Islam for Everyone and Forever

Khulafa'ur Rasyidin (Rightly Guided Caliphs) and the poor people

2011-07-08T21:34:00.000-07:00

At Khulafa'ur Rasyidin era (first four caliph), the companions of the Prophet Mohammed PBUH and his followers strive to do good by helping people in need. Abu Bakr Ash-Shidiq and Umar bin Khatab are those who vigorously compete in good deeds.
Abu Bakr
This event is happening at the time of Abu Bakr. At that time, Umar observe what is done by Abu Bakr, Then Umar doing good deeds such as those undertaken by the Abu Bakr.
One day, Umar was watching Abu Bakr Ash at dawn. When Abu Bakr went to the outskirts of the city of Medina after the Fajr prayers, Abu Bakr came to a small hut for a few seconds, then Abu Bakr returned to his house. Umar did not know what is in the hut, and what was happened there. Umar knew almost all the good done by Abu Bakr, unless the secrets of the business of the hut.
The days continue to pass. Abu Bakr Ash-Shidiq visited the little hut everyday. Umar did not know what Abu Bakr had done there. Finally, Umar decided to enter the hut immediately after Abu Bakr left the hut. Umar wanted to see what is in the hut with his own eyes. He wanted to know what his friends had done there.
When He came into the little hut, Umar saw a poor old lady and the lady was unable to move. The old lady was also blind. Nothing in the small hut. Umar stumped when viewing the contents of the hut. He wanted to know what was the relationship between an old lady and with Abu Bakr.
Umar asked, "What does the man (Abu Bakr) do here?". An old lady replied, "By Allah, I do not know the man, O my son. Every morning, he came, and swept my house and clean my house. He prepared some food for me. Then he left without speaking to me. "
Umar bend his knees, he cried. And he said the famous words, " You really made the leaders (after you) hard (to follow your good character), O Abu Bakr "
Umar bin Khatab
Umar bin Khatab, the Commander of the Faithful, married Umm Kulthum bin Ali. One day, he went from house to see directly his people. He met a man who sat with sorrow and anxiety at the door of the mosque. Umar asked, "What's wrong with you?" The man replied, "My wife is giving birth, but we do not have any and no one with her.". Umar wanted to know his house. Then the man pointed a tent on the outskirts of the city of Medina. Umar approached his wife, Umm Kulthum, saying, "Will you get good thing that God (will) send to you?" His wife asked, "What is it?" Umar explained, "A woman will give birth and there is no one accompanying her. His wife replied, "Allright."
Umar took the flour, butter and dry milk. He set off, followed by his wife. When they reached the tent, Umar shouted, “Occupants of this tent!." The man came out. Umar asked his wife to meet her, then he cooked flour, butter and dry milk. Umar put all those food stuff on the stove. He lit a fire and cooking the food. When the food had not already cooked, but the baby’s cries were heard from inside the tent. Umm Kulthum voice followed, "Leader of the believers, would you tell a good news to your friend, her firstborn was male." After the man was told the good news, the man was surprised. He said, "We have been troublesome and tiring the Commander of the Faithful."
Umar said, "It’s not a big deal. Will you come to us, tomorrow morning? We will give you what you need for your family. "The next day, the man came. Umar gave the man a camel and a full load of food in the back of the camel. The man was happy and grateful to the Commander of the Faithful.

Related archieves:
Charity in Islam
The dignity of women in Islam
Debt collecting in Islam
Democracy is democrazy?

Reading should become a habit a Muslim

2011-07-05T21:29:00.000-07:00

Read! (or proclaim!) in the name of thy Lord and Cherisher, Who created-. Created man, out of a (mere) clot of congealed blood. Read! And thy Lord is Most Bountiful,- He Who taught (the use of) the pen,- Taught man that which he knew not. (Quran, Surah al-Alaq: 1-5)

The meaning of the command "Iqra" (“read”)
Ibn Kathir explains the purpose of the above verse as follows:
"And indeed, among the mercy of God is teaching something that was unknown to mankind. So God elevate and glorify the human dignity through sciences. The glory is only given to human ancestor, Adam, that distinguishes humans from angels."

The command to read in the verse "Iqra '" do not mention its object. In grammar, this indicates that the command to read is not limited to a particular object, but reading everything from the verses of God, both expressed or implied, either in the form of His creation or in the form of Kitab al-Quran.
Why do we need to read?
Reading mean not just spell the words. Reading in a broad sense means: to make observations through the senses, to think through reason, to take lessons through the heart as well as receiving and believing the truth of what was spoken by God through His prophet. If so, it is very natural that reading is one of the center of attention of God, so that orders be placed as the first revelation to do by the Prophet and his followers, because the habit of reading has a very important role in human life. Among them are:
First; reading is human nature.
Reading in terms of understanding the phenomena that surround humans have been done by humans since the first moment of his birth, when a baby is born into the world, from his mother's womb and face the new environment. Baby's skin started to sense the temperature that is different from before, the baby's nose breathe fresh air, and the baby's ears faintly hear voices. All of the reading process is carried out by the baby. Activity will continue to evolve throughout his life.
“It is He Who brought you forth from the wombs of your mothers when ye knew nothing; and He gave you hearing and sight and intelligence and affections: that ye may give thanks (to Allah.). (Quran; Surah An-Nahl [16]: 78)
Second, the habit of reading make people understand the reality.
People who is destined to be born in a state of blind, then he will never understand the concept of color. All colors are the same for them. Likewise, if people do not use the senses, reason, thought and conscience to get the truth, then he would never understand it. And if humans are not able to understand, then he is no better than animals
“Many are the Jinns and men we have made for Hell: They have hearts wherewith they understand not, eyes wherewith they see not, and ears wherewith they hear not. They are like cattle,- nay more misguided: for they are heedless (of warning). “( Quran, Surah al-A'raf [7]: 179)
Third: The habit of reading makes people are capable of distinguishing (which is good or bad).
Through the senses, mind, heart and revelation, human beings have the ability to distinguish the right one from wrong, the true from the false, the good from the bad, etc..
"That He might justify Truth and prove Falsehood false, distasteful though it be to those in guilt. (Quran; Surah al-Anfal [8]: 8)
Fourth, habit of reading make the man be able to make the right decision.
Someone who had no knowledge, then he will not be able to take a decision promptly and correctly. If a person acts based on wrong information, then he will take the wrong action.
If people take a decision without proper and sufficient information, then the decision is speculation. So their decision might be wrong and might be right. Correct decisions only obtained from information that is also true.
Humans must obtain the correct information from the source of the most true so that humans do not get lost in the speculative life. The information come from Allah and his messenger.
"The Truth is from thy Lord; so be not at all in doubt." (Quran; Surah Al-Baqarah [2]: 147).
Hopefully we can become people who can "read".

