 RESTORING BALANCE: FAITH, LAW AND THE COURAGE TO LOVE
In the Chapter of the Qur'an titled “The Most Merciful” (Al-Rahman) God Almighty informs mankind that "He raised the sky and established The Balance [Al-Mizan]". Then Allah warns us not to breach ‘The Balance’ but rather we should be alert to the scales of justice and not become absentminded when it comes to ‘The Balance.’ (55:7-9)
The fact that Allah informs us that His creation is in harmony and then warns us not to be heedless of this fact is a clear indication that Al-Mizan can be corrupted by human behavior.
Today’s environmentalist tells us that the culprit behind global warming is senseless human behavior. The social critic tells us that the underlying theme of the current global recession is human banditry, greed and wantonness. In every dimension of our lives -- the spiritual and the mundane -- the balance that once characterized traditional societies is rapidly melting away with dire consequences.
Religion used to be the abode of reason and spiritual refinement but even this realm has not been safe from gross distortions. One group among us insists that faith is all that matters and law is for the extremists. Another group defines itself by trumping Shariah as if it is divested from Divine love, mercy and compassion.
This one-day program is designed to be a frank discussion aimed at bringing much needed clarity amidst a great deal of confusion. If you feel deep down in your soul that something is not right with our world, lives and society, this program is for you.
We believe young Muslims born and raised in the West are poised to play a vital role in restoring the traditional balance that Islam envisages. We have the greatest model that God Almighty sent as a ‘Shining lamp’ and ‘A Mercy’ for all of mankind. The Noble Messenger [peace and blessings of God be upon him] is the embodiment of Love (Mahabbah) and his message is as relevant today as it was in the Arabian desert 1400 years ago.
Join us on May 2, 2010. There will be no regrets.
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Innovation and Creativity in Islam |
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This article examines two fundamental concepts essential to the dynamic application of Islam: bid‘a (innovation) and ijtihad (critical thinking for solutions to new problems). Both concepts are meant to preserve continuity with Islam’s original sources while renewing the religion’s vitality as a dynamic faith. Correct understanding of bid‘a and ijtihad is an essential element of Islamic literacy, the basic understanding of Islam that all members of the Muslim community must have. Bid‘a serves as a regulatory mechanism for the elaboration of the religious law but is not meant to be an obstructive force, impeding new ideas and silencing open discourse. Bid‘a has different shades of meaning and is not always negative; it applies equally to innovations that are obligatory, recommended, or merely neutral. Ijtihad, on the other hand, is the creative dimension of Islamic law. The obligation to perform it falls on each Muslim community in the context of its particular time and place. Ijtihad is not solely an obligation of scholars; it also is incumbent on the Muslim rank and file, who are required to think critically about which scholars to follow.
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