Take time out for yourself

By Brother Mustafaa Muhammad

In the Name of ALLAH, The Beneficent, The Merciful

Dear Readers, Friends, Supporters and others I will be taking an hiatus from this site for the next few days as a self imposed rest period. There comes a time in all of our lives as we juggle family, children, work, maintaining friendships etc...where we must step ack and just rest. We have to remember that the person in the mirror needs maintenance from time to time. Some people may think you are being selfish or aloof, but The Bible says love your neighbor as you love yourself making self love #1 and important. Though writing is my first love, I still must step way from that which I enjoy to recharge and replenish myself along the mental, spiritual and physical planes of existence.

I think this is a great idea to do from time to time. Do something to relax and unwind from the rigors of life. It can be for 5min, 24 hours or one week but make sure you do something that make you feel good. Heather Headley in her latest song calls this "Me time". Though she was speaking from a female point of view us men need our "me time" too so that we may be recharged.

Some tips for taking time out for yourself by yours truly

#1 Seek a change of scenery. If possible go on a mini vacation to a near by city or even get yourself a nice hotel room with room service and the Jacuzzi. The change of scenery will allow you to get away from the routine and allow the mind to open up to new possibilities.

#2 This may seem little, but a relaxing hot bath does wonders to rejuvenate the mind and body. With the essential oils out now you an actually turn your bath tub into a therapeutic healing center.

#3 How about taking a walk in a different area or to a walking trail. The benefits of walking are known for physical upkeep and also allow the mind and spiritual self to commune in nature.

#4 Don’t be afraid to unplug everyone from your life for a specific period to heal and renew. If they truly love you they will understand and will encourage you to increase self love by doing a unplug.

Thank you for reading these few words and see you when I get back better than ever.

Copyright2006 Mustafaa Muhammad

Today is the greatest day of your life

By
Brother Mustafaa Muhammad

In the Name of ALLAH, The Beneficent, The Merciful

Today is like no other day and it can be the best day of your life if you choose. One of the great powers of the human being is to program your life and determine what you reality will be. What I am speaking about is what some call “Mental Laws”. The mind is a very interesting tool created by the Creator. It is divided into three realms Conscious, subconscious and Super(God) Conscious. The subconscious is the realm that will determine where you go. This portion of your mind doesn’t judge incoming info as right or wrong it accepts all as fact. This is why it is important how you talk to yourself. If you keep saying negative things to yourself(ex. I am stupid, I am never going to succeed) your subconscious accepts this as a reality and the rest of your life can unfold from this negative state of mind.

Well today is a different day. Today is going to be the best day of your life. Why do I say this? I don’t even know you. Today will be the best day of your life when you wake up and determine and say to yourself today is the best day. You may say but I can’t control what others do to me or unexpected-uncontrollable situations. True! However, you have the power to determine how you will respond to any/all negative situations. When negativity comes into your presence you can decide to rise above this or let it drag you down into the doldrums of despair, despondency and defeat. But today is different; you are going to determine a better day for yourself. When you wake up the next morning try saying to yourself “Today is a great day for achieving my goals” “Today is a great day free of stress, lack and hopelessness”. By doing this you are creating within yourself an enthusiastic mind state which allows you to have some pep in your step and slide in your glide.

Enthusiasm according to wikipedia is defined as

“Enthusiasm (Greek: enthousiasmos) originally meant inspiration or possession by a divine afflatus or by the presence of a God. Today it simply means intense enjoyment, interest or approval”


Never ever wake up with an attitude saying to yourself “O well here goes another day” or” I have to go to this old job” or any other negative idea. One of the mental laws states what you think upon grows. Stated another way whatever you think about constantly becomes your reality. Jesus said by your faith(belief) you are healed. Have you ever met those people who seem to just have a great day attitude, have a glow about them? Well today you will be seen as a magnetic, glowing, positively moving person.

Some tips for achieving the greatest day of your life by yours truly

#1 When you first wake up give praise and thanks to the Creator in whatever manner you are used to. Be thankful for another day to live and make advances. Even if you woke up in a cardboard box be thankful because with the gift of life and controlling our thoughts we can change any negative situation.

#2 Talk positive to yourself. Say it loud: “Today is going to be the greatest day of my life”

#3 visualize how you want your day to be. Create a visual check list of the things you must accomplish today.

# 4 Read some scripture(Bible, Qur’an, Torah etc..) or something which speaks to our higher spiritual self.

#5 Create positive affirmations for you to say to yourself through out the day. Examples “I am free and happy” “All praise are due to ALLAH” or “With God all things are possible” “I refuse to submit to unworthy thoughts, plans or actions”

Have a great day! You will only if you decide to.

Thank you for reading these few words

Copyright2006 Mustafaa Muhammad

Al-Jummah The great congregational prayer

By
Brother Mustafaa Muhammad

In the Name of ALLAH, The Beneficent, The Merciful

62:9 O you who believe when the call is sounded for prayer on Friday, hasten to the remembrance of Allah and leave off traffic. That is better for you, if you know.

62:10 But when the prayer is ended, disperse abroad in the land and seek of Allah's grace, and remember Allah much, that you may be successful.

