Conversation about Ahmadiyya Muslims

Thank God we live in America under God where there is no compulsion on any one to believe or not believe. 

 Aren’t you glad, being a non-Hijabi woman you don’t live in Afghanistan or Saudi Arabia? Aren’t you thrilled that you don’t live as a Sufi in Iran or Saudi Arabia? Aren’t you happy that you don’t live as a Sunni in Syria, Iran or Iraq? Aren’t you glad you don’t live in Pakistan, Bahrain and Indonesia as an Ahmadi or Shia? فَبِأَيِّ آلَاء رَبِّكُمَا تُكَذِّبَانِ (55:16) 

 
Is there a self-proclaimed Muslim nation where any kind of Muslim can freely practice his or her religion without hassles?

America is one of the few places on the earth that you can practice your religion freely per the Quraan and not per bigots. لاَ إِكْرَاهَ فِي الدِّينِ 

Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) brought one religion, the religion that will bring about social justice and peace to mankind.  His universal religion brings harmony within an individual and what surrounds him or her. He understood human nature and paved the way for Muslims in the future to figure out how to co-exist with their differences.  He said his Ummah will eventually have 72 (73) different versions and each one must rush to do good things ( he did not say, annihilate the other) and one among them will receive bountiful goodness for being exceptionally good. All will receive their recompense from the creator.

Each group is bent on converting and convincing the other. Sunnis are arrogant that God has a special pact with them, while the Shias believe the same and so do the Ahmadiyya Muslims.  God does not make deals with any one behind each others back, Muslim or not. You do the good things, bring peace to his creation and earn his grace.

None of us was assigned to guard the religion or Quraan; he said he will protect it himself. We have to trust God without any doubts.  

 

As long as each one of the 72 tribes is doing good things for humanity, we need to appreciate them. After all no one is responsible for your and my actions but ourselves.

I have known the Ahmadiyya community for a long time now; they share what they know, but have never asked me to subscribe to their belief in Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmed as Prophet or the Messiah. If they do, I would respectfully say that I am content with my belief as they are with their belief and let’s together do good to humanity with our differences. Let’s have a strong faith in whatever we believe and not fear discussing or talking will drain off my faith. Who needs a faith like that? If someone becomes Sunni, Shia or Ahmadiyya, let them? You are not responsible to any one, not one soul on the Day of Judgment.  So why belligerence and ill-will?  It is not good for us, this is the Jihad Prophet (pbuh) called on us. 

Islam is not defined by denying others their belief, forcing others to your way… The Sunnis can survive without manufacturing an enemy that is what the Neocons do; make enemies out of Muslims who are not. Are we like them?
 

Jazak Allah Khair

Mike Ghouse

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Dear all,

It is very imoprtant not to misunderstand any corruption done in our religion by certian groups and giving the impression that there is no differnace between Ahamdis and othe Muslims places of worship and iftar. These are the tectics to get Muslims involved and then convert to Ahmadis. if they are the same as other muslims are then why do we have to convert to Ahamdiat? Once you go deep inside then you will know that Ahmadis are very different and corrupting our religion by changing the meaning of Quran and not Accepting Prophet ( PBUH) as the last prophet and instead beleiving that Mirza is the continuation of Prophet hood. This is a very long discussion, i have attached the presentation by which everyone can understand that how they have tried their best to change the meaning of Quran to their religion. No one has interprated Quran in 1400 years execept this group and list of other things is long. i am ready to debate any Ahamdi regarding the finality of Prophet ( PBUH) this is the basis of our relgion and Aqeeda. Without beleving in finaltiy of Prophet Mohammad ( PBUH) we are not following Quran and Allah. Allah says very clear in Quran about the Finality of Prophet Mohammad ( PBUH) any group try to chnage is not Muslim or the follower of Islam.

Nasrullah khan

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Dear Intisar

Thanks for pointing the error.  First of all it was my mistake that I did not point out the information that was contrary to Brother Qureshi’s information on Ahmadiyya and Bahai.

AHAMDIYYA CLARIFICATIONS

Brother Qureshi wrote, “But again they have added many new elements such as the name of their prophet into Kalima (declaration of belief in God and Prophet Muhammad) and also in Azan (beckoning Muslims to come for prayers). The Ahmadis are officially declared as the infidels, apostates or heretic in Pakistan.”

I have not heard a different Azaan or different Kalima than

"La Ilaha Illal lah Muhammadur Rasool Allah.” I have been to two different Ahamdiyya Mosques, one is Dallas Area and the other in Houston, I have prayed in their mosques, had Iftaar with them, have spoken many times and have also spoken at the their Annual convention – I have a copy of their Quraan and some great books they have written. 