Related archieves:
Charity in Islam
The dignity of women in Islam
Debt collecting in Islam
Good leader always helps poor people

Islamic unity is built from a good family relationships

2011-07-04T02:45:00.000-07:00

Problems of property, inheritance and even differences in beliefs (madhhab, or organization) is often the trigger of the feud between family members. Thus, as a result of these differences, a parent with a child, brother and sister or between family members become separated, not greeted each other, and not caring. This social phenomenon should be a reflection for us, because the relationship is correlated with one's faith and also with the future of Islam.
Family is one part of the community. The integrity of a family, is a major contribution to the realization of a strong Muslim community, and the unity of Muslims (Muslim brotherhood). Prophet Muhammad pbuh was reminded of this issue through the verses of the Qur'an and as-Sunnah. He preached about the dangers of disconnecting from the family.

Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala is seriously threatening the people who break family ties. In verses 22-23 the letter Muhammad, Allah Subhanahu wa ta'ala convict people who break family ties as the damned, their ears are deafened and their sight are blinded.
This means that good advice will not be heard by the ear and will not penetrated into their hearts. They are also difficult to see the truth (al-Haq) even though the truth is in front of their eyes.
In another verse, Allah Subhanahu wa ta'ala also gives the title to people who break family ties as a wicked and losers (Quran, Surah al-Baqarah 26-27), cursed and became inhabitants of jahannam hell (Quran, Surah al-Ra'd 25). Threats in the Qur'an was later corroborated by the hadith of the Prophet Muhammad pbuh.: "People who break family ties do not go to heaven." (Narrated by Bukhari and Muslim).
The assertion of the Prophet Muhammad pbuh hadith shows that the threat of Allah against those who break family ties is really serious.
Thus, the relationship is related to one's faith. Hospitality is one of the identity of a believer. A believer always maintain familiarity with the family and when family relationships were severed, he immediately connect the family ties and held a reconciliation. Prophet Muhammad pbuh said: "Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day, then he should connect the relationship with his family." (Narrated by Bukhari).
Therefore, the punishment for those who break the family ties are very heavy. Punishment is not only in the hereafter but also inflicted since the person is still alive in the world, because the severance of family ties (intentional) is one of the major sins. In fact, the sin that has implications for the people around him.
Rasulullah SAW said: "Verily, Rahmat (mercy of Allah) was not revealed to people who are among those people there is someone who break family ties." (Narrated by Bukhari).
This Hadith shows that the sins of the people who break family ties also bad (the removal of God's grace) to those who live around people who break family ties.
Feuding brothers who are separated and are usually caused by the seizure of property, inheritance, jealousy, and personal matter. Conflicts in these problems is very common and often sound to our ears.
In addition to factors already mentioned above, there are other factors that recently became a new phenomenon. Differences in beliefs or Islamic organizations, and parties sometimes be a trigger of conflict among family or among community members - in some cases, such conflicts are difficult to reconcile.
Someone who has been steeped new beliefs, trying to spread that belief to the person or relatives nearby. While other family members who hold the traditions will not easily let go of that tradition. So, if we do not understand each other, conflicts will occur between relatives. From these differences, miss communication with family members is common. The difference is stratified. Levels of conflict also depends on the level of difference.
Family breakdown has also been experienced by the prophet Noah pbuh with his son, Qan'aan. When Noah pbuh and the other three sons of Noah (Sam, Ham, Jafits) and their followers are already inside the ship, because the flood occurred, Qan'aan who disbelieve say no to Noah pbuh for boarding the ship. "I will seek refuge in the mountains that can keep me out of the flood" said Qan'aan.
Due to refuse an invitation from his father, he was drowned by God and slammed by the flood and along with the infidels. Prophet Noah pbuh was greatly saddened by this tragedy, and cried "Oh God, he is my son". But what does God answer? "O Noah, verily he is not including your family, verily his deeds (Qan'an) is a bad deed." (Quran, Surah Hud: 45).
Got the answer from Allah Subhanahu wa ta'ala, Noah knew that Qan’an has cut family ties as well as break the faith, so he was no longer his son. Therefore, Noah had to give up Qan, ‘an to be punished by Allah Subhanahu wa ta'ala.
In that story, although Qan'an have blood relations with Noah, but he considers that there is no bond with her father. But Noah is hoped that the Qan'an would believe the order of Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala and reconvene with his brothers.
Noah trying to connect family ties, by getting Qan'an to believe in the commandment of God. But since Qan'an retain the principle of his disbelief, Allah Subhanahu wa ta'ala Qan'an separate from Noah pbuh.
From the story, we are more convinced by the words of the Prophet Muhammad pbuh: People who connect the family ties will always be shaded by the grace of Allah Subhanahu wa ta'ala, in contrast, people who break the family ties will be squeezed by the curse of Allah Subhanahu wa ta'ala. In the story above, Qan'an refuse an invitation from Noah to knit family ties. As a result, Allah Subhanahu wa ta'ala Qan'an punish.
So, the unity of Islam must be started from a strong family bond. The way is not just visiting each other, but the most important is encouraging each other. The family is a component of the Islamic community. If we are able to form an Islamic family, harmony and peace, it will create a faith community who come together under the umbrella of Islam blessed by God.

Related archieves:
Charity in Islam
Mothers and women in Islam
The dignity of women in Islam
"Reading" as behavior in Islam

Merits of Women According to Islamic Perspective

2011-06-29T14:40:00.000-07:00

Is this the beginning of creation of women and men differ? Whether women are created by evil gods or whether they are one of the dirt from the act of Satan? Is it true that only women are seduced and manipulated by Satan and women really be the cause of the expulsion of man from heaven?
That is partly a question that is answered with a justification by some people, thus creating a view or the mistaken belief that spread before the Islamic period and that believes is still etched in many people's views of the 20th century.
This view is explicitly contradicted in the Qur'an:
"O mankind! reverence your Guardian-Lord, WHO created you from a single person, created, of like nature, His mate, and from Them twain Scattered (like seeds) countless men and women; - reverence Allah, through Whom ye demand your mutual (rights) , and (reverence) the wombs (That bore you): for Allah ever watches over you." (Quran: Surah Annisa - 1)

