Cambridge Islamic Sciences Seminars (CISS)

Surah Al-Qiyamah - Dawah To Islamophobes & Liberals

2013-05-17T04:04:00.000-07:00

Lately, there has been a lot in the news that is stirring up anti-Muslim sentiments on issues ranging from women's rights (eg. topless jihad) and gay rights (eg. same-sex marriage) to gender segregation of ISOC events at British universities. As one would expect, there has been much analysis from Muslim organisations and individuals in trying to uncover the motives behind these phenomena and respond with reasoned arguments. However, what we as Muslims fail to realise is that these responses are going to have very little or no effect at all.

"We Muslims are not serious because we want to address these issues in the society which are necessary consequences of some deeper values that this society is built upon. These values trace back to the principles of the French Revolution such as freedom, equality and fraternity. If we are serious and we want to see these issues go away, then we have to teach people that they are not free but they are slaves of Allah. We must teach them the slavery of Allah and constantly think and plan how we can change the minds of the people. If somebody is a slave then he or she would want to do what his or her master would want them to do. Otherwise it is impossible to stop these issues and if we try to we will only end up fighting and achieving nothing" - Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi

One of the most powerful surahs in the Qur'an - Surah Al-Qiyamah - teaches us how to make a real impression in the society by taking the conversation to a different level. It tells us

we should teach people the right message (slavery, resurrection and accountability)
we should not hurry but rather, take our time to learn, understand, plan and act in the way that Allah (SWT) wants us to and not how we want (verses16-19)

This Surah is such a deep surah that if we understand it properly, it would give us the confidence and the ability to deal with anyone regardless of their position and status.
We have a very blessed opportunity this Saturday to study the deeper aspects of the Qur'an with one of the foremost scholars and thinkers of the Western world today - Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi - who is not only an expert in Hadith but in Tafsir as well. The seminar coming up on Saturday is for anyone who is serious about understanding the Qur'an with real depth.

Sign up now for this unmissable seminar on its own or for an annual pass with 50% discount...

Surah Al-Qiyamah
The Resurrection - A Fantasy or A Reality?
The Magnificent Journey Seminar Series

By Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi (Oxford)

Date: Saturday 18th May 2013 Time: 10AM - 6PM

Venue: Cambridge University and Live On-line Web Access

http://courses.meoc.org.uk << Click Here To Register

"This course has really been far beyond my expectations Sheikh Akram has given me a new perspective on the topics covered, including a lot of wisdom and bringing the topic away from the superficial discussions to the core essential foundations that need to be understood by every da'ee. It has completely change my perspective on the inner dimension of a da'ee and the outer expectations of a da'ee. I have rarely seen that depth of understanding when it comes to the dawah. May Allah bless him, increase him in knowledge and wisdom and allow all the da'ees to benefit from his wisdom and his understanding." - Steeve Brador, London

“There are not many people that you meet and in the first hour of sitting with them you decide you love them for the sake of Allah, but for me that was the case one week ago, when I had the honour of sitting in on a course by Shaykh Akram Nadwi. The next week I was with him again and by no means did he cease to amaze me any less. When someone like Shaykh Akram speaks and explains things the way he does, you know that anyone who is not benefiting from him will look back in 10 years and think, man I totally lost out there. You may know a topic inside out but because of the depth of his knowledge and more importantly his understanding, when he explains something you are thrown back by how he explained it in a way you never heard it before. MashaAllah. These courses are essential for every Muslim. If people are sincere about seeking knowledge that will connect them to their Creator, Allah (SWT), then they will take full advantage as they will not only help one understand their purpose in life in a deeper and more meaningful way but they will also be in a strong position to articulate Islam to the people around them in a way that makes sense and appeals the the hearts and minds.” - Tariq Shaekh, London

"Jazakumullah khair for the efforts of the MEOC for arranging these blessed gatherings of knowledge. The seminars I've attended so far have several elements that make them very special, starting from the choice of topics themselves which cater to the more profound needs of the people rather than addressing some superficial issues that seem to be more fashionable today. Even the content of the seminars and the manner of teaching by Shaikh Akram Nadwi are directly focussed towards developing a deeper understanding of these issues. In these seminars, one gets a glimpse of the years of learning that have gone into the brilliant scholarship of Shaikh Nadwi. Furthermore his knowledge seems to be blessed by an acute understanding of the needs of the Ummah. The seminar on the 'Legacy of Ibrahim (a.s.)' was exceptionally beautiful, wherein, the Shaikh in his own words confessed that he was attempting to transmit, not knowledge, but the state of his heart, to the others present. While the knowledge and the insight that one gains into the Qur'an, the Sunnah and the history of Muslims through these seminars is invaluable, I personally feel that these sessions are more than just one-day courses. I am inclined to call them gatherings of Remembrance of Allah, and we all know the blessings of such gatherings!" - Mohini Verma, PhD Student, Cambridge University

More Testimonials (including videos): http://courses.meoc.org.uk/p/testimonials.html

Previous Posts

"Inconsistencies" in The Qur'an - Exposed!

The Resurrection - A Fantasy or A Reality - How Can People Know?

"Inconsistencies" in The Qur'an - Exposed!

2013-05-16T10:40:00.004-07:00

When one reads the Qur'an (or a translation of it) one cannot but wonder why certain seemingly non-related verses have been placed in the midst of an otherwise perfectly connected passage of verses. One such example is in Surah Al-Qiyamah. This surah is about The Resurrection. However, in between the verses about The Resurrection, there appear some instructions to the Prophet (SAW) which seem to have no relationship to what is before or after. The verses are:

<<[Prophet], do not rush your tongue in an attempt to hasten [your memorization of] the Revelation: We shall make sure of its safe collection and recitation. When We have recited it, repeat the recitation and We shall make it clear.>> [Surah Al-Qiyamah 75:16-19]

The natural reaction of many of us Muslims when we come across such verses is to refer to books of tafsir and if we can't find a satisfactory explanation, then, to just swallow the "inconsistency" and move on. If this happens often, then the Qur'an - which is supposed to be clear guidance - turns into a puzzle and this creates a mental block in understanding the Qur'an. The reality is that no single verse in the Qur'an is unrelated but it is our minds that have not been trained to think deeply enough to understand. Unsurprisingly, books cannot teach us how to reach this type of thinking as this requires interaction with a qualified and experienced teacher whose level of thinking is both broad and deep.

We have a very blessed opportunity this Saturday to study such deeper aspects of the Qur'an with one of the foremost scholars and thinkers of the Western world today - Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi - who is not only an expert in Hadith but in Tafsir as well. The seminar coming up on Saturday is for anyone who is serious about understanding the Qur'an with real depth.

Sign up now for this unmissable seminar on its own or for an annual pass with 50% discount...

Surah Al-Qiyamah
The Resurrection - A Fantasy or A Reality?
The Magnificent Journey Seminar Series

By Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi (Oxford)

Date: Saturday 18th May 2013 Time: 10AM - 6PM

Venue: Cambridge University and Live On-line Web Access

http://courses.meoc.org.uk << Click Here To Register

"The Magnificent Journey continues... Today's seminar was yet another awesome seminar in the series with exceptional crowd and amazing insights from Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi. This is truly a historic seminar series on the explanation of The Quran and is redefining our understanding and relationship with the Book of ALLAH. The emphasise of Dr Nadwi on establishing our connection with ALLAH and utilising the space given to us for recognising one God, is the key highlight of these seminars. Each seminar begins by strongly negating the wrong practises which have been introduced in the true teachings of worshipping one ALLAH and then builds on it by inviting us to ponder on the sings of ALLAH and get closer to our Rabb. Truly inspiring series, I would strongly recommend everybody including men, women and families to attend the Magnificent Journey Seminars as these are life changing and truly install this urge of loving the Book of ALLAH. The subtle nuances of the language which make the Qur'an such a powerful speech are beautifully explained by Dr Akram Nadwi in a nice balanced way keeping the things simple and interesting at the same time. His tremendous scholarships of Hadith literature and exceptional skills of Arabic language make this series a unique experience and a historic event in the city of Cambridge." - Awais Ahmed Awan, Cambridge

"Alhamdulillah I've attended 3 seminars of Sheikh Akram's so far, and Insha Allah I will keep coming back for more! He was introduced to me by my brother who attends his study circles regularly in Oxford. I loved the seminar on Women scholars in Islam, it was a total eye opener into what a Muslim woman's role in society is, which surprisingly (or not) goes against many cultiural and conventionally held notions of Muslim women. My other favourite one was the tafseer of Surat al Fatiha and the last ten surahs, I will not be exaggerating when I say that I truly found it mind blowing. Sheikh Akram is an absolute treasure trove of knowledge but Masha Allah he always carries himself with the utmost humility. I have already had a look at the list of future seminars and I think MEOC is doing a great job in giving the layman an opportunity to have an exciting insight into the world of Muslim scholarship with its choice of highly intellectual topics. Last but not least, its a great opportunity to meet new people of diverse backgrounds. Well done all of you and may Allah reward you for your efforts." - Dr Fathima Shyma Fazal, Boston, Lincolnshire

"I recently attended the Tafsir of Surah Nuh. Whilst I had heard much about Shaykh Akram, this was my first class with him. The first thing that you cannot help but appreciate is how the Shaykh hooks you with his connection to knowledge, in a pure sense, there was no need to employ any speaking tactics to keep the attendees engrossed. The Shaykh, made every point relevant, to connect the text with our lives today and our response to get closer to our Creator. Indeed the Shaykh mentioned countless gems that he mentioned offhand but when contemplated on, really struck a chord in the heart. It was also great that the Shaykh was very open to questions, however sensitive, and tackled them head on, without compromising the principles of our faith, exemplifying that Allah azza wa jal has not only blessed him with knowledge, but also wisdom. I don't say this lightly, I genuinely believe, if you have the opportunity to study with the Shaykh, and you don't take it, then you have missed out on tasting the fruits of the knowledge of the Scholarship of our time and land" - Umer Suleman, South London

More Testimonials (including videos): http://courses.meoc.org.uk/p/testimonials.html

Previous Posts

The Resurrection - A Fantasy or A Reality - How Can People Know?

2013-05-09T12:57:00.000-07:00

There is no religious belief more disputed in the entire history of mankind than the belief in the resurrection. Even many with religious inclinations completely deny the resurrection or at least take it as a metaphor with no reality. The rise of atheism in modern times has only increased this tendency. Their usual line is <<There is nothing except our life on this earth, and never shall we be raised up again>> [Qur'an 6:29]

The Qur'an tell us that the The Resurrection is clear and obvious and its evidence is within us and all around us. So what is this evidence and why can't people see it? This is the subject of one of the most powerful early Makkan Surahs of the Qur'an - Surah Al-Qiyamah, which starts with <<Does man think We shall not put his bones back together?>> [75:3] and ends with <<Does He who can do this not have the power to bring the dead back to life?>> [75:40]

Join the Magnificent Journey Series Seminar on Surah Al-Qiyamah for a detailed explanation of this surah that would make you wonder how you could have missed such a seminar. This really is a life-saving seminar for Muslims (as well as for non-Muslims) in this day and age where the thinking of the human being has been reduced to what is immediate and apparent as described in the same surah <<Nay, but you do love the fleeting Now and neglect the Hereafter>> [75:20-21]

Surah Al-Qiyamah
The Resurrection - A Fantasy or A Reality?
The Magnificent Journey Seminar Series

By Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi (Oxford)

Date: Saturday 18th May 2013 Time: 10AM - 6PM

Venue: Cambridge University and Live On-line Web Access

http://courses.meoc.org.uk << Click Here To Register

Why Are Muslims Hated Today in The East and The West?

