Islam The Way Of Life

Kisah Seorang Gubernur

2009-04-26T15:45:00.001-07:00

Seorang Gabernor pada zaman Khalifah Al-Mahdi, pada suatu hari mengumpulkan sejumlah tetangganya dan menaburkan wang dinar dihadapan mereka. Semuanya saling berebutan memunguti wang itu dengan suka cita. Kecuali seorang wanita kumal, berkulit hitam dan berwajah jelek. Ia terlihat diam saja tidak bergerak, sambil memandangi para tetangganya yang sebenarnya lebih kaya dari dirinya, tetapi berbuat seolah-olah mereka orang-orang yang kekurangan harta.

Dengan kehairanan sang Gabernor bertanya, "Mengapa engkau tidak ikut memunguti wang dinar itu seperti tetangga engkau?" Janda bermuka buruk itu menjawab, "Sebab yang mereka cari wang dinar sebagai bekal dunia. Sedangkan yang saya perlukan bukan dinar melainkan bekal akhirat." "Maksud engkau?" tanya sang Gabernor mulai tertarik akan kepribadian perempuan itu. "Maksud saya, wang dunia sudah cukup. Yang masih saya perlukan adalah bekal akhirat, iaitu sholat, puasa dan zikir. Sebab perjalanan di dunia amat pendek dibanding dengan pengembaraan di akhirat yang panjang dan kekal."

Dengan jawapan seperti itu, sang Gabernor merasa telah disindir tajam. Ia insaf, dirinya selama ini hanya sibuk mengumpulkan harta benda dan melalaikan kewajiban agamanya. Padahal kekayaannya melimpah rauh, tak kan habis dimakan keluarganya sampai tujuh keturunan. Sedangkan umurnya sudah di atas setengah abad, dan Malaikat Izrail sudah mengintainya.

Akhirnya sang Gabernor jatuh cinta kepada perempua lusuh yang berparas hanya lebih bagus sedikit dari monyet itu. Kabar itu tersebar ke segenap pelosok negeri. Orang-orang besar tak habis fikir, bagaimana seorang gabernor boleh menaruh hati kepada perempuan jelata bertampang jelek itu.

Maka pada suatu kesempatan, diundanglah mereka oleh Gabernor dalam sebuah pesta mewah. Juga para tetangga, termasuk wanita yang membuat heboh tadi. Kepada mereka diberikan gelas crystal yang bertahtakan permata, berisi cairan anggur segar. Gabernor lantas memerintah agar mereka membanting gelas masing-masing. Semuanya terbengong dan tidak ada yang mahu menuruti perintah itu. Namun, tiba-tiba terdengar bunyi berdenting, pertang ada orang gila yang melaksanakan perintah itu. Itulah si perempuan berwajah buruk. Di kakinya pecahan gelas berhamburan sampai semua orang tampak terkejut dan kehairanan.

Gabernor lalu bertanya, "Mengapa kaubanting gelas itu?" Tanpa takut wanita itu menjawab, "Ada beberapa sebab. Pertama, dengan memecahkan gelas ini bererti berkurang kekayaan Tuan. Tetapi, menurut saya hal itu lebih baik daripada wibawa Tuan berkurag lantaran perintah Tuan tidak dipatuhi." Gabernor terkesima. Para tamunya juga kagum akan jawapan yang masuk akal itu. Sebab lainnya?" tanya Gabernor. Wanita itu menjawab, "Kedua, saya hanya menaati perintah Allah. Sebab di dalam Al-Quran, Allah memerintahkan agar kita mematuhi Allah, Utusan-Nya, dan para penguasa. Sedangkan Tuan adalah penguasa, atau ulil amri, maka dengan segala resikonya saya laksanakan perintah Tuan." Gabernor kian takjub. Demikian pula paran tamunya. "Masih ada sebab lain?"

Perempua itu mengangguk dan berkata, "Ketiga, dengan saya memecahkan gelas itu, orang-orang akan menganggap saya gila. Namun, hal itu lebih baik buat saya. Biarlah saya dicap gila daripada tidak melakukan perintah Gabernornya, yang bererti saya sudah berbuat durhaka. Tuduhan saya gila, akan saya terima dengan lapang dada daripada saya dituduh durhaka kepada penguasa saya. Itu lebih berat buat saya."

Maka ketika kemudian Gabernor yang kematian isteri itu melamar lalu menikahi perempuan bertampang jelek dan hitam legam itu, semua yang mendengar bahkan berbalik sangat gembira kerana Gabernor memperoleh jodoh seorang wanita yang tidak saja taat kepada suami, tetapi juga taat kepada gabernornya, kepada Nabinya, dan kepada Tuhannya.

Keutamaan Berdzikir

2009-04-26T15:42:00.000-07:00

Diriwayatkan oleh Abu Hurairah r.a Rasulullah s.a.w. bersabda: "Allah s.w.t. mempunyai malaikat yang ditugaskan mencari majlis zikir. Sebaik saja mereka menjumpainya, mereka duduk bersama dengan orang-orang yang berzikir itu serta memanggil malaikat-malaikat yang lain. Mereka akan datang mengelilingi majlis zikir itu dengan sayap-sayapnya sehingga memenuhi ruang antara mereka dengan langit dunia.

Lalu mereka ditanya oleh RabbNya (Dia Maha Mengetahui), "Apa yang dikatakan oleh hamba-hamba-Ku?" Para malaikat menjawab, "Mereka menyucikan dan mengagungkan Engkau, memuji dan memuliakan Engkau."

Allah berfirman, "Apakah mereka melihat-Ku?" Para malaikat menjawab, "Tidak, demi Allah, mereka tidak melihat-Mu." Allah berfirman, "Bagaimana kalau mereka melihat Aku?" Para malaikat berkata, "Kalau mereka melihat-Mu, tentunya ibadah mereka akan bertambah, tambah menyucikan dan memuliakan Engkau."

Allah s.w.t. berfirman, "Apa yang mereka minta?" Para malaikat berkata, "Mereka memohon surga kepada-Mu." Allah berfirman, "Apakah mereka pernah melihatnya?" Para malaikat berkata, "Tidak, demi Allah, mereka tidak pernah melihatnya." Allah s.w.t. berfirman, "Bagaimana kalau mereka melihatnya?" Para malaikat berkata, "Kalau mereka melihatnya, niscaya mereka akan semakin berhasrat serta tamak dalam memohon dan memintanya."

Allah s.w.t. berfirman, "Pada apa mereka memohon perlindungan?" Para malaikat berkata, "Mereka memohon perlindungan dari neraka-Mu." Allah s.w.t. berfirman, "Apakah mereka pernah melihatnya?" Para malaikat berkata, "Kalau mereka melihatnya, niscaya mereka akan semakin berlari menjauhinya dan semakin takut." Allah s.w.t. berfirman, "Kalian Aku jadikan saksi bahawa Aku telah mengampuni mereka."

Salah seorang dari malaikat itu berkata, "Di dalam kelompok mereka terdapat si Fulan yang bukan bagian dari mereka. Ia datang ke sana hanya untuk suatu keperluan." Allah s.w.t. berfirman, "Anggota majlis itu tidak menyengsarakan orang yang duduk bergabung dalam majlis mereka."

ALLAH SEBAGAI SAKSI DAN PENJAMIN

2009-04-18T15:53:00.000-07:00

Imam Ahmad meriwayatkan dari Abu Hurairah, dari Rasulullah saw., beliau bercerita, "Sesungguhnya ada seorang Bani Israel yang memohon kepada Bani Israel lainnya untuk meminjaminya uang seribu dinar. Orang yang meminjamkan berkata, 'Datangkanlah saksi-saksi. Aku ingin mempersaksikan peminjaman ini kepada mereka.' Peminjam berkata, 'Cukuplah Allah sebagai saksinya.' Orang yang meminjamkan berkata, 'Datangkanlah seorang penjamin.' Peminjam berkata, 'Cukuplah Allah sebagai penjamin.' Orang yang meminjamkan berkata, 'Kamu benar.' Kemudian dia memberikan uang itu hingga tempo tertentu.

Peminjam uang pergi ke laut untuk memenuhi hajatnya. Kemudian dia merasa sangat membutuhkan perahu untuk mengantarkan uang pinjamannya yang sudah jatuh tempo pembayarannya. Namun, dia tidak menemukannya. Kemudian dia mengambil kayu dan melubanginya. Lalu dia memasukkan ke dalamnya uang seribu dinar berikut secarik tulisan yang ditujukan kepada pemilik uang. Kemudian melapisinya agar tidak terkena air. Lalu dia membawa kayu ke laut. Dia berkata, 'Ya Allah, sesungguhnya Engkau mengetahui bahwa saya telah meminjam uang seribu dinar kepada si Fulan. Dia meminta penjamin dariku, kemudian kukatakan bahwa cukuplah Allah sebagai penjamin, dan dia pun rela. Dia memintaku mendatangkan saksi, lalu kukatakan bahwa cukuplah Allah sebagai saksi, dan dia pun rela. Sesungguhnya aku telah berusaha untuk mendapatkan perahu yang akan kugunakan untuk mengantarkan uangku kepadanya, namun aku tidak mendapatkannya. Kini, kutitipkan uang itu kepada-Mu.' Kemudian dia melemparkan kayu itu hingga tenggelam. Dia pun pergi. Walau demikian, dia tetap berusaha mencari perahu yang menuju ke negeri orang yang meminjamkan.

Kini, orang yang meminjamkan uang pergi untuk menanti. Barangkali ada perahu datang membawa piutangnya. Tiba-tiba dia menemukan kayu yang berisi uang itu. Dia membawanya pulang sebagai kayu bakar untuk istrinya. Tatkala dia membelahnya, dia menemukan uang dan secarik pesan. Di lain pihak, si peminjam pun datang juga membawa seribu dinar. Dia berkata, 'Demi Allah, sebelum aku datang sekarang, aku senantiasa berusaha untuk mendapatkan perahu guna mengantarkan pinjaman kepadamu.' Orang yang meminjamkan berkata, 'Apakah kamu mengirimkan sesuatu kepadaku?' Peminjam berkata, 'Bukankah telah kuceritakan kepadamu bahwa aku tidak menemukan perahu, sebelum saya mendapatkannya sekarang ini?' Orang yang meminjamkan berkata, 'Sesungguhnya Allah telah mengantarkan pinjamanmu yang kau taruh dalam kayu. Maka gunakanlah uangmu yang seribu dinar itu dengan baik.'"

Sanad riwayat ini sahih. Al-Bukhari meriwayatkan pula kisah ini dalam
bentuk yang ketat.

Ikrimah Bin Abu Jahal (Sahabat Nabi)

2009-04-18T15:52:00.001-07:00

Abu Ishaw As-Ayabi'i meriwayatkan, ketika Rasulullah SAW berhasil menaklukkan kota Makkah, maka Ikrimah berkata: Aku tidak akan tinggal di tempat ini!" Setelah berkata demikian, dia pun pergi berlayar dan memerintahkan supaya isterinya membantunya. Akan tetapi isterinya berkata: "Hendak kemana kamu wahai pemimpin pemuda Quraisy?" Apakah kamu akan pergi kesuatu tempat yang tidak kamu ketahui?" Ikrimah pun melangkahkan kakinya tanpa sedikitpun memperhatikan perkataan isterinya.

