The annual Religious Freedom Reports released by US State Department often include sections about religious freedom in Saudi Arabia. These reports are officially distributed by the State Department and then circulated amongst the centers of research in the West as well as the international media outlets and other channels. Saudi Arabia comes on top of concern of those involved in these reports, due to its religious and political significance. Accordingly, it becomes incumbent on us, as Saudis, to discuss the sections in these reports which cover religious freedom in our country and provide facts that are not included in these reports. While discussing these reports, we should explain to the world our view point vis-à-vis these reports. We should also allow the reader to discover the truth as stated therein and according to criteria upon which many fair-minded, rational people agreed with us.
The legality of music and singing in the Islamic shari'ah (the divinely-revealed law) is an issue which is hotly debated among individuals and scholars in Islamic societies of our present day. Arriving at the correct view requires unbiased, scholarly research of the available literature which must be supported by authentic, decisive proof. A considerable amount has been said and written both for and against this subject, and the proliferation of doubt and confusion necessitates another more critical, meticulous analysis and assessment of this whole matter, in order for one to come to a clear, decisive conclusion which leaves not the least bit of doubt in the mind of the reader.
Author: Abu Bilal Mustafa Al-Kandi
Reveiwers: Muhammad AbdulRaoof
All of us interact with people to some degree or another. The Dawah Training Program by Dr. Bilal Philips gives us the tools we need to turn our interactions into fruitful opportunities for Dawah. Starting from the legal ruling of Dawah and taking us through various Dawah techniques, Dr. Bilal Philips presents a comprehensive course enlightening the listener to the appropriate means and methodology of presenting the beautiful religion of Islam to people from various backgrounds.
Author: Abu Ameenah Bilal Philips
Reveiwers: Muhammad AbdulRaoof
A very important book talks about some misconceptions about Islam such as: 1- Polygamy. 2- Women are oppressed by Islam. 3- Double standard in marriage. 4- Divorce is easy in islam. 5- Divorce is only the man’s right. 6- Hijab. 7- Double standard in inheritance. 8- Two women are equal oto one man. 9- Islam was spread by sword.
The Islamic definition of Bid’ah: Imaam Ash-Shaafi’i, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: “A Bid’ah is anything that has no basis in the Qur’aan, Sunnah or sayings of any of the companions.” Ibn Al-Jawzi, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: “A Bid’ah is any form of worship that did not exist (at the time of the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam and his companions) then later it was innovated.” Ibn Rajab, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: “A Bid’ah is any form of worship which has no basis in the Sharee’ah which would warrant its legislation.”
Author: Ibn Rajab Al-Hanbali
Reveiwers: Muhammad AbdulRaoof
Become Acquainted With Islam: It is necessary, before explaining the facts and the pillars of Islam, to elaborate and understand the meaning of the name Islam. The word Islam has many meanings. It means submission, safety, and peace. In this study, when we mention the word Islam, it means the religion that Allah (S.W) revealed to His Prophet Mohammad (PBUH). because it concludes a total submission to Him (S.W) only, obedience to His rules, and following His commandments.
Author: Munqith ibn Mahmood As-Saqqar
Reveiwers: Muhammad AbdulRaoof