Living Halal in a Muslim-Minority Country

Blogs Living Halal in a Muslim-Minority Country Exploring Halal and Spirituality at the Cape I grew up in South Africa, as a Muslim, during Apartheid. I was certainly a minority, due to my religion. Rarely however, did I give any thought to how accessible halal food was, for me and other South African Muslims. Even though I lived in an oppressive country, I could worship freely and had access to halal food. Given my circumstances, I took it for granted that this was my norm. Only once I started traveling, did I realize the struggle of finding halal food. Being Muslim in South Africa is a blessing that I did not know I had, until I did not have it anymore. In the ’90s, my husband and I moved to the UK. Despite living there for several years, finding halal food was a continuous struggle. Funny enough, in the area we lived in, there was a large Muslim presence. But finding a mosque to pray in was a struggle as well. In South Africa, grocery shopping, or even getting takeout, has always been a relatively easy experience for me. I was always assured that these items were almost always halal-certified and safe for me to consume. In Cape Town, there are several Muslim-owned butchers, which meant that halal meat was readily available. In fact, all meat, except pork (obviously), had been slaughtered according to Islamic standards, at the slaughterhouses. As a result, my UK experience of not finding halal food or a mosque to pray in, was rather strange, and quite frankly, an inconvenience. Upon my return to South Africa, not being able to find halal food in the UK had been an eye-opener for me to appreciate the everyday blessing of being able to live halal in South Africa. The halal issue aside, South Africa – specifically Cape Town – is blessed with a religious community who are of a high spiritual caliber. We are blessed with an abundance of mosques and Islamic institutions. In many neighborhoods, the call to prayer can be heard floating across the horizon. Muslims are free to adhere to the dress of their faith without fear of being a spectacle. Therefore, it would be safe to say that the Muslim presence in South Africa is strong and visible – despite it being a country in which Muslims are the minority. This got me thinking: How did this come about? What has paved the way for Muslims to be so free and comfortable in this complex country?  I have realized that for some time now, there has been a revival of Islam within South Africa and the Cape. I reference Cape Town because it is my city of birth, and I have personally witnessed this revival. For some, there is the opinion that the Muslim community in Cape Town is more synonymous with culture than religious practice. For instance, Capetonian Muslims or ‘Cape Malay’s are known for Thursday night gatherings spent in remembrance of God. This weekly vigil is referred to as “ghadaad.” At a “ghadaad,” Muslims would remember Allah through specific chants and eat delicacies that are indigenous to the community, such as the koeksister (a spicy donut dipped in syrup and coated with fine coconut…mmm very delicious!) and boeber (a warm milky drink flavored with rose water and brimming with almonds, pistachios, and sultana raisins!). The Cape Malays were famous for their big weddings. There are many traditions attached to the matrimonial ceremony, such as the Malay choir, where singers would belt out songs and choirs would compete with each other for top honors at an annual competition. However, my favorite association with Cape Malays is Bo Kaap. “Bo Kaap” is an Afrikaans term that means “above Cape Town.” It is situated at the top of the city of Cape Town, located at the foot of the iconic Lion’s Head mountain, where the Indonesian slaves of the Dutch were housed. Today, the area is quaint and picturesque with its colorful houses, worthy of an Instagram post. However, behind the colorful houses lies a painful past, which has shaped and influenced the Cape Town Muslim community. Growing up, we were taught that the Cape Town Muslim community descended from Indonesian slaves known as “Cape Malays.” This was what the history books of the apartheid-era were feeding us. While the sentiment is not entirely false, it does not encompass the full truth. The Muslim community also descends from a line of noble princes and learned men. [1] These men stood up against Dutch oppression and injustice in the 16th century. My descendants were men who were prepared to die for their faith and land. One of the key proponents of oppression was Jan van Riebeek. Van Riebeek, a disgraced Dutch official, arrived in the Cape of Good Hope, now Cape Town, in 1652 to establish a refreshment station for Dutch ships sailing around the coast of Africa on their way to plunder the east. At that same time, the Dutch were waging a war of occupation against the Indonesian people for ownership of their lands and control of the spices. Led by Imams and chiefs, the Indonesians fought against the Dutch for their freedom. There is documented evidence that the first political prisoner arrived in 1654 and that he was a Muslim. Among the first political exiles from the island of Sumatra to arrive in the Cape were Sheikh Abdurahman Matabe Shah and Sheikh Mahmood. [2] According to Abdul Kader Tayob 1996 and Ebrahim Moosa 1995,  “Amongst them were exiled leaders of the resistance against the Dutch colonizers. Some of these dissidents, such as Tuan Guru of Tidore (Imam’ Abdallah Qadi’ Abd as-Salam, 1712-1807) and sheikh Yusuf of Macassar (‘Abidin Tadia Tjoessoep of Macassar, 1629-1699) were religious scholars and played a decisive role with regard to the spiritual foundations of the emerging Muslim communities in the Cape. Both are part of the South African Muslim imagination and are regarded as the symbols of resistance against oppression.” [3]

