم, #عمرة, #إسلام, #رحلةحج, #مبارك, #غفرانالذنوب, #اركانالحج, #نسكالحج, #طواف, #سعي, #وقوفعرفة, #مزدلفة, #منى, #رميالجمرة, #تحلقالحاج, #تقصير, #تلبية, #لبيكاللهملبيك, #الحجمبشربالجنة, #الحجاركانوواجبات, #الحجمستحبات, #الحجاتباعالهدي, #الحجاروعرحلة,…

[ahgroup-pk]

https://ahgroup-pk.com/blog/details-method-hajj-rituals/

[zibah-ho]

the one and only time my brother has ever walked in on me reading namaz is when wet hair in a lopsided bun and a pastel hijab make my head look like a melted ice cream cone :)

[aboudalhaj]

The Rising Cost of Living in Gaza: A Struggle for Basic Necessities Amid War and Blockade

The escalating cost of living continues to place an unbearable burden on individuals and families in areas ravaged by conflict and embargoes. The image provided paints a stark picture of the harsh reality faced by communities—where even the most basic necessities come at exorbitant prices. Essential items such as cooking oil, sugar, and basic hygiene products are not only overpriced but often scarce due to the ongoing war and economic blockade.

For example, a modest bottle of sunflower oil is priced at an astounding $14.72, while a small packet of sugar costs $9.37. Potatoes and onions, once staple and affordable foods, now cost $8.03 each. Even basic hygiene products like soap and tahini are priced at $5.89 and $13.38, respectively. These prices, which continue to climb, highlight a dire economic situation that makes survival a daily struggle for countless individuals.

The root causes of this crisis lie in the devastating impact of war and prolonged blockades that have crippled local economies, destroyed infrastructure, and limited access to international markets. Local production is stifled, and imports are restricted, leading to inflation and a scarcity of goods. The situation is further exacerbated by unemployment and widespread poverty, leaving many unable to afford even the bare minimum required for sustenance.

In addition to food and hygiene, other sectors such as healthcare and clothing are also affected. Many families cannot afford proper medical treatment or seasonal clothing, leaving them vulnerable to illness and harsh weather conditions. The lack of access to affordable and quality resources perpetuates a cycle of poverty, malnutrition, and disease, particularly among children and the elderly.

The international community must recognize the severity of this humanitarian crisis and take action to alleviate the suffering. Lifting restrictions, providing financial aid, and ensuring the flow of essential goods are critical steps toward restoring dignity and hope to those affected. Until then, millions will continue to live under the shadow of deprivation, with the rising cost of living as an ever-present reminder of their plight.

I urge you to take a stand in solidarity with the people of Gaza. My family, like countless others, is struggling to survive these harsh conditions. You can help by donating to our campaign or simply sharing it with others to raise awareness. Together, we can bring hope and support to those in need.

✅ My Campaign ✅ 🔍Vetted by @90-ghost here 🔍✅️Vetted by @gazavetters, my number verified on the list is ( #300 )✅️ here

@ot3 @mangocheesecakes @good-old-gossip @dragon-master-kai @vakarians-babe @prinnay @neptunerings @paper-mario-wiki @newsfrom-theworld @a-scary-lack-of-common-sense @magnus-rhymes-with-swagness-blog @buttercuparry @westaysilly @sunflowersmoths@nieyaoevents @finalgirlabigailhobbs @normal-thoughts-official @flower-tea-fairies @mephal @mothfishing @theaethernetconnection @90-ghost @gaza-evacuation-funds @northgazaupdates2@treeen@keikuri@archivist-goldfish @loook-back-at-it @lookineedsleep@a-scary-lack-of-common-sense@ot3 @reminded @neechees @ankle-beez @paper-mario-wiki @khanger@treesbian @pigswithwings @mobiused @poss-um @possiblythebesteyesintheworld @noble-kale @a-shade-of-blue @chokulit @neptunerings @heydreamchild @dlxxv-vetted-donations @segamascott

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[workingclasshistory]

On this day, 21 February 1965, el-Hajj Malik el-Shabazz, better known as Malcolm X, instrumental speaker and activist of the US civil rights and Black power movements, was assassinated while preparing to address a crowd of supporters in New York. Formerly a member of the Nation of Islam (NoI), Malcolm X publicly split with the organisation due to issues such as NoI leader Elijah Mohammed failing to approve action to respond to police attacks on Black Muslims in Los Angeles. Instead he founded his own mosque, as well as the secular Organization of Afro-American Unity. Already a target of both the police and FBI, NoI activist Louis Farrakhan also declared Malcolm to be "worthy of death". On February 21, Malcolm stepped up to speak at the Audubon ballroom when he was shot. Mujahid Abdul Halim, a NoI member from New Jersey was apprehended fleeing the scene with a clip from one of the murder weapons, and admitted his participation in the killing. However, two other Black Muslims from the Harlem mosque were subsequently arrested and convicted of the crime: Khalil Islam and Muhamad Abdul Abdul Aziz. This was despite a lack of evidence and the fact that they, and Halim, protested their innocence. In an effort to win the freedom for Islam and Aziz, Halim even filed affidavits naming his four co-conspirators – all from the New Jersey mosque. But prosecutors repeatedly refused to reopen the case. After the case gained new attention following the 2020 release of a Netflix documentary series on the murder, Manhattan district attorney Cyrus Vance Jr agreed to review the case. The review revealed that evidence suggesting Islam and Aziz were innocent had been withheld from the defence, in part following pressure from FBI director J Edgar Hoover. Their convictions were eventually overturned in November 2021. More info, sources and map on our Stories web app: https://stories.workingclasshistory.com/article/9371/assassination-of-malcolm-x https://www.facebook.com/workingclasshistory/photos/a.1819457841572691/2215199071998564/?type=3

[bipolarman2022]

**Title: "The Transformation of Miguel"**

**Chapter 1: A Chance Encounter**

Miguel, a young Spaniard from a well-to-do family, had spent his life pursuing knowledge in the cloisters of academia. He had always been curious, seeking answers in books of philosophy and theology, but lately, nothing seemed to satisfy his thirst for understanding. The life he led, filled with Western studies and family traditions, felt incomplete to him, lacking the spiritual depth he yearned for within.

One day, while walking through the bustling streets of Córdoba, Miguel came across a bazaar full of colors and sounds he had never experienced before. There, among the stalls of spices and fabrics, he saw a sign that read: “Classes on the Quran and Islamic Philosophy.” Intrigued by the idea of learning about a culture and religion so foreign to his life, Miguel decided to attend one of these classes, driven by his insatiable curiosity.

**Chapter 2: The Arab Teacher**

The class was held in a small madrasa located in a quiet alley. Upon entering, Miguel was greeted by Ahmed, an Arab teacher with an imposing presence and an air of deep wisdom. Ahmed was known throughout Córdoba not only for his vast knowledge of the Quran but also for his ability to convey the essence of Islam with patience and clarity.

Miguel, with his expression of wonder and naivety, began attending the daily lessons. At first, he didn’t understand much about the Quranic verses or the Muslim customs that Ahmed taught with such passion. But little by little, Ahmed’s enthusiasm and devotion began to awaken in Miguel a genuine interest in understanding Islam beyond its stereotypes.

