Latest news with #SurahAl-Baqarah
Sinar Daily
11-07-2025
- Health
- Sinar Daily
Halal cosmetics, a reflection of worship, not just appearance
MANY still mistakenly believe that halal only applies to food and drink, when in fact, it represents a far broader concept. In Islam, halal is a holistic way of life, touching on all aspects of daily lives, including the cosmetic products being used. Addressing this widespread misconception, Management and Science University (MSU) Islamic Studies lecturer and Certified Halal trainer Mohd Herzali Muhammad Haled, emphasised that halal principles are not limited to what we consume. Rather, he said they extend across numerous industries such as healthcare, finance, logistics, tourism and crucially, personal care and cosmetics. 'It's illogical and inaccurate to associate halal solely with food and drink,' he said in a recent interview at MSU in Shah Alam. Why is halal certification important in cosmetics? Herzali said the use of halal cosmetics is closely tied to the validity of acts of worship, especially prayer. As cosmetic products are often applied directly to the skin, they can affect the validity of ablution (wudu), which is a prerequisite for prayer. 'If a beauty product contains najis (impurities) or haram (forbidden) ingredients, it can invalidate our ablution and consequently, our prayers,' he added. He referenced a well-known hadith of the Prophet Muhammad SAW; 'Allah does not accept the prayer of any one of you if he breaks his wudu, until he performs it again (Reported by Al-Bukhari and Muslim),' he said. MSU Islamic Studies lecturer and Certified Halal trainer Mohd Herzali Muhammad Haled In addition, Herzali emphasised that choosing halal products demonstrates one's obedience and devotion to Allah. 'When a person opts for halal, it reflects their sincerity in following what Allah has commanded. It shows a conscious commitment to faith,' he said, citing verse 168 of Surah Al-Baqarah, which calls on believers to consume only what is halal and pure (tayyib). Halal and health, an Islamic perspective Beyond religious obligations, Herzali also emphasised on the health implications of non-halal or unsafe cosmetic products. He highlighted that preserving life is one of the primary objectives of Islamic law (Maqasid Syariah). 'Using harmful or non-halal cosmetics can cause serious damage, from skin conditions to hormonal imbalances and other health issues,' he said. He said this is closely tied to syariah's focus on protecting health and well-being. Beauty within syariah boundaries While Islam acknowledges beauty as a natural part of human life, particularly for women, it sets clear boundaries for its expression. 'Beauty is a gift and a trust from Allah. It's not meant to be flaunted or used to attract the attention of those who are not lawful (non-mahram) to us,' Herzali added. He pointed out that selecting halal cosmetics is not just a personal choice, but one that reflects a person's character, ethics and spiritual values. 'It's about how we manage our appearance with integrity and according to Islamic etiquette,' he said. Beware of misleading labels He also cautioned against being misled by vague marketing terms such as 'wudu-friendly' or 'Muslim-friendly', which may lack formal halal certification. These terms, he said are not guaranteed as the products might still contain impure or non-halal ingredients despite such labels,' he said. To avoid doubt (shubhah), he advised consumers to always check for official halal logos and verify ingredients through trusted authorities such as the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim). 'In Islam, avoiding doubtful matters is a principle. If there's uncertainty, it's best to leave it,' he added. The natural desire to beautify, with limits Herzali acknowledged that the desire to beautify oneself is especially common among women, and Islam does not prohibit it. However, the religion does provide guidelines to ensure modesty and morality are upheld. 'An Arabic saying goes, 'A woman is like a mirror' – naturally sensitive and inclined towards self-care. But they must stay within the boundaries set by religion,' he said. Photo for illustration purposes only. He warned against tabarruj, or excessive adornment, especially in public or in front of men who are not mahram (permissible to be seen without hijab). Surah Al-Ahzab, verse 33, says that women should not to display their beauty as the women of the pre-Islamic era did, for the purpose of attracting men. He also highlighted practices such as shaving eyebrows or undergoing cosmetic surgery solely for beauty as examples of altering Allah's creation without valid justification, something Islam strongly discourages. He added that choosing halal products is not just about religious piety, it's about preserving one's worship, character and health. 'Halal and toyyib is more than a slogan. It's a reflection of the integrity of a servant of Allah,' he said. Islamic guidelines on beautification Beautifying oneself is a natural human tendency, especially for women. Islam allows adornment but places limits to prevent immorality or attracting unnecessary attention. Avoid tabarruj, excessive beautification that draws the gaze of non-mahram men. Surah Al-Ahzab (verse 33) warns against adornment that mimics the behaviours of pre-Islamic ignorance. In the past, women wore jingling anklets and walked in a way to attract male attention, a practice discouraged in Islam. Altering one's physical features without valid reasons (e.g., excessive cosmetic surgery or shaving eyebrows) is not permissible. Adornment is allowed, but it must be moderate and within Islamic boundaries to uphold dignity and modesty.