In their two day convention that I attended,  so many times they recited Takbir, Shahadah and Darood and of course Mirza Ghulam Ahmed's name, just as they do in Shia Mosques - Nara-e-Hydari - Ya Ali. I have taken pictures of their mosques where you see inscribed on their walls, "La Ilaha Illal lahu Muhammadur Rasool Allah."

In the early 70’s on the walls of one Ahmadiyya Mosque in Africa, the first Meem of Mohammad in the Kalima was discolored and made it appear like it was Ahamdur Rasoola Allah. All I have seen is on the walls of the Ahmadiyya Mosques I have been to.

Brother Qureshi has to explain his experience on Kalima and Adan

As a side note, nothing to with the topic above but related to it. I have written over 15 articles on Ahmadiyya (of  750+ Articles on Islam) in the last few years and as a “Sunni” Muslim it amazes me that how many of us go by hearsay and make blind statements. The politically brainwashed hatred towards Ahmadiyya has blinded so many Muslims to jump to conclusions without verifying.  I am not defending Ahmadiyya here, I am defending what Allah and his Prophet has told us to do – to verify before we judge other people, besides that, no one has a right to judge the faith of other person other than Allah. Don’t let your bias towards others to make you unjust.

I was in Austin several weeks ago, one of my Ismaili friends was telling me that he went to the Mosque for Friday prayers, and the Imam was belligerent towards him for dropping the hands during the Iqama position, which most Shia Muslims do. Insha Allah, I will go talk to the imam and ask him what Allah meant, “the best among you are the ones who learn about each other”   If he is not aware of how Muslims prays in different Mosques. I pray that he treats the guests at the mosque in a dignified way, if he were to be an Imam. In one line (saf) people hold their hands on naval level, above stomach or even on the chest while other practices exist. Unless we speak up, things will not change.  Do we want our Imams to be respectful of other?  

BAHAI FAITH CLARIFICATIONS

Bahaulla and his predecessor the Bab did not claim to be the Messiah, they just claimed to be a prophet in a series of prophets that have brought in the message of goodness. Furthermore, Bahai faith is not an off-shoot of Islam; it is a religion on its own. We cannot say Islam is an offshoot of Judaism for the similarities it has in it. I have literally taught Bahai faith for over two years on the Radio Show and in my workshops, along with 13 other religions. I have been to Mormon Church/Congregation several times in Saudi Arabia as well as here in Dallas

 Mike Ghouse

--- In WorldMuslimCongress@yahoogroups.com, "Intisar" wrote:

> Dear Mike Sahib:

> I note with great interest the following from Mr. Saeed Qureshi writings: “In a way the founder of Ahmadiat religion made two claims: one that he was Prophet Mohammad reincarnate (shadow) and secondly that he was the resurrected Jesus Christ or the promised Messiah. > Ahmadis mostly retain the Islamic elements of faith in that they pray five times a day, go for pilgrimage, fast for full month etc. But again they have added many new elements such as the name of their prophet into Kalima (declaration of belief in God and Prophet Muhammad) and also in Azan (beckoning Muslims to come for prayers).”

> Mike: You had an opportunity to break bread during Ramadaan with this group (the Ahmadiyya) and have worshipped with them in their mosque. I am curious if you noticed or observed first hand any “new elements” added into Kalima by this group and also added in Azan? Has anyone on this forum firsthand made such observations?

> Intisar

# # #

> Dear Mike Sahib,

> Thank you for your valuable input.With your permission I shall use this in my next article on multiplicity of faiths, a diversity that looks repugnant but essentially is good.

> Saeed Qureshi

Muslims condemn Vandalism at Toronto Jewish School

The World Muslim Congress Condemns Vandalism at Toronto Jewish School

Dallas, Texas – August 5th, 2011 - The World Muslim Congress condemns the  vandalism of the Robbins Hebrew Academy which is attached to the Beth Tikvah synagogue in Toronto and calls on police to swiftly bring the perpetrators to justice. According to a report, vandals spray-painted a swastika and the words “Islam will rule.”

The world Muslim congress endorses the following press release by CAIR Canada. Much of the world is torn apart due to a few rogues among us, Mike Ghouse, President of the World Muslim congress adds, "No Canadian or American has to live in disgusting harassment by other. I urge the Canadian government to find the miscreants and punish them to the maximum punishment available under the Canadian Law.

And I urge the Muslims around the world to condemn these men for tarnishing the name of Islam, no one gave them the permission to do that and Islam clearly forbids any denigration of other faiths.

I urge the Jewish community to condemn the bad guys and not their families, ethnicities and religion. We need justice and it can be achieved only by blaming the individuals and not the religion.