2013-05-09T12:49:00.002-07:00

Many of us Muslims like to compare the problems we face in our lives with the struggles of the Prophet (PBUH) and his companions and we think that we are disliked by some Non-Muslims due to the same reasons that the early Muslims were disliked and opposed by the Non-Muslims of their time. The early Muslims were opposed and even persecuted because of the unwavering conviction of their faith. This conviction helped them to hold fast and persevere with the best of character and manners, and they eventually conquered the hearts and minds of their opponents, their hatred and animosity replaced by love and faith and a longing to join the Muslims and be like them.

Today, the circumstances are very different and we are not disliked because of our conviction but because of our lack of conviction. This lack of conviction comes out clearly in our character, attitude, actions and manners.

<<Do you not see how God makes comparisons? A good word is like a good tree whose root is firm and whose branches are high in the sky, yielding constant fruit by its Lord’s leave– God makes such comparisons for people so that they may reflect– but an evil word is like a rotten tree, uprooted from the surface of the earth, with no power to endure. God will give firmness to those who believe in the firmly rooted word, both in this world and the Hereafter, but the evildoers He leaves to stray: God does whatever He will.>> [Qur'an 14:24-27]

Our character and manners stem from what we have deep in our hearts. No amount of cosmetic or superficial tinkering can remedy our situation as our true character and manners can never be kept hidden.

"Our manners are, after our skin, and then our clothes, the point of contact between us and the world, especially other people. It is an interface that should be looked after and kept in good order. Just as we care for our body’s cleanliness and good health and just as we care that our clothes are clean and do not offend others or leave a bad impression, so also we should regard manners as something requiring regular attention and maintenance. In Islam, manners are not a superficial polish, nor a specialised routine for special occasions, nor a preserve of the upper classes. Rather, the same manners are commended for all Muslims, of high or low status, rich or poor, and for all occasions." - Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi (from his seminar notes)

So what is the way forward? Join Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi this Saturday in Luton for a heart-melting seminar with deep insights on Manners in Islam that teaches the core and the real substance of manners as opposed to superficial etiquettes that people focus on today. If you are looking for real change in your life and the people around you then this is a must-go seminar for you. Please register now to reserve your place.

Al-Jalal Masjid, Luton supported by MEOC - Cambridge Islamic Sciences Seminars Present

The Best of Manners in Islam
Seminar on Perfecting Our Manners based on Selected Prophetic Traditions from the Book of Manners - Sunan Abu Dawud

By Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi (Oxford)

Date: Saturday, 11 May 2013 Time: 09:30am - 4:00pm

Venue: Al Jalal Masjid, 314 Biscot Road, Luton LU3 1AZ

Course Fee: £10 (includes course booklet and refreshments)

Registration: http://courses.meoc.org.uk/p/luton-best-of-manners.html

Contact: Al Jalal Masjid: 07739850155 / info@aljalalmasjid.org

"Of all the scholars I have had the opportunity to study with, I have found Shaikh Akram Nadwi to be the closest, in knowledge, manners and teaching, to how I would imagine some of the great Hadith scholars of the past would have been. He has a vast knowledge of Qur'an, Hadith and Fiqh, a down-to-earth, humble, approachable style, and great teaching ability. His classes are not just beneficial from a learning perspective, but also to marvel at the awe-inspiring wealth of knowledge of our scholars masha Allah. His 57 volume work going through the biographies of some 8,500 women scholars of Hadith is a monumental endeavour. The mere fact of its existence can be a major talking point in discussion with Muslims and non-Muslims, and is almost a stand-alone proof of Islam's unparalleled wealth of female scholarship." - Dr Omar Mahroo (London)

"I was just wanted to add to the growing feedback of how remarkable that weekend was for me. By Allah, I do not say it lightly that it was possibly the best weekend I've ever had. The introduction to the study of Hadith, Shaykh Akram's Nadwi teaching and the impeccable jems and one-liners he would dish out regularly stunned me constantly throughout the course. But more than that, being taught by such a knowledgeable and humble scholar, masha'Allah, was a unique and awe-inspiring experience for me. Alhamdulillah, I was able to stay after Maghrib and also after Fajr, to listen to his lectures outside of the course. So in essence, my entire weekend was spent in the Shaykh's company and I could understand -- rather, catch a glimpse of -- how students in the past would love to remain in their teacher's company, soaking up their knowledge and benefiting from their wisdom. Jazkallahu khair for the opportunity to attend such an incredible course, and insha'Allah, I pray I can attend it again (up north!). May Allah SWT bless Shaykh Akram Nadwi and preserve his likes, Ameen. (I'd also like to add that the book stall was amazing, masha'Allah -- I don't think I've spent so much on books in one go!)" - Aanisah Rahim (London)

Wassalaam

Muslim Education & Outreach Cambridge (MEOC)

Tel: 07736 779448 / 01223 655223 Email: courses@meoc.org.uk

The Day That The Prophet (SAW) Became A Messenger - Surah Al-Muddaththir - Its Relevance for Our Lives

2013-04-19T12:12:00.000-07:00

"The sharpness of the command, ‘Stand up and warn!’ marks the transition from being informed, a nabi – a prophet to whom the reality of the hereafter has been made certain – to being burdened with a commission, a rasul, a messenger who must convey that reality and all its diverse impacts on individual and collective transactions, and on the inward and outward disposition of human beings to their Creator. These are matters that we know from sound, authenticated tradition. We know therefore the sabab, the situation, to which certain verses are connected. What then? The situation is the anchor-point, the secure reference, from which meaning opens out. Nobody has ever pretended that, since we can never be in that same situation again, the associated verses do not apply to any other. On the contrary, we all know perfectly well that this surah and the whole Qur’an are proclaimed to us, and so we are informed. It remains for us to show that we do not sit wrapped up in this state of being informed, but carry it into our lives and of those nearest us, as God’s Messenger did, with conviction as to its urgency and its universality. It is obvious that the sabab does not limit the way we explain and understand the verses connected to it; it only anchors our tafsir, so that we do not wander off and get lost in our search for meanings." - Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi (From his notes for Surah Al-Muddaththir)

Surah Al-Muddaththir is a surah which had a great impact in the life of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and hence it should be so in the life of every believer. Therefore, an opportunity to study this surah in depth with a scholar of the calibre of Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi is truly a blessing from Allah (SWT). In addition to an explanation of this surah, tomorrow's seminar will also address some important guidelines for understanding the Qur'an that many are unaware of.

"In my lecture I will go through the surah verse by verse. In these notes I go over, in relation to this surah, five general matters that often come up when we are trying to understand the Qur’an, and perhaps learn something of how these matters are connected. A: What is the relevance of reports going back to the Companions that inform us about the situation in connection with which certain verses were revealed? B: Reliable Prophetic hadiths and/or Companion reports teach us the tafsir (the explanation) of many verses and passages of the Qur’an. How can we benefit from them? C: What is the relevance of the sheer force of speech, the sheer literary power, of the Qur’an? D: How are we to deal with words and expressions in the Qur’an which the Qur’an itself tells us will strengthen belief in some people and strengthen unbelief in other people? E: The Qur’an says, in several places in different ways, that it is sent down for those who practise taqwa, for example, hudan li-l-muttaqin guidance for those who practise taqwa. Guidance for those who fear the Fire and hope for the Garden. But what about those who do not, what about unbelievers and misbelievers?" - Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi (From his notes for Surah Al-Muddaththir)

Tomorrow in Cambridge (and worldwide through live on-line access), for the first time in the UK, a detailed explanation of Surah Al-Muddaththir by Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi, one of the foremost scholars and thinkers of the Western world.

Surah Al-Muddaththir
Preparation for Public Duty to Islam
The Magnificent Journey Seminar Series

By Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi (Oxford)

Date: Saturday 20th April 2013 Time: 10AM - 6PM

Venue: Cambridge University and Live On-line Web Access

http://courses.meoc.org.uk << Click Here To Register

"Alhamdulillah I've attended 3 seminars of Sheikh Akram's so far, and Insha Allah I will keep coming back for more! He was introduced to me by my brother who attends his study circles regularly in Oxford. I loved the seminar on Women scholars in Islam, it was a total eye opener into what a Muslim woman's role in society is, which surprisingly (or not) goes against many cultiural and conventionally held notions of Muslim women. My other favourite one was the tafseer of Surat al Fatiha and the last ten surahs, I will not be exaggerating when I say that I truly found it mind blowing. Sheikh Akram is an absolute treasure trove of knowledge but Masha Allah he always carries himself with the utmost humility. I have already had a look at the list of future seminars and I think MEOC is doing a great job in giving the layman an opportunity to have an exciting insight into the world of Muslim scholarship with its choice of highly intellectual topics. Last but not least, its a great opportunity to meet new people of diverse backgrounds. Well done all of you and may Allah reward you for your efforts." - Dr Fathima Shyma Fazal, Boston, Lincolnshire

"Jazakumullah khair for the efforts of the MEOC for arranging these blessed gatherings of knowledge. The seminars I've attended so far have several elements that make them very special, starting from the choice of topics themselves which cater to the more profound needs of the people rather than addressing some superficial issues that seem to be more fashionable today. Even the content of the seminars and the manner of teaching by Shaikh Akram Nadwi are directly focussed towards developing a deeper understanding of these issues. In these seminars, one gets a glimpse of the years of learning that have gone into the brilliant scholarship of Shaikh Nadwi. Furthermore his knowledge seems to be blessed by an acute understanding of the needs of the Ummah. The seminar on the 'Legacy of Ibrahim (a.s.)' was exceptionally beautiful, wherein, the Shaikh in his own words confessed that he was attempting to transmit, not knowledge, but the state of his heart, to the others present. While the knowledge and the insight that one gains into the Qur'an, the Sunnah and the history of Muslims through these seminars is invaluable, I personally feel that these sessions are more than just one-day courses. I am inclined to call them gatherings of Remembrance of Allah, and we all know the blessings of such gatherings!" - Mohini Verma, PhD Student, Cambridge University

Warning The People Around Us About The Inevitable

2013-04-15T10:43:00.001-07:00

Warning the people about the Day of Judgement, the punishment of Allah (SWT), and the Hell fire is almost non-existent today. We worry that it is out-of-fashion and would put people off, so we avoid talking about them. However the Qur'an and the Hadith of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) focus more on the warning than the glad tidings. Why is that?