What is Islamic Banking

Blogs What is Islamic Banking The Future of Finance Islam is an all-encompassing religion that establishes guidelines and rules, for all aspects of life. Islam leaves out no aspect untouched, whether it is rulings that govern our interactions with others, wildlife and animals, and even our finances. Among those rulings, is the concept of Islamic banking. Islamic banking is a form of banking that strictly adheres to Islamic guidelines and principles. It has the same purpose as conventional banking except that it must be consistent with Fiqh al-Muamalat (Islamic rules on transactions). Islamic banking arose out of a need for a banking system that is aligned with Islam’s economic principles. It is based on two fundamental principles: the prohibition of interest, and the sharing of profit and loss. At this point, you might ask, “Is Islamic banking only meant for Muslims alone?” The answer is a definite no. Islamic banking is for Muslims and non-Muslims; it does not discriminate. However, what is required, is a willingness and readiness to abide by the guidelines of Islamic banking. There are plenty of benefits associated with banking Islamically. Did you know that Islamic banking has specific policies to ensure that you make financial gains? Whether you’re banking in your personal capacity, firm, or as an investor, it caters to everyone. In this article, we take you through the ins and outs of Islamic banking and why you should take the plunge and consider the change! Why you should bank Islamically: 1. Highly protected In the Quran, Allah says: “O you who believe! When you contract a debt for a fixed period, write it down. Let a scribe write it down in justice between you. You should not become weary to write it (your contract), whether it be small or big, for its fixed term, that is more just with Allah; more solid as evidence, and more convenient to prevent doubts among yourselves” [2:282] The above verse illustrates Islam’s emphasis on having a written agreement for every form of transaction. While some may deem it unnecessary, it is essential as it serves as a means of protection. Whether it is in the form of a formal contract or not, written agreements protect the rights and interests of both the halal-conscious consumer, and the bank. Additionally, it serves as a form of ‘checks and balances’ for every transaction that is carried out. Islamic banking has the interest of the halal-conscious consumer at heart. It protects against financial risks, and from non-compliance of the Islamic Law through products, regulations, and an Islamic framework of governance. Additionally, it protects the leasing of assets. In the process of a lease, the bank is liable to pay all expenses incurred. For mainstream banking, all costs incurred in process of purchasing an asset are the expense of the consumer. This includes the costs incurred due to natural disasters. If you are in the market searching for a bank that provides maximum protection and has your best interests at heart, Islamic banking is the banking system for you. 2. Interest-Free The most well-known feature of Islamic banking is that it is interest-free. In the Quran, Allah says: “God has permitted trade, but forbidden riba (interest)” [2:275] As a result, all financial transactions within the Islamic banking system are void of interest. This stems from the Islamic ruling that money is only a medium of exchange; it has no inherent value, and as a result, cannot increase in value on its own. According to Islamic Law, all profit must be accrued through a form of labor, and lending money does not count. One of the ways in which banks generate profit is through rendering services or the buying and selling of halal goods. To generate income without charging the halal-conscious consumer any interest, they utilize the equity participation system. In this way, businesses pay back loans that are void of interest, but they provide a share of their profits to the bank. Regarding the benefits of the equity participation system, it promotes good welfare amongst people. It provides everyone with equal access to loans by ignoring the liabilities of repaying off a loan that is laden with interest. Additionally, to grow the halal-conscious consumer’s investment, Islamic banks engage in financial trade and budget deficits through foreign and domestic sources. In turn, they could also delve into diversified investment portfolios that; yield a high return, have minimal risk, and provides adequate liquidity. The profits generated from the sources above are divided between the halal-conscious consumer and the respective bank. 3. Low-risk business involvement An additional benefit of Islamic banking is that it does involve high-risk business activities. In a hadith, on the authority of Abu-Said al-Khudriy, it was reported that: “The Prophet (s) has forbidden the purchase of the unborn animal in the mother’s womb, the sale of the milk in the udder without measurement, the purchase of spoils of war prior to their distribution, the purchase of charities prior to their receipt, and the purchase of the catch of a diver” (Ahmad and Ibn Majah). From this hadith, we can glean that Islam is firmly against any form of commerce that takes on the form of a gamble. Business ventures that involve speculation or where future outcomes are not easily predicted, are prohibited. Islamic banking is primarily based on tangible assets. In turn, this helps protect the halal-conscious consumer against participating in high-risk investments that can lead to a loss of property or profit. When compared to mainstream banks, Islamic banking approaches investments from an intentional and insightful, decision-making process. A prime example of this is the US-based LARIBA. They offer Islamic banking services that are governed by a board of Muslim directors who make decisions, based on sound Islamic rulings. 4. Promotes business partnership When it comes to starting a business, Islamic banking is a sound option, especially for small and mid-size enterprises (SMEs). They provide SMEs with the opportunity to start a business by sharing the profit and loss generated by both parties. In

