i2L Academy presents
in collaboration with
Society of Iqbal Studies (SOIS)
Waheed Murad: a Spiritual Journey
3-Hour Workshop by Khurram Ali Shafique
Waheed Murad (1938-1983) was more than the greatest screen idol of our cinema. He was a producer, director and writer dedicated to promoting hope, patriotism and moral values through his work. This is a three-hour interactive session on key issues raised in Ishara (1969), a film that was written, produced and directed by Waheed Murad (and the only Pakistan film to experiment in the stream of consciousness). The session has been extremely popular in universities in Pakistan and abroad, and on the Internet, and is being repeated here on popular demand.
Saturday, September 25, 2010
3:30 pm to 6:30 pm
i2L Academy, Ahsan Memorial, 201-O, Block 2 (Opposite Ghausia Mosque), P.E.C.H.Society, Karachi.
Contact: Dr. Irfan Haider, hyder@pafkiet.edu.pk
For Directions: Mr. Waqar, 0346 321 6009
Driving on Tariq Road, if you are going from the liberty signal towards Allah Walla Chowk, take third left, and then take fourth right. Masjid Ghausia would be on your left (if you don't see the Masjid, you are lost; ask for it). I2L Academy (201/O) is right in front of the shops in the Mosque adjacent to International School.
From Allah Walla Chowk if you are on Shahrahe Quaideen, going towards nursery, take left on the road just after McDonalds. Then, take fifth right. On your left would be Imperial Court (Chinese Restaurant). Go down and then take 3rd right. Masjid Ghausia and its shops would be on your left. (if you don't see the Masjid, you are lost; ask for it). I2L Academy (201/O) is right in front of the shops in the Mosque adjacent to International school.
__._,_.___
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Friday, September 17, 2010
Ibne Safi: the untold story
i2L Academy presents
in collaboration with
Society of Iqbal Studies (SOIS)
Ibne Safi: the untold story
3-Hour Workshop by Ahmad Safi & Rashid Ashraf
Saturday, September 18, 2010
4 pm to 7 pm
i2L Academy, Ahsan Memorial, 201-O, Block 2 (Opposite Ghausia Mosque), P.E.C.H.Society, Karachi.
Contact: Dr. Irfan Haider, hyder@pafkiet.edu.pk
For Directions: Mr. Waqar, 0346 321 6009
1. Driving on Tariq Road, if you are going from the liberty signal towards Allah Walla Chowk, take third left, and then take fourth right. Masjid Ghausia would be on your left (if you don’t see the Masjid, you are lost; ask for it). I2L Academy (201/O) is right in front of the shops in the Mosque adjacent to International School.
2. From Allah Walla Chowk if you are on Shahrahe Quaideen, going towards nursery, take left on the road just after McDonalds. Then, take fifth right. On your left would be Imperial Court (Chinese Restaurant). Go down and then take 3rd right. Masjid Ghausia and its shops would be on your left. (if you don’t see the Masjid, you are lost; ask for it). I2L Academy (201/O) is right in front of the shops in the Mosque adjacent to International school.
Friday, July 30, 2010
The Power of Consensus
How are our personal opinions related to the opinions of the society, and do we lose or win by respecting this connection? What are the types of consensus and how we recognize them? Why do we need to recognize them? Are there existing sources of moral power which we have failed to utilize? How can we empower ourselves with least effort?
These are some of the core issues of Iqbal Studies that will be addressed in a two-hour session conducted by Khurram Ali Shafique, Research Consultant, Iqbal Academy Pakistan.
Saturday, July 31, 2010
4 pm to 6 pm
I2L Academy, 201-O, Block 2 (Opposite Ghausia Mosque), P.E.C.H.Society, Karachi.
Contact: Dr. Irfan Haider, hyder@pafkiet.edu.pk
For Directions: Mr. Waqar, 0346 321 6009
1. Driving on Tariq Road, if you are going from the liberty signal towards Allah Walla Chowk, take third left, and then take fourth right. Masjid Ghausia would be on your left (if you don’t see the Masjid, you are lost; ask for it). I2L Academy (201/O) is right in front of the shops in the Mosque adjacent to International School.
2. From Allah Walla Chowk if you are on Shahrahe Quaideen, going towards nursery, take left on the road just after McDonalds. Then, take fifth right. On your left would be Imperial Court (Chinese Restaurant). Go down and then take 3rd right. Masjid Ghausia and its shops would be on your left. (if you don’t see the Masjid, you are lost; ask for it). I2L Academy (201/O) is right in front of the shops in the Mosque adjacent to International school.
These are some of the core issues of Iqbal Studies that will be addressed in a two-hour session conducted by Khurram Ali Shafique, Research Consultant, Iqbal Academy Pakistan.
Saturday, July 31, 2010
4 pm to 6 pm
I2L Academy, 201-O, Block 2 (Opposite Ghausia Mosque), P.E.C.H.Society, Karachi.
Contact: Dr. Irfan Haider, hyder@pafkiet.edu.pk
For Directions: Mr. Waqar, 0346 321 6009
1. Driving on Tariq Road, if you are going from the liberty signal towards Allah Walla Chowk, take third left, and then take fourth right. Masjid Ghausia would be on your left (if you don’t see the Masjid, you are lost; ask for it). I2L Academy (201/O) is right in front of the shops in the Mosque adjacent to International School.
2. From Allah Walla Chowk if you are on Shahrahe Quaideen, going towards nursery, take left on the road just after McDonalds. Then, take fifth right. On your left would be Imperial Court (Chinese Restaurant). Go down and then take 3rd right. Masjid Ghausia and its shops would be on your left. (if you don’t see the Masjid, you are lost; ask for it). I2L Academy (201/O) is right in front of the shops in the Mosque adjacent to International school.
Saturday, May 29, 2010
POST BY UROOJ MALIK
"What is that part which is greater than its whole? What is the way to find that part?"
Heart is the smaller part of our body in comparison to different other parts, but it has some surprising dimensions.
When embryo starts to develop and finally a human baby gets its shape, the first sign of life in the baby is the heartbeat that occurs at very start of development, breathing with every other organ working starts in the later phase. Similarly, death of a person could never be declared until and unless heart stops working, there are other artificial breathing systems which are used to keep the person alive until the last heart beat terminates. I think its because heart does not only gives the nourishment to the body but it is also responsible to connect the soul to the body and to make these two....The One.
So for a pure and beautiful life its necessary that our heart should be very pure, fresh, living and awakened. Any impurity of lust and greed, dishonesty, untruthfulness and arrogance can make it diseased and unhealthy for both body and soul.
I have an idea to protect the heart from these enemies. Let give it to somebody else, Somebody who really deserves it, and feel free of worry of the heart's protection. One who will get your heart and Love inside it, will definitely protect it more than us.