Quraan, 49:11 - “O you who believe, no people shall ridicule other people, for they may be better than they. Nor shall any women ridicule other women, for they may be better than they. Nor shall you mock one another, or make fun of your names. Evil indeed is the reversion to wickedness after attaining faith. Anyone who does not repent after this, is the transgressors.”

Quraan, 22:34 - For each congregation we have decreed rites whereby they commemorate the name of GOD for providing them with the livestock. Your god is one and the same god; you shall all submit to Him. Give good news to the obedient.

Mike Ghouse, President
 World Muslim Congress
www.WorldMuslimcongress.org
www.MikeGhouse.net

(214) 325-1916

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CAIR-CAN Condemns Vandalism at Toronto Jewish School

- For immediate release -

(Ottawa, Canada – August 5th, 2011) - The Canadian Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-CAN) today condemned the recent vandalism of the Robbins Hebrew Academy which is attached to the Beth Tikvah synagogue in Toronto and calls on police to swiftly bring the perpetrators to justice. According to a report, vandals spray-painted a swastika and the words “Islam will rule.”

“CAIR-CAN stands firmly with all Canadians in denouncing this act of hate and intimidation. We wish to unequivocally voice our support for all victims of such intolerant and divisive acts. It is clear that the individual(s) responsible are deeply ignorant of the basic tenets of mercy, understanding and compassion inherent in the Abrahamic faith traditions."

“In January of this year-CAN issued a Statement on the Sanctity of Sacred Spaces which complements our earlier Statement on the Sanctity of Sacred Texts. The latter was released in September 2010 as a response to the proposed Qur’an burning in Florida,” said Ihsaan Gardee, CAIR-CAN Executive Director.

“CAIR-CAN urges local politicians and security officials in Toronto, as well as provincial and federal governments, to work together to continue to relentlessly combat all forms of racism including anti-Semitism and Islamophobia. We call on the authorities to prosecute the perpetrators of these acts to the fullest extent of the law to send a strong message against hate crimes and intolerance.”

“We also urge the synagogue and community leaders to remain vigilant and to immediately report suspicious behaviour to the proper authorities in order to establish a clear record of such incidents.”

CAIR-CAN is a national, non-profit, grassroots organization striving to be a leading voice that enriches Canadian society through Muslim civic engagement and the promotion of human rights.

CONTACT: Ihsaan Gardee, CAIR-CAN Executive Director, 613.254.9704; 613.853.4111

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Day 1 of Ramadan 2011

Ramadan MubarakMonday, August 1, 2011 | Ramadan 1, 1432
Sahri - Pre-Dawn meal before early morning prayer (fajr).
Iftaar - Sunset Meal as a conclusion of the fast.

Sawm - fasting from surise to sunset - No food, no water, no nothing and no intake of any food or water. More critically it is a practice to abstain from ill-will, malice, anger, temptations and human desires. Don't hear, see, speak or act less than goodness.

Rituals - There are several variations of the terms, and rituals vary from place to place. Whole family gets up early around 4:00 AM and together cook extensive meals for Sahri /Suhoor and some just pre-cook earlier night and choose to eat on time. The Iftaar is done elaborately at mosques, homes or other gatherins places where friends from different faiths are invited to break bread and nurture goodwill.

Purpose of this site: To share diverse experience of Ramadan with our friends and families Muslims and others.

......................................... ...

PERSONAL EXPERIENCESahri - Bagel Sandwich
Iftaar - Grilled Fish

Alhamdu Lillah, (Praise the Lord) today is the first day of fasting in the month of Ramadan 2011. It's Monday, Yasmeen my wife, dropped me off early in the morning at Louisville Airport, and on the way we grabbed a Bagel sandwich from McDonald's for Sahri aka suhoor (early morning meal). I reached Dallas at 8:00 AM

Theoretically Ramadan should commence on the same day for all Muslims, but it seldom happens. It is the same moon that every one follows, but sighting technicalities makes it different for different groups, usually a day or two apart. Most Muslims wish it were on the same day. I suggest that we learn to appreciate that wish, but ask people to resist the temptation to think anything less of others who begin a day earlier or later. The article “Politics of Ramadan” is about to be published, God willing I will share that on this blog. Ramadan is about humility.

For Iftaar (meal to break the fast) I went to Richardson Mosque, the oldest Mosque in Dallas built in the mid eighties. I was early and went straight to see Imam Dr. Yusuf Zia Kavakci (links below) in his chambers. He is such a delight to talk with and he has more than once said that he finds that he could talk with me about anything comfortably.