Likewise the Qur'an reject views which differentiate between men and women by asserting that both come from one kind of the same and that God created a pair of men and women and breed a lot of men and women from both.
It is true that there is a saheeh hadith (hadith which can is credible) said:
You should advise each other to do good to women because they are created from a crooked rib (narrated by Bukhari, Muslim, and Tirmidhi from Abu Hurairah).
Unfortunately, the hadith is mistakenly understood that the woman is really created from Adam's rib, so the degree of humanity women were considered lower than men. However, there are many quite scholars who have explained the real meaning of the hadith.
Muhammad Rashid Rida, in "Tafsir al-Manaar", writes: "if the Old Testament (Genesis (2): 21) did not tell the story of Adam and Eve creation with the interpretation which leads to an understanding that women are really created from the rib of man, then this is surely that the wrong understanding would never occur to the mind of a Muslim. "
The crooked rib must be understood in the figurative sense. It means the hadith remind that the men should treated women wisely, because there is the women nature, character, and the tendency which is not the same as the men, so if this unique nature of women is not recognized by a man , then the man will behave rude to women. When a man attempted to impose a thought or action to women, then such action would create extremely refusal from the women, just as the crooked rib forced to become straight: it will be broken.
"We have honoured the children of Adam; Them provided with transport on land and sea; given Them for sustenance Things good and pure; and conferred on Them special favours, above a great part of our creation." (Quran: Al-Isra - 70)
The phrase "children of Adam" includes men and women, so the glory of God-given, included all the children of Adam, men and women. There is no difference between men and women in terms of their origin and honour. Allah - God Almighty - confirm that:
And their Lord hath accepted of them, and answered them: "Never will I suffer to be lost the work of any of you, be he male or female: Ye are members, one of another: Those who have left their homes, or been driven out therefrom, or suffered harm in My Cause, or fought or been slain,- verily, I will blot out from them their iniquities, and admit them into Gardens with rivers flowing beneath;- A reward from the presence of Allah, and from His presence is the best of rewards." (Quran (3): 195)
Perceptions of the distinguishing glory of men and women are eroded by Islam. Therefore, Islam condemned those who rejoice because of the birth of a son, but being sad because of the birth of a daughter:
When news is Brought to one of Them, of (the birth of) a female (child), his face darkens, and he is filled with inward grief!(Quran (16):58 - 59)
59. With shame does he hide Himself from his people, Because of the bad news he has Had! Shall he retain it on (sufferance and) contempt, or bury it in the dust? Ah! what an evil (choice) They Decide on?
From the verses of the Koran (Quran), is also found that the temptation and seduction of Satan is not only addressed to the woman (Eve) but also addressed to men. The verses that talk about temptation or seduction are in the words that show unity of both (Adam and Eve) without a difference, such as:
"Then began Satan to whisper suggestions to Them, Bringing Their Minds openly before all That Their shame was hidden from Them (before): he said: "Your Lord only forbade you this tree, Lest ye angels or Should Become Such Beings as live for ever.""(Quran (7):20)
If there are words in the singular, the word actually refers to men (Adam), which acts as the leader of his wife.
Allah said in Qur'an (20):120, "But Satan whispered evil to him: he said, "O Adam! Shall I lead thee to the Tree of Eternity and to a kingdom That never decays?""
Thus, it is seen that Al-Quran puts women at a reasonable place and straighten everything related to the wrong views of creation and position of women.

Related archieves:
Charity in Islam
Mothers and women in Islam
Debt collecting in Islam
"Reading" as behavior in Islam

Destruction of fiat money: the rise of gold

2011-06-27T16:26:00.000-07:00

Early destruction of paper money system is actually preceded by a decision taken by the president of the United States (U.S.) on August 15, 1971, where a surprising decision that printing money of U.S. $ is no longer based on the provisioning of gold weighing 1 Ozt (troy ounces) to U.S. $ 35. We can say that in the past, people freely exchange U.S. $ to gold with a fixed price range (the range of U.S. $ 35/OZt - U.S. $ 40/OZt), but now the price is no longer fixed, but following the laws of market: supply and demand. Nixon's decision was allegedly caused by the defeat of USA in the Vietnam war, which resulted in the USA bear much debt resulting economic difficulties. These problems were compounded by U.S. dollar exchange by countries that have foreign reserves in U.S. $ to gold according to the Bretton Woods agreement in 1965 because these countries know the condition of the gold that backed by the U.S.

Finally, the U.S. is no longer able to maintain coverage for paper money with gold reserves at the time, so the U.S. dollar is no longer secured by gold. To finance the spending of government and U.S. military, the Fed - as a “printing machine” – finally “print” U.S. dollars exceeds the ability of gold reserves. Finally, the countries holding U.S. dollar could no longer exchange them for gold because the U.S. has only 22% of gold reserves from which they should have corresponding dollar they “print”. France, which owns a lot of gold reserves, at the end convert U.S. $ into the form of gold in 1965 (and ultimately the gold reserves are depleted marked with the "Nixon Shock" above). At that time, the French exchange as much as U.S. $ 150 million in gold, followed by Spain of U.S. $ 60 million resulting in depleted U.S. gold reserves. This event is in many articles are often referred to as the "Nixon Shock" (Nixon shock). Release of the relationship between U.S. $ to gold is then recast in total world financial order and inflate the price of gold to date. As taken from Wikipedia, in the period 1970 to 2010, the rise in gold has reached 3,792%. Thus, after the "Nixon Shock", the fiat money of U.S. $ is just a blank check. It should be known by the entire world community that is not taught in schools about the complete history of this money. Robert T Kiyosaki in the cover of a book titled Unfair Advantage: The Power of Financial Education (Plata Publishing, Scottsdale, AZ, 2011) wrote the phrase "What Schools Will Never Teach You About Money" with the bold words NEVER. These conditions lead to inflation because the “paper money” which we hold is only a paper with printers and design are set by each country to manage local transactions. For countries that have ties with the USA, as well as international sales also use the U.S. $.
Under these conditions, we can understand why the IMF set members (the central banks of various countries) and must abide by the "Articles Of Agreement of the IMF". The contents of the article on the substance is that the IMF says that money should not be gold (gold as a reference exchange rate / exchange rate is prohibited by the IMF and forth in article IV section 2).
Therefore, we should use more "trully money". If we refer to the opinion of Imam Ghazali's that the fair money is gold and silver. It is also in accordance with the hadith narrated by Abu Bakr ibn Abi Maryam that he heard the Prophet Muhammad pbuh said, "The time will come to mankind, when nothing is valued except Dinar and Dirham". (Musnad Imam Ahmad bin Hambal).
Dinar is the Islamic Gold Dinar, Dinar Islamic or so-called Islamic Gold Dinar (IGD). It is made of 22 carat gold weighing 4.25 grams. Design or writings on the dinar could be different. Let us prepare ourselves before the time of the destruction of paper money comes. Should we switch from paper money savings into gold savings while we can still work and before our retirement comes.

Related archieves:
Islam guarantee the protection to Non-muslim
Democracy is democrazy?
Good leader always helps poor people
Islamic system eliminates money politics

Wasteful behavior in Islamic perspective

2011-06-26T23:28:00.000-07:00

Human have a tendency to behave wasteful. Wasteful behavior is one of the cunning of Satan to make our treasure not effectively raise our dignity. Our properties effectively plunge, handcuff and trap us mired in trickery of the property.
We can see in our everyday lives, people who have wealth, have more tendency to love their treasure. Their love to their treasure increase as the better value of the treasure. Moreover, they also wanted to show it off, anything they have. Sometimes, people like to show their vehicle off, while the others like to show their house off, and others. This behavior arise because- one of the reason is- people wanted to look more nice, more branded, or cooler than others. In fact, the more branded goods on our hand, the more it torture ourself.

