#made by lbn

[najia-cooks]

[ID: Buttermilk being poured from a Moroccan ceramic cup with orange and black geometric designs into a glass. End ID]

لبن نباتي / Lbn nabati (Vegan traditional buttermilk)

Lbn (لْبْنْ or لْبَنْ; also transliterated "lban") is a Moroccan buttermilk drink. It is not to be confused with standard Arabic لَبَن‎ ("laban"), meaning "milk"; with Levantine لَبَن‎ ("laban"), also called لَبَن رَائِب ("laban ra'ib"), which is curdled milk (a.k.a., yoghurt); or with Levantine لَبْنَة‎ ("labna"), which is yoghurt that has been strained and thickened.

Instead, lbn is a traditional buttermilk. It is historically made the same way Western traditional buttermilk is: by leaving raw milk to sit at room temperature while the cream separates and rises to the top, allowing the cream to ferment, and then churning the cream until it separates further into milk solids (cultured butter) and a cultured liquid byproduct (traditional buttermilk). Commercial Western buttermilk, and some Moroccan lbn, is now no longer traditional buttermilk but instead cultured buttermilk, which is produced by fermenting low-fat milk; this produces a thicker, more acidic liquid than traditional buttermilk. Lbn is usually made with goat's milk, though cow's milk is also often used.

Lbn—very sour and tangy, slightly sweet, and about the consistency of milk—is consumed as a refreshing after-dinner drink during the summer. It is also used to soak كُسْكُس ("couscous") (made from durum, barley, or corn flour). Couscous with lbn is called سَيْكُوك ("saykouk") in Darija (Moroccan Arabic), or أزَيْكُوك ("azaykouk") in Tamazight.

Saykouk is a cold dish, commonly eaten in the desert and in rural areas during the summertime; but it is also sold from food carts and by vendors on bicycles year-round in cities. On Fridays, Moroccans often eat couscous dishes with lbn on the side, and may make some on-the-fly saykouk by pouring lbn into their bowls to soak the couscous that remains after the vegetables or meat in the dish have been eaten.

This recipe resembles cultured buttermilk, in that it ferments non-dairy milk with live cultures to achieve a sour taste. However, it more resembles traditional dairy buttermilk in taste and texture. Note that this lbn is intended for drinking and for recipes that call for Moroccan traditional buttermilk, and not for replacing Western cultured buttermilk in pastries or pancakes.

Recipe under the cut!

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Ingredients:

2 cups full-fat oat milk

1-3 vegetarian probiotic capsules (containing at least 10 billion cultures total)

A few pinches salt

A few pinches granulated sugar

Make sure your probiotic capsules contain no prebiotics, as they can interfere with the culture. The probiotic may be multi-strain, but should contain some of: Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Bifidobacterium bifidus, Lactobacillus acidophilus. The number of capsules you need will depend on how many cultures each capsule is guaranteed to contain.

Instead of probiotic capsules, you can use a specialty starter culture pack intended for use in culturing vegan dairy, many of which are available online. Note that starter cultures may be packaged with small amounts of powdered milk for the bacteria to feed on, and may not be truly vegan.

Other types of non-dairy milk may work. My trial with soy milk did not succeed (it never became notably tangy). Soaked and blended cashews will thicken substantially, so be sure to blend cashews with at least twice their volume in (just-boiled, filtered) water if you want to use cashews as your base. I found that oat milk, as well as being more convenient and cheaper than cashews, more closely mimicked the taste of lbn. I have not tested anything else.

Instructions:

1. Boil several cups of water and use the just-boiled water to rinse your measuring cup, the container you will ferment your lbn in, and a wooden spoon or rubber spatula to stir. Your bowl and stirring implement should be in a non-reactive material such as wood, clay, glass, or silicone.

2. Measure oat milk into a container and open probiotic capsules into it. Stir the powder from the capsules in until well combined.

3. Cover the opening of the container with a cheesecloth or tea towel. Ferment for 24 hours: on the countertop in temperate weather, or in an oven with the light on in cold weather.

Taste the lbn with a clean implement (avoid double-dipping!) to see if it is ready. If it still tastes 'oaty,' continue fermenting for another 1-3 days, tasting every 12 hours, until it is notably tangy.

4. Blend lbn with large pinches of salt and sugar; or put lbn, salt, and sugar in a jar with a lid and shake to combine. Taste and adjust salt and sugar.

5. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. This lbn will continue to culture slowly in the fridge and will eventually (like dairy lbn) become too sour to drink.

Serve chilled.

[just--space]

Seven Sisters versus California : On the upper right, dressed in blue, is the Pleiades. Also known as the Seven Sisters and M45, the Pleiades is one of the brightest and most easily visible open clusters on the sky. The Pleiades contains over 3,000 stars, is about 400 light years away, and only 13 light years across. Surrounding the stars is a spectacular blue reflection nebula made of fine dust. A common legend is that one of the brighter stars faded since the cluster was named. On the lower left, shining in red, is the California Nebula. Named for its shape, the California Nebula is much dimmer and hence harder to see than the Pleiades. Also known as NGC 1499, this mass of red glowing hydrogen gas is about 1,500 light years away. Although about 25 full moons could fit between them, the featured wide angle, deep field image composite has captured them both. A careful inspection of the deep image will also reveal the star forming region IC 348 and the molecular cloud LBN 777 (the Baby Eagle Nebula). via NASA

[tame-a-messenger]

I just seen this meme and it instantly made me think of Angela with Damien 😂

https://x.com/chaucenosauce/status/1777732305324318826?s=46&t=LBN-nTL3dHZAbWOFkeCnKg