Imam Dr. Yusuf Zia Kavakci has been recognized as one of the 500 influential Muslim leaders in the world. He is a lawyer, a scholar of Islam and an Imam. He has now established an institution with his name to impart education to the youth born and raised here in the D/FW Metroplex. The future American religious scholars will be influenced by his wisdom and he has both male and females students learning to be the future leaders. One of them is Rashad Hassan, US Ambassador to OIC, Organization of Islamic countries. 

We talked about the Sharia conference briefly and the need for Muslims to have a plan, rather than react to situations. The situation in Murphree, Terry Jones and other topics and ended up talking the Chapter I am writing on Muslim Agenda which puts together a blue print for Muslims to define where we need to be twenty years from now and how we are going to get there. The need to become participants and contributors towards the safety, security and prosperity of America is crux of the Agenda. He was enthused about the plan and mentioned about the Late Dr. Dilnawaz Siddiqui who was planning on writing one. The phrase Insha Allah jumped quickly and repeatedly out of my mouth. I panicked.

Well, he and I shared his fruit plate and yogurt for breaking the fast. I enjoyed it very much. He is a great host!

Being the work day, there were about 150 people at the congregational evening (Maghrib) prayers which he led.

After the prayers I ate my meal in the car which I had picked up from Silver Spoon Restaurant I used to frequent some 15 years ago. Waqar and Ursula have run that operation for over 20 years and I enjoy their home cooked meals, listened to NPR while I enjoyed the curried grilled fish.

Mike Ghouse is a speaker, writer and a thinker nurturing the pluralistic values of Islam. More at: http://www.mikeghouse.net/MuslimSpeaker.MikeGhouse.asp

* * I did not realize that I have written at least 7 articles about him.

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Honoring Imam Dr. Yusuf Zia Kavakci today http://wisdomofreligion.blogspot.com/2010/04/honoring-imam-dr-yusuf-zia-kavakci.html

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Article dedicated to Imam Dr. Yusuf Zia Kavakci

http://worldmuslimcongress.blogspot.com/2010/04/there-is-only-one-islam.html
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Can Muslim pray in Cordoba Masjid?
http://worldmuslimcongress.blogspot.com/2007/01/can-muslims-pray-in-cordoba-masjid.html
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THE PLAN :: Iftaar at a mosque from every denomination including: Ahmadiyya, Bohra, Ismaili, Shia, Sufi, Sunni, Warith Deen Muhammad, Wahabbi and others.
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MESSAGE: http://ramadanexclusive.blogspot.com/2011/07/ramadan-message.html

Muslim terrorist on loose in Montana

After you watch the video, the title will make sense to you.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7PR9yjl4paQ

 ~ ~ ~ ~ ~~

Here is another one.

http://www.colbertnation.com/the-colbert-report-videos/393042/july-25-2011/norwegian-muslish-gunman-s-islam-esque-atrocity?xrs=share_fb

You will find these at www.WorldMuslimCongress.org

---
Mike Ghouse is a speaker, thinker, writer and a frequent guest on Hannity show and nationally syndicated Radio shows and Dallas TV, Radio and Print Media. He presides America Together Foundation and is committed to building a cohesive America and offers pluralistic solutions on issues of the day. Over 1000 articles have been published on Pluralism, Interfaith, Islam, India and cohesive societies. Two of his books are poised to be released this fall on Pluralism and Islam. He is available to speak at your place of worship, work, school, college, seminars or conferences. His work is encapsulated in 27 blogs, four websites and several forums indexed at Site: www.mikeghouse.net/ email: Mike@MikeGhouse.net

Muslims Celebrate the birthday of Imam Mahdi

The diversity in Islam is incredible, God tests out our tolerance to see if we are capable of accepting different versions of Islam, a majority of us believe in Universality, as we so proudly label God as the God of universe, not ours exclusively. We do the same with Prophet Muhammad; mercy to mankind and we have to lift ourselves to emulate to become a mercy to mankind. We continue to learn about respecting the otherness of other and accepting the God given uniqueness that Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) has prophesized.

The Islamic information center of Washington DC shared the announcement of celebration of the birthday of Imam Mahdi ( July 17) one of the great grandchildren of Prophet Muhammad, May God Bless them both.

The topic is about the Messiah.

The diversity in Islam is incredible, God continuously tests out our tolerance to see if we are capable of accepting different versions of Islam. A majority of us believe in universality of Islam and pleased to label God as the God of universe (Rabbul Aalameen) and not ours exclusively. We do the same with Prophet Muhammad; mercy to mankind (Rahmatul Aalameen) and it behooves us to lift ourselves to become the mercy to mankind.

We continue to learn about respecting the otherness of other and accepting the God given uniqueness that Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) had prophesized.