Cruising Halal

Blogs Cruising Halal The Rise of The Halal Cruise Liner Muslims make up one of the fastest-growing segments of the global travel industry. In response, hotels, tour operators, and even cruise liners are striving to meet their dietary and religious needs. The Halal tourism industry is one of the fastest-growing sectors of the global travel industry. For it to be deemed ‘halal,’ there should be no trace of pork on the hotel menus, no alcohol on the drink carts, and hotels and resorts should have separate swimming and recreational facilities for women and men. Additionally, travel itineraries should have built-in time slots for the five daily calls to prayer. According to a report by Mastercard and Crescent Rating (a research group that tracks halal-friendly travel) projects that over the next decade, that sector’s contribution to the global economy will jump to $300 billion from $180 billion. With a population that is young, educated, and upwardly mobile, they are one of the fastest-growing demographics on the global tourism scene. You may experience a thrilling trip abroad, but the daily search for halal-certified food can dampen the fun of the itinerary. For the halal-conscious consumer, the number one factor is quality halal food. After that, the second priority is finding prayer facilities. Mikhael Goh, the founder of Have Halal Will Travel, states: “…there are Yelp and TripAdvisor and so many popular apps and services to tell you where to eat and where to travel, why on earth is there so little information for Muslims? Not just about food — yes, halal food is the basis of a lot of things, but also about safety and prayer. There was a general lack of information out there, and the information that did exist was so fragmented.” Only recently, the gap in the niche market of halal tourism is finally being filled. In 2018, Dream Cruise served a portion of that gap by becoming the only cruise ship in Asia to offer Halal-certified cuisine with Genting Dream. Finding halal food on travel – let alone on a cruise liner – can feel like a rarity. With the abundance of alcohol that surrounds the dining quarters, to pork and exotic meats that can make it challenging to distinguish between what is halal and what isn’t, the emergence of the halal travel sector is a necessity for the halal-conscious traveler. Under the regulations of the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM), the Lido, one of Genting Dream’s most popular onboard restaurants, offers a dedicated Halal buffet section for the halal-conscious traveler. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner while providing an indoor and outdoor dining experience with a breath-taking view of the open seas. Additionally, the chefs on board have crafted a series of Halal inspired-dishes, including many popular favorite Asian and international delicacies, offering a wide spread of buffet choices to please the palate. These include popular local favorites such as ‘Ayam Madu’ (Honey chicken), ‘Pari Asam Pedas’ (Sour & Spicy Stingray), ‘Opor Ayam’ (Javanese chicken in coconut milk), ‘Tandoori Kambing’ (Mutton tandoori), ‘Gulai Daging Kawah’ (traditional Kelantanese beef), ‘Tempe Goreng Pedas’ (Spicy fried soya bean cake) and more. Travelers can look forward to a cruise vacation with Dream Cruises sailing from Singapore to exciting destinations across the ASEAN region and be assured of a variety of halal-friendly cuisine options on board Genting Dream. “As an Asian homegrown brand, it gives us great pleasure to launch Dream Cruises’ first Halal-certified cuisine offerings onboard Genting Dream to meet the growing demand. Our award-winning Dream Cruises chefs have created a wide array of Halal cuisines for our guests, which are available at the dedicated Halal buffet section at The Lido. Our Halaal certification will also support our meetings and incentive business partners who have requested this important offering,” said Mr. Thatcher Brown, President of Dream Cruises. With Genting Dream’s year-round homeport deployment in Singapore, Muslim guests will now have the convenience and assurance of certified Halal cuisine options during a series of enticing 2-Night, 3-Night and 5 Night cruise itineraries visiting Penang, Phuket, Langkawi, Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang), Surabaya, North Bali and MacLeod Island. Genting Dream also offers a wide array of suites, including interconnecting rooms suitable for families, as well as The Palace accommodations – “a-ship-within-a-ship” enclave, as well as private facilities for the halal-conscious traveler such as swimming pools, spa, gym, and dining venues. Going the extra mile, Dream Cruises will be providing Ramadan-based services during the Holy month. For suhoor (the morning meal), meals will be delivered to rooms, and iftar (evening meal with which Muslims end their fast at sunset) will be prepared for those who are fasting in the form of a buffet. Tarawih (nightly ritual prayer) services will also be held at night, allowing Muslim guests to comfortably carry out their religious obligations. Additionally, Dream Cruises has taken special considerations to curate women-friendly services, such as women-only healthcare services and female therapists for spa treatments. The ship also has reserved timings for swimming pools and sports centers to be women-only, for Muslim women to enjoy the full cruise experience with peace of mind. While Halal tourism caters towards the needs of the halal-conscious traveler by making it easier for them to find food, prayer facilities, and alcohol-free activities, they also support those travelers to branch out of their comfort zones and feel empowered to explore the world knowing that their basic needs are being met. From private swimming facilities where women can bathe without men to disturb them and more than this, Dream Cruises offer the halal-conscious traveler the chance to experience something completely different from the norm.New Paragraph

Is Your Food Halal?

Blogs Is Your Food Halal? “Is your food halal?” is a question I have personally asked countless times over the years, whether I am in my home city, abroad, or at a friend’s house. I grew up in a multicultural society where Islam is a minority religion. I learned from an early age that “halal” meant an animal is slaughtered in a special way… right? Growing up, my social circle consisted mainly of non-Muslims and my mother would painstakingly drum it into my head to ask if the food was halal before I ate it. For a long time, I was content with just knowing that – to me – halal meant making sure the meat I consumed went through the ritual of Islamic slaughter. Little did I know that halal had an entire dimension that I was unaware of. Disclaimer: I am not a specialist on the technicalities of the shar’i (Islamic ruling) of the halal issue, therefore I have no expertise and cannot speak from this perspective, but I do want to share my journey towards realizing what “eating halal” means to me. The beauty of Islam is that it is not only a religion, but also a way of life. It guides us towards living our fullest potential as beautiful and pure human beings. Islam promotes purity in all its various forms, whether it is in our worship, our relationships, business dealings, education, hygiene and specifically when it comes to what we consume. As humans, we are innately wired to find and tread the path of purity. Abu Huraira reported: The Prophet (ﷺ), said, “No child is born but that he is upon natural instinct.” [1] Eating pure food is an essential aspect of human existence as the saying “you are what you eat” states. If what we eat is a reflection of who we are, should we not endeavor to embody purity? In the Quran, Allah, The Most High has commanded us: “O men, eat the lawful and good things from what is in the earth.” [2] “O ye who believe! Eat of the good things wherewith We have provided you, and render thanks to Allah if it is (indeed) He whom ye worship” [3] “Eat of the good things and act righteously” [4] I found it interesting that in the aforementioned verses “halal” is mentioned once, and that “good” is emphasized more. So, let’s explore what does Allah the Most High mean by “good”: The most obvious definition of “good” is that the animal should be slaughtered according to strict Islamic guidelines thereby making it halal [5]. Secondly, “good” can refer to the wholesomeness of food. In 2015, I spontaneously decided to change my eating habits. Prior to that, I had always thought of myself as a healthy eater since I loved veggies, wholewheat bread, and lean meats. But the sweet treats were always close by. I decided to cut out all refined sugars, processed foods and unhealthy carbs. Within a few short months, I started to see a dramatic difference to my general health. I experienced better sleep, more energy, healthy skin and the disappearance of my allergies. If one took the time to study the life of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) we would quickly realize the wisdom in the guidelines he gave us with regards to the etiquette of eating. Today, the Islamic wisdom of eating is being adopted under the guise of a fad diets and eating plans such as keto and intermittent fasting [6]. Another aspect of “good” is ensuring that the environment and utensils used for food preparation is free from impermissible ingredients. One cannot eat from a kitchen where pork is being cooked or alcohol is being used or served from. I used to think that eating a vegetarian meal from a non-halal restaurant would be considered permissible, yet cross-contamination can occur so easily. Lastly, “good” refers to the lawful money with which we buy our food. The consequences of eating food bought with haram money is tragic. It affects the consumer of the food and their progeny. Food is essential to the health and well-being of humanity. We cannot survive without it, nor can we survive with it in excess. We live in a polarized world where starvation and over-indulgence co-exists and both scenarios have dire impacts on societies. It is unimaginable that we have people starving to death while others are extravagant and wasteful. The Quran clearly commands us to “Eat and drink, but not to excess” [7]. Islam encourages us to take the middle road in everything we do. History is filled with evidence of early civilizations choosing specific areas for settlement based on the fertility of the land and its ability to yield crops. The need for food has caused societies to migrate from place to place. Migration has resulted in the mixture of populations as they spread across the globe leaving their influences as they passed through. In our contemporary world, people still migrate albeit for different reasons such as work, study, fleeing war, or seeking refuge. Our modern from of migration has seen countries who were formerly homogenous, now become melting pots of culture, and the most obvious signs of this is in their cuisine. It is an undisputed fact that food brings people together. It is a great conversation piece and for some it is the ultimate goal and a source of great pleasure. For Muslims however, it is a means to an end. Our end is the hereafter. Through our consumption of halal food, we are able to nourish our bodies and souls. By eating halal food, we show our obedience to our creator and through this obedience, become His representatives on earth. It has taken me many years to truly understand the meaning of halal and the pivotal role halal food plays in the life of a believer. I am amazed by the deeper benefits of eating halal and I am in awe of Allah’s love for His creation by gifting us with a pure way of eating. My contemplation and research of what halal truly means has made me realize that eating