Ketika Rasulullah SAW bersama para sahabat lainnya telah berhasil menaklukkan kota Makkah, maka kepada Rasulullah isteri Ikrimah berkata: "Ya Rasulullah, sesungguhnya Ikrimah telah melarikan diri ke negeri Yaman karena ia takut kalau-kalau kamu akan membunuhnya. Justeru itu aku memohon kepadamu supaya engkau berkenan menjamin keselamatannya."
Rasulullah SAW menjawab: "Dia akan berada dalam keadaan aman!" Mendengar jawapan itu, maka isteri Ikrimah memohon diri dan pergi untuk mencari suaminya. Akhirnya dia berhasil menemukannya di tepi pantai yang berada di Tihamah. Ketika Ikrimah menaiki kapal, maka orang yang mengemudikan kapal tersebut berkata kepadanya: "Wahai Ikrimah, ikhlaskanlah saja!"

Ikrimah bertanya: "Apakah yang harus aku ikhlaskan?"
"Ikhlaskanlah bahwa tidak ada Tuhan melainkan Allah dan akuilah bahwa
Muhammad adalah utusan Allah!" Kata pengemudi kapal itu.
Ikrimah menjawab: "Tidak, jesteru aku melarikan diri adalah karena
ucapan itu."
Selepas itu datanglah isterinya dan berkata: "Wahai Ikrimah putera bapa saudaraku, aku datang menemuimu membawa pesan dari orang yang paling utama, dari manusia yang paling mulia dan manusia yang paling baik. Aku memohon supaya engkau jangan menghancurkan dirimu sendiri. Aku telah memohonkan jaminan keselamatan untukmu kepada Rasulullah SAW."

Kepada isterinya Ikrimah bertanya: "Benarkah apa yang telah engkau lakukan itu?"
Isterinya menjawab: "Benar, aku telah berbicara dengan baginda dan baginda pun akan memberikan jaminan keselamatan atas dirimu." Begitu saja mendengar berita gembira dari isterinya itu, pada malam harinya Ikrimah bermaksud untuk melakukan persetubuhan dengan isterinya, akan tetapi isterinya menolaknya sambil berkata: "Engkau orang kafir, sedangkan aku orang Muslim."
Kepada isterinya Ikrimah berkata: "Penolakan kamu itu adalah merupakan suatu masalah besar bagi diriku."

Tidak lama selepas Ikrimah bertemu dengan isterinya itu, mereka pun pulang kembali, setelah mendengar berita bahwa Ikrimah sudah pulang, maka Rasulullah SAW segera ingin menemuinya. Karena rasa kegembiraan yang tidak terkira, sehingga membuatkan Rasulullah SAW terlupa memakai serbannya.
Setelah bertemu dengan Ikrimah, baginda pun duduk. Ketika itu Ikrimah berserta dengan isterinya berada di hadapan Rasulullah SAW Ikrimah lalu berkata: "Sesungguhnya aku bersaksi bahwa tidak ada Tuhan melainkan Allah dan aku bersaksi bahwa Muhammad adalah utusan Allah." Mendengar ucapan Ikrimah itu, Rasulullah SAW sangat merasa gembira, selanjutnya Ikrimah kembali berkata: "Wahai Rasulullah, ajarkanlah sesuatu yang baik yang harus aku ucapkan."

Rasulullah SAW menjawab: "Ucapkanlah bahwa sesungguhnya tidak ada Tuhan melainkan Allah dan Muhammad adalah hamba-Nya dan Rasul-Nya.
Ikrimah kembali bertanya: "Selepas itu apa lagi?" Rasulullah
menjawab: "Ucapkanlah sekali lagi, aku bersaksi bahwa sesungguhnya
tidak ada Tuhan melainkan Allah dan aku bersaksi bahwa sesungguhnya
Muhammad adalah hamba-Nya dan Rasul-Nya." Ikrimah pun mengucapkan apa
yang dianjurkan oleh Rasulullah SAW selepas itu baginda
bersabda: "Jika sekiranya pada hari ini kamu meminta kepadaku sesuatu

sebagaimana yang telah aku berikan kepada orang lain, niscaya aku
akan mengabulkannya."
Ikrimah berkata: "Aku memohon kepadamu ya Rasulullah, supaya engkau
berkenan memohonkan ampunan untukku kepada Allah atas setiap
permusuhan yang pernah aku lakukan terhadap dirimu, setiap perjalanan
yang aku lalui untuk menyerangmu, setiap yang aku gunakan untuk
melawanmu dan setiap perkataan kotor yang aku katakan di hadapan atau
di belakangmu."

Maka Rasulullah SAW pun berdoa: "Ya Allah, ampunilah dosanya atas setiap permusuhan yang pernah dilakukannya untuk bermusuh denganku, setiap langkah perjalanan yang dilaluinya untuk menyerangku yang tujuannya untuk memadamkan cahaya-Mu dan ampunilah dosanya atas segala sesuatu yang pernah dilakukannya baik secara langsung berhadapan denganku mahupun tidak."

Mendengar doa yang dimohon oleh Rasulullah SAW itu, alangkah senangnya hati Ikrimah, maka ketika itu juga ia berkata: "Ya Rasulullah! Aku bersumpah demi Allah, aku tidak akan membiarkan satu dinar pun biaya yang pernah aku gunakan untuk melawan agama Allah, melainkan akan aku ganti berlipat ganda demi membela agama-Nya. Begitu juga setiap perjuangan yang dahulu aku lakukan untuk melawan agama Allah, akan aku ganti dengan perjuangan yang berlipat ganda demi membela agama-Nya, aku akan ikut berperang dan berjuang sampai ke titisan darah yang terakhir."

Demikianlah keadaan Ikrimah, setelah ia memeluk Islam, ia sentiasa ikut dalam peperangan hingga akhirnya ia terbunuh sebagai syahid. Semoga Allah berkenan melimpahkan kurnia dan rahmat-Nya kepada Ikrimah. Dalam riwayat yang lain pula diceritakan, bahwa ketika terjadinya Perang Yarmuk, Ikrimah juga ikut serta berperang sebagai pasukan perang yang berjalan kaki, pada waktu itu Khalid bin Walid mengatakan: "Jangan kamu lakukan hal itu, karena bahaya yang akan menimpamu adalah lebih besar!" Ikrimah menjawab: "Karena kamu wahai Khalid telah terlebih dahulu ikut berperang bersama Rasalullah SAW, maka biarlah hal ini aku lakukan!"

Ikrimah tetap meneruskan niatnya itu, hingga akhirnya ia gugur di medan perang. Pada waktu Ikrimah gugur, ternyata di tubuhnya terdapat lebih kurang tujuh puluh luka bekas tikaman pedang, tombak dan anak panah. Abdullah bin Mas'ud pula berkata: Di antara orang-orang yang termasuk dalam barisan Perang Yarmuk adalah Haris bin Hisyam, Ikrimah bin Abu Jahal dan Suhail bin Amar. Di saat-saat kematian mereka, ada seorang sahabat yang memberinya air minum, akan tetapi mereka menolaknya. Setiap kali air itu akan diberikan kepada salah seorang dari mereka yang bertiga orang itu, maka masing-masing mereka berkata: "Berikan saja air itu kepada sahabat di sebelahku." Demikianlah keadaan mereka seterusnya, sehingga akhirnya mereka bertiga menghembuskan nafas yang terakhir dalam keadaan belum sempat meminum air itu.

Dalam riwayat yang lain pula ditambahkan: "Sebenarnya Ikrimah bermaksud untuk meminum air tersebut, akan tetapi pada waktu ia akan meminumnya, ia melihat ke arah Suhail dan Suhail pun melihat ke arahnya pula, maka Ikrimah berkata: "Berikanlah saja air minum ini kepadanya, barangkali ia lebih memerlukannya daripadaku." Suhail pula melihat kepada Haris, begitu juga Haris melihat kepadanya. Akhirnya Suhail berkata: "Berikanlah air minum ini kepada siapa saja, barangkali sahabat-sahabatku itu lebih memerlukannya daripadaku." Begitulah keadaan mereka, sehingga air tersebut tidak seorangpun di antara mereka yang dapat meminumnya, sehingga mati syahid semuanya. Semoga Allah melimpahkan kurnia dan rahmat-Nya kepada mereka bertiga.

ISRA BERSAMA RASULULLAH SAW KE LANGIT YANG PALING TINGGI

2009-04-18T15:42:00.000-07:00

Imam Muslim meriwayatkan dalam kitab Shahih-nya dari Anas Ibnu Malik bahwa Rasulullah saw. bersabda, "Didatangkan untukku Buraq yang merupakan hewan putih, panjangnya diatas himar dan dibawah bagal, kukunya berada di akhir ujungnya. Beliau bersabda, `Aku segera menunggainya hingga tiba di Baitul Maqdis.' Beliau bersabda, `Lalu ia mengikatnya dengan tali (rantai) yang biasa dipakai oleh para nabi untuk mengikat.' Beliau melanjutkan, `Kemudian aku memasuki masjid (Baitul Maqdis) dan mendirikan shalat dua rakaat. Setelah itu, aku keluar. Lalu Malaikat Jibril a.s. mendatangiku dan menyodorkan dua buah gelas yang satu berisi khamar dan lainnya berisi susu. Aku memilih gelas yang berisi susu dan Jibril a.s. berkata, `Engkau telah memilih kesucian.'

Kemudian ia naik bersamaku ke langit yang pertama. Jibril meminta dibukakan pintu. Lalu (malaikat penjaga langit pertama) bertanya, `Siapakah kamu.' Jibril a.s. menjawab, `Jibril.' Kemudian ia ditanya lagi, `Siapakah yang besertamu?' Jibril a.s. menjawab, `Muhammad.' Malaikat itu bertanya, `Apakah kamu diutus?' Jibril menjawab, `Ya, aku diutus.' Lalu pintu langit dibukakan untuk kami. Ternyata aku bertemu dengan Nabi Adam a.s. Ia menyambutku dan mendoakanku dengan kebaikan.

Setelah itu Jibril a.s. naik bersamaku kelangit yang kedua dan meminta dibukakan pintu. Lalu pintu langit kedua dibukakan untuk kami. Di sana aku bertemu dengan dua putra paman Isa bin Maryam dan Yahya bin Zakaria a.s., keduanya menyambutku dan mendoakanku dengan kebaikan.

Lalu Jibril a.s. naik bersamaku ke langit yang ketiga dan meminta dibukakan pintu langit ketiga. Lalu pintu langit ketiga dibukakan untuk kami. Di sana aku bertemu dengan Yusuf a.s. yang telah dianugerahi sebagian nikmat ketampanan. Ia menyambutku dan mendoakanku dengan kebaikan.