" In the Muslim's heart is the home of Muhammad, Eternity is less than a moment of his time, and receives increase from his essence. He chose the nightly solitude of Mount Hira and yet founded a state and laws and government. When he prayed for Divine help, his sword answered Amen and extirpated the race of kings. With the key of religion he opened the door of this world. In his sight high and low were one. He sat with his slave at one table." [Republic of Rumi]
Do you like my idea?
Heart is the smaller part of our body in comparison to different other parts, but it has some surprising dimensions.
When embryo starts to develop and finally a human baby gets its shape, the first sign of life in the baby is the heartbeat that occurs at very start of development, breathing with every other organ working starts in the later phase. Similarly, death of a person could never be declared until and unless heart stops working, there are other artificial breathing systems which are used to keep the person alive until the last heart beat terminates. I think its because heart does not only gives the nourishment to the body but it is also responsible to connect the soul to the body and to make these two....The One.
So for a pure and beautiful life its necessary that our heart should be very pure, fresh, living and awakened. Any impurity of lust and greed, dishonesty, untruthfulness and arrogance can make it diseased and unhealthy for both body and soul.
I have an idea to protect the heart from these enemies. Let give it to somebody else, Somebody who really deserves it, and feel free of worry of the heart's protection. One who will get your heart and Love inside it, will definitely protect it more than us.
" In the Muslim's heart is the home of Muhammad, Eternity is less than a moment of his time, and receives increase from his essence. He chose the nightly solitude of Mount Hira and yet founded a state and laws and government. When he prayed for Divine help, his sword answered Amen and extirpated the race of kings. With the key of religion he opened the door of this world. In his sight high and low were one. He sat with his slave at one table." [Republic of Rumi]
Do you like my idea?
Friday, May 28, 2010
POST BY RIZWAN MEMON
"I loved my place. I made great friends over there, learned about so many things. Among all other places and homes, it was the only one which gave me a sense of unity and collectivism. The right to say and share anything with my friends was so beautiful that I urged my other friends to come to my home and enjoy lives collectively.... What I really liked about my home was the religion-less boundaries, anyone at anytime, from any religion and belief could come and share his feelings with me and others....
But things have changed now
We all are living in this digital era, in which every person has a virtual home. People live there, enjoy their time, talk with other friends, play games, check about the latest happenings etc. Facebook served its purpose of creating this whole world a single home to connect with everyone without any problems. Now Facebook is a country(homepage) of millions of people (citizens).
From many days, I was thinking about the thing which made Facebook so popular. Collectivism made it popular! Whether you belong to East or West, Asia or America, Islam or Christianity, you can join this ONE home!
Now, when Facebook has started to show disrespect to Islam and Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him), by promoting an event on this huge platform (just imagine a group of people are holding banners and cartoons and propagandizing this "Draw cartoons" thing on streets while YOU look out of your home's window), it has decided to finish itself!
Not even Muslims, but people from other religion and countries are quitting facebook as well and they have decided to celebrate "Quit Facebook Day" on 31st May. Their reasons to quit facebook are different (Releasing user data, unfair trade compliant, difficult profile lock-down method etc), but result and final decision is the same! The counter at "quitfacebookday" site shows 13968 quitters right now, including me as well and I will encourage you to add your vote as well.
And people who think that it's just about one page, users will again start using facebook and blah blah... Please go to wikipedia and search about this "Proper Annual Event of drawing cartoons" So NO we Muslims will face this crappy group of Facebook again and again, every year!
I have left my home! Just like the grand day of Hijrat, when enemies hit Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) to the extreme. So He was ordered to migrate from His hometown to the city of Medina along with the true believers.
Just waiting for my home to open so that I can pack my furniture (pics, videos and other stuff) and lock it down forever (delete my account) with the key (disable account button).
But things have changed now
We all are living in this digital era, in which every person has a virtual home. People live there, enjoy their time, talk with other friends, play games, check about the latest happenings etc. Facebook served its purpose of creating this whole world a single home to connect with everyone without any problems. Now Facebook is a country(homepage) of millions of people (citizens).
From many days, I was thinking about the thing which made Facebook so popular. Collectivism made it popular! Whether you belong to East or West, Asia or America, Islam or Christianity, you can join this ONE home!
Now, when Facebook has started to show disrespect to Islam and Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him), by promoting an event on this huge platform (just imagine a group of people are holding banners and cartoons and propagandizing this "Draw cartoons" thing on streets while YOU look out of your home's window), it has decided to finish itself!
Not even Muslims, but people from other religion and countries are quitting facebook as well and they have decided to celebrate "Quit Facebook Day" on 31st May. Their reasons to quit facebook are different (Releasing user data, unfair trade compliant, difficult profile lock-down method etc), but result and final decision is the same! The counter at "quitfacebookday" site shows 13968 quitters right now, including me as well and I will encourage you to add your vote as well.
And people who think that it's just about one page, users will again start using facebook and blah blah... Please go to wikipedia and search about this "Proper Annual Event of drawing cartoons" So NO we Muslims will face this crappy group of Facebook again and again, every year!
I have left my home! Just like the grand day of Hijrat, when enemies hit Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) to the extreme. So He was ordered to migrate from His hometown to the city of Medina along with the true believers.
Just waiting for my home to open so that I can pack my furniture (pics, videos and other stuff) and lock it down forever (delete my account) with the key (disable account button).
POST BY ADIL MULKI
Our faith can not be complete till such time that Prophet Muhammad (SAW) is dearer to us than our own selves, our parents, our forefathers, our children and all our businesses and possessions. (Please refer to the Appendix at the end of this document if further elaboration of this statement is required.)
1) What has facebook done?
In this world there are people having all kinds of views / opinions and beliefs. Freedom of Expression of opinions is a right that should be enjoyed by all. Freedom of Expression however does not equate to Freedom to Insult. Facebook has crossed this line as it gave freedom to insult Islam and Muslims. Ironically, Facebook claims to have a set of “regulations” which should have stopped the “Everybody Draw …” page. However, Facebook, showing no respect towards Islam and Muslims refrained from banning the page. They even had the audacity to express disappointment upon being banned in Pakistan!
(Please read Section 6 for a more detailed list of Facebook’s offensive actions).
2) What does it mean?
To us as Muslims, the enormity of Facebook’s crime is incapable of being expressed in words. This is the biggest incident of slander against the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him) in the entire history of Islam. As compared to this, the most heinous incidents of the past appear to be dwarfed. Do we remember any other occasion when the whole world was given an open invitation to slander the Prophet, and such deplorable pictures of his, spread out to cover the remotest corners of the world – including our own homes (yes, this time these pictures entered our own homes through the computer screens)?