"We think that warning is harsh and unfashionable so we only give people the good news. But we don't realise that warning is part of the good news. You strike and alert people's minds with the warning (or bad news) so that they would be eager to receive the good news. Good news alone without warning has little effect. This can be seen in the Christian tradition when the Privy Council decided that Hell fire is not an essential part of Christian belief, opposing Jesus' teachings. Fear of God should be dominant in people's minds and that is why Prophet Muhammad (SAW) started his mission with warning. We will learn this in detail in Surah Al-Muddaththir" - Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi

Coming up this Saturday in Cambridge (and Worldwide through live on-line access), for the first time in the UK, a detailed explanation of Surah Al-Muddaththir by Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi, one of the foremost scholars and thinkers of the Western world today.

<<You, wrapped in your cloak, arise and give warning! Proclaim the greatness of your Lord; cleanse yourself; keep away from all filth; do not be overwhelmed and weaken; be steadfast in your Lord’s cause>> [Surah Al-Muddaththir 74:1-7]

Please sign up today for this amazing seminar....

Surah Al-Muddaththir
The Preparation for Public Duty to Islam
The Magnificent Journey Seminar Series

By Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi (Oxford)

Date: Saturday 20th April 2013 Time: 10AM - 6PM

Venue: Cambridge University and Live On-line Web Access

http://courses.meoc.org.uk << Click Here To Register

Testimonials

"Jazakumullahu khayran. I can't thank you enough for the opportunity. I am so impressed by the Sheikh, subhanallah, mashaAllah. A very rare example of tradition fused with awareness of the environment and reality while not compromising God consciousness. If only there were more like him. Questions, I'm so glad we can ask them even if it's not about the sura. Yes, how else are we to learn from his wisdom and experience if we don't ask? The issues facing Muslims in the West are so many and so confusing and I just love the fact that he does not have an inferiority complex about Islam. It's really sad to see psychologically defeated scholars start throwing away tradition in the name of progress and fitting in. Sheikh Akram Nadwi gives you the sense that the real life is in the hereafter so don't have to get so tied up with the philosophies and controversies that sometimes take away our attention from the real purpose. The onus is on us, are we being pious?" - Aisha Barkatulla, Cambridge

"How magnificent to have spent a weekend in the company of the Prophet sallallahu alaihi wa sallam and his companions, reading and studying their ahadeeth. I feel as though I was transported to their times and have returned with renewed strength and resolve to continue the work we need to do in the ‘Daar ud-Da’wah’ we live in. I am sitting here with Ijaazah in hand feeling honoured that Allah allowed me to be a student of Sheikh Akram Nadwi and through him find some connection with some of the great scholars of our past. From his poignant scholarly anecdotes, to his emphatic exhortations, punctuated with Urdu and Persian poetry; studying with the Sheikh is a truly enriching experience. I’m actually learning a lot from him both about rectifying myself and the most important focal points for that and rectifying some of the causes of the downfall of our Ummah today. Without resorting to alienating any particular group or school of thought, the Sheikh is not afraid to hold a mirror up to what needs changing in our communities and in our times. I liked the balance of holistic spiritual principles and finer technical details Sheikh also discussed and his lessons are suitable for serious students of knowledge and people who are in the early stages of their journey. I look forward to future courses. I found the crèche facility to be very useful. I would have found it very difficult to attend without it. The venue was great and respected the privacy of brothers and sisters. May Allah make knowledge a proof for us and not against us. Ameen" - Fatima Barkatullah, London (Testimonial on the Forty Hadith Course)

"This course has really been far beyond my expectations Sheikh Akram has given me a new perspective on the topics covered, including a lot of wisdom and bringing the topic away from the superficial discussions to the core essential foundations that need to be understood by every da'ee. It has completely change my perspective on the inner dimension of a da'ee and the outer expectations of a da'ee. I have rarely seen that depth of understanding when it comes to the dawah. May Allah bless him, increase him in knowledge and wisdom and allow all the da'ees to benefit from his wisdom and his understanding." - Steeve Brador, London

More Testimonials (including videos): http://courses.meoc.org.uk/p/testimonials.html

http://courses.meoc.org.uk << Click Here To Register

Muslim Education & Outreach Cambridge (MEOC)
Tel: 07736 779448 / 01223 655223 Email: courses@meoc.org.uk

Fiqh of Love - Marriage & Family in Islam

2013-04-10T16:15:00.002-07:00

For the first time in Birmingham (and worldwide live online) .... An amazing seminar on love, marriage and family in Islam by one of the foremost scholars and thinkers of the Western world today.

“And of His signs is that He created for you from yourselves mates that you may find tranquillity in them; and He placed between you affection and mercy. Indeed in that are signs for a people who give thought.” - Qur’an

"They are Your Garments and You are Their Garments" - Qur'an

"Marriage is Half of Your Religion..." - Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)

“Marriage is my Sunnah. He who shuns my Sunnah is not of me” - Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)

FIQH OF LOVE
Marriage & Family in Islam
Guidance for Healthy Partnership & Happy Family

By Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi (Oxford)

Venue: Muath Trust, Bordesley Centre, Birmingham

Date: Saturday 13th April 2013 Time: 9:30AM - 6:00PM

Registration: http://courses.meoc.org.uk

Early Bird Discount: 40% Student Discount and 20% General Discount

Topics covered include: • Understanding the aims and benefits of marriage
• How to find a suitable partner?
• How to get married?
• The marriage contract
• The marriage ceremony
• What is love and how to develop it?
• Rights and responsibilities of spouses
• Resolving differences and disputes
• Managing expectations
• Relations with extended family
• Caring for each other
• Caring for children
• The best examples to follow
• What if things don’t work out?
• Question & Answers

Testimonials

"Jazak'Allah khair for a fabulous seminar. I truly enjoyed it and it was very much worth the trek from London to Cambridge" - Antti Kangaslahti, London

"The Fiqh of Love was the most amazing Islamic seminar I have ever attended. I have told all my friends and family about Sheikh Nadwi and his inspiring talk. All in all, I want to say that everything was brilliant. The food arrangements, prayer arrangements, book stall...everything. Thank you so much for making it a possibility" - Anosha Saleem, LLM Student, Cambridge University

"The sheikh explained with such elegant simplicity the duties and rights of wife and husband, and even of children. The fact that he stressed the Islamic responsibilities helped cast away many of the cultural shackles that often imprison Muslims in less than pleasant marriages. If everyone took this course before they got married, they would truly appreciate their spouses all the greater, and they would be better Muslims for doing so, raising stronger families. This would then reflect itself in the state of our Ummah. I also enjoyed the wisdom with which he regarded divorce. A solution provided by Allah, so that no one becomes an oppressor....MashaAllah, beautiful!" - Sarah Elgazzar, Cambridge

"The course was simply amazing, it was a lot of information to take in but was definitely worthwhile. As for Dr Mohammed Akram Nadwi, words cannot serve justice for explaining how humble yet knowledgeable he is. Alhamdulillah I went with my whole family and intend to attend all of his future courses InshaAllah" - Rahee Ahmed, Law Student, Kent University

"The sincerity and piety of sheikh Akram Nadawi was a great source of inspiration for me. His great knowledge was beautifully expressed masha' Allah in a very simple way that touches everyone in the audience regardless of their marital status. I came along with a friend who is a new Muslim not intending to attend all sessions, but we ended up there all day. The emphasis on the importance of the family, how simple are Islamic rules, the distinction between our cultural heritage and the true message of Islam and his openness to answer all audience questions, in my opinion were the reasons behind the great success of the session yesterday. It was a great honour for me to attend yesterday's session and I thank Allah for giving me the unique chance to attend a session by a great a scholar to guide me through out my marriage-life." - Mona ElQazzaz, PhD Student, Cambridge University

This is an unmissable seminar for those married and those yet to get married - both old and young (including teenagers). Limited places available. Book your place today.

http://courses.meoc.org.uk/

Cambridge Islamic Sciences Seminars - Birmingham
Muslim Education & Outreach Cambridge (MEOC)

Join 200+ Blessed People this Weekend in London (+ Live Online)

2013-04-05T13:50:00.001-07:00

The Most Comprehensive Islamic Seminar

Join 200+ blessed students and the Shaykh in one of the most comprehensive Islamic seminars that you could attend in your life, inshaAllah. The Forty Hadith of Imam an-Nawawi is a blessed collection. The wisdom of the Imam is displayed in his choice of Hadith that covers every aspect of the Religion, from the rights of Allah to the rights of the creation; from the inner dimensions of worship to the outer dimensions; from the obligations to the supererogatory; from the world of the unseen to the physical world; from the sunnah to the bid'ah; from the purification of the heart to the purification of the body; from the love of humanity to the hatred of vice; from taqwa of Allah (God-conciousness) to good manners to humankind; from the intentions to the actions; from charity to brotherhood; from attaining goodness in this world to attaining goodness in the Hereafter.

"Everyone who desires and looks forward to the Hereafter must be familiar with these hadith because they cover the most important aspects of the religion and offer direction to all forms of obedience of Allaah. This is clear to anyone who ponders these hadith. I rely only upon Allaah and I entrust my affair only to Him. To Him is all Praise and Grace, from Him is Guidance and protection from error." - Imam An-Nawawi

This is the last opportunity to join this blessed seminar (still with a 20% online discount)....

Written Testimonials Video Testimonials

Cambridge Islamic Sciences Seminars LONDON Presents
Forty Hadith of Imam An-Nawawi with Ijazah
A unique opportunity to study this essential hadith collection with an extraordinary muhaddith and teacher of our time with Ijazah linking to The Prophet (SAW)

London Special Weekend Seminar with Live Worldwide Online Access

Teacher: Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi (Oxford)

Date: Saturday and Sunday 6-7 April 2013 Time: 9:30AM - 7:00PM

Venue: Edmonton Islamic Centre, London + Live Online Web Access

Registration: http://courses.meoc.org.uk

Features: Onsite accommodation for both brothers and sisters (if required) , crèche facilities, free whole-day parking and refreshments.

The Forty Hadith of Imam Nawawi is a classical and timeless collection of the most important traditions of the Prophet (SAW) giving the essence of Eeman and Islam. It has always been considered an essential text for every student of knowledge as the understanding of these ahadith is fundamental to the belief and practice of a Muslim. This special weekend seminar on the Forty Hadith provides a unique and unmissable opportunity to study this important collection in the ideal, traditional way - with the guidance of an extraordinary teacher, true scholar and Muhaddith (an expert of Hadith) of our time, who has devoted many years to the study and research of hadith. Every student will receive a signed certificate and Ijazah from Shaykh Akram for the Forty Hadith and hadith musalsal bil-awwaliyyah linking them to the Prophet (SAW).

Bonus Sessions: Brothers and sisters who stay the night will also benefit from the extended company of Shaykh Mohammad Akram Nadwi and hear some special advice on how to manage our time and balance our lives successfully between learning & implementing beneficial knowledge and meeting our other day-to-day needs.

