Saturday, December 25, 2010

Recipe - Halal Chicken Wings ;)

Salams,

How many times have you seen the most good looking chicken wings and have not been able to eat them because they were haram? How many times have you ordered wings from a Halal place but had them too dry and tasteless? And how many times were you hungry at home but didn't know what to eat? Well have no fear, Muslim Youth Girls Association is here! lol :)

Below are the ingredients and steps required for creating some legit halal Buffalo style wings.

Enjoy!




Ingredients:

2/3 cup Frank's Louisiana hot sauce
1 stick (1/2 cup) cold unsalted butter
1 1/2 tablespoons white vinegar
1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon Tabasco sauce or other hot sauce you prefer
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
salt to taste (around 1 pinch)

Directions:

Bring all your ingredients (except the wings) to a simmer in a pot over medium heat. Keep stirring your butter with a whisk to have it melt in,
and as soon as you see a few bubbles come up on the sides, turn it off.

To prepare your wings, place them on a sheet pan wrapped with aluminum foil and sprayed with non-stick vegetable oil.sprinkle some salt on them and black pepper if you wish. Stick them in a 450 degree oven for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, flip your wings and bake them for another 20 minutes. Don't over bake them, unless required, because then they will turn out dry.

Place your chicken wings in a stainless steel bowl, and slowly pour the sauce over them. Place a plate on top of the bowl so you'll be able to shake the wings. Shake the wings so you get the sauce coated all over the wings. You can serve as it is, however, if you want them a bit drier; drain the oil, place the wings back on the pan and stick them in the oven for another 10 minutes
***keep the oven off when you do that step***

Say Bismillah before you eat :)

Friday, December 24, 2010

Hadith: Friday's

The Prophet (p.b.u.h) said, "Whoever takes a bath on Friday, purifies himself as much as he can, then uses his (hair) oil or perfumes himself with the scent of his house, then proceeds (for the Jumua prayer) and does not separate two persons sitting together (in the mosque), then prays as much as (Allah has) written for him and then remains silent while the Imam is delivering the Khutba, his sins in-between the present and the last Friday would be forgiven."
Sahih Al Bukhari 2:8

Modern Hijabi

Salams,

Tell us what you think of this look. It's a bit different from our other styles, it's definatley edgier. The pic is a bit crammed, yes, but we couldn't help it. Again, stuck with the option of black or color, and flats or heels lol. So you decide how you'd like to wear it.

For more modern hijabi pics, check out our link above or scroll through our pages below :)


Opening and Closing Dua's

Salams and happy Juma'a!

Thanks to our wonderful dad, we were able to start a nice little weekly halaqa, starting first with our family members, then hopefully moving on to have other girls join, and then watching a movie afterward. Its a nice way to keep our selves refreshed with Islam's wonderful message, to socialize with other young Muslimahs and have just plain good fun.

This weekend when we were discussing topic ideas for the halaqa, it hit us that there needs to be an opening and closing dua. After some googling and a short talk with our friendly neighbourhood Imam, we learned the duas and decided to share it with you too :) Below are the duas, written out by "Sisters Halaqa". They also have their own blog with great articles that you should check out.

Suggestions when beginning a speech

It is desirable that any speech should begin with the praise (al-hamd) of Allah. It is also desirable to send salawaat upon the Prophet saws, and some form of istighfaar (asking the forgiveness of Allah).

Innalhamda lillahee, nahmaduhu wa nasta'eenuhu wa nastaghfiruhu, wa na'oodhu billaahi min shuroori anfusinaa wa min sayyiaati a'maalinaa. Mainyah dihillaahu falaa mudillilahu, wa mainyudlil falaa haadiya lah.

"Alhumdulillah. Indeed, all praise is due to Allah. We praise Him and seek His Help and forgiveness. We seek refuge in Allah from our souls' evils and our wrong doings. He whom Allah guides, no one can misguide; and he whom He misguides, no one can guide."
(Ibn Mas'ud and Ibn 'Abbas in Muslim, Abu Dawud, an-Nasai and others)

Wa ashhadu anlaa ilaaha illalaahu, wahdahu laashareeka lahu, wa ash hadu anna muhammadan 'abduhu wa rasooluh.

"I bear witness that there is no god except Allah- alone without any partners. And I bear witness that Muhammad is His 'abd (servant) and Messenger."

