Hudaybiyyah which, although apparently over-conciliatory towards the opponent, ultimately permitted the Islamic mission to go forward unhindered. We must concede that ours is a highly competitive world, one in

individual, community or nation from working towards regaining, or even bettering, its lost position. What must be avoided at all costs is

whether it be a lump sum in cash or some article of value. The jurists have different views to offer on what the minimum amount should be, but all are agreed that it should be substantial enough for something

whereas there are many traditions which enjoin the fixing of smaller dowries. In all such cases, Islam lays down guidelines rather

and Ibn Kathir who construe this verse as meaning that imitation of nonbelievers is not allowed in Islam. Then he quotes the tradition in which the Prophet forbade adopting the ways of non-believers in’

The wording of the verse, “except such as are normally displayed,” gives rise to the question of what it is that has been exempted here from being covered. The theologians and the commentators have two

establishing it all the more soundly. That is why monotheistic religion gives it every encouragement. ISLAM: THE LIBERATOR OF THE MIND In ancient times, an intellectual climate dominated by polytheism tended

was no country during that period where learning and science could progress. It was only when the Islamic revolution ended this age-old harnessing of the intellect to polytheism that attitudes began, effectively

punishment or the desire for Paradise. What a pity that this world boasts of offering everything except what is most desirable. What a pity that man knows everything except what he should know best. Undoubtedly

come when man will realize his mistake. This realization will not, however, serve to compensate for what has been lost. On the Day of Judgement, God will address those who forgot the only thing that they

the fact that no matter how huge, or wonderful in configuration, what we see of them amounts to only one-tenth of their enormous bulk. What lies below the surface of the ocean, spreading far and beyond the

walls, furniture, a few material objects and some human occupants. To all outward appearances, that is what the room adds up to. But the moment we switch on the TV set, we are introduced to a hitherto unsuspected

switch can be turned on to make us understand what it is really like. Only death can do this for us. And when we reopen our eyes after death we find that what had formerly been impalpable, and quite beyond

or another, the madu will certainly welcome his words of wisdom. The dawah life of the Prophet of Islam is replete with examples of such conviction and confidence. In spite of apparent antagonism, his conviction

he always prayed for them. For instance, when Tufayl Ibn Amr Ad Dausi came to Makkah and accepted Islam, he was sent by the Prophet to his tribe to give them the call of Tawhid. Far from listening to him

will be understandable to them. No one followed this pattern more completely than the Prophet of Islam. Night and day, he was busy preaching the word of God. But his preaching was far from a bland repetition

congregation in formulating his message. On one occasion, in the early days in Makkah, the Prophet preached Islam to Abu Sufyan and his wife Hind. This is how he framed his address: Abu Sufyan ibn Barb, Hind bint

Islam believes in a personal God. God is an alive being, fully aware of His servants. He hears and sees. That being so, man must call God in all personal matters. Whenever he calls God with a sincere heart

heart, he will find Him close by. Meditation in Islam aims at bringing man closer to God. When man worships God, when he remembers Him, when his heart is turned towards Him in full concentration, when