Kemudian Jibril a.s. naik bersamaku kelangit keempat dan meminta dibukakan pintu langit keempat. Lalu pintu langit keempat dibukakan untuk kami. Di sana aku bertemu dengan Idris a.s. yang menyambutku dan mendoakanku dengan kebaikan. Allah SWT berfirman, `Dan Kami telah mengangkatnya ke martabat yang tinggi.'

Setelah itu Jibril a.s. kembali naik bersamaku kelangit yang kelima dan meminta dibukakan pintu langit kelima. Lalu ia membukakan pintu langit yang kelima untuk kami, Di sana aku bertemu dengan Harun a.s. yang menyambutku dan mendoakanku dengan kebaikan.

Malaikat Jibril a.s. kembali naik bersamaku ke langit yang keenam dan meminta dibukakan pintu untuk kami. Lalu ia membukakan pintu keenam untuk kami. Di sana aku bertemu dengan Musa a.s. yang menyambutku dan mendoakanku dengan kebaikan.

Lalu Jibril a.s. naik lagi bersamaku ke langit yang ketujuh dan meminta dibukakan pintu langit ketujuh. Kemudian malaikat penjaga pintu langit ketujuh membukakan pintu untuk kami. Di sana aku bertemu dengan Ibrahim a.s. yang menyandarkan punggungnya ke Baitul Ma'mur yang setiap harinya dimasuki oleh tujuh puluh ribu malaikat dan tidak kembali kepadanya -sebelum menyelesaikan urusannya.

Setelah itu, ia pergi bersamaku ke Sidratul Muntaha. Ternyata, daun-daunnya sebesar kuping gajah dan buah-buahannya menyerupai buah anggur. Begitu perintah Allah SWT menyelubunginya dan menyelubungi apa-apa yang akan diselubungi, ia segera berubah. Tidak ada seorang makhluk Allah pun yang mampu menyifati keindahan dan keelokannya. Lalu Allah Maha Agung mewahyukan apa-apa yang akan diwahyukan-Nya kepadaku dan mewajibkanku untuk mendirikan shalat lima puluh kali setiap hari sehari semalam. Setelah itu, aku turun menemui Musa a.s.. Ia bertanya kepadaku, `Apakah gerangan yang telah diwajibkan Allah SWT atas umatmu.' Aku menjawab,' Mendirikan shalat sebanyak lima puluh kali.' Kemudian ia berkata, `Kembalilah kepada Rabb-mu dan mohonlah kepada-Nya keringanan. Sesungguhnya umatmu tidak memiliki kemampuan untuk melakukan itu. Sesungguhnya aku telah berpengalaman mencobanya kepada Bani Israel.' Beliau melanjutkan sabdanya, `Kemudian aku kembali kepada Rabb-ku dan memohon, `Wahai Rabb, berikanlah keringan untuk umatku.' Dan Ia mengurangi menjadi lima kali. Setelah itu, aku kembali menemui Musa a.s. dan kukatakan kepadanya, `Ia telah mengurangi menjadi lima kali.' Namun Musa a.s. kembali berkata, `Sesungguhnya umatmu tidak memiliki kemampuan untuk melakukan hal itu. Karena itu kembalilah kepada Rabb-mu dan mohonlah keringanan.' Lalu aku bolak-balik bertemu antara Rabb-ku Yang Maha Tinggi dengan Musa a.s.. Lalu Dia berfirman, `Wahai Muhammad, sesungguhnya kelima shalat itu dilaksanakan setiap sehari semalam. Setiap shalat dihitung sepuluh yang berarti berjumlah lima puluh shalat. Barang siapa yang ingin melakukan suatu kebaikan kemudian tidak melaksanakannya, maka Ku-tuliskan untuknya satu kebaikan. Dan jika ia mengerjakannya, maka Ku-tuliskan untuknya sepuluh kebaikan. Barangsiapa ingin melakukan kejelekan kemudian tidak melakukannya, maka Aku tidak menulis apa-apa padanya. Dan jika ia mengerjakannya, maka Aku menuliskannya satu kejelekan.' Beliau kembali melanjutkan sabdanya, `Lalu aku turun hingga sampai kepada Musa a.s. dan memberitahukan hal tersebut. Musa a.s. berkata, `Kembalilah kepada Rabb-mu dan memohonlah keringanan.' Saat itu Rasulullah saw. bersabda, `Aku katakan kepadanya, `Aku telah berulang kali kembali kepada Rabb-ku hingga aku merasa malu kepada-Nya.'"

KISAH SESENDOK MADU

2009-04-07T23:36:00.001-07:00

Ada sebuah kisah simbolik yang cukup menarik untuk kita simak. Kisah iniadalah kisah tentang seorang raja dan sesendok madu. Alkisah, pada suatuketika seorang raja ingin menguji kesadaran warganya. Raja memerintahkanagar setiap orang, pada suatu malam yang telah ditetapkan, membawa sesendokmadu untuk dituangkan dalam sebuah bejana yang telah disediakan di puncakbukit ditengah kota. Seluruh warga kota pun memahami benar perintah tersebutdan menyatakan kesediaan mereka untuk melaksanakannya.

Tetapi dalam pikiran seorang warga kota (katakanlah si A) terlintas suatucara untuk mengelak, "Aku akan membawa sesendok penuh, tetapi bukan madu.Aku akan membawa air. Kegelapan malam akan melindungi dari pandangan mataseseorang. Sesendok airpun tidak akan mempengaruhi bejana yang kelak akandiisi madu oleh seluruh warga kota."

Tibalah waktu yang telah ditetapkan. Apa kemudian terjadi? Seluruh bejanaternyata penuh dengan air. Rupanya semua warga kota berpikiran sama dengansi A. Mereka mengharapkan warga kota yang lain membawa madu sambilmembebaskan diri dari tanggung jawab.

Kisah simbolik ini dapat terjadi bahkan mungkin telah terjadi, dalamberbagai masyarakat manusia. Dari sini wajar jika agama, khususnya Islam,memberikan petunjuk-petunjuk agar kejadian seperti di atas tidak terjadi:"Katakanlah (hai Muhammad), inilah jalanku. Aku mengajak ke jalan Allahdisertai dengan pembuktian yang nyata. Aku bersama orang-orang yangmengikutiku (QS 12:108)Dalam redaksi ayat di atas tercermin bahwa seseorang harus memulai daridirinya sendiri disertai dengan pembuktian yang nyata, baru kemudian diamelibatkan pengikut-pengikutnya.

"Berperang atau berjuang di jalan Allah tidaklah dibebankan kecuali padadirimu sendiri, dan bangkitkanlah semangat orang-orang mukmin(pengikut-pengikutmu) (QS 4:84)Perhatikan kata-kata "tidaklah dibebankan kecuali pada dirimu sendiri." NabiMuhammad saw. pernah bersabda: "Mulailah dari dirimu sendiri, kemudiansusulkanlah keluargamu." Setiap orang menurut beliau adalah pemimpin danbertanggung jawab atas yang dipimpinnya, ini berarti bahwa setiap orangharus tampil terlebih dahulu. Sikap mental demikianlah yang dapat menjadikanbejana sang raja penuh dengan madu bukan air, apalagi racun.

MEMBUKA PINTU SORGA

2009-04-07T23:35:00.001-07:00

Tidak seperti biasanya, hari itu Ali bin Abi Thalib pulang lebih sore menjelang asar. Fatimah binti Rasulullah menyabut kedatangan suaminya yang sehari suntuk mencari rezeki dengan sukacita. Siapa tahu Ali membawa uang lebih banyak karena kebutuhan di rumah makin besar.

Sesudah melepas lelah, Ali berkata kepada Fatimah. "Maaf sayangku, kali ini aku tidak membawa uang sepeserpun."Fatimah menyahut sambil tersenyum, "Memang yang mengatur rezeki tidak duduk di pasar, bukan? Yang memiliki kuasa itu adalah Allah Ta'ala."

"Terima kasih," jawab Ali.
Matanya memberat lantaran istrinya begitu tawakal. Padahal persediaan dapur sudah ludes sama sekali. Toh Fatimah tidak menunjukan sikap kecewa atau sedih.Ali lalu berangkat ke masjid untuk menjalankan salat berjama'ah.
Sepulang dari sembahyang, di jalan ia dihentikan oleh seorang tua. "Maaf anak muda, betulkah engkau Ali anaknya Abu Thalib?"
Áli menjawab heran. "Ya betul. Ada apa, Tuan?''

Orang tua itu merogoh kantungnya seraya menjawab, "Dahulu ayahmu pernah kusuruh menyamak kulit. Aku belum sempat membayar ongkosnya, ayahmu sudah meninggal. Jadi, terimalah uang ini, sebab engkaulah ahli warisnya."Dengan gembira Ali mengambil haknya dari orang itu sebanyak 30 dinar.Tentu saja Fatimah sangat gembira memperoleh rezeki yang tidak di sangka-sangka ketika Ali menceritakan kejadian itu. Dan ia menyuruh membelanjakannya semua agar tidak pusing-pusing lagi merisaukan keperluan sehari-hari.Ali pun bergegas berangkat ke pasar.

Sebelum masuk ke dalam pasar, ia melihat seorang fakir menadahkan tangan, "Siapakah yang mau menghutangkan hartanya untuk Allah, bersedekahlah kepada saya, seorang musafir yang kehabisan bekal di perjalanan."

Tanpa pikir panjang lebar, Ali memberikan seluruh uangnya kepada orang itu.Pada waktu ia pulang dan Fatimah keheranan melihat suaminya tidak membawa apa-apa, Ali menerangkan peristiwa yang baru saja dialaminya.Fatimah, masih dalam senyum, berkata, "Keputusan kanda adalah yang juga akan saya lakukan seandainya saya yang mengalaminya. Lebih baik kita menghutangkan harta kepada Allah daripada bersifat bakhil yang di murkai-Nya, dan menutup pintu surga buat kita."

Mistery Angka 11

2009-04-07T23:34:00.001-07:00

Silakan dibaca :

1) New York City memiliki 11 huruf.

2) Afghanistan memiliki 11 huruf.

3) Ramsin Yuseb ( terroris yang menyerang twin tower pada 1993 )
memiliki 11 huruf.

4) George W Bush memiliki 11 huruf.

5) Twin tower membentuk angka 11.

Mungkin itu sebuah kebetulan, tetapi coba lihat :

1) New York adalah negara bagian ke 11

2) Pesawat pertama yang menabrak Twin Tower memiliki nomor
penerbangan 11.

3) Pesawat itu mengangkut 92 penumpang, 9+2 = 11.

4) Pesawat 1 lagi yang menabrak Twin Tower mengangkut 65 penumpang,
6+5= 11.

5) Tragedi itu terjadi pada 11 September, 9/11, 9+1+1 = 11

6) Tanggalnya sama dengan pelayanan darurat Amerika yaitu 911,
9+1+1 = 11.

Masih kebetulan? baca ini lagi untuk membangkitkan pemikiran anda :

1) Kejadian ini adalah kecelakaan pesawat ke 254, 2+5+4 = 11.

