Muslims Forum

In many households today, the focus on academic excellence, career growth, and extracurricular success is stronger than ever. Parents work hard to provide the best opportunities for their children to thrive in the modern world. While this is commendable, it also brings forth an important question: Is Islamic education receiving the attention it truly deserves in our homes? It's becoming increasingly common to see children excelling in school, mastering technology, and shining in sports—yet facing difficulty in reading the Qur’an with proper tajweed, understanding the meanings of their daily prayers, or knowing the stories of our beloved Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. This observation isn't meant to place blame, but rather to encourage honest reflection on what we’re prioritizing as a community. Points to Reflect On 1. Balancing Deen and Dunya As the world becomes more fast-paced and competitive, it’s easy for worldly education to overshadow spiritual development. But Islam teaches us...

  Muslim Women Today: Honoring the Past, Shaping the Future Throughout Islamic history, Muslim women have played essential and dynamic roles. From the entrepreneurial excellence of Khadijah (RA), to the profound scholarship of Aisha (RA), to the compassionate strength of Fatimah (RA)—their legacies remain shining examples of leadership, intelligence, and devotion. In today’s rapidly changing world, Muslim women continue to carry that legacy forward—navigating modern challenges while staying grounded in faith. As global opportunities grow, so too do the responsibilities many Muslim women shoulder: balancing religious identity with active engagement in education, careers, family, community work, and leadership roles. Here are some important points for reflection: 1. Breaking Stereotypes Despite rich historical contributions, Muslim women are often reduced to one-dimensional portrayals in mainstream media—either as oppressed or voiceless. These misrepresentations ignore the lived...

One of the most profound and beautiful teachings in Islam is the value placed on serving others. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ was not only the final Messenger of Allah but also a devoted servant to his community. He cared for the poor, comforted the grieving, and placed the needs of others before his own — embodying compassion in its truest form. Yet today, in a world driven by speed, competition, and self-interest, the essence of khidmah (service) often fades into the background. We’re constantly pushed to chase personal achievements, status, and material success. But in this pursuit, we sometimes forget the immense barakah and spiritual fulfillment that comes from simply helping others. The Prophet ﷺ said: “The people most loved by Allah are those who are most beneficial to others.” (Reported by At-Tabarani) This powerful reminder shows that service doesn’t have to be grand or public to be meaningful. It can be as simple as visiting someone who is unwell, feeding a hungry person, ...

 Death is one of the most certain and profound realities of life—an event that every soul is destined to encounter. In Islam, death is not considered the end of our story, but rather the beginning of a new chapter in our eternal journey. Understanding what follows death is essential for every believer, as it gives meaning to our actions, refines our purpose, and motivates us to live with intention in this temporary world. “Every soul shall taste death. Then to Us you will be returned.” — Surah Al-‘Ankabut (29:57) The Moment of Death At the appointed time, the soul ( ruh ) is taken from the body. The Qur’an describes this event as being carried out by angels sent by Allah ﷻ. “Those whose souls the angels take while they were pure will be told, ‘Peace be upon you. Enter Paradise for what you used to do.’” — Surah An-Nahl (16:32) For the righteous, this moment is peaceful—the soul is gently removed, welcomed with glad tidings, and comforted by the angels. However, for those...

 Repenting from major sins in Islam requires more than just words—it’s a conscious, heartfelt return to Allah. Tawbah (repentance) is a sacred process that involves turning away from sin with sincerity, humility, and a true desire for spiritual renewal. It’s not simply saying Astaghfirullah , but engaging deeply with the state of your heart and actions. 1. Genuine Regret The first step is to truly feel remorse for the sin. Acknowledge the gravity of what was done and feel sincere sorrow for having disobeyed Allah ﷻ. 2. Stop the Sin Immediately True repentance requires that the sinful act comes to a complete halt. One cannot claim to repent while continuing the wrongdoing. 3. Resolve Never to Return Make a firm and honest commitment not to repeat the sin. Even if one slips again in the future, the intention during repentance must be genuine and determined. Read More On Muslim Forum