The Islamic Perspective on the Coronavirus Pandemic

Blogs The Islamic Perspective on the Coronavirus Pandemic To our distinguished readers, As all of you are well aware, COVID-19 is a major concern to all, particularly with regards to travel and large gatherings. We, as Muslims and human beings, must be cognizant of this reality, and remember to view this from the perspective of the divine reality. What is Allah (سبحانه و تعالى) telling us? This outbreak is an expression of Allah’s (سبحانه و تعالى) power and might. He is al ‘Atheem (The Supreme), and no matter of technology, nor scientific advancement can overpower Him and His will. We must know that every occurrence, happening, or tragedy in our lives is a signpost to the one who transcends the confines of time and space; the one who causes sickness, and never becomes sick; the one who heals, and never requires healing. In knowing this, we must ask ourselves and reflect not only on the “how”, but also on the “why”. Narrated ‘Amir bin Sa`d bin Abi Waqqas: That he heard Usama bin Zaid speaking to Sa`d, saying, “Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) mentioned the plague and said, ‘It is a means of punishment with which some nations were punished and some of it has remained, and it appears now and then. So whoever hears that there is an outbreak of plague in some land, he should not go to that land, and if the plague breaks out in the land where one is already present, one should not run away from that land, escaping from the plague.” حَدَّثَنَا أَبُو الْيَمَانِ، حَدَّثَنَا شُعَيْبٌ، عَنِ الزُّهْرِيِّ، حَدَّثَنَا عَامِرُ بْنُ سَعْدِ بْنِ أَبِي وَقَّاصٍ، أَنَّهُ سَمِعَ أُسَامَةَ بْنَ زَيْدٍ، يُحَدِّثُ سَعْدًا أَنَّ رَسُولَ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم ذَكَرَ الْوَجَعَ فَقَالَ ‏ “‏ رِجْزٌ ـ أَوْ عَذَابٌ ـ عُذِّبَ بِهِ بَعْضُ الأُمَمِ، ثُمَّ بَقِيَ مِنْهُ بَقِيَّةٌ، فَيَذْهَبُ الْمَرَّةَ وَيَأْتِي الأُخْرَى، فَمَنْ سَمِعَ بِهِ بِأَرْضٍ فَلاَ يَقْدَمَنَّ عَلَيْهِ، وَمَنْ كَانَ بِأَرْضٍ وَقَعَ بِهَا فَلاَ يَخْرُجْ فِرَارًا مِنْهُ ‏”‏‏.‏ Reference : Sahih al-Bukhari 6974 Allah (سبحانه و تعالى) is displeased with His people, and this virus is a punishment from Him for those who do not remember Him. He is displeased of our sinning, and lack of care to seek forgiveness. We must take heed to the warning signs of Allah (سبحانه و تعالى) punishment, and not be dismissive as if these events are mere coincidences.  Be Measured It is our duty and responsibility as Muslims to be careful, and not be a negligent source of spreading of any sort of virus. Also, we must understand and be conscious of the fact that contraction of this virus is not an automatic death sentence. The vast majority of cases do not end in death, and nearly all of the sick are returning to a state of full recovery. It is not a time to panic, and lose respect for your humanity. It is not a time to fear unnecessarily, and to forget that Allah (سبحانه و تعالى) is in charge, and over all things. We should remain pragmatic from the physical perspective, while at the same time remembering Allah (سبحانه و تعالى) power. Do not over purchase, and do not selfishly hoard goods and items that others may also need. If You Become Sick If you happen to have symptoms of the virus, then get yourself tested, and refrain from contact with others as much as possible. If you are a carrier of the COVID-19 virus, then be responsible, and inform those whom you have been in contact with to the best of your ability. It is your duty to be aware and not careless. How to Remove the Punishment Narrated Ibn `Abbas: Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) entered upon a sick man to pay him a visit, and said to him, “Don’t worry, Allah willing, (your sickness will be) an expiation for your sins.” The man said, “No, it is but a fever that is boiling within an old man and will send him to his grave.” On that, the Prophet (ﷺ) said, “Then yes, it is so.” حَدَّثَنَا إِسْحَاقُ، حَدَّثَنَا خَالِدُ بْنُ عَبْدِ اللَّهِ، عَنْ خَالِدٍ، عَنْ عِكْرِمَةَ، عَنِ ابْنِ عَبَّاسٍ ـ رضى الله عنهما ـ أَنَّ رَسُولَ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم دَخَلَ عَلَى رَجُلٍ يَعُودُهُ فَقَالَ ‏”‏ لاَ بَأْسَ طَهُورٌ إِنْ شَاءَ اللَّهُ ‏”‏‏.‏ فَقَالَ كَلاَّ بَلْ حُمَّى تَفُورُ عَلَى شَيْخٍ كَبِيرٍ كَيْمَا تُزِيرَهُ الْقُبُورَ‏.‏ قَالَ النَّبِيُّ صلى الله عليه وسلم ‏”‏ فَنَعَمْ إِذًا ‏”‏‏.‏ Reference : Sahih al-Bukhari 5662 Remember that Allah (سبحانه و تعالى) is in charge of your affairs, and He chooses your life and death, your tribulations and joys, your calamities and gifts. The happenings of the believer are always good, because with the good, he is thankful, and with the trials, he is patient. Abu Yahya Suhaib bin Sinan (May Allah be pleased with him) reported that: The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, “How wonderful is the case of a believer; there is good for him in everything and this applies only to a believer. If prosperity attends him, he expresses gratitude to Allah and that is good for him; and if adversity befalls him, he endures it patiently and that is better for him” [Muslim]. وعن أبي يحيى صهيب بن سنان رضي الله عنه قال‏:‏ قال رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم ‏ “‏عجبا لأمر المؤمن إن أمره كله له خير، وليس ذلك لأحد إلا للمؤمن ‏:‏ إن أصابته سراء شكر فكان خيراً له، وإن أصابته ضراء صبر فكان خيراً له‏”‏ ‏(‏‏(‏رواه مسلم‏)‏‏)‏‏.‏ Arabic/English book reference : Book 1, Hadith 27 And if Allah (سبحانه و تعالى) were to call any of us back due to this virus, remember what our Prophet (ﷺ) said: “The martyrs are five: Those who die of the plague, stomach illness, drowning, being crushed, and the martyr in the cause of Allah” Grade : Sahih (Darussalam) Reference : Jami` at-Tirmidhi 1063 May Allah make us all of the saabireen (the patient), and may He be with all of you in heart, mind, and soul. Ameen. Best, Masoor Rafiq UmarVice PresidentHalal Watch World LLC