62:11 And when they see merchandise or sport, they break away to it, and leave thee standing. Say: What is with Allah is better than sport and merchandise. And Allah is the Best of Providers.

The above verses from the Holy Qur'an, The Muslim's scripture, gives a commandment from ALLAH, the Most High to the Muslim conerning congregation prayer. This meeting is called in arabic Al-Jummah, which means a great gathering. During this meeting the Imam(Prayer leader) leads the believers in prayer and instructs them in Islamic teachings. This meeting also has other purposes mostly relating to improving social relations among Muslims. It has often been said the family that prays together stays together.

The Honorable Elijah Muhammad writes in Message to the Blackman concerning Jumma'h

"The prayer service is divided into two parts, one to be said in private and the other to be performed in congregation, preferably in a Mosque. While the private part is meant simply for the development of the inner self of man, the public part has other ends as well in view: ends, that, indeed, make the Islamic prayer a mighty force in the unification of the human race.

I the first place, this gathering of all people living in the same vicinity five times daily in the Mosque, is a help to the establishment of healthy social relations. In the daily service these relations are limited to a narrow circle, i.e., to members of the same neighborhood. But the circle becomes wider in the weekly Friday service which gathers together all Muslim members of a particular locality and becomes still wider, in the two great "Id" gatherings.

Thus, prayer promotes social relations between the different sections of the Muslim community. Far more important than this, however, is the leveling of social differences brought about by means of congregational prayer. Once within the doors of the Mosque, every Muslim feels himself in an atmosphere of equality and love. Before their Maker they all stand shoulder to shoulder, the king along with his poorest subject, the rich arrayed in gorgeous robes, the beggar clad in rags. "

During this dark time when Muslims worldwide are being vilifiedd as "Terrorist" "Evil" "Backwards" "Threats" "Satanic" by the top people in the government, politicians, Christian preachers and the common man in the street, I think it is important that we as Muslims come together for our very survival. Is Jummah prayer a sign of a time when Muslims will be united under a righteous Imam? some foolish ones may be afraid of the pospect of Muslims uniting. The image of a Muslims, subconsciously, is being placed in the peoples mind of violent fanatics. The Holy Qur'an teaches that the closet in faith to the believers in that time will be Christians. Again the Qur'an says those who believe whether they are Muslims, Christians or Jews will be rewarded for the best of what they did. This Jummah may very well include all of the true and righteous believers in Almighty God. When Prophet Muhammad(PBUH) sent his followers into Africa to seek safety under a Christian king there was peaceful co-existencee among the believers in faith with their hosts.

To the Muslims, Unite! Unite for righteousness. For the the betterment of our world and the world. As Prophet Muhammad instructed the believers that we are all brothers and sisters in faith. To the followers of different sects in Islam- don't let your different understanding of Islam, The Qur'an, Prophet Muhammad and his Message divide you from another believer. To those of other faiths- seek to learn more about the Muslims instead of from the media. We are your neighbors, co-workers, relatives etc... Rise above your assumed religious superiority and recognize that there isn't a different God for each religion. God is one God it is we here on Eath that are all confused.

Thank you for reading these few words.

Copyright2006Mustafaa Muhammad

Islam as taught by The Hon. Elijah Muhammad comes after everything else fails

By

Brother Mustafaa Muhammad

In the Name of ALLAH, The Beneficent, The Merciful

The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light: they that dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon them hath the light shined (Isiaih 9:6)


All praises be to Allah! Our Terrible condition(in America) was not to last forever. A great light shined in America upon those who have been in the dark for over four centuries. In the Holy Qur’an the (Rahim)Mercy and (Rahman)Beneficence of Allah is mentioned 400 times. Can we honestly reason that Allah would show no mercy towards this black fallen humanity in North America? Many of our black brothers(and sisters too) saw that our condition was not a good condition. Many of them desired to make changes either by Physical Force, Mental-Economic Development or God devotion.

One such man was Nat Turner. He was a man who believed that he was divinely called by God to take actions against the whites of this nation for her mistreatment of her slaves. He and a band of black men went on a murder spree killing many white men, women and children. Although he sent many whites into fear we still remained under our savage condition and they(whites) used this as justification to create tighter laws against us.

Then we have those of our people who believed that Economic-educational development would free us. We created a few businesses after the 1st Reconstruction. We were even allowed to enter politics. During this time many black schools sprung up to prepare us to compete in America. Although these schools had good intentions they still did not teach the knowledge of self nor take into deep enough analysis the effects of slavery on the Black Psyche. After the Southern whites regained their strength, that was lost due to the civil war, they began to strip blacks of all their new found freedom and independence.

One of the most successful black economical enterprises was The Black Wall Street in Tulsa, Oklahoma. One day the whites, under the pretense of the raping of a white woman by a black man, burned down the whole black establishment to the ground. Finally today they have now finally confessed to their faults and are paying the descendants of this crime compensation.