Previous Posts
Hadith, Doubt and Orientalism - What is the Reality?
Be in the Company of the Prophet (SAW) this Weekend...
Learn The Forty Hadith Nawawi The Traditional Way With A Muhaddith and Gain Ijazah
Forty Hadith of Imam An-Nawawi with Ijazah - Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi - London & Online

Hadith, Doubt and Orientalism - What is the Reality?

2013-04-04T15:56:00.003-07:00

Doubt has been cast upon the corpus of Hadith by many orientalists as well as some (modernist) Muslims. It is not uncommon to hear that "the Hadith were only written down over 300 years after the death of the Prophet (SAW) so they are not reliable". Unfortunately, many well-intentioned Muslims also fall into this type of thinking because they have no real idea or understanding of the history of Hadith and the sophisticated methods of verifying and preserving Hadith - both in text and in meaning. The science of Hadith is truly one of the most advanced and highly developed sciences in the history of mankind. Yet many of us are confused because we are unaware of this science and we do not understand the technicalities of the subject.

"There is a reason why, when you read a very technical text, you don’t understand it. Even if most of the words used are words you are familiar with, even if the words are arranged in ways that are familiar to you, there are enough technical words in the text to make the matter of it incomprehensible. Those specialised, technical words do not connect with anything, they do not refer to anything, known to you in your world.If this technical text happens to be an instruction about what to do, or if it is an explanation of how something works so that you can use that thing properly, then somebody will have to explain any technical terms in the text. After that, there is a chance that you may follow the instruction correctly, or make the thing work properly. But if you have a teacher who both speaks and gives you a practical demonstration, the chance is much stronger that you will get the matter right" - Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi (From the Introduction to the Forty Hadith)

There is no doubt that the main reason why people cast doubt upon the Hadith is because they have learnt or heard things from improper sources. Even if one does not actually doubt the Hadith, they may have found themselves in situations where they could not defend the Hadith when it has been attacked. There are also situations where people may think some Hadith to be irrational when they are not. All these situations arise from a lack of correct understanding on the subject.

The seminar coming up this weekend is on the Forty Hadith of Imam an Nawawi. In addition to going through the fascinating details of the meaning and explanation of the entire collection of 42 Hadith, Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi, a Muhaddith of the highest calibre, will also be demonstrating the reality of misinformation and misunderstanding of Hadith in a practical way through selected examples from the Forty Hadith.

A unique and priceless opportunity to learn straight from a Muhaddith some of the most important Hadith of the Prophet (SAW), and to also gain a clear understanding of the amazing science behind the collection, preservation and study of Hadith. Only one day to go for this spiritually uplifting and intellectually liberating weekend seminar - please sign up immediately.

Cambridge Islamic Sciences Seminars LONDON Presents
Forty Hadith of Imam An-Nawawi with Ijazah
A unique opportunity to study this essential hadith collection with an extraordinary muhaddith and teacher of our time with Ijazah linking to The Prophet (SAW)

London Special Weekend Seminar with Live Worldwide Online Access

Teacher: Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi (Oxford)

Date: Saturday and Sunday 6-7 April 2013 Time: 9:30AM - 7:00PM

Venue: Edmonton Islamic Centre, London + Live Online Web Access

Registration: http://courses.meoc.org.uk

Features: Onsite accommodation for both brothers and sisters (if required) , crèche facilities, free whole-day parking and refreshments.

The Forty Hadith of Imam Nawawi is a classical and timeless collection of the most important traditions of the Prophet (SAW) giving the essence of Eeman and Islam. It has always been considered an essential text for every student of knowledge as the understanding of these ahadith is fundamental to the belief and practice of a Muslim. This special weekend seminar on the Forty Hadith provides a unique and unmissable opportunity to study this important collection in the ideal, traditional way - with the guidance of an extraordinary teacher, true scholar and Muhaddith (an expert of Hadith) of our time, who has devoted many years to the study and research of hadith. Every student will receive a signed certificate and Ijazah from Shaykh Akram for the Forty Hadith and hadith musalsal bil-awwaliyyah linking them to the Prophet (SAW).

Bonus Sessions: Brothers and sisters who stay the night will also benefit from the extended company of Shaykh Mohammad Akram Nadwi and hear some special advice on how to manage our time and balance our lives successfully between learning & implementing beneficial knowledge and meeting our other day-to-day needs.

Previous Posts

Be in the Company of the Prophet (SAW) this Weekend...
Learn The Forty Hadith Nawawi The Traditional Way With A Muhaddith and Gain Ijazah
Forty Hadith of Imam An-Nawawi with Ijazah - Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi - London & Online

Be in the Company of the Prophet (SAW) this Weekend...

2013-04-03T16:53:00.004-07:00

"In a famous hadith –the Companion Hanzalah says to God’s Messenger words to the effect: “When I am in your company, the hereafter is vivid to me as if I were seeing it. But then I return to my wife and children, and it fades away.” The Prophet does not criticise Hanzala for this weakness of attention. Rather, he says, this loss of intensity is normal. He says “There is a time for this, and there is a time for this”. This hadith is a reminder of another important dimension and major benefit of hadith study: reading and reflecting upon the hadith, alone or in small groups, helps us to imagine being in the company of the Prophet, of hearing his speech, of being in the presence of someone who has full certainty of God and the hereafter. Partly for the reason that Hanzala gives – other preoccupations, distractions -- most people are not able to read hadith all the time. Most of us are not scholars of hadith. But our need for hadith is not the less for that. To make it easier for people to benefit from hadith, a convention became established among Muslim scholars of compiling short selections from the hadith. There are many kinds of such selections; one of the most popular kinds is the Forty Hadith, of which the most famous among Muslims is Imam Nawawi’s Forty Hadith." - Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi (From the Introduction to the Forty Hadith Seminar)

Cambridge Islamic Sciences Seminars LONDON Presents
Forty Hadith of Imam An-Nawawi with Ijazah
A unique opportunity to study this essential hadith collection with an extraordinary muhaddith and teacher of our time with Ijazah linking to The Prophet (SAW)

London Special Weekend Seminar with Live Worldwide Online Access

Teacher: Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi (Oxford)

Date: Saturday and Sunday 6-7 April 2013 Time: 9:30AM - 7:00PM

Venue: Edmonton Islamic Centre, London + Live Online Web Access

Registration: http://courses.meoc.org.uk

Features: Onsite accommodation for both brothers and sisters (if required) , crèche facilities, free whole-day parking and refreshments.

The Forty Hadith of Imam Nawawi is a classical and timeless collection of the most important traditions of the Prophet (SAW) giving the essence of Eeman and Islam. It has always been considered an essential text for every student of knowledge as the understanding of these ahadith is fundamental to the belief and practice of a Muslim. This special weekend seminar on the Forty Hadith provides a unique and unmissable opportunity to study this important collection in the ideal, traditional way - with the guidance of an extraordinary teacher, true scholar and Muhaddith (an expert of Hadith) of our time, who has devoted many years to the study and research of hadith. Every student will receive a signed certificate and Ijazah from Shaykh Akram for the Forty Hadith and hadith musalsal bil-awwaliyyah linking them to the Prophet (SAW).

Bonus Sessions: Brothers and sisters who stay the night will also benefit from the extended company of Shaykh Mohammad Akram Nadwi and hear some special advice on how to manage our time and balance our lives successfully between learning & implementing beneficial knowledge and meeting our other day-to-day needs.

Learn The Forty Hadith Nawawi The Traditional Way With A Muhaddith and Gain Ijazah

2013-03-27T07:20:00.000-07:00

This is a rare opportunity to learn the Forty Hadith of Imam An-Nawawi in a traditional way with a real muhaddith (expert of Hadith). Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi is among the very few living scholars in the world who have the shortest chains (isnad) to many of the books of Hadith. Therefore to be in his company, to benefit from his knowledge, to be enlightened by his wisdom and to be linked to the the Prophet (SAW) through him is such a huge blessing and an opportunity that cannot be missed.

"Of all the scholars I have had the opportunity to study with, I have found Shaikh Akram Nadwi to be the closest, in knowledge, manners and teaching, to how I would imagine some of the great Hadith scholars of the past would have been. He has a vast knowledge of Qur'an, Hadith and Fiqh, a down-to-earth, humble, approachable style, and great teaching ability. His classes are not just beneficial from a learning perspective, but also to marvel at the awe-inspiring wealth of knowledge of our scholars masha Allah. His 57 volume work going through the biographies of some 8,500 women scholars of Hadith is a monumental endeavour. The mere fact of its existence can be a major talking point in discussion with Muslims and non-Muslims, and is almost a stand-alone proof of Islam's unparalleled wealth of female scholarship." - Dr Omar Mahroo, Cambridge

“There are not many people that you meet and in the first hour of sitting with them you decide you love them for the sake of Allah, but for me that was the case one week ago, when I had the honour of sitting in on a course by Shaykh Akram Nadwi. The next week I was with him again and by no means did he cease to amaze me any less. When someone like Shaykh Akram speaks and explains things the way he does, you know that anyone who is not benefiting from him will look back in 10 years and think, man I totally lost out there. You may know a topic inside out but because of the depth of his knowledge and more importantly his understanding, when he explains something you are thrown back by how he explained it in a way you never heard it before. MashaAllah. These courses are essential for every Muslim. If people are sincere about seeking knowledge that will connect them to their Creator, Allah (SWT), then they will take full advantage as they will not only help one understand their purpose in life in a deeper and more meaningful way but they will also be in a strong position to articulate Islam to the people around them in a way that makes sense and appeals the the hearts and minds.” - Tariq Shaekh, London

Shaykh Akram Nadwi has given a short video introduction for what he will be covering in the Forty Hadith Seminar. Please click on the image above to play.

Please sign up for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity now with a 30% early bird discount.

Cambridge Islamic Sciences Seminars LONDON Presents
Forty Hadith of Imam An-Nawawi with Ijazah
A unique opportunity to study this essential hadith collection with an extraordinary muhaddith and teacher of our time with Ijazah linking to The Prophet (SAW)

London Special Weekend Residential Seminar with Live Worldwide Online Access

Teacher: Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi (Oxford)

Date: Saturday and Sunday 6-7 April 2013 Time: 9:30AM - 7:00PM

Venue: Edmonton Islamic Centre, London + Live Online Web Access

Registration: http://courses.meoc.org.uk

30% Early Bird Discount - Promotion Code: EARLYBIRD30POFF

Features: Course notes, onsite accommodation for both brothers and sisters, crèche facilities, free whole-day parking and refreshments.

The Forty Hadith of Imam Nawawi is a classical and timeless collection of the most important traditions of the Prophet (SAW) giving the essence of Eeman and Islam. It has always been considered an essential text for every student of knowledge as the understanding of these ahadith is fundamental to the belief and practice of a Muslim. This special weekend seminar on the Forty Hadith provides a unique and unmissable opportunity to study this important collection in the ideal, traditional way - with the guidance of an extraordinary teacher, true scholar and Muhaddith (an expert of Hadith) of our time, who has devoted many years to the study and research of hadith. Every student will receive a signed certificate and Ijazah from Shaykh Akram for the Forty Hadith and hadith musalsal bil-awwaliyyah linking them to the Prophet (SAW).

