In March 3rd 1924 brotherhood has ended and was divided. Unless is rectified and revived, it will remain as a theory for Muslims who utter the words and do injustice to its meaning. You will encounter many Muslims who are in love with the concept of brotherhood and when the time to put it in practice or the opportunity presents it self they fail to entertain it. One would ask him/her self why is brotherhood romanticized by many who claim to follow the religion of Islam? "Brotherhood", the term upon which much of the first Muslim state was built on, no longer has the same meaning and strength. Now it relates to your friend, your mate, the people in your group or gang. It has become a very narrow definition that needs to be revived and placed in its proper context by the scholars and teachers of Islam. Brotherhood in the west is seen as ‘chilling’ long hours in trivial matters and traveling far places together that you do not have a clear objective of why you have to be there. If questioned, one would argue for brotherhood and use the hadith (…..you get to know someone by traveling with him) out of context and with no proper intention. When asked for help, the notions of what have you done for me lately or what’s in it for me appears. Sharing your plate of food or drink is seen as peculiar thing to do. Doing favors or giving money is done with the intention of receiving them back without delay. One who talks about Allah and his messenger is seen as boring and not a ‘fun’ person to hang with. ‘Fun’ has been the basis of brotherhood. As a result, No fun, no brotherhood attitude has become the common theme amongst Muslims in the west, specially the youth. On the other hand, you have the educated Muslims who in their pursuit of modernization have led them to think that this could be achieved only by westernization. For that reason, older educated Muslims have adopted the impression of ‘when in Rome, do as Romans do’ and the younger generation simply have entertained the saying ‘Monkey see, Monkey do’. This is not to undermine those few Muslims who created a healthy atmosphere of true brotherhood and the others whom their efforts have failed them due to the type of brothers/sisters they have to deal with. Brotherhood is impaired because of two unfortunate developments in this century. The First was the abolishment of the Khilafah and the emergence of independent nation-states in the Muslim world. "National interests" became the idea of each Muslim country that is at cross-purposes to the interests of the Brotherhood. . The second development was the emergence of the United Nations Organization and the participation of individual Muslim nation-states in it, solely at its terms. The U.N. was and remains an organization of unequal powers, designed to maintain that inequality. Its purpose was to establish dominance of the Western alliance over the rest of the world--- not for any higher moral purpose but solely for economic exploitation. Its very structure (with real decision making in the hands of a few in the Security Council) guaranteed the disenfranchisement of the weak, and the entire Muslim world found itself in that category at the end of official colonialism. Does brotherhood exist anymore* If Somalilanders see the other Somalies as enemies and ally themselves with the non-Muslims...than you wonder is there Brotherhood in Somalia....could there be one and how* P.S:Brotherhood is a concept refering to both gender.

Salafi, Do you know that Islam does not have a system of governance? There are guidelines, rules, regulations and laws that need to be implemented in an Islamic government. However, leaving things with Allah does not make sense and is not the advice of his messenger (s.a.w). Relying on him (Tawakul) is the proper thing to do but we must tie our camels and look for our provisions. Fore example, when the messenger (s.a.w) died he did not appoint someone to succeed him, however, Abu Bakr when faced with same situation decided to choose and he selected Omar Bin Al-Khatab. For Omar he did not choose nor select anyone after him. He had a committee made up of six of the best Sahab's choose among themselves. As you can see there are different approaches in choosing and selecting one that should be head of state.

My dear sister I commend you on your pursuit to find a solution to the Somali problem. However, I must say that I disagree with your U.N type of system. Somalia is like any other country and for it to be recognized must have a president. The international community will not support this idea because is unorthodox. A country with a flag must have a president. We can discuss what type of system that we can undertake. For example I live in Canada and what you’re trying to say is more compatible to their system. Instead of each region in Somalia having a president, it can have representatives in the parliament. Each region will utilize its resources and have deferent ways of doing things, although, we are in one country and under one presidency. Somalis have more unifying factors than divisive elements. They share one religion, one Madhab (school of thought), one language, one culture…etc. We should use this to our advantage and bring back the legacy of Somalia. How can we do this? Well…we can start from Grass root education, so that the average Somali person understands the importance of a country and not fall into tribal bigotry.