Black Power

Another brother came among us and tried mightily to restore us back into consciousness. His name was Marcus Mosiah Garvey. He came with a very strong Black consciousness message. He desired for us to look at all things through our own eyes as African people. He taught that history, religion, politics, education etc... Should be approached from the point of reference of “Africa” our motherland. He believed in economic independence and tried to start businesses for us. It is also reported that he was influenced by Islam. One book “Christianity, Islam and the Negro race” is said to have had a great impact upon him. He was involved in a dispute about his Black Star Line, a black owned ship company. The whites trumped up charges that he defrauded his people and he was deported to Jamaica. His movement subsequently was broken


The first “Black perspective” orientated Islam that came to the Blacks in America came through a black man named Noble Drew Ali. Noble Drew Ali was a world traveler. He allegedly received education from around the world. He was given the title Noble by a Queen. After years of training he was instructed by a wise man to begin his mission in America among the lost blacks. He began teaching them that Islam was their religion by birth right and that they must return to it now. He called his people Moors or Asiatics. He introduced a Qur’an to us, but it was not the Qur’an revealed to Muhammad ibn Abdullah(PBUH) 1400 years ago. This Koran was filled with his writings, the writings of Marcus Garvey and other “mysticism” writings. He eventually was found dead. His movement was not totally destroyed but it was weakened.


Islam comes to the blacks

Several Sunni/Orthodox Muslims movements came among us and tried to reform, our pitiful condition, with The teachings of The Holy Qur'an and The Sunnah of Muhammad ibn Abdullah(Peace be upon him). Among the most prominent of these missions were the Ahmadiyyah Muslims. Many within the "mainstream" of Islam have declared this group of Muslims disbelievers for certain doctrines they claim. For the purpose of this chapter I will not be exploring the legitimacy of their Islam. This group did major Dawah in the black communities mostly in New York. They distributed the Qur'an and introduced us to an Eastern version of Islam.

In a article, titled "Islam the African in America: The Sunni Experience" by Sheick Abdullah Hakim Quick in The Message magazine, July 1997, Pg. 23, we learn of other prominet Orthodox/Sunni Muslim gropus that tried to reform this Black fallen humanity, in America,

"Other expressions of Islam were also developing during the first half of the twentieth century. According to the research Dr. Sulayman Nyang of Howard University, the African Moslem Welfare Society of America was founded in 1927 by a Sudanese immigrant. It attempted to propagate Islam in the African American community in 1928 and attempted to approach its intsructions using the Arabic language. A community of African Americans in Buffalo, NY who had come in contact with immigrant Muslims and who were being intructed in the Arabic alphabet by 1933, contacted a Professor Ezzal-din, according to one report, had been a Christian minister in Pennsylvania whose congregation had sent him to Rome to further his education. In Rome, he came in contact with an Egptian Muslim who told him that Egypt would be the best place to be for education in religion. He travelled to Egypt, embraced Islam, became fluent in Arabic and studied at Al-Azhar university in Cario. On returning to America, Professor Ezzal-Din formed "Addeynu Allahe Universal Arabic Association" (A.A.U.A.) which eventually spread throughout New York, New Jersey, and as far as Florida. The A.A.U.A members were taught unadulterated Islamic teachings."

One of the biggest problems with Black people learning Islam from a so-called Orthodox/Sunni background, is that they, many times, adopt the culture of Arab people. Further in the Article "Islam the African in America: The Sunni Experience" by Sheick Abdullah Hakim Quick in The Message magazine, July 1997, Pg. 23, we learn the root of this emulation of Arabs,

"This tendency to assume the nationality or the race of the immigrant Muslims was part of the emulation stage. Low self esteem, self hatred, or total self denial are only part of the legacy of slavery that Africans in America had inherited. Islamic identity became a way to forget the past."

I do not doubt that these groups were sincere in their efforts to reform the Black man and woman of America, but they were trying to use a product that had expired as far as its effectiveness. The Prophet of Islam, Muhammad ibn Abdullah, said: "Three generations after him would not be of him", further he said: "Among the best communities are the First and the Last, among the First are the Messenger of Allah(Muhammad of 1400 years ago) and among the last is Jesus, the son of Mary(The Promised Messiah)." If this is true then that means that every thing between the First community and the last community are missing the mark in some degree. Prophet Muhammad wasn't Sunni, Shia, Sufi, Hannibali, Shafi, nor any other sect or school of thought. He was a upright man(Muslim).

Immigrant Muslims have been in America since about 1875, yet until The Nation of Islam came on the scene they mostly wanted to assimilate into the Western world and not promote true Islam.

We cannot go to the East looking for the guidance to lead us on the Siratal Mustaqim(Straight Path). Since they have deviated into sects and parties like the Christians and Jews before. Ultimately the Islamic invasion from the East ended in failure like all other movements that tried to reform us.

May Allah be pleased with the noble efforts of these forerunners who tried mightily to improve life for us in America. They tried all they knew how to make life better. As it was in Arabia 1400 years ago all previous attempts at the reform of Arabs failed The Christians failed, The Jews failed and The Hanifs failed. It was not until Allah rose up a man from among them and entrusted him with Divine Secrets that Arabia was raised from death.

