A Tribute to Scotland’s First Minister, Humza Yousaf
It’s been a sombre day for many people in Scotland today. Rumours started circulating about the resignation of the First Minister of Scotland, Humza Yousaf, and the news was confirmed today as he stood in Bute House sharing the news of his resignation. It was emotional listening to him standing and speaking about leaving the top job. The emotions weren’t as high as when Imran Khan was robbed of his premiership in the Pakistani elections, but one questions what exactly happened behind closed doors. Why did the First Minister abruptly tear up the Bute House Agreement, whereas a year ago, he was so fervent in keeping it? At the election debates last year, Kate Forbes had opposed the deal, stating it had a negative impact on communities. Many sources are now stating the First Minister felt he needed to unite the SNP family, and this is why he decided to terminate the agreement.
Continue reading Khabib, UFC, and Islam
Some Muslim personalities have made a positive impact in sports while confidently speaking about their faith. Muhammad Ali was an impressive personality. However, we have many examples in our modern times. Mohamed Salah of Liverpool captured the hearts of football fans, and we have heard the chant “Mo Sa-la-la-la-lah, Mo Sa-la-la-la-lah, if he’s good enough for you, he’s good enough for me, if he scores another few, then I’ll be Muslim too.”
Continue reading“Give Me Permission to Have Sex?”: A Hadith on Temptations
Ever since immersing myself in the world of counselling and therapy, I’ve begun to view the life of the Prophet ﷺ and the hadiths from a unique perspective. I often reflect on the various roles the Holy Prophet ﷺ assumed. He was not only a teacher and legislator but also a friend, confidant, therapist, counsellor, and much more. The Prophet ﷺ was the go-to person for all concerns, anxieties, and questions. The hadith concerning Zina, which I refer to as the “Zina incident,” is especially intriguing because it highlights many key aspects of the Prophet’s ﷺ da’wah. Narrated by Imam Ahmad from Abu Umama al-Bahili1, a young man came to the Prophet ﷺ and said to him,
Continue readingChildren inspire wisdom
Children have often inspired scholars and Sufis with their innocent tongues. At times, Allah allows His wisdom to manifest through the words of the young and innocent, providing scholars with profound reflections. Many scholars have transformed their lives due to such experiences, finding a deeper connection with Allah.
Continue readingProtected: Allamah Ghulam Rasul Sa’idi (1937-2016): A scholar par excellence
The Scottish Wanderer in Cairo
Cairo is one of the greatest cities in the Muslim world. With a population of around 20 million, it is a city that never sleeps. For many students of Islamic Studies, Cairo is an important destination. With its great mosques, scholars, and universities, it gives students an excellent opportunity for learning and personal growth.
Continue readingThomas Keith (Ibrahim Agha) – The Scottish Governor of Medina
Sutcliff’s ‘Blood & Sand’ explores the life of the scotsman Thomas Keith (Ibrahim Agha) who was captured in Egypt. He converts to Islam, taking a lead role in Muhammad Ali Pasha’s army (Ottoman Governor and de facto Ruler of Egypt) and in 1814 is appointed the Governor of Medina. Sutcliff, meticulously writes the story of Thomas. She thanks Michael Stardorth for giving her the story of Thomas and helping her shape this story. I couldn’t find anything about Michael Stardorth or how he came across the life of Ibrahim Agha.
History of the Glorious Quran
History of the Quran is a short article which was initially written by Shaykh Mansoor Mahmood Al-Azhari (Imam, Kirkcaldy Central Mosque). I then edited it to teach a group of students at Zainab Cobbold Institute. The article explores the recording, compilation and vowelisation of the Quran. Diagrams are added for further illustration.
Tafsir Surah Fatiha (5 min Read)
A window to the ‘Opening’ is a short commentary that I compiled on Surah Fatiha from various books of tafsir. I have tried to keep it very simple so that we can connect with this Surah. I pray that this benefits you. Feel free to download the PDF Version.
Ruz-e-Alast 