An Islamic approach to Social change is very unique and a comprehensive procedure. However, one must not only study history for the sake of amusement but must understand the lessons from it. Revolution in essence meaning a sudden or drastic change in a situation or matter. Although, Humans are generally inpatient, to bring about Islamic state will require a steady and grass root change. Let me give you an example from history, since you all seem to be students of history. Islam was declared by Prophet Mohammed (s.a.w) and his few followers at the time of Mekkah. This period marked the start of human salvation. For 13 years in Mekkah majority of the revelation was about ‘TAWHIID’ the Oneness of God. It was imperative for one who has become Muslim that he understood that concept. Therefore, for 13 years in Mekkah that concept was the centre stage of things and not a single law –relating to state building- was revealed. Even salah, fasting Zakah and Hajj were the not the focus points than. Salah was made once during the morning and once during the nigh and it was only two rak’as each time. Also, Alcohol, backbiting, slander, envy, unity, stealing, brotherhood, Hijab…etc, etc, were not even a priority in the Mekkan period. The reason is because peoples HEARTS needed to be convinced first, an everlasting change was been nurtured in to the breasts of the new believers. To give an example, Alcohol was part of the daily lives of the Mekkan people. Consequently, for its prohibition needed a wise and careful approach. Reason being that alcohol is an addiction and to make it haram suddenly would have been hard for many of the new Muslims. Therefore, who is wiser than Allah? Three psychological steps were taken in order to make sure the consumption of alcohol stopped among Muslims. Wine is declared as bad [2-219] and the first step says that one should not go for prayers in a state of drunkenness in (Surah Nisaa, 4:43,). Then the last step it was banned in Sura (Almaida, 5: 90-91). Step by step were the choice of the Al-Wise and the Creator of the Worlds. Is it not ironic, we all want Islamic Khilafah but don’t want to go through the process of change that will enable us to reach there? To go back to my point, than only in Madina came all of the laws. In the second year of Hijrah, Fasting became incumbent on us and Jihad was made permissible. It was only until the 4th year of Hijrah that the order of Women to cover themselves was revealed. What is my point? My point is that Islam is not a revolutionary religion. Revolution requires sudden change, change that is more cosmetic in its appearance and the interior of it is weak and susceptible to hypocrisy. For example you must have experienced individuals who were once extreme in their approach of Islam and than after a while went back to their unislamic ways. Why? It is simple. They have not changed with in, but rather the Niqab and the big beard and Jalabiyah was worn out of drastic change and after a while the sister took off the Niqab completely and the brother went back to his Haram activities. You know why these things happen? Because they have made sudden change, without not realizing that change requires a step by step procedure and starts with the inside (the heart) first. True change is the transformation of that which is in one self. Islam advocates and proved step by step change not a revolutionary type of change. Besides revolution has the connotation of doing things extreme, deliberate change and that is not what our Messenger (s.a.w) has taught us to approach things. We are advised by him (s.a.w) to take the middle approach of things, meaning not to go extreme left nor extreme right and this goes against the principal of revolution. Any change will need to occur on an individual level, than the family, than the community, than the state and eventually Islamic states will make up the Khilafah. This is the matter of the process of change according to the Islamic thinkers. This format, however, has not come from the air but has been driven from the Qur’an and Sunnah and will need steadiness and time to mature. Many examples can be provided about how change is steady, step by step approach and more lasting than a sudden change. I hope the examples that I gave was sufficient enough to make my point. Only Allah knows best.

Good points guys. May God save our country

God willing I will answer most of your questions if not all. That is because I have gone back to Somalia in 1995 to summer 1999. I went to Mogadishu and the neighboring cities and visited the countryside. I’m also one who is interested in the affairs of Somalia and have followed it to an extent. However, I will need time and will answer each segment of questions separately. I hope that is fine with you.

"The strong one is not really the Good Wrestler but the one who controls himself when he is angry" (Agreed Upon) Witness the wisdom of the Messenger (S.A.W)

Qac Qac.... how can we bring about sincere leaders when we are living in an environment that knows no such thing? From its 'Fake'leaders to its Civilians are all in a competition of Stealing and Deceiving, and majority of the Somali youth are influenced and follow the hip hop culture. Are the Somali youth Leaders or Followers? Or to put it better, do they have the potential to become leaders?