Express Tribune
14-06-2025
- General
- Express Tribune
Speak gently
The writer is an educationist based in Larkana. She can be reached at sairasamo88@ Listen to article Throughout the centuries, rude and harsh behaviour has been a major factor in the destruction of peace and stable environments, often leading to conflict, instability, and disdain in people's hearts. A single word spoken harshly can throw the world into confusion and frustration, inviting despair and disappointment. Such behaviour can either stem from the nature or from the society that raises individuals who lack manners and gentle conduct — traits which are not inherently innate but must be nurtured. Tone reveals one's hidden personality and can have severe repercussions. People often become reactionary when confronted with rudeness, mirroring the negativity they receive. This is the bitter harvest reaped from discourteousness. Words like ill-mannered, impertinent, impolite and thoughtless come to mind when thinking about those who misbehave. Isn't it so? Plagued by such behaviour, countries frequently face political turmoil. This is visibly evident in state leaders who violate political decorum, often creating noisy and hostile environments in assembly halls or on media platforms — launching vitriolic attacks on each other. In doing so, they contribute to the erosion of human values. Strict social control, authoritative governance and human rights abuses often follow such displays of dominance, much to the dismay of the public. In a world full of noise and harshness, even a small gesture of gentleness can disarm the warmonger and pave the way toward peace. A gentle speech can act as therapy during times of despair and disappointment, solving manifold problems that harsh behaviour only exacerbates. For instance, nations often resort to violence and war when faced with stern rhetoric and rigid stances. However, the same nations are willing to call a ceasefire when invited to the dialogue table - a peaceful alternative. Kind words and moderate language open many doors to bonding and building relationships based on love and respect. The Quran emphasises this in Surah Al-Baqarah: "And speak kindly to people." (2:83) All prophets throughout time have been epitomes of gentleness, teaching lessons of decency, sobriety and politeness. Yet, we seldom act upon these teachings. Does it cost dollars to speak kindly and softly? Do we earn accolades for high-pitched voice or behaving rudely? Certainly not. Then why is the world so invested in such destructive and senseless behaviour just to showcase dominance? Let us examine the reality: people often behave rudely to assert that "might is right". But in doing so, they reveal their lack of inner value, stooping to low levels while trying to belittle others. This doesn't impress the recipient — it only paints a picture of moral weakness and poor upbringing. Those who encounter such individuals often respond with dislike and contempt, rightly seeing them as troublesome and undignified. Being kind and polite in communication wins hearts, earns respect and creates a lasting impression. Respect born out of fear is not true respect; it is mere compulsion bred from resentment. Even animals respond with loyalty when treated kindly. Humans, with their complex emotions, respond a thousand times more positively when shown love and regard. Words carry tremendous power. Post-Pahalgam, India and Pakistan teetered on the edge of fragility. The nasty rhetoric exchanged — statements from Modi and military officials aired on the media — only inflamed hatred and animosity. If those same situations had been handled with diplomacy and dialogue, peace in the region might have been preserved. We all hoped for tranquility instead of belligerency. In short, courteous behaviour and gentle words have the significant power to conquer everything. Therefore, create a world where people live with mutual respect and love, and let your words contribute to building an amiable environment for all. Moreover, let's avoid the world of mess and destruction. Hatred no more. Young and old, age and aged, all need the world where harmony prevails and love rules.