2) September 11 adalah hari ke 254 dlm tahun itu, 2+5+4 = 11.

3) Pemboman Madrid terjadi pada tgl 3/11/2004, 3+1+1+2+4 = 11.

Masih kebetulan, Nah sekarang adalah bukti yang paling mantap :

Silakan coba yang ini, akan membuat bulumu berdiri :

Buka Microsoft Word dan lakukan seperti yang dibawah :

1. Ketik Q33 NY, ini adalah nomor penerbangan pesawat pertama yang

menabrak Twin Towers.

2. Highlight Q33 NY.

3. Ganti ukuran Font menjadi 48.

4. Ganti jenis Font menjadi WINGDINGS 1

APA YANG KAMU LIHAT ????

Malaikat Yang Menjelma

2009-04-07T15:13:00.000-07:00

"(Ingatlah), ketika malaikat berkata, 'Hai Maryam, sesungguhnya Allahmenggembirakan kamu (dengan kelahiran seorang putra yang diciptakan) dengankalimat (yang datang) daripada-Nya, namanya al-Masih Isa putra Maryam,seorang terkemuka di dunia dan di akhirat dan termasuk orang-orang yangdidekatkan (kepada Allah), dan dia berbicara dengan manusia dalam buaian danketika sudah dewasa dan dia termasuk diantara orang-orang yang saleh."(Ali-Imran:45-46)

Pada saat itu, malaikat Jibril a.s. mengubah bentuknya menjadi manusia yangsangat sempurna, karenanya (Maryam) tidak dapat melihat Jibril a.s. dalambentuk aslinya. Allah berfirman, "Dan ceritakanlah (kisah) Maryam di dalamAl-Qur'an, yaitu ketika ia menjauhkan diri dari keluarganya ke suatu tempatdi sebelah timur. Maka ia mengadakan tabir (yang melindunginya) dari mereka.Lalu Kami utus roh Kami kepadanya, maka ia menjelma di hadapannya (dalambentuk) manusia yang sempurna." (Maryam: 16-17)

Ketika Maryam melihat seorang pemuda yang sangat tampan (penjelmaan malaikatJibril a.s.) di hadapannya, menembus tabir yang dibuatnya, ia mengira bahwapemuda tampan itu ingin berbuat jahat kepadanya. Sementara, dia adalahseorang wanita bersih dan suci yang ditumbuhkan Allah SWT dengan pertumbuhanyang baik. Maka ia segera berlindung kepada Allah SWT, "Sesungguhnya akuberlindung daripadamu kepada Tuhan Yang Maha Pemurah, jika kamu seorang yangbertakwa." "Sesungguhnya aku ini hanyalah seorang utusan Tuhanmu, untukmemberimu seorang anak laki-laki yang suci," ujar Jibril a.s. "Bagaimanaakan ada bagiku seorang anak laki-laki, sedang tidak pernah seorang manusiapun menyentuhku dan aku bukan (pula) seorang pezina?," jawab Maryam tegas."Demikianlah Tuhanmu berfirman, 'Hal itu adalah mudah bagi-Ku dan agar dapatKami menjadikannya suatu tanda bagi manusia dan sebagai rahmat dari Kami.Dan hal itu adalah suatu perkara yang sudah diputuskan,' jawab Jibril a.s.menjelaskan (Maryam: 18-21)

Kadang-kadang para malaikat mengubah bentuk sebagai orang biasa dan menemuisebagian manusia, guna memberikan kabar yang menggembirakannya danmelapangkan dadanya atas perbuatan dan tingkah lakunya yang baik sertakarakteristiknya yang mulia.

Diriwayatkan oleh Imam Muslim dalam kitab Shahih-nya dari Abu Hurairah r.a.
bahwa Rasulullah saw bersabda : "Ada seorang lelaki yang ingin mengunjungi
saudaranya di sebuah desa. Di dalam perjalanannya Allah SWT mengutus seorang
malaikat untuk mengawasinya. Ketika lelaki itu sampai padanya, malaikat itu

berkata, "Kemanakah engkau akan pergi?' Lelaki itu menjawab, 'Aku ingin
mengunjungi saudaraku di desa ini.' Malaikat itu bertanya lagi, 'Apakah
engkau punya kepentingan dari kenikmatan di desa ini?' Lelaki itu menjawab,
'Tidak, hanya saja aku mencintainya karena Allah.' Kemudian malaikat itu
berkata, 'Sesungguhnya aku adalah utusan Allah SWT yang diutus kepadamu,
bahwa Allah juga mencintaimu sebagaimana kamu mencintai-Nya.'"

Diriwayatkan oleh Imam Bukhari dan Muslim dari Abu Hurairah r.a.. Iamendengar Rasulullah bersabda, "Ada tiga orang dari kalangan Bani Israel,yang pertama menderita kusta, kedua berkepala botak, dan ketiga matanyabuta. Allah SWT ingin menguji mereka dengan mengutus salah seorang malaikat.Lalu malaikat itu (yang sudah mengubah bentuk menjadi manusia) mendatangiseorang yang menderita kusta itu sembari bertanya, 'Apakah gerangan yangengkau sukai?' Orang itu menjawab, 'Warna yang bagus, kulit yang mulus, dansembuhnya penyakit yang membuat semua orang merasa jijik padaku.' Kemudianmalaikat itu mengusapnya hingga penyakit yang membuat orang jijik padanyalenyap, serta memberinya warna yang bagus dan kulit yang mulus. Setelah itumalaikat bertanya lagi, 'Harta apakah yang engkau inginkan?' Orang itumenjawab, 'Seekor unta.' Lalu malaikat itu memberikan seekor unta betinayang sedang hamil tua seraya berkata, "Semoga Allah SWT, menganugerahkanberkah-Nya padamu dengan unta ini.'

Kemudian malaikat itu mendatangi orang yang berkepala botak sambil bertanya,'Apakah gerangan yang engkau sukai?' Lelaki itu menjawab, 'Rambut yang bagusdan kesembuhan dari penyakit yang membuat orang jijik padaku.' Malaikatitu mengusapnya kemudian berlalu setelah memberinya rambut yang bagus. Lebihlanjut malaikat itu bertanya, 'Harta apakah yang engkau inginkan?' Lelakiitu menjawab, 'Seekor sapi.' Malaikat itu memberinya seekor sapi yang sedangbunting seraya berujar, 'Semoga Allah menganugerahkan berkah-Nya kepadamudengan seekor sapi ini.'

Setelah itu malaikat tersebut mendatangi orang yang buta dan berkata,'Apakah gerangan yang sangat engkau inginkan?' Lelaki buta menjawab, 'AllahSWT mengembalikan penglihatanku hingga aku bisa melihat manusia.' Malaikatitu mengusapnya dan kembalilah penglihatannya. Selanjutnya malaikat ituberkata, "Harta apakah yang engkau inginkan?' Lelaki itu menjawab, 'Seekorkambing.' Malaikat itu mengabulkannya dengan memberikan seekor kambing yangsedang bunting. Hewan yang ini melahirkan dan yang ini melahirkan. Akhirnya,orang ini memiliki lahan peternakan unta, orang ini memiliki lahanpeternakan sapi dan orang ini memiliki lahan peternakan kambing.

Setelah itu malaikat mendatangi orang yang pernah menderita penyakit kustadengan menyamar sebagai orang tua yang menderita kusta seraya berkata,'Seorang lelaki miskin yang hidup sebatang kara dalam perjalanan hidupnya.Hari ini ia tidak bisa memohon kepada siapa pun kecuali Allah SWT kemudiankepadamu. Aku meminta kepadamu apa-apa yang telah dianugerahkan (Allah SWT)kepadamu, warna yang bagus, kulit yang mulus, dan harta yang berupa untauntuk kelangsungan hidupku.' Lelaki itu berkata, 'Banyak sekali hak-hak yangkau minta.' Malaikat itu berkata, 'Sepertinya aku mengenalmu. Bukankahengkau dulu juga seorang penderita kusta yang dikucilkan masyarakat. Saatitu engkau sangat miskin dan kemudian Allah SWT menganugerahkan kekayaanpadamu?' 'Harta ini kuwarisi secara turun temurun,' ujar lelaki itu dengansombong. 'Jika engkau berbohong, maka Allah SWT mengembalikanmu sepertikeadaan semula…."

Beliau melanjutkan, "Lalu malaikat itu mendatangi orang yang pernahmenderita kebotakan dangan menyamar sebagai seorang lelaki botak sepertidirinya. Ia mengatakan seperti apa yang dikatakannya kepada lelaki yangmenderita kusta di atas. Dan diapun menjawab seperti apa yang dijawab olehrekannya. Kemudian malaikat berkata, 'Jika engkau berbohong, maka Allah SWTakan mengembalikanmu pada keadaanmu semula…'"

Beliau bersabda, "Setelah itu ia mendatangi orang yang pernah kehilanganpenglihatannya dengan menyamar sebagai lelaki tua buta dan berkata, 'Seoranglelaki miskin dan Ibnu Sabil. Dalam perjalanan hidupku aku tidak lagimemiliki siapa-siapa dan tidak memiliki apa-apa. Hari ini tidak adaseorangpun yang kuminta, kecuali Allah SWT kemudian kepadamu. Aku memintaatas nama yang mengembalikan penglihatanmu, seekor kambing guna kelangsunganhidupku. Lelaki itu berkata, 'Aku pernah mengalami kebutaan, lalu Allah SWTmengembalikan penglihatanku seperti sedia kala. Ambilah sesukamu dantinggalkan sesukamu. Demi Allah, hari ini aku tidak akan mempersulit segalasesuatu yang ingin kau ambil, demi Allah. (Yakni aku tidak akanmempersulitmu dengan menolak sesuatu yang ingin kau minta dan kau ambil).'Lalu malaikat itu berkata, 'Peliharalah apa-apa yang kau miliki.Sesungguhnya kalian telah diuji. Sesungguhnya Allah SWT meridhaimu danmemurkai kedua rekanmu.'"