Somalia has been without a proper government for about 14 years now. Somalis have been scattered around the world in pursuit of stability and peace. The only priority for Somali parents has been survival and steadiness. Therefore, being able to produce Somali leaders has become scarce due to the fact of constant relocation and lack of proper training and education. Somalis have been under the myth that Math and Science are the only education that should be learned and other branches of knowledge are not essential. This thinking is still entrenched in the psyche of Somalis today. The liberal Arts (Sociology, Anthropology, Psychology, International relations, Law...etc) are not emphasized or encouraged by the Somali Parents due to the lack of understanding of its significants. Although, those who specialize in the liberal Arts will definitely play a major role in the establishment of the Somali state and reconciling its civic institutions. Not to undermine Science and Math, they are also important, but we should not be focused on them only. I feel that it is incumbent on this generation to implant the proper tools necessary to produce leaders of tomorrow through training oneself, educating and taking part in Social organizations. It is also important to first realize that the Somali youth are in a predicament. Negative peer pressures, harmful influences and the power of the electronic media, the scourge of drugs, liberal values and powerful anti-Islamic forces combine to produce a Somali youth who are less confident about their Islam and heritage despite the influence of the Dugsi system, madrassah, and other institutions in the community. Somali Youth, both boys and girls, are frequenting shopping malls, imitating and looking up to hip hop stars and idling their time in trivial pursuits rather than being involved in lofty and worthwhile activities. This is not to ignore those few Somali youth who are engaged in healthy pursuits. With no doubt, Somalia is in desperate need of sincere leaders who are not under the influence of tribal bigotry and are morally intact. We are a society in love with leadership and uncomfortable with followership, though the two are inseparable. There will be those who lead because of their qualification and those who follow. choose between becoming an example and leading with goodness or a follower of righteousness. Obviously, as you can see the Somali individual requires dramatic change, an inner change that is. However, where should we start? Please answer me this. Are you willing to transform and modify yourself as an asset rather than a burden? And if you are, how about are you going to do that or what do you suggest that we do in recovering the Somali State? Remember the people of Somalia depend on us and if we fail them, than that is another decade of suffering and uneasiness, not to mention the failure of our children. Let the discussion on ‘Recovering the Somali State’ begin. It is a mission not only possible but a matter of when and how (Insh’Allah) and also, it is the responsibility of the Somali youth to assume a role and take part in the restoration of his/her home. We must talk about it now, so that when the time comes we can act appropriately and effectively. With the Help of Allah and good people, Somalia will once be what it should have been. It starts as a dream and translates into to actions. What is your Dream? What do you want to see happen in Somalia? Feel free to post and say what you think. This is a short study that requires all of you to participate. May Allah help us all.

Somalia has been without a proper government for about 14 years now. Somalis have been scattered around the world in pursuit of stability and peace. The only priority for Somali parents has been survival and steadiness. Therefore, being able to produce Somali leaders has become scarce due to the fact of constant relocation and lack of proper training and education. Somalis have been under the myth that Math and Science are the only education that should be learned and other branches of knowledge are not essential. This thinking is still entrenched in the psyche of Somalis today. The liberal Arts (Sociology, Anthropology, Psychology, International relations, Law...etc) are not emphasized or encouraged by the Somali Parents due to the lack of understanding of its significants. Although, those who specialize in the liberal Arts will definitely play a major role in the establishment of the Somali state and reconciling its civic institutions. Not to undermine Science and Math, they are also important, but we should not be focused on them only. I feel that it is incumbent on this generation to implant the proper tools necessary to produce leaders of tomorrow through training oneself, educating and taking part in Social organizations. It is also important to first realize that the Somali youth are in a predicament. Negative peer pressures, harmful influences and the power of the electronic media, the scourge of drugs, liberal values and powerful anti-Islamic forces combine to produce a Somali youth who are less confident about their Islam and heritage despite the influence of the Dugsi system, madrassah, and other institutions in the community. Somali Youth, both boys and girls, are frequenting shopping malls, imitating and looking up to hip hop stars and idling their time in trivial pursuits rather than being involved in lofty and worthwhile activities. This is not to ignore those few Somali youth who are engaged in healthy pursuits. With no doubt, Somalia is in desperate need of sincere leaders who are not under the influence of tribal bigotry and are morally intact. We are a society in love with leadership and uncomfortable with followership, though the two are inseparable. There will be those who lead because of their qualification and those who follow. choose between becoming an example and leading with goodness or a follower of righteousness. Obviously, as you can see the Somali individual requires dramatic change, an inner change that is. However, where should we start? Please answer me this. Are you willing to transform and modify yourself as an asset rather than a burden? And if you are, how about are you going to do that or what do you suggest that we do in recovering the Somali State? Remember the people of Somalia depend on us and if we fail them, than that is another decade of suffering and uneasiness, not to mention the failure of our children. Let the discussion on ‘Recovering the Somali State’ begin. It is a mission not only possible but a matter of when and how (Insh’Allah) and also, it is the responsibility of the Somali youth to assume a role and take part in the restoration of his/her home. We must talk about it now, so that when the time comes we can act appropriately and effectively. With the Help of Allah and good people, Somalia will once be what it should have been. It starts as a dream and translates into to actions. What is your Dream? What do you want to see happen in Somalia? Feel free to post and say what you think. This is a short study that requires all of you to participate. May Allah help us All.