Lmao

[gwendolynlerman]

Discovering the world

Lebanon 🇱🇧

Basic facts

Official name: الجمهورية اللبنانية (al-Jumhūrīyah al-Lubnānīyah) (Republic of Lebanon)

Capital city: Beirut

Population: 5.3 million (2023)

Demonym: Lebanese

Type of government: unitary parliamentary republic

Head of state: vacant (President)

Head of government: Najib Mikati (Prime Minister)

Gross domestic product (purchasing power parity): $78.23 billion (2022)

Gini coefficient of wealth inequality: 31.8% (medium) (2011)

Human Development Index: 0.723 (high) (2022)

Currency: pound (LBP)

Fun fact: It hosts the highest number of refugees per capita and per square kilometer.

Etymology

The country’s name comes from Mount Lebanon, whose name derives from the Phoenician root lbn, meaning “white”.

Geography

Lebanon is located in West Asia and borders Syria to the north and east, Israel to the south, and the Mediterranean Sea to the west.

There are two main climates: Mediterranean-influenced humid continental in the center and east and hot-summer Mediterranean in the rest. Temperatures range from 11 °C (51.8 °F) in winter to 30 °C (86 °F) in summer. The average annual temperature is 20.9 °C (69.6 °F).

The country is divided into nine governorates (muḥāfaẓāt), which are further divided into twenty-five districts (aqdyah). The largest cities in Lebanon are Beirut, Tripoli, Jounieh, Zahlé, and Sidon.

History

2500-64 BCE: Phoenicia

1650-1180 BCE: Hittite Empire

1550-1069 BCE: New Kingdom of Egypt

550-332 BCE: Achaemenid Empire

332-64 BCE: Seleucid Empire

64 BCE-394 CE: Roman Empire

394-635: Byzantine Empire

619-629 CE: Sasanian Empire

636-661: Rashidun Caliphate

661-750: Umayyad Caliphate

750-1517: Abbasid Caliphate

1099-1291: Kingdom of Jerusalem

1102-1289: County of Tripoli

1250-1516: Mamluk Sultanate

1516-1842: Emirate of Mount Lebanon

1516-1918: Ottoman Empire

1843-1861: Double Qaim-Maqamate of Mount Lebanon

1860: civil conflict in Mount Lebanon and Damascus

1915-1918: Great Famine of Mount Lebanon

1920-1926: State of Greater Lebanon

1923-1946: Mandate for Syria and the Lebanon

1926-1943: Lebanese Republic

1943-present: Republic of Lebanon

1948: Arab-Israeli War

1975-1990: Lebanese Civil War

1976-2005: Syrian occupation

1985-2000: South Lebanon conflict

2005: Cedar Revolution

2006: Lebanon War

2006-2008: protests

2007: Lebanon conflict

2011: Intifada of Dignity

2019: 17 October Revolution

2020: Beirut explosion

2021: Beirut clashes

Economy

Lebanon mainly imports from the European Union, Türkiye, and China and exports to the European Union, the United Arab Emirates, and Switzerland. Its top exports are diamonds, polyacetals, and gold.

It has natural gas, limestone, oil, and salt reserves. Services represent 83% of the GDP, followed by industry (13.1%) and agriculture (3.9%).

Lebanon is a member of the Arab League, la Francophonie, and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation.

Demographics

95% of the population is Arab, while Armenians make up 4%. The main religion is Islam, practiced by 55% of the population, 27.6% of which is Sunni.

It has a negative net migration rate and a fertility rate of 1.7 children per woman. 89% of the population lives in urban areas. Life expectancy is 78.3 years and the median age is 31.3 years. The literacy rate is 96.7%.

Languages

The official language of the country is Arabic. French is spoken by 40% of the population.

Culture

Lebanese culture has Persian, Greek, Roman, Arab, Ottoman, and French influences. Lebanese people are very gregarious.

Men traditionally wear a shirt, a dark vest, baggy pants (sherwal), a belt, and a headdress. Women wear a shiny dress (gambaz), a wide belt, and a conical hat with a long piece of silk (tantur).

Architecture

Traditional houses in Lebanon are made of stone and wood and have flat roofs and terraces.

Cuisine

The Lebanese diet is based on fish, meat, pulses, and vegetables. Typical dishes include bamieh bi-zeit (okra and tomato stew), kibbeh (fried balls made of spiced meat and bulgur), sayadieh (seasoned fish and rice), sfouf (an almond-semolina cake), and tabbouleh (a salad of bulgur, onion, tomatoes, and parsley).

Holidays and festivals

Like other Christian and Muslim countries, Lebanon celebrates Epiphany, Armenian Christmas, St. Maroun Day, Feast of the Annunciation Day, Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Assumption, Christmas Day, Islamic New Year, Ashura, Mawlid, Eid al-Fitr, and Eid al-Adha. It also commemorates New Year’s Day and Labor Day.

Specific Lebanese holidays include Rafic Hariri Memorial Day on February 14, Liberation and Resistance Day on May 25, and Lebanese Independence Day on November 22.

Independence Day

Other celebrations include the Aerial and Circus Arts Festival, the Baalbeck International Festival, which features dance and music performances, and the Beiteddine Art Festival.

Baalbeck International Festival

Landmarks

There are six UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Anjar, Baalbek, Byblos, Ouadi Qadish (the Holy Valley) and the Forest of the Cedars of God (Horsh Arz el-Rab), Rachid Karami International Fair-Tripoli, and Tyre.