How to be a Halal Conscious Consumer

Blogs How to be a Halal Conscious Consumer The concept of Halal is expanding across the globe, and along with it comes a lifestyle that Muslims can adopt in order to become a halal conscious consumer. A significant part of becoming “halal conscious” has to do with assessing our behavior and attitudes, as a Muslim consumer. Before we dive in too deep, let’s discuss what we mean by the term “halal conscious consumer.” Suppose a specific bracket of consumers is labeled as “halal conscious” – does that mean that they are exclusively involved in commercial activities permitted in Islam? According to a recent report on halal trends, halal-inclusive activities geared towards the Muslim market were no longer solely occupied by adherents of the Islamic faith. More and more non-Muslims are gradually buying into the concept of what we call a “halal conscious consumer.” According to a research report published in the Journal of Brand Management, “The reason for this trend is that the halal market derives attention not only from Muslims but also from Non-Muslims who are motivated by the simplicity, purity, and humanity of halal product itself.” Apart from the fact that it guarantees assurance and security as a Muslim, being a halal-conscious consumer has multiple benefits. In addition to product quality control, it is also an effective way to promote a healthy lifestyle. How to be a Halal Conscious Consumer To become a halal conscious consumer, a certain etiquette needs to be adhered to within our everyday trade and commercial transactions. Below we list four key aspects of how to attain that: 1. Buy what you need It is common knowledge that the human being has insatiable desires. Of those desires, is the need to accumulate or possess more than what one requires. It is essential that the halal-conscious consumer only buy what they need and avoid wasting. Within Islam, wasting is frowned upon and is strongly discouraged. In the Quran, Allah says: “O Children of Adam! Dress properly at every place of worship, and eat and drink, but do not be excessive. He does not love the transgressors” (7:31). It is always a good idea to assess one’s various needs and necessities from time to time. It is essential to not compare one’s lifestyle with another and compete in the accumulation of things; purchase only what you need. 2. Shop at halal ethical/sustainable businesses As a halal-conscious consumer, when you shop from a company with ethical standards, you’re supporting a company that shares the same mission as you. By supporting ethical businesses, you’re purchasing a product that has gone through minimal to no harmful practices, reduced waste, and employees are compensated fairly. Additionally, it also ensures that the product you are purchasing has gone through a process of quality control, which means that you’re getting more bang for your buck. Subsequently, when you shop ethically, you help improve the greater society, as well as the economy.   Islam encourages supporting and aiding one another in good causes. In Surah Al-Ma’idah, Allah implores us: “Help one another in righteousness and in warding off evil, but do not help one another to commit sin and transgression, and take Allah as a shield. Surely, Allah is Severe in retribution” (5:2). It is the halal-conscious consumer’s responsibility to support halal businesses with ethical and sustainable practices, at their core. 3. Promote agriculture by growing your own produce and eating tayyib Halal-conscious consumers are aware of the costs and health implications that are incurred as a result of consuming processed food and drinks. By growing your own food and eating pure and halal food, you will save money and improve your health by minimizing the risk of exposure to chemicals and toxins present in most of the food we consume. Islam encourages agriculture as it is regarded as a blessed and productive activity. There are countless verses in the Quran that mention agriculture. Of those verses, Allah says: “It is he who sendeth down rain from the skies, with it we produce vegetation of all kinds, from some we produce green (crops), out of which we produce, close-compounded grain out of the date-palm and its sheaths (or spathes) (come) clusters of dates hanging low and near, And (then there are) gardens of grapes and olives, and pomegranates, each similar (in-kind) yet different (in variety) when they begin to bear fruit, feast your eyes with the fruit and the ripeness thereof. Behold! In these things, there are signs for people who believe” (6:99). Additionally, there are also various ahadith of Prophet Muhammad that promote agriculture. In a hadith in the book of Sahih Bukhari, the Prophet Muhammad is reported to have said: “There is none amongst the Muslims who plants a tree or sows seeds, and then a bird, or a person or an animal eats from it, but is regarded as a charitable gift for him.” (Sahih Bukhari) Therefore, we can deduce that agriculture is not only an important way of contributing to the economy and society at large, but it is also regarded as an act of worship. 4. Reduce your carbon footprint Your carbon footprint is your contribution to releasing carbon dioxide and other gasses that are toxic to the environment. The bigger your carbon footprint, the more significant harm you are causing the environment. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), “a carbon footprint is a measure of the impact your activities have on the amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) produced through the burning of fossil fuels and is expressed as a weight of CO2 emissions produced in tonnes.” One major contributor to a huge carbon footprint is the use of plastics such as plastic bags, nylons, single-use cutlery, and cups, etc. Plastic is not biodegradable, and as a result, when it is not disposed of safely, this causes pollution to the earth and endangers wildlife. Islam forbids us from causing harm to the earth. In the Quran, Allah says: “And when it is said to them (to those whose hearts are impeded and whose disease Allah has increased because they prevent others from Guidance): “Do not