**Chapter 3: The First Steps in Islam**

Miguel was fascinated by the teachings of the Quran and the wisdom contained in its words. He marveled at how Ahmed explained the importance of inner peace, submission to Allah’s will, and brotherhood among believers. The teacher taught him about the Five Pillars of Islam: Shahada (the profession of faith), Salat (prayer), Zakat (charity), Sawm (fasting during Ramadan), and Hajj (pilgrimage to Mecca). Each lesson drew him deeper into a state of awe and respect for this new way of life.

Miguel, naive in many aspects of Muslim life, would ask questions that seemed obvious to Ahmed. But the teacher, with infinite patience, always answered, not with mockery but with a sincere desire to share his faith. Gradually, Miguel began to participate in prayers, fast during Ramadan, and learn Quranic verses in Arabic, something he never would have imagined doing before.

**Chapter 4: The Growing Fascination**

As the months passed, Miguel felt increasingly drawn to Ahmed, not just because of his wisdom but also for his charisma and deep sense of inner peace. Ahmed spoke to him about the ways of the Prophet Muhammad, explaining how Islam was not just a religion but a way of life that embraced justice, compassion, and equality. Miguel felt he had finally found something that filled the void in his heart.

Ahmed also noticed something special in Miguel. He saw not just a student eager for knowledge but someone with the potential to be a great defender of the faith. He taught Miguel to recite the Quran, interpret its meanings, and live according to the principles of Islam. Each lesson was an open door to a new world, full of meaning and purpose.

**Chapter 5: A New Path**

One day, after an intense study session, Miguel approached Ahmed with a decision he had been contemplating for weeks. "I want to convert to Islam," he declared with determination. "I want to follow the path of Allah and be like you, someone who lives with purpose and inner peace."

Ahmed smiled with a mix of pride and affection. He knew that Miguel was ready to take this important step. He took him to the mosque, where Miguel recited the Shahada with tears in his eyes, surrounded by his new teacher and his new brothers in faith.

**Chapter 6: Leaving Everything Behind**

Miguel, now known as Jamal, decided to leave behind his previous life, his old beliefs, and his family, who never understood his fascination with Islam. He left everything for this new life, for his new brothers, and above all, for Ahmed, who had become more than a teacher to him. Ahmed was now his mentor, his spiritual guide, and the reflection of everything Jamal wanted to be.

Every day, Jamal learned more about Muslim customs. He helped those in need, participated in philosophical debates at the madrasa, and dedicated himself to memorizing the Quran. His transformation was complete; he was no longer the naive young man who had first entered the bazaar in Córdoba but a man with a mission: to live fully in Islam.

**Epilogue: A Devoted Disciple**

Jamal's story became a legend in Córdoba, an example of how faith and devotion can transform even the most skeptical of hearts. Under Ahmed's guidance, Jamal not only found a new purpose but also became a teacher in his own right, teaching others about the beauty of Islam, always with the memory of his own transformation in his heart.

And so, Ahmed's library remained a beacon of light and wisdom in Córdoba, a place where seekers of knowledge, regardless of their origin, could find the path to true peace and understanding.

[lifeofresulullah]

The Life of The Prophet Muhammad(pbuh):  Farewell Hajj and the Death of the Prophet (pbuh)

Farewell Hajj

(10th Year of the Migration, the month of Dhul-Hijjah  / AD 632, March)

It was the 10th year of the Migration, the month of Dhul-Qada.

The Messenger of God made preparations for hajj. He also ordered the Muslims in Madinah to make preparations for hajj. In addition, he sent Madinah.

Upon this news, thousands of Muslims who wanted go to hajj started to flood into Madinah. Soon, Madinah was full of the light of Islam and luminous faces. Tents were set up around Madinah.

Muslims were experiencing a unique atmosphere of a festival and the Messenger of God was praising and thanking God Almighty in the peace and happiness of seeing the magnificent result of the great cause that he conveyed to people. 

Leaving Madinah

There were five days left for the end of the month of Dhul-Qada. It was Saturday.

The Messenger of God appointed Abu Duja­na as-Saidi as his deputy in  Madinah. He had a bath in his house. He wore some nice perfume and put on new clothes. He left his house toward noon and went to the mosque. He led the noon prayer.

The Prophet set off from Madinah with more than one hundred thousand Muslims who surrounded him like luminous circles and reached Dhul-Hulayfa. He spent the night there with his great congregation. 

The next day, he performed the noon prayer and entered ihram there. Then, he headed toward Makkah with his Companions, each of whom is a star of the humanity.

The Messenger of God was on his camel, Qasva. More than one hundred thousand Companions were like planets that did not lose their orbits around the spiritual sun. They uttered talbiyah: “Labbayk! “Labbayk! Allahumma labbayk! Lab­bay­ka la sharika laka Llabbayk! Innal hamda wan’ni­ma­ta la­ka wa’l-mulka la sharika laka.” (Here I am, O God, here I am. Here I am, You have no partner, here I am. Verily all praise and blessings are Yours, and all sovereignty, You have no partner.)

It was as if the earth was like a single mouth and repeating the same “talbiyah” with hundreds of thousands of tongues. The earth and the sky were virtually sharing the joy and the excitement of the Messenger of God and his Companions. 

Arriving in Makkah

It was Monday, the fourth of the month of Dhul-Hijjah, early in the morning.

The Messenger of God entered Makkah from the upper part of the city called Thaniyyatu’u-Kada with more than one hundred thousand Muslims. When he saw the magnificent Kaaba, the Prophet prayed as follows: “O my Lord! Increase the magnificence, honor and grandeur of this magnificent Kaaba.

Then, the Prophet reached Baytullah. He made istilam toHajaru’l-Aswad and started to circumambulate the Kaaba from that corner. During the first three laps of the circumambulation, he took short steps and jerked his shoulders, walking fast and pompously; he walked slowly during the remaining four laps of the circumambulation.   

After completing the circumambulation by walking around the Kaaba seven times, he went to the Station of Ib­rahim. He performed a prayer of two rak’ahs there. Then, he made istilam to Hajaru’l-Aswad again. Meanwhile, he said to Hazrat Umar, “O Umar! You are strong. Do not shoulder others in order to touch Hajaru’l-Aswad. Do not disturb people especially weak ones. If there are not many people around, touch it. If it is very crowded, greet and kiss it from a distance with your hands; utter, ‘La ilaha illalah and Allahu akbar’.”

The Prophet Performs Sa’y

The Messenger of God went up to Safa Hill after that. He praised and thanked God Almighty there. Then, he came down and performed sa’y between Safa and Marwa seven times.

Going to Mina

After staying in Makkah on Sunday, Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, the Messenger of God went to Mina on Thursday. He performed the noon, afternoon, evening and night prayers there in congregation. He spent the night there. On Friday, the ninth of Dhul-Hijjah, he set off from Minah after performing the morning prayer and headed toward Arafat. 

The earth and the sky were resounding with the talbiyahs uttered by the Companions.

[writerfarzanatutul]

To All the Muslim Women

In today's world, we see a rising trend among many women, including Muslim women, who seek education and career opportunities driven by fear:

What if my husband dies?

What if my husband abuses me?

What if he cheats on me?

While these fears may stem from real societal issues, centering one's entire purpose of education and career on such "what ifs" is problematic from an Islamic perspective. Tawakkul, or placing our complete trust in Allah, is an essential part of our faith. Muslims are encouraged to plan and strive for the best, but at the same time, we must believe that everything is ultimately in Allah's control.

The story of Hajar (alaihi as-salam) is an excellent example of this level of trust. When Prophet Ibrahim (alaihi as-salam) left her in the barren desert of Makkah with her infant son Isma’il, she asked him, "Has Allah commanded you to do this?" When he affirmed, she did not question or complain but instead said, “Then Allah will not abandon us.” She placed her trust entirely in Allah, despite the harshness of her situation.