Ouadi Qadish and the Forest of the Cedars of God

Other landmarks include Jabal Moussa, the Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque, the Moussa Castle, Our Lady of Lebanon, and the Tripoli Citadel.

Tripoli Citadel

Famous people

Amin Maalouf - writer

Elie Saab - fashion designer

Fares Fares - actor

Jackie Chamoun - skier

Khalil Beschir - racing driver

May Ziade - poet and writer

Nadine Labaki - actress

Najwa Karam - singer

Ragheb Alama - singer

Rima Fakih - model

Rima Fakih

You can find out more about life in Lebanon in this post and this video.

[venkat3681]

Discover the phases involved in web development and the types of web development. From research and planning to testing and maintenance, learn how each stage contributes to creating captivating websites. Explore insights from LBN Tech Solutions, where expert developers turn your vision into reality.

[ynx1]

How this hadith: ❝Convey from me, even if it is one verse❞ should be understood?

Shaykh Muhammad bin Saalih al-`Uthaymeen رحمه الله said:

❝When a person has knowledge and insight into that which he is calling to, then there is no difference between the one who has a great amount of knowledge, or a student of knowledge who has recently started in pursuit of knowledge or a lay person – as long as he has certain knowledge of the issue at hand.

The Prophet ﷺ said: ❝Convey from me, even if it is one verse.❞ [Saheeh al-Bukhaaree]

So it is not a condition upon the daee (the one calling) to attain a great amount of knowledge, but the condition is that one must have knowledge of what one is calling to. If this calling is established upon ignorance and built upon emotion and passion, then it is NOT permissible.

Thus, we see that some of the brothers who call to Allaah, they do not have except a little knowledge. We see them, due to their strong emotions, prohibiting that which Allaah has not prohibited, whilst making obligatory that which Allaah has not made obligatory upon His worshippers. This is a very DANGEROUS matter, since permitting what Allaah has made Haraam (unlawful) is like prohibiting what Allaah has made Halaal (lawful). So when they begin prohibiting people for making a particular matter then others will rebuke them for making it Haraam.

Allaah تعالى says: ❝{And do not say, concerning that which your tongues falsely put forward, ‘This is lawful and this is forbidden,’ so as to invent lies against Allaah. Indeed, those who invent lies against Allaah will never prosper.}❞ [Surah al-Nahl (16):116-117]

As for the lay person, then he must not call to Allaah if he does not have knowledge. Rather, it is essential to have knowledge in accordance with the saying of Allaah تعالى: ❝{Say: This is my path. I call to Allaah upon sure knowledge.}❞ [Surah Yoosuf (12):108]

So it is a must to call to Allaah upon knowledge. However, if a matter is clearly known to be evil or good, then one can command it – if it is good, or forbid it – if it is evil.

So the callers to Allaah must start with knowledge. Whosoever calls to Allaah without knowledge, then such a person will cause greater harm than good – as is evident. So it is obligatory for a person to first acquire knowledge, then to do Da`wah. As for the clear evils and that which is clearly good, then the good is enjoined and the evil prohibited.❞

[As-Sahwatul-Islaamiyyah (pp.59-60) of Shaykh lbn al-`Uthaymeen]

[lbnhotelsandtours]

Things You Need To Consider While Booking A Hotel

Planning a tour is always exciting especially when you are going to your dream place such as Marrakech. It is a city in Morocco that offers one of the best sightings, and luxury life which makes it an ideal choice for travelers. However, it is important to choose the best hotels booking in Marrakech to get a smooth and hassle-free traveling experience. If you are a traveler and keen to know more, about the best hotel in Marrakech and the best places to stay in London, stay around to learn more.

Mistake That You Should Avoid While Booking Hotel

It is important to avoid common mistakes that we make during booking a hotel for our tour. In the below, we have mentioned some of the points that you should avoid. Have a look at it.

Do not Book Hotel Through Third party website  - This is one of the common mistakes that made by most travelers. If you book your hotel by going through the third-party website, this may not guarantee your room availability and provide wrong information about the refunds. To avoid such issues, always book budget hotels in Marrakech through the hotel to make sure accurate bookings and better cancelation policies.

Ignore To Join Loyalty Program - There are several reputed hotels that offer loyalty programs to their customer. Do not ignore the loyalty program and join to get valuable benefits such as discounts, free upgrades, early check/ late checks out, and many more.

Use Correct Arrivals and Departure Date - Check twice your arrivals and departure date to avoid any unnecessary expenses. Check and make sure that your booking aligns with your travel giddy. Also, consider the time zone and potential flight schedule changes to avoid extra expenses.

Do Not Forget To Check Hotel Maximum Occupancy - Always check the maximum occupancy of your room to avoid any kind of issue while check-in. Always go through the hotel guest policy to plan your stay smoothly and avoid any unwanted changes.

Considering Looks over Location - Do not prioritize the looks over the location. If you do this this may lead to inconvenience and extra expenses due to the lack of accessibility to key attractions. It is necessary to balance your comfort and convenience by selecting a hotel that is located centrally and easy to access to your planned activities.

Avoiding this common mistake and researching before booking a hotel can help you to make a wise decision for your tour.

Conclusion

For a hassle-free experience always take your time and research the hotel you are going to book. Check their policies and maximum occupancy to avoid any kind of unwanted changes. For the budget hotels in Marrakech, you can reach out to the LBN Hotels & Tours. Where you will get in-depth information.

