Binti wa Kiislamu's top 5 events of 2013

5. The passing of Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela.
We all got affected by his passing, because he was a man of principle. He stood by his beliefs and never used politics or sugar coated stuff to try and please people. He once said, "anybody who changes his principles depending on who he is dealing, that is not a man who can lead a nation."

To lighten up the mood watch what the fake interpreter was really saying on this post here...

4. The Syrian Civil War death toll of over 100,000.
The Syrian Civil war started in March of 2011, and is still ongoing. The United Nations have estimated that over 100,000 have been killed, and by mid June 6,561 of those were children. Inna lillahi waina Illahi raj'iun(To Allah we belong and to him is our return). May Allah guide them in resolving their conflicts and grant them peace as well as all countries undergoing war. May he accept the souls of the deceased into his Janna, and may he grant peace to their families.

3. Jengo laporomoka Dar Mjini.
So in March of this year, we lost people, mostly children playing on a construction site that was next to a mosque, where the building collapsed. It was a sad sad day for us. Mistakes were made, blames were passed around, but it brought to light the carelessness of the city building inspectors. We really need to re evaluate our processes and how to be proactive instead of inactive when planning of buildings are being erected. I am not going to even start on the complaints of the Strabarg construction of the BRT lanes and their 7am-3pm work schedule. The accidents and traffic have brought more loss to the residents of Dar then the benefits they are supposed to bring.

My condolences goes to the families of the passed souls.To Allah we belong and to him is our return.

2. Island Emerges in Pakistan.

I am sure the folks of Pakistan feel very fortunate to have witnessed this event. Secrets of creation, Miracles, possibilities, events one wishes to be there to witness. Call it what you may, but this was an amazing event to witness. If you missed this post, read the cause of the island emergence here.

1. Meteor Blast in Russia

Early this year in February, a meteor fell and exploded in Russia and scientists say it was 10 times
greater then earlier thoughts. This is the 21st century and the country is Russia, who also happen to have an eye in space. The fact that even they couldn't foresee this meteor coming and send proper warnings, it shows that Allah only shows us what he wants us to see. May Allah protect us.

Happy new year folks, let's reflect on how we lived our lives in the past year, our interaction with others, and how we want to spend our 2014 God Willing. I pray that conflicts get justly resolved in 2014, may the sick and their families have courage, and may we all be fair in our dealings.

May Allah guide us, protect us from our trials and tribulations and may he shine his light on us and grant us peace.

Verse of the day - The Family of Imran

Those who spend [in the cause of Allah ] during ease and hardship and who restrain anger and who pardon the people - and Allah loves the doers of good.

Wale ambao hutoa wanapo kuwa na wasaa na wanapo kuwa na dhiki, na wanao dhibiti hasira, na wasamehevu kwa watu; na Mwenyezi Mungu huwapenda wafanyao wema

 ( Qur;an 3:134)

Jalal ibn Sa'eed (UK) | Don't Worry Be Happy

Today's Khutba is from  Mufti Jala Ibn Sa'eed. He talks about the Natural Goodness in your heart, and how proud Allah is of you, So don't Worry and Be Happy!

Jumaa Mubarak Everyone.

Reviving the Islamic Spirit (RIS) Convention 2013

Its that time of the year again, the RIS convention 2013 is on this December 27-29. If you are able to go, please, GO!GO!GO! This year they have a group of really great scholars from all over the world and performances from Raihan all the way from Malaysia and other great acts. Check out their promo video below.

They really make it fun for the youth, but its not only for the youth, Adults can go too. So if you are in the Toronto Area or near by, or you can afford to travel from far, get your tickets fast as they tend to sell out.
Go here for more info.

Hadithi ya Leo - Mali(Wealth)

Abu Huraira alihadithia kuwa Mtume wa Allah (S.A.W) alisema:

Utajiri sio kuwa na mali nyingi, bali utajiri ni kuridhika na nafsi yako.

Abu Huraira narrated that the Messenger of Allah (S.AW) said:

"Richness is not having many possessions, but richness is being content with oneself. -Sahih

(Tirmidhi: Book 36:70)

Sign Language Interpreter Translates Mandela Memorial Impostor's Signs

Okay so if you live on earth, then you have heard of the fake interpreter, or the interpreter that was spitting nonsense on Mandela's funeral. How this guy passed background checks is really beyond me, but Jimmy Kimmel brought a real interpreter and here is what the guy was really saying.

Okay, so I know its not meant to be funny, but this was hilarious! Mbavu zangu mie.

Nelson Mandela State Funeral Tribute by President Jakaya Kikwete Tanzania

President Kikwete's Speech on Nelson Mandela's Funeral. I remember watching the First Nelson Mandela movie, not the new one with Idris Elba, but the original one with Danny Glover as Mandela and Alfre Woodard as Winnie. The whole Family was gathered to watch it. The movie came out at a time when Mandela was still in Jail, however, our parents thought that it was important that we knew his story and his struggles. His journey in life was definitely a tough one, but God kept him long enough to see the fruits of his struggle.I am glad at the end, he got to just live his life like the rest of the worry free folks, and just be. In the Quran there is a verse that says, "With every Hardship comes Ease".

Bye Bye Nelson Mandela, May your soul rest in peace.

Understanding Islam - Nouman Ali Khan | HD

World's Most Extreme Airports - History Channel 240p

10 of the Worlds most dangerous airports. You know if you are on the top 10, then the likely hood of airline accidents are bound to happen more often on your airport. Enjoy the video.

Verse of the Day - Surat Maryam

It is not befitting to (the majesty of) Allah that He should beget a son. Glory be to Him! when He determines a matter, He only says to it, "Be", and it is.

Haiwi kwa Mwenyezi Mungu kuwa na mwana, Subhanahu, Yeye ametakasika! Anapo lihukumia jambo basi huliambia tu: Kuwa! na Linakuwa. (Qur'an 19:35)

Have a blessed Friday everyone!

The Purpose Of Life ᴴᴰ ┇ Muslim Spoken Word ┇ The Daily Reminder ┇

Word!Snap those fingers. You know you want to.