Arab Times
15-05-2025
- General
- Arab Times
Al-Rashid thus proved to his wife, who was more worthy of ruling
ACCORDING to the well-known rule, a liar is someone who praises himself. It is common for people to praise their own qualities while hiding their flaws. Mothers often praise their children, wishing them to be the best among others. Only experience reveals the truth, showing who is truly worthy and who is unreliable. The following lines reveal the truth about those who can be relied upon to bear responsibility, who possess intelligence and insight, and how they make sound judgments without needing guidance. Leaders are made from such individuals. The heroes of our story today are Caliph Harun Al-Rashid and his wife Zubaydah. One day, Harun Al-Rashid sat on the balcony of his palace, engaging in a conversation with his wife Zubaydah about their two sons Al-Amin and Al-Ma'mun. Zubaydah began to praise her son Al- Amin, highlighting his intelligence, courage, and high spirits. Harun Al-Rashid responded, 'The qualities you mention belong to Al-Ma'mun, not Al-Amin.' An argument ensued between them, with Zubaydah insisting that these qualities belonged to Al-Amin, while Harun Al-Rashid insisted they were the qualities of Al- Ma'mun. He then vowed to prove that his opinion was correct. The following night, Al-Rashid invited his two sons, Al-Amin and Al-Ma'mun, to his council and conversed with them until midnight. Al-Rashid asked the council to adjourn, and both sons went their separate ways. Less than an hour later, Al-Rashid summoned Zubaydah. When she arrived, he instructed his chamberlain to summon Al-Amin and Al-Ma'mun. Shortly after, Al-Amin entered, dressed in his finest and most luxurious clothes, carrying the scent of perfume. A moment later, Al- Ma'mun entered in his battle dress, with a sword slung around his waist and leaning on his spear. Al-Rashid asked, 'What made you come to my meeting in your battle dress?' Al-Ma'mun replied, 'Father, I left your meeting only a short time ago. If you had wanted something, you would have informed me. Your summoning me at night, so soon after I left, made me think something important had occurred. I wanted to be prepared. Perhaps you needed me for an urgent matter, and I couldn't afford to waste time. However, if this is for a regular matter, taking off my weapons is one of the easiest things.' Al-Rashid looked at Zubaydah and smiled. Nothing happens to a person except by God's will, and He grants them the strength to endure it. This is what God affirms in the Holy Quran: 'Allah does not burden a soul beyond that it can bear.' (Surah Al-Baqarah, Verse 286) So don't be saddened if you are forced to coexist with something that pains you. Smile, for the Most Merciful says: 'But perhaps you dislike a thing that is good for you.' You may go through moments that feel like the hardest in your life, until, suddenly, God's mercy reaches you through someone who heals your wound, eases your burden, and fulfills your need. In that moment, it is as if you had never suffered at all.