Allah recounts how, through Hajar's steadfast faith and patience, her efforts in seeking water for her child were not only rewarded but immortalized. Her running between the hills of Safa and Marwa became an essential ritual of Hajj and Umrah, known as Sa’i.

"فَإِنَّ مَعَ الْعُسْرِ يُسْرًا إِنَّ مَعَ الْعُسْرِ يُسْرًا" "For indeed, with hardship [will be] ease. Indeed, with hardship [will be] ease." Quran 94:5-6

This powerful story teaches us that no trial is meaningless, and our struggles are seen by Allah, who is Al-Latif (The Subtle, The Kind). When we endure trials with patience and trust in Him, He not only alleviates our difficulties but elevates us, as He did with Hajar.

Hajar (alaihi as-salam) was not a prophet but a regular person like you and me. Yet, through her Tawakkul, Allah honored her immensely. Allah mentions in the Qur'an that those who are patient and trust Him will be greatly rewarded:

"وَمَن يَتَّقِ اللَّهَ يَجْعَل لَّهُ مَخْرَجًا. وَيَرْزُقْهُ مِنْ حَيْثُ لَا يَحْتَسِبُ" "And whoever fears Allah – He will make for him a way out. And will provide for him from where he does not expect." Quran 65:2-3

This verse reminds us that our provision and our safety do not come from our efforts alone, nor from our spouses or jobs. Rather, they come from Allah, who can provide from sources we never imagined. So, while it is good to be educated and seek lawful work, we should remember that our sustenance and protection are not in the hands of anyone but Allah.

Now, let us consider the flip side of the "what ifs" that often drive people into a false sense of security through worldly means.

What if you get a high-paying job but meet a toxic or corrupt work environment?

What if, God forbid, you get into an accident and are unable to work?

What if you face severe health challenges and are unable to continue?

These scenarios remind us that life is uncertain, and no amount of planning can shield us from Allah's decree. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “If you were to place your trust in Allah truly, He would provide for you as He provides for the birds; they go out in the morning hungry and return full.” (Tirmidhi)

The lesson is clear: We must strive, but ultimately place our reliance on Allah, not our means, education, or jobs. As Allah says:

"إِنَّ اللَّهَ هُوَ الرَّزَّاقُ ذُو الْقُوَّةِ الْمَتِينُ" "Indeed, it is Allah who is the [continual] Provider, the firm possessor of strength." Quran 51:58

Yes, planning for our future is wise, but it should not be driven by fear of hypothetical situations, nor should it be rooted in distrust of Allah's plan. The most important step is to shift our intention (niyyah). Our pursuit of education or career should be for the sake of pleasing Allah, benefiting society, and fulfilling our roles as Muslims, not out of anxiety over possible future difficulties.

May Allah strengthen our hearts, increase our trust in Him, and grant us the strength to face life's challenges with faith.

[loveyouallah]

﷽

الْحَمْدُ لِلَّهِ الَّذِي بِنِعْمَتِهِ تَتِمُّ الصَّالِحَاتُ | اللَّهُمَّ صَلِّ عَلَى مُحَمَّدٍ وَعَلَى آلِ مُحَمَّدٍ

Introduction to Ihya Ulumuddin. Reflection #1 14/1

الْحَمْدُ اللَّهِ عَلَى نِعْمَةِ الإسلامِ وَالإِيْمَا وَكَفَى بِهَا نِعْمَةِ

Praise be to Allah for the bestowal of faith and Islam. Enough [for me] are they as a bestowal.

The 5 Pillars:

Shahadah. Salah. Zakat. Sawm. Hajj.

As Muslims, these are the five obligations that we are required to fulfill. But what if I were to mention that there is another obligation, often overlooked, and our beloved Prophet (s.a.w) has told us that it is an obligation for us to perform? What could that be?

That would be seeking knowledge.

This is evident in the hadith of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w), where he mentioned:

طَلَبُ الْعِلْمِ فَرِيضَةٌ عَلَى كُلِّ مُسْلِمٍ "Seeking knowledge is an obligation upon every Muslim." Source: Sunan Ibn Mājah

Alhamdulillah for His guidance as He guided my steps and weaved my path to attend such a class on Tuesday, where we began the journey of learning about Imam Ghazali's Ihya Ulumuddin (The Revival of the Religious Sciences) under Ustad Sameer. May Allah bless and elevate the status of the author Imam Ghazali and our teacher, Ustad Sameer, for teaching us.

(PS: Book Name: Ihya Ulumuddin: Book of Knowledge Volume 1)

About the Ihya Ulumuddin, we are studying one of the classical books that has been studied for decades and is considered one of the most impactful books in the Muslim world.

Ihya Ulumuddin spans 40 volumes, with the Book of Knowledge being the first volume. It begins with knowledge, emphasizing its significance in the revival of the Religious Sciences.

علم فوق العمل ( Ilm fawqa amal) - Knowledge above actions.

As we began with the first page of the introduction to the Ihya, we looked into how Imam Ghazali starts the introduction by seeking Allah's help to grant him resolve in completing the Ihya. From this, Ustad Sameer mentioned how we can learn about the etiquettes of making dua to Allah.

The Way of Making Dua:

1. Praising Allah

2. Sending Selawat upon our Habibullah ﷺ

3. Seeking Allah's help

4. Closing the dua with Selawat upon Prophet Muhammad ﷺ

علم فوق العمل

Next, as we traversed through the lines of the page, Imam Ghazali mentions his intentions in reviving and inculcating how one can purify and reform the heart. Ustad Sameer complemented this briefly by explaining the five stages of purifying the soul to attain the truth:

Tazkiyah al Nafs (discipline & subdue the ego)

2. Tafsiya al Qalb (clean & wash the heart)

3. Tajalli al Ruh (polish & glitter the soul)

4. Tamliyah al Nur (to be filled with divine light)

5. Tahliyah al Sirr (to be beautified by divine secrets)

Regarding Tazkiyah al Nafs, he emphasized the importance of the seeker of truth embarking on the journey of breaking his ego, shedding whatever truly does not reside in the heart.

As we strive to purify our souls, it is important to remember that, while we must exert effort in disciplining our souls, ultimate purification comes from Allah alone. The Prophet ﷺ has taught us a powerful dua to seek Allah’s help in this process:

اللَّهُمَّ آتِ نَفْسِي تَقْوَاهَا وَزَكِّهَا أَنْتَ خَيْرُ مَنْ زَكَّاهَا أَنْتَ وَلِيُّهَا وَمَوْلَاهَا Allahumma ati nafsi taqwaha, wa zakkiha Anta khairu man zakkaha, Anta waliyyuha wa maulaha. (O Allah! Grant me the sense of piety and purify my soul as You are the Best to purify it. You are its Guardian and its Protecting Friend.) (Source: Sahih Muslim, Book 17, Hadith 15)

Ustad Sameer also mentioned the importance of having a Murshid (spiritual guide) who would be present with the student throughout his life, training him and giving him tarbiyah as he journeys to break his ego.

As the seeker traverses this path to attain the truth, Ustad Sameer mentioned that it is important that he does not lose ʿadhima (عَظِيمَة) and Jazba (جَذْبَة). ʿAdhima represents the aspirations to achieve greatness in one’s relationship with Allah, and as for Jazba (جَذْبَة), it refers to one's Divine Attraction or Divine Love which overwhelms the nature of the self and effaces it. It is this Love that brings fana (فَنَاء), the annihilation of illusory selfhood.