Kisah Qarun

2009-04-07T15:01:00.000-07:00

Abdullah Ibnu Abbas Menjawab Soalan Dari Kaisar Rom

2009-04-07T02:53:00.000-07:00

Diriwayatkan bahawa Kaisar Rom menulis surat kepada Ma'awiyah bin Abi Sufyan yang dibawa oleh seorang utusan. Isi surat tersebut: "Beritahukan kepada saya tentang suatu yang tidak ada kiblatnya (pengimaman), tentang yang tidak punya ayah, tidak punya keluarga (ibu-bapa) dan orang yang dibawa-bawa oleh kuburannya. Juga tentang tiga makhluk yang tidak dicipta dalam rahim, tentang sesuatu, setengahnya dan yang tidak terbilang. Kirimlah kepadaku dalam botol suatu bibit (sumber dari segala sesuatu)". Ma'awiyah r.a. kemudian mengirimkan surat dan botol tersebut kepada Abdullah Ibnu Abbas r.a., pakar dan tokoh ulama fikah agar menjawab surat itu. Ibnu Abbas r.a. menjawab seperti berikut: "Yang tidak punya kiblat (pengimaman) adalah Ka'bah. Yang tidak punya Ayah adalah Isa a.s. Yang tidak punya keluarga (ibu-bapa) ialah Adam a.s. Yang dibawa-bawa oleh kuburannya ialah Yunus a.s. yang ditelan oleh ikan hiu. Adapaun tiga makhluk yang tidak dicipta dalam rahim ialah domba Nabi Ibrahim a.s., unta betina Nabi Saleh as., dan ular Nabi Musa a.s. Adapun 'sesuatu' itu ialah orang berakal yang menggunakan akalnya. Setengah (separuh) dari sesuatu ialah orang yang tidak berakal tetapi mengikuti pendapat orang-orang yang berakal. Adapun yang tidak terbilang (apa-apa) ialah orang yang tidak berakal dan tidak mahu mengikuti fikiran orang-orang yang berakal. Kemudian, beliau mengisi botol sehingga penuh dengan air dan berkata, "Air adalah bibit (sumber) dari segala sesuatu." Jawapan surat Ma'awiyah dikirimkan kepada Kaisar yang menanggapinya dengan penuh kekaguman.

The Miracle of Talking Birds

2007-02-08T03:40:00.000-08:00

Each and every species on Earth has been created with miraculous characteristics and wondrous skills. Even in one single living species, we can find abundant proof of God’s magnificent creation. According to one verse of the Qur’an:

There is no creature crawling on the Earth or flying creature, flying on its wings, who are not communities just like yourselves—We have not omitted anything from the Book—then they will be gathered to their Lord. (Qur’an, 6:38)

This verse draws our attention to birds which, of all living creatures, are worthy of special consideration and observation. There are approximately ten thousand different species of birds, many of which have miraculous characteristics. Wherever we live, we may encounter many of these creatures and can admire the different aspects of each variety. They exhibit countless examples of the evidence of creation, through their aesthetic appearance, their perfect flying mechanisms, their expertise in migration, their nest-making skills and their self-sacrificing behavior. Meanwhile, other species of birds are created with a special aptitude for forming social groups. Many varieties live together as a community, warn one another of danger, work collectively to find food and shelter, and make various sacrifices to help each other out in any number of ways. (For detailed information, see Harun Yahya, Devotion Among Animals: Revealing the Work of God). As God pointed out in the Qur’an, these creatures are capable of establishing their own form of communication and performing in cooperative ways the duties inspired in them by God.

Some birds distinguish themselves by their superior intelligence and special talents. These particular species are defined as birds that can imitate sounds, include the parrots, songbirds, and hummingbirds. Many of us have heard about, seen on television or even personally witnessed these birds’ ability to talk. However, we may not have considered what a great miracle it is that these creatures can mimic in this way, or to the perfection of the way in which God has created them.

These creatures’ being hatched with their ability to talk or imitate sounds is one of the miracles of creation and, at the same time invalidates the claims of evolutionary theory. The Special Design which Enables Birds to Produce Sound

Talking, or even imitating sound, is not just a simple matter of opening and closing the mouth, as some people believe. A complex system is required for this action to take place, and all parts of this system must be synchronized in perfect working order. Birds with a talent for sound mimicry enjoy all of these requirements and demonstrate their ability in extraordinary ways.

Some of these species have a talent rarely found in any other creature except man. The best example of this are parrots, which can imitate, in addition to human speech, a wide range of sounds that even humans can’t duplicate convincingly—for example, as the creaking of a door, the cap being removed from a bottle, a ringing telephone, or a tune being whistled. This talent to imitate, observable in parrots and some other bird species, is not an ability that can be acquired by coincidence. For any living creature to imitate a sound it has heard, it needs to have complex physiological structures already in place. Particularly in the case of birds that can closely imitate the human voice in terms of tone, stress and expression, these structures must be very sophisticated. For a bird to reproduce a word or a melody it has heard, it needs to have an appropriate physical structure. Its sense of hearing must be functioning perfectly, and it must be able to memorize the information received by the senses and the ability to conceptualize meaning in its own terms.

People are astonished the first time they hear a parrot say “Hello!” when the phone rings, ask “Who is it?” when the doorbell rings, or greet someone familiar by name. But even though it’s an astonishing achievement for a bird to say even one word, many don’t really give it due consideration. Over time, they may even come to see it as normal and commonplace.

Not only does the bird see and recognize the person approaching; what’s more, the bird knows how to react to a person it knows. It remembers—and reproduces—words it associates with that person. This is evident proof that the bird has an accurate memory. If we consider that some species of birds seem to understand questions they are asked and give a seemingly logical answer, the issue becomes even more complex. One important example of this is a trained grey parrot by the name of Alex. When he’s presented with a red (rose) piece of paper and asked “What color?” he answers “rose.”1

A bird possessing such talents is a great wonder of creation, for birds and other animals do not have free will and reason, and do not share the human characteristics of thought, the ability to make conscious decisions and the determination to carry them out. The ability to talk and imitate sounds is taught by God to certain species of birds. These creatures do not talk because of their own rational thought, will or consciousness, but through God’s inspiration. In a verse of the Qur’an, God conveys that He is supreme over all living creatures: “… There is no creature He does not hold by the forelock…” (Qur’an, 11:56) All the wondrous characteristics of birds that can imitate sounds are just part of the evidence God shows to man so we may witness the magnificence of His creation.
The Physical Formation of Sound in Birds
You might assume that in order for a parrot to be able to imitate the human voice—to use a person’s same spoken words, stresses and pronunciation—they must possess a larynx whose structure is similar to a human’s. However, the structure of the human larynx bears no resemblance to these creatures’ physical structures. The larynx, vocal cords, tongue, lips, palate and teeth that humans use in speech are completely different in birds, and some do not exist at all. But even though all birds lack these structures, still these species can reproduce phrases spoken by humans—and in the same tones. If we consider that a person without a tongue is unable to speak or that we lose our voice if the vocal cords are damaged, it’s also worth considering that parrots, budgerigars, and mynahs, members of the crow family, have completely different physical characteristics which nevertheless enable them to talk in the same way as humans.

There are other differences between the systems that humans and birds use to produce vocal sounds. We produce most sounds by expelling air from the lungs through the larynx. Different sounds are created, according to the degree of vibration of the vocal cords. The position of the tongue and lips and the flow of air through the mouth or nasal cavity are only a few of the many other factors affecting sound production. The pharynx, found in humans, lets the tongue divide the vocal tract above the larynx into two cavities with their own distinct resonances. Where these resonances occur, the overtones of the frequencies (or number of vibrations) from the vocal cords are amplified. Formants (from the Latin formare: to shape, or form) are resonant frequencies of the vocal tract, the natural shapes that air assumes in the vocal passage. When you make a consonant, for example, this has an effect on the formants of the neighbouring vowels, raising or lowering formants as the vowel sound gets closer to the corsonant. Experiments have shown that two formants are sufficient in order to differentiate speech sounds from each other.2 irds have no larynx similar to a human’s, but do have a special vocal organ, known as the syrinx, that enables them to produce sounds. In birds, air from the lungs passes through this organ. In a sense, the bird’s syrinx is the equivalent of our human larynx. One of the principal differences is that in humans, our vocal cords are positioned closer to the windpipe. So far, the fact that the bird’s syrinx is deep inside the body has prevented scientists from obtaining a complete answer as to how birds produce sound. Scientists have filmed birds using infra-red and x-ray cameras, and have made close studies of their song and speech by means of fiber-optic microscopes inserted in their throats. Yet we still cannot explain the physical process by which birds produce song and imitate sounds.

Within the bird’s breast, its vocal organ is like a branched instrument, located at where its voice box meets the two bronchial tubes. As shown on in the picture, one branch of the syrinx opens into one bronchus and the second branch into the other; and either one of these two bronchi can produce sound. Some birds can use either both sides of their voice organ simultaneously, or one of the two independently and, by this means, can produce two separate tones of the same frequency, at the same time. They can sing a high note with one side, while producing a low note with the other. And since the bird’s vocal organ is situated at the juncture of the two bronchial tubes, it can produce sound from two different sources. This even allows the bird to produce two different notes simultaneously, and even to sing a duet with itself. To a great extent, sounds produced here are subsequently combined, giving birds the potential of creating rich melodies. While humans use only about 2% of the air they inhale to produce sound, birds have the ability to use it all. 3

The syrinx is located in a pouch within the clavicle below the bird’s throat. The membrane covering this pouch is sensitive to the air coming from the lungs, and its elasticity and complexity of the membrane are factors that determine the quality of sounds. The sound quality is also affected by the length of the windpipe, the constriction of the voice box, the neck muscles, structure of the beak, and their respective movements. In short, the complexity of the birds’ syrinx determines the complexity of the sounds they produce. Its muscles affect the air flow and consequently, the quality of the sound. In parrots, budgerigars, and some songbirds, the syrinx has a greater number of muscles, and its structure is more complex. Furthermore, the different techniques that parrots and budgerigars employ for imitating the human voice are most effective. Like humans, parrots have thick tongues that enable them to produce sounds resembling ours. Sound is produced by blowing air through two separate places in their syrinx, and at the same time producing the independent sounds required to produce consonants. The initial sound from the syrinx is shaped with the help of the throat, and then in the mouth with the tongue. In their research studies with grey parrots, Dianne Patterson and Irene Pepperberg reached important conclusions on vowel production: Due to the radically different anatomy of this parrot’s vocal organ, even though they lack teeth and lips, they can produce sounds that closely resemble sounds produced by humans.4 Indeed, parrots and budgerigars can quite clearly imitate sounds such as “m” and “b,” which we normally produce with the help of our lips.

Budgerigars, however, due to their small size, are not able to use the same technique as parrots. Using their syrinx to create frequencies from 2,000 to 3,000 Hz, they then add on a second vibration. This system is known as frequency modulation or FM, the principle behind the AM (amplitude modulation) radios to be found in practically every home. These days, many FM broadcasting stations add low transmitters to their signals which, in common with normal signals, are adjustable through a transmitter, but are of a very high frequency. While the frequency of normal signals varies from 20 to 20,000 Hz, the frequency of many low transmitters starts at 56,000 Hz. The main reason for using the FM system is to offset the major disadvantage of the AM system—namely, the interference of many natural or man-made radio sounds, called “parasites.” Because the weak signals of AM radio are quieter than the stronger ones, differences in signal level are formed, which are then perceived as noise. AM receivers have no facility for cutting out these parasitic sounds.

To solve this problem, Edwin H. Armstrong invented a system for eliminating noise caused by the power of the waves. Instead of changing the transmission signal or the strength of the transmitter, he changed the frequency of sound waves per second. Thanks to this system, the amplitude of noise (strength of sound waves) could be reduced to a minimum. But scientists are still mystified how budgerigars manage to use this same system.