The Islamic Information Center shared the announcement of celebration of the birthday of Imam Mahdi (July 17) one of the great grandchildren of Prophet Muhammad, May God Bless them both.

Mahdi is the promised Messiah in Jewish, Christian and Islamic traditions. Indeed every tradition anchors their faith on a day when justice will be served to the whole human kind. It is a dream and it is a hope of individuals and groups. Different scenarios have been painted out by different groups from dooms day to resurrection and the bottom line remains the same; justice for everyone.

The Jewish people are still waiting for that Messiah, Christians and Muslims believe Jesus was the one and he will return to establish and re-build the kingdom of heaven where no one will live in apprehension of the other.

It is amazing how the Neocons among Muslims, Christians and Jews give a political spin to the story to suit them. The Muslim Neocons believe that when Jesus comes back he will destroy the evil forces and establish Islam and the Christian Neocons have spread the falsity that Muhammad will come and Slaughter every one or forced them to become Muslims. While the Christian Neocons believe that “their Jesus” will come and convert every Muslim, Jew, Hindu and others to Christianity. Any hatred must be verified, why do the religious right have to tell lies about others?

How gross their spin is! Jesus will restore justice to humanity by messing others and converting them to Christianity or Islam.  Convert he will everyone to common humanity that is spiritual aspect of Islam, Christianity and Judaism, the essence is same in all traditions and religions; Justice to prevail at the end through any one call him Messiah, Jesus or any name, the idea is same.

Within Islam we have different understandings as well; the Sunnis believe in the return of the Messiah whereas the Shia denomination believes that Imam Mahdi is the one and he will be back whereas the Ahmadiyya Muslims believe Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad is the messiah.

Islam is large enough to absorb all the strands regardless of what the politically oriented Muslims are bent on denigrating each other.  Indeed, we can see the wisdom in the Prophet's predictions that we will divide ourselves into 73 tribes. He understood the human fitra (nature) and prepared us to accept it instead of making arrogant claim to be the best, the best among us indeed is the one who is pious and who serves humanity.

This is inspirational and describes the end times well, “The Prophet of Islam proclaimed, Listen to the good news about the Mahdi! He will rise at the time when people will be faced with severe conflict and the earth will be hit by a violent quake. He will fill the earth with justice and equity as it is filled with injustice and tyranny. He will fill the hearts of his followers with devotion and will spread justice everywhere". I was looking for a statement like this for nearly two decades.

 Indeed that is the very basic to human nature justice and equity. If not now, it gives us solace knowing that the world would be better place some day. Contrast this with the fabrications by Christian Neocons that Prophet Muhammad will come in the end times and slaughter every one or force everyone to become Muslim.
I believe nature is created to have a balance; physical and spiritual. In this game tyrants get away with murders and injustices, there was Hitler, Stalin and Bin Laden and a host of the heads of the states who have ordered bombing of innocent, uprooting families, the only thing an ordinary person can hope justice is belief in the end times where everyone will be accountable.  The idea that everyone will pay for it restores hope and takes the burden off of us.

Mike Ghouse is Committed to building cohesive societies – details at www.mikeghouse.net

  # #

Here is the Press release.

(WASHINGTON DC -- July 17, 2011) The Islamic Information Center celebrates the birthday of Imam Mahdi, one of the great great grandchildren of Prophet Muhammad, May God Bless them both.

This holiday is being marked by hundreds of millions of Muslims around the world, and is a joyous occasion.

To learn more about Imam Mahdi and his role in the modern world, please read IIC's "Imam Mahdi Information Packet", available for free download by simply clicking on the image below! http://www.islamicinformationcenter.org/images/stories/pdfs/ImamMahdi.pdf?utm_source=Islamic+Information+Center&utm_campaign=414d01d69e-Interfaith&utm_medium=email

"Civilizations were born and destroyed many times throughout human history, but a few concepts persist in the collective beliefs of various cultures.

One of these is the belief in a final savior that will come at the end of the world. Notions differ as to who this character is or what the conditions of the end of the world will be.

Nevertheless, the belief in a just leader who will bring truth and justice to a world of chaos and corruption is widely observed in various cultural and faith traditions, especially in those of the Abrahamic traditions. In Islam, this branch of eschatology refers to the tradition of Imam Mahdi, the leader who will lead all of humanity to the path of truth and consciousness.

Imam Mahdi has several titles, be he is generally known as the 'Mahdi', or the spiritual leader who is 'rightly-guided'. Born in 868 AD, Imam Mahdi entered a period of occultation, or divine hiding, that would protect him from his enemies, and will return when he is called forth by God to fulfill his mission. This mission is necessarily one of returning justice and balance to the earth in a time of great tyranny and chaos.