Arab News
30-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Arab News
Christie's Islamic and Indian art auction showcases rare pieces
LONDON: Ahead of its 'Art of the Islamic and Indian Worlds including Rugs and Carpets' auction here on May 1, Christie's experts recently shared insights with Arab News about the rare lots going under the hammer. Sara Plumbly, director and head of the Islamic and Indian art department, highlighted an illuminated Kufic Qur'an folio, likely from Damascus, Umayyad Syria, dated to the 8th or 9th century. 'This Surah Al-Baqarah … is very early on in the Qur'an (chapter two titled 'The Cow'), and you have this wonderful illuminated border. While you often see a line or two thick — here you have this hugely complicated border with beautiful colors.' Although several illuminated Kufic manuscripts were produced, there were few survivors and generally fragmentary, since their placement at the front of a manuscript meant that they were more exposed to wear and tear, according to Christie's website. An illuminated Kufic Qur'an folio, likely from Damascus. (Supplied) A collection of 11th century Fatimid gold jewelry caught the eye, to which Plumbly commented: 'Jewellery of this type very rarely comes on the market. 'I think one of the reasons is that they are made of gold which is quite fragile and malleable and also, because it is such a precious material, gold is often melted down and used for other objects through the course of history, so it doesn't survive in great quantities.' At the pre-sale press exhibition in London, there was also a striking Iznik pottery dish from Ottoman Turkiye, circa 1585-1590. This was complete with bole red, cobalt blue, green and black accents, as well as saz leaves and pomegranates against a background of dense black scrolls. Louise Broadhurst, director and international head of the department of rugs and carpets, pointed to The Hans Konig Collection of Classical Chinese Carpets. There was a magnificent Imperial Ming 'Qi' Dragon Palace carpet dating from the Wanli period, circa 1575-1600. 'It is one of just seven complete Dragon carpets that remain outside of China,' she explained. 'It would have originally been red in color, woven with a Brazilwood dye which at the time emulated the red that was the Imperial color of the emperor but sadly with time it faded quite rapidly to this sandy yellow color that we see today. 'It displays the 'Qi' dragon —a juvenile dragon in a naturalistic life form with cloud-like body, symbolic of an energetic life force. It's married with the peony which is another symbol for beauty. It would imbue all of the powers that the emperor wanted.' The live auction is at Christie's London headquarters with 129 lots set to go under the hammer.
Time of India
24-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
'As a Muslim, mujhe sharam aa rahi hai,' says music director Salim Merchant on Pahalgam terror attack; Munawar Faruqui reposts video
A horrific attack in Baisaran Valley, Kashmir, claimed 26 lives and injured over 20, shattering the region's fragile peace. Musician Salim Merchant expressed profound grief, denouncing the violence as a contradiction of true faith and reciting Quranic verses promoting religious tolerance. Comedian Munawar Faruqui echoed Salim's sentiments, emphasizing the gravity of the tragedy and the routine grief plaguing the region. Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Salim Merchant's Emotional Response Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Munawar Faruqui's Stand in Solidarity The entire country is grappling with sorrow and disbelief after a horrifying act of violence shattered the serenity of Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam in Kashmir. On April 22, 2025, a group of unidentified assailants opened fire on unsuspecting vacationers, instantly transforming a peaceful tourist destination into a scene of bloodshed and tragedy. According to initial reports, 26 people were killed and more than 20 suffered injuries in what is now being recognized as one of the most horrifying assaults in the valley in recent musician and singer Salim Merchant expressed his grief and outrage through an emotional video shared on Instagram. With visible distress and sincerity, he denounced the violence and emphasized that such barbarity contradicts every principle of faith. 'Those innocent souls in Pahalgam were attacked simply because they were Hindus. But let's be clear—these perpetrators are not followers of any true faith. They are extremists,' Salim went on to recite a verse from the Quran—Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 256: 'Let there be no compulsion in religion.'He added passionately, 'There is no compulsion in religion.' He added, 'Islam doesn't teach violence. This is not who we are.'Salim's words were soaked in heartbreak and dismay as he continued, ''As a Muslim, I feel ashamed and heartbroken watching my Hindu brothers and sisters being brutally murdered simply for their identity. When will this hatred end? Kashmir had finally begun to heal, and now this. I don't even know how to put my grief and anger into words.'He concluded his post with a prayer, 'May God give strength to the families who have lost their loved ones. I pray for peace in their hearts. Om Shanti.'That same morning, Salim had also shared a brief yet moving message: 'There are no words that can ease such deep sorrow, no verdict swift enough to undo this nightmare. We weep for those lost and ache for those left behind.'Stand-up comedian and actor Munawar Faruqui also voiced his support by reposting Salim's video on his Instagram story, adding a single yet powerful word: 'Facts!'—a quiet but compelling endorsement of Salim's also penned his own somber reflection: 'God doesn't forgive those who shatter hearts—forget spilling innocent blood. Justice will be left trailing as politics surges ahead once more. Grief on this soil has sadly become routine.'