Eight Home-Based Halal Business Ideas for Muslim Women

Blogs Eight Home-Based Halal Business Ideas for Muslim Women Working from home has a lot of benefits, especially if you’re a stay-at-home mom, and you’d love to earn an income. Recently, everyone is looking for an opportunity to stay home while still staying financially afloat.As a result of the global lockdown, more and more people are beginning to discover that working from home with the shorter workweek, and reduced hours, provides a lot of flexibility. With the rise in self-employment and freelancing, the 9 to 5 workday may soon be a relic of the forgotten past.  While running a business may not be the most natural thing, it offers women the opportunity to earn money from the comfort of their home and at the same time, fulfilling the responsibilities that they’ve committed themselves to.  The trick to running a successful business is to identify your talents and capitalize on them. Soon enough, after careful preparation, you’d be able to monetize your ideas into a sustainable home-based or virtual business.  Without further ado, let’s delve into our top picks for home-based halal business ideas! 1. Halal In-home Takeout Are you the friend that everyone goes to on Eid day? Perhaps your dinner parties are always a hit, and people come running when they smell your dishes and baked goods? Then it is time to bank on your culinary prowess with a halal in-home takeout business.Takeout services are very popular, and with most Muslims preferring the nutritious halal-cooked food over takeout restaurants (who use questionable ingredients), it will be a definite hit. Even though getting takeout is convenient, there will always be a gap in the market for food delivery services that are as good (and equally hearty) as a home-cooked meal. Start by offering a few meals, then create a menu or scheduled timetable for placing orders. Once that’s sorted, start advertising within your social circle, and ask a friend to share your business and leave a review. Note: Depending on where you live, you might require a permit or a license to operate legally.  2. Tutoring If you’re a lover of knowledge, and enjoy imparting it, then you may consider tutoring or becoming an online educator – all without leaving your home! If you are a specialist in a specific field, and have a knack for teaching, you should hone in on your skillset and teach. You could tutor subjects such as Calculus, History, or delve into English Literature.  If you’re excellent in Arabic, you can advertise services and teach it as an additional language. Additionally, teaching English as a foreign language is also a highly sought-after occupation, but before working with any online company, do thorough research beforehand. Most online tutoring is conducted over video-based platforms such as Google Hangouts , Skype , Zoom , or WizIQ . Alternatively, you can utilize tutoring sites such as TutorMe , Tutor.com , Skooli , Edmentum – and these companies will handle the payments on your behalf. 3. Halal Inn If you have a flair for hosting guests, you have a few empty rooms in your home that you’d like to put to good use, and you live in a top-rated tourist attraction neighborhood, then hosting your own Halal Inn is the perfect business opportunity for you. To make your Inn stand out, sharpen your cooking skills, or outsource them. Also, make sure your guest rooms are decorated tastefully. Doing so will help attract Muslim tourists and travelers from all over the world. Halal tourism provides Muslims with Sharia-compliant travel destinations services. And while this industry is largely untapped, it holds enormous potential as many travelers prefer to be in a culturally sensitive environment. Aside from it being a halal way to earn an income, you will meet new people and expand your social network. Starting your own Halal Inn does not require much capital. For the guest rooms, collect clean linens and source décor. For the room-cleaning services, improve your cleaning skills or outsource a cleaning company. With the help of advertising and word of mouth, you can turn your home into an oasis for weary tourists to rest.  4. Editing/Proofreading If you have an eye for grammar, and you love fixing up texts, editing and proofreading may just be your next home-based business.  Now, these two aren’t quite the same. Although the two occupations may sound very similar, they are entirely different. Editing is about choosing the best words, and making sure the writing flows organically. In contrast, proofreading is concerned with identifying, correcting grammatical mistakes and spelling errors that an editor might have missed.  Whatever the medium, whether it is editing a magazine, or proofreading a manuscript for a literary agency, editors and proofreaders are always needed.  5. Virtual Assistant Are you a multitasking maven? Or are you perhaps referred to as “the organized one”? – You know, the type who color-codes their planners or sends out Google calendar invitations for coffee dates. If this is you, then being a virtual assistant might be the home-based halal business idea for you.In recent times, with improvements in technology, and small businesses requiring ad-hoc support, the virtual assistant industry has seen significant growth.  As a virtual assistant, you will mostly work as an independent contractor, and your role can vary depending on your experience. The role is similar to that of a personal assistant, where you assist professionals, except in this case, it’s entirely online.  Getting started is relatively cheap; you don’t need any specialized training, but you require a personal computer with a good internet connection. Additional resources such as Trello or Asana are practical applications for streamlining your tasks, and managing your work efficiently.  To get started, you can sign up on job boards like Upwork, Indeed, or Virtual Assistant Jobs. Alternatively, you can reach out to small businesses in your vicinity, and offer them your service. 6. Halal Childcare Services Do you love spending time with children? Then you might want to consider providing halal childcare services.  With both parents working fulltime jobs, there has been an increased demand for daycare services. Also, most Muslim parents would opt to place their children in daycare that’s centered on Islamic ethos. If you’re running a daycare service from home,