Of course, no little budgerigar can possibly work out for itself from the time it is hatched how to apply a series of principles discovered by man only after long trials. In the same way, no parrot can know that it must produce auxiliary sounds in order to make consonants distinct or to develop systems in its throat to enable it to do so. Also, it’s not possible for such a system to be the end product of a series of blind coincidences. All these complex systems are without doubt, the work of God, the Creator.

There is No Room for Coincidences in God's Creation
Most humans, with their far superior intelligence, have difficulty in imitating other voices or speech while these little birds are able to imitate many sounds they have heard with perfection, showing how exceptionally skilled they are. Scientific research has concluded that this perfect mechanism in birds is a masterpiece of design. God’s supreme knowledge and art, as shown in the magnificence of His creation, is too evident to be obscured by deceitful theories. Swans, peacocks, brightly colored parrots, budgerigars and an infinite variety of living creatures invalidate any claims of coincidence and demonstrate the infinite power of the Lord, our Creator.

Darwinists insist on trying to attribute this perfect system to coincidences. According to their mentality, all the living creatures we see around us, all the skills they possess, and all their aesthetics and beauty are products of blind chance. The truth is, it’s not possible to explain away the consciousness and design seen in all living creatures, at all times, with coincidences. It is purely because of ideology that Darwinists cannot see this evident reality—or rather, they do see it but won’t accept it. These people cling to evolutionary theory out of their belief that it explains the mechanism of life. Accepting that it cannot forces them to accept the only possible and true alternative explanation, which is the truth of creation. This results in the complete collapse of Darwinism and any related materialist ideologies.

The thousands of examples that we see around us, but which the Darwinists pretend not to, are important pieces of evidence that destroy the distorted philosophies of those who deny the miracles of God’s creation. Every person with a conscience will see in the wonderful structures of living creatures, and in the exceptional balance of the universe, the power of our Supreme and Omnipresent Lord. Darwinism and, consequently, the materialist philosophy that has deceived the world for nearly two centuries, will collapse. People will perceive the existence of God and start to live according to the beautiful ethics bidden by our Lord. The invalid system of thought that forms the basis of Darwinism will be completely destroyed, as God makes known in a verse of the Qur’an:

Rather We hurl the truth against falsehood and it cuts right through it and it vanishes clean away! (Qur’an, 21:18)

The Delicate Balance on Earth

2007-02-06T18:42:00.000-08:00

The earth is a living planet where many complex systems run perfectly without stopping at all. When compared to other planets, it is evident that in all its aspects the earth is specially designed for human life. Built on delicate balances, life prevails in every spot of this planet, from the atmosphere to the depths of the earth.

Exploring only a few of the millions of these delicate balances would be sufficient to show that the world we live in is specially designed for us.

One of the most important balances in our planet is revealed in the atmosphere that surrounds us. The atmosphere of the earth holds the most appropriate gasses in the most appropriate ratio needed for the survival not only of human beings, but also of all the living beings on the earth.

The 77% nitrogen, 21% oxygen and 1% carbon dioxide as well as other gasses readily available in the atmosphere represent the ideal figures necessary for the survival of living beings. Oxygen, a gas that is vital for living beings, helps food to be burned and converted into energy in our bodies.If the oxygen quantity in the atmosphere were greater than 21%, the cells in our body would soon start to suffer great damages. The vegetation and hydrocarbon molecules needed for life would also be destroyed. If this quantity were less, then this would cause difficulties in our respiration, and the food we eat would not be converted into energy. Therefore, the 21% oxygen in the atmosphere is the most ideal quantity determined for life.

No less than oxygen, other gasses like nitrogen and carbon dioxide are also arranged in the ideal quantity for the needs of living beings and the continuity of life. The amount of nitrogen in the atmosphere has the ideal ratio to balance the harmful and burning effects of oxygen. This ratio represents the most appropriate value required for photosynthesis, which is essential for life's energy supply on the earth. Moreover, the amount of carbon dioxide has the most appropriate value that is needed to maintain the stability of the surface temperature of the earth and to prevent heat loss especially at night time. This gas, comprising 1% of the atmosphere, covers the earth like a quilt and prevents the loss of heat to space. If this amount were greater, the temperature of the earth would increase excessively, causing climatic instability and posing a serious threat against living beings.

These proportions remain constant thanks to a perfect system. The vegetation covering the earth converts carbon dioxide to oxygen, producing 190 billion tons of oxygen every day. The proportion of other gasses is always kept constant on the earth by the help of interconnected complex systems. Life is thus sustained.

In addition to the establishment of the ideal gas mixture required for life on the earth, the mechanisms needed to preserve and maintain this order are created alongside with it. Any break in the balance, though instantaneous, or any change in the ratios even for a very short time period, would mean the total destruction of life. Yet, this does not happen. The formation of these gasses in the atmosphere just in the amount people need, and the constant preservation of these ratios indicate a planned creation.

At the same time, the earth has the ideal size in terms of magnitude to possess an atmosphere. If the mass of the earth were a little less, then its gravitational force would be insufficient and the atmosphere would be dispersed in space. If its mass were a little greater, then the gravitational force would be too much and the earth would absorb all gasses in the atmosphere. There is an incredibly high number of conditions required for the formation of an atmosphere such as the one our world currently has and all of these conditions should exist altogether to be able to talk of life.

The creation of these delicate proportions and balances in the sky is mentioned in the 7th verse of Surat ar-Rahman:

He erected heaven and established the balance. (Qur'an, 55:7)

The majority of people spend their lives without being aware of the delicate balances and subtle adjustments in the gas composition of the atmosphere, the distance of the world to the sun or the movements of planets. They are ignorant of the great significance of these balances and adjustments to their own lives. However, even a minor deviation in any one of these arrangements would create very severe problems regarding the existence and survival of humankind.

There are many other balances established on earth for the continuity of life:

For instance, if the surface gravity were stronger than its current value, the atmosphere would retain too much ammonia and methane gasses, which would mean the end of life. If it were weaker, the planet's atmosphere would lose too much water, and life on earth would be impossible.

The thickness of the earth's crust constitutes another one of the delicate balances in the earth. If the earth's crust were thicker, too much oxygen would be transferred from the atmosphere to the crust and this would have severe effects on human life.

If the opposite were true, that is, if the earth's crust were thinner, volcanic and tectonic activity would be too great to permit life on earth.

Another crucial balance for human life is the ozone level in the atmosphere. If it were greater than its current value, the surface temperatures would be too low. If it were less, surface temperatures would be too high, and there would be too much ultraviolet radiation at the surface.

In fact, the absence of even a single of these balances would set the end to life on earth. However, Allah has created the universe with infinite wisdom and power and designed the earth specially for human life. Despite this fact, the majority of people lead their lives in total ignorance of these events. In the Qur'an, Allah reminds people of His blessings in the 13th verse of Surat al-Fatir:

(Allah) makes night merge into day and day merge into night, and He has made the sun and moon subservient, each one running until a specified time. That is Allah, your Lord. The Kingdom is His. Those you call on besides Him have no power over even the smallest speck. (Qur'an, 35:13)

It is sufficient look at millions of dead planets in space in order to understand that the delicate balances required for life on earth is not a result of random coincidences. The conditions essential for life are too complicated to have been formed 'on their own' and at random, and these conditions are specially created for life alone.

These balances we have briefly described so far are only a few of the millions of intricate, interrelated balances and orders established so that people can live in peace and safety on the earth.

Examining only a part of the balances and harmony on the earth is enough to comprehend the superior being of Allah and grasp the existence of a planned creation in every detail of the universe. It is no doubt impossible for a person or any other living being to build such an enormous balance and order. Nor are the components of this order such as atoms, elements, molecules, and gasses capable of establishing an order based on such intricate and extremely delicate calculations and measurements, and such fine tunings. This is because activities like planning, ordering, arranging, calculating, and proportioning can only be realized by beings that possess wisdom, knowledge and power. The Exalted Being Who orders, plans and balances the entire universe to be fit for life of human beings on a planet like earth and Who sustains it with dramatically delicate measures and balances is Allah, Who has Infinite Wisdom, Knowledge and Power.

In the Qur'an, it is stated that those people who are able to realize these facts are only 'people with intelligence':

In the creation of the heavens and the earth, and the alternation of night and day, there are Signs for people with intelligence: those who remember Allah, standing, sitting and lying on their sides, and reflect on the creation of the heavens and the earth: "Our Lord, You have not created this for nothing. Glory be to You! So safeguard us from the punishment of the Fire." (Qur'an, 3:190-191)

"Effects Of Prohibited Foods, Intoxicants, And Ingredients

2007-02-06T18:05:00.000-08:00

by Shahid Athar, M.D.

Quranic Prohibitions:

FOOD:

2: 173
" He has forbidden you dead meat, and blood, and flesh of swine , and on which any other name has been invoked besides that of Allah. But if one is forced by necessity without willful disobedience, nor transgressing, due limits.... than he is not guilty, for Allah is forgiving, merciful."

5:4
" Forbidden to you are: Dead meat, blood, the flesh of swine and that on which has been invoked a name other than Allah's, and that killed by strangling, or by a violent blow, or by a headlong fall, or by being gored to death: That which has been eaten by a wild animal: Unless you are able to slaughter it, that which has been sacrificed on stone: (forbidden) also is the divination of arrows: that is impiety.

6:145
"Say: I find not in the Message received by me by inspiration any meat forbidden to be eaten by one who wishes to eat of it, unless it be dead meat, or blood poured forth, or the flesh of swine, for it is an abomination, - or what is impious, (meat) on which a name has been invoked, other than God's. But even so, if a person is forced by necessity without wilful disobedience, nor transgressing due limits, - Your Lord is Oft-Forgiving , Most Merciful."

16:115
"He has-only forbidden you dead meat, and blood; and the flesh of swine, and any (food) over which the name of other than God has been invoked. But if one is forced by necessity without wilful disobedience, nor transgressing due limits, - Your Lord is Oft-Forgiving , Most Merciful."

INTOXICANTS: 2:219
"They ask you concerning wine and gambling. Say: "In them there is great sin, and some profit, for men, but sin is greater than the profit."

4:43
"O you who believe! Approach not prayers, with a mind befogged, until you can understand all that you say."

5:90
"O you who believe! Intoxicants and gambling, (dedication of) stones, and (divination by) arrows, are an abomination of Satan's handiwork. Avoid such (abomination) that you may prosper."

5:91
"Satan's plan is to sow enmity and hatred among you with intoxicants and gambling, and to hinder you from the remembrance of Allah and from prayer. Will you not then give up."

PROPHET MOHAMMED (PBUH)ON THE SUBJECT OF LAWFUL AND PROHIBITED.

I. "That which is lawful is plain and that which is unlawful is plain and between the two of them are doubtful matters about which many people do not know. Thus he who avoids doubtful matters clears himself in regards to his religion and his honour, but he who falls into doubtful matters falls into that which is unlawful."
(narrated by Abu Abdullah An Numan Bin Bashar-R.A. Reported in Bukhari and Muslim.)