Hadithi ya Leo - Umuhimu wa Kusoma kwenye Sala (The Importance of Reciting in Prayer)

Abu Huraira Alisema:
Mtume wa Allah(S.A.W) alisema: Mtu yeyote anaye fuatilia sala bila kusoma Qur'ani, sala yake ina mapungufu (alirudia haya mara tatu) na haija kamilika. Abu Huraira aliambiwa, saa nyingine tuko nyuma ya Imam. Alijibu, isome moyoni, kwani alimsikia Mtume wa Allah(S.A.W) akitangaza kuwa Mwenyezi Mungu alisema: Nimeigawanya sala mara mbili kati ya mimi na mtumishi wangu, na mtumishi wangu atapata anacho kiomba.
Mtumishi wangu akisema: Sifa njema zote ni za Allah, Mola mlezi wa ulimwengu.
Mwenyezi Mungu anajibu: Mja wangu kanisifia.
Na akisema: Mwingi wa Rehema , Mwenye Kurehemu.
Mwenyezi Mungu anajibu: Mja wangu kanipongeza.
Na akisema: Mmiliki wa siku ya Malipo.
Mwenyezi Mungu Anasema: Mmja wangu amenitukuza na muda mwingine husema Mmja wangu amenikabidhi mambo yake.
Na akisema: Wewe tu ndio tunaye kuabudu na wewe tu ndiye tunaye kuomba msaada.
Mwenyezi Mungu anasema: Hii ni kati yangu mimi na mmja wangu, na mmja wangu atapata anachokiomba.
Kisha Mmja anaposema: Tuongoze njia iliyo nyooka, njia ya wale ulio waneemesha, na sio ya wale ulio wakasirikia wala ya wale walio potea.
Mwenyezi Mungu anasema: Hii ni kwa ajili ya mmja wangu, na mmja wangu atapata anacho kiomba.

Sufyan alisema: 'Ala b. 'Abd a-Rahman b. Ya'qub alinihadithia nilivyo enda kumuona nyumbani kwake alivyokuwa amekabidhiwa na maradhi.

Abu Huraira reported:

The Apostle of Allah (PBUH) said: If anyone observes prayer in which he does not recite Umm al-Qur'an, It is deficient [he said this three times] and not complete. It was said to Abu Huraira: At times we are behind the Imam. He said: Recite it inwardly, for he had heard the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) declare that Allah the Exalted had said: I have divided the prayer into two halves between Me and My servant, and My servant will receive what he asks. 
When the servant says: Praise be to Allah, the Lord of the universe.
Allah the Most High says: My servant has praised Me. 
And when he (the servant) says: The Most Compassionate, the Merciful.
Allah the Most High says: My servant has lauded Me. 
And when he (the servant) says: Master of the Day of judgment,.
He remarks: My servant has glorified Me. and sometimes He would say: My servant entrusted (his affairs) to Me.
And when he (the worshiper) says: Thee do we worship and of Thee do we ask help.
He (Allah) says: This is between Me and My servant, and My servant will receive what he asks for. 
Then, when he (the worshiper) says: Guide us to the straight path, the path of those to whom Thou hast been Gracious not of those who have incurred Thy displeasure, nor of those who have gone astray.
He (Allah) says: This is for My servant, and My servant will receive what he asks for. 

Sufyan said: 'Ala b. 'Abd al-Rahman b. Ya'qub narrated it to me when I went to him and he was confined to his home on account of illness, and I asked him about it. (Muslim 4:41)

Wiki Njema Wadau!

RePost:::Happy Independence Day!

Reposting this from last year. Same date this year 2013.

Today December 9 2012, Mainland Tanzania Celebrates 51 years of Independence from Britain. Alhamdulillah! We are greatful, and may Allah give us more years of Peace and Prosperity.

I just luv this Ad, Enjoy!

Verse of the Day - Surah Al-Ma'idah(The Table Spread)

O ye who believe! stand out firmly for Allah, as witnesses to fair dealing, and let not the hatred of others to you make you swerve to wrong and depart from justice. Be just: that is next to piety: and fear Allah. For Allah is well-acquainted with all that ye do.

Enyi mlio amini! Kuweni wasimamizi madhubuti kwa ajili ya Mwenyezi Mungu mkitoa ushahidi kwa haki. Wala kuchukiana na watu kusikupelekeeni kutofanya uadilifu. Fanyeni uadilifu. Hivyo ndio kuwa karibu mno na uchamngu. Na muogopeni Mwenyezi Mungu. Hakika Mwenyezi Mungu anazo khabari za mnayo yatenda.
(Qur'an 5:8)

Ijumaa Karimu na wikiendi njema!

A Special Jummah Khutbah by Shaykh Hamza Yusuf

Ijumaa Karimu Wadau.

Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela Afariki Dunia!

(18 July 1918 – 5 December 2013)
"Hakuna Mtu anazaliwa kumchukia mwenzake kwasababu ya Rangi yake, au anapotekea, au dini yake. Watu lazima wajifunze chuki, na kama wanaweza kujifunza chuki, wanaweza pia kufundishwa upendo. Kwani upendo ni rahisi zaidi moyoni kuliko chuki."
Hayo ni maneno ya raisi wa Kwanza Mweusi wa Afrika kusini, ambaye ni kati ya watu walio pigania haki ya watu weusi na kuondoa ubaguzi nchini kwao.
Watch the video below for a 5 minute summary of his life.

A sneak Peak of his experience in Mbeya a city in Tanzania then Tanganyika, straight from his book "Long Walk to Freedom".

Bye Bye Cheetos!

Today I say my goodbyes with deep sorrow to Mr.Cheetos (Sob! Sob!), as you can see the Flamin' Hot Cheese flavored baked one is my favorite. Ever looked at the ingredients on the back of the package? Well, here is what I got from their site, I circled one ingredient in red there, see it?

Yup! Enzymes, its the ingredient they add to their cheese powder to give it that yummy flavor. Ever wonder what type of enzymes they are? Well, let me just copy and paste a statement from their website.