If, inline with the Quran and Hadiths, our Prophet Muhammad (SAW) is indeed dearer to us than our mothers and fathers, and our children, then, our pain and hurt should be enough to make us focus all our energies, resources and devote our time towards the single goal of countering this Insult.
However, as followers of the Rehmat-ul-lil-Aalameen (SAW), we must adhere to ethics and logic and refrain from any and all kinds of violence.
It should be very clear that:
i) Prophet Muhammad (SAW) has been installed on the exalted rank by none other than Almighty himself and nobody’s cheap efforts could ever even come close to lessen the brightness of that which has been sparkled by the One who has lit up the stars and the entire universe Himself.
ii) Anybody attempting to insult Prophet Muhammad (SAW) will ultimately face the wrath of the Almighty and will end up in insult, the likes of which we probably can not even imagine.
3) Opportunity for All Muslims
For us all, this is a great opportunity to join with Allah’s messenger (SAW) and thus ensure that we are part of the side that will prevail. Who knows if this will ensure that on the Day of Judgment when the eternal fates of each and every soul will be declared, we would have some positive action to base our hopes on.
4) Life in the Cyber zone and the E-Era
Our lives have been transformed over the years from the physical world to the virtual or “E” World. This is part of the on-going evolution of human lifestyle and there is nothing wrong with it by itself.
Many words and phrases used by us in our daily lives have come to represent their E-Era meanings rather than their old-world physical meanings, where they originated from, unless otherwise specified.
In this E-Era, forms of protest and expression of choices should also be in a manner that is abreast with the times. Our joys and smiles have also come to originate from events taking place on the cyber world, and so have our worst pain and grief. Hence, our response to this pain will also be most effective, if registered in a befitting manner.
5) Action Required
When the threat to the Ideology of Islam, the properties of Muslims and even their lives crossed a threshold, a Hijrat (Migration) was carried out from Makkah to Madina. A similar migration was also carried out by people of the Indian Sub-continent towards a homeland where their Ideologies and Faith could be preserved and practiced with ease. The time has come for a Cyber Migration.
For three reasons, this “cyber migration” is required only from Facebook and not from every other website that uploaded offensive material.
Firstly, Facebook played a deliberate, dishonest and hypocritical role in defying its OWN policies in order to support this contest even when the ORIGINATOR of the event had quitted.
Secondly, Facebook is one of the biggest Internet empires today and the mass “migration” of millions of Muslim users at this time can have visible effect on the revenues of this website and thus send a non-violent but stern message to the entire world – maybe what we have failed to do in the real world can be achieved through the virtual corridor!
Thirdly, the problems with Facebook are not only being faced by Muslims alone. It has been declared a hazard to the future of the virtual world even by non-Muslim analysts for entirely scientific reasons that have got nothing to do with Muslim religious feelings. Maybe this can give us opportunities to join hands with those in the West who care for the future of this world.
Facebook has become the “virtual life” of some people who are so addicted to it that leaving it will not be without consequence. Some people are conducting their businesses online through Facebook. Some use it to stay in touch with their loved ones, and many use it to waste time. It is these people for whom quitting Facebook will be most testing… and it is these people for whom Iqbal has written at the end of Jawab-e-Shikwa:
If you are loyal to Muhammad We are yours
This universe is nothing, the Tablet and the Pen[*] are yours
*Lauh-O-Qalam is a combination of “Lauh” (denotes Lauh-i Mahfuz and means preserved tablet) and Qalam means pen. Lauh-o-Qalam exists in the metaphysical world and they are the implements with which the decrees of God are recorded and in which they are preserved. (G. Sabir – Copenhagen )
It is interesting to note that facebook is being likened to a country by the western media. (http://news.yahoo.com/s/time/20100521/us_time/08599199058200)
It is also interesting to note that many international facebook users are planning to quit facebook due to many different reasons, including facebook’s unethical practices and disregard of user privacy. (http://www.quitfacebookday.com/)
The huffingtonpost has used the phrase “mass, coordinated exodus” for this planned quitting of facebook mostly by dissatisfied international users..
(http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/05/15/delete-facebook-account-q_n_576956.html)
This usage is glaringly symbolic. For Muslims this would be the equivalent of a Cyber Hijrat
In the words of Iqbal:
We must not be violent or act uncivilized. We will only use our right of choice and convince others to do the same. It will be our choice to quit and convince others to quit. Let us starve the Facebook by not giving it anymore of our time and private information to feed on and hopefully the giant will come down on its own.
I do not know if we will be able to bring down Facebook by quitting it. But frankly, despite the fact that I would love to see that end being achieved, I do not care much if it is achieved or not. What I do care about is, if in the end, I am asked if I tried to do something or just remained a silent spectator, I could raise my arm with pride and say – I TRIED.
Is Quitting Facebook for us a bigger deal than Migration from Makkah was to the Companions of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) ?
A humble attempt by:
Muhammad Adil Mulki
adil.mulki@gmail.com
May 24, 2010
While all efforts have been made to adopt an approach which would please Allah Almighty and honor His Messenger (SAW), we are only human and ask for Allah’s forgiveness for errors.
Acknowledgements:
This document has borrowed extensively from websites and other reference material. Efforts have been made to quote the source of information contained herein. My sincere apologies if a source has been left out.
Appendix 1
Love for Prophet Muhammad - صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم (S.A.W)
Love for the Prophet Muhammad is a measure of one's iman (faith and inner conviction) and our iman is completed and perfected only when our love for the Prophet exceeds our love for everything else in this world, including our own lives. The Holy Qur'an says:
"The Prophet is preferable for the believers even to their own selves..." (33:6) 6th Verse of Surah Al Ahzab (Surah 33)
This is a definitional sentence which tells us what it takes to be a believer: preferring the Prophet even to one's own life. In confirmation of this the Prophet is reported in Hadith to have said:
"None of you becomes a believer until I am dearer to him than his children, his parents and all mankind." (as reported by Bukhari and Muslim) Some versions add: "his life, his wealth and his family". - Hadith
The best of believers, the suhaba (companions of the Prophet), did show such love for the Prophet, especially the noblest of them. Hadhrat Ali, speaking on behalf of all the community of suhaba in Medina , is reported to have said:
"The Holy Prophet is dearer to us than our wealth, our children, our fathers, our forefathers, our mothers and cool water at the time of severe thirst." – Saying of Hazrat Ali (RA)
Allah also says: "Say: If it be that your fathers, your sons, your brothers, your spouses, or your kindred, the wealth that ye have gained, the commerce in which you fear a decline, or the dwellings in which you delight are dearer to you than Allah or His Messenger, or striving in His cause, then wait until Allah brings about His Decision.” [Sûrah al-Tawbah: 24]
(The above material has been obtained from the sites mentioned below and Quran Software. Some formatting and referencing has been carried out.)
http://www.themodernreligion.com/prophet/prophet_love-shafaat.html
http://discussislam.net/Thread-Love-of-Allah-s-w-t-and-His-Prophet-Muhmmad-s-a-w
http://www.islamonline.net/servlet/Satellite?c=Article_C&cid=1224089103285&pagename=Zone-English-Living_Shariah%2FLSELayout&utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rss
1) What has facebook done?