Thank you for reading these few words

Copyright2006 Mustafaa Muhammad

Honor your children

By Brother Mustafaa Muhammad

In the Name of ALLAH, The Beneficent, The Merciful

In this fourth article in the series of rebuilding self, I will take under analysis the role of our children in the redevelopment of our communities, and of us as a people. The first article in the series dealt with the Man, since in the beginning God made man the leader. Next we went on to the woman who is the first teacher and nurturer of the child, because no nation can rise higher than its woman. We have to be very particular with the care and guidance given to our women and children, because they represent the future. A weak woman will give birth to weak children, while a wise strong woman who is in tune with the Lord(God) will produce a child with strength.

The Scripture of the Bible teaches concerning children:
"Provoke not your children to anger lest they be discouraged "Colossians 3:21)

According to the word of ALLAH(God) in both scriptures Bible and Qur’an, we are taught as children to obey our parents so that our days may be long. This great wisdom must be followed if our youth are to ever be great. We must respect and listen to those who have gone before us and learn the mistakes and triumphs of their lives.

A lot of parents love to quote this particular truth and want to be honored and obeyed, but the book says to honor your children as well. Why should we honor our children? Because the child is so special in the eyes of the Creator. Children have had very significant roles in the scriptures of God. For example in the biblical story of Moses, the elders wandered in the wilderness for forty days, while the children inherited the promised land. Elsewhere we read that David was a young boy when he was chosen of God to be king. And lets not forget Jesus who when he was 12 years of age was seen in the temple debating with the scholars and scientist of his day. Finally the book[Bible] says: "and a child shall lead them."

Based on these great truths abuse of our children must come to an end if we are ever to be a great people in the future. When I say abuse I am not just limiting the definition to physical abuse, which is certainly terrible, but I am dealing in particular with the verbal abuse which goes on in many homes which stunts the growth, aspiration and dreams of our children. They say that children come into this world as curious learners observing all little things that we may not pay attention to. They love to ask questions, because they are students of God’s marvelous creation. Many parents find themselves baffled and irritated by the many complex questions that our children may ask. At this stage the young child is very open like a sponge to soak up new ideas (Good or Bad). Jesus said to his disciples that to enter the kingdom of God you must become as a little child. Does that mean we should try to become literal children again? No! It means that as a little child is a curious learner, is a humble learner, so must you be humble and a student. Don’t come proud like you know everything, rather be like the child and open your mind like a sponge to new ideas and concepts.

The Bible again tells us of the plan of Almighty God for us:
"Behold he makes all things new"

Once we take this [New] frame of mind we can qualify ourselves to enter into the heavenly life that will come from us accepting the guidance from God that we need to gain abundance of life.


The Bible says this is the purpose for ALLAH(God) sending his spiritual teaches into the world:

"I came to give you life and that you may have it more abundantly" Gospel of John 10:10

To tie this all up lets examine verbal abuse which may be the most horrible of abuses which you can inflict upon a child. According to the teachings of The Honorable Elijah Muhammad when we were in slavery the slave master would often do brutal acts in front of our women, like lynching, burning a man at the stake, killing her children, these acts put fear within the black woman, and she in turn transformed this fear to her unborn children while in the womb. This fear has traveled down to our times manifested in parents teaching our young children to conform to this world and submit to the master of this world, which is slavery within its self, because we should only submit to God.

Many of our children have brilliant ideas which if were nurtured could manifest into something great for us as a people, but when our children come to their parents with this vision the parents will tell the child that is impossible or the white man isn't going to let you do that. That’s terrible to crush someone's dreams and aspirations. This is hypocritical since these same parents claim to believe in a God whom through all things are possible. Jesus said: "With man things are impossible, but with God all things are possible" If you notice he didn’t say some things are possible he said all things are possible. 

I believe we have to study our history in America and do some self analysis, self examination and then self correction of our minds to rid ourselves of this slave mentality, which stunts our growth and development and our children's also. In addition, we must stop this madness of discouraging our children when they come to us with ideas which we may not understand. We must trust God and encourage your child to know that with God there is nothing impossible and that what the mind can conceive the body can achieve.

Thank you for reading these words

Copyright2006 Mustafaa Muhammad

Http://brothermustafaa.com

Marriage material

By
Brother Mustafaa Muhammad

In the Name of ALLAH, The Beneficent, The Merciful

Marriage! The "M" word has made many men tremble from the thought of being "tied down" or "lockdown". These are of course the world's definition of marriage. However in ISLAM, entire submission to the will of God, marriage takes on a new meaning. Ibadah is a Islamic word meaning service or worship. According to the teachings of Islam all things done with the intentions of pleasing ALLAH are Ibadah(Worship). Marriage is one of the highest services we can render in the name of ALLAH. Why? The Qur'an teaches that ALLAH created all things in pairs. This includes nature and the highest form of relation, the human being. Man and woman are twin souls from s single essence-ALLAH. Thus marriage is the journey of two souls to become one in mind, spirit and purpose.