Verse of the Day - Surah Al-'Isra (The Night Journey)

And your Lord has decreed that you not worship except Him, and to parents, good treatment. Whether one or both of them reach old age [while] with you, say not to them [so much as], "uff," and do not repel them but speak to them a noble word.

Na Mola wako ameamrisha kuwa usimuabudu yeyote ila yeye tu, na uwatendee wema wazazi. Ikiwa mmoja wao au wote wakifikia uzeeni na wewe, basi usiwaambie hata Aah! wala usiwakemee, bali sema nao kwa heshima. (Qur'an 17:23-24)

Habari ndio hiyo...

Ijumaa Njema Wadau!

Hadithi ya Leo - Tuhuma (Suspicion)

Ime hadithiwa na Abu Huraira:
Mtume wa Mwenyezi Mungu(Rehma na Amani zimshukie) alisema, Kuweni makini na Tuhuma, kwani ni hadithi yenye uongo kuliko zote. Msitafute makosa ya wenzenu, wala kupelelezana, kuchukiana na kususiana enyi watumwa wa Allah, kuweni ndugu.


Narrated Abu Huraira:
Allah's Messenger (PBUH) said, 'Beware of suspicion, for it is the worst of false tales and don't look for the other's faults and don't spy and don't hate each other, and don't desert (cut your relations with) one another O Allah's slaves, be brothers!"  (Bukhari Vol. 8, Book 80)

Africa's First Underwater Hotel Room

Yup! If you are brave enough to sleep with the fishes, this hotel is for you. The Manta Resort, is located in one of the Islands of Tanzania called Pemba. The room goes for $ 1,500 per night or $750 per person sharing per night. Hey you only live once.

Food Inc - A documentary of The American Food Industry

Wow! is all I can say, if you have the time, check out this video. Someone sent this to me and I couldn't stop watching it. Its long so brace yourself. Enjoy!

Yaani, mkulima ananunua mbegu zi kizao kipya kilicho badilishwa na sayansi kidumu magonjwa. Lakini mkulima haruhusiwi kukusanya mbegu wakati wa mavuno, ili kuzipanda tenda. Ni lazima anunue mpya kutoka kwenye kampuni yenye hati za hizo mbegu, akibakwa anafanya kinyume, anashtakiwa mahakamani. Loh! Hiyo si kumfunga mkulima milele. Duh! ndo maana muingereza alikataa hii kitu, lakini bongo tumekubali. Mungu awastiri wakulima wetu wa jembe waelimike na haya maswala.

Is Your Computer Slow?

Well is it? Do you have a lot of ads popping up when you start your computer or open a web browser(Internet Explorer or Firefox) ? If the answer is yes, chances are your computer is infected. Not to worry, it can be fixed. Now the best option to cure your virus infection is to rebuild your computer, meaning re-installing your windows operating system and all your applications and files you have saved. However, rebuilding a computer from scratch is not a very pleasant experience, so I am going to show you a very simple do it yourself computer maintenance that IT folks do for quick fixes.

Happy Monday!

Salaam Aleykum! What a better way to start your Monday Morning, then with this delicious freshly squeezed Orange Juice full of Vitamin C,B-6, A, Calcium and Magnesium. Whether your making it for yourself or your whole family, do it with a smile.

These juicers are life savers.

Verses of the Day - Surat Luqman

And do not turn your cheek [in contempt] toward people and do not walk through the earth exultantly. Indeed, Allah does not like everyone self-deluded and boastful.
And be moderate in your pace and lower your voice; indeed, the most disagreeable of sounds is the voice of donkeys." 

Na usigeuze shavu (kwa jeuri) kwa watu, na usitembee kwenye ardhi kwa maringo, hakika Mwenyezi Mungu hampendi kila ajivunae na ajifahirishaye.
Na Uwe na mwendo wa kati, na teremshe sauti yako, bila shaka sauti ya punda ni mbaya kuliko sauti zote( kwa makelele yake ya bure).  (Qur'an 31: 18-19)

Ijumaa Njema Wandugu!

Reverse Diabetes in 30 days

I watched this documentary about how these guys were able to reverse their diabetes in 30 days, and boy did I come out as a believer. Like really, before insulin was invented, how did our ancestors survive this disease? Some of us are lucky not to have it, but based on the genetically engineered foods that are being introduced in Africa these days and the idea of feeding your chicken hormones to unnaturally reduce the growth life cycle is dangled in-front of us, who is to say we are not far off from getting it.

We know that diabetes patient are all told to watch their diets, however, they don't stop taking their pills or their insulin shots. But who knew that with a complete change of their diet and medication will be history. Now granted going Raw is not for all of us, but we can make small changes. Like making sure that atleast 50% of what we put in our tummies are from raw food sources. Badala ya kuweka robo kachumbari kwenye sahani, fanya nusu sahani ubwabwa, na nusu kachumbari. Hizo Kachumbari tuziongezee matango, karoti, kabichi, giligilani na ndimu ya kutosha. Mwili wako utakupenda, mpaka utaanza kujitibu wenyewe. Allah has really blessed us with the best of the best bodies, that we need to take care of them more often. The documentary was a definite eye opener for me, diabetes can be cured, that is once we figure out how to take control of our bodies.

Anywho, let me stop talking and let you watch this documentary so you can get rawgucated. 

Direct youtube link:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vG3V22cLUF0

I leave you with these Quotes from the Quran;

(Saying): "Eat of the good things We have provided for your sustenance, but commit no excess therein, lest My Wrath should justly descend on you: and those on whom descends My Wrath do perish indeed! (Quran 20:81)

They ask thee concerning wine and gambling. Say: "In them is great sin, and some profit, for men; but the sin is greater than the profit." They ask thee how much they are to spend; Say: "What is beyond your needs." Thus doth Allah Make clear to you His Signs: In order that ye may consider (Quran 2:219)

Ashura (The Day of Atonement)

Ashura is a day that usually falls on the 10th day of the Month of Muharram( The January of the Islamic Calendar). Its history goes back to Moses's time and it commemorates the day that the jews were freed from Egypt, Moses (A.S) fasted on this day and told the people to fast. Muslims remember this day by fasting on the 9th and 10th day of the month of Muharam. It is also a day observed in mourning, as it is the day the grandson of prophet Mohammed(S.A.W), imam Hussein ibn Ali (R.A) was killed in the Battle of Karbala. So let's try to fast on the 9th and 10th of Muharam, in order to fully participate on this day of Atonement.