2. "Allah the Almighty has laid down religious duties, so do not neglect them; He has set boundaries, so do not cross them; He has prohibited some things, so do not violate them; about some things. He was silent out of compassion for you, not due to forgetfulness-, so do not seek after them."
(narrated by Abu Tbalaba Al Khushani Jurtum Bin Nashir-R.A.reported in Ad-Daraqutni.)

3. "Allah the Almighty is pure and accepts only that which is pure. Allah has asked the believers to do that He asked the messengers, and the Almighty has said: (23:5 1) " 0 you messengers! Eat of the pure things and do right." And Allah the Almighty has said: (2:172) "O you who believe! Eat of the pure things that we have provided you." Then the Prophet (pbuh) gave example of a man tired and dusty after a long journey, raises his hands to the sky and says: "O Lord! 0 Lord!".. while his food is unlawful, Ns drink is unlawful, his clothing is unlawful, and he is nourished unlawfully, so how can his prayers be answered?"
(Narrated by Abu Huraira-R.A. reported in Muslim.)

INTRODUCTION:
It is not required of the believer to always find a scientific justification for the divine prohibitions.However, if they look and find it, they must share the information, that will increase their faith. To the contrary, lack of confirmation should not question the authenticity of the Quran. We believe that all Quranic statements are true, and if science has not confirmed some of them yet, it will do so in the future, may be it needs to examine its data more deeply or repeat the experiment.

For the benefits of non-medical readers, before I describe the topic in question i.e. hormonal and behavioral effect of prohibited food, intoxicants and ingredients, I must define some medical terms and inter-relationships:

HORMONES:
These are the powerful secretions of Endocfine (internal) glands. They control the functions of all organs, and even individual cells. They are made from proteins (peptides) or sterols in nature. The endocrine glands are hypothalmus which secretes various releasing hormones for pituitary, and pituitary which secretes hormones for target endocrine glands. Both of them are inside the brain. Target endocrine glands are thyroid hormones. Thyroid hormones control our metabolism, energy level, and temperature tolerance. Behind them are para-thyroid gland which control our calcium metabolism. In the abdomen are adrenal glands above the kidneys which secrete cortisone, the life saving essential hormone, and catecholamines and aldosterone which control our blood pressure and heart-rate. steroids and catecholamines are derived from cholesterol. Also in the abdomen is the pancreas which secretes insulin which lowers blood sugar, and glycogen which raises a low blood sugar. Lower down in the pelvis are gonads, ovaries in women, and testes in men, which secrete estrogen, progesterone and testosterone respectively. All these hormones have internal control, and influence each other. They control our growth, muscle mass, bone development, temperature tolerance, blood pressure, energy, fertility, sex desire, thirst, and well being in general.

HOW DO HORMONES AFFECT BEHAVIOR:
The site of secretion of releasing hormone, and of neurotransmitter in the brain are the same in the hypothalmic area. Most of the psychotropic drugs either act by increasing or decreasing the neurotransmitter levels i.e epinephrine, norepinephrine, serotonin, dopamine or endorphrin level in the hypothalmic area. Similarly, peurotransmitters influence hormone secretion.

Clinically we see various behavioral manifestations in endocrine disorders. Hypoglycemic patients (low blood sugar) suffer from depression and poor mental concentration and patients with low thyroid have impotency and depression, while patients with high thyroid have agitation, irritability, and lack of sleep. Patients with low cortisone (Addison Disease) have severe depression while with high cortisone have hallucination and psychosis. Patients with high testosterone have been claimed to have criminal tendencies (i.e. rapists) while low testosterone have behavioral problems in adjustment. Patients with calcium changes.

Physiologically, boys and girls are different in playing behavior i.e. aggressive versus passive (playing with mechanical toys and guns versus dolls) due to difference in their sex hormone even in pre-pubertal age. This becomes more obvious after full sex differentiation takes place. In fact, by changing the sex hormone level of a given sex one can change not only the sexual behavior but the aggressiveness of a particular sex. Homosexual males have been noted to have less male sex hormones, and on the other hand, repeated sex offending males can be "cured" by castration or by the injection of the female hormone progesterone. In one experiment, female rats whose mothers were treated with testosterone while pregnant showed male behavior pattern of threatening peer, rough play, and increased sexual activity as compared to a control rat. This shows that testosterone not only affects the individual, but the offspring as well. Girls with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (excessive testosterone secretion) when in post puberty age show tomboy attitude with liking rough sports, preferring boys as playmates, and low interest in dolls and baby care. Sexual behavior is not only affected by testosterone, but also by the pineal gland which is turned off and on by light and darkness.

Hormones, not directly but indirectly by controlling\sugar, calcium, sodium balance,affect behavior in general to include anger, love, anxiety, panic attacks, and agitation. The hyperactivity in children could be due to low blood sugar or due to many food preservatives and coloring agent like nitrites, and Dye No. 5.

After this much introduction of hormones, and behavior, I turn to the main theme.

HORMONAL AND BEHAVIORAL EEFFECT OF PORK MEAT AND FAT INGESTION:
Pork meat and fat are not only prohibited to Muslims, but were also prohibited to Jews and Christians as well because "Swine were designed to be scavengers, to eat up filth." In old testament Leviticus Chapter 7-8, it is mentioned about swine " Though he divides the hoof and be cloven footed, yet he cheweth not the cud, he is unclean to you. Of their flesh shall you not eat." There is no mention in the Bible that Jesus ever ate pork in his life. It was Paul who declared all food and drink permissible saying, "To the pure, everything is pure."

THE LIFE OF THE SWINE:
To get a first hand idea, I interviewed farmers of Fisher, Indiana, who breed swine. According to them "Swine is cheaper to breed, since it does not require pasture, it can live on manure and other such items including dead meat. In fact, it can even eat its own feces. Their sexual habits are also different from other animals like cow, sheep and goat. Swine have very little shame i.e. engage in sex acts anytime anyplace. The female hog is very aggressive in sexual activities when she is in "heat" she does not care about anything (i.e. food or privacy) until she has the sex. They i.e. swine, also lick the genitals of their partners after sex like dogs, but not other mammals like cow, sheep or goat."

WHY IS PORK FAT DIFFERENT FROM OTHER ANIMAL FAT:
Fats are lipids which are a source of energy. They can be of vegetable source or of animal source. Triglycerides are neutral fats with 1 molecule of glycerol and three fatty acids. The fatty acids can be saturated or unsaturated.The more unsaturated fats have high melting points. The iodine value of fat gives the degree of un saturation. The iodine value of lard is 65, beef 45, and mutton 32. After ingestion, emulsification of fat takes place in the stomach by gastric lipase. By pancreatic lipase hydrolysis of triglyceride into glycerol and fatty acids takes place. The fatty acids and glycerol are used by various tissues like muscle, heart, kidney, and liver for an energy source. Herbivorous (plant eating) animals have unsaturated fatty acid on the position 2 of the triglyceride (tg) molecule, while the carnivorous (meat eating )animals have saturated fatty acid at the position 2. Pancreatic lipase (pl) can not hydrolyze TG molecule if saturated fatty acid at position 2. Fat of dogs, rats, cats, and pork, have saturated fatty acids on positions 2. If a person eats fat of herbivomus animal, the fat will be hydrolyzed, absorbed, and then re synthesized and stored as human fat, while that of carnivorous animals and pork fat will not be hydrolyzed and therefore has to be deposited in humans as pork fat in the adipose tissue.

WHAT HAS DEPOSITION OF PORK FAT TO DO WITH HORMONE AND BEHAVIOR IN HUMANS:
Circulating hormones are in bound form and free form. The free form has to be attached to receptor in fat tissue before becoming active. Obesity decreases the number of receptors therefore the hormones cannot be utilized. Therefore, if the hormone is insulin, it leads to diabetes (type 2); and if it is testosterone, it leads to sub fertility and amenorrhea. The amount of fat also controls hormone release. Therefore we see menarche is delayed in athletic girls with less fat, and occurs early in sedentary overweight girls.

It can be postulated that in humans who have pork fat deposit there is derangement in the binding of hormones, therefore they have a higher level of circulating active hormone. It is possible that the sexual promiscuity and deviant sexual practices of pork eating society is due to what they eat ! After all, it has been said by nutritionists, "Yor are what you eat."

Since this is a paper on hormones and behavior, the time does not permit discussing the effect of pork on cholesterol, sodium and the relationship to heart disease.

EFFECTS OF DEAD MEAT AND BLOOD INGESTION:
Dead meat is the meat of animal which died before slaughtering and blood could not flow out, and blood ingestion is not only the drinking of blood as it was prevalent in the Jahiliya of Arabia or even now in Africa (and in France) but also the blood which is retained inside the meat by improper killing of the animal. All hormones, and antibodies are retained in the blood, and all infective organisms including virus flourish in the blood media, therefore ingestion of such will be dangerous midecally. It may also induce animal instincts as seen in carnivorous animals like dogs, cats, and lions.

HORMONAL EFFECTS OF ALCOHOL:
Both in acute and chronic alcoholism, endocrine glands are affected. Hypoglycemia is a manifestation of acute alcoholism which may be severe, and can lead to coma. This should be recognized and treated with dextrose intravenously since it mat not respond to glycogen. Low magnesium with resultant low calcium is another effect resulting in poor concentration, muscle twitching and even seizure. Increase in urine flow is due to depression of antidiuretic hormone.

Chronic alcoholism leads to pancreatitis with failure of pancreatic endocrine system (sometimes Diabetes) and exocrine gland (malnutrition). This leads to protein deficiency leading to reduced production of testosterone, which may lead to impotency, gynecomastia in men and amenorrhea in women. Alcoholics can also have a pseudo (false) cushing syndrome. Alcohol related liver disease causes increased clearance of testosterone with testicular atrophy leading to true hypogonadism. Sperm formation is also affected leading to infertility. Infants born to an alcoholic mother can also have undercended testes and labial hypoplasia. In addition, the cortisol levels are increased during withdrawal, while LH and LH-RH levels are suppressed during chronic alcoholism.

BEHAVIORAL EFFECTS OF ALCOHOL:
Alcohol, being a central nervous system depressant, depresses both facilitatory and inhibitory pathways. It is the suppression of the latter that abolishes the shame and removes control. Therefore, what a normal person will be prevented from doing i.e. abusive language, undressing in public, etc. will not be prevented under the influence of alcohol. There are more serious behavioral disorders described to include brain disjunction in 50- 70%, memory loss, depression both acute and chronic, high suicide rate, mood fluctuation, delirium tremorous (DTS) in withdrawal state, and blackout spells during drinking. One-third of all auto accidents are due to alcoholism. Under the influence of alcohol are mental judgement and motor skills, which are both affected. Sometimes the level of consciousness is also affected. Alcohol had been found to be at the root of family violence, sexual violence, rape, assault, and child abuse.

Alcohol is not an aphrodisiac, as it is claimed. Not only does it depress the central nervous system's effect on the libido, but actually lowers the penile blood flow and tumescence (swelling) thereby decreasing the performance.