In Islam your husband or wife is not just anybody they became your part-ner. They will show you a part of yourself and help you grow in the divine part of self that was missing. Ah the joys of marriage. The goal of Human beings in Islam is to meet with ALLAH. "O Soul that is at rest" teaches the Qur'an is our goal. Can you imagine being a soul at rest with your Lord? Divine marriage is a key in helping you connect with ALLAH, The Lord of the worlds. I heard Minister Farrakhan say that a man is not serious about growing spiritually if he isn't thinking about marriage. Think about that! Well why are we running from marriage? Why do we settle to be just "Boyfriends" and "Girlfriends". In proper Islamic practice we have no such concept as a "Boyfriend" nor "Girlfriend". These titles are too cheap for the man and woman of God. However, we live in a backwards world where Good is seen as bad and bad is seen as good. So, when I as a young man don't walk around with a girlfriend, but would rather have a wife this is looked upon as strange. But think about this, I am not a boy therefore I am not looking for a girl. If you don't subscribe to Islamic teachings still don't cheapen yourself by just being a boyfriend or girlfriends. Be a partner(Husband or wife) and grow together in the name of your Lord.

Thank you for reading these few words.

Copyright2006 Mustafaa Muhammad

Anger--- handle it or it will handle you!

By
Brother Mustafaa Muhammad

In the Name of ALLAH, The Beneficent, The Merciful

"Allah's Apostle said, "The strong is not the one who overcomes the people by his strength, but the strong is the one who controls himself while in anger." Prophet Muhammad(Peace be upon him)

The above Hadith(Saying) attributed to Prophet Muhammad is one of my favorite saying of this misunderstood Prophet of ALLAH. As one who has dealt with anger for many years the first time I read these words, many years ago, I was compelled to reflect on what real strength is.

It is a natural response to respond angrily when one feels they have been wronged(Real or imagined). However, Muhammad ibn Abdullah teaches it is real strength to rise above what is natural(Anger) and take the high road. Imagine if we followed this advice when interacting with our wives, husbands, children, co-workers, co-religionist and family? There would be more peace, because we would withhold unleashing hurtful words or actions in the moment of anger and would rather use our intellectual faculties to rise above emotions into the thinking of God as Minister Farrakhan teaches.

Lets from this day, if we are angered easily, try to take these words into consideration the next time we are confronted with a situation that makes our blood boil.

Practical tips for dealing with anger by your truly

1) Get away from the source of your anger temporarily or in extreme cases permanently.

2) Take a walk to "cool off".

3) Take a deep breath. BREATHE!

4) Think about the big picture. What are your angry words or physical actions in anger going to improve?

5) Go to a place of solitude and scream or hit something (Just not the thing that makes you angry-smile)

6) Write a letter detailing why you are angry. This letter doesn't have to be sent, however it is therapeutic in allowing you to release emotions by in a sense telling off the person or situation.

7) Know that you better than to allow your anger to make you do something you may regret for the rest of your life by hurting yourself or the ones you love.

Thank you for reading!

Copyright2006 Mustafaa Muhammad

Soul 2 Soul Part 2

By

Brother Mustafaa Muhammad

In the Name of ALLAH, The Beneficent, The Merciful

My soul is lifted high like a tree.

Beautiful bright days I am begining to see.

In high elevated places The Almighty promised we'll be.

The pains of yesterday have been swept away.

With God by my side everthings ok.

My soul is lifted and my soul is bright like the sun.

My days are bright.

My pains are gone like the night.

In the quiet of my mind I have come to be peacefully.

Copyright2006 Mustafaa Muhammad

My letter to a racist anti-Islamic bigot

(This letter is being reposted because it answers many questions I commonly receive concerning my viewpoint on Christins, the war, Arabs, Islam in the modern world, Muslims vs. Christians, “Terrorism” and other question many have for Muslims.) Brother Mustafaa Muhammad

[On October 30 2002 in an editorial for my local newspaper, The Pensacola News Journal, a writer presented a article "Terror War has just begun" by Mr. Cal Thomas. In this article the author presents his case that Muslims and the religion of Islam are to be feared by Americans and Christians. In the letter that follows I offer a response as a follower and lover of Islam.]

In the Name of ALLAH

I greet you in the words of Peace and Paradise AS-Salaam Alaikum!

I am writing this correspondence to you after reading your editorial in my local newspaper (The Pensacola News Journal)

Let me first introduce myself. My name is Mustafaa Abdul Muhammad, as you know by my name, I am a Muslim. I am a young believer in God, who had my spiritual birth March 20th 1996, where in the presence of others and in the presence of my Lord I declared that I would live a exemplarily life reflecting all that is good. I was resurrected by the teachings of Islam, The Qur’an and the example of The Prophet of Islam. Prior to my spiritual birth, I lived a life that to say the least was “Dishonorable”. I indulged in all the things that popular culture makes attractive to young men and women sex, alcohol, not going to school, drugs etc...

My main concern for writing this letter to you is to give some balance to an editorial, while I understand the fear and concern for America’s safety, that seems to only want to make Arabs and/or Muslims as the only “bad guys” on the planet. I write these words in the spirit of the great Martin Luther King Jr who said: “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.”
Sir, as a Blackman who was born and raised in the United States, I couldn’t help but remember a couple of passages in the Bible by Jesus(Peace Be Upon Him). The foremost being the first part of Matthew Chap 7 1-5 and John 8 3-11. I will quote these verses below and how they made me feel in response to your editorial.