However, these qualities must be complemented with himma (هِمَّة) (spiritual resolve), enabling the seeker to overcome worldly distractions and remain steadfast in striving for closeness to Allah.

As the seeker takes steps on the journey, it is important to also keep in mind that guidance is with Allah, so one’s supplication to keep him steadfast in the journey is essential. May Allah allow us to practice what we have learned and keep us steadfast in seeking Ilm.

علم فوق العمل

May Allah bless us with himma, jazba, and ʿadhima, and grant us the strength to overcome our lower selves.

We invite you to join us on this journey of exploring the Book of Knowledge every Tuesday at Masjid Abdul Gafoor, from 7:30 PM to 10:00 PM.

اللَّهُمَّ صَلِّ عَلَى مُحَمَّدٍ وَعَلَى آلِ مُحَمَّدٍ

[tabutesakina]

When the Majority Rules, But Truth Remains Silent: Unveiling the Deception of Consensus

In the journey of faith, reminders serve as both guidance and a safeguard. They keep us grounded, reminding us of the fundamental truths that govern our beliefs, not only in the seen world but in the unseen as well. For the followers of Ahlul Bayt, among the most significant of these truths is the Wilayat of Imam Ali (عليه السلام). It is a principle so integral to our faith that its acceptance is non-negotiable. Yet, despite its monumental importance, many stray from the path, either unknowingly or willfully.

The Foundation of Faith: The Wilayat of Imam Ali (عليه السلام)

Imam Ja'far al-Sadiq (عليه السلام) said:

"إِنَّ إِكْمَالَ الدِّينِ فِي وِلَايَتِنَا وَالتَّبَرُّؤُ مِنْ أَعْدَائِنَا"

"The completion of faith lies in accepting our Wilayat and disassociating from our enemies."

(Source: Al-Kafi, Vol. 2, Hadith 23)

This hadith is not just a passing statement—it is the foundation of every believer’s relationship with Allah. Wilayat isn’t just a doctrine; it is the very essence that completes one’s faith. Without it, the foundation of one’s submission to Allah remains fractured, unable to bear the weight of true piety.

The Wilayat of Imam Ali (عليه السلام) is not merely a title or a symbolic gesture; it is a divine command, and to reject it is to reject the very fabric of Islam itself.

The Spiritual Peril of Rejecting Wilayat

Imam Ali (عليه السلام) himself warned:

"مَن جَحَدَ وِلَايَتِي بَعْدَ أَنْ يَعْرِفَهَا فَكَأَنَّهُ عَابَدٌ لِلْأَصْنَامِ وَمُشْرِكٌ بِاللَّهِ"

"He who rejects my Wilayat after recognizing it is like the one who has worshipped idols and associated partners with Allah."

(Source: Nahjul Balagha, Saying 108)

The weight of these words cannot be overstated. Rejecting the Wilayat of Imam Ali (عليه السلام) is not a mere intellectual disagreement; it is akin to the gravest form of spiritual rebellion. To deny him is to step outside the circle of those who truly adhere to Allah's will. This rejection is not just an act of ignorance but one of willful ignorance—an act that Allah does not take lightly.

Accountability on the Day of Judgment

The consequences of this rejection are not only felt in this world but also in the Hereafter. Imam Ja'far al-Sadiq (عليه السلام) said:

"يُسْأَلُ النَّاسُ فِي يَوْمِ الْقِيَامَةِ عَنْ ثَلاثَةٍ: عَنْ الصَّلاةِ وَالزَّكَاةِ وَالْوِلَايَةِ، فَمَنْ قَبِلَ الْوِلَايَةَ وَفَاتَتْهُ الْأُخْرَيَيْنِ غُفِرَ لَهُ، وَمَنْ جَحَدَ الْوِلَايَةَ فَإِنَّ شَيْئًا لَا يَنْفَعُهُ"

"On the Day of Judgment, people will be asked about three things: prayer, zakat, and Wilayat. If they accept Wilayat but fall short in the other two, their shortcomings will be forgiven. But if they reject Wilayat, nothing else will benefit them."

(Source: Bihar al-Anwar, Vol. 27, Hadith 65)

This narration poignantly underscores the irreplaceable value of Wilayat. The Day of Judgment will be a moment where all deeds will be scrutinized, and it is the acceptance of Wilayat that will determine whether other deeds can bear fruit. To reject the guardianship of Imam Ali (عليه السلام) is to negate the very foundation of one’s faith, rendering all other acts of worship meaningless.

Wilayat: The Pillar of Islam

As Imam Muhammad al-Baqir (عليه السلام) emphasized,

"الإِسْلَامُ بُنِيَ عَلَى خَمْسَةٍ: عَلَى الصَّلَاةِ وَالزَّكَاةِ وَالصَّوْمِ وَالْحَجِّ وَالْوِلَايَةِ، وَلَمْ يُؤَكَّدْ شَيْءٌ مِّثْلَ الَّذِي فِي الْوِلَايَةِ"

"Islam is built on five pillars: prayer, fasting, zakat, Hajj, and Wilayat. None were emphasized as much as Wilayat."

(Source: Al-Kafi, Vol. 2, Hadith 18)

While prayer and fasting are undoubtedly essential, it is Wilayat that holds the foundation together. Without it, the pillars of Islam are like a structure built on shifting sands. Wilayat gives meaning to every act of worship, for it is only through the love and allegiance to the rightful successors of the Prophet (صلى الله عليه وآله) that our deeds can be validated in the eyes of Allah.

The Ark of Salvation: A Call to Hold Firm to the Right Path

The Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وآله) famously stated:

"مَثَلُ أَهْلِ بَيْتِي فِيكُمْ كَمَثَلِ فُؤَادِ نُوحٍ، مَن رَكِبَهَا نَجَا وَمَن تَخَلَّفَ عَنْهَا هَلَكَ"

"The example of my Ahlul Bayt among you is like the Ark of Noah: whoever embarks upon it is saved, and whoever turns away from it is drowned."

(Source: Bihar al-Anwar, Vol. 2, Page 275)

This profound analogy likens the Wilayat of Ahlul Bayt to the Ark of Noah—a vessel of salvation. Rejecting the guidance of the Ahlul Bayt, and specifically the Wilayat of Imam Ali (عليه السلام), is akin to abandoning the Ark, exposing oneself to spiritual peril and eternal loss.

The Harsh Reality of Denying Wilayat: A Sin Equivalent to Zina

Finally, the words of Imam Ali (عليه السلام) himself strike a chilling reminder of the importance of Wilayat in our prayers.

"مَن جَحَدَ وِلَايَتِي حَتَّى إِنْ صَلَّى صَلَاةَ الْأَنْبِيَاءِ وَصَامَ صِيَامَ الْمَلَائِكَةِ لَمْ يَتَقَبَّلْ اللَّهُ صَلَاتَهُ وَصِيَامَهُ، فَإِنَّهُ كَالَّذِي أَتَى الْكَعْبَةَ فَزَنَى فِي حَجَرِهَا"

"Whoever denies the Wilayat of Ali (عليه السلام), even if they perform prayers like the Prophets and fast like the angels, their prayers and fasting will not be accepted by Allah. Such a person is like the one who has committed zina (adultery) in the presence of the Kaaba."