[lovesurahs]

Aisha

Aisha bint Abu Bakr (RA), was the wife of Muhammad (PBUH), the founder of Islam. She came to be called, “Mother of the Believers.”

Muhammad built Aisha’s (RA) home so that her door opened directly into the mosque. She was the only woman with whom Muhammad (PBUH) received revelations.

She could easily have lived a life of privileged leisure. Instead, she became a highly respected scholar.

She is credited with producing 2,210 Hadith, widely recognized and accepted by Islam, not just on matters related to Muhammad’s (PBUH) private life, but also on topics such as inheritance, pilgrimage, and eschatology.

25% of all Shariah Law is based on her Hadith.

Her intellect and knowledge in a wide range of subjects, were highly praised by early Muslim scholars.

She was known to possess an eidetic memory and piercing intellect.

Far from illiterate, she herself transcribed “The Love Surahs.”

“The Love Surahs” text is the verbatim content of pronouncements made by Muhammad (PBUH) in his last days, as he was confined to his deathbed.

His last breath was taken as he lay in her arms, his most beloved wife.

She lived during the age of Jahiliyya (ignorance) when women were thought less valuable than men.

The traditions regarding Aisha (SA) tell us that she forcefully opposed ideas unfavorable to women in efforts to elicit social change.

There exists substantial evidence that Muhammad (PBUH) did not view himself as superior to Aisha and encouraged her to speak to him candidly, even at the risk of his anger.

Furthermore, Muhammad (PBUH) and Aisha (SA) had a strong intellectual relationship. He valued her keen memory and intelligence, instructing his companions to draw much of their religious practices from her.

Aisha (SA) contributed her scholarly intellect to the fullest development of Islam.

Aisha (SA) was known for her expertise in the Quran, shares of inheritance, matters of law, poetry, Arabic literature, Arab history, genealogy, and medicine.

Her intellectual contributions regarding the verbal texts were transcribed into the official history of Islam.

After the death of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), there were concerns about the accuracy of the Quran’s preservation. Aisha (SA) played a key role in ensuring that knowledge was preserved.

During Aisha’s (SA) entire life she was a strong advocate for the education of Islamic women, especially in law and the wisdom teachings of Islam.

She was known for establishing the first Madrasa (Muslim school) for women in her home. Attending Aisha’s (SA) classes were various family relatives and orphaned children. Men also attended Aisha’s (SA) classes, with a simple curtain separating the male and female students.

Aisha (SA) was also considered to be the embodiment of proper rituals while partaking in the pilgrimage to Mecca, a journey she made with several groups of women. For her last two years of life, Aisha spent much time telling the stories of Muhammad (PBUH), hoping to correct false passages that had influenced formulation of Islamic law.

Aisha (SA) died at her home in Medina on 17 Ramadan 58 AH (16 July 678). She was 67 years old.

The name Aisha (SA) is Arabic in origin and means “she lives.”

“Aisha was the bridge between the time of the prophet and the future of Islam.” —- Resit Haylamaz

“I have never seen anyone who could have knowledge of an ayah, an obligatory act, a Sunnah act, poetry, history, lineage, judgement, or medicine better than Aisha.” –Hisham lbn Urwa

[owl-elementary]

Babysitting

Ship: Trimberly

Prompt by @purrpickle: Kim meeting Trini’s brothers for the first time.

***

Kim concentrated. The Ranger Link was useful, but you still couldn’t mind-read. She could tell that Trini was stressed. Like, hella, about-to-punch-a-wall stressed. But it wasn’t mixed with any sort of fear, like when they were out fighting Big Bads. And it wasn’t mixed with sadness, like when Trini fought with her mom. But still...Kim made a decision.

Fifteen minutes later, she was ringing Trini’s doorbell.

Trini answered, looking haggard. “Oh thank god,” she said, pulling Kim into the house. “I got roped into babysitting today.”

“What’s wrong with - Arggh!” Kim yelped, as a NERF ball struck her.

“They’re usually angels, really,” Trini swore. “I think they’re acting out because Mom has been turning her controlling claws on them more.”

“Rambunctious boys? Piece of cake,” Kim said.

“Who’s this?” Twin One asked.

“Is this your giiiiiiirlfriennnnd?” Twin Two added.

“Yes,” Trini said. “This is Kim. Kim, my brothers Roddy and Mikey.”

“Howdy, boys!” Kim chirped. She knelt down to their level. “I hear the two of you are super smart, and really good at building stuff. Is that right?”

“Yeah!” both twins said.

“Well...if that’s the case...maybe you could help me with something? Ever heard of a Rube Goldberg machine?”

The boys shook their heads.

*

Matteo and Ana Gomez got home later that day to find an interesting structure in their living room. Black Panther was going off on the TV, their boys were asleep on the floor, and Trini and the girl from all of Trini’s pictures were asleep on the couch.

Ana’s eye popped, spotting the girls, but Matteo put a hand on her shoulder and nodded toward the kitchen.

“Relax,” he said. “They’re just taking a nap.”

“They’re sleeping together!” Ana snapped.

“Literally. Love, be reasonable, there’s clearly nothing sexual going on. The boys are in the room, and they were watching a superhero movie. They probably all just fell asleep.”

“It’s inappropriate!”

“How?” Matteo challenged, trying not to smile.

Ana fumed for a second, but calmed. “I just...she never tells me anything. And now she has a girlfriend who’s helping her babysit?”

“And apparently making some fun videos with the boys,” Matteo said. He had picked up the spare video camera that was out on the table, and was running back the tape. “Come on, let’s get dinner started. We’re already in the house, so we can officially meet Trini’s girl before she sneaks her out this time.”