The first verses, as related in Matthew 7, deals with the subject matter of judging others. While most authorities of the Bible believe that it is no sin to judge, but that we must judge righteously.
Judging others

1"Do not judge, or you too will be judged. 2For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. 3"Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? 4How can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out of your eye,' when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? 5You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye. “

The second set of verses, as related in John 8, describe a situation where Jesus(Peace Be Upon Him) intervened to save a woman from being unjustly judged.
3The teachers of the law and the Pharisees brought in a woman caught in adultery. They made her stand before the group 4and said to Jesus, "Teacher, this woman was caught in the act of adultery. 5In the Law Moses commanded us to stone such women. Now what do you say?" 6They were using this question as a trap, in order to have a basis for accusing him. 7But Jesus bent down and started to write on the ground with his finger. When they kept on questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, "If any one of you is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone at her." 8Again he stooped down and wrote on the ground. 9At this, those who heard began to go away one at a time, the older ones first, until only Jesus was left, with the woman still standing there. 10Jesus straightened up and asked her, "Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?" 11"No one, sir," she said. "Then neither do I condemn you," Jesus declared. "Go now and leave your life of sin."

I cannot, in good conscience, allow this one sided view where Muslims, The God of Islam, Prophet Muhammad, Arabs and the religion of Islam are being portrayed as the worst peoples on the Earth. In truth all of us have done evil in our practice of religion whether we claim Christianity, Islam or others. But this fact seems to be forgotten by some “White Christians”.

In an article by William Loren Katz titled Thanksgiving Day, published on The Final Call website 11-22-01, he explains how the early “Christian” settlers gave trouble to the Indian “Inferiors”

and “Infidels”.

He says:
“Gov. Bradford and those who followed in his footsteps also cast the first Thanksgiving as an example of fellowship by claiming that Pilgrims and Wampanougs shared bread, turkey and other treats. The English, so this version goes, invited the Native Americans to dinner. Since the English classified Indians as inferiors and infidels, if invited the kindly Wamp-anougs were probably asked to serve, not share, the food.

As the English gained military strength, they rejected friendship. One night in 1637, without provocation, Gov. Bradford, as commander of the colony, dispatched his militia against his dark-skinned neighbors. A devout Christian who saw his colonists locked in mortal combat with heretics, he sent his soldiers to conduct a surprise assault on sleeping men, women and children in a Pequot Indian village. Gov. Bradford used these words to describe his night of fire and death:

"It was a fearful sight to see them frying in the fire and the streams of blood quenching the same and horrible was the stink and stench thereof. But the victory seemed a sweet sacrifice and they [the Massachusetts militiamen] gave praise thereof to God."

Gov. Bradford appears in U.S. history texts as a hero who helped the Pilgrims survive. The popular Dictionary of American History summarized his rule in these words:

"He was a firm, determined man and an excellent leader; kept relations with the Indians on friendly terms; tolerant toward newcomers and new religions. ..."

Another U.S. textbook hero, the Rev. Increase Mather, the Puritans* minister, called on his congregation to give thanks to God for the attack "that on this day we have sent 600 heathen souls to hell."

In a Book titled “What if Blacks didn’t exist?” by author Felix Ehui the Author differentiates between the “Christianity” practiced by the Europeans and the “Christianity” practiced by those under her oppression. He explains it as:

“Since slavery, there have always been two kinds of Christianities in America: the one that Europeans control and the one that tries to be true to its African roots.”(pg.22)

Since the 15th century, the coming of the European “Christians” in boats has been the slavery, suffering and death of the non-white and non-Christians human family of the Earth.

This history seems to be accurately summed up in a book in the Bible named Habakkuk 2:6-12

'Woe to him who piles up stolen goods and makes himself wealthy by extortion… You have plundered many nations… For you have shed man's blood; you have destroyed lands and cities and everyone in them. "Woe to him who builds his realm by unjust gain to set his nest on high, to escape the clutches of ruin! You have plotted the ruin of many peoples, shaming your own house and forfeiting your life. The stones of the wall will cry out, and the beams of the woodwork will echo it. "Woe to him who builds a city with bloodshed and establishes a town by crime!”

This brutal history of Christianity seems to have been foretold by Constantine, the ruler of Rome, who one day had a vision of a sign of Christianity. In this vision he saw a cross and the Latin words “In Hoc Signos Wincas” which translated means “With this sign we conquer. It is a common saying among some people that when the European Christians came to the people “The people got the Bible and the “Christians” got the land”. It is these kinds of shameful doings in the name of Jesus that, I believe, has the whole world community “angry”. As Jesus said “These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me.” Maybe just maybe these are the “people of the book” that were refereed to when you tried to make it as though Muslims have a desire to kill “Christians” because they are Christians. That is totally inconsistent with the teachings of The Holy Qur’an that teaches “The nearest in faith to you will be the Christians.” This is also totally inconsistent with the history of The Prophet of Islam Muhammad ibn Abdullah(Peace be upon him). According to history Muhammad and his followers had to suffer persecution, from his countrymen, when he first started to teach Islam. The persecution included torture, imprisonment and even murder. It got so volatile that Muhammad(Peace be upon him) had to ask his followers to leave. He told his followers to go to the Christian nation of Ethiopia in Africa for refuge. Under arrangements the Muslims and Christians lived side by side in peace.