(Source: Bihar al-Anwar, Vol. 27, Page 65)

This narration holds an undeniable gravity. The act of rejecting Imam Ali's (عليه السلام) Wilayat, even while performing the most essential acts of worship, is equated with one of the gravest sins: zina. In the context of the Kaaba—the most sacred site in Islam—this equivalence serves as a wake-up call. How can we stand before Allah with our hearts divided, denying His chosen leader, Imam Ali (عليه السلام), and still expect our worship to be accepted?

Conclusion: A Reminder to Stay True to the Right Path

This article is not simply a reminder for others but a reminder for myself above all. The Wilayat of Imam Ali (عليه السلام) is not a peripheral belief; it is the essence of our faith. We cannot claim allegiance to Allah while turning away from His chosen representative. As we navigate our lives, let us remain firmly anchored in the guidance of Wilayat. Let these reminders serve as beacons to keep us on the right path, ensuring that our faith is complete and our actions are accepted in the eyes of Allah.

---

Sources and Further Reading:

1. Al-Kafi, Vol. 2 (Hadith 23, 18)

2. Nahjul Balagha (Saying 108)

3. Bihar al-Anwar, Vol. 27 (Hadith 65, Page 275)

For further study, you may explore reliable online sources such as Al-Islam.org or ShiaBooks.org. These platforms provide access to various Shia texts and scholarly resources on the teachings of Ahlul Bayt.

[semnatv2]

مناسك الحج خطوة بخطوة How to Perform Hajj مزدلفه شرح خطوات أداء مناسك الحج كيف تحج وتعتمر

#مناسك #الحج #خطوة #بخطوة #Perform #Hajj #مزدلفه #شرح #خطوات #أداء #مناسك #الحج #كيف #تحج #وتعتمر #حج, #حج2024, #مكة, #المدينة, #كعبة, #مسلم, #عمرة, #إسلام, #رحلةحج, #مبارك, #غفرانالذنوب, #اركانالحج, #نسكالحج, #طواف, #سعي, #وقوفعرفة, #مزدلفة, #منى, #رميالجمرة, #تحلقالحاج, #تقصير, #تلبية, #لبيكاللهملبيك, #الحجمبشربالجنة, #الحجاركانوواجبات, #الحجمستحبات, #الحجاتباعالهدي, #الحجاروعرحلة, #الحجمناسك,…

[milfstalin]

THREAD: Some preliminary thoughts on this new phase in the war focusing on key developments: 1) Israel’s act of state terrorism which killed Seyyid Hasan Nasrallah and its impact on Hizbullah, 2) The impact of Israel’s elimination of Hizbullah’s military command, 3) The current transition phase and Hizbullah’s strategic recalibration

It’s evident that Israel, with the full backing and partnership of the US, aimed to dismantle Hizbullah in one decisive strike. This effort began with the assassination of Fuad Shukr in late July, followed by the pager attacks, but it was Nasrallah’s killing that served as the key trigger intended to spark Hizbullah’s expected implosion. While Israel's push for a regional war seems evident, it's still uncertain whether the US is fully prepared to commit to such a course

It is difficult to quantify the magnitude of Nasrallah's loss for Hizbullah and the Axis as a whole. However, this does not mean Hizbullah is anywhere near the verge of collapse. Israel and the US misunderstand the nature of his leadership—people didn’t support the cause because of him; they supported him because he personified their cause of justice and liberation, and while he was a revered figure, the cause he embodied will outlive him. Nasrallah will live on not just as a model of resistance or political consciousness, but as a rationality—a kind of 'Nasrallah raison'

To think the group would crumble without Nasrallah is a fundamental misreading, and a racist assumption that reduces Hizbullah—a complex and deeply-rooted movement—to a single individual, reinforcing a stereotype that such groups in the Middle East rely on charismatic "strongmen" rather than institutional strength, resilience, or popular grass-roots support. It reflects a broader Orientalist view that discounts the ability of non-Western organizations to function as sophisticated political or military entities, capable of enduring beyond the loss of one leader.

Similarly, while Israel’s elimination of Hizbullah’s entire military command was a devastating blow that would have crippled most states, Hizbullah's ability to continue launching sustained strikes against Israel highlights its operational continuity and the resilience of its command-and-control structure. The reason Hizbullah has been able to withstand such significant losses is its exceptionally robust continuity of command, enabling a seamless transition of leadership even in times of severe crisis

It's important to recall that Hizbullah was born out of war and invasion, shaping it into an organization with built-in resilience. It’s designed to continually regenerate its leadership, producing new generations of military commanders. This resilience was most evident in 2008 when Hizbullah lost its senior military commander, Hajj Imad Mughnieh, who was not just a foundational figure but the pioneer of the Resistance’s “New School of [hybrid] Warfare”. Far from being weakened by his assassination, and the killing of his successor, Mustafa Badereddine in 2013, Hizbullah’s military capabilities have since grown exponentially, with its tactics being adopted by allies across the Resistance Axis.

Since Mughnieh’s assassination, Hizbullah has implemented a sophisticated system of knowledge distribution at the operational level. This distributed expertise ensures that the loss of any single leader, even one in a high-ranking position, does not create a critical gap in the group’s operational capabilities, allowing for rapid reorganization and continuity of operations. Hizbullah has made contingencies for multiple lines of commanders, so if the first is killed and replaced, the second can immediately step in, and if he too is killed, a third will take over, and so on. Several men are delegated with overlapping roles and tasks, ensuring that any void left by a fallen leader is quickly filled, allowing for rapid reorganization and seamless continuity of operations.

None of this suggests that Hizbullah hasn't been severely bruised and momentarily weakened—more so than at any point in its history. This is undeniably a turning point. The organization is navigating a critical transition phase, absorbing consecutive shocks while attempting to recuperate, reconfigure, and reorganize. It is likely revising both its grand strategy and military approach, shifting from its previous support front with Gaza to developing a new defense strategy that will likely focus on repelling Israel’s seemingly imminent ground invasion and forcing it to end its aerial aggression. At the same time, Hizbullah is likely drawing up contingency plans for a broader "Great War" strategy—one that would be offensively driven, should Israel and the U.S. seek to engulf the entire region in war.

30 Sept 2024

[islamkazikr]

How to Be a Good Muslim

Being a good Muslim involves embodying the principles and teachings of Islam in every aspect of life. Islam emphasizes submission to the will of Allah, kindness to others, and adherence to ethical and moral values. Here are some essential steps to becoming a better Muslim and leading a fulfilling life aligned with Islamic principles.

1. Strengthen Your Faith (Iman)

Faith in Allah (Tawhid) is the foundation of Islam. A good Muslim firmly believes in the Oneness of Allah, His divine attributes, and the message delivered by His Prophets, particularly Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

2. Perform the Five Daily Prayers (Salah)

Salah is a pillar of Islam and a direct means of communication with Allah. Performing prayers regularly and with sincerity reinforces discipline and mindfulness.

3. Fulfill Your Obligations

Islam places great emphasis on fulfilling both religious and social obligations. As a good Muslim, strive to:

Pay Zakat: The annual charity purifies your wealth and helps the less fortunate.

Observe Ramadan: Fasting teaches self-discipline and compassion for others.

Perform Hajj: If financially and physically able, make the pilgrimage to Makkah, fulfilling this important pillar of Islam.

4. Seek Knowledge

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “Seeking knowledge is an obligation upon every Muslim.” Learning about Islam enables you to practice it correctly.