“THIS TIME?” Ana shrieked, waking the four in the living room.

“Oh damn,” Trini muttered. “Well, you’ve met my brothers. Time to meet my parents.”

[thewickling]

“let me be the one”

[apod]

2022 April 5

Seven Sisters versus California Image Credit & Copyright: Neven Krcmarek

Explanation: On the upper right, dressed in blue, is the Pleiades. Also known as the Seven Sisters and M45, the Pleiades is one of the brightest and most easily visible open clusters on the sky. The Pleiades contains over 3,000 stars, is about 400 light years away, and only 13 light years across. Surrounding the stars is a spectacular blue reflection nebula made of fine dust. A common legend is that one of the brighter stars faded since the cluster was named. On the lower left, shining in red, is the California Nebula. Named for its shape, the California Nebula is much dimmer and hence harder to see than the Pleiades. Also known as NGC 1499, this mass of red glowing hydrogen gas is about 1,500 light years away. Although about 25 full moons could fit between them, the featured wide angle, deep field image composite has captured them both. A careful inspection of the deep image will also reveal the star forming region IC 348 and the molecular cloud LBN 777 (the Baby Eagle Nebula).

∞ Source: apod.nasa.gov/apod/ap220405.html

[captainpotassium]

Seven Sisters versus California via NASA https://ift.tt/SrBnDG3

On the upper right, dressed in blue, is the Pleiades. Also known as the Seven Sisters and M45, the Pleiades is one of the brightest and most easily visible open clusters on the sky. The Pleiades contains over 3,000 stars, is about 400 light years away, and only 13 light years across. Surrounding the stars is a spectacular blue reflection nebula made of fine dust. A common legend is that one of the brighter stars faded since the cluster was named. On the lower left, shining in red, is the California Nebula. Named for its shape, the California Nebula is much dimmer and hence harder to see than the Pleiades. Also known as NGC 1499, this mass of red glowing hydrogen gas is about 1,500 light years away. Although about 25 full moons could fit between them, the featured wide angle, deep field image composite has captured them both. A careful inspection of the deep image will also reveal the star forming region IC 348 and the molecular cloud LBN 777 (the Baby Eagle Nebula).

(Published April 05, 2022)

[i-asifeq]

How this hadith: ❝Convey from me, even if it is one verse❞ should be understood?

Shaykh Muhammad bin Saalih al-`Uthaymeen رحمه الله said:

❝When a person has knowledge and insight into that which he is calling to, then there is no difference between the one who has a great amount of knowledge, or a student of knowledge who has recently started in pursuit of knowledge or a lay person – as long as he has certain knowledge of the issue at hand.

The Prophet ﷺ said: ❝Convey from me, even if it is one verse.❞ [Saheeh al-Bukhaaree]

So it is not a condition upon the daee (the one calling) to attain a great amount of knowledge, but the condition is that one must have knowledge of what one is calling to. If this calling is established upon ignorance and built upon emotion and passion, then it is NOT permissible.

Thus, we see that some of the brothers who call to Allaah, they do not have except a little knowledge. We see them, due to their strong emotions, prohibiting that which Allaah has not prohibited, whilst making obligatory that which Allaah has not made obligatory upon His worshippers. This is a very DANGEROUS matter, since permitting what Allaah has made Haraam (unlawful) is like prohibiting what Allaah has made Halaal (lawful). So when they begin prohibiting people for making a particular matter then others will rebuke them for making it Haraam.

Allaah تعالى says: ❝{And do not say, concerning that which your tongues falsely put forward, ‘This is lawful and this is forbidden,’ so as to invent lies against Allaah. Indeed, those who invent lies against Allaah will never prosper.}❞ [Surah al-Nahl (16):116-117]

As for the lay person, then he must not call to Allaah if he does not have knowledge. Rather, it is essential to have knowledge in accordance with the saying of Allaah تعالى: ❝{Say: This is my path. I call to Allaah upon sure knowledge.}❞ [Surah Yoosuf (12):108]

So it is a must to call to Allaah upon knowledge. However, if a matter is clearly known to be evil or good, then one can command it – if it is good, or forbid it – if it is evil.

So the callers to Allaah must start with knowledge. Whosoever calls to Allaah without knowledge, then such a person will cause greater harm than good – as is evident. So it is obligatory for a person to first acquire knowledge, then to do Da`wah. As for the clear evils and that which is clearly good, then the good is enjoined and the evil prohibited.❞

[As-Sahwatul-Islaamiyyah (pp.59-60) of Shaykh lbn al-`Uthaymeen]

[wisdomrays]

TAFAKKUR: Part 433

THE MAIN FACTORS IN THE SPREAD OF ISLAM: Part 2

A. J. Arberry has also pointed out that the reason for the spread of Islam is Islam itself and its religious values. (Aspects of Islamic Civilization, p.12)

He writes:

‘The rapidity of the spread of Islam, noticeably through extensive provinces which had long been Christian, is a crucial fact of history. The sublime rhetoric of the Qur’an, that inimitable symphony, the very sounds of which move men to tears and ecstasy…and the urgency of the simple message carried, holds the key to the mystery of one of the greatest catalysms in the history of religion. When all military, political and economic factors have been exhausted, the religious impulse must still be recognized as the most vital and enduring.’