Bonus Sessions: Brothers and sisters who stay the night will also benefit from the extended company of Shaykh Mohammad Akram Nadwi and hear some special advice on how to manage our time and balance our lives successfully between learning & implementing beneficial knowledge and meeting our other day-to-day needs.

The Relevance of Jesus Christ in The Life of A Muslim

2013-03-23T23:45:00.000-07:00

"The Prophets Ibrahim, Nuh, Salih, Hud and Muhammad (SAW) came in a certain context. They came to people who were non-believers and polytheists. It was a struggle between eeman (belief) and kufr (disbelief); between tawheed (monotheism) and shirk (polytheism). However the Prophets Zakariyyah, Yahya and 'Eesa (AS) came in a different context. They came to a people who already had guidance but they were indifferent to it. This is very similar to the context of Muslims today. Therefore the life and message of Jesus Christ is very relevant for us" - Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi

Join us today (Sunday) for this rare seminar on Jesus Christ (PBUH) in Cambridge completely free of charge or via live online video from any city.

Jesus Christ in Islam
The Epitome of Spirituality & Saviour of Humanity

By Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi

Date: Sunday 24th March 2013 Time: 9:30AM - 6:00PM

Venue: Cambridge Islamic Centre - Devonshire Road
4 Devonshire Road (Off Mill Road)
Cambridge CB1 2BH Parking: Free On-Street Parking

Special Offer: FREE ENTRY Promotion Code: SPECIALOFFER

ONLY A FEW MORE PLACES AVAILABLE.

WORLDWIDE LIVE ONLINE ACCESS

Registration: http://courses.meoc.org.uk/#jesus-seminar

English Defence League (EDL) in Makkah?

2013-03-20T13:18:00.003-07:00

This statement may come as a surprise for many but the situation in Makkah at the time of the Prophet (SAW) was far worse than any confrontation the EDL may have had with the Prophet (SAW) and the his companions in Makkah. The Prophet (SAW) had to deal with the extremely hostile "Quraysh Defence League" (QDL) which undertook a ruthless propaganda campaign against the Prophet (SAW), his message and the believers. The situation today in the UK is not at all similar to how it was in Makkah. However there are elements within the society who seem to be inspired by the QDL. One such group is the English Defence League which appears to have taken the hatred of Islam as the core of its ideology. Others include new-atheist and some evangelical groups.

No matter how persistent the QDL was, it failed to distract and derail the mission of the believers. On the contrary, they went into oblivion. But today, even the slightest appearance or propaganda from the EDL seems to really distract us. This is not surprising at all as the early believers followed the guidance that was sent by Allah (SWT) to deal with the situation. Whereas we have no clue whatsoever whether that guidance even exists let alone how we can apply that guidance. Then we look for inspiration elsewhere like any other community would do. This is when we need stop and think.

Surah Al-Muzzammil is an early Makkan surah revealed to the Prophet (SAW) to give strength to his mission. One of the main aspects of this surah is how to deal with hostile elements within the society.

<<You [Prophet], enfolded in your cloak! Stay up throughout the night, all but a small part of it, half, or a little less, or a little more; recite the Qur'an slowly and distinctly: We shall send a momentous message down to you. Night prayer makes a deeper impression and sharpens words–– you are kept busy for long periods of the day–– so celebrate the name of your Lord and devote yourself wholeheartedly to Him. He is Lord of the east and west, there is no god but Him, so take Him as your Protector, patiently endure what they say, ignore them politely, and leave to Me those who deny the truth and live in luxury. Bear with them for a little while.>> [Surah Al-Muzzammil 73:1-11]

There is such deep meaning and guidance in this surah for every Muslim society and individual on how to conduct themselves in the face of opposition and hostility. The seminar coming up on Saturday by Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi is a must for every one of us living in this society.

Surah Al-Muzzammil (The Enfolded)
The Blueprint For Every Muslim
The Magnificent Journey Seminar Series

By Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi (Oxford)

Date: Saturday 23rd March 2013 Time: 9:30AM - 6:00PM

Venue: Cambridge University and Live Online Web Access

Registration: http://courses.meoc.org.uk

Testimonials

Video Testimonials

"Jazakumullahu khayran. I can't thank you enough for the opportunity. I am so impressed by the Sheikh, subhanallah, mashaAllah. A very rare example of tradition fused with awareness of the environment and reality while not compromising God consciousness. If only there were more like him. Questions, I'm so glad we can ask them even if it's not about the sura. Yes, how else are we to learn from his wisdom and experience if we don't ask? The issues facing Muslims in the West are so many and so confusing and I just love the fact that he does not have an inferiority complex about Islam. It's really sad to see psychologically defeated scholars start throwing away tradition in the name of progress and fitting in. Sheikh Akram Nadwi gives you the sense that the real life is in the hereafter so don't have to get so tied up with the philosophies and controversies that sometimes take away our attention from the real purpose. The onus is on us, are we being pious?" - Aisha Barkatulla, Cambridge

http://courses.meoc.org.uk << Click Here To Register

Previous Posts
Surah Al-Muzzammil - "The Ultimate Da'wah Training Course"

Other Upcoming MEOC Seminars

Sunday 24th March (Cambridge) - FREE EVENT
Jesus Christ - The Epitome of Spirituality & Saviour of Humanity

Saturday & Sunday 6/7 April (London)
Forty Hadith of Imam Nawawi

Saturday 13th April (Birmingham)
Fiqh of Love - Marriage and Family in Islam

Surah Al-Muzzammil - "The Ultimate Da'wah Training Course"

2013-03-20T11:52:00.002-07:00

There are so many da'wah training courses and workshops conducted across the UK. Although they may have some benefit, almost all of them focus on very superficial things such as methods, techniques and arguments. Therefore, the results we see are also superficial with no real substance. If these training courses and workshops are of so little use and even harmful, then how does one train to be a da'i or caller to Islam?

"The duty of da`wah is a high and difficult obligation. It should not be undertaken carelessly, but after the most careful preparation. The da`i must be knowledgeable about the religion, be regular and comfortable in the practice of it, and develop a strong relation with God. He or she must make time to be still, as in solitary prayer at night, away from the day’s business (al-Muzzammil), so that he or she can receive and gather the inward strength to believe profoundly and to speak from that profound belief. Stillness is necessary whenever you contemplate any serious, difficult task; it allows you to gather your forces so that you become clear about your resolve to perform that difficult task. After this stillness and being with God and praying to Him, the da`i is better prepared to ‘arise and warn’ (al-Mudaththir)." - Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi

Surah Al-Muzzammil teaches us how Allah (SWT) Himself trained His chosen Messenger - Muhammad (SAW) - to be the best da'i the world has ever seen. The focus of this teaching is entirely different - it is deep, profound and highly spiritual. It operates on an entirely different plane such that Allah (SWT) becomes his or her guide in every step that they take.

<<So have fear (taqwa) of Allah; and Allah will teach you.>> [Qur'an 2:282]

Surah Al-Muzzammil is one of the earliest Surahs to be revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) in preparation for the great mission that was ahead of him. This is the same preparation that we need to be callers to Islam. Why do we not take the lesson?

Surah Al-Muzzammil (The Enfolded)
The Blueprint For Every Muslim
The Magnificent Journey Seminar Series

By Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi (Oxford)

Date: Saturday 23rd March 2013 Time: 9:30AM - 6:00PM

Venue: Cambridge University and Live Online Web Access

Registration: http://courses.meoc.org.uk

Two Amazing Seminars This Weekend (Including A Free Seminar)

2013-03-19T04:07:00.001-07:00

Saturday 23rd March 2013

Surah Al-Muzzammil (The Enfolded)
The Blueprint For Every Muslim
The Magnificent Journey Seminar Series

By Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi (Oxford)

Date: Saturday 23rd March 2013 Time: 9:30AM - 6:00PM

Venue: Cambridge University and Live Online Web Access

Registration: http://courses.meoc.org.uk

Surah Al-Muzzammil is a very special Surah for the Messenger (SAW) and all those who are following in his footsteps. In this Surah the Prophet (SAW) is prepared by his Lord to carry the weighty message of Allah (SWT). The Prophet (SAW) is urged to stay up in prayer during the night to receive strength, courage and wisdom to deliver the message during the long and busy periods of the day. In addition to that the Prophet (SAW) is urged to "have patience with what they (the disbelievers) say, and leave them with noble (dignity)". This Surah gives the blueprint for the caller to Islam (Da’ee) that is applicable to every time and place.

Sunday 24th March 2013 (FREE ENTRY)

Jesus Christ in Islam
The Epitome of Spirituality & Saviour of Humanity

By Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi

Date: Sunday 24th March 2013 Time: 9:30AM - 6:00PM

Venue: Cambridge Islamic Centre - Devonshire Road
4 Devonshire Road (Off Mill Road)
Cambridge CB1 2BH Parking: Free On-Street Parking

Special Offer: FREE ENTRY & REDUCED ONLINE ACCESS TICKET

Promotion Code: SPECIALOFFER

The message of all Prophets and Messengers is one and the same - "worship Allah who is your Rabb" - and they all came to save the humanity from the misery of this world and the destruction of the Hereafter. Jesus is no different. This seminar addresses the special feature of Jesus (PBUH) in bringing spirituality and meaning to the materialistic society and turning people's attention towards the true servitude and love of Allah (SWT).

Registration: http://courses.meoc.org.uk/#jesus-seminar

Forty Hadith of Imam An-Nawawi with Ijazah - Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi - London & Online

2013-03-01T08:02:00.001-08:00

Forty Hadith of Imam An-Nawawi
Including Ijazah from a Muhaddith

A unique opportunity to study this essential hadith collection with an extraordinary muhaddith and teacher of our time with Ijazah linking to The Prophet (SAW)

London Special Weekend Seminar with Live Worldwide Online Access

Teacher: Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi (Oxford)

Date: Saturday and Sunday 6-7 April 2013 Time: 9:30AM - 7:00PM

Venue: Edmonton Islamic Centre, London + Live Online Web Access

Registration: http://courses.meoc.org.uk/#40hadith-seminar

Early Bird Discount: 30% Code: EARLYBIRD30POFF Save: £18/ticket

Special Online Discount: 20% Code: SPECIAL20POFF Save: £12/ticket

Features: Onsite accommodation for both brothers and sisters (if required), crèche facilities, free whole-day parking and refreshments.

The Forty Hadith of Imam Nawawi is a classical and timeless collection of the most important traditions of the Prophet (SAW) giving the essence of Eeman and Islam. It has always been considered an essential text for every student of knowledge as the understanding of these ahadith is fundamental to the belief and practice of a Muslim. This special weekend seminar on the Forty Hadith provides a unique and unmissable opportunity to study this important collection in the ideal, traditional way - with the guidance of an extraordinary teacher, true scholar and Muhaddith (an expert of Hadith) of our time, who has devoted many years to the study and research of hadith. Every student will receive a signed certificate and Ijaazah from Shaykh Akram for the Forty Hadith and hadith musalsal bil-awwaliyyah linking them to the Prophet (SAW).