Verse of the Day - Surah Al-Furqan (The Criterian)

And the servants of the Most Merciful are those who walk upon the earth easily, and when the ignorant address them [harshly], they say [words of] peace.

Na waja wa Mwenyezi Mungu,ni wale wanaokwenda ulimwenguni kwa unyenyekevu, na wajinga wakisema nao(maneno mabaya) huwajibu (maneno ya) Amani.

(Qur'an 25:63)

Wiki njema wadau!

For the Love of Water

Water is an essential element for the survival of mankind.This documentary explores water like never before, it talks about how the big corporations exploit this natural resource by trying to profit from it.Personally, I like the part where a village in India harvest water and turn their dessert village into a green lush farm land. Sometimes, the people have their own solutions, they just need a little funding and help to make it happen. The video is long, so prepare yourself, but if you haven't watched it, please do, it is a must see for all.

Direct youtube link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QvGQJsWbES4
Rainwater harvesting is such a cheap alternative to huge damns, that even communities can do it themselves. Its such a simple process of capturing, accumulating and storing rain water into large pits for future use. Why aren't we all doing it? It will solve so many of our problems and also lower that water bill huh? As I said before we are getting there.

Solar Tyre Oven for under $5 - How to make a cheap solar cooker - Tire Oven

One of the many problems we have in Africa is deforestation. How? We simply need wood to fuel everything, especially the villages, cooking, heating water etc. Women are usually left with the burden of having to go and hunt for this fuel. So in order to keep with the times and try to go green so as to preserve our planet and of cause to ease on the labor work for the women. I found a little educational video from our brother Moses in Uganda, showing us how to build our own solar oven, from; get this, an old worn out tire, some newspapers, foil paper, glass cover and some tape. Top this off with the Power of the Sun and viola it's magic.

Now getting foil paper, glass and tape might be a problem for folks in the village. Also, some folks might not be into the do it your self bandwagon, so below is a more, factory properly designed and made for a little more mula, but better quality solar stove.

I love it when we use our brain as it was designed to function. Hey! we are slow as hell, but we are getting there. 

Verse of the Day - Surat Al-'Isra (The Night Journey)

Whoever is guided is only guided for [the benefit of] his soul. And whoever errs only errs against it. And no bearer of burdens will bear the burden of another. And never would We punish until We sent a messenger.

Anaye ongoka basi anaongoka kwa ajili ya nafsi yake. Na anaye potea basi anapotea kwa khasara yake mwenyewe. Wala habebi mbebaji mzigo wa mwengine. Wala Sisi hatuadhibu mpaka tumpeleke Mtume.* (Qur'an 17:15)


* Mwenye kufuata njia ya Haki basi anajifaa mwenyewe, na mwenye kuiacha basi anajipoteza mwenyewe. Wala hapana mwenye kubeba dhambi zake akambebea dhambi za mwenginewe. Wala haitufalii kumuadhibu yeyote kwa kutenda kitu kabla hatujampelekea Mtume kutoka kwetu amwonyeshe njia ya Haki na kumkataza maovu. 

Ijumaa Njema Wadau!

Happy Islamic New Year!

As we welcome this sacred month of Muharram in the new year of 1435, let's reflect on our lives in the past year, and pray to Allah that he blesses our coming years.

Happy New Year!

May this coming year be filled with peace, love and Be Free of Greed.

Jumaa Mubarak from Dodoma, Tanzania

Today's Jumaa Greetings come from Muammar Gaddafi Masjid in Dodoma, Tanzania. This mosque was funded by the former Libyan president Muammar Gaddafi and it is the largest mosque in the city, if not the whole country.

Alhamdullilah! We are grateful to Allah and the late Gaddafi for funding this beautiful Mosque for us.May his soul rest in peace.

Mashindano ya Qur'an Pemba 2012 - Tartil Juzu 10, wanawake - 1

Each year, we have Qur'an competitions in different parts of the country. Its a good way to carry on the long term tradition of  Qur'an memorization by engaging the kids in a healthy competition, this one was done in Pemba. The judges score the reciter, sometimes the kids are told to recite a sura, or a verse is recited, and they are supposed to complete them. The winners emerge out of there with full of knowledge and plenty of presents. Well if you ask me, there are no losers.

Mashallah! It's a blessing.

The Egyptian Book of the Dead

Hey, its the weekend! So grab your comfort snack and get Egyptucated on The Egyptian Book of the Dead. Enjoy!

What's Islam? Islam in Brief - Yusuf Estes

Ijumaa Njema wadau!

Story of the Day - Animal Mutilation

Narrated Ibn Umar:
The Prophet (S.A.W) cursed the one who did Muthla to an animal (i e., cut its limbs or some other part of its body while it is still alive).
(Sahih al-Bukhari Book 72, Hadith 42)

Ibn Umar alisema:
Mtume(S.A.W) alimlaani yule mwenye kumkata mnyama kipande chochote cha mwili wake akiwa hai.

Verse of the Day - Surah Ali-Imran (Family of Imran)

Na Shikamaneni kwa kamba ya Mwenyezi Mungu nyote, wala msiachane. Na kumbukeni neema ya Mwenyeyzi Mungu iliyo juu yenu. Mlikuwa maadui; naye akaziunganisha nyoyo zenu; hivyo, kwa neema yake, mkawa ndugu. Na mlikuwa ukingoni mwa shimo la Moto, naye akakuokoeni nalo.  Namna hivi Mwenyezi Mungu anakubainishieni Aya zake ili mpate kuongoka.


And hold firmly to the rope of Allah all together and do not become divided. And remember the favor of Allah upon you - when you were enemies and He brought your hearts together and you became, by His favor, brothers. And you were on the edge of a pit of the Fire, and He saved you from it. Thus does Allah make clear to you His verses that you may be guided. (Quran 3:103)

Masjid Al-Haram 2020 Expansion project

So the government of Saudi Arabia has been improving Makka constantly, in order to accommodate the number of people that come for Hajj every year. As means of transportation have improved over the years, so has the number of pilgrims. There has been cases of people dying due to over crowding, so there is a major 2020 expansion project which is currently in progress. Anywho, enough of my talks and lets see the pics.