Brockelman, who is usually very unsympathetic and partial, also recognizes the religious values of Islam as the main factor for the spread of Islam (History of the Islamic Peoples, p.37). Rosenthal makes his point as follows: ‘The more important factor for the spread of Islam is the religious Law of Islam (Shari‘a, which is an inclusive, all-embracing, all-comprehensive way of thinking and living) which was designed to cover all manifestations of life.’ (Political Thought in Medieval Islam, p.21).

Besides many other reasons which are responsible for the spread of Islam, it is the exemplary life-style and unceasing efforts of individual Muslims to transmit the message of Islam throughout the world which lie at the root of the conquest of hearts by Islam. Islamic universalism is closely associated with the principle of ‘amr bi’l-ma’ruf (enjoining the good) for Islam is to be spread by Muslims by means of ‘amr bi’l-ma’ruf. This principle seeks to convey the message of Islam to all human beings in the world and to establish a model Islamic community on a worldwide basis. The Islamic community is introduced by the Qur’an as a model community: We have made of you an Ummah justly balanced, that you might be witnesses (models) for the peoples, and the Messenger has been a witness for you (2.143). A Muslim or the Muslim community as a whole thus has a goal to achieve. This is the spread of Islam, conveying the truth to the remotest corner of the world, the eradication of oppression and tyranny and the establishment of justice all over the world. This requires the Muslim to live an exemplary life, and thus the moral and the ethical values of Islam have usually played an important part in the spread of Islam. Here follow the impressions of the influence of Islamic ethics on black Africans of a Western writer of the nineteenth century:

‘As to the effects of Islam when first embraced by a Negro tribe, can there, when viewed as a whole, be any reasonable doubt? Polytheism disappears almost instantaneously; sorcery, with its attendant evils, gradually dies away; human sacrifice becomes a thing of the past. The general moral elevation is most marked; the natives begin for the first time in their history to dress, and that neatly. Squalid filth is replaced by some approach to personal cleanliness; hospitality becomes a religious duty; drunkenness, instead of the rule becomes a comparatively rare exception chastity is looked upon as one of the highest, and becomes, in fact, one of the commoner virtues. It is idleness that henceforward degrades, and industry that elevates, instead of the reverse. Offences are henceforward measured by a written code instead of the arbitrary caprice of a chieftain–a step, as everyone will admit, of vast importance in the progress of a tribe. The Mosque gives an idea of architecture at all events higher than any the Negro has yet had. A thirst for literature is created and that for works of science and philosophy as well as for the commentaries on the Qur’an.’ (Quoted from Waitz by B. Smith, Muhammad and Muhammadanism, pp.42-43)

The tolerance of Islam is another factor in the spread of Islam. Toynbee praises this tolerance towards the People of the Book after comparing it with the attitude of the Christians towards Muslims and Jews in their lands. (A Historian’s Approach to Religion, p.246). T. Link attributes the spread of Islam to the credibility of its principles together with its tolerance, persuasion and other kinds of attractions (A History of Religion). Makarios, Orthodox Patriarch of Antioch in the seventeenth century, compared the harsh treatment received by the Russians of the Orthodox Church at the hands of the Roman Catholic Poles with the tolerant attitude towards Orthodox Christians shown by the Ottoman Government and prayed for the Sultans (T. Link, A History of Religion).

This is not the only example of preference by the followers of the religions for Muslim rule over that of their own co-religionist. The Orthodox Christians of Byzantium openly expressed their preference for the Ottoman turban in Istanbul to the hats of the Catholic cardinals. Elisee Reclus, the French traveller of the nineteenth century, wrote that the Muslim Turk allowed all the followers of different religions to perform their religious duties and rituals, and that the Christian subjects of the Ottoman Sultan were more free to live their own lives than the Christians who lived in the lands under the rule of any rival Christian sect (Nouvelle Geographie Universelle, vol. 9). Popescu Ciocanel pays tribute to the Muslim Turks by stating that it was luck for the Romanian people that they lived under the government of the Turks rather than the domination of the Russians and Austrians. Otherwise, he points out, ‘no trace of the Romanian nation would have remained,’ (La Crise de l’Orient).

The Muslims’ attitude towards the people they conquered is quite clear in the instructions given by the rightly-guided Caliphs: ‘Always keep fear of God in your mind; remember that you cannot afford to do anything without His grace. Do not forget that Islam is a mission of peace and love. Keep the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him) before you as a model of bravery and piety. Do not destroy fruit-trees nor fertile fields in your paths. Be just, and spare the feelings of the vanquished. Respect all religious persons who live in hermitages or convents and spare their edifices. Do not kill civilians. Do not outrage the chastity of women and the honour of the conquered. Do not harm old people and children. Do not accept any gifts from the civil population of any place. Do not billet your soldiers or officers in the houses of civilians. Do not forget to perform your daily prayers. Fear God. Remember that death will inevitably come to every one of you some time or other, even if you are thousands of miles away from a battlefield; therefore be always ready to face death.’ (Andrew Miller, Church History; Ali lbn Abi Talib, Nahj al-Balagha)

A historical episode which Balazouri, a famous Muslim historian, relates, tells about how pleased the native peoples were with their Muslim conquerors is of great significance

When Heraclius massed his troops against the Muslims, and the Muslims heard that they were coming to meet them, they refunded the inhabitants of Hims the tribute they had taken from them, saying: ‘We are too busy to support and protect you. Take care of yourselves.’ But the people of Hims replied: ‘We like your rule and justice far better than the state of oppression and tyranny in which we were. The army of Heraclius we shall indeed, with your help, repulse from the city.’ The Jews rose and said: ‘We swear by the Torah, no governor of Heraclius shall enter the city of Hims unless we are first vanquished and exhausted.’ Saying this, they closed the gates of the city and guarded them. The inhabitants of other cities–Christians and Jews–that had capitulated did the same. When by God’s help the unbelievers were defeated and Muslims won, they opened the gates of their cities, went out with singers and players of music, and paid the tribute (Futuh al-Buldan).