5. Exhibit Good Character (Akhlaq)

A good Muslim embodies virtues like honesty, humility, and patience. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is a perfect example of excellent character.

6. Engage in Community Service

Islam encourages helping others and being an active member of your community. Serving others is considered a form of worship.

7. Adhere to Halal Practices

Living a halal lifestyle means abiding by Islamic guidelines in all aspects of life.

[prophetic-pearls]

Islam brings people together. He teaches to worship one God instead of thousands of Gods. Islam tells people how to live. Guides you step by step to live life to the fullest.

What is the basic concept of Islam?

The basic concept of Islam is that the country of the whole world is Allah. That is, the kingdom belongs only to Allah. Islam tells people who is their role model.

Shahadat (testifying that there is none worthy of worship except Allah or that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah)

Salat (prayer which Allah has commanded to be performed 5 times a day)

Zakat (charity or charity)

Fasting (to endure hunger or thirst for Allah) Hajj (Circumambulating the House of Allah)

[ahlulbaytnetworks]

*Lessons Learned from the Tragedy of Karbala*

As I listened to the majlis reciter recount the tragic events of Karbala, a thought flashed in my mind that I couldn't ignore. Why did Karbala happen? Weren't the killers of Imam Husain (a.s.) "so-called" Muslims? Didn't they follow the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.)? Didn't they pray, fast, go for Hajj, and give zakat?

Surprisingly, the answer to all these questions is "Yes." Yes, they were Muslims, followers of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.), and they did perform prayers, fast, go for Hajj, and give zakat.

*Then why did they kill Imam Husain (a.s.)???*

To answer this, I want to quote a phrase from the first sermon of Imam Ali (a.s.) in Nahjul Balagha, where he mentions:

> "The beginning of religion is His Recognition."

{Nahjul Balagha; Sermon No. 1}

In another tradition from Imam Raza (a.s.), we find:

> "The beginning of the worship of Allah is His recognition…"

{Uyoon al-Akhbar al-Raza; Vol. 1; Pg. 150}

From these ahadith, it becomes clear that recognizing Allah is the first step to entering His religion and worshiping Him.

Had the killers of Imam Husain (a.s.) recognized Allah (s.w.t.), they would never have committed such a heinous crime against the family of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.s.).

*So, did they not recognize Allah (s.w.t.)?*

Indeed, they did not. Had they recognized Allah (s.w.t.), they would have recognized His Prophet (s.a.w.a.), and consequently, the Imam of their time, Imam Husain (a.s.).

*Why, despite being Muslims, didn't they recognize Allah (s.w.t.)?*

Because they didn't take their religion from the Thaqalayn, *"The Two Precious Things"* – the Holy Quran and the Holy Ahlul Bait (a.s.). Not taking religion from the Thaqalayn can lead a person astray, even to the extent of becoming a killer of the Divine Proof.

*The lesson I learned from this is that we must strive to learn our religion from the right sources.* We should dedicate time to understanding it and passing it on to our children.

May Allah (s.w.t.) grant us the strength to adhere to the Thaqalayn and take our religion from them.

With that in mind, let's pray together: O Lord of Husain (a.s.), for the sake of Husain (a.s.), make Husain (a.s.) happy with the reappearance of Hujjah (a.t.f.s)! Ameen.

[bu1410]

March 3rd 2024 - Good morning TUMBLR.

Here I go again with another chapter of my memoirs of my life in These are memories of travel and work experiences around the world, over a period of approximately 40 years.

The title is':

''Mr. Plant has owed me a shoe since July 5, 1971."

Ch. I - DAHRAN - SAUDI ARABIA - 1980 – FEAL SpA

What kind of Saudi Arabia did I find in May 1980?

A very different country from today. Sitting on the throne is King Kaled, who succeeded his half-brother Faysal on March 25, 1975, following the assassination of the latter by a nephew.

The country is preparing to become a major industrial and oil power, and must guard against internal and external enemies. The Al Saud family is seen by numerous enemies as ''usurper and illegitimate'' in power, and therefore must proceed in forced stages to modernize the country through the construction of oil plants, infrastructures and even new cities. All this reaffirming in the eyes of the global Muslim community, his role as ''Custodian of the Holy Places of Mecca and Medina''. The pact between the Al Saud royal family and the Wahhabi clergy seems to be working, and the country is under the strict control of the National Guard loyal to the King.

This enormous effort is taken care of, with the approval of the Sovereign, by Fahd bin ʿAbd al-ʿAzīz Āl Saʿūd, the King's brother and his designated successor, in his capacity as Minister of Defence.

The projects that FEAL, the company I work for, are implementing are part of the new infrastructures that are emerging in the country: a series of military hospitals and clinics equipped with all the most modern technologies that Italy and the USA can offer.

Saudi Arabia in those years was a very safe country for foreigners, the only social problems were limited to the eternal struggles between Sunnis (who govern the country) and Shiites who are the majority of the population in the so-called Eastern provinces.

This is inevitably reflected in the areas around Mecca and Medina, the two most important holy cities of Islam, where every year millions of pilgrims from all over the world converge to carry out the so-called Hajj (pilgrimage), one of the obligatory pillars of the Muslim religion .

These areas are periodically subject to terrorist attacks, and therefore the Saudi authorities maintain a strong contingent of security forces in the Holy Places, to guarantee order and peace.

A ''different'' country, where I saw a man park his pick up in front of a bank, with plastic bags full of money in the back, and he patiently carried 4 or 5 at a time into the bank, each time leaving an unattended ''treasure'' outside - but where no one remotely dreamed of touching something owned by someone else.

I arrive in Riyadh, where a stop over is scheduled, and going out onto the plane's ladder, I notice that due to inertia the jet engine is still spinning, and I say to myself ''Wow, what heat these engines generate…''

After taking a few steps to reach the terminal, I realize that it wasn't the plane's engine that was producing the heat: the air is literally boiling hot!! And it's only May!!

I left for Daharan, just a 45 minute flight away, overlooking what is internationally called the Persian Gulf, but the Saudis and Arabs call El Kalij el Arabi (The Gulf of the Arabs)

The arrival in Dahran is one of the most promising: no one waiting for me!!! And it's not like I spoke fluent English in 1980!

But we know, sometimes using the old ''Help yourself, heaven helps you'' technique, in the end, by pure chance, I found, among the crowd waiting inside the airport, a Somali boy, one of those who, in addition to speaking fluent English and Arabic, spoke some words in Italian also stand out (colonial reminiscences)

The guy tells me that yes, not far from the airport there is a construction site for a hospital, managed by an Italian company – and that he, with his pick up, will take me to there.

We go out into the infernal heat of the evening - it is now 11.00 PM - and in a few minutes we arrive at the entrance to the construction site.

Awakened by a few honks, the guard comes out of a shack and confirms to us that it is indeed the "Italians'" construction site, "my" construction site.

At this point I heartily thank the Somali boy, and enter the shack, where the guard is busy with the telephone (we are in 1980, cell phones were yet to come). He calls the campound where the Italians live, and assures me that they will send someone to get me there. Which happens after half an hour: another Somali drives the wehicle that came to pick me up (I will learn that this ethnic group has very important functions of service and connection between us ''Western Expats'' and the locals/Asians)

Finally, after a short journey, I ''triumphantly'' enter the Company's compound, a small village made up of prefabricated buildings like those of earthquake victims in Italy, which will be my ''home'' in the coming months.

Thus I began to work on the construction site, with mixed success - in the sense that the project very complex, made up of a thousand difficulties - but with a big difference compared to just a few years later.