I.e. someone gives you a ballpoint. From the appearance of the ballpoint you thought it was very nice, shiny, and it is good when it is used to write anything. But suddenly, this ballpoint torture yourself when someone told you that the brand of ballpoint "MP" is a famous brand of a ballpoint. Well, because you know the value of the ballpoint, your behavior was so changed. Suddenly you feel so afraid of missing it, . You’re afraid when the ink runs out quickly because the ink was expensive, etc.
Conversely, if we are familiar with the “humble” or simple stuff, you can bet life would be lighter. We must have strong self control our when we decide to buy an item. Remember, the most important thing is to ask yourself: what are the benefits of the goods that we will buy it. You should list your own scale of priorities, for example, Do we have to buy shoes for a thousand dollars when we only need sneakers. Moreover, if the available choices of prices, ranging from the 600, 400, and 200 dollars. So, if we are in a situation like this, then look for shoes that do not make us like to show off the shoes when wearing it, which does not torture yourself when cleaning the shoes, and has benefits in accordance with the main purpose of buying these shoes. Be wise, we tend to buy brands, but we actually need is the durability of the shoe.
Allah, the One and only, says: “And render to the kindred their due rights, as (also) to those in want, and to the wayfarer: But squander not (your wealth) in the manner of a spendthrift. Verily spendthrifts are brothers of the Evil Ones; and the Evil One is to his Lord (himself) ungrateful (Quran: Surah Al-Israa [17]: 26-27). Those who, when they spend, are not extravagant and not niggardly, but hold a just (balance) between those (extremes).” (Quran: Surah al-Furqan [25]: 67).
It was clear that wasteful attitude is closer to the behavior of the devil. Therefore, a simple life is one culture that must grow in our lives. Choosing to live with earthy culture does not mean we should not buy good, expensive, and branded stuff. Go ahead! But usually if you buy something because you like that, then when you see something better, our interest on the first item will be lost. Thus, our desire to buy will not stop. Buy something just because we need the goods and if we are able to buy goods. Again, just because of need! Moreover, if we can still use the other stuff that we already have, then it is wise if we do not make a purchase.

Related archieves:
Good leader always helps poor people
Mothers and women in Islam
Debt collecting in Islam
"Reading" as behavior in Islam
End of fiat money, rise of gold dinar

The meaning of charity in the view of Islam (part 1)

2011-06-24T00:24:00.000-07:00

What is the glory of charity? It is told in a hadith narrated by Turmudzi and Ahmad, as follows:
When Allah created the earth, then the earth trembled. Then Allah also created the mountain with the strength that has been given to the mountain, then the earth fell silent. Angels were amazed at the creation of the mountain. Then they asked, "O Lord, is there thy creation stronger than the mountains?"
Allah replied, "Yes, it is iron." The angels asked again, "My Lord, is there thy creation stronger than iron?"
Then Allah replied, "Yes, it is a fire"
The angels asked again, "O Lord, is there thy creation stronger than fire?"
Allah the Almighty replied, "Yes, it is water"
"Oh my Lord, is there thy creation stronger than water?", The angels asked again.
Allah the Most Exalted and Perfect said, "Yes, it is the wind"
Finally, the angels asked, "O Lord, is there thy creation stronger than all your creation?
Allah replied, "Yes, it is the act of Adam's descendants who give alms with his right hand while his left hand does not know these alms."

That means that the most noble person is one who give alms, but still able to overtake him, so the charity does is clean, honest, and sincere with no element of showing off or a desire to show off. It can be understood as a basic human instinct is the need of praise, respect, appreciation, gratitude, and so on. We are always tempted to show off everything we have or all of what we can do. Moreover, if what we do is a good thing.
Thus, we are not surprised, a charity with a sincere are the people who have tremendous power. They will not be defeated by the various types of low instincts, which is need to be praised. We believe that Allah would surely reward our charity at the moment we are in desperate need of assistance in a way that is never predicted by humans.
Allah is the God that is Most Gracious and Merciful to all His servants. Even to people that always rebel against His commands, God poured His grace that can not be measured.
All human actions, good or bad, will affect us. If we think about our property that is now within our grasp, the property often makes us forget that all such property is a gift from Allah the Almighty and the Most Rich. Allah entrusted those property to us, so that we can do good and give alms willingly and expecting good pleasure of Allah only. We will undoubtedly get a reward from Allah, whether we still live in this world or when we meet Allah someday.
Prophet Muhammad pbuh. (peace be upon him) called upon his companions who were preparing to go into battle, to charity. Especially at that time, Allah revealed the verses of charity to the Prophet Muhammad pbuh. , " The parable of those who spend their substance in the way of Allah is that of a grain of corn: it groweth seven ears, and each ear Hath a hundred grains. Allah giveth manifold increase to whom He pleaseth: And Allah careth for all and He knoweth all things (Quran, Surah al-Baqarah: 261).
(to be continued)

Related archieves:
Good leader always helps poor people
Mothers and women in Islam
Debt collecting in Islam
"Reading" as behavior in Islam

Democracy: The root of the problem of corruption and collusion!

2011-06-21T14:17:00.000-07:00

The notion that democracy is the best political and government system, was a big lie. In Indonesia, democracy actually fosters corruption, collusion and nepotism. Corruption in a democracy has penetrated into every agency of government, parliament / deputies, and the private sector.
According to Transparency International Indonesia, an index of corruption in Indonesia is not declining, still survive in 2.8 index. The position was similar to the previous period. Indonesia is ranked 110 out of 178 countries surveyed on the corruption perception index. (Antaranews, 26/10/2010).
Representatives, both at national and regional level, which is considered as the embodiment of democracy is a hotbed of many perpetrators of corruption. Based on survey results, the legislative ranks number one as the most corrupt institution followed by the judiciary and executive in Indonesia. The results of the survey says corruption in the legislature by 78%, 70% Judiciary and the executive 32% (mediaindonesia, 21 / 4).