Dear sayfullaah Al-Masluul I think I have grasped what you are trying to say. I apologize for mis-judging you. It was not you who I judged directly it is your words that i've analyzed and got the wrong understanding. Our brother Rainbow made good points and as well as Cash_Flow. Thank you both. As Malcolm X says, lets not mix up the 'objectives' with the 'methods'. Our objective is to bring about a country that its laws and rules are derived from the Qur'an and Sunnah, NOT by any means necessary, but by the correct means of Rasullullah (SAW), his Khulafa's-predecessors and those who adopted a way similar (Umar Bin Abdula-Aziz and Saluhu-Diin Ayubi) and a manner the pleases Allah (SW). That is the OBJECTIVE. Allah Knows best. The Method, route, and the plan of action on how to execute that Objective could be disagreed upon. Also, lets us all agree on the fact that if a Leader is brought about in Somalia that truly believes in the same Objective as stated but has formatted and showed a different plan or method, we still must follow him and obey him, even if you disagree with his ways or methods. I hope this is agreed upon and understood. keep in mind, Omar (2nd Khalif) disagreed with Ubu Bakr (1st Khalif) on many things. For example: (1) to change Khalid Bin Walid as the head General in the Muslim army, (2) To also change Usama bin Zayd (being 18 yrs of age) from the General position and put a veteran in charge of the army in Syria, (3) and finally to fight the Murtads (apostates-those who left Islam) and many others important issues. However, the objective was clear for Omar and Abu Bakr (RA) and they did not get into silly fights or arguaments, although, their methods were different on most cases. Truly, Allah knows Best.

sayfulaah-Almasluul I think your confused or trying to confuse others. Is Islam the solution or not? Don’t say it is and than say but in bold. I will ask once more is ISLAM the solution to the crisis of Somalia? Answer yes or no…and state why. If you don’t know than you don’t know. Secondly, Islam is the perfect religion, which has no flaws or can’t be wrong…. that is a fact. But Muslims can make a mistake or even deviate from the principles of Islam. For anyone to judge Islam through the action of one Muslim or few is merely ignorant and lacks proper education of the social sciences. For example for me to say that Christianity breeds or promotes terrorism, when Timothy McVeigh exploded that bomb in Oklahoma, would show my state of ignorance. Islam has to be properly applied, in accordance to the teachings and the way of Rasullulaah (s.a.w) and is Khulafa (Abu Bakr, Omar, Uthman, Ali and Omar bin Abdul-Aziz). Anyone can claim something and not do it in its correct manner. Therefore, claiming to have an Islamic government and the action or the principles of Islamic governance is not applied, would not be an Islamic government…correct? You seem to attack Islam indirectly. We all know Islam does not support dictatorship or anything, which leads to being bad. It seems as well that you speak in the Third party as if you don’t belong in this religion. We’ll give you the better of the doubt and say you grew up in America or the west and followed CNN all your life and other anti Islamic media. Islam is Islam…not democracy. Islam is made to dominate all other ‘isms’, systems and religions, if we like it or not, if we support it or not. It is the nature of Islam to supersede all and bulldoze that, which is on its way. Truly, Allah knows Best.