Imam Mahdi will return alongside the Holy Prophet Jesus, son of Mary, to usher in a golden era of peace and tranquility.

Imam Mahdi represents the justice of God in this earth, and will answer the cries of the helpless, oppressed, and downtrodden.

The Prophet of Islam proclaimed, "Listen to the good news about the Mahdi! He will rise at the time when people will be faced with severe conflict and the earth will be hit by a violent quake. He will fill the earth with justice and equity as it is filled with injustice and tyranny. He will fill the hearts of his followers with devotion and will spread justice everywhere".

Mission of World Muslim Congress

To be a Muslim is to be a peace maker, one who constantly seeks to mitigate conflicts and nurtures goodwill for peaceful co-existence of humanity. God wants us to live in peace and harmony with his creation; Life and Matter.

We are driven by the Qur'an, Al-Hujurat, Surah 49:13: "O mankind! We have created you male and female, and have made you nations and tribes that ye may know one another. The noblest of you, in sight of Allah, is the best in conduct. Allah Knows and is Aware."

Our Mission

Our Mission is to work for a world of co-existence through inclusiveness and participation. As a member of diverse family of faiths, our efforts will be directed towards justice and equity to attain peace for the humankind with a firm grounding in commonly held values. We cannot have advantages at the cost of others. Such benefits are temporary and deleterious to lasting peace. We believe what is good for Muslims has got to be good for the world, and vice versa, to sustain it.

Indeed we aspire to promote goodwill amongst people of different affiliations, regardless of their faith, gender, race, nationality, culture or any other uniqueness blessed by the creator.

Goals

Our short term goal is to understand different faiths and let the values of Islam be understood as well. So we may know one another.

Our Long term goal is simply to bring the realization that the purpose of all religions is to bring peace and tranquility to an individual and further create a balanced relationships between the individual, society and the environment. Learning about other faiths need not imply infidelity, but rather the search will enrich one's own faith, it reaffirms the idea that the intent of every faith is to "fix" the individual as an active working and participating spoke in the wheel of life. Most people get it and a few don't.

Islam defined

The essence of Islam: Justice for every human being under one Creator (Universe is the only creation we know)

The Qur'aan starts with the word "God of Universe" (not necessarily Muslims) and ends with "Humankind" (and again not Muslims). As such it is understood that God, the cause behind creation of life and matter belongs to all of us. No one owns him (her or it) nor does one group has an exclusive favors over the other. The creator will offer equal opportunities to all and will not sign a deal behind one's back with the other.

Al-Fatiha (The Opening) 1:2 All praise is due to God alone, the Sustainer of all the worlds, [2] Alhamdu lillahi rabbi alAAalameena

الْحَمْدُ للّهِ رَبِّ الْعَالَمِينَ (1:2)

An-Nas (The Mankind) 114:1 SAY: "I seek refuge with the Sustainer of men, 

قُلْ أَعُوذُ بِرَبِّ النَّاسِ (114:1

We have a monumental task to repair the World, and we will do our part in working towards a World of co-existence, one person at a time. We are committed, and now help us God. Amen.

Good Deeds

Islam teaches one to be non-judgmental, and consistently encourages individuals to do good. It emphasizes about individual responsibility towards the peace and security of society at large.

Prophet Mohammad (pbuh) described a good deed as an act which benefits others, such as planting a tree that serves generations of wayfarers with fruit and the shade. The world is a better place today because of a good legacy bequeathed to humanity by people of all faiths that came before us. We owe it to coming generations to leave the world a little better than we found it, to usher an era of justice and peace.

With Prejudice towards none

Almost all Muslims are cognizant and repeat the verse “God is the master of the Day of Judgment, and he alone we worship”. A fully observant Muslim recites this verse at least 50 times a day and refrains from judging others, as he or she believes God only can make that call. There is no compulsion in the matters of faith, say the Qur'aan.

Al-Fatiha (The Opening) 1:4 Lord of the Day of Judgment!

مَـالِكِ يَوْمِ الدِّينِ (1:4)

Individual responsibility

Qur'an, Al-An'am, Surah 6:163-164: I ask whether I should seek any god besides God--when he is the Lord of all things. All people will reap the harvest of their own deeds; no one will bear another’s burden. Ultimately, all of you will return to your Lord, and he will resolve your disputes.

Al-An'am (The Cattle) 

6:163 in whose divinity none has a share: for thus have I been bidden-and I shall [always] be foremost among those who surrender themselves unto Him."