For example: the election of senior deputy governor of Bank Indonesia (2004-2009 period) that ensnare the twenty-five members of the 1999-2004 Indonesian parliament; cases over the function of forests in Riau province (Indonesia); bribery case of house athletes projects which are now crowded in Indonesia and many other cases. Similarly, a row of parliament members caught in corruption cases is also very long.
“Buying and selling” of various draft laws, budget haggling, the regional growth, local elections, development projects, election officials, etc., is suspected to be “fertile lands” for the corruption growth of the parliament members. Even they were often identified to play a role as "brokers" or surrounded by the "middlemen".
Brokering in Parliament recognized by the Chairman of Commission I of the Indonesian Parliament, Mahfudz Siddiq. He revealed, the brokers in the parliament often wander in the “fertile lands” of Parliament, such as brokers of “buying and selling” of articles in the discussion of the national acts draft concerning the interests and particular authority related resources. The draft of Acts was priced based on (not only) each article, but even based on each verse. Money game also occurred in the activities of the fit and Prosper test. Fit and proper test case likely to be a gratuity positions that have “high value”. "“fertile lands” for the corruption are also commonly used in the discussion of the budget for the project of ministries and local government," he said (rri.co.id, 22 / 5).
Corruption behavior is not only the dominance of national and regional parliaments, but also the regional head (i.e. governor) who is a product of a democratic local elections. Minister of Home Affairs of Indonesia, Gamawan Fauzi said in January 2011, there are 155 regional head to the area that became suspect of corruption. "Every week there are new suspects. Of the 155 regional head into corruption suspects, 74 of whom were the governor, "said Gamawan (vivanews.com, 17 / 1).
Industrial Politics: Democracy
Why does corruption grow up at a system of democracy? The answer is other than to enrich themselves, corruption is also conducted to find the capital to get into the lane to compete in the arena of politics, including elections and local elections. For the democratic political process, particularly the electoral process became a candidate member of the national or regional parliament, and regional head candidate and even the president-vice president, do require large funds. To be a parliamentary candidate, it takes tens, hundreds of millions and even billions of rupiahs. While to become a regent, it takes funds of not less than Rp 20 billion for the campaign and other purposes.
Minister of Home Affairs of Indonesia, Gamawan Fauzi said: "At a minimum cost of a prospective head region is 20 billion rupiahs, but for the rich areas, the cost is 100 to 150 billion rupiahs. When coupled with the cost for the case in the Constitutional Court, we can not imagine how much it is? (Kompas.com, 05/07/2010).
Corruption increases ahead of local elections and elections. Case of corruption against a number of elite political parties at this time allegedly was part of a fundraiser for the preparation of elections 2014 in Indonesia. Political parties feel that the budget derived from donations of members who become officers or members of the legislature is too small. Then corruption and collusion with the businessman became the arena to dredge the funds for political parties.
The explosion of corruption is not just happening in Indonesia, but also in USA, Europe, China, India, Africa, and Brazil. Western countries are considered to have matured in a democracy also become the culprit of this depraved behavior. The businessman and the authorities work together in the electoral process. The businessman need power to business interests, the authorities need of funds to win the elections.
Jeffrey D. Sachs, Professor of Economics and Director of the Earth Institute at Columbia University and UN Secretary General's Special Adviser on Millennium Development Goals, saying Rich countries are the center of global companies that are doing a lot of the greatest violations such as collusion. (korantempo, 23 / 5). In democratic countries, like Indonesia, corrupt rulers and corrupt businessmen who are also above the law.
The practice of bribery and corruption in Indonesia is also involved foreign companies. United States Federal Bureau of investigation (U.S.) or the FBI revealed the bribery committed b y U.S. companies in Indonesia. Especially, U.S. firms operating in the territory of Indonesia.
Gary Johnson, head of the FBI Corruption Handler Unit stated that there are cases involving U.S. firms operating in Indonesia and it is under the FCPA (Foreign Corrupt Practices Act) or under the anti-corruption Act (detiknews.com, 11 / 5).
It is clear that the political system of democracy precisely at the root of corruption and collusion.
State is hijacked by collusion between the Entrepreneur - Ruler / Politicians
Collusion between businessman and ruler indicates the country has fallen, is hijacked by politicians and businessmen on their behalf. Corruption is one way to recoup and make a profit. If corruption will no longer be a trend, then restoration of their own capital or "donation" from investors will be done "legally". For that purpose, parliament and government create rules that allow such a mechanism, for example by providing so-called incentives, etc.. The mechanism can also be done through a legal process that has been set up, as project that is given to the “investors” through a tender that had been "arranged" to be seen by naked eye to meet all regulations. To achieve these objectives, these kind of projects must be held and propagated. That's why there are many "weird" projects. In the end, the state and its resource is robbed by the collusion of politicians / rulers with the bussinessmen, and even worse with the involvement of foreign parties.
All of that has become systemic because the root of problem is a democratic political system that might more properly called democratic political industry. Like the industry, those who profited were the managers (rulers, officials and politicians) and the capitalist or the owners of capital. People will continue to be consumers and the interests of the people is the only object of such merchandise. As a result of all that, people's interests are always marginalized.
Discard the democratic system!
It is clear that the democracy create corrupt, despotic, and greedy leaders. Democracy allows the authorities to love to cheat, take bribes, corruption, and collusion that are detrimental to the people, when Allah forbids such actions.
Malicious behavior of rulers and government is not just due to the depraved morals of the leaders, but also because of the rottenness of the system. Supposedly, the Muslims dumped industrial system called democratic political system and replace it with a system that please Allah and His Messenger, which guarantee the blessings of living in the world and the hereafter.
Therefore, to avoid people from all the bad effects of that system and realize a better life then there is no other way except to dispose of the political industrial system called democracy. Then, we take and apply instructions and system of life given by God the Almighty, the Wise. Because Allah has guaranteed that Islam will provide a good life to all of us and humanity in general.
Thus, the law who is better than the law of Allah. In the view of Islam, politics is the maintenance of the affairs and interests of the people. In the end is in the interest and kindness to the people.
" Do they then seek after a judgment of (the days of) ignorance? But who, for a people whose faith is assured, can give better judgment than Allah?" (Quran: Surah al-Maidah, verse 50).

Related archieves:
Islam guarantee the protection to Non-muslim
End of fiat money, rise of gold dinar
Islamic culture
How a good leader treats poor people
Islamic system eliminates money politics

Islamic Culture as Described by Quran (part 1)

2011-06-20T15:21:00.000-07:00

Prophet Muhammad pbuh. (peace be upon him) had left a great spiritual heritage, which has overshadowed the world and give direction to world culture during the past few centuries. It will continue to do so until God perfecting His light to the world. The heritage which has given a major influence on the past, and will thus, even more so in the future, is because it has brought the true religion and laid the only one culture that will ensure the happiness of this world. Religion and culture that has brought Muhammad to mankind through the revelation of God, is so cohesive that it can no longer be separated.
Islamic culture is very different from Western cultures which now rule the world, also in describing life. These cultural differences, between the one with the other are very principles. Conflicts in the West between religion power and temporal power as a nation which embrace Christianity or church and state led to the conclusion that church and state (government) must be separated, and the power of the state must be established to not recognize the authority of the church. The power conflict there brought the influence to the Western thought as a whole. The first result of that influence is the separation between human feeling to hear the human mind, between metaphysical thought with the provisions of positive knowledge (knowledge of reality) based on a materialism review. The victory of materialism mind is great influence on the birth of an economic system that has become the main foundation of Western culture.