In this world there are people having all kinds of views / opinions and beliefs. Freedom of Expression of opinions is a right that should be enjoyed by all. Freedom of Expression however does not equate to Freedom to Insult. Facebook has crossed this line as it gave freedom to insult Islam and Muslims. Ironically, Facebook claims to have a set of “regulations” which should have stopped the “Everybody Draw …” page. However, Facebook, showing no respect towards Islam and Muslims refrained from banning the page. They even had the audacity to express disappointment upon being banned in Pakistan!
(Please read Section 6 for a more detailed list of Facebook’s offensive actions).
2) What does it mean?
To us as Muslims, the enormity of Facebook’s crime is incapable of being expressed in words. This is the biggest incident of slander against the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him) in the entire history of Islam. As compared to this, the most heinous incidents of the past appear to be dwarfed. Do we remember any other occasion when the whole world was given an open invitation to slander the Prophet, and such deplorable pictures of his, spread out to cover the remotest corners of the world – including our own homes (yes, this time these pictures entered our own homes through the computer screens)?
If, inline with the Quran and Hadiths, our Prophet Muhammad (SAW) is indeed dearer to us than our mothers and fathers, and our children, then, our pain and hurt should be enough to make us focus all our energies, resources and devote our time towards the single goal of countering this Insult.
However, as followers of the Rehmat-ul-lil-Aalameen (SAW), we must adhere to ethics and logic and refrain from any and all kinds of violence.
It should be very clear that:
i) Prophet Muhammad (SAW) has been installed on the exalted rank by none other than Almighty himself and nobody’s cheap efforts could ever even come close to lessen the brightness of that which has been sparkled by the One who has lit up the stars and the entire universe Himself.
ii) Anybody attempting to insult Prophet Muhammad (SAW) will ultimately face the wrath of the Almighty and will end up in insult, the likes of which we probably can not even imagine.
3) Opportunity for All Muslims
For us all, this is a great opportunity to join with Allah’s messenger (SAW) and thus ensure that we are part of the side that will prevail. Who knows if this will ensure that on the Day of Judgment when the eternal fates of each and every soul will be declared, we would have some positive action to base our hopes on.
4) Life in the Cyber zone and the E-Era
Our lives have been transformed over the years from the physical world to the virtual or “E” World. This is part of the on-going evolution of human lifestyle and there is nothing wrong with it by itself.
Many words and phrases used by us in our daily lives have come to represent their E-Era meanings rather than their old-world physical meanings, where they originated from, unless otherwise specified.
In this E-Era, forms of protest and expression of choices should also be in a manner that is abreast with the times. Our joys and smiles have also come to originate from events taking place on the cyber world, and so have our worst pain and grief. Hence, our response to this pain will also be most effective, if registered in a befitting manner.
5) Action Required
When the threat to the Ideology of Islam, the properties of Muslims and even their lives crossed a threshold, a Hijrat (Migration) was carried out from Makkah to Madina. A similar migration was also carried out by people of the Indian Sub-continent towards a homeland where their Ideologies and Faith could be preserved and practiced with ease. The time has come for a Cyber Migration.
For three reasons, this “cyber migration” is required only from Facebook and not from every other website that uploaded offensive material.
Firstly, Facebook played a deliberate, dishonest and hypocritical role in defying its OWN policies in order to support this contest even when the ORIGINATOR of the event had quitted.
Secondly, Facebook is one of the biggest Internet empires today and the mass “migration” of millions of Muslim users at this time can have visible effect on the revenues of this website and thus send a non-violent but stern message to the entire world – maybe what we have failed to do in the real world can be achieved through the virtual corridor!
Thirdly, the problems with Facebook are not only being faced by Muslims alone. It has been declared a hazard to the future of the virtual world even by non-Muslim analysts for entirely scientific reasons that have got nothing to do with Muslim religious feelings. Maybe this can give us opportunities to join hands with those in the West who care for the future of this world.
Facebook has become the “virtual life” of some people who are so addicted to it that leaving it will not be without consequence. Some people are conducting their businesses online through Facebook. Some use it to stay in touch with their loved ones, and many use it to waste time. It is these people for whom quitting Facebook will be most testing… and it is these people for whom Iqbal has written at the end of Jawab-e-Shikwa:
If you are loyal to Muhammad We are yours
This universe is nothing, the Tablet and the Pen[*] are yours
*Lauh-O-Qalam is a combination of “Lauh” (denotes Lauh-i Mahfuz and means preserved tablet) and Qalam means pen. Lauh-o-Qalam exists in the metaphysical world and they are the implements with which the decrees of God are recorded and in which they are preserved. (G. Sabir – Copenhagen )
It is interesting to note that facebook is being likened to a country by the western media. (http://news.yahoo.com/s/time/20100521/us_time/08599199058200)
It is also interesting to note that many international facebook users are planning to quit facebook due to many different reasons, including facebook’s unethical practices and disregard of user privacy. (http://www.quitfacebookday.com/)
The huffingtonpost has used the phrase “mass, coordinated exodus” for this planned quitting of facebook mostly by dissatisfied international users..
(http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/05/15/delete-facebook-account-q_n_576956.html)
This usage is glaringly symbolic. For Muslims this would be the equivalent of a Cyber Hijrat
In the words of Iqbal:
We must not be violent or act uncivilized. We will only use our right of choice and convince others to do the same. It will be our choice to quit and convince others to quit. Let us starve the Facebook by not giving it anymore of our time and private information to feed on and hopefully the giant will come down on its own.
I do not know if we will be able to bring down Facebook by quitting it. But frankly, despite the fact that I would love to see that end being achieved, I do not care much if it is achieved or not. What I do care about is, if in the end, I am asked if I tried to do something or just remained a silent spectator, I could raise my arm with pride and say – I TRIED.
Is Quitting Facebook for us a bigger deal than Migration from Makkah was to the Companions of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) ?
A humble attempt by:
Muhammad Adil Mulki
adil.mulki@gmail.com
May 24, 2010
While all efforts have been made to adopt an approach which would please Allah Almighty and honor His Messenger (SAW), we are only human and ask for Allah’s forgiveness for errors.
Acknowledgements:
This document has borrowed extensively from websites and other reference material. Efforts have been made to quote the source of information contained herein. My sincere apologies if a source has been left out.