 Supposed to take care of people praying outside the mosque, once the inside is full.

There will be exterior doors, very large I might say. This worries me though, if these doors will be operated remotely, how do you control the masses when these doors are opening and closing. I fear people will be stuck in them. I would like to see how they thought out such scenarios.

Electric trains from Haram to Mina, Mina to Muzdalifa, Muzdalifa to Arafat.

This will really ease traffic in a town original planned for a population of 2 million current Makka residents, accommodate 3 million+ pilgrims.

And there you have it, your thoughts?

Eid Mubarak!

Raw coated plaintains

Eid is here, I thought I would share my Ghanaian plantains recipe. In Tanzania we just fry the plantains as is or cook them with coconut milk(will share this recipe soon), but a recent visit to a Ghanaian friend of mine, opened my eyes to the many things you can do to a plantain. So here is the recipe with a little twist.

-4 Ripe plantains 

-2-3 Tablespoons of crushed ginger

-1 Tablespoon of crushed garlic

-1 Tablespoon of chilli powder

-salt to taste

-Olive oil

Directions:

Cut the plantains into small round circles, coat it with the mixed ingredients above, and here comes my twist, you bake it. The amount of olive oil used is just enough to coat your bananas. If you are going to fry your plantains then you don't need to coat it with olive oil.

Put them out and they will be gone before you know it.Enjoy!

JOURNEY TO MECCA HD - Story of a traveler Ibn Batutta.

Get to know the Moroccan traveler Ibn Batutta centuries later.

Yes he's been to Tanzania, I got the statement below from wiki on his travels to the swahili coast.

Ibn Battuta continued by ship south to the Swahili Coast, a region then known in Arabic as the Bilad al-Zanj ("Land of the Zanj"),[29] with an overnight stop at the island town of Mombasa.[30] Although relatively small at the time, Mombasa would become important in the following century.[31] After a journey along the coast, Ibn Battuta next arrived in the island town of Kilwa in present-day Tanzania,[32] which had become an important transit centre of the gold trade.[33] He described the city as "one of the most beautiful and well-constructed towns in the world".[34]
Ibn Battuta recorded his visit to the Kilwa Sultanate in 1330, and commented favorably on the humility and religion of its ruler, Sultan al-Hasan ibn Sulaiman, a descendant of the legendary Ali ibn al-Hassan Shirazi. He further wrote that the authority of the Sultan extended from Malindi in the north to Inhambane in the south and was particularly impressed by the planning of the city, believing it to be the reason for Kilwa's success along the coast. From this period date the construction of the Palace of Husuni Kubwa and a significant extension to the Great Mosque of Kilwa, which was made of Coral Stones and the largest Mosque of its kind. With a change in the monsoon winds, Ibn Battuta sailed back to Arabia, first to Oman and the Strait of Hormuz then on to Mecca for the hajj of 1330 (or 1332).

This was the largest mosque on the East African Coast.

The Great Mosque of Kilwa in Tanzania

Its amazing the strides ancient people took to travel in search for knowledge. Be inspired!

LABBAIK ALLAHUMA LABBAIK

Here I am at Thy service O Lord, the recital done by the pilgrims during Hajj and Umra.

"Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik. Labbaik, La Shareek Laka, Labbaik. Innal Hamdah, Wan Nematah, Laka wal Mulk, La Shareek Laka."

"Here I am at Thy service O Lord, here I am. Here I am at Thy service and Thou hast no partners. Thine alone is All Praise and All Bounty, and Thine alone is The Sovereignty. Thou hast no partners." 

Losing A Loved One ᴴᴰ ┇ Kinetic Typography ┇ The Daily Reminder ┇

A beautiful poem by sister Tasnim Nazir. Enjoy!

Let's not forget to Fast on Arafah, which is the 9th day of Hajj.This is also the day the pilgrims will stand on the plains of Arafah to pray. We should escort our Hajj brothers and sisters, the best way we can. Its looking more like Eid will be on Tuesday, so Arafah will be on Monday.

We are all fasting, Yes?

TCF-USA FUNDRAISER IN MINNESOTA

If you are in or around the Minnesota Area, please go to show your support for education.

The Daily Show: Extended Interview: Malala Yousafzai

Meet Malala, the 16 year old Nobel peace prize candidate from Pakistan.

We are with you All the way!

TV IMAAN - Anas ibn AbdulHafidh (with English subtitle)

Masha'allah! Ijumaa Mubarak Wandugu.

The Hajj Journey

The article below was written by Kamaruddin B Hassan, as he took us through his journey to Hajj. Enjoy!

Our Tabung Haji Travel's Hajj Group KT85 left Kompleks Haji Kelana Jaya, near Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia in 10 buses on the night of 29 October 2011, with Police escort, heading for Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA). As our destination was Makkah, all male hajj pilgrims were already dressed in their ihram attire. The plane took off at about 3:15 a.m. and we landed in Jeddah about 7 hours later. We then traveled to Makkah by bus and finally reached our Dar Al-Eiman Royal Hotel located in Al-Safwa Towers just before 5:00 p.m. For Muslims, performing the hajj is the fifth and the last pillar of Islam.

We performed the umrah on that same night, led by mutawif or religious guides. Several compulsory rituals need to be performed. Firstly, we need to utter our intention in our heart to perform the umrah; this we had done earlier in the plane, while it was flying above Qarnul Manazil, Saudi Arabia, about 2 hours before the landing.

The second ritual was to perform the tawaf umrah. We entered the Masjidil Haram, the holy mosque, through King Abdul Aziz Gate or Gate Number 1. Upon seeing the Kaabah, I said to myself: "Thank you Allah for allowing me to be your guest". Before performing the tawaf, the hajj pilgrims must recite the intention just before Hajar al-Aswad or the Black Stone at the wall of Kaabah. We then walked around the Kaabah in anti-clockwise direction seven times, passing by Makam Ibrahim and Hijir Ismail.