 As we welcome the Islamic year 1447 AH, it's a meaningful time for Muslims to reconnect with the spiritual rhythm of the Hijri calendar. Rooted in the lunar cycle, this calendar does more than mark dates—it serves as a compass for our faith, guiding us through moments of reflection, worship, and remembrance of our rich Islamic heritage. Muharram – Welcoming the New Islamic Year Muharram, the first month of the Hijri year, is one of the four sacred months in Islam. It sets the tone for the year ahead with an emphasis on spiritual renewal, reflection, and reverence. 🔹 Key Date: 10th Muharram – The Day of Ashura Ashura holds deep historical and spiritual significance. It commemorates the miraculous deliverance of Prophet Musa (peace be upon him) and the Children of Israel from the tyranny of Pharaoh. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ fasted on this day and recommended others to do the same as a form of gratitude and worship. Virtue: Fasting on Ashura expiates the sins of the past year. ...

  Muslim unity is a topic that stirs deep emotion—often spoken about with longing, nostalgia, and a sincere hope for a united Ummah. From Friday sermons to youth programs, the call for unity echoes constantly. Yet, in a world shaped by political borders, sectarian rifts, differing ideologies, and cultural variations, many Muslims wonder: Is true unity just a dream, or can it become a reality? Where We Are Now Today, the global Muslim population stands at over 1.9 billion, representing a mosaic of nations, ethnicities, and traditions. Despite our shared belief in the oneness of Allah and the finality of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, divisions persist—be it through political unrest, sectarianism, or social disconnection. The disunity we see is painful, but it doesn’t mean hope is lost. Understanding True Unity Unity in Islam doesn’t mean absolute agreement on every issue or the erasure of cultural diversity. Rather, it means being united in our essential beliefs—faith in Allah ﷻ and H...

 As the global wellness industry continues to expand, many Muslims are turning to Islamic holistic health practices—not merely as cultural traditions, but as deeply rooted, spiritually aligned tools for achieving physical and emotional well-being. From Hijama (cupping therapy) to herbal remedies , and Sunnah superfoods like honey, dates, and black seed, these time-honored Prophetic practices are experiencing a meaningful revival in today’s fast-paced, health-conscious world. What makes this shift even more compelling is how seamlessly Islamic wellness aligns with modern wellness trends. Clean eating, mindfulness, and natural living are concepts often hailed by contemporary health advocates—yet they have long been embedded within the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. For example, the emphasis on eating in moderation, being present and grateful while eating ( tasmiyah ), and choosing pure, wholesome foods ( tayyib ) are all practices endorsed by Islam over 1,400 years ago. Tak...

 As concerns about fast fashion and its environmental toll continue to grow, a new generation of Muslim designers is reshaping the landscape of modest fashion. Today, Islamic clothing is not only about dressing modestly—it's also about making thoughtful, ethical choices. Sustainable Hijabs & Abayas From hijabs crafted with organic cotton to abayas made from bamboo fibers and recycled textiles, eco-conscious innovation is taking center stage. Designers like Hana Tajima, Imane Ayissi, and emerging ethical boutiques around the world are showing that modest fashion can be both stylish and sustainable—proving that faith and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand. Read More On Muslim Forum

 Cryptocurrency has rapidly emerged as a groundbreaking form of digital asset, sparking widespread interest—including among Muslims. But one critical question remains: Is cryptocurrency halal or haram? The answer is complex, and scholars continue to explore its compatibility with Islamic finance principles. Islamic Views on Cryptocurrency Halal Perspective: Some scholars view cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin as permissible, provided they are used as a legitimate medium of exchange and not for unlawful purposes. They liken it to foreign currency trading ( sarf ), which is allowed under Islamic law when conducted with transparency and fairness. The key condition is that the transaction must avoid speculation and ensure ethical use. Read More On Muslim Forum