There were many Italians who work there and of all categories. There were technicians and supervisors, but also carpenters, bricklayers, electricians, plumbers, floor and carpet installers, installers of plasterboard walls and false ceilings, structures and external coverings in travertine marble. Of course there were a lot of Indian and Pakistani manpower, but the presence of many Italians makes things easier, both in terms of mutual understanding and in carrying out the various phases, all in a workmanlike manner. Only a few years later (to cut costs, said the Top Management…) the Italians will disappear as construction personnel, increasingly replaced by Asians, giving rise to significant problems, both of a technical and economic nature.

In the meantime, the company I worked for decided to participate in tenders for new projects, again in Saudi. For this purpose, I was sent on a mission to various parts of the country, to carry out preliminary surveys on the places and lands where the construction of new hospitals were planned.

One day I left by plane for Riyahd, from where, in a car driven by a local driver, I headed to Buraydah, a town in the An Nafud desert (the desert of Lawrence of Arabia). A very monotonous journey, of about 300 km, surrounded by a desert landscape, ''cheered up'' by the exact same music that flowed from the car's stereo cassette, turned over and over again - traditional Saudi music, which always repeats the same : din of drums and tambourines, interspersed with shouts and vocal modulations. After about 2 hours, I ask the driver if we can hear something different, maybe western music – his answer:

''Western music is a sin, it is also sung by women, and leads to bad thoughts - and then you are here, in Saudi Arabia, our guest, and therefore you must listen to our music.

Buraidah is the capital of the Al-Qassim region in north-central Saudi Arabia, in the heart of the Arabian Peninsula. The city is located equidistant from the Red Sea to the west and the Persian Gulf to the east. It has a population of 619,739 inhabitants (2010 census).

Buraydah is located on the edge of Wadi Al-Rummah, and has a typical desert climate, with hot summers, mild winters and low humidity.

In Buraydah, agriculture is still the cornerstone of the economy. Traditional oasis products such as dates, lemon, orange and other fruits are still important. The modern introduction of grain production has been so successful that Buraydah is one of the Kingdom's largest producers, important in making Saudi Arabia a net exporter of grains. Intensive cultivations are carried out in circular fields, to facilitate irrigation with the ''pivot'' system.

At that time, 1980, the city was underdeveloped – so we visited the local hospital, to get an idea of the current standards of hospital care. What I saw was disconcerting: an old and dilapidated structure, the patients crowded into narrow rooms, sometimes without windows - the beds old and dirty, in many rooms the floor was made up of gravel and sand. The hospital housed around 400 patients, I honestly don't know how many of them, after their stay, walked out of that facility. The new hospital would have to be built next to the existing one, given that there was absolutely nothing around it.

We returned to Riyadh the next day, after sleeping in a local hotel, a building of much pretention but no merit (like so many others in Saudi at the time, it was the product of Egyptian and Syrian architects). The hotel had a swimming pool, which was of course empty.

The next day I had a flight to Abha, from which I would then continue to Khamis Mushayt, where FEAL was building the new local hospital. From there, thanks to the logistical support provided by my colleagues, I would continue to Sharoura, a desert location in southern Saudi Arabia, on the border with Yemen.

Abha is the capital of the Asir region in the east of the country, not far from the Red Sea - It is located 2,270 meters above sea level on the slopes of the fertile mountains that divide the desert area of southwestern Saudi Arabia from the Red Sea . Abha's mild climate makes it a popular tourist destination for Saudis.

The air journey from Riyadh was somewhat troubled, as it approached landing the plane began to vibrate and suddenly lose altitude, in frightening gaps in the air - this caused quite a bit of fear among the local passengers, to the point that some of them they undid their seat belts and began to pray to Allah, prostrating themselves in the aisle of the plane. The on-board staff in vain exhorted the passengers to sit back down and fasten their seat belts, little by little the latter were joined by other Saudis. Until suddenly the turbulence stopped and finally the Commander's voice told everyone to sit down, because in a few minutes we would land!!!

Once I left the airport, I immediately realized that the surrounding landscape was very different from the rest of Saudi Arabia. Abha was sitting on a plateau surrounded by rather bizarrely shaped peaks. After about 40 minutes by car, I arrived at the Company's compound, in Khamis Mushait.

The usual prefabricated buildings, here with a minimum of vegetation and a surprise: a couple of baboons live in the field, free to roam around!

One night in the prefab and then off the next day, very early towards Sharourah.

Sharourah is a city in Najran province, southern Saudi Arabia, about 550 km east of Khamis Mushait. It is located in the Rub Al Khali Desert near the Yemeni border and functions primarily as a border town. Sharourah had a population of 85,000 at the time.

A long and very boring journey, with terrifying heat, and with absolutely nothing to see, except an endless expanse of sand and red dunes.

The day after our arrival, we set out to look for the place where the new hospital will one day be built. With the help of a representative of the local municipality, we go out 20 km from the city and then with the GPS we locate the site - meanwhile we ask ourselves why the hospital should be built in the middle of nowhere, but the best was  yet to come: after a few minutes, during which we are proceeding with the instrumental survey of the terrain, a Yemeni Arab approaches on the back of his camel. Once off the animal's back, he speaks animatedly with my driver and the municipality representative – after 10 minutes of discussion the meaning of the dispute is translated to me:

 Yemeni: What are you doing here?

 Us: this is the place chosen for the construction of the new hospital

 Yemeni: And why here?

 We: we didn't choose it, but the local administration

 Yemeni: which local administration?

 Us: Sharoura's

 Yemeni: why has the Sharoura Administration determined that the new hospital must be built in Yemeni territory?

 Us: …….????????

 Us: are you sure of what you say?

 Yemeni: I'm sure

 Us: good, we will do the surveys and then we will go to the municipality of Sharoura to report.

 Yemeni: report that no Saudi hospital will be built in Yemeni territory.

 Us: Okay, Mashallah

Afterwards, having completed the findings, we returned to Sharourah and went straight to the municipality, to report the strange encounter.

The local leaders were not too surprised by our story. They simply told us that ''by the time the hospital is built, the land will certainly be in Saudi territory''.

TRANSFER TO TABUK

I returned to Dahran but didn't stay there long time – Mr. Spazzini, Area Manager for the Middle East for the Feal Group, had arrived to visit the construction site. An ''old-fashioned, self-made'' type of man. Tall, big, his glass eye as a result of a car accident gave him a sinister appearance which ultimately did not reflect his character at all. He was the classic gruff-good guy, Juventus fan. Once on site, the carpentry assembly supervisor, following a complaint from Spazzini regarding the verticality of the structure of the emergency stairs, blurted out ''oh well' Mr. Spazzini…turn off a  blind eye.'' Spazzini  got really angry and condemned him to go for a week in his office to clean a giant Juventus poster.

As soon as Spazzini saw me he said:

Bruuunoooo……pack up  your suitcase…….Where should I go Mr. Spazzini?You'll come with me to Tabouk, we need to give help overthere.