As a result, in the West, there have been born many streams that would make everything on earth is subject to the life of the economy. Likewise, not a few people want to put the history of mankind in terms of religion, art, phylosophy, ways of thinking and knowledge - in all its ups and downs in various nations – with the economic parameter (materialsm). Even a few streams of Western philosophy has also made the patterns of conduct on the basis of usefulness of the material only.
In the other side, spiritual issues - in view of Western culture - is purely a personal matter, people do not need to give attention to it together. Therefore let these spiritual issues freely in the West is a glorified thing, more than freedom in the matter of ethics. They magnify the problem of ethics freedom for economic freedom that has been completely protected by the act. This Act will be implemented by the army or by the state with all the powers they have.
The western culture that make economic life as the essential thing would not achieve the goal to bring happiness to humankind and even plunged humanity into severe pain as experienced in recent centuries through world war. As human relations is only valued as a piece of bread we eat, then we scramble, compete and fight for the bread, each man uses their animal instinct, so each of us will always waited a good chance to get the piece of bread in the hands of someone else's, even in the bad way. Each human being will always see the other as an enemy , not as a brother. The only one rule is profit, while the principles are commendable morals, love and brotherhood will fall slip.
What happens in the world today is the most tangible evidence. In individualism, the workers compete with workers, owners of capital by capital owners. Workers with the owners of capital are two competing opponents. Individualism say that this competition and conflict will bring goodness and progress to mankind. Competition and conflict are considered as the incentive to work more diligently and would be a fair balance in sharing the wealth.
Conversely, socialism argue that class struggle should be ended with power in the hands of the workers, is one of natural necessity. If the struggle of nations for control of the property was reasonable, if the occupation or imperialism is fair anyway, how could the war be prevented and peace in the world can be guaranteed? At the end of the 20th century we have been able to witness - and still we can see - the evidence, that peace on earth with this kind of basic culture can only be implemented in a dream, but in reality it is nothing more than a nonsense.
Islamic culture was born on the grounds that contrary to the basic culture of the West. Islamic culture was born on the spiritual foundation that invites humans in order to be able to realize their relationship with nature and its place in nature as well as possible. If this awareness is already up to the limits of faith, the faith will keep them constantly educate and train themself, always clean up his heart, fills the heart and mind with the principles dignity, brotherhood, love, kindness and devotion. On this kind of principles, people should draw up their economic life.
Islam is free from the conflict between the powers of religion with temporal power and its influence, because Islam does not know the power of religion (theocracy). No one among Muslims - even though he was a caliph (a leader of Moslem people) – give an order to someone, in the name of religion, and states that he has an ability to give indulgence to anyone who violates the order. Also no one among Muslims - even though he was a caliphate - that would order to people other than what is already defined by God in the Quran. In fact, all Muslims are equal before God. Which one is more noble than others, depending on their piety - the devotion to God. A ruler can not demand loyalty of a Muslim if he committing sin and violates God’s order. We can learn from the words of Abu Bakr al-Siddiq (the first Muslim leader after the leadership of Prophet Muhammad pbuh.) to the Muslims in his inaugural address as the Caliph "Obey me as long as I obey the command of Allah and His Messenger. But if I violate the (command) of Allah and His Messenger then you may abort your loyalty to me. "
We can also learn from what happened in the era of the Ma'mun leadership, when people disagree with the leader / Caliph. There were so many people who oppose the opinion of the Caliph at that time, while they know what they would deserve if they dared oppose Caliph opinion.
In many cases, the mind has been used as a benchmark by Islam. Also in the terms of religion and faith, the mind has been used as a benchmark by Islam. Allah said:
" The parable of those who reject Faith is as if one were to shout Like a goat-herd, to things that listen to nothing but calls and cries: Deaf, dumb, and blind, they are void of wisdom." (Quran: Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 171)
This verse clearly states, that “taqlid” (to imitate/ following a person's religious view without knowing the evidence upon which it is based) without any reasoning or a guide is a behavior of the people who reject the faith. People can not believe if his understanding of the religion is not recognized by his wits, he does not know himself until he could be sure. If people grew up with the habit to follow a person's religious view without realizing it with a sense of his mind, so when they do an act, although a good deed, without knowing it is true, he was not considered as a believer. By faith, it is not meant to make people to humble themselves modestly doing good as a lowly animal, but that meant that people can improve the sense of his mind, can improve ourselves with knowledge, so when doing good, he really knew the kindness is really useful, acceptable to God. When leaving the crime, he had also understood the dangers of crime and how far it will take effect.

Related archieves:
Charity in Islam
The dignity of women in Islam
Debt collecting in Islam
"Reading" as behavior in Islam
Wasteful behaviour is banned in Islam

Mother's Love and the Status of Women in Islam (part 1)

2011-06-18T17:20:00.000-07:00

And We (Allah) have enjoined on man (to be good) to his parents: in travail upon travail did his mother bear him, and in years twain was his weaning: (hear the command), "Show gratitude to Me and to thy parents: to Me is (thy final) Goal. "But if they strive to make thee join in worship with Me things of which thou hast no knowledge, obey them not; yet bear them company in this life with justice (and consideration), and follow the way of those who turn to me (in love): in the end the return of you all is to Me, and I will tell you the truth (and meaning) of all that ye did." (Quran: Surah 31/ Luqman; verses 14-15).
Thy Lord hath decreed that ye worship none but Him, and that ye be kind to parents. Whether one or both of them attain old age in thy life, say not to them a word of contempt, nor repel them, but address them in terms of honour. And, out of kindness, lower to them the wing of humility, and say: "My Lord! bestow on them thy Mercy even as they cherished me in childhood." (Quran: Surah 17/ the Night Journey; verses 23-24).
Heaven lies under mother's feet (Al-Hadith).

Looking with compassion and hospitality to the mother and father, is worship to Allah (al-Hadith).
Allah's pleasure lies in the pleasure of both parents. His wrath is also located on their (our parents) wrath (Al-Hadith).