 In today’s hyper-connected world, young Muslims are increasingly turning to platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter) to champion justice and amplify their voices. From advocating for Palestinian liberation to addressing climate change and refugee crises, Muslim youth are merging their faith with digital activism in powerful ways. The Rise of Faith-Driven Digital Activism Islam has always emphasized speaking out against injustice ( zulm ) and upholding truth. Today’s Muslim youth are bringing that legacy to the digital space by: Sharing real-time updates from conflict zones and marginalized communities. Raising awareness about human rights violations through engaging and educational content. Mobilizing support and action for humanitarian efforts on a global scale. Through this blend of faith and activism, a new generation is using technology not just to inform—but to inspire change rooted in Islamic values. Read More On Muslim Forum

 Throughout Islamic history, scholars have been the guardians and transmitters of sacred knowledge, guiding the ummah through every generation. Yet in today’s digital age—where information is abundant and instantly available—the dynamic between everyday Muslims and scholars is evolving, sometimes in ways that create confusion or imbalance. Some argue that we lean too heavily on scholars, relying on them for even the most basic aspects of our faith without engaging personally. Others suggest we undervalue their role, bypassing centuries of scholarship in favor of trending social media opinions or quick online searches. So, where should we draw the line? When Reliance Becomes Excessive At times, Muslims may shy away from engaging with the Qur’an and Hadith directly, assuming that religious knowledge is too complex to grasp without scholarly mediation. This over-reliance can lead to: Blind adherence (taqlid) – Following rulings without understanding the reasoning behind them. ...

One of the remarkable features of Islamic tradition is the presence of multiple madhāhib (schools of thought), such as the Hanafi, Shafi'i, Maliki, and Hanbali schools. Each of these schools developed through rigorous scholarship grounded in the Qur’an and Sunnah. Rather than being a sign of division, this diversity highlights the richness and depth of Islamic jurisprudence. Yet for many Muslims today, encountering differing practices or opinions can sometimes lead to confusion—or worse, unnecessary tension. So how do we navigate these differences with respect and unity? Appreciating the Foundations of Diversity It’s important to recognize that the variations between madhāhib do not stem from disagreements over fundamental beliefs. Instead, they are rooted in valid scholarly differences, such as: Linguistic interpretation – Subtle differences in how Arabic words are understood. Access to hadith – Early scholars may have had access to different sets of narrations or asse...

At just 17, Fatima Abdulrahman Al Awadhi has made history by becoming the youngest Emirati to summit Mount Elbrus (5,642 m) —the highest peak in Europe. This remarkable achievement marks another milestone in her pursuit of the Seven Summits Challenge , a daring quest to climb the tallest mountain on each continent. A Climber with a Global Vision Fatima’s journey began last year when she successfully ascended Mount Kilimanjaro , Africa’s tallest mountain. Now, with Mount Elbrus conquered, she has completed two of the seven peaks, steadily progressing on her ambitious path. Supported by Vision and Sponsorship Her latest climb was made possible through the support of Finance House , a UAE-based institution that champions youth empowerment. With their backing, Fatima overcame freezing temperatures and rugged terrain to raise the UAE flag proudly at Europe’s highest point. A Tribute to Leadership and Youth Potential Fatima dedicated her climb to the UAE’s leadership, especially Pre...

 In today’s fast-paced and pressure-filled world, anger has sadly become a common response to even minor frustrations—whether it’s a disagreement at home, stress at work, or an online comment. Many of us find ourselves reacting with irritation more often than we’d like. However, Islam offers a deeper understanding: real strength doesn’t come from raising our voices or overpowering others, but from mastering our emotions and maintaining control during moments of anger. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: “The strong is not the one who overcomes others by strength, but the one who controls himself while in anger.” (Sahih al-Bukhari and Muslim) This hadith challenges the common worldly notion of strength. In Islam, true strength is not measured by physical dominance, but by emotional restraint. Controlling anger is not just a noble trait—it is a step toward earning Allah’s pleasure and the rewards of the Hereafter. The Prophet ﷺ also said: “Whoever suppresses their anger while having the pow...