Performing the sa'ie umrah at Safar and Marwah was the third ritual. At Safar, with our face facing Kaabah, we recited our intention to perform the sa'ie umrah and started to walk towards Marwah, about 420 metres away, and back. We did this seven times thus we should end at Marwah. At Marwah, we finished our fourth and the last ritual of umrah by cutting our hair (called tahallul); reciting our intention to part from wearing the ihram. Men were required to cut at least three strands of their hair, about 2.5 cm in length, while it will be longer for women. It is very important that all the rituals must be performed in sequence.


For several days that were left before we performed the hajj proper, we dressed in normal manner. We spent the time upgrading our religious activities, much so performing the prayers, five times per day, reading the al-Quran as well as reciting the numerous doa at the Masjidil Haram. It was made known that a prayer done at this mosque is 100,000 times better than anywhere else. We took every opportunity to drink the zam zam water after every prayer.

On 5 November (9 Zulhijjah), clad in ihram attire again, our group left for Arafah. The time was about 12:50 a.m. We uttered our intention to perform the hajj while in the bus and also recited talbiah during the journey. We must be present physically, or called wukuf, at Arafah as this is the first ritual activity for hajj. Our Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, had once said: "Hajj is Arafah". In terms of timing, all the hajj pilgrims must be at Arafah, even for a second, from zohor (afternoon) of 9 Zulhijjah till subuh (dawn) of 10 Zulhijjah. At about 12:05 p.m., we started our wukuf with a sermon, followed by zohor congregation prayer.

At Arafah, my wife Dr Rokiah and myself raised our hands high and prayed to Allah for the well- being and betterment of ourselves and our daughters, Dr. Sarah and Syazana; family members and friends. It was during this time that tears running down from our eyes. At Arafah, our minds were not thinking of anything else but just asking for the forgiveness from Allah. After isyak (night) prayer, we left for Muzdalifah. Here, we collected enough stones for melontar or 'stoning-the-devil' ritual activity at Jamarah in Mina.

We reached Mina at about 4:00 a.m. on 10 Zulhijjah (6 November 2011). Pilgrims were required to be in Mina from 10 to 13 Zulhijjah by virtue of melontar activities. As we planned to go back to Makkah for the night, we performed the molantar on the 10 Zulhijjah at Big Jamarah (Jamrah Aqaba) at about 11:50 p.m., followed by cutting our hairs. Again, by cutting our hairs, we can then part with our ihram attire. We then walked towards Makkah with four other friends and reached our hotel about one hour and ten minutes later.


The next day, my wife and myself went back to Mina as pillion passengers for 100 Saudi Riyal each. We stopped at Jamarah and performed the melontar at Small Jamarah, Middle Jamarah and Big Jamarah. The rituals were repeated on the next two days. We left Mina for Makkah by bus in the afternoon of 13 Zulhijjah. To complete the hajj rituals, we still need to perform the tawaf haji and sa'ie haji. I did this with my wife on 12 November 2011, after Isyak prayer.

After performing tawaf wada', we left for Madinah on 1 December, reaching our hotel at about 10:00 p.m. While in Madinah, we prayed at the Masjid Nabawi which was 1,000 times better than anywhere else. We also prayed at the Raudhah as well as passing by and performing the doa in front of the magnificent tombs of Prophet Muhammad, Saiyidina Abu Bakar and Saiyidina Omar.
I did also convey my friends' greetings to the Prophet. For the next few days, the organizer brought us to visit the surrounding areas such as Masjid Quba, Masjid Kiblatain, Bukit Uhud, Khandak and date farm.


During our free time, usually before afternoon prayer, my wife and I did a little shopping for dates and other items at Taiba Complex and the surrounding areas.
On 10 December 2011, we performed the wada' ritual at Masjid Nabawi before we left for Madinah Airport. The plane took off at about 8:25 a.m. local time and landed at KLIA at about 9:25 p.m. Truly enough, the experience gained once in a life time when performing the hajj was just something which stays in the mind forever. Thank you Allah for making it possible for me and my wife.

Every year, about 2.5 million Muslims from all over world converge to Makkah and surrounding areas, in the month of Zulhijjah, to perform the fifth pillar of Islam, i.e. the Hajj. They conducted the rituals in peace.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kamaruddin_B_Hassan

What is Islam?

A little introduction to Islam by Ustadh Nouman Ali Khan.

Ijumaa Karimu wandugu.

Preparation for Eid

Eid Al-Adha is coming up here, expected to be around October 14th-15th, depending on the lunar calendar. This is our biggest religious holiday, commemorating prophet Ibrahim (May Allah be pleased with him), for his complete obedience to Allah when he was being tested. We all know the story of Ibrahim(Abraham), Ismail (Ishmael) and the GREATEST TEST OF All TIME.  You know we would have all failed it miserably.

So here are a few tips to prepare in advance for it:

1. ASK FOR TIME OFF IN ADVANCE.
This applies if you are in a country where you are scheduled to work, don't do the last minute calling in sick deal. Geez, this is a major holiday that you need to spend with your family, I'm sure your boss will understand.

2. HIT THE STORES EARLY
Make sure that you hit those Sales early, so as to get the best clothes(pamba) and pressies for your peeps (kids, neighbors, relatives, friends, orphans, poor, etc). Some stores have already started with the Eid Sales, get on it before they run out of the good stuff.

3. SECURE THAT GOAT EARLY
I don't know about you, but over here, the price of Goat goes up on the day off or a day or two before. You can get more goats to distribute to charity for less.

4. COMPLETE THE 3rd PILLAR OF ISLAM (CHARITY)
Start with your local community to see if there is a need, if not, go further out or better yet, hit the internet and you will find plenty of AID organizations such as, Muslim AID,  Islamic Relief Organization, Red Cresent, etc. Take your pick!

6. SMILE
Don't over think and stress on the day's events and just let it roll. Life is how you make it, surround yourself with positive energy and the rest will just sort itself out. Just Remember Allah is with you all the way.

I leave you with this verse from the Qur'an....