Also another point you seem to have conveniently left out of your article is the growing “anti-American” sentiments among some white Americans commonly called militias. There are many in this country other than Muslims, Arabs, Blacks and Indians who feel rightly or wrongly that they have suffered under their own government. Timothy McVeigh was reportedly supposed to belong to one of these militias. From what I read of him he was a Christian, military veteran, yet he did an evil act against his country. Correct me if I am wrong, but I have not seen the same kind of profiling or flaming rhetoric against militias, Christians or young white males. This beautiful country of America is becoming an increasingly dangerous place to live. Whether you are Muslim, Christian, Jewish or anything else we all can become hurt under this violent culture. This point is perfectly illustrated in the recent school shootings. And in particular the recent incidents of a white male, who shot the nurses and teachers, on the campus of school.

I hope this letter will not be seen as the “quote on quote” Muslim aggression against Christians. Much of my family and friends still remains Christians. Do you think I don’t love them? I have the greatest love and respect for them. I also have the greatest love and respect for those who truly strive to carry into practice what Jesus(Peace Be Upon Him). I just do not like hypocrisy, double standards and injustice by Christians against Muslims in portraying them as the only off course people on the planet.

Sincerely yours

Mustafaa Muhammad

How vain are you?

This was an interesting poll sent to me. As you can see I am 46% vain lol. If you have some free time or just need to get a laugh try out this quiz to see how you stack up in vanity. How vain are you?

You Are 46% Vain

You're a little vain, but more than anything you have a healthy amount of confidence. Thinking the world of yourself is great. Just don't think less of those who aren't as pretty as you!

How Vain Are You?

The benefits of friendship

By Brother Mustafaa Muhammad

In the Name of ALLAH, The Beneficent, The Merciful

[This piece is dedicated to those who have been friends to me past and present. This article is also dedicated to one of my best friends who committed suicide on August 17 2004, a loss I have not completely recovered from. Also, I want to give a special shout out to my best friend Josh Collins for being there all the time.]

There is nothing like friends. True friends that is. Those who have experienced the thrill of having someone you can call a friend is an great feeling. Sometimes that friend comes in the person of a wife, husband, child, co-worker, co-religionists or parent. However, whatever form it comes its the same-it feels great.

According to wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Friendship is defined as:

"Â Friendship is a term used to denote co-operative and supportive behaviorr between two or more social entities. In this sense, the term connotes a relationship which involves mutual knowledge, esteem, and affection. Friends will welcome each other's company and exhibit loyalty towards each other, often to the point of altruism. Their tastes will usually be similar and may converge, and they will share enjoyable activities. They will also engage in mutually helping behavior, such as exchange of advice and the sharing of hardship. A friend is someone who may often demonstrate reciprocating and reflective behaviors. Yet for many, friendship is nothing more than the trust that someone or something will not harm them."

Jesus, The Christ(Peace be upon him) laid down friendship as thus:

"No one has greater love than this, to lay down one's life for one's friends."(John 15:13)"

Throughout my short life, I have had some wonderful people who have come into my life who I consider friends. Amazingly, for lack of better word, these friends have always been placed in my life at the right time to help me experience love, grow, share knowledge, laugh, cry and be comforted.

In true friendships you can experience an intimacy(closeness) which makes each able to talk about anything. This world has reduced intimacy to the level of physical sexual expression, which is one form of intimacy. However, you can experience intimacy on the mental, emotional and spiritual plane. I will also add, off topic, that physical intimacy that isn't preceded by mental, spiritual and emotional intimacy is a cheat to both partners. Intimacy in the term of frinedships means closness, which comes by developing trust. My best friend Josh Collins and I laugh all the time on the range of topics we talk about. Nothing and I mean nothing is taboo in our talks.

Another benefit of friendship is just having that person to whom will listen completely. I have learned through study that listening is skill that many of us are poor at. There is a differene between hearing and listening. Hearing is the physical act of sound vibrating off the ear drum. Listening is an intellectual process proess of actively hearing and reflecting. Most of the time we know how to solve our problems, but we still crave for that person who will just let us unload all our thoughts. Friends do this.

In friendships you also have the chance to grow/share knowledge, ideas, plans and work together. In this journey called life, I believe, The Creator sends people in our life at times to help us through this journey. When these special friends come they bring their wealth of knowledge and experience. To comment on the above quoted words of Jesus(peace be upon him) friendship is not about receiving but giving. He was considered a friend and a good shepard, because he was willing to "lay down his life" for his friends. Friendship was also shown in the life of Prophet Muhammad ibn Abdullah(Peace be upon him). While being perseuted in Mecca for years he sent his friends(followers) away to safety while he suffered the pain.

Lastly, a friend will tell you what you may need to hear, but may not want to hear. In our own minds we all want to think we are alright and there is nothing wrong with us. And if we acknowledge fault-we may minimize to the point of not dealing with it. This is where the friend comes in. They see things in us that we suppressing and out of their love and concern make us recognize this fault. Those who are my friends have no problem calling me and telling me like it is. At times, to be honest, I may not like it initially. Later on after thinking about who this is coming from and their intentions I can look at their words of encouragement and grow. This is one of the great values of friends-they help keep a check on us.