 As the world faces the urgent realities of climate change and environmental degradation , a powerful question is emerging within the Muslim community: Can mosques become leaders in sustainability? Far from being a modern trend, the idea of environmentally conscious masjids is deeply rooted in Islamic values . The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught the importance of cleanliness, conservation , and living in balance with nature. He discouraged wastefulness—even advising moderation in using water for wudu , even beside a flowing river. These prophetic teachings offer a timeless foundation for how we can build and manage our mosques today. Reviving the Sunnah Through Sustainability Across the globe, more mosques are embracing this vision by integrating eco-friendly practices into their design and daily operations. Examples include: Solar panels for renewable energy Energy-efficient lighting and appliances Rainwater harvesting systems for reuse Recycling programs and waste reduction stra...

 Around the globe, Muslim minorities are increasingly facing challenges —from verbal harassment and workplace discrimination to travel restrictions, hate crimes, and systemic marginalization. In many regions, public attitudes and policies have created an environment where simply practicing Islam or expressing Muslim identity can lead to isolation and fear. While raising awareness and fostering unity within the Ummah is crucial, it is equally important to know how to legally protect our rights and secure a safer future for the next generation. Know Your Rights The first step is education . Muslim minorities must be aware of their constitutional and legal protections , especially in democratic societies where freedom of religion, expression, and association are often enshrined in law. Understanding how anti-discrimination laws apply to areas like housing, employment, education , and public services empowers individuals to stand against injustice with confidence. Use Legal Avenues...

Parenting teenagers has always come with challenges—but in today’s hyper-connected, fast-moving digital age, the task is more complex than ever, especially for Muslim parents striving to instill faith, character, and values in their children. With constant exposure to social media, online games, streaming platforms , and a flood of unfiltered content, teens face daily influences that often contradict Islamic teachings . Concepts like modesty, prayer, discipline , and even belief in Allah ﷻ can slowly fade under the weight of entertainment culture and peer pressure. So how can parents help their teens stay anchored? Lay a Strong Foundation Early It all starts at home. When Islamic values are taught with love, patience, and consistency from a young age, those teachings are more likely to stay with children into their teenage years. Make salah, Qur’an recitation , and open discussions about Islam a normal and enriching part of family life—not as obligations, but as meaningful, share...

Conflict is an unavoidable part of life—whether it unfolds within our families, at work, or in the broader community. But as Muslims, we are taught not to respond with anger or resentment. Instead, we are guided toward Sabr (patience), a virtue that the Qur’an and Sunnah elevate as a sign of true strength and spiritual maturity. Patience is not weakness—it is the foundation of emotional resilience and a pathway to lasting peace within ourselves and with others. Allah says in the Qur’an: "Indeed, the patient will be given their reward without account." (Surah Az-Zumar, 39:10) This verse shows the unmatched value of patience—an act so noble that its reward is limitless. A Timeless Example: The Prophet ﷺ at Ta’if One of the most profound examples of patience in the life of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ was his journey to Ta’if. After enduring hostility in Makkah, he turned to the people of Ta’if, hoping they would support his mission. Instead, they ridiculed him, rejected his ...

Islamic schools hold a vital responsibility—not only to educate young minds but also to nurture their spiritual growth . In an age where academic success often takes precedence, we must ask: Are our schools preparing students for both worldly achievement and eternal success? The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: “The best among you are those who learn the Qur’an and teach it.” Yet, he also emphasized the value of practical knowledge, moral integrity, self-discipline , and service to others. Truly Islamic education must strive to balance deen and dunya , guiding students to thrive in both. Integrating Faith and Learning A meaningful Islamic education should not treat Islamic studies and secular subjects as separate realms. Rather, it should weave faith into every area of knowledge —helping students understand that Islam is relevant in all aspects of life. For example: Studying biology becomes a reflection on Allah’s intricate design of the human body. Exploring history can reveal ...