So it was that I left with him for Tabouk (in Arabic = brick) a city in north-western Saudi Arabia. To the east of An Nafud, near the border between Jordan and Saudi Arabia, Tabuk is home to a large Saudi air force base. The hospital that was being built was at the service of the soldiers stationed on the base. In fact the construction site was much less organized than that of Daharan, with an Italian - Mr. Riva - as Site manager, who cared more about his affairs than the works. One day he disappeared without telling anyone, and returned a week later with a brand new Alfa 164: ''I bought it in Jeddah - he said - it costs very little compared to Italy''  We proceeded blindly, with personal initiatives , without following a real work schedule.  Mr. Riva and I went once to visit a Korean construction site, and we had noticed outside the hangar that served as offices that the scooters used by the staff were parked in a ''herringbone'' pattern in an incredibly perfect alignment. Inside, the office was organized like a large classroom in a school: the boss sat on a raised desk. The clerks were spread across 12 rows of desks, and none of them raised their heads when we entered. An absurd silence reigned in the hangar. A few words with the office manager, and we made arrangements for him to come to our camp to inspect our cranes he said he was interested in.  After the inspection, the business was quickly concluded, and payement settled in cash, as it was normal those days in Saudi.                           

CEMENT SHORTAGE

One day we suddenly realized ''that the cement had run out''! The construction accountant called me into the office and gave me 75,000 Saudi Rials ($20,000 in local currency) and sent me to get the cement.  As I saaid, those were the times when almost all trades in Saudi were settled in cash. Accompanied by Hamed, a Jordan's driver, with a trailer in tow, we went to a building materials dealer. After a brief negotiation on the quantity and relative price, the usual Pakistanis immediately began to load the trailer with bags of cement. Meanwhile, the old Saudi was counting the money - and once the counting was finished, he put aside a packet of banknotes and putting them in my hand he said to me:

Barak Allah Feekum!

I didn't understand, or rather: I understood that he hoped Allah would bless me, but I didn't understand the connection with the money. Then Hamed explained to me: ''he thanks you for choosing him to purchase the cement, and the ''bakshish'' he gave to you is with the hope that you will return to him again''.

Ahh…good…understood!!  So I thanked the man and assured him that I would not betray him to any other dealer. Then I shared the bakshish with Hamed, who was surprised that a Westerner was sharing the money with him.

EL HAQL - RED SEA

One Friday - to break the monotony - we decided to go to El Haql, a town on the Gulf of Aqaba, Red Sea, about 270 km from Tabouk. There were three of us: in addition to myself, a young architect from Genoa, and another  guy from Castiglione delle Stiviere, Italy. A decision devoid of any logic, to be honest, given the distance, the state of the roads, and the absolute lack of any assistance in the event of a breakdown of the car - an old Toyota Corolla. In hindsight, it was a stupid risk we took – in these cases, we should travel with at least two cars. Be that as it may, all went almost well. After leaving very early, we arrived in El Haql (in Arabic = the field) a small town with a beautiful uncontaminated sea coral reef populated by incredible flora and fauna. The coasts of the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aqaba in this region are steep and overlooking the sea. At that time, Sinai was occupied by Israeli troops and the warships could be easily seen, as the Gulf of Aqaba here is about as wide as lake. The city presented nothing of interest, and was just a place to get something to eat and drink. Just outside the town, beaches abound, and it was shocking to dive into the Red Sea due to the quantity of fish of every shape and colour. The water was absolutely transparent, and it was a memorable day.

The distance from Tabouk suggested we leave El Haql early. The Genoese architect was driving, a dry and lanky boy, not very inclined to advice (of any kind). This is how we arrived nearby a village and like everywhere in Saudi Arabia, before and after the town there were the usual huge humps, to slow down the speed of the vehicles. The stretch was slightly downhill, I saw them first, painted in reflective yellow, and I said softly to the architect: ''Slow down, there are humps'' - to which he, who was also a bit of a stutterer, said turning his head towards me: Wha...wwhaattt?

By that time we were on top of the humps, and we hit the first one  at full speed, but the architect had his own theory, and that is when you hit one of the humps, to avoid the second and third you have to accelerate… it was like that we ended up on the third with the front axle of the Toyota, a terrible crash!!  I hit my head on the ceiling of the car, and suddenly very hot air hit us full on: the windshield had disappeared!! We heard it two seconds later crashing behind us! The blow had actually detached it entirely from its frame and made it fly backwards!! Finally the guy stopped the Toyota at the side of the road – we retraced our steps only to find that the windshield was useless, smashed into 1000 pieces, and we removed it from the road.Are you happy IDIOT!???!! With your fucking theories!!! - I shouted.But I…I thought…Let's go… the road is still long…                                In fact they were still missing more than 200 km to Tabouk, and we traveled them as if we were on a motorbike, with towels wrapped around our face like Tuareg turbans in a desperate attempt to avoid the boiling air that was entering the car. We arrived at the camp distraught, to endure the teasing of our colleagues when they saw us, with our faces distorted and covered up as if we were veterans of the Paris - Dakar.

TRANSFER TO TAIF

After our arrival in Tabouk - there were 5 of us from Dahran - the construction site had changed a lot, and for the better. But Mr. Spazzini had another surprise in store for me: he came just before Christmas and as soon as he saw me he said:

Brunooooo……pack your suitcase…….we need to go! Where to this time Mr. Spazzini?                                                          Company had taken over from Genghini (the famous Roman building developer, expelled from Saudi Arabia with ignominy after the towers under construction in Jeddah sank into the sand, but this is another story that should be told) and FEAL was called to taken up the work for the expansion of the Taif general hospital.Well -  I said -  when are we leaving?Tomorrow early morning!

This was Spazzini, a man who never stopped working, EVER.

We then left for Taif, the summer capital of Saudi Arabia – located in the mountains of the Asir region, 200 km north-east of Jeddah, about 1,800 meters above sea level. The city enjoys an excellent climate, and is an agricultural center of some importance and for almost centuries the vine and grapes called zibibbo (from the Arabic zabīb, meaning "dried grapes") have been cultivated there as well as roses and flowers in general .

TAIF 

There were a few days left before Christmas, the construction site had not yet started and we were only 5 people - so we temporarily settled in a rented house in Al Hada, the area further upstream from Taif, surrounded by acacia trees and the compounds of the Royal family members. There was the enormous villa entirely covered in white Carrara marble of the then Crown Prince Fahd, Minister of Defense and ultimately ''Head of our Client'', given that we worked for the same Ministry. And then further away the compound of a very influential family, which will be talked about a lot in the years to come: the Bin Laden family.

On the other side of the valley, leaning against the mountain, stood the military hospital, surrounded by the villas of the mostly American healthcare personnel. The hospital was already very large, it could have had around 400 beds, but its expansion envisaged bringing the capacity to 1000 beds, with an entire wing dedicated to the rehabilitation of patients with serious pathologies.

Our Company organized a charter flight for the Christmas return to Italy of the staff from the various construction sites. So we all met in Dahran – about 220 people – and flew first to Rome and then to various destinations in Italy. With us was a strange guy from Viterbo, a certain Piselli, who had grown a Saudi fundamentalist beard, an unkempt beard but no moustache. During the flight I went to the bathroom, and came back dressed in the traditional jallabah, saying that he wanted to prank his wife at the airport. Upon arrival at Rome's Fiumicino we went through passport control with some difficulty - then we left the baggage area and a lady with a little girl of about 3 years old came towards us, trying to identify her husband. She recognized Piselli despite the disguise, and urged the little girl to "go and hug that idiot of your father." But the  little girl, frightened by the appearance of that bearded man dressed in white who was trying to hug her, burst into desperate tears, taking refuge in the arms of her mother.

From the series: ''how to ruin a return to Italy after the family hasn't seen you for 4 months''.

Dahran - Saudi Arabia - June 1980

Taif - Saudi Arabia - Jan 1981