Topics discussed in this Verse: 

[Allah:has no partner] [Allah's attributes:Cherisher and Sustainer] [Muslims]

لاَ شَرِيكَ لَهُ وَبِذَلِكَ أُمِرْتُ وَأَنَاْ أَوَّلُ الْمُسْلِمِينَ (6:163)

Al-An'am (The Cattle) 

6:164 Say: "Am I, then, to seek a sustainer other than God, when He is the Sustainer of all things?" And whatever [wrong] any human being commits rests upon himself alone; and no bearer of burdens shall be made to bear another's burden. [163] And, in time, unto your Sustainer you all must return: and then He will make you. [truly] understand all that on which you were wont to differ. [164]

Topics discussed in this Verse: 

قُلْ أَغَيْرَ اللّهِ أَبْغِي رَبًّا وَهُوَ رَبُّ كُلِّ شَيْءٍ وَلاَ تَكْسِبُ كُلُّ نَفْسٍ إِلاَّ عَلَيْهَا وَلاَ تَزِرُ وَازِرَةٌ وِزْرَ أُخْرَى ثُمَّ إِلَى رَبِّكُم مَّرْجِعُكُمْ فَيُنَبِّئُكُم بِمَا كُنتُمْ فِيهِ تَخْتَلِفُونَ (6:164)

Al-An'am (The Cattle) 

6:165 For, He it is who has made you inherit the earth, [165] and has raised some of you by degrees above others, so that He might try you by means of what He has bestowed upon you. [166] Verily, thy Sustainer is swift in retribution: yet, behold, He is indeed much-forgiving, a dispenser of grace.

Topics discussed in this Verse:

[Allah:raises people to ranks (degrees)] [Allah's attributes:Most Merciful] [Allah's attributes:Oft_Forgiving] [Allah's attributes:Quick in punishment] [Trials and tests] [Vicegerent creation of]

وَهُوَ الَّذِي جَعَلَكُمْ خَلاَئِفَ الأَرْضِ وَرَفَعَ بَعْضَكُمْ فَوْقَ بَعْضٍ دَرَجَاتٍ لِّيَبْلُوَكُمْ فِي مَ

ا آتَاكُمْ إِنَّ رَبَّكَ سَرِيعُ الْعِقَابِ وَإِنَّهُ لَغَفُورٌ رَّحِيمٌ (6:165)

A Just society

Islam emerged to bring peace, tranquility and equilibrium to the multitudes of tribes at conflict with each other in the 6th century AD. In a period of 23 years, thru suffering, persecution and sacrifice a just society evolved. Diversity was it’s basis, respecting each tradition and bringing them together and appreciating the creator was the foundation stone of Islam. Justice, liberty and freedom are the core values enshrined in Islam.

Pluralism

Islam is indeed a pluralistic faith and imbues a sense of humility and ideals of equality of humankind. These values are embedded in its rituals practices. All people harvest their own deeds.

He fashioned each one of you--and each one of you is beautiful. To God you will all return. He knows all that the heavens and the earth contain. He knows all that you hide and all that you reveal. He knows your deepest thoughts.

At-Taghabun (Loss and Gain)

64:1 ALL THAT IS in the heavens and all that is on earth extols God's limitless glory: His is all dominion, and to Him all praise is due; and He has the power to will anything.

يُسَبِّحُ لِلَّهِ مَا فِي السَّمَاوَاتِ وَمَا فِي الْأَرْضِ لَهُ الْمُلْكُ وَلَهُ الْحَمْدُ وَهُوَ عَلَى كُلِّ شَيْءٍ قَدِيرٌ (64:1)

64:2 He it is who has created you: and among you are such as deny this truth, and among you are such as believe [in it]. [1] And God sees all that you do.
هُوَ الَّذِي خَلَقَكُمْ فَمِنكُمْ كَافِرٌ وَمِنكُم مُّؤْمِنٌ وَاللَّهُ بِمَا تَعْمَلُونَ بَصِيرٌ (64:2)

64:3 He has created the heavens and the earth in accordance with [an inner] truth, [2] and has formed you - and formed you so well; [3] and with Him is your journey's end.

خَلَقَ السَّمَاوَاتِ وَالْأَرْضَ بِالْحَقِّ وَصَوَّرَكُمْ فَأَحْسَنَ صُوَرَكُمْ وَإِلَيْهِ الْمَصِيرُ (64:3)

64:4 He knows all that is in the heavens and on earth; and He knows all that you keep secret as well as all that you bring into the open: for God has full knowledge of what is in the hearts [of men].