Mother ... how beautiful and sacred word. Word that carry the fragrance of friendliness and love into the soul, and makes us feel the warmth and purity.
Western world is now discovering new value of precious mother, whereas for centuries, Muslims have believed mother’s noble position based on the teachings of the divine through Islam. Islam believes in the value of a wonderful mother, and has attracted the attention of people through a variety of expressions and statements. In fact, Islam considers that reaching the final stage of perfection, namely heaven, depending on the willingness of mother. Prophet Muhammad pbuh. (peace be upon him) said, "Heaven lies under mother's feet."
In a position to glorify the mother, Islam does not restrict it to the advice, orders and verbal suggestion. But Islam also looked at the order and prohibition from our mother as an obligation to be implemented in certain things. For example, in case of Sunnah (a certain thing that is suggested by Allah to do), but contrary to the prohibition of our mother, the children are exhorted to obey their mother's ban.
If a child wants to fast sunnah, or travels based on Sunnah, but her mother forbade it, then it is the obligation for the child to obey his mother. If the child against the will of his mother, then not only he did not get rewarded for that charity, but he actually obtain sin because his refusal to obey his mother.
Another case where the mother's command is respected comparable with the command of God is if God's command against the mother's prohibition, provided that the action was not included in the mandatory commands such as Sholat fardhu or fasting of Ramadan. A man came to the Prophet and said, "O Prophet of Allah! I was young and strong, ready to act and devoted, and eager to go to holy war for the advancement of Islam! But my mother did not let me leave to go to the holy war." Noble Prophet who said, "Go live with your mother. I swear to God who chose me as a prophet, that the reward that you get to serve her even if only overnight, and make her happy with your presence, far greater than the reward of holy war for a year."
Islam considers homage to parents and the implementation of their rights as the largest human obligations after the divine command. The Quran says in this connection, ""Show gratitude to Me and to thy parents: to Me is (thy final) Goal.." (Quran: Surah 31/ Luqman; verse 14). It should be noted that Allah, shortly after calling his own right, then mention the right of both parents.
A man came to the Prophet (Prophet Muhammad pbuh.) and said, "O Prophet of Allah! Guided me, to whom I must do good to get the perfect benefit for my good deeds?" He said, "Be kind to your mother." He asked two more times, "And after her?" The Prophet replied, "To your mother." The man asked, "To anyone else who I should do well too?" The Prophet said, "To your father."
Privileges granted by Islam to a mother, is due to difficulty which has endured in developing the spiritual and physical life of her children. So that only the mothers who carry out her motherly duties well, raising and educating children to be good people, which deserves that position and privilege. While mothers who chose to have fun, riotous and abandon its obligations nurture and educate children, and let her children at the orphanage, had actually done an unforgivable injustice to her son. Therefore it is not reasonable to expect she would primacy of the rights and the position of mother.
Such mothers not only ruin the happiness of their children, but also gave a blow to the community due to their failure to educate their children. A child who does not learn from the teachings of loving mother, and whose emotions are not developed in the mother's lap, can not be expected to show affection in subsequent years. See how the great people of the world get a success mainly from the influence of the mother. Their mother has been carrying out important duties and play a successful role in fostering their children (to be continued).

Related archieves:
Charity in Islam
The dignity of women in Islam
Debt collecting in Islam
"Reading" as behavior in Islam

Islam Sharia Eliminates Money Politic

2011-06-10T18:17:00.000-07:00

Money politic grow and bloom in a political system based on democracy, especially liberal democracy. This political system is far from the foundation of religious, so it is secular system. This political system is born from the perspective of benefits (utility function), where the profit and loss is the only standard in politics. In order to gain profit, all means were lawful, as long as goals are reached.

In such political landscape, politicians never think how to take care of public affairs. Therefore, they never present in the midst of society, when they are needed. They were far from their people. They had approached, or rather close to the people, when they need people for their political interests. Hence, their acceptance in the midst of any society is low.
However, instead of they watching and taking care of people with a sincere interest, they prefer a shortcut. At such times, they were bribing people, and anyone who can be bribed with money from the opportunist politician. People who live in the corrupt political culture and economic difficulties were finally enjoy that dirty money.
Landscape and political culture like this grow in the capitalist political system. As long as the foundation, standards and political outlook is still built on secularism and the principle of benefit, then the political landscape and culture like this will continue to live and flourish. To stop this kind of political practice, we need a fundamental change. Secularism, which became the foundation of opportunists political should be discarded and replaced with Islam. Similarly, the standard and benefit perspective, should be thrown away and replaced with halal-haram (the rules in Islamic perspective that determine all things which are allowed and which are prohibited) .
The question then, what guarantee is if Islam is applied, then landscape and the corrupt political culture, including money politics, can be removed? The answer, first, the guarantees exist in Islamic theology that became the foundation of life, including political systems. Adherents of Islamic faith have made every obedience have devotion to God in all aspects of life, so that it appears self-control in them. With the same devotion, the community also has a social control, so that the obligation to advocate doing good and abstaining from bad deeds can work well and effectively in the midst of society. With the belief in Islam as well, none of which are run by state law, unless the laws of Islam. State did not provide different treatment in enforcing the law against all people.
When Abu Hurayrah was sent by the Prophet Muhammad pbuh. as head of state to take taxes from some citizens, they are trying to bribe Abu Hurayrah with jewelry collected from their wives and their children. They said, "We have been collecting jewelry from our wives and daughters to you, so you can reduce the amount of tax that you take from us." With a firm, Abu Hurayrah was refused. Upon hearing the answer to Abu Hurayrah, they stated, "If all state officials have similar manner like you, surely the heavens and the earth will be made to stand forever." Abu Hurairah can act decisively because of his obedience to God, so he has a very strong self control, and could not be bribed.
When Caliph Mu'awiyah cursed Imam 'Ali in the pulpits of mosques, Asma' bint Abu Bakr, came to him and advised him not to engage in unethical acts like that. Not only Asma ', the people were leaving him for not listening to him curse' Ali (al-Ya'qubi, al-Ya'qubi chronicle, 155). When Caliph al-Mansur ibn Ja'far went from Baghdad to the holy land with the group, then a scholar standing advising him and questioned the fund that is used by the caliph to dispatch the group. That scholar is Sufyan as-Thaury (Ibn Qutaibah ad-Dainuri, Al-Imamat wa al-Siyasah, Juz II/172). The other good example could be learned from Izzuddin bin Abdussalam, when he saw the mistakes in the policy of their political rulers, he do not hesitate to expose and correct these mistakes in the speech pulpit. When asked by his pupil, if he was not concerned with that action? He emphatically stated, "When God is present in my heart, then the ruler just like a cat in my eyes." (Fauzi Sinnuqarth, Taqarrub Ila-Llah, p.. 161). Again, obedience to Allah form the social control in Asma ' , Sufyan as-Thaury and Izzuddin Abdussalam.
This is just a bit of an example, that Islam is a guarantee from the growth of a clean landscape and political culture in the community. In addition to the above three factors, Islam also has a clear mechanism so that the political practices of the dirty and corrupt it can be cleaned.
Islam, for example, by expressly prohibiting bribery, briber (ar-rasyi), recipient of bribes (al-murtasyi) and the bribery intermediary (ar-Ra'is bainahuma). Not only the bribe is prohibited, but a gift given to the ruler is also forbidden. In addition to proscribe bribery, Islam is also closing the gap for the growth of dirty practice like this. Because generally, bribes and gifts is related to the interests of briber who want to be fulfilled, while the interest is related to the paperwork and bureaucracy, Islam built administration and bureaucracy with three basic principles: (1) simple bureaucracy (an-nidzam basathah fi); (2) faster in the process and completion (sur'ah fi injaz), and (3) is handled by experts and obedience to Allah ('Abd al-Qadeem Zallum, Nidzam al-hukm fi al-Islam, p.. 211-213) .
The third addition to the above characteristics, bureaucracy and public administration are not centralized, but decentralized. In every town there are small or large administrative bureau, which allows local residents to complete their paperwork is in the area, do not necessarily have to refer to the center. Management was developed by following the development of facilities and infrastructure, or the latest technology. Not only that, these agencies also led by experts in their fields, and have trustworthy manner, sincere, pious to Allah (Muhammad Husayn 'Abd Allah, Dirasat fi al-Fikr al-Islam, p.. 86).
With such a system, opportunities for bribery and corruption can be closed. If the opportunity is closed, but corruption still occur, then the law will be enforced strictly, without exception. Islam also establish sanctions to be applied to them, where the level of sanctions will be determined by the judge.