Everything You Need to Know About the Halal Pharmaceutical Industry

Blogs Everything You Need to Know About the Halal Pharmaceutical Industry With Muslims constituting nearly a quarter of the world’s population, there has been an increased need for halal awareness within the pharmaceutical industry. Many of us, including Muslims, rely on modern medicine to cure our various ailments. Whether it’s popping a quick painkiller to cure a headache, or a trip to the doctor when our knee is feeling funny; we rely heavily on the pharmaceutical industry. Without our knowledge, the medication we take may contain ingredients (or excipients) that are not halal or are manufactured in a manner that is not aligned with Islamic values. Halal pharmaceutical products are steadily gaining popularity throughout the world and are setting a new standard of safety and quality. Over the past two years, this emerging niche market has witnessed sudden developments and is estimated to reach 174.59 billion USD by 2025. Muslim-majority countries have adopted a regulated framework that guides the halal certification process for pharmaceutical products. Let’s take a closer look at the halal pharmaceutical market.  What you need to know about halal pharmaceuticals Halal pharmaceuticals contain ingredients that are halal, and are produced according to Islamic regulations. To be certified halal, every ingredient must be traceable. Products must not contain any ingredient derived from pig, alcohol, blood, predatory animals, human parts, or insects. Animal-derived ingredients must come from permissible animals slaughtered as per the method prescribed by Islamic law. Moreover, the ingredients used must be safe for humans and should not be intoxicating nor should they be prepared with equipment contaminated by najis (impurity). Additionally, during its preparation; processing; handling; packaging; storage and distribution, halal pharmaceutical products need to be physically separated from any other pharmaceutical products that do not meet the aforementioned requirements. Awareness within the Pharmaceutical Industry When it comes to over-the-counter medication, there is a general lack of knowledge concerning its halal status. Most products contain high levels of alcohol or questionable animal by-products. In Muslim-majority countries, one can easily find halal-certified medication. If the situation allows, it is best for the halal-conscious consumer to seek halal-certified options; scan the ingredients list; or consult a trusted Muslim pharmacist. Within the existing pharmaceutical industry, there is still plenty of work to be done to create a consistent awareness around ‘halal’. To develop the halal pharmaceutical market, halal certifying bodies need to ensure that it undergoes a well-regulated and harmonized halal accreditation procedure. Additionally, education is vital; medical practitioners need to be aware of the contents of the medication they prescribe and inform the general public accordingly. With the growing awareness of halal pharmaceuticals, countries like Australia, the US, and Singapore have started investing in halal pharmacies. Halal Pharmaceuticals in Malaysia With more than half of its population composed of Muslims, Malaysia is the trailblazer in the certified halal pharmaceutical industry for its global halal pharmaceutical standards. In 2012, they produced the world’s first halal certification for pharmaceuticals. Their new halal standard has expanded the scope for halal certifying bodies to address the demands in biologics and the search for halal vaccinations. The Malaysian government has introduced a comprehensive set of guidelines called the Malaysian Standard of Halal Pharmaceuticals: General Guidelines. This provides pharmaceutical companies with the necessary guidelines to benefit the health and safety of the general public; it also facilitates the successful entry of domestic pharmaceutical manufacturers into the global halal pharmaceutical market. Additionally, their processes are in accordance with halal regulatory bodies, therefore, providing peace of mind to the halal-conscious consumer when purchasing pharmaceutical products. Malaysian Pharmaceutical Society’s President, Amrahi Buand, said that for pharmaceutical products to be halal-certified, it has to meet the necessary safety; efficacy; quality, and hygiene requirements. Conclusion With more Muslims becoming curious about the origins of their medication, the demand for halal pharmaceuticals increase. This provides an opportunity for the pharmaceutical industry to look into producing halal pharmaceutical products, and to position themselves to become more competitive in penetrating the global halal industry. With a dependable and globally accredited halal certification system for pharmaceutical products, pharmaceutical companies will not only provide an added layer of assurance for the halal conscious consumer, but they will also ensure the health and safety of the global population. Works cited: Saha, T., Rifat, T., & Shimanto, S. (2019). Prospects of Halal Pharmaceuticals. Asian Journal of Ethnopharmacologyand Medicinal Foods, 5(2), 17-22. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/332671712_Prospects_of_Halal_Pharmaceuticals Norazmi, M. N., & Lim, L. S. (2015). Halal pharmaceutical industry: opportunities and challenges. Trends in Pharmacological Sciences, 36(8), 496–497. doi:10.1016/j.tips.2015.06.006 

Being A Muslim In The Workplace

Blogs Being A Muslim In The Workplace Awkward…. or is it? Realistically, two of the many things we cannot avoid in our lives are our faith and earning an income. While the former may prove to be a blessing more than anything else, it does erect challenges for many when combined with the latter, especially in an office/corporate environment. Many a time these challenges result in a person becoming a less practicing Muslim at work or even someone shy to reveal their faith. So how can we use our work environment to not only maintain our spiritual levels but also increase it at the same time?   Many of us are aware of the difficulties the office environment poses to us. Some may find it a challenge to pray at work while others are challenged by the constant surrounding of the opposite sex. These are all common challenges experienced by many, including myself. The first thing one can do to not only aid them during these challenges but increase their spiritual connection is to rectify their niyyaat (intentions). Sincere intention/s can turn a mundane act into an act of worship. Sleeping with an intention to rest your body so that you may worship Allah the following day can make your sleep an act of worship. Umar Ibn Al-Khattab relates that he heard the Messenger of Allah, sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, say, “Verily actions are by intentions, and for every person is what he intended. So the one whose hijrah was to Allah and His Messenger, then his hijrah was to Allah and His Messenger. And the one whose hijrah was for the world to gain from it, or a woman to marry her, then his hijrah was to what he made hijrah for.” [Agreed upon]. This hadith is a beautiful reminder that many things we do or say can become acts of worship by simply making an intention. Intentions have the power to completely change one’s perspective. You’re not just praying but also showing non-Muslims the prayer as well as giving other Muslims the courage to do the same. You’re not just dressing modestly but also indicating that beauty lies in character and not just your physical makeup.   Another aspect many Muslims struggle with, in their work environment, is touching of the opposite sex. Perhaps in their daily out-of-the-office lifestyle, they are only akin to making skin contact with their spouse and mahram. However, in the workplace this may seem daunting as one may think avoiding handshakes or hugs are considered rude (I know I’ve thought this!). A simple tip for this is to just be open and frank. More often than not your colleagues will not just understand but also respect your views. A half step back while placing your hand to your chest also does wonders to get the message across without too much awkwardness. Whether the above mentioned are things you struggle with or it is something completely different, keep the following two things in mind. First, you in your work environment can earn the pleasure of Allah. You should treat your job like an act of worship. Secondly, adhering to your religious values can be a form of da’wah to others. Your actions may be the very thing that plants the seed of curiosity in someone’s heart; of which carries the potential to bloom into the embracement of our beautiful religion. In shaa Allah!