To sum up, although most Western writers, under the instigation of biased Orientalists of the Church, have alleged that Islam spread by the force of the sword, the spread of Islam was because of its religious content and values, and ‘its power of appeal and ability to meet the spiritual and material needs of people adhering to cultures totally alien to their Muslim conquerors’, together with some other factors. Some of these factors are the tolerance which Islam showed to people of other religions, the absence of ecclesiastic orders and hierarchy in Islam, mental freedom and absolute justice which Islam envisages and has exercised throughout the centuries, the ethical values it propagates, and Islamic humanitarianism, universalism and brotherhood, and its inclusiveness. Sufi activities, the moral superiority of Muslim tradesmen, the principle of ‘enjoining the good’, and Islamic dynamism and the magnificence of the Islamic civilization contributed of their own to the spread of Islam.

The main religious qualities which attracted people to Islam were:

(i) the simplicity of the theological doctrines of Islam based on the Divine Unity;

(ii) rationalism of the Islamic teachings;

(iii) the complete harmony of the Islamic ideals and values with human conscience;

(iv) the inclusiveness and comprehensives of Islam, covering all aspects of physical, mental, and spiritual life of individuals and societies, hence the harmony of religion and life which it established;

(v) the lack of formalism and mediation;

(vi) the vividness, dynamism and resilience of the Islamic theology, and its creativity and universalism, and its compatibility with established scientific facts;

(vii) the cohesion and harmony of the Islamic principles, and

(viii) the shortcomings of other theological systems.

[foggynightdonut]

A STORY OF TRUST OF KEY OF KAABA vs QURAN verses

A STORY OF TRUST - THE KEY OF KAABA

Sahih Muslim (The Book of Pilgrimage - 436)

Do you know which is the only Ayah in the Quran that was revealed inside the Kaaba in Masjid al-Haraam, the Sacred Mosque or Baitullah, the House of Allah? MUST READ!!

On the day of victory of Islam over Makkah, the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) entered Makkah on the 8th year of Hijra, and when they were about to enter the Kaaba they found it locked. They asked who was keeping the key and they found out it was with Uthman Ibn Talha.He was non-believer so upon knowing that Prophet Muhammad (SalAllahu Alayhi WaSalam) will arrive he locked the door. As the Prophet Muhammad (SalAllahu Alayhi WaSalam) enters, the people of Makkah were accepting Islam, but Uthman was hiding. The Prophet Muhammad (SalAllahu Alayhi WaSalam) then ordered Ali Ibn Abi talib to take the key from Uthman. So Ali went to find Uthman, and asked for the key but Uthman did not give it to him. Ali then snatched the key from him so the Prophet can enter the Kaaba. They opened the door and the Prophet entered the Kaaba and prayed 2 rakah salaah.At that time, Abbas Ibn ‘Abd Al-muttalib (May Allah be pleased with him), the uncle of Prophet Muhammad, was there and requested that the key must be kept with the family. And then Jibreel (AlahiSalam) came down with a verse and revealed inside the Kaaba.���Verily! Allah commands that you should render back the trusts to those, to whom they are due; …..” [Holy Quran; Surah Al Nisa 4:58]

Soon as that verse was revealed, Prophet Muhammad (SalAllahu Alayhi WaSalam) ordered Ali to return the key to Uthman Ibn Talha and excuse themselves. Ali then went to Uthman and gave back the key and excused themselves for the wrong he has done to him (for snatching it). That shocked Uthman and could not believe Ali was giving back the key to him as instructed by Prophet Muhammad (SalAllahu Alayhi WaSalam), who is the conqueror of Makkah. Ali explained to him that a verse was revealed for him, Allah instructed Prophet to return the trust to whom they belong to.Uthman immediately said:“I bear witness that indeed Allah is one and Muhammad (SalAllahu Alayhi WaSalam) is the Messenger of Allah “Jibreel (AlahiSalam) came down with more revelation but not in a form of Quran, but in a form of instruction to Prophet Muhammad (SalAllahu Alayhi WaSalam) to tell Ali that the key of Kaaba will remain in his progeny until the day of Qiyamah.It was the miracle of Quran, that upon revealing that verse up until now the key of the door of Kaaba is still in the possession of the family of the original Key-Bearer, Uthman bin Talhah (Radhiyallaahu Anhu). Today, the family of this man is protected by police and by the government. Even the king of Saudi Arabia needs permission from this blessed family to have the key to enter Kaaba.Uthman ibn Talha was highly amazed by the character of the Prophet Muhammad (SalAllahu Alayhi WaSalam). He took Shahadah, embraced Islam and a great sahabah.Sahih Muslim (The Book of Pilgrimage - 435)

Narrated Ibn Umar (Allah be pleased with them) reported, Allah's Messenger (SalAllahu Alayhi WaSalam) came on the Day of Victory, and got down in the courtyard of the Ka'ba and he sent (a message) for 'Uthman b. Talha (Allah be pleased with them). He came with the Key and opened the door. Allah's Apostle (SalAllahu Alayhi WaSalam) then entered therein and Bilal, Usama b. Zaid, and 'Uthman b. Talha (along with him), and then commanded the door to be closed. They stayed there for a considerable time, and then the door was opened, and Abdullah said: I was the first to meet Allah's Messenger. (SalAllahu Alayhi WaSalam). outside (the Ka'ba), and Bilal was close behind him. I said to Bilal: Did Allah's Messenger (SalAllahu Alayhi WaSalam) observe prayer therein? He said: Yes. I said: Where? He said: Between the two pillars in front of his face. He said: I forgot to ask him as to the number of rakahs he prayed.Sahih Muslim 