EFFECTS OF NARCOTICS (COCAINE & MARIJUANA) ON HORMONES AND BEHAVIOR:
Both LSD and cocaine cause decreases in plasma testosterone and LH. The aphrodisiac effect is due to local anesthesia causing prolonged erection and central stimulation causing general well being. Also by inhibiting the inhibitions, they encourage engagement in unusual sex acts like sodomy or oral genital sex.

Psychologically they cause mood elation and a false sense of euphoria followed by depression, anxiety and agitation Panic attacks, suicidal tendencies, and violent behaviors are not uncommon. Chronic usage may lead to schizophrenia, paranoia, and a variety of psychiatric disorders, even infants born to cocaine addicted mothers show signs of withdrawal.

EFFECTS OF INGREDIENTS ON HORMONES AND BEHAVIOR:
If ingredients are of prohibited nature, i.e. pork, lard, alcohol, cocaine etc., the effect will be as described earlier, though because of the small quantity, the effect will be slow and may be cumulative.

More serious are items like sugar which causes reactive hypoglycemia; sodium which may lead to hypertension; DES (Diethylstillbestrol, a female hormone given to cattle and chickens to increase fat and muscle content) linked to vaginal and cervical cancer in women; and artificial sweeteners like saccharine related to bladder cancer in rats, and aspartame related to brain damage.

CONCLUSION:
More research is needed on all of the above areas, especially those affecting the life style of Muslims. Though usage of prohibited items are not commonly found in Muslims, the dangers also may come to their health and spirits by the effects of non-prohibited items like western rock music, dress (i.e. tight jeans affecting testicular temperature) and sexual practices, and cigarette smoking.

SELECTED REFERENCES:

1. -Qur'an;2:173,5:4,6:145,16:115,2:219,4:43,5:98,5:91.

2. - Yusaf Al Qardawi; The Lawful and Prohibited in Islam: 39-61.

3. - Hussaini, M.M. and A.H. Sakr. 1983, Islamic Dietary Laws and
Practices, Published by the Islamic Food and Nutiition Council of
America, Chicago, Illinois U.S.A.

4. -William,R.H.;Test Book of Endocrinolocy. 6th edition:chapter on
Psychoendocrinology.

5. - Felig & Baxter; Endocrinology and Metabolism.

6. - Goodart & Shils; Modern Nutrition in Health And Disease: 6th edition.

7. -Badri,M.B.; Islam and Alcoholism: ATP Publication, lndianapolis.

8. - Saud, M.A.; Sex Roles in Muslim Families in U.S.A.; Published in Al-ittihad.

9. - Drucker, WM.; Endocrinc Abnormalities caused by Alcobolism;
Medical Aspect of Human Sexuality-Vol. 16, No. 12, Dec. 1982.
10. - Eckardt et a]; Health Hazard Associated with Alcohol Consumption: JAMA 1981.

11. - Washton and Stone; Human Cost of Cocaine Use; Medical Aspects
of Human Sexuality-Vol. 18, No. II, Nov. 1984.

PRESENTED ON:

September 20, 1986 at the Fourth Annual Convention of the Islamic
Food and Nutrition Council of America, held at the Muslim Community Center, Chicago.

WHAT THEY SAY ABOUT MUHAMMAD

2007-02-04T00:04:00.000-08:00

During the Crusades, all sorts of slanders were levelled against the Prophet Muhammad. With the birth of the modern age, which is characterized by a greater degree of religious tolerance and freedom of thought, there has been a change in the approach of western authors who study the Prophet's life and characters. A sampling of their views is given below.

Unfortunately, the West still has not realized the greatest aspect of the Prophet: he is the last of the prophets sent by God to guide mankind to the truth. In spite of its great advances in other areas of life, the West still has not made a sincere and objective attempt to understand the message brought by the Prophet. Although some people have seen him as a person worthy of high praise and have paid him glowing tributes on the levels of personal integrity and achievement, his claim of being the Prophet of God has almost always been rejected, either explicitly or implicitly, as false. It is time to treat this last claim with a spirit of true objectivity and open-mindedness.
Just who was Muhammad? According to all accounts, which are authentic and accepted by all Muslim scholars, up until the age of forty he was known to his people as a decent man. He was not a statesman, a preacher, or an orator. He was never seen discussing principles or theories associated with metaphysics, ethics, law, politics, economics, or sociology. He possessed an excellent character, charming manners, and was highly cultured. But his characteristics are not so deeply striking and so radically extraordinary that people would expect something great and revolutionary from him in the future.

One of Muhammad's customs was to retire to a nearby cave for private sessions of thinking and meditation. This in itself was not unusual, for other people also did this. But when he came out of his cave after receiving the first revelation, he was completely transformed.

Several questions need to be asked here. Is it possible for a person known and respected for his honesty and trustworthiness to announce suddenly that he is the Prophet of God and then begin to call upon his people to abandon their old lives and beliefs for new ones? Also, if he were a false prophet, why did he suffer through all of the hardships that his people imposed upon him? And why, when his people offered to accept him as their king and to lay all the riches of the land at his feet, if only he would cease and desist, did he refuse to do so? Why did he continue to preach Islam in the face of all kinds of insults, social boycott, and even physical assault by his own people?

Was it not only God's support, along with his firm will, to disseminate the Islamic revelation and his deep-rooted belief that ultimately Islam would emerge as the sole universal religion, that he refused to be cowed and swayed by any of the opposition and plots launched against him by his enemies? Furthermore, if he intended to use Islam as a rival religion against Judaism and Christianity, why did he make belief in Jesus Christ, Moses, and all of the other prophets of God a basic requirement of the Islamic faith?

Is it not an incontrovertible proof of his prophethood that, despite being unlettered and having led a very normal and quiet life for forty years, that all of Arabia stood in awe and wonder of his wonderful eloquence and oratory when he began to preach Islam? It was so matchless that legions of Arab poets, preachers, and orators of the highest caliber failed to produce a composition that could compare with or equal it. And, above all, how could he state scientific truths that would not be known by to the rest of humanity for centuries and that he could not learn about in any other way except through divine revelation?

Last but not least, why did he lead an even harder life after gaining power and authority? Just ponder the words he uttered when he was dying: "We, the community of the Prophets, do not inherit. All that we leave is for charity"

Consider what others have said about this extraordinary man:

If greatness of purpose, smallness of means, and astounding results are the three criteria of human genius, who could dare to compare any great man in modem history with Muhammad? The most famous men created arms, laws and empires only They founded, if anything at all, no more than material powers which often crumbled away before their eyes This man moved not only armies, legislation, empires, peoples and dynasties, but millions of men in one-third of the then-inhabited world; and more than that he moved the altars, the gods, the religions, the ideas, the beliefs and souls.... His forbearance in victory, his ambition which was entirely devoted to one idea and in no manner striving for an empire, his endless prayers, his mystic conversations with God, his death and his triumph after death-all these attest not to an imposture but to a firm conviction which gave him the power to restore a dogma. This dogma was twofold: the unity of God and the immateriality of God; the former telling what God is, the latter telling what God is not; the one overthrowing false gods with the sword, the other starting an idea with the words. Philosopher, orator, apostle, legislator, warrior, conqueror of ideas, restorer of rational dogmas, of a cult without images; the founder of twenty terrestrial empires and of one spiritual empire, that is Muhammad. As regards all standards by which human greatness may be measured, we may well ask, is there any man greater than he?

- Lamartine Histoire de la Turquie, Pans 1854, Vol. 11, pp. 276-77.

It is not the propagation but the permanency of his religion that deserves our wonder; the same pure and perfect impression which he engraved at Mecca and Madina is preserved, after the revolutions of twelve centuries by the Indian, the African and the Turkish proselytes of the Koran... The Mahometans have uniformly withstood the temptation of reducing the object of their faith and devotion to a level with the senses and imagination of man. I believe in One God and Mahomet is the Apostle of God' is the simple and invariable profession of Islam. The intellectual image of the Deity has never been degraded by any visible idol; the honors of the prophet have never transgressed the measure of human virtue; and his living precepts have restrained the gratitude of his disciples within the bounds of reason and religion.

- Edward Gibbon and Simon Ocklay History of the Saracen Empire, London 1870, p 54.

He was Caesar and Pope in one; but he was Pope without Pope's pretensions, Caesar without the legions of Caesar: without a standing army, without a bodyguard, without a palace, without a fixed revenue. If ever any man had the right to say that he ruled by the right divine, it was Mohammad, for he had all the power without its instruments and without its supports.

- Bosworth Smith Mohammad and Mohammadanism, London 1874, p 92.

It is impossible for anyone who studies the life and character of the great Prophet of Arabia, who knows how he taught and how he lived, to feel anything but reverence for that mighty Prophet, one of the great messengers of the Supreme. And although in what I put to you I shall say many things which may be familiar to many, yet I myself feel whenever I re-read them, a new way of admiration, a new sense of reverence for that mighty Arabian teacher.

- Annie Besant The Life and Teachings of Muhammad, Madras 1932, p 4

His readiness to undergo persecution for his beliefs, the high moral character of the men who believed in him and looked up to him as leader, and the greatness of his ultimate achievement all argue his fundamental integrity To suppose Muhammad an impostor raises more problems than it solves. Moreover, none of the great figures of history is so poorly appreciated in the West as Muhammad.

- W Montgomery Watt Mohammad At Mecca, Oxford, 1953, p 52.

Muhammad, the inspired man who founded Islam, was born about AD. 570 into an Arabian tube that worshipped idols. Orphaned at birth, he was always particularly solicitous of the poor and needy the widow and the orphan, the slave and the downtrodden. At twenty he was already a successful businessman, and soon became director of camel caravans for a wealthy widow. When he reached twenty-five his employer, recognizing his meet, proposed marriage. Even though she was fifteen years older, he married her, and as long as she lived remained a devoted husband. Like almost every major prophet before him, Muhammad fought shy of serving as the transmitter of God's word, sensing his own inadequacy But the angel commanded Read'. So far as we know, Muhammad was unable to read or write, but he began to dictate those inspired words which would soon revolutionize a large segment of the earth: "There is one God." In all things Muhammad was profoundly practical. When his beloved son Ibrahim died, an eclipse occurred, and rumors of God's personal condolence quickly arose. Whereupon Muhammad is said to have announced,' An eclipse is a phenomenon of nature. It is foolish to attribute such things to the death or birth of a human-being." At Muhammads own death an attempt was made to deify him, but the man who was to become his administrative successor killed the hysteria with one of the noblest speeches in religious history: 'If there are any among you who worshipped Muhammad, he is dead. But if it is God you worshipped, He lives for ever'.

James A. Michene~ "Islam: The Misunderstood Religion," Reader's Digest (Amencan ea.) May 1955, pp. 68-70.

My choice of Muhammad to lead the list of the world's most influential persons may surprise some readers and may be questioned by others, but he was the only man in history who was supremely successful on both the religious and secular level.

Michael H. Hart The 100: A Ranking of the Most Influential Persons in History, New York: Hart Publishing Company Inc. 1978, p 33.