Islamic prayer is a physical gesture with bows, prostrations, and periods of standing and sitting on the floor. These postures are meaningful and important, representing our humility before our Lord and Creator. Nevertheless, it may not be possible for an individual to perform the prayers as intended if they are suffering from an injury, illness, or physical disability. What is the worshipper then to do?
I personally dealt with this, through a sprained ankle and more recently a torn knee. Speaking from first-hand experience, it can be quite painful to attempt sujood in such a condition. Muslims should remember that Allah is Merciful and Just, and does not ask us for more than we can bear. Even the most fundamental practice of prayer has exceptions and alternatives which we should freely (and without guilt or shame) embrace.
In the case of travel, it is well-known that one may postpone or combine some of the five daily prayers. In case of injury or illness, it is also accepted to pray while sitting or even laying down. This allowance comes straight from the Quran: "Indeed, in the creation of the heavens and the earth, and the alternation of night and day, are signs for those of understanding. Those who remember Allah standing, sitting, and lying down on their sides, and think deeply abut the creation of the heavens and earth, saying 'Our Lord! You have not created all this without purpose. Glory to You! Give us salvation from the torment of the Fire.'" (Quran 3:190-191)
May Allah bless us all with good health.
As we reported last summer, the French parliament voted overwhelmingly to ban face veils in that country. The new law, which goes into effect today, has been largely targeted at Muslim women who wear the niqab. It is now illegal and punishable by fine to cover one's face in public places within France. Women who defy the ban and wear a face veil in public face a 150 Euro fine for each offense. If it can be proven that a man forced a woman to veil, he would face an even stiffer penalty. The New York Times reports today that the ban is expected to face swift legal challenges.
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There have been numerous claims lately that Judgment Day may come either on May 21st of this year, or on 21 November 2012. Throughout history, there have been people who tried and failed to predict the end of the world. For Muslims, such talk is nonsense. While Muslims do believe in a Day of Judgment and a life after death, the Quran clearly states that the exact time is known only to God:
Men ask you of the Hour. Say: The knowledge of it is with God only. What can convey to you that maybe the Hour is near? (Quran 33:63)
The threatened hour is near. None beside God can disclose it. Are you surprised then at this statement? (Quran 53:57-59)
With international Earth Day coming up (April 22nd), what better time is there to pick up a new book about Islam and the environment? In the book, Green Deen: What Islam Teaches About Protecting the Planet, author Ibrahim Abdul-Matin outlines Islam's teachings about the environment, and encourages Muslims to become more conscious of what they can do to protect the planet. The book is filled with inspirational, personal stories of American Muslims who are making a difference.
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