64:5 HAVE THE STORIES of those who, in earlier times, refused to acknowledge the truth never yet come within your ken? [They denied it -] and so they had to taste the evil outcome of their own doings, [4] with [more] grievous suffering awaiting them [in the life to come]:

أَلَمْ يَأْتِكُمْ نَبَأُ الَّذِينَ كَفَرُوا مِن قَبْلُ فَذَاقُوا وَبَالَ أَمْرِهِمْ وَلَهُمْ عَذَابٌ أَلِيمٌ (64:5

The Madinah pact, prescribes the rights of its Citizens and Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) was the signatory to it as the head of the City State. It was an all inclusive agreement between the Jews, Christians, Sabeans, Quraish, Muslims and other tribes for a peaceful co-existence. An example was set for a pluralistic society in documenting the rights of individuals. Perhaps it was the first historical document that included diverse people with freedom to practice what they believe. The Word Ummah was used in the document to mean all residents of the City.

Freedom

God could have made us all alike; instead he chose to make us humans, giving guidance on one hand, temptations on the other – then giving room to make mistakes, and room for correction. Islam has not claimed monopoly to heaven; it is assured to those who do good deeds. Good deeds are defined by Prophet Mohammad (pbuh) as how your treat others. He told his daughter that it would be her deeds that would earn her a place in the Kingdom of God and not because she is the daughter of the Prophet. There is no free lunch, you have to take responsibility for your actions and earn the grace of God through serving his creation.

Qur'an, Al-Inshiqaq, Surah 84:7-15: Each person will be given a book. Those who are given their books in their right hands (understanding the book correctly) will be judged leniently; and they will return to their people joyfully. But those who are given their books in their left hands (misunderstanding) will call their own destruction on themselves, and burn in the fire of hell. There are the people who have never cared for their neighbors; they thought they would never return to God. Their Lord watches all that people do.

For Millions of years, the physical dimension of the Universe has existed in a perfect balance as it did not have the ego to compete with each other nor had the freedom to mess with it. They do, what God intended them to do. It is the human dimension that needed religion, and every religion is meant to bring peace to individuals and balance to the world around them through free choice.

God willing, the Muslim community will be drawing the blue prints and developing a 14 year plan to find their space in the world of communities, as contributors and active participants in the peaceful co-existence for the people of the World. The Book “Muslim Vision 2020” is on the horizon.

The human desire to monopolize World resources is the root cause of all evil. The pockets of anarchy and problems of the world are born out of fear and insecurities of evil men. Religion is not the source of wars or conflict. In fact, Religion is the best Gift humans have received from God, without which the World would be chaotic.

Praise the Lord. We are pleased to announce the formation of The World Muslim Congress, A non-profit organization dedicated to promoting co-existence and contributing towards a just world. (Formed: 5/25/2006)

Our silence has done more damage to us, our faith and our World. Silent no more, God willing, we will resolutely take back our faith for our good and the good of mankind.

A Major Paradigm Shift

The world has indeed become a global community. Everyone is a neighbor to everyone else; we aspire to nurture the concept of good neighborliness in the world. Our advisory board will be represented by individuals from every faith. It is time for us to be equal citizens of one world, our home. This is a major paradigm shift in how the religious organizations would be conducting their business in the coming years.

Our upcoming website: www.WorldMuslimCongress.com will present a range of values in Islam. It is a shame that some of the translations of Qur’an contain phrases that are not in Qur’an. A dozen translations will be presented verse by verse, with the source. So you may know the truth!

Speak up, silent no more ®

Mike Ghouse, President, World Muslim Congress, 2665 Villa Creek Dr, Suite 206, Dallas, TX 75234

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Additional Notes

We are drawing the blue prints, and developing a 14 year plan to find our space in the world of communities, as contributors and active participants in the peaceful co-existence of the people of the World.

God willing (Insha Allah) by the September 11, we plan to role out a Seven point program achieving the mission encrusted in the press release below. We are driven by the thought "How can we make the world a better place for every one".

Nothing has ever happened without taking a step forward. The website www.WorldMuslimCongress.com is scheduled to be launched on Monday, September 11, 2006. It will be interactive and accommodative of diversity within Islam and aims to be a voice of the Majority of Muslims who chose moderation.

Islam is not a monolithic religion and has allowed diversity from its very inception. Justice, Liberty and freedom are its core values. God could have made us desire-less and sinless angels, instead he chose to make us human, giving guidance on one hand, temptations on the other – then giving room to make mistakes, and room to correct ourselves thru repentance. Forgiveness is a full cycle concept and not merely utterance of words. Hence, Islam is a deed based religion.

Our silence has done a lot more damage to us than the damage done by the extremists. We have a forum now to speak up and present the majority view to the world.

If you would like to join the discussions on any topic, please send your email request to: WorldMuslimCongress-Subscribe@yahoogroups.com