Alms are for the poor and the needy, and those employed to administer the (funds); for those whose hearts have been (recently) reconciled (to Truth); for those in bondage and in debt; in the cause of Allah; and for the wayfarer: (thus is it) ordained by Allah, and Allah is full of knowledge and wisdom.    
(Qur'an chapter 9 verse 60)

Sura ya Leo "Al-'Asr" (The Declining Day)

Naapa kwa Zama!

Hakika binaadamu bila ya shaka yumo katika khasara,

Ila wale walio amini, na wakatenda mema, na wakausiana kwa haki, na wakausiana kusubiri.

By (the Token of) Time (through the ages),

Verily Man is in loss,

Except such as have Faith, and do righteous deeds, and (join together) in the mutual teaching of Truth, 

and of Patience and Constancy.

Qur'an Chapter 103

Hajj at a Glance

A little information as we prep for Hajj, which is expected to fall on October 13-18. May Allah light a clear path to all our Hajj participants.

Ijumaa Karimu Wandugu!

Let's have a little bit more focus on our prayers then the guy below on this video.

I got this forwarded to me, Special dedication to all you ManU and Liverpool fans. Hilarious!

POWERFUL Mufti Ismail Menk Talk - "Change For The Better" + DUA!!!

Great Words from the Mufti. Let's not be Laaaaaazy!!!!!

Island Emerges in Pakistan

 

A recent EarthQuake in Pakistan caused a new island to emerge off the coast of the town of Gwadar.

Its oval in Shape, about 250-300ft in lenght and 60-70ft above water.

It is mostly muddy, with some parts having fine to coarse grained sand and other parts being solid rock. It emits gas, and Geologists say, its not expected to stay over water for long, it will probably sink back in over time, and its a continual process of the continental drift.
According to Rashid Tabrez, who is the director general of the Karachi based National Institute of Oceanography, its caused by the energy released by seismic movements which pushes the sea floor to the surface. Apparently, this is the fourth Island in the region since 1945. Well, folks of Gwadar are very lucky to witness these events in their lifetime.

Source: BBC

Verses of the day - Surah Al-Fajr (The Dawn)

And as for man, when his Lord tries him and [thus] is generous to 

him and favors him, he says, "My Lord has honored me." But when He tries him and restricts his provision, he says, "My Lord has humiliated me." 

No! But you do not honor the orphan.

And you do not encourage one another to feed the poor.

And you consume inheritance, devouring [it] altogether,

And you love wealth with immense love. 

No! When the earth has been leveled - pounded and crushed -

And your Lord has come and the angels, rank upon rank,

And brought [within view], that Day, is Hell - that Day, 

man will remember, but what good to him will be the remembrance?

He will say, "Oh, I wish I had sent ahead [some good] for my life."

So on that Day, none will punish [as severely] as His punishment,

And none will bind [as severely] as His binding [of the evildoers].

[To the righteous it will be said], "O reassured soul,

Return to your Lord, well-pleased and pleasing [to Him],

And enter among My [righteous] servants

And enter My Paradise." [Quran 89:15-30]

Jumaa Kareem everyone!

Global Wealth Inequality - What you never knew you never knew

A little reality check of how the world is run.

Americans use the Internet to abandon children adopted from overseas

This is an interesting article from Reuters, and I think that everyone can relate to it, not only Americans. If you know within your heart that you cannot love a child that you did not give birth to the same way as your own biological child, please don't adopt, and instead support the child's upbringing where they are. You know, pay for their schooling, living expenses and etc. These kids grow up in tough environments that shape their characters, and it will require a lot of work, love and dedication from the Adopted parents to undo some of these characters. May God protect these kids.

When a Liberian girl proves too much for her parents, they advertise her online and give her to a couple they’ve never met. Days later, she goes missing.

KIEL, Wisconsin – Todd and Melissa Puchalla struggled for more than two years to raise Quita, the troubled teenager they'd adopted from Liberia. 
When they decided to give her up,they found new parents to take her in less than two days – by posting an ad on the Internet.

Nicole and Calvin Eason, an Illinois couple in their 30s, saw the ad and a picture of the smiling 16-year-old. They were eager to take Quita, even though the ad warned that she had been diagnosed with severe health and behavioral problems. In emails, Nicole Eason assured Melissa Puchalla that she could handle the girl.

"People that are around me think I am awesome with kids," Eason wrote.

A few weeks later, on Oct. 4, 2008, the Puchallas drove six hours from their Wisconsin home to Westville, Illinois. The handoff took place at the Country Aire Mobile Home Park, where the Easons lived in a trailer.

No attorneys or child welfare officials came with them. The Puchallas simply signed a notarized statement declaring these virtual strangers to be Quita's guardians. The visit lasted just a few hours. It was the first and the last time the couples would meet.

To Melissa Puchalla, the Easons "seemed wonderful." Had she vetted them more closely, she might have discovered what Reuters would learn:

• Child welfare authorities had taken away both of Nicole Eason's biological children years earlier. After a sheriff's deputy helped remove the Easons' second child, a newborn baby boy, the deputy wrote in his report that the "parents have severe psychiatric problems as well with violent tendencies."

• The Easons each had been accused by children they were babysitting of sexual abuse, police reports show. They say they did nothing wrong, and neither was charged.

• The only official document attesting to their parenting skills – one purportedly drafted by a social worker who had inspected the Easons' home – was fake, created by the Easons themselves.

On Quita's first night with the Easons, her new guardians told her to join them in their bed, Quita says today. Nicole slept naked, she says.

Within a few days, the Easons stopped responding to Melissa Puchalla's attempts to check on Quita, Puchalla says. When she called the school that Quita was supposed to attend, an administrator told Puchalla that the teenager had never shown up.

Read the rest of the story here....

LatePost::Seven Tanzania Peacekeepers killed in Darfur Sudan

During Ramadhan, Seven UN peacekeepers who were from Tanzania, were killed in Darfur. Their names were:

1. Sergent Shaibu Othuman, 
2. Corporal Oswald Chaula, 
3. Corporal Mohamed Juma, 
4. Corporal Mohamed Chikilizo, 
5. Pte. Rodney Ndunguru, 
6. Pte. Peter Werema,
7. Pte. Fortunatus Msofe.