(The Book of Pilgrimage - 436)

Narrated lbn Umar (Allah be pleased with them) reported, Allah's Messenger (SalAllahu Alayhi WaSalam) came daring the year of Victory on the she-camel of Usama b. Zaid until he made her kneel down in the courtyard of the Ka'ba (and got down). He then sent for 'Uthman b. Talha and said: Bring me the Key. He went to his mother and she refused to give that to him. He said: By Allah, give that to him or this sword would be thrust into my side. So she gave that to him, and he came with that to Allah's Apostle (SalAllahu Alayhi WaSalam) and gave that to him, and he opened the door. The rest of the hadith is the same as the above one.Subhana ALLAH.

comment by Mirza Baig:

You says that the key of the kaaba was with a person who was not a muslim that is kafir but Quran says:وَمَا لَهُمْ أَلَّا يُعَذِّبَهُمُ اللَّـهُ وَهُمْ يَصُدُّونَ عَنِ الْمَسْجِدِ الْحَرَامِ وَمَا كَانُوا أَوْلِيَاءَهُ ۚ إِنْ أَوْلِيَاؤُهُ إِلَّا الْمُتَّقُونَ وَلَـٰكِنَّ أَكْثَرَهُمْ لَا يَعْلَمُونَ [8:34] Maududi

But what prevents Allah from chastising them now when they are hindering people from the Holy Mosque, even though they are not even its true guardians. For its true guardians are none but the God-fearing, though most of them do not know that.

Quran says the guardians are God-fearing "Muttaqoon". Now how you justify your stance? And will you please submit the list of 'Mutawalli' of kaaba during that period? What about Abdul Muttalib and Abu Talib were not them the trustees of Kaaba and key keepers?

The history says that Banu Hashim were the trustees and key keepers of Kaaba. Hope you will submit your justification with proper evidences in light of factual history and Quran.

Much fabrications may be there but Quran always speak the truth.

[mrsm-h]

So yesterday was a big day. After 25 years of being a ‘Newham Girl’ I say goodbye to working at LBN. It’s hard to believe that so much time has passed since I walked through the doors of the Youth Information & Advice Service, fresh faced and willing to volunteer my time so I could gain some experience working with young people.

Whilst in the borough I have had many amazing opportunities such as giving the then Home Secretary a tour of the Beckton Globe when I was an area manager, having one of my projects chosen as the pilot for a crime diversion project and secondment to the London East Connexions Partnership. I've also had the chance to work in interesting and exciting areas such as Practice Improvement, Youth & Community Education, Youth Engagement, working with hard to reach young people & SEN.

I won’t lie and say that my time at LBN had been plain sailing as there had been dark times too. Where bullying, discrimination and sly moves went unchecked and unmanaged. As well as refusals to support personal and professional development.

Following the death of George Floyd, as a black woman and mother of two daughters I have had to take a long hard look at my working life. I found that I was unhappy with what I saw: the opportunities that were withheld, promises which were not fulfilled and the backup that never came. The ‘unconscious bias’ labels such as being called angry rather than passionate and difficult for standing my ground. Having managers who were happy to utilise my skills and experience but not recognising them officially or willing to reward them appropriately.

It is a proven fact that black people have been disproportionately held back in the work place and denied professional development opportunities. So what was I going to do? Bitch and moan from the side-lines? Allow other people to block me from studying in order to improve my career chances? Or show my daughters that we do not have to remain in an unhappy work environment and utilise everything I have learnt with my life coach Marilyn Fontaine and step up. By putting on my Big Girls Drawers and doing something about it?

So after some thought I did something about it. Next week I start my new role as a Senior Curriculum Manager leaving Newham behind me.

As I leave the borough I will leave behind the frustration and sad memories and take with me the happy memories of my colleagues, the excellent work we did through the years with and for the young people of Newham. The colleagues who became family and those who all made it out years ago and showed me there is life outside of Newham. My wonderful mentors Verena Thompson, Nic Hinrichsen Richard Larkins, and Zeporah Francis who each took me under their wing, imparting their knowledge and skills. Not forgetting my secondment to London East Connexions which netted me my husband and my sister from another mother.

I could not leave Newham without my special thanks to my Co D Carl aka Soldier who kept me sane over the last few years with jokes and food. My Lil Bro Marcus Morgan-Valentine, Big Bro Mark Townsend, the lovely Ms Jacquie Burke who kept on telling me to believe in myself and my Big Sis Angelique Grygorcewicz-Townsend who mentored me up and out of Newham with love, understanding and no nonsense.

I think the most important lesson I have learned over the last few years, is how important it is to know your own worth; and, if you feel that your work is not being valued, taken for granted or overlooked, then sometimes it is best to simply walk away with your head held high and find an organisation that values you and your talent. After all, if you do not value yourself, no-one else will.

So why am I writing this post? Well if you find yourself in a job you are not happy with, that is sapping your brain with little or no reward, please know you can do something about it. It might not be easy and it may take some time but it is possible to take control and get out. Don’t suffer in silence. See if you can find a mentor or life coach and don't forget to ask for help from those around you.

Now it’s time for me to start a new chapter 💜