Opinionated, be careful of giving too much opinions of things that may be out of your league or require personal experience or Knowledge. Mind you, Islam is not a religion based upon Opinions and personal ideas. I’m sure you have much to say and feel you must put your two scents in, but is better to remain factual and realistic. Consider this an advice because it is a Lesson for all of us to learn. The sad thing is, even those who don’t believe in Islam will tell you that it is not a smart thing to be opinionated. “The more opinions you have, the less you see” Wim Wenders

Alhamdullilah, to see that more and more are returning to the fundamentals and the true nature of Islam. We all have agreed that Islam is the solution. I would like to re-state that we should take lessons from the pages of Islamic history or pre-Islamic history. Look at the time and condition of the Arabs in Mecca and Medina before Islam. They were a tribal society so ignorant that they used to bury their newborn daughters. They also drank alchole excessively, enslaved the week and neglected the poor, dealt with usury (interest) and had tribal ridiculous fights on a regular basis. These are only few of the social problems of the Arabs before Islam, than Islam came and solved all those problems and more within 23 years of prophet hood. The irony is that Somali people are Muslims, which have the same Madhab (school of thought), one culture (not much diversity), majority speak the same language, but yet we have the same problems -or even worse because we’re Muslims- than the people of Mecca and Medina. With no doubt the solution for now is to live Islam with in us, in our homes and communities and prepare for the reconstruction of Somalia. Usually people in general are followers and right now Somalia is in great need of sincere educated leaders that have a firm relationship with Allah. Just like Umar Ibn Al khataab, Umar bin Abdul-Aziiz, Malcolm X, Imam Hassan al Bana and Abu A’la Al Mawduudi…and many other pioneers and thinkers of Islam, may Allah be pleased with them all. Therefore, who will stand for justice even against his people or himself? Who will stand for the truth if it means dying for it? Who will become the one who unites ALL the tribes in Somalia, just like how Rasuulullah (saw) united the whole tribes of Arabia? The answer to these questions shall be seen in the near future -Insh'Allah- as the process of a new Revolution begins. "Our people have made the mistake of confusing the methods with the objectives. As long as we agree on objectives, we should never fall out with each other just because we believe in different methods, or tactics, or strategy. We have to keep in mind at all times that we are not fighting for separation…” Malcolm X

Lucky... you are making more sense than the politician’s sister and through Education and working together as 'ONE' has been your great points. Thank you "Without education, you're not going anywhere in this world." Malcolm X P.S: You don't have to be a politician to contribute to the construction of your society or your country. All you have to be is an intelligent human being.

Dear sister, by you posting this question shows us how much you care and are concerned about the HIJAB/JILBAB case within you family. The basis of Islam is surly Sincerity, as Prophet Mohammed said; 'Religion is sincerity'. However, as you already said this topic is of a great debate among the Islamic thinkers and scholars. The bottom line will be the individual effort in following the guidelines and adhering to the teachings of Islam with sincerity. JILBAB is mentioned in the Qur’an on Surah Al-ahzab verse 59. The main debate is on the word JILBAB and the interpretation of it, is greatly differed by the Islamic Scholars. Nonetheless, my opinion would be, if you feel that you are covering your body fully according to the Islamic teachings and you sincerely believe that your beauty (body curves, shapes…etc) are not been displayed ‘knowingly’ than you are on the right path. Not to display the beauty beyond "what is apparent of it" except to the people listed in (24:31), extending the head covering to cover the bosom (you are already doing that…mash’ Allah) and drawing the outergarment close around. Truly, Allah knows best. The following Qur’an and hadith passages should help you in your relentless pursuit of the truth. Truly, Allah knows best. "And say to the faithful women to lower their gazes, and to guard their private parts, and not to display their beauty except what is apparent of it, and to extend their headcoverings (khimars) to cover their bosoms (jaybs), and not to display their beauty except to their husbands, or their fathers,..." Surah an-Nur ayah 31 says: "O Prophet! Say to your wives and your daughters and the women of the faithful to draw their outergarments (jilbabs) close around themselves; that is better that they will be recognized and not annoyed. And God is ever Forgiving, Gentle." Surah al-Ahzab ayah 59 says: The majority of scholars have agreed that the phrase "what is apparent of it" refers to the face and hands. The Prophet (SAW) explained to Asma bint Abu Bakr (RA) that the phrase "what is apparent of it" refers to the Face and Hands. This is narrated by Aisha Umm al-Muminin (rAa), Qatada (rA), and Asma bint Umais (rAa). This has been confirmed as the explanation of the phrase by the following scholars: Of the Sahaba, those who supported the display of the face and hands are: Aisha Umm al-Muminin , ibn Abbas , Anas ibn Malik , and Miswar ibn Makhrama (RA). Of the Tabi'un, those who supported the display of the face and hands are: Sa'id ibn Jubayr (rAa), Ata, Qatada , al-Dahhak , Mujahid , and al-Hasan. Scholars from the major legal schools (madhahib) Imam Abu Bakr Jassas, Hanafi scholar: "Our scholars say that this [exemption] denotes the woman's face and hands" Imam Abu Abdullah Qurtubi, Maliki scholar: "Since the normal case is that a woman’s face and hands are revealed by the force of habit and for worship, as this is required in salat and hajj, then it is appropriate to say that the exemption [in 24:31] applies to these" Imam Fakhr ad-Din Razi, Shafi'i scholar: "Since the showing of the face and hands is necessary, the jurists had no choice but to agree that they are not awra" Imam Ahmad ibn Qudama, Hanbali scholar: "[i prefer this opinion] because necessity demands that the face should be uncovered for buying and selling, and the hands should be uncovered for giving and taking" Forgive me for the long Information. Hopefully this should help in answering your questions. With no doubt, Allah Knows Best.