May Allah rest their souls in peace. My Prayers are also with the families of the deceased, May Allah bless their homes and give them peace. Read the full story from DailyNews below.

Hussein Samatar

At times its sad to hear the news of the passing of people who have done so much for their communities and Hussein Samatar is one of them. His focus was to teach people not to be dependent, but be independent financially so that they can sustain their own lives and their families. As always we all have an ending, and his time was up. Inna lillahi wa inna illahi rajiun (To Allah we belong and to him is our return). May Allah forgive his sins and grant this brother Jannah. Below is his story that I nabbed from the Star tribune.

Cancer has deprived Minneapolis of one of its best and brightest. School board member Hussein Samatar died Sunday at age 45 after battling chronic leukemia. Earlier this year, before learning that he needed a bone-­marrow transplant, he had considered running for mayor.

Samatar’s life story is nothing short of remarkable. He came to the United States in the early 1990s as a civil war refugee from his native Somalia. He taught himself English, earned an MBA from the University of St. Thomas, became a banker, then founded the now 10-year-old African Development Center. There he devised a way to structure loans that would not violate tenets of the Islamic faith, an innovation that helped launch at least 50 businesses.

Samatar entered public service in 2006, when Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak appointed him to the Minneapolis Library Board. In 2010, he ran unopposed for Minneapolis school board and put his expertise to work for education. Because education had been so important to his success, he championed important reforms to improve learning for Minneapolis students. And during his brief time on the board, the district began collecting academic data in four languages, including Somali.

After his election, he was the only one of five incoming board members who refused to sign a letter that chastised the outgoing board. The letter, on Minneapolis Federation of Teachers union letterhead, took the board to task for difficult contract negotiations. Although Samatar had been endorsed by the union, he wisely understood that it was inappropriate for incoming board members to take sides.

Political activism within the Somali community expanded in part because of Samatar’s leadership. He was the first of his immigrant community to become an elected official, but likely won’t be the last. His success encouraged others.

Samatar helped open doors of opportunity for many. He was an example of the power of hard work and persistence. His life and accomplishments are inspirational — not only for immigrants, but for the entire community.

One can only imagine what Samatar might have accomplished with another 25 years. Though his life was cut short, his legacy will live on in the many lives he touched and in his many contributions to the city of Minneapolis.

Eid Mubarak 2013!

Eid Mubarak My People.

 For folks following the Ummul-Qura calendar of Saudi Arabia and the Fiqh council of North America, and for our folks in Chile and the  Polynesian Islands yours is on Thursday August 8th 2013.According to Sheikh Alhad Musa Salum spokesperson for BAKWATA(The National Muslim Council of Tanzania) on Chanel 10, there was no reported sighting in neither the mainland nor the islands of Tanzania and Kenya, so Eid will be on Friday August 9th for us as we follow the traditional local moon sighting.

Islamic Call for Prayer - Ben Youcef

Adhan, the Islamic call for prayer by Ben Youcef. He is an actor who has had roles in Law & Order and Munich. This was done at an interfaith meeting, but you can usually find him on the King Fahad Mosque in Culver city, California  doing the Adhan 3 times a week.

Read the rest of his biography that I nabbed from his website.

"I was born in Algiers on The Mediterranean Coast into a family of 7 children. Fighting for attention among my brothers and sisters was probably where my acting career really began. Throughout my life I've been exposed to many cultures. My father was an Algerian diplomat stationed in Saudi Arabia for much of my childhood. I moved to London for University where I studied Business with a minor in Theatre. Before moving to Los Angeles I spent two years modeling for leading magazines and advertisers in NYC.

My objective as an actor is to bring a new understanding of the Middle Eastern culture to the rest of the world. My life integrates the Islamic spirit with modern energy. I still retain an almost naive way of seeing the world that comes from a truthful place of a kid that was me."

- Ben Youcef
To read the rest of his story and reviews, go here...

Qaswida Kutoka Sweden Leo‏

Assalamu Alayka by Maher Zain.

I love the chorus
Peace be upon you, My
My Messenger of God
Peace be upon you, My beloved
My Prophet of God

Read his full biography that I nabbed from last.fm.

Maher Zain (Arabic: ماهر زين‎) (born March 16, 1981 in Tripoli, Lebanon) is a Swedish R&B singer, songwriter and music producer of Lebanese origin. He also resided for a while in the United States. His debut album Thank You Allah, with 13 songs and two bonus tracks was released on 1 November 2009, with an exclusive Percussion Version and a French Version released shortly afterwards. He sings mainly in English, but also, amongst others, in French, Arabic, Urdu, Turkish, Indonesian and Malay.

Maher’s first musical inspiration came from his father, who was a singer himself, performing locally in the beautiful Mediterranean city of Tripoli - Lebanon. Fascinated by the music and instruments, Maher got his first keyboard when he was only ten and ever since music officially became part of Maher’s world.

The family moved to Sweden when Maher was only 8, where he continued his schooling, and later entered university and got a Bachelors degree in Aeronautical Engineering. With things changing around him, one thing remained the same - his strong passion for music. He would spend late nights at school with his friends where they would sing, rap, compose and experiment with music in every way. It didn’t take him long to realize that music became an integral part of who he is.

Story of the Day -Food(Chakula)

Miqdam bin Madikarib said:

“I heard the Messenger of Allah (Peace and Blessings be upon him) say: ‘A human being fills no worse vessel than his stomach. It is sufficient for a human being to eat a few mouthfuls to keep his spine straight. But if he must (fill it), then one third of food, one third for drink and one third for air.’”

Miqdam bin Madikarib alisema:

"Nilimsikia Mtume wa Allah( Rehema na Baraka zimshukie) akisema: 'Hakuna chombo kibaya binadamu hukijaza kama tumbo lake. Inamtosha Binadamu kula madonge machache kuusimamisha imara uti wake wa mgongo. Lakini ikimbidi aujaze, basi aweke theluthi moja chakula, theluthi moja maji, na theluthi moja hewa'".