Bonus: Those who stay over would be able to enjoy the company of Shaykh Mohammad Akram Nadwi with some special advice on how to manage our time and balance our life between learning beneficial knowledge and managing our daily activities.

Amazing Line Up Of MEOC Seminars

2013-02-26T19:11:00.001-08:00

The upcoming MEOC seminars in March and April by Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi are as follows:

1. Saturday 9th March, London (Women-Only)

What Every Muslim Woman Must Know

Fiqh pertaining to Muslim women including extensive question and answer session and special session on Female Scholarship in Islam.

2. Saturday 23rd March, Cambridge + Online

Surah Al-Muzzammil - The Blueprint For The Caller To Islam
The Magnificent Journey Seminar Series

Surah Al-Muzzammil is a very special Surah for the Messenger (SAW) and all those who are following in his footsteps. In this Surah the Prophet (SAW) is prepared by his Lord to carry the weighty message of Allah (SWT). The Prophet (SAW) is urged to stay up in prayer during the night to receive strength, courage and wisdom to deliver the message during the long and busy periods of the day. In addition to that the Prophet (SAW) is urged to "have patience with what they (the disbelievers) say, and leave them with noble (dignity)". This Surah gives the blueprint for the caller to Islam (Da’ee) that is applicable to every time and place.

3. Sunday 24th March, Cambridge + Online

Jesus Christ in Islam - The Epitome of Spirituality and Saviour of Humanity

The message of all Prophets and Messengers is one and the same - "worship Allah who is your Rabb" - and they all came to save the humanity from the misery of this world and the destruction of the Hereafter. Jesus is no different. This seminar addresses the special feature of Jesus (PBUH) in bringing spirituality and meaning to the materialistic society and turning people's attention towards the true servitude and love of Allah (SWT).

4. Saturday and Sunday 6-7 April, London + Online

Forty Hadith of Imam An-Nawawi - The Pearls of The Prophet (SAW) - Including 'Ijaazah

The Forty Hadith of Imam Nawawi is a classical and timeless collection of the most important traditions of the Prophet (SAW) giving the essence of Eeman and Islam. It has always been considered an essential text for every student of knowledge as the understanding of these ahadith is fundamental to the belief and practice of a Muslim. This special weekend seminar on the Forty Hadith provides a unique and unmissable opportunity to study this important collection in the ideal, traditional way - with the guidance of an extraordinary teacher, true scholar and Muhaddith (an expert of Hadith) of our time, who has devoted many years to the study and research of hadith. Every student will receive a signed certificate and Ijaazah from Shaykh Akram for the Forty Hadith and hadith musalsal bil-awwaliyyah linking them to the Prophet (SAW).

5. Saturday 20th April, Cambridge + Online

Surah Al-Mudaththir - Warning for The Humanity
The Magnificent Journey Seminar Series

For more information, registration and videos, please visit the "Cambridge" and "London" pages.

"The Magnificent Journey continues... Today's seminar was yet another awesome seminar in the series with exceptional crowd and amazing insights from Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi. This is truly a historic seminar series on the explanation of The Quran and is redefining our understanding and relationship with the Book of ALLAH. The emphasise of Dr Nadwi on establishing our connection with ALLAH and utilising the space given to us for recognising one God, is the key highlight of these seminars. Each seminar begins by strongly negating the wrong practises which have been introduced in the true teachings of worshipping one ALLAH and then builds on it by inviting us to ponder on the sings of ALLAH and get closer to our Rabb. Truly inspiring series, I would strongly recommend everybody including men, women and families to attend the Magnificent Journey Seminars as these are life changing and truly install this urge of loving the Book of ALLAH. The subtle nuances of the language which make the Qur'an such a powerful speech are beautifully explained by Dr Akram Nadwi in a nice balanced way keeping the things simple and interesting at the same time. His tremendous scholarships of Hadith literature and exceptional skills of Arabic language make this series a unique experience and a historic event in the city of Cambridge." - Awais Ahmed Awan, Cambridge

THE DARK & MYSTERIOUS WORLD OF JINN & MAGIC - EXPOSED!

2013-02-19T15:18:00.004-08:00

For the very first time in the English language, Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi is giving a detailed and scholarly exposition of the world of Jinn through Surah Al-Jinn, the Seerah and his own experience in a way that has not been done before. Sadly, when it comes to Jinn (spirits and demons), information and advice is readily accepted from all sorts of people, including people who have no understanding whatsoever of the Qur'an. However, the world of Jinn is not a matter for common people to claim to be experts of or give any specific advice on.

The Jinn are part of the unseen and we only know about them what Allah (SWT) and His Messenger (SAW) have told us. Therefore the only qualified people who can explain about Jinn are the people who have inherited the legacy of the Qur'an and the Sunnah left by Prophet Muhammad (SAW). They are the knowledgeable and righteous scholars of Islam.

“There are not many people that you meet and in the first hour of sitting with them you decide you love them for the sake of Allah, but for me that was the case one week ago, when I had the honour of sitting in on a course by Shaykh Akram Nadwi. The next week I was with him again and by no means did he cease to amaze me any less. When someone like Shaykh Akram speaks and explains things the way he does, you know that anyone who is not benefiting from him will look back in 10 years and think, man I totally lost out there. You may know a topic inside out but because of the depth of his knowledge and more importantly his understanding, when he explains something you are thrown back by how he explained it in a way you never heard it before. MashaAllah. These courses are essential for every Muslim. If people are sincere about seeking knowledge that will connect them to their Creator, Allah (SWT), then they will take full advantage as they will not only help one understand their purpose in life in a deeper and more meaningful way but they will also be in a strong position to articulate Islam to the people around them in a way that makes sense and appeals the the hearts and minds.” - Tariq Shaekh, iERA, London

This is your unmissable opportunity to study the reality of the world of Jinn with one of the foremost scholars and thinkers of the Western world today.

"I recently attended the Tafsir of Surah Nuh. Whilst I had heard much about Shaykh Akram, this was my first class with him. The first thing that you cannot help but appreciate is how the Shaykh hooks you with his connection to knowledge, in a pure sense, there was no need to employ any speaking tactics to keep the attendees engrossed. The Shaykh, made every point relevant, to connect the text with our lives today and our response to get closer to our Creator. Indeed the Shaykh mentioned countless gems that he mentioned offhand but when contemplated on, really struck a chord in the heart. It was also great that the Shaykh was very open to questions, however sensitive, and tackled them head on, without compromising the principles of our faith, exemplifying that Allah azza wa jal has not only blessed him with knowledge, but also wisdom. I don't say this lightly, I genuinely believe, if you have the opportunity to study with the Shaykh, and you don't take it, then you have missed out on tasting the fruits of the knowledge of the Scholarship of our time and land" - Umer Suleman, South London

Reserve your seat today - only 4 days to go!

Surah Al-Jinn
The Mysterious World of Spirits & Demons

The Magnificent Journey

An Amazing Journey Through The Last Two Parts (Juz' Tabaarak and Juz' 'Amma) of the Qur'an, From Surah Al-Mulk to Surah An-Naas, by one of the foremost Islamic Scholars and Thinkers of the Western World today.

By Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi (Oxford)

Date: Saturday 23rd February 2013     Time: 10AM - 6PM

Venue: Cambridge University and Live Online Web Access

http://courses.meoc.org.uk   << Click Here To Register

Written Testimonials: http://courses.meoc.org.uk/p/testimonials.html

"Jazakumullahu khayran. I can't thank you enough for the opportunity. I am so impressed by the Sheikh, subhanallah, mashaAllah. A very rare example of tradition fused with awareness of the environment and reality while not compromising God consciousness. If only there were more like him. Questions, I'm so glad we can ask them even if it's not about the sura. Yes, how else are we to learn from his wisdom and experience if we don't ask? The issues facing Muslims in the West are so many and so confusing and I just love the fact that he does not have an inferiority complex about Islam. It's really sad to see psychologically defeated scholars start throwing away tradition in the name of progress and fitting in. Sheikh Akram Nadwi gives you the sense that the real life is in the hereafter so don't have to get so tied up with the philosophies and controversies that sometimes take away our attention from the real purpose. The onus is on us, are we being pious?" - Aisha Barkatullah, Cambridge

Video Testimonials: http://courses.meoc.org.uk/p/blog-page.html



Previous Posts
Jinn, Black Magic and Exorcism - What Is The Reality?
Surah Al-Jinn - The Mysterious World of Spirits & Demons

Jinn, Black Magic and Exorcism - What Is The Reality?

2013-02-11T07:59:00.002-08:00

<<On the day He gathers everyone together [saying], ‘Company of jinn! You have seduced a great many humans,’ their adherents among mankind will say, ‘Lord, we have profited from one another, but now we have reached the appointed time You decreed for us.’>> [Qur'an 6:128]

<<We sent a group of jinn to you [Prophet] to listen to the Qur 'an. When they heard it, they said to one another, ‘Be quiet!’ Then when it was finished they turned to their community and gave them warning.>> [Qur'an 46:29]

<<Men have sought refuge with the jinn in the past, but they only misguided them further.>> [Qur'an 72:6]

There are so many stories of "Jinn Possession", "Black Magic" and "Exorcism" in the Muslim communities. However very few know what the reality of these situations are. Very often gullible people are exploited for profit by charlatans who pretend to be religious. But what is even more disturbing is to see some religious people carrying strange beliefs about the Jinn because of ignorance, here-say, legends, tradition, culture and "experience".

No doubt there are so many confusing questions about the Jinn. But who do we turn to for answers? Do we go to "professional exorcists" or to knowledgeable and pious Islamic scholars who are the inheritors of Prophets and Messengers?

Allah (SWT) revealed Surah Al-Jinn to the Prophet (SAW) as guidance on this matter. Therefore the forthcoming seminar on Surah Al-Jinn by Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi is an unmissable seminar for those wanting real answers about the Jinn.