My dear brothers and sisters the topic I want to share with you is a topic that has been greatly debated. Having to experience the Somali crises, it brings me great sadness and sorrow. You would ask yourself, what is the solution? What is the problem? It has been about 14 years since there was any proper infrastructure in Somalia. What is wrong? How can we improve the dilemma that has caused us pain and suffering? What does Somalia need to be a peaceful country again? What stigma or element should be left out in the process of reconstruction? Individually, what can you contribute? OR are you thinking about yourself and planning to live in North America, Europe or Australia forever. Additionally, do you really think that you have nothing to do with the issues of Somalia? Maybe you think you are Canadian, American or belong to the nationality of the country you have been living in for the past 10-20 years. With no doubt, Somalia will need Leaders, professionals, innovators, thinkers, scholars, engineer, teachers...etc. It will also need Individuals who are sincere in there field of work and are not affected by the same tribulations that caused the civil war for the past 14 years. Is ISLAM the only solution for the Somali crises? What system do we implement? Is democracy the solution? What do you think? ‘The Future belongs to those who prepare for it today’ Malcolm X 'Waxaad heybad ku leedahay Dhulkaaga Hooyo' 'Your mother country is where your honour lies'

That is Humbling Qac Qac but we have to imitate their Islamic concepts and characteristics at their time and make it conducive to our time. Anyways, Islam and Somalia awaits us...let us make sure we do not fail them both Insh'Allah. 'By Any Means Necessary' As Malik Shabaz AKA Malcolm X would say.......if it means death than so be it. We should be Physically and psychologically ready, for the future hold great responsibilities. For Mizz_Unique you are welcome and hopefully you will take part in the upcoming islamic conferences whether it be ISNA, ICNA or Reviving the Islamic Spirit, which will be held throughout the year in every year. You just have to be thirsty for the revival of Islamic spirit within you.

Hey, my main man Qac Qac....I'm hoping that you become the Just, spiritual Islamic leader as Uthman Dan Fadio and Half Islamic Worrior just like Qac Qac Ibn Amr...We are counting on you Insh'Allah.

The conference was well done Mash'Allah. I'm really happy to say that our Somali sisters A.k.a 'Future Mothers' have represented very well in being part of the organization of the conference and also attending it. For those Somali's whom are close to the Deen and try to practice it, in the essence of pleasing Allah will be the ones who will take an active role in the reconstruction of Somlia. The ONLY sollution to Somalia is ISLAM and Islam only. Somalia is in need of innovative rethinking based on original, authentic Islamic sources. Keep up the good fight.....the time is extremely near. Nonetheless, Abdalla Hakiim Quick was a man among boys because he spoke with a purpose and objective. I thought he gave us a practical solutions to the problems we Muslims face. He said confrontation was legitimate in Palestine, Chichniya...etc 'Allahu Akbar' otherwise no need for desprate confrontation, no isolation and no issimilation. His book 'The forty Ahaadeeth on Islamic Revival' is a book that is truly remarkable and will revive the Islamic spirit within ourselves and our communities. Please read it and see it for yourself. He ended up saying that we MUSLIMS need to make, 1- tawbah (repentence), 2- self analysis and 3- re-construction For those who don't know Shiekh Abdalla Hakiim Quick, this is a brief backround of him: He embraced Islam in 1970 and after a while he went to Madina University, where he completed a BA from the college of Da'wah and Usul al-Din. he later got his masters degree and PhD on the History of Islam in Africa at the University of Toronto. The focus of his thesis was the life of Shiekh Uthman Dan Fodio, the Amir of the Sokoto Caliphate in the 18th century. May Allah be pleased with him and have mercy on us...Aameen.