Animal Welfare in Islam

Blogs Animal Welfare in Islam In light of the recent decision France has taken to ban halal meat, we would like to open up the conversation around ‘Halal’. France’s ban comes from the presupposition that the Islamic method of slaughter is less humane than standard European practice. As a halal certification agency we thought it imperative to set the record straight, not only around the method of ritual slaughter, but also around Islam’s attitude towards animals altogether…   How SHOULD Muslims or halal-conscious consumers treat animals?   Islam views all living creatures, including human beings, animals, and insects, as Allah’s creation. And as such, each of these living entities is worthy of respect and being treated nobly. Long before the emergence of the animal rights movement – or ‘animal liberation’ – Allah implores the believers to treat animals with kindness and compassion. In the Quran and ahadith literature, numerous divine injunctions account for the sympathy and mercy that needs to be extended towards animals. On the one hand, Islam teaches us that animals have a specific purpose within the ‘creation hierarchy’ – their existence fulfills our multiple needs. On the other hand, we are also tasked with their maintenance and upholding of their well-being. As a result of the high demand for meat and animal products, we have industrialized the slaughtering process to the point where it becomes unethical. Hence, animal cruelty is a universal concern. And as such, we cannot prioritize productivity at the expense of basic compassion. As Muslims, we need to ensure that we uphold the injunction of treating animals with care. This post highlights the Islamic teachings of animal welfare and how we can look upon animals with a more compassionate eye. The Holy Qur’an and Animals The significance of animals pronounced in the Quran; Allah has named six chapter from the Holy Book after animals. Surah Al-Fil is named after the elephant; Al-Ankabut is named after the spider; Al-Naml after the ant; Al-Nahl after the bee; Al-An’am after the flock, and Al-Baqarah after the cow. So, while Allah has fashioned human beings ‘in the best of statures,’ every creature has its rights that need to be fulfilled. Every living organism has its worth and is considered to be a part of human society. And as such, humans are required to treat them with compassion and mercy. Similar to humans, the Holy Qur’an states that animals are part of a community. Each of them is a daughter, sister, mother, or father to his or her fellow-creature. In Surah al-An’am, Allah says: “There is not a moving creature on earth, nor a bird that flies with its two wings but are a community like you. We have neglected nothing in the Book, then unto their Lord, they all shall be gathered” (6:35). This verse implores us to show compassion towards animals in the same way we would accord respect to another fellow human being. The Qur’an further describes all living things as ‘Muslim’ – in that all of His creation submits to His will, and live in accordance to His laws. In Surah al-Nur, Allah says: “Have you not seen that to Allah extols whoever are in the heavens and the earth, and the bird outstretching (their wings)? (or: in ranks). Each has already known its prayers and extolment, and Allah is Ever-knowing of whatever they perform” (24:41). This verse serves as a reminder to us that animals are living creatures that are interconnected with a much larger physical and spiritual reality. Their reality is unlike ours. Equally, animals serve different purposes: they play a role in the balance of the eco-system, in sacrificial rituals, and fuel us in numerous ways. However, Islam entreats human beings to find a balance between enjoying their benefits as Allah intended and respecting their independence while avoiding any cruelty towards them. Animal Welfare in the Sunnah There is a rich tradition of the prophet Muhammad (PBUH) concern for animals found in the Hadith and Sunnah. He has shown us the straight path; he is the embodiment of compassion and mercy to all living creatures. From the sunnah, we derive a template on how the etiquette of handling animals:  1. Animal Hunting for Sports Islam condones animal hunting for nourishment and food. However, game hunting animals for sport is strictly prohibited. According to Abdullah Ibn. Amr, the Messenger of Allah, said, “There is not a single person that kills an animal unlawfully, even if it is a bird, without being interrogated by Allah”. The companions then asked, “Which way to kill is legitimate?” So he replied: “Cut the throat for the consumption and don’t kill to throw away” (Reported by Nassa’l and Hakim). During the Jahilliyah period (age of barbarism), animals were cruelly tied up and positioned as shooting targets. The Prophet Muhammad condemned inciting violence on animals and prohibited the act of eating “mujaththama” animals (animals tied up and shot with arrows). 2. Mental Cruelty is Forbidden Abd al-Rahman bin ‘Abd narrated that his father said, “When we were traveling with the Prophet, and he had gone to relieve himself, we saw a bird with its two young, and took them from their nest. The mother Bird came and began to beat its wings in grief. Then the Prophet (PBUH) came and said, ‘who has hurt the feelings of this bird by the loss of her young. Give her young ones back to her’.” 3. Kindness to Animals During Slaughter Muslims are allowed to consume the meat of permissible animals slaughtered according to Islamic rituals. Islam provides us with the necessary etiquette to ensure that the animal goes through a swift slaughtering process with minimal pain.   In Sahih Muslim, it is recorded that the Prophet Muhammad said, “Verily Allah has enjoined goodness to everything; so when you kill, kill in a good manner. So, every one of you should sharpen his knife, and let the slaughtered animal die comfortably.” (Book 21, Chapter 11, No 4810) In another Hadith, the Prophet Muhammed said, “Do you intend inflicting death on the animal twice – once by sharpening