Surah Al-Jinn - The Mysterious World of Spirits & Demons

The Magnificent Journey

An Amazing Journey Through The Last Two Parts (Juz' Tabaarak and Juz' 'Amma) of the Qur'an, From Surah Al-Mulk to Surah An-Naas, by one of the foremost Islamic Scholars and Thinkers of the Western World today

By Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi (Oxford)

Date: Saturday 23rd February 2013 Time: 10AM - 6PM

Venue: Cambridge University and Live Online Web Access

http://courses.meoc.org.uk << Click Here To Register

Written Testimonials: http://courses.meoc.org.uk/p/testimonials.html

"Of all the scholars I have had the opportunity to study with, I have found Shaikh Akram Nadwi to be the closest, in knowledge, manners and teaching, to how I would imagine some of the great Hadith scholars of the past would have been. He has a vast knowledge of Qur'an, Hadith and Fiqh, a down-to-earth, humble, approachable style, and great teaching ability. His classes are not just beneficial from a learning perspective, but also to marvel at the awe-inspiring wealth of knowledge of our scholars masha Allah. His 57 volume work going through the biographies of some 8,500 women scholars of Hadith is a monumental endeavour. The mere fact of its existence can be a major talking point in discussion with Muslims and non-Muslims, and is almost a stand-alone proof of Islam's unparalleled wealth of female scholarship." - Dr Omar Mahroo, Cambridge/London

"I recently attended the Tafsir of Surah Nuh. Whilst I had heard much about Shaykh Akram, this was my first class with him. The first thing that you cannot help but appreciate is how the Shaykh hooks you with his connection to knowledge, in a pure sense, there was no need to employ any speaking tactics to keep the attendees engrossed. The Shaykh, made every point relevant, to connect the text with our lives today and our response to get closer to our Creator. Indeed the Shaykh mentioned countless gems that he mentioned offhand but when contemplated on, really struck a chord in the heart. It was also great that the Shaykh was very open to questions, however sensitive, and tackled them head on, without compromising the principles of our faith, exemplifying that Allah azza wa jal has not only blessed him with knowledge, but also wisdom. I don't say this lightly, I genuinely believe, if you have the opportunity to study with the Shaykh, and you don't take it, then you have missed out on tasting the fruits of the knowledge of the Scholarship of our time and land" - Umer Suleman, South London

"Jazakumullahu khayran. I can't thank you enough for the opportunity. I am so impressed by the Sheikh, subhanallah, mashaAllah. A very rare example of tradition fused with awareness of the environment and reality while not compromising God consciousness. If only there were more like him. Questions, I'm so glad we can ask them even if it's not about the sura. Yes, how else are we to learn from his wisdom and experience if we don't ask? The issues facing Muslims in the West are so many and so confusing and I just love the fact that he does not have an inferiority complex about Islam. It's really sad to see psychologically defeated scholars start throwing away tradition in the name of progress and fitting in. Sheikh Akram Nadwi gives you the sense that the real life is in the hereafter so don't have to get so tied up with the philosophies and controversies that sometimes take away our attention from the real purpose. The onus is on us, are we being pious?" - Aisha Barkatullah, Cambridge

Video Testimonials: http://courses.meoc.org.uk/p/blog-page.html

http://courses.meoc.org.uk << Click Here To Register

Previous Posts

Surah Al-Jinn - The Mysterious World of Spirits & Demons

2013-01-29T15:44:00.005-08:00

Surah Al-Jinn - The Mysterious World of Spirits & Demons

The Magnificent Journey

An Amazing Journey Through The Last Two Parts (Juzz Tabaarak and Juzz 'Amma) of the Qur'an, From Surah Al-Mulk to Surah An-Naas, by one of the foremost Islamic Scholars and Thinkers of the Western World today

By Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi (Oxford University)

Date: Saturday 23rd February 2013 Time: 10AM - 6PM

Venue: Cambridge University and Live Online Web Access

http://courses.meoc.org.uk << Click Here To Register

Written Testimonials: http://courses.meoc.org.uk/p/testimonials.html

"Jazakumullahu khayran. I can't thank you enough for the opportunity. I am so impressed by the Sheikh, subhanallah, mashaAllah. A very rare example of tradition fused with awareness of the environment and reality while not compromising God consciousness. If only there were more like him.

Questions, I'm so glad we can ask them even if it's not about the sura. Yes, how else are we to learn from his wisdom and experience if we don't ask? The issues facing Muslims in the West are so many and so confusing and I just love the fact that he does not have an inferiority complex about Islam. It's really sad to see psychologically defeated scholars start throwing away tradition in the name of progress and fitting in. Sheikh Akram Nadwi gives you the sense that the real life is in the hereafter so don't have to get so tied up with the philosophies and controversies that sometimes take away our attention from the real purpose. The onus is on us, are we being pious?" - Aisha Barkatullah, Cambridge

The (Real) Origin of Species by Nuh (AS) - Not Darwin!

2013-01-23T19:29:00.005-08:00

<<I (Noah) said, “Ask forgiveness of your Lord: He is ever forgiving. He will send down abundant rain from the sky for you; He will give you wealth and children; He will provide you with gardens and rivers. What is the matter with you? Why will you not fear God’s majesty, when He has created you stage by stage? Have you ever wondered how God created seven heavens, one above the other, placed the moon as a light in them and the sun as a lamp, how God made you spring forth from the earth like a plant, how He will return you into it and then bring you out again, and how He has spread the Earth out for you to walk along its spacious paths?”>> [Surah Nuh 71:10-20]

Reflecting on some parts of this passage, Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi comments as follows:

"Theme #6 - Man is created in stages. It is of no importance for the religious life what these stages refer to precisely, whether it is slow change over long eons of time, or abrupt shifts in some evolutionary process, as those who believe in evolution claim. For the religious life what is of importance is that the coming-to-be of a human being is a process through time, through experience , history, engagement with the natural and human world into which the individual is born and where he matures and, eventually, dies. The coming-to-be of a person is through time, through the effort of living and learning, of being nurtured and nurturing; it is a process of coming to know and experience, of awakening to the importance of being human, and the realisation that death is a stage, as birth was, as maturing was, as adulthood was and senility. The being created in stages means being created in a movement that is directed from one moment on to the next, from here to hereafter. Because this being created in stages is by God, it is a sign also of the minute, subtle and particular care that He has invested in His creation. Creation is not a careless thing, a matter of no importance, a meaningless repetition like mass-produced goods. Life is not to be wasted. For every life, its time is irreplaceable. No stage is permanent; that is the meaning of “stage”. We are always moved on within this world. (Death is a break, marked by “thumma”. What comes after death follows directly, as marked by “wa”.)" - Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi on Surah Nuh (Seminar Outline Notes)

From time to time, philosophers and scientists have put forward propositions and theories with regards to the origins of species - the most significant being On The Origin of Species by Charles Darwin published in 1859. Although Darwin claimed that it was purely scientific in nature, his theory has had enormous idealogical impact on religious, cultural, social, political and economic spheres. [You can read the article titled "Reflections on The Theory of Evolution as A Cultural Dogma" by Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi attached to this email]. Sadly Muslims have also been affected by this. Another important point that many of us don't realise is that no matter how good a theory seems the inferences made by that theory are based on Inductive Reasoning which by definition is probabilistic and can never be certain even if all the premises are true. So these theories can never be a source of belief. At best they are useful for understanding the natural world.

"Now a scientific theory is not, or should not be promoted as, a matter susceptible to believing or not believing it. Ideally, a scientific theory is a tool of human thought which helps us to perceive, understand and explain elements and features of the natural world (including our bodily selves) that, otherwise, we could not even perceive clearly, let alone understand or explain. Like any tool a theory does its job for a while, and then is re-designed or an altogether different theory does the job more efficiently, more elegantly, more comprehensively. A theory can be of use, for scientific purposes, if it accurately explains something in part, or in some aspect of it, even if, in respect of other aspects of the same thing, it is useless, inaccurate, and leads to a dead end. The worth of a scientific theory, ideally, is dependent on its capacity to understand and explain the natural world in a way that opens up reality to continued effort to understand and explain it."- Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi on Evolution (full article attached)

Therefore the real origin of species is what is explained by the Prophets and Messengers of Allah (SWT). Their explanations are deep and meaningful - not superficial like the scientific theories and explanations - they connect the origin to the purpose, the end and to what comes after - "... how God made you spring forth from the earth like a plant, how He will return you into it and then bring you out again". They speak based on revelation, certainty and truth - not assumptions, inferences, conjecture, speculation and induction, like the scientists and philosophers.

<<Most of them follow nothing but assumptions, but assumptions can be of no value at all against the Truth: God is well aware of what they do.>> [Qur’an 10:36]

<<If you obeyed most of those on earth, they would lead you away from the path of God. They follow nothing but speculation; they are merely guessing. Your Lord knows best who strays from His path and who is rightly guided.>> [Qur'an 6:116-117]

The seminar coming up this Saturday on Surah Nuh is an essential opportunity to not only understand our origins but moreover, our real purpose and our end as well. This life-changing seminar is taught by one of the foremost scholars and thinkers of the Western world today - Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi of Oxford University.

Surah Nuh - The Struggle of The Prophets

The Magnificent Journey

An Amazing Journey Through The Last Two Parts (Juzz Tabaarak and Juzz 'Amma) of the Qur'an, From Surah Al-Mulk to Surah An-Naas, by one of the foremost Islamic Scholars and Thinkers of the Western World today

By Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi (Oxford University)

Date: Saturday 26th January 2013 Time: 10AM - 6PM

Venue: Cambridge University and Live Online Web Access

http://courses.meoc.org.uk << Click Here To Register

Written Testimonials: http://courses.meoc.org.uk/p/testimonials.html

"I want to thank your organisation for arranging these series of lectures by Dr Nadwi. I have attended two of these lectures and have found them immensely enlightening. Dr Nadwi is a rare scholar of our times and although he is knowledgeable enough to talk at length on issues of philosophy, literacy or poetry, he is always keen to emphasise the practical implications of his teachings - that Islam in essence is a religion to be practiced with real actions and not confined to theory written in textbooks. MEOC has done an excellent job in the way they have taken care of all the details required of organising such events. I pray that Allah rewards all those involved in all aspects of these courses." - Dr Atiqul Baree, Portsmouth

"The course by Shaykh Nadwi lived up to its billing and the course splendidly drove home just how crucial and relevant lessons from Ibrahim’s (as) life are to us today. Ibrahim's (as) life is not covered enough in Muslim circles or public discourse, which made the course very interesting. The stories of Ibrahim (as) particularly that of him and his two sons Ismail and Ishaq (as) are endlessly rich and fruitful and understanding them will go a long way in helping us make some sense of our reality. Shaykh Nadwi mashAllah demonstrated in-depth knowledge of Ibrahim's (as) story as narrated in the Quran and also the Biblical account as he taught us the Abrahamic foundations. His passion and the layout of the course were engaging and I left with a strong attachment to the 'intellectual & moral courage' of Ibrahim (as); a principle myself and every Muslim should be implementing in our lives.JazakAllahu Khair" - Mohamed Abdalla, Cambridge

Video Testimonials: http://courses.meoc.org.uk/p/blog-page.html

Seminar Highlights of Surah Al-Haqqah

http://courses.meoc.org.uk << Click Here To Register

Previous Posts

Preview of Nuh (AS) Seminar - Gems from Shaykh Akram Nadwi

The People of Nuh (AS) and the People Today - Same Idols But Modern Names

The Big Debate: Nuh (AS) Vs Richard Dawkins - Coming Up Soon!

SURAH NUH (NOAH) - THE STRUGGLE OF THE PROPHETS

Preview of Nuh (AS) Seminar - Gems from Shaykh Akram Nadwi

2013-01-22T09:01:00.003-08:00

What follows is some extracts from the notes by Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi on the forthcoming unique seminar - Surah Nuh.