To focus on Aristotle, many of his works were considered highly controversial; one of those idea is his assertion that the world is internal. This idea is in contrast to the creation of the world by God that is held by Muslims. There could be Greek Philosophers that hold the same view, however, to conclude that they are Muslims is out of proportion. Even if they were Muslims , scholars of Islam and the Muslim thinkers that have studied and translated Greek philosophy would have informed the general public. Although, there could be a link between Aristotle and Alexander the Great. Dhul-Qarnein who in Islamic mysticism is equated with Alexander the Great ("The Two horned One"), Aristotle was in fact for some time the teacher of Alexander the Great. In this case than if Alexander 'The Great' was truly 'Dhul Qarnian' than you can draw the link between Islam and the Greek philosophers at his time. Not to mention that Dhul Qarnian is projected in the Qur'an (Chapter 18) as a true Muslim and one that submitted to the will of Allah. Nonetheless, this issue is of a great debate among Muslims and Dhul Qarnian's identity is not a agreed upon matter among Quranic scholars and the Muslim thinkers.

Is good to see sisters interested in Islam. They always have been. We need educated, religious and self-confident Muslimah's now a days, which are very hard to find. One of the reasons that the Ummah is a backward Ummah is because the women are backward and uneducated. As my main man Malcolm X said 1n the 60's on this subject...."If you are in a country that is progressive, the woman is progressive. If you're in a country that reflects the consciousness toward the importance of education, it's because the woman is aware of the importance of education. But in every backward country you'll find the women are backward, and in every country where education is not stressed its because the women don't have education." Simple as that. if you look at the time when Islam was on top of the world, you would find that the Muslim women were on top of the world and when Islam was defeated the enemy targeted the family unit especially the mother because she is the key to the success of the children and her husband as well.

We must understand that Islam is a perfect religion and Islam has no flaws whatsoever. It is Muslims who misrepresent Islam and the non-muslims look at that and judge ISLAM directly. Therefore, there is no trouble with Islam but in fact there is trouble with some Muslims that follow Islam. It is also fair to mention that the treatment of women in some of the Muslim countries are harsh and damaging. However, these customs must not be taken as something Islam has ordained. In some so-called Muslim countries, put there culture and traditions over Islam and the tradition of our Prophet Mohammed (S.A.W). That is where the confusion lies. It is best to know the background of Irshad Manji for further understanding on where she is coming from. In 1972, Irshad and her family came to Canada as refugees from Idi Amin’s Uganda. Raised in Richmond, just south of Vancouver, she earned scholarships in each of her years at the University of British Columbia and became the first humanities student ever to win the Governor-General’s Medal for top graduate. Irshad Manji is an acclaimed TV personality, author and media entrepreneur based in Toronto. Ms. magazine has named her a “Feminist for the 21st Century” From 1998-2001, she made media history as host and senior producer of Citytv’s QueerTelevision, the first program on commercial airwaves to examine the lives of gay, lesbian and open-minded straight people. That is all I have to say about this Women who claims to be a Qur'an scholar without not kowing Arabic....it just doesn't make any sence. Also, I'm homosexual and my religion is Islam, that is oxymoron. The book will confuse a lot of the young brothers sisters who are very naive and have a shallow understanding about Islam. My advice to them would be, be closed minded about subjects as heavy as this unless you have the proper knowledge to be open minded. The enemy of Islam Love this women and will continue to support her and give her of the chart reviews on anything she writes about Islam. Do not be baffled my brothers and sisters, it comes with the territory of being a Muslim. Nevertheless, it is time that we young Muslims learn about the true nature of Islam and leave the cultural influences aside. In that sence we can get a clear understanding of what Islam is all about and be at peace that this religion is the real and true religion for mankind. with no doubt, the light of Islam will always glow and beam in the faces of the enemy even though they despise it.

Hibo I thought I would never agree with you but you were very insightful in analyzing this century old enmity between the somalis. I guess the only way to attain peace in somalia is the clan division.............Bunch of ******* igrant ppl the somalis are.

democracy and islam are compatible. Where did u hear that the two are not compatible from. Qardaawi once said, "whoever says islam and democracy are not compatible neither understands islam nor islam."