Appendix 1
Love for Prophet Muhammad - صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم (S.A.W)
Love for the Prophet Muhammad is a measure of one's iman (faith and inner conviction) and our iman is completed and perfected only when our love for the Prophet exceeds our love for everything else in this world, including our own lives. The Holy Qur'an says:
"The Prophet is preferable for the believers even to their own selves..." (33:6) 6th Verse of Surah Al Ahzab (Surah 33)
This is a definitional sentence which tells us what it takes to be a believer: preferring the Prophet even to one's own life. In confirmation of this the Prophet is reported in Hadith to have said:
"None of you becomes a believer until I am dearer to him than his children, his parents and all mankind." (as reported by Bukhari and Muslim) Some versions add: "his life, his wealth and his family". - Hadith
The best of believers, the suhaba (companions of the Prophet), did show such love for the Prophet, especially the noblest of them. Hadhrat Ali, speaking on behalf of all the community of suhaba in Medina , is reported to have said:
"The Holy Prophet is dearer to us than our wealth, our children, our fathers, our forefathers, our mothers and cool water at the time of severe thirst." – Saying of Hazrat Ali (RA)
Allah also says: "Say: If it be that your fathers, your sons, your brothers, your spouses, or your kindred, the wealth that ye have gained, the commerce in which you fear a decline, or the dwellings in which you delight are dearer to you than Allah or His Messenger, or striving in His cause, then wait until Allah brings about His Decision.” [Sûrah al-Tawbah: 24]
(The above material has been obtained from the sites mentioned below and Quran Software. Some formatting and referencing has been carried out.)
http://www.themodernreligion.com/prophet/prophet_love-shafaat.html
http://discussislam.net/Thread-Love-of-Allah-s-w-t-and-His-Prophet-Muhmmad-s-a-w
http://www.islamonline.net/servlet/Satellite?c=Article_C&cid=1224089103285&pagename=Zone-English-Living_Shariah%2FLSELayout&utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rss
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
IQBAL & SHAKESPEARE
We have already discussed the alchemy of consensus literature and the constituters of this foundation. William Shakespeare is one of the blossoms of West. Any traditionalist writer or poet who respects the sacred Scriptures and retain the related religious value in hearts of common people through their text/writings, is one who touches the essence of nature.
There is some connection between two; IQBAL & SHAKESPEARE.
Lets discover!
Shakespeare
The flowing river mirrors the red glow of dawn,
The quiet of the evening mirrors the evening song,
The rose‑leaf mirrors spring’s beautiful cheek;
The chamber of the cup mirrors the beauty of the wine;
Beauty mirrors Truth, the heart mirrors Beauty;
The beauty of your speech mirrors the heart of human being.
Life finds perfection in your sky‑soaring thought;
Was your luminous nature the goal of existence?
When the eye wished to see you, and looked,
It saw the sun hidden in its own brilliance.
You were hidden from the eyes of the world,
But with your own eyes you saw the world exposed and bare.
Nature guards its mysteries so jealously,
It will never again create one who knows so many secrets.
(Iqbal’s tribute to Shakespeare, 1916)
Please come!
Resource Person:
Khurram Ali Shafique.
Venue: Teachers’ Development Center, 129-G, P.E.C.H. Society, Block 2, Karachi.
Phone: (021)4392949
Timings (for all workshops): 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm
Contact for further information: Dr. Hena Jawaid
henajawaid000@hotmail.com
Address Path:-
Landmark on the main Khalid Bin Walid Road is PICASSO, a furniture showroom - it is on your left if you are coming from Noorani Kebab House (from where it isn't very far), and on your right if you are coming from Sharifabad side.
Opposite PICASSO, across the main road, is a STREET going inside. Take that street, and TDC is 7th or 8th house on your right.
There is some connection between two; IQBAL & SHAKESPEARE.
Lets discover!
Shakespeare
The flowing river mirrors the red glow of dawn,
The quiet of the evening mirrors the evening song,
The rose‑leaf mirrors spring’s beautiful cheek;
The chamber of the cup mirrors the beauty of the wine;
Beauty mirrors Truth, the heart mirrors Beauty;
The beauty of your speech mirrors the heart of human being.
Life finds perfection in your sky‑soaring thought;
Was your luminous nature the goal of existence?
When the eye wished to see you, and looked,
It saw the sun hidden in its own brilliance.
You were hidden from the eyes of the world,
But with your own eyes you saw the world exposed and bare.
Nature guards its mysteries so jealously,
It will never again create one who knows so many secrets.
(Iqbal’s tribute to Shakespeare, 1916)
Please come!
Resource Person:
Khurram Ali Shafique.
Venue: Teachers’ Development Center, 129-G, P.E.C.H. Society, Block 2, Karachi.
Phone: (021)4392949
Timings (for all workshops): 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm
Contact for further information: Dr. Hena Jawaid
henajawaid000@hotmail.com
Address Path:-
Landmark on the main Khalid Bin Walid Road is PICASSO, a furniture showroom - it is on your left if you are coming from Noorani Kebab House (from where it isn't very far), and on your right if you are coming from Sharifabad side.
Opposite PICASSO, across the main road, is a STREET going inside. Take that street, and TDC is 7th or 8th house on your right.
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Review - Republic of Rumi
Khurram Ali Shafique, author of The Republic of Rumi: A Novel of Reality
We have the books from Allah..we have so many other help...like Prophets and Sufis. But are we interpreting them clearly???
I read once that History is like an ocean in which every fisher caught fishes with his own net....every net is different in its breadth and depth....
And every fisher tries to caught a fish where no other fisher has gone...these fishers are like history writers....who have their own understanding or perception of every happening in the history and when the fisher set his shop on the side of the road....the customers who can be the reader...picked up the piece of fish which they think will amuse them....
In this way...reader...basically is the most ignorant of the actual ocean....
hmmm....but then when Allah granted the Joseph to interpret everything the way they are HE also granted Him wisdom and words and courage to speak up.
As we read that he sent back the people to first clear his position in front of his first master...than he courageously asked the king to grant him all the kingdom....which means that he was confident enough to take care of the kingdom on the basis of his interpretations....wisdom. And thus Joseph managed to come in contact with the common masses.
And nowadays to get in touch with common masses can be bit different.
There were times when people used to inspire by poetry...art and literature...Sufi had his own way to communicate the interpretations and Poets had his own ways....
Nowadays...common masses are inspired by media...which can be TV or Internet....
Can we think that someday...we will find a courageous person who will take all the masses attention by his/her website....we will visit that website everyday and will nod our heads in yes to be completely agreed with his sayings...he, the "webmaster" would nurture our souls and will interpret the actual religion or faith to us?