Non-Muslims, do not be scared of Islam !

2011-05-27T09:57:00.000-07:00

Generally, people are afraid when they heard the word "Enforce Islamic Way!", especially the non-Muslim communities, due to false propaganda masquerading as the USA war on terror.
Though there is no need of fear. Islam promises peace and love for all. Islam appears so nice; will remain beautiful, until the end of time. Love and beauty of Islam is able tasted by anyone who wants to taste it. If a person is a Muslim, the sweetness of Islam will be felt perfectly. But for non-Mmuslim, splashed by the love of Islam, has made them able to smile happily.
It is true the word T.W. Arnold, in his book The Preaching of Islam. There is written a historical record, the harmony of Muslims and non-Muslims; occurred when the Ottoman government. Well said T.W. Arnold, "Though the number of Greeks more than the Turks in the various provinces of the Caliphate in Europe, religious tolerance is given to them, the protection of life and property acquired to make them recognize the protection of the Sultan toward all Christians."
Sultan Muhammad al-Fatih also carve an impressive history. When the City of Constantinople was conquered, he pledged himself as a protector of the Church of Greece. He also issued an edict banning harsh oppression of the Christians. Followed with out the decree that contains security protection to the bishop-elect and his successors in the future. Treatments of Muhammad al-Fatih Sultan to citizens of non-Muslims are really elegant.
That is Islam. Every human being seated on the nature of each. There are obligations that must be done and there are rights that should he obtained. Non-Muslims who choose to live under the shade of the Caliphate (Ahlu dhimma), then it is obligatory for those implementing Islamic rules of a general nature, also must pay the jizya (annual fee). It was imposed only to healthy adult male.
Having performed its obligations then ahludz dhimma perfectly entitled to protection. They are treated equally with other Muslims. They should not be harmed. Anyone who hurts ahludz dhimma, Prophet Muhammad pbuh said, it hurt him (Prophet Muhammad pbuh) just the same (hadith narrated by ath-Thabrani). They will not be forced to embrace Islam. They are free to perform their religious rules in terms of worship, also in matters of food and clothing. So also any marriage and divorce among non-Muslims returned to the provisions of their respective religions.
Fear of the establishment of Islamic rule is clearly unwarranted fear. Because, where there is Islam, then there is the love of God and the accompanying benefits. Precisely this is the system of capitalism should be feared because it proved to devastate the world. So the rules of Islam is not to be feared, but instead missed its presence.

Related archieves:
Charity in Islam
Mothers and women in Islam
Debt collecting in Islam
"Reading" as behavior in Islam

Debt collectors in Islamic perspective

2011-05-27T09:47:00.000-07:00

What about the status of debt collectors themselves according to Islam? Because debt is the rights of creditors, then the services provided by a debt collector to collect the debt is actually permissible. In this case, the status of its own debt collectors can be categorized into two. First: the representative of the creditors, ie someone who got the authority of creditors to collect debts to third parties. Second: The people who work for the creditors, ie someone who is hired by a creditor to the collection of receivables. Judging from these facts, there is nothing wrong with this job. Thus, there is no prohibition to collect the debt by using their services. Due to collect such debts are the rights of creditors, the creditor may collect directly, use the services of another person, or submit the case to court debt. All the options depends on the person who has the right (the creditor). Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani, when commenting on Bab al-Wakalah fi qadha 'ad-Dayn (Debt Payment depute Law) by quoting the opinion of Ibn Munir, said, "The rules of this explanation, as if for people who assume, that the debt should be carried out immediately, then give a mandate to someone else to pay the debt should not be done, because there is a delay from the original mandate to the deputy. Yet it is precisely should be done, and the action does not include the category of payment delay."

If someone pays the debt must be paid, and shall be fulfilled as soon as it can be done by others, then collect the debt that is "permissible", and may be suspended is certainly much more done by others. The problems that arise from the ways used by debt collectors in carrying out their duties, then this should not be used as arguments to prohibit job (debt collectors). What should be prohibited is the use of dirty ways, for example terrorizing, both psychologically and physically. Because, with Prophet Muhammad pbuh had expressly forbids such action: A Muslim is forbidden to terrorize another Muslim (Hadith narrated by Ahmad, Abu Dawood and al-Bayhaqi).
However, it should be noted, these violations can occur because both the debtor and the creditor does not understand the rights and obligations associated with debt-accounts. For a debtor, who owes money to the creditors, the law of paying debts on time is "Fardhu 'ain' (mandatory without exception), if he can afford. Also, such obligations must be fulfilled immediately, and haram (not allowed) to delay. Therefore, delaying debt payments for those able to pay the debt referred to by Prophet Muhammad pbuh as injustice: "Procrastinating debt payments for the rich is unfair action" (Hadith narrated by al-Bukhari and Muslim).
However, if the debtor is unable to pay, the debtor was required to notify the difficulty in repaying debts to the creditor, and debtor was entitled to reschedule debt payments. At the same time, the creditor is also obliged to accept the request postponement of debt payments, and providing concessions to the debtor. Its foundation is the word of Allah SWT: If someone has difficulty so give ease to him (Quran Surah al-Baqarah [02]: 280).
In addition, many Hadith that encourage creditors to be loose and provide convenience to the debtor, if the debtor is experiencing difficulty. In this situation, there are some steps that can be done. First: the debtor is asked to swear by God that the debtor is really in trouble. Second: if the debtor has the other property, then it could be sold, and paid to creditors. Third: if the debtor's debts is greater than the assets owned by the debtor, the debtor is declared as muflis (bankruptcy), then he should be subject Hijr (sanctions ban on transaction). Then the property of the debtor is calculated, and then distributed to the creditors, as a percentage of receivables. These three actions can be performed by the state, through the Court / tribunal, as it has ever undertaken by the Caliph 'Umar ibn al-Khaththab to Asfa' bin Juhainah. This is done if the person who owed it really can not afford to pay, and in adversity. However, if the person is capable, also not in trouble, but just putting off the payment, then the creditor can collect the debt, either directly or with the services of others; can also apply to the court, so that he would be forced by the state to pay its debts . State can impose sanctions to him due to his actions. It is based on the words of the Prophet Muhammad pbuh.: People who are able to pay the debt, but putting off, then he justifies himself subject to sanctions and his/ her honor (is "halal" / his or her property may be taken forcibly comparable with debt) (Hadith narrated by al-Bukhari).
However, this latter action usually will be pursued by the creditors, if state and law enforcement officials credible. It can only exist in the Caliphate system, not in a corrupt system it is today.

Related archieves:
Islam guarantee the protection to Non-muslim
End of fiat money, rise of gold dinar
Wasteful behaviour is banned in Islam
Islamic system eliminates money politics