On complaints
Mar 2, 2012
“It is better to walk than curse the road.” African proverb
Ramadan 2012: The Early Bird Challenge
Feb 23, 2012
To fully benefit from a great opportunity, you need to prepare for it – and the more thorough the preparation the better. As Muslims, we have an annual event that serves as a tremendous opportunity to gather rewards and effect permanent, positive changes in our lives that will help us draw closer and closer to … More Ramadan 2012: The Early Bird Challenge
On holding the tongue
Feb 17, 2012
“When you have spoken the word, it reigns over you. When it is unspoken, you reign over it.” Arabian proverb
Hajj Chronicles: Part3: Twelve bags of sabr
Feb 5, 2012
Previous parts: Introduction | Part 1 | Part 2 The Arabic term sabr is often translated as ‘patience’, ‘perseverance’, or ‘steadfastness’, and we all know its tremendous importance in Islam. When it comes to Hajj, many people tell you that you’ll need a lot of it – because you’ll inevitably face difficulties and trials, such … More Hajj Chronicles: Part3: Twelve bags of sabr
Lessons from the Orion-MJC debacle
Jan 20, 2012
I’m sure most South African Muslims are aware of the Orion-MJC saga that started late last year, and has resurfaced this week with a documentary airing on e-tv. I didn’t see the program, so I’m not in a position to comment on it, but from what I have observed, many people are very emotional over … More Lessons from the Orion-MJC debacle
Signs
Jan 8, 2012
A few signs from my recent trip to the Middle East: Top left: A sign warning Hujaaj against begging. The English isn’t too great, but you get the message. Top right: A fast food place near the Haram in Makkah, catering for pilgrims not so well off (of which there were many). To give you … More Signs
The closing of 2011
Dec 23, 2011
And so we come to the end of another calendar year, which will predictably be accompanied by year-end reviews, personal reflections, and ‘best of’ lists. For me, it’s been a momentous year – with Hajj the biggest highlight of course (as you may have noticed from the content of posts for the past few months). … More The closing of 2011
Hajj Chronicles: Part2: Beginnings
Dec 12, 2011
Previous parts: Introduction | Part 1 How it started I’d wanted to go for Hajj for a long time – but had only planned to go two years ago, in 2009. Generally, that’s the wrong approach to take. You’re supposed to go as soon as you’re capable (physically, financially, etc.) – because it’s an obligation, … More Hajj Chronicles: Part2: Beginnings
Rebirth
Dec 6, 2011
First life I was a latecomer to Islam. No – I didn’t convert into the religion. I was born a Muslim, but for most of my life growing up, I wasn’t really one – not the way I should have been, at least. I lacked the proper understanding, knowledge, and, most of all, commitment to … More Rebirth
Hajj Chronicles: Part 1: Why?
Nov 26, 2011
Previous part: Introduction Why? “Why would a person go for Hajj?” It’s a simple question, and if you didn’t know enough about Hajj – or have a deep emotional attachment to it – you may struggle to find the answer. Why would someone leave behind the security of their home, their family, their enjoyment – … More Hajj Chronicles: Part 1: Why?
slip-sliding away..... 