Or...some newscaster will do the same...?
Anyways...it sure give me so many questions and I am still in position of raising more...
I am so glad and happy to attend your workshop today and I must say thanks to you to give us the opportunity to open our brain to the reality.
I hope you best of luck with all your teaching and spreading the truth."
-------------------------------Thinking
"The structure of the Garden of poetry of Iqbal is based on unity; therefore it remains non-contradictory in the whole journey of reader throughout the garden.
Joseph is the experience that we are getting at each and every moment we spent in the garden, left all information outside, so the purpose of journey through the garden seems to feel the importance of Joseph.
Since Garden has its own parameters that are different from outside world, so it might be possible that this is a metaphor used for inside world of humans. Since our inside world also has its own parameters, we also have our inner experience (that can be called as our Joseph) if only we could search Joseph inside..........and get out him from the well."
-----------------------------Urooj Malik
"I have gone through several journeys in my life of different kinds till now. However the journey through this Republic was in search of My Self. How surprised would you be if you come to know that there is a Republic where you are free in your choices? And the consequence of your choice at every stage throughout the journey enables you to reveal the secrets of yourself depending upon the choice you make? If, somehow, you feel that you have lost your path to continue your journey, the sign boards [in the form of people, characters, and wisdoms] help you to find your way. Once the secrets are revealed, you complete the journey of this Republic.
You are the Republic and the Republic is you!"
------------------------------------Komal Khan
":It was a very nice experience reading and understanding this book... One thing I would like to share is that this book had some of the things which I already knew or saw! How is it possible that my pray and Goethe's character's demand (about the point where there is only peace in this world) match? Although it's not in the book but we discussed it during workshops...
Likewise, it talks about time, history, stories, events, dreams and Joseph.
Studying about time has always interested me.... the book helped me to look at time with a different angle... past, present, future all with each other. It gives us different lens to look at history as well...
I always understood history as politics, so I always said it to myself "I m very bad at history. I hate it" but that's not the case. Everything we read and remember and look ahead is history.
Stories, events and dreams! What a unique combination this book gives us to learn! I still remember Sir Khurram saying (about Joseph's story) that Joseph saw dream at that time, which became an event of history (as it's in Quran), and now it has become a story for us. Applying this to current setup gives us new way to think about time... Dreams! I think that some dreams are destined to become events and then stories. That's what I've learned...
Joseph... I must say Joseph was the one who insisted me to enter in the garden. I remember the conversation I had with myself after knowing that Iqbal's poetry talks about Joseph as well.
Pretty long review but this book deserves it ."
---------------------------------Muhammad Rizwan Memon
"RR corresponds to a hetrocosmic nonlinear, antilogical construction of reality mediated through an exceedingly intricate and translucent text. The representation of reality is problematized by the strategic deployment of multiple narratives and highly coded forms of representation culled from a vast repertoire of sources and discourses as numerous as the Quran, Rumi, and Iqbal. The imagery and symbolism imbedded in the text appear to be fragmented, simulating a nonsymmetrical organic, unity.
The quintessence of the text resides in the power of conventions operating within it and must be appreciated in all their temporal and mystical particulars which are by no means a simple undertaking for both the writer of this text and the reader. The unusual predicament of a scholar/historian attempting a novel, a genre, which has traditionally blurred fact and fiction to present certain realism, is not without its inherent contradictions. Concurrently history writing itself involves the creation of facts out of seemingly unrelated events. The uneasy concurrence of the historical fact with fictive poetic intuition does call into question the nature of this synthesis/ alliance.
What are the normative features, ethical preferences and poetic license that the writer sanctions and the outcomes of this operation? The pragmatism demonstrated by the author in the taxonomy of numbers, spiritual realities is typically mimetic and redolent of sacred geometry. Occasionally the matrimony between matter [quantity] and spirit [quality] becomes pedantic, restricting the flight of intuition toward sensuous realms that transcend discursive modalities, language, and number. Notwithstanding the erudition of the author the structural underpinnings of the narrative become almost promethean, at times, piling the subtle layers of consciousness on a concrete grid.
The opening Chapters are prefaced on the tacit compliance of the reader to defer all previous notions about the nature of knowledge, cognitive processes and the recognition of phenomena contingent upon cause and effect. The exit and entry, inside/outside, within/without is clearly mapped indicating the changing spiritual terrain. The suspension of discursive knowledge coincides with inscribing and subverting of the conventions of traditional narrative. The greater narrative is punctuated by highly charged simultaneous narratives that remain autonomous and self contained almost passive and impervious but not opaque in their juxtaposition. For instance they do not overlap, sear, spill out or create flux in this complexity. They remain intact, mounting towards a crescendo that resounds with a unitary answer.
The intellectual abstinence from skepticism and duality as the primary condition for this state of knowledge denaturalizes the dominant notions premised by the modern cultural and political enterprise. An alternative strategy is prescribed that reconciles the soul of the state with the soul of the individual eliminating discord and supplementing it with intimacy. The most rudimentary form of self governance is governing oneself which is the matrix from which spring forth dominant political ideas, institutions, statecraft, education and all cultural expressions. The author lucidly makes visible Iqbal’s unequivocal negotiation of the tremulous region between religion and modernity. Moral and ethical judgment can be brought to bear upon all social transactions without succumbing to the dichotomies that arise from theories based upon human conflict.
Towards the end of the narrative the author inadvertently appropriates a significant utterance from the preface of the Reconstruction of Religious thought in Islam.
‘A living experience of the kind of biological unity…. requires today a method today that is physiologically less violent and psychologically more suitable to a concrete type of mind.’
This incautious intercession leads to a precarious closure.
The avowal of a concrete type of mind as a [fixed] typology.
The resurrection of the concrete type of mind towards the end of the narrative despite the suspension of preconceived knowledge upon entering the garden.
The concrete type of mind is not denaturalized and all assumptions associated with it are sustained and hence the prescription.
The concrete type of mind I believe is not an intrinsic, essential, monolithic category/substance/phenomenon but the effect of a particular state of knowledge upon the human mind.
The endorsement for a physiologically less violent method [religious method] is arbitrary [value judgment].
Less violent, sanctions some degree of violence as permissible/legitimate.
The relation between religious method and violence is unclear and dangerous.
The espousal of love as the dynamic principal in the text is obliterated in the wake of this disclosure.
How is violence defined in this context? For instance hal, riqat , sema, kalam, wajd, kashaf ……Wahi
Does the principal of Noncontradiction apply to states of passion and states of violence? What is their respective etymology?