If you have been blessed to have a friend or friends cherish those special person for the Godsends they are. If you are neglecting your friendships-stop it and nurture them and they will return the love. Be a friend and a friend will be a friend!

More to come.

Thank you for reading!

Copyright2006 Mustafaa Muhammad

6-6-6, Hip hop and the return to conscious music

By
Brother Mustafaa Muhammad

In the Name of ALLAH, The Beneficent, The Merciful


The title of this article is well known in the religious world, particularly the Judeo-Christian Western world. These numbers have been known to strike up fear in persons and conversation on the fulfillment of these numbers. If you are not aware, these numbers are defined as the mark of the beast. According to the book of Revelations it teaches that the number of the beast is 6.

I was “somewhat” amazed at the reaction some black people had on this date. On a local radio station there was a hour long call in show dedicated to this topic. One woman said she didn’t recognize the date until she wrote a check, which she tore up immediately. Others gave there various opinions on the implications of Satan, the Beat and this number 6-6-6.

In the midst of the hysteria of the date a profound album was released by one of the most respected veterans in the rap game. I speak of none other than Ice Cube. “Laugh now Cry later” is the name of the latest solo album by Ice Cube which is being received with positive reviews and acclaims. Before we discuss the current album it may be needed for some to know the history of Ice Cube musically.

After breaking with NWA in the late 80’s over internal disputed with his fellow bandmates(Dr Dre, Mc Ren, Easy E, Yella and the label Ruthless records) He embarked on a solo career which saw the ground breaking “Amerikkka’s most wanted” followed up with his "Death certificate" album, which I believe is one of the finest album of the conscious era of rap. Four more albums would follow over the next few years which continued the lyrical tradition he established.

One of the things that stood out to me as a young black man listening to his early music was the inclusion of the teachings of The Hon. Elijah Muhammad and The Hon. Louis Farrakhan in his records. Others included in the commentary were Malcom X and the late Khalid Abdul Muhammad. By adding these artists, Ice cube’s music was not only entertaining but educational. I was really inspired to listen to Minister Farrakhan and Khalid Abdul Muhammad after hearing Cube’s Death certificate album. He even included and endorsement of the Nation of Islam as the “best place for young blackmen and women."

Coming back to the present, Ice cube’s return to music is a great thing because of his ability to make you think as well as groove.

The date of release, title and content of the album are not with out significance when you consider this is a man who has bore witness to Master Fard Muhammad, The Hon. Elijah Muhammad, Minister Louis Farrakhan and the body of knowledge they represent called “Supreme wisdom”. The exploiters of the poor may be laughing now, but will be crying later. The Nation of Islam has taught for now 76 years that America must pay for her sins to the Blackman and woman here in America.

The songs of this album are classic Ice cube at his best addressing the issues of racism, poverty, drugs, violence, gangs, self hate, wicked government and exploitation of the weak by the strong. The first single titled “Why we thugs” talks straight to the brother and sister in the street who may not be aware that everything that is going on in our communities was well planned by wickedly great scientists. It is not an accident that death pervades our communities in one form or another. Songs on the albulm like "The Ni**a Trap" reminds one of the Willie Lynch program. From when Ice cube first dropped his first album in 1990 until now 2006 much hasn’t changed. I have grown up into a civilized man and follower of The Hon. Elijah Muhammad, under the leadership of Minister Farrakhan, however I will always be thankful that there was an Ice cube speaking street knowledge in a language that a fool like me could hear and understand. Welcome back Brother Ice Cube and keep putting the message in Music.

To those who may still be scared of the beast and 6-6-6, I leave you with these words from Ice cube’s song “When I Get To Heaven”.

“You waiting for the devil to come from the ground clown take a look around.” Ice cube


Thank you for reading these words.

Copyrght2006 Mustafaa Muhammad

So Many Doors

By Brother Mustafaa Muhammad

In the Name of ALLAH, The Beneficent, The Merciful

~These are words that I wrote on 3-16-05 at 10:51 am as a means of purging myself of many things that had come upon me at that time and as a pep talk to myself. I have found that writing is therapeutic to the mind and soul. I have come a long way and made many advances. Yet, sometime I feel the need to review these words from time to time written on that dark night. May you be blessed to find balance and glory in your life that our Creator desires for us. Mustafaa 12:53 ~


1) My life is filled with so many doors. So many choices to be made. Only my Lord-ALLAH knows the depth of my conflicted emotions. With a life filled with so many doors, I don't know the way anymore. What if I choose a door and its wrong -will I be granted another day to sing another song.

2) Job said life is filled with sorrow, but we as humans go to sleep anticipating tommrow. Why is this so?What gives us the drive to go? It must be he who is the source of all things who will bring things towards their ultimate goal and make them whole.

3) As the sun rises tommorow so will my sorrow. All things I don't understand will be brought forth clearly. As the sun reaches its height so will my might be uplifted. I don't have time for tears to pour--I just have to decide which DOOR!

Thank you for reading

Copyright2006 Mustafaa Muhammad