"Like every part of the Qur’an, Surah Nuh holds its meaning in relation to the context of the revelation of the Book to the Prophet, salla-llahu `alayhi wa sallam. This is an early surah connected to the condition of the Prophet’s mission before the command to do Hijrah to Yathrib. It is implicitly addressing the expressions, postures and attitudes of the mushrikun in Makkah in their refusal of God’s message. For the Prophet there is consolation and strength from the precedent of Nuh, `alayhi s-salam, just as, for the the mushrikun, there is warning and threat from the precedent of what befell the ones who rejected Nuh" - Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi on Surah Nuh

"Theme #9 - Unfortunately, people cannot always see through this world to the Reality, so over time their belief in God becomes enfeebled, lukewarm, then diluted, mixed with something else and so perverted. They come to fear and reverence only what they can see –the forces of nature, or the powers of some men over others, and both these have psychological effects as inhibitions, superstitions, taboos. Their world becomes narrower, their vision likewise. Their feeling of anxiety and fearfulness in the world makes them look with special reverence to great individuals of their community’s past, who were powerful or wise or who helped them to accomplish things that now they fear they cannot accomplish. History quickly degenerates into myth, and myth evolves as fetishism and superstitious religion. Eventually these mis-remembered great individuals or misunderstood and feared forces of nature come to be worshipped as lesser powers, separate from even if beneath God (bi-duni-llah). The people, trapped in this degeneracy, come to elevate the historical achievements of their ancestors, to turn them into pseudo-religious myths, and then they cling to these myths. In principle and practice they behave as if these great ancestors had become gods beneath God with power to shape their present and future, to influence the coming of rain or safe travelling over the sea, or the outcome of other human efforts, like marriage or war. In Surah Nuh, the proper names are listed of some of these false ancestor-deities whose stories had travelled to, and so were known in, the world of the Arabs of the Jahiliyya. In our time, likewise, though never formally deified, the achievements and great figures of a people are turned into mythical entities, and they cling to them, and want to “follow their ways”, to “live up to them”, no matter what they did really. In this way, the Reality is veiled from them, and they do not experience it and cannot make themselves open to it. They mouth adherence to the great people or great ways (ideas, values) of their past (like, for example, rationalism, enlightenment, freedom, democracy, equality), and so they are blind to the realities of what they are doing in the present, as well as being blind to the historical realities of what was done in the name of these mythologised values in the past" - Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi on Surah Nuh
The story of Nuh (AS) is a deep and powerful story that has immense relevance to the time that we are living in. His story would help us understand this world and its workings in a way that we have never thought of before. The upcoming seminar on Surah Nuh is a wonderful opportunity to study this important story in the Qur'an and discover its many lessons, under the guidance of one of the foremost scholars and thinkers of the Western world today - Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi of Oxford University, who very effectively combines traditional scholarship with modern research to have a way of thinking and teaching that is truly unique.

Prices going up this weekend. Please book your place today.
Surah Nuh - The Struggle of The Prophets

The Magnificent Journey

An Amazing Journey Through The Last Two Parts (Juzz Tabaarak and Juzz 'Amma) of the Qur'an, From Surah Al-Mulk to Surah An-Naas, by one of the foremost Islamic Scholars and Thinkers of the Western World today

By Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi (Oxford University)

Date: Saturday 26th January 2013     Time: 10AM - 6PM

Venue: Cambridge University and Live Online Web Access

Very Special Offer: Annual Pass - 12 sessions for the price of 5

[Audio recordings will be provided for the sessions missed if signed up for the annual pass]

http://courses.meoc.org.uk   << Click Here To Register

Video Testimonials: http://courses.meoc.org.uk/p/testimonials.html



Previous Posts

The People of Nuh (AS) and the People Today - Same Idols But Modern Names

The Big Debate: Nuh (AS) Vs Richard Dawkins - Coming Up Soon!

SURAH NUH (NOAH) - THE STRUGGLE OF THE PROPHETS

The People of Nuh (AS) and the People Today - Same Idols But Modern Names

2013-01-19T11:16:00.004-08:00

<<Noah said, ‘My Lord, they have disobeyed me and followed those whose riches and children only increase their ruin; who have made a grand plan, saying, “Do not renounce your gods! Do not renounce Wadd, Suwa ', Yaghuth, Ya'uq or Nasr!”>> [Surah Nuh 71:21-24]

Nuh (AS) complained about his people to Allah (SWT) thousands of years ago. But people today are no different to the people of Nuh (AS) because they are also following "those whose riches and children only increase their ruin". The only difference is that people today have different names for their gods than those of the people of Nuh (AS). The gods today are not Wadd, Suwa ', Yaghuth, Ya'uq or Nasr but capitalism, liberalism, rationalism, evolution, science, 'freedom', 'progress', secularism and atheism. They have made a grand plan saying 'do not renounce these gods' or rather they have gone further by trying to impose these gods on everyone else through their economic, military, political and media might.

However, what is very clear, if we look around with the light of revelation, is that they are on a path of self-destruction similar to the people of Nuh (AS). Sooner or later they will all be drowned because they are "those whose riches and children only increase their ruin". What is even more unfortunate is that some of us Muslims are also following the same path - the path of "those whose riches and children only increase their ruin". We behave like them, we act like them and worse, we think like them. So what do we think our fate would be? No doubt we will also drown with them! Simply being born in a Muslim family would not be of help to us, as not even kinship to a prophet helped the very own son of Nuh (AS). Only those people who respond to the call of Nuh (AS) and board the ship would be saved.

The story of Nuh (AS) is a deep and powerful story that has immense relevance to the time that we are living in. His story would help us understand this world and its workings in a way that we have never thought of before. The upcoming seminar on Surah Nuh is a wonderful opportunity to study this important story in the Qur'an and discover its many lessons, under the guidance of one of the foremost scholars and thinkers of the Western world today - Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi of Oxford University, who very effectively combines traditional scholarship with modern research to have a way of thinking and teaching that is truly unique.

Surah Nuh - The Struggle of The Prophets

The Magnificent Journey

An Amazing Journey Through The Last Two Parts (Juzz Tabaarak and Juzz 'Amma) of the Qur'an, From Surah Al-Mulk to Surah An-Naas, by one of the foremost Islamic Scholars and Thinkers of the Western World today

By Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi (Oxford University)

Date: Saturday 26th January 2013 Time: 10AM - 6PM

Venue: Cambridge University and Live Online Web Access

Very Special Offer: Annual Pass - 12 sessions for the price of 5

[Audio recordings will be provided for the sessions missed if signed up for the annual pass]

http://courses.meoc.org.uk << Click Here To Register

Book your place today to avoid any disappointment. Prices going up this weekend.

Video Testimonials: http://courses.meoc.org.uk/p/testimonials.html

Previous Posts

The Big Debate: Nuh (AS) Vs Richard Dawkins - Coming Up Soon!

SURAH NUH (NOAH) - THE STRUGGLE OF THE PROPHETS

The Big Debate: Nuh (AS) Vs Richard Dawkins - Coming Up Soon!

2013-01-10T13:58:00.004-08:00

Of course there is no real debate happening between the two but the people who Nuh (AS) had to deal with were as stubborn in their disbelief as Richard Dawkins (the leading atheist in the world) is or even more. Therefore the message of Nuh (AS) and the way he dealt with them is relevant for us than ever before. He had to deal with such people for nearly 950 years! The patience, persistence, perseverance and the concern for the people he showed in those 950 years is unimaginable.

<<He said, ‘My Lord, I have called my people night and day, but the more I call them, the further they run away: every time I call them, so that You may forgive them, they thrust their fingers into their ears, cover their heads with their garments, persist in their rejection, and grow more insolent and arrogant. I have tried calling them openly. I have tried preaching to them in public and speaking to them in private.’>> [Surah Nuh 71:5-9]

As we can see Dawkins is not as bad as the people that Nuh (AS) had to deal with because he will at least listen. So perhaps if we show a fraction of the courtesy of Nuh (AS) to Dawkins he may actually change his mind and consider accepting Islam! Nuh (AS) adopted different ways to call his people. What ways can we adopt in this day and age based on the story of Nuh (AS)?

This is your opportunity to learn and understand how to approach and deal with people like Dawkins through the story of Nuh (AS) as mentioned in the Qur'an. This is taught by one of the foremost scholars and thinkers of the Western world today - Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi of Oxford University where Dawkins is also a fellow.

Surah Nuh - The Struggle of The Prophets

The Magnificent Journey

An Amazing Journey Through The Last Two Parts (Juzz Tabaarak and Juzz 'Amma) of the Qur'an, From Surah Al-Mulk to Surah An-Naas, by one of the foremost Islamic Scholars and Thinkers of the Western World today

By Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi (Oxford University)

Date: Saturday 26th January 2013 Time: 10AM - 6PM

Venue: Cambridge University and Live Online Web Access

Video Testimonials: http://courses.meoc.org.uk/p/testimonials.html

Very Special Offer: Annual Pass - 12 sessions for the price of 5

[Audio recordings will be provided for the sessions missed if signed up for the annual pass]

http://courses.meoc.org.uk << Click Here To Register

SURAH NUH (NOAH) - THE STRUGGLE OF THE PROPHETS

2012-12-27T17:07:00.002-08:00

Nuh (AS) is one of the five special prophets chosen by Allah (SWT). The others are Ibrahim (AS), Musa (AS), ‘Eesa (AS) and Muhammad (SAW). Nuh (AS) lived for over a thousand years and his mission was unique: <<He said, ‘My Lord, I have called my people night and day, but the more I call them, the further they run away: every time I call them, so that You may forgive them, they thrust their fingers into their ears, cover their heads with their garments, persist in their rejection, and grow more insolent and arrogant. I have tried calling them openly. I have tried preaching to them in public and speaking to them in private.’>> [Surah Nuh 71:5-9].

His story shows how much he cared for his people despite their constant opposition and rejection for 950 years. To pursue a mission like this for such long time is no easy task. Even his own family rejected him. Therefore Allah (SWT) has made his life an example for the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and his followers to emulate in patience, persistence, perseverance and concern for the people: <<He said, ‘My people, I am here to warn you plainly. Serve God, be mindful of Him and obey me...>> [Surah Nuh 71:2-3].

So how do we follow him in the 21st century Britain?

Surah Nuh - The Struggle of The Prophets

The Magnificent Journey

An Amazing Journey Through The Last Two Parts (Juzz Tabaarak and Juzz 'Amma) of the Qur'an, From Surah Al-Mulk to Surah An-Naas, by one of the foremost Islamic Scholars and Thinkers of the Western World today

By Shaykh Dr Mohammad Akram Nadwi (Oxford University)

Date: Saturday 26th January 2013 Time: 10AM - 6PM

Venue: Cambridge University and Live Online Web Access

Video Testimonials: http://courses.meoc.org.uk/p/testimonials.html

Very Special Offer: Annual Pass - 12 sessions for the price of 5

[Audio recordings will be provided for the sessions missed if signed up for the annual pass]

http://courses.meoc.org.uk << Click Here To Register