The nature and effect of religious experience cannot be initiated by man [who is liberated in the wake of such experience] Religious experience is deeply intimate and perfects the soul. It is not mans place to determine religious method now or at any moment in the future. Hence, determining the suitability of the method for any type of mind is the privilege of the One who has no equal. "
-------------------------------Sumaya Durrani
"Allama Iqbal and Mevlana Rumi were not only two mortal individuals who are part of history now, but they were also two very successful exponents of an Ideology that is alive and kicking and shall only increase in fervor as we near the end-game. “The Republic of Rumi” and the discussion sessions have provided me new insights into everyday issues and helped to resolve some conceptual conflicts that I had gathered over the years. The fact that the discussion sessions do not remain confined to Iqbal and Rumi, but permeate through to vast ranging everyday topics, such as religion, pop culture, cinema and current politics, is what makes them unique and captivating. The views, opinions and thoughts shared, have contributed to reshape my personality at some level for which I remain grateful to Khurram sahib, Abbas sahib and all the participants who have contributed generously. I only hope and pray that the connection rekindled with Iqbal and Rumi and their Ideology – nay, our Ideology, only grows stronger in all the participants and the society at large, and manifests itself as concrete, tangible change in the hearts, minds and lives of all.
What began as an experiment has now culminated as a lifestyle but this metamorphosis needs a congenial habitat to nurture it and ensure that it is self-sustaining. I wish and hope that the interactions continue indefinitely even if through modern-day communications tools."
- ---------------------------------------------- Adil Mulki
"RR is exactly a journey to evade all pre-conceived notions which was the baseline setting in our mind upon which we evaluate and order /classify priorities of life.
This reading was especially helpful in making us to orient ourselves and modify our scales of value. Not only in theme of literature but also in other domains of life.
The best thing in all these discussions and sittings is One thing and that was (I think) a conclusion of our all sittings, gatherings and meetings. That is “UNITY”. The harmony in all moves of Nation’s life is a sole remedy of all ills.
Not only this but this Saturday, when we completed our journey of RR, we came through the same conclusion.
“One of the profoundest verses in the Holy Quran teaches us that the birth and rebirth of the whole of humanity is like the birth and rebirth of a single individual. Why cannot you who, as a people, can well claim to be the first practical exponents of this superb conception of humanity, live and move and have your being as a single individual?”
ALLAHABAD ADDRESS -1930
The Garden of RR moves around this focal point through out its course. "
------------------------------------------------Hena Jawaid
We have the books from Allah..we have so many other help...like Prophets and Sufis. But are we interpreting them clearly???
I read once that History is like an ocean in which every fisher caught fishes with his own net....every net is different in its breadth and depth....
And every fisher tries to caught a fish where no other fisher has gone...these fishers are like history writers....who have their own understanding or perception of every happening in the history and when the fisher set his shop on the side of the road....the customers who can be the reader...picked up the piece of fish which they think will amuse them....
In this way...reader...basically is the most ignorant of the actual ocean....
hmmm....but then when Allah granted the Joseph to interpret everything the way they are HE also granted Him wisdom and words and courage to speak up.
As we read that he sent back the people to first clear his position in front of his first master...than he courageously asked the king to grant him all the kingdom....which means that he was confident enough to take care of the kingdom on the basis of his interpretations....wisdom. And thus Joseph managed to come in contact with the common masses.
And nowadays to get in touch with common masses can be bit different.
There were times when people used to inspire by poetry...art and literature...Sufi had his own way to communicate the interpretations and Poets had his own ways....
Nowadays...common masses are inspired by media...which can be TV or Internet....
Can we think that someday...we will find a courageous person who will take all the masses attention by his/her website....we will visit that website everyday and will nod our heads in yes to be completely agreed with his sayings...he, the "webmaster" would nurture our souls and will interpret the actual religion or faith to us?
Or...some newscaster will do the same...?
Anyways...it sure give me so many questions and I am still in position of raising more...
I am so glad and happy to attend your workshop today and I must say thanks to you to give us the opportunity to open our brain to the reality.
I hope you best of luck with all your teaching and spreading the truth."
-------------------------------Thinking
"The structure of the Garden of poetry of Iqbal is based on unity; therefore it remains non-contradictory in the whole journey of reader throughout the garden.
Joseph is the experience that we are getting at each and every moment we spent in the garden, left all information outside, so the purpose of journey through the garden seems to feel the importance of Joseph.
Since Garden has its own parameters that are different from outside world, so it might be possible that this is a metaphor used for inside world of humans. Since our inside world also has its own parameters, we also have our inner experience (that can be called as our Joseph) if only we could search Joseph inside..........and get out him from the well."
-----------------------------Urooj Malik
"I have gone through several journeys in my life of different kinds till now. However the journey through this Republic was in search of My Self. How surprised would you be if you come to know that there is a Republic where you are free in your choices? And the consequence of your choice at every stage throughout the journey enables you to reveal the secrets of yourself depending upon the choice you make? If, somehow, you feel that you have lost your path to continue your journey, the sign boards [in the form of people, characters, and wisdoms] help you to find your way. Once the secrets are revealed, you complete the journey of this Republic.
You are the Republic and the Republic is you!"
------------------------------------Komal Khan
":It was a very nice experience reading and understanding this book... One thing I would like to share is that this book had some of the things which I already knew or saw! How is it possible that my pray and Goethe's character's demand (about the point where there is only peace in this world) match? Although it's not in the book but we discussed it during workshops...
Likewise, it talks about time, history, stories, events, dreams and Joseph.
Studying about time has always interested me.... the book helped me to look at time with a different angle... past, present, future all with each other. It gives us different lens to look at history as well...
I always understood history as politics, so I always said it to myself "I m very bad at history. I hate it" but that's not the case. Everything we read and remember and look ahead is history.
Stories, events and dreams! What a unique combination this book gives us to learn! I still remember Sir Khurram saying (about Joseph's story) that Joseph saw dream at that time, which became an event of history (as it's in Quran), and now it has become a story for us. Applying this to current setup gives us new way to think about time... Dreams! I think that some dreams are destined to become events and then stories. That's what I've learned...
Joseph... I must say Joseph was the one who insisted me to enter in the garden. I remember the conversation I had with myself after knowing that Iqbal's poetry talks about Joseph as well.
Pretty long review but this book deserves it ."
---------------------------------Muhammad Rizwan Memon
"RR corresponds to a hetrocosmic nonlinear, antilogical construction of reality mediated through an exceedingly intricate and translucent text. The representation of reality is problematized by the strategic deployment of multiple narratives and highly coded forms of representation culled from a vast repertoire of sources and discourses as numerous as the Quran, Rumi, and Iqbal. The imagery and symbolism imbedded in the text appear to be fragmented, simulating a nonsymmetrical organic, unity.
The quintessence of the text resides in the power of conventions operating within it and must be appreciated in all their temporal and mystical particulars which are by no means a simple undertaking for both the writer of this text and the reader. The unusual predicament of a scholar/historian attempting a novel, a genre, which has traditionally blurred fact and fiction to present certain realism, is not without its inherent contradictions. Concurrently history writing itself involves the creation of facts out of seemingly unrelated events. The uneasy concurrence of the historical fact with fictive poetic intuition does call into question the nature of this synthesis/ alliance.
What are the normative features, ethical preferences and poetic license that the writer sanctions and the outcomes of this operation? The pragmatism demonstrated by the author in the taxonomy of numbers, spiritual realities is typically mimetic and redolent of sacred geometry. Occasionally the matrimony between matter [quantity] and spirit [quality] becomes pedantic, restricting the flight of intuition toward sensuous realms that transcend discursive modalities, language, and number. Notwithstanding the erudition of the author the structural underpinnings of the narrative become almost promethean, at times, piling the subtle layers of consciousness on a concrete grid.
The opening Chapters are prefaced on the tacit compliance of the reader to defer all previous notions about the nature of knowledge, cognitive processes and the recognition of phenomena contingent upon cause and effect. The exit and entry, inside/outside, within/without is clearly mapped indicating the changing spiritual terrain. The suspension of discursive knowledge coincides with inscribing and subverting of the conventions of traditional narrative. The greater narrative is punctuated by highly charged simultaneous narratives that remain autonomous and self contained almost passive and impervious but not opaque in their juxtaposition. For instance they do not overlap, sear, spill out or create flux in this complexity. They remain intact, mounting towards a crescendo that resounds with a unitary answer.
The intellectual abstinence from skepticism and duality as the primary condition for this state of knowledge denaturalizes the dominant notions premised by the modern cultural and political enterprise. An alternative strategy is prescribed that reconciles the soul of the state with the soul of the individual eliminating discord and supplementing it with intimacy. The most rudimentary form of self governance is governing oneself which is the matrix from which spring forth dominant political ideas, institutions, statecraft, education and all cultural expressions. The author lucidly makes visible Iqbal’s unequivocal negotiation of the tremulous region between religion and modernity. Moral and ethical judgment can be brought to bear upon all social transactions without succumbing to the dichotomies that arise from theories based upon human conflict.
Towards the end of the narrative the author inadvertently appropriates a significant utterance from the preface of the Reconstruction of Religious thought in Islam.
‘A living experience of the kind of biological unity…. requires today a method today that is physiologically less violent and psychologically more suitable to a concrete type of mind.’
This incautious intercession leads to a precarious closure.
The avowal of a concrete type of mind as a [fixed] typology.
The resurrection of the concrete type of mind towards the end of the narrative despite the suspension of preconceived knowledge upon entering the garden.
The concrete type of mind is not denaturalized and all assumptions associated with it are sustained and hence the prescription.
The concrete type of mind I believe is not an intrinsic, essential, monolithic category/substance/phenomenon but the effect of a particular state of knowledge upon the human mind.
The endorsement for a physiologically less violent method [religious method] is arbitrary [value judgment].
Less violent, sanctions some degree of violence as permissible/legitimate.
The relation between religious method and violence is unclear and dangerous.
The espousal of love as the dynamic principal in the text is obliterated in the wake of this disclosure.
How is violence defined in this context? For instance hal, riqat , sema, kalam, wajd, kashaf ……Wahi
Does the principal of Noncontradiction apply to states of passion and states of violence? What is their respective etymology?
The nature and effect of religious experience cannot be initiated by man [who is liberated in the wake of such experience] Religious experience is deeply intimate and perfects the soul. It is not mans place to determine religious method now or at any moment in the future. Hence, determining the suitability of the method for any type of mind is the privilege of the One who has no equal. "
-------------------------------Sumaya Durrani
"Allama Iqbal and Mevlana Rumi were not only two mortal individuals who are part of history now, but they were also two very successful exponents of an Ideology that is alive and kicking and shall only increase in fervor as we near the end-game. “The Republic of Rumi” and the discussion sessions have provided me new insights into everyday issues and helped to resolve some conceptual conflicts that I had gathered over the years. The fact that the discussion sessions do not remain confined to Iqbal and Rumi, but permeate through to vast ranging everyday topics, such as religion, pop culture, cinema and current politics, is what makes them unique and captivating. The views, opinions and thoughts shared, have contributed to reshape my personality at some level for which I remain grateful to Khurram sahib, Abbas sahib and all the participants who have contributed generously. I only hope and pray that the connection rekindled with Iqbal and Rumi and their Ideology – nay, our Ideology, only grows stronger in all the participants and the society at large, and manifests itself as concrete, tangible change in the hearts, minds and lives of all.
What began as an experiment has now culminated as a lifestyle but this metamorphosis needs a congenial habitat to nurture it and ensure that it is self-sustaining. I wish and hope that the interactions continue indefinitely even if through modern-day communications tools."
- ---------------------------------------------- Adil Mulki
"RR is exactly a journey to evade all pre-conceived notions which was the baseline setting in our mind upon which we evaluate and order /classify priorities of life.
This reading was especially helpful in making us to orient ourselves and modify our scales of value. Not only in theme of literature but also in other domains of life.
The best thing in all these discussions and sittings is One thing and that was (I think) a conclusion of our all sittings, gatherings and meetings. That is “UNITY”. The harmony in all moves of Nation’s life is a sole remedy of all ills.
Not only this but this Saturday, when we completed our journey of RR, we came through the same conclusion.
“One of the profoundest verses in the Holy Quran teaches us that the birth and rebirth of the whole of humanity is like the birth and rebirth of a single individual. Why cannot you who, as a people, can well claim to be the first practical exponents of this superb conception of humanity, live and move and have your being as a single individual?”
ALLAHABAD ADDRESS -1930
The Garden of RR moves around this focal point through out its course. "
------------------------------------------------Hena Jawaid
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Javidnama Online
Javidnama (1932) was described by Iqbal as his life's work. Unlike other works of Iqbal the entire volume comprises of a single story. It is a journey through the spiritual universe in search of immortality under the guidance of Mawlana Rumi. It is arguably the only specimen of higher literature from the twentieth century that attempts to represent diverse religions on their own terms.
The book was specially intended for the youth but since it was in Persian, it has gone unnoticed by most people in Pakistan, especially the youth. Iqbal Academy Pakistan brought out abridged translations in English and Urdu with colorful illustrations a few years ago. With support from the Academy, the English version has now been made available online with additional features, such as embedded videos of Iqbal's poetry (videos of well-known Urdu poems have also been selected to go together with similar themes in Javidnama). It can be visited on The Republic of Rumi Website, the official homepage of Khurram Ali Shafique.
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