Allahumma salli 'alaa muhammadinwa 'alaa aali muhammadinwa 'alaa aali muhammadin kamaa sallayta 'alaa aali ibraaheema innaka hameedumajeed. Allahumma baarik 'alaa muhammadinwa 'alaa aali muhammadin kamaa baarakta 'alaa aali ibraaheema wa 'alaa aali ibraheema innaka hameedum majeed.

"O Allah, send prayers upon Muhammad and the followers of Muhammad, just as You sent prayers upon Ibraheem and upon the followers of Ibraheem. Verily you are full of praise and majesty. O Allaah, send blessings upon Muhammad and upon the family of Muhammad, just as You sent blessings upon Ibraheem and upon the family of Ibraheem. Verily, You are full of praise and majesty." ( Al-Bukhari with Al-Fath)

Closing Dua

The Messenger of Allah stated: "When one of your prays, begin with the praise and lauding of Allah. Then make prayers upon the Prophet, and supplicate whatever you with of Allah."
(Fidhalah ibn 'Ubaid in Ahmad, Abu Dawud, and At-Tirmidhi)

************************************************************************************

When closing the speech

The Messenger of Allah stated: "When one of your prays, begin with the praise and lauding of Allah. Then make prayers upon the Prophet, and supplicate whatever you with of Allah."
(Fidhalah ibn 'Ubaid in Ahmad, Abu Dawud, and At-Tirmidhi)

Closing Du'a

Subhaana rabbika rabbil'izzati 'ammaa yasifoon. Wasalaamul 'alal mursaleen. Walhamdu lillaahi rabbil 'aalameen.

"Glory be to your Lord, the Lord of Might above what they describe. And peace be upon those sent. And praise be to Allah, the Lord of the worlds." (Surah As-Saffat 37:180-182)

Subhanakallahumma wa bihamdika, ash hadu anlaa ilaaha illa anta, astaghfiruka wa atoobu ilaik.

"How perfect You are O Allaah, and I praise You. I bear witness that none has the right to be worshipped except You. I seek Your forgiveness and turn to You in repentance"
(Abu Dawud, At-Tirmidhee, Ibn Majah).

Conclude with Surah Al-'Asr (surah 103)

Wednesday, November 17, 2010

Eid Outfit :)

Salam

This is what we're loving this Eid.

This Fall + Winter Dark hues are going to take over the light colored styles of Spring and Summer. We love the dark greens, reds and purples. Pair those colors with a brown, cream or any other neutral and ta da! you have a to die for outfit.

For this outfit we have two heels to chose from, we couldn't decide, both go very well. So when you are making your version of this outfit, that choice is up to you :)

Have a fabulous Eid
-MYGA


Tuesday, November 16, 2010

Eid Mubarak :)

Salams

Eid ul Adha Mubarak to everyone!
We hope that you have a fun safe and eventful Eid Inshallah

May Allah accept all our prayers, duas and fasts
May He accept all Muslims pilgrimages and bring them back home safely
May Allah give us all wisdom, respect, health, success and Iman
May He keep us away from shame, shaitan, shirk, hypocrisy, jealousy, hatred and crime
May Allah keep us on the straight path, guide us through darkness and keep us united as one
May He Help us in helping others and accept our dua's. Inshallah.
Ameen!

xo-- MYGA

Monday, November 15, 2010

The Day Of Arafat + Hadith

Arafat
Who What When Where Why?

On the 9th of Zhul Hijjah, every year, for a single day, over two million people go to arafat to take part in one of the most important steps in the pilgrimage to Hajj. Arafat is a plain, a short distance away from Mecca, Saudi Arabia. It is the place that the prophet Muhammad (pbuh) gave his last sermon. Muslims spend their time (noon till dusk) praying and making dua for forgiveness and entrance to paradise in the hereafter. Muslims who did not go to Hajj can get rewards on the day of Arafat by fasting.

Fasting on the day of ‘Arafah is a confirmed Sunnah for those who are not performing Hajj. It was narrated from Abu Qataadah (R.A) that the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) was asked about fasting on the day of ‘Arafah and he said: “It expiates for the past and coming years.”
 [Muslim 1162]


Tuesday, October 26, 2010

Pink Hijab Day: Outfit

Salam,

This outfit was inspired by Global Pink Hijab Day (Wednesday October 27th)
It was created on MYGA's new handy dandy polyvore account :)- Fashion made easier.

**wear sleeves under or a black trench coat on top**

Tell us what you think.



Hadith: Charity

The Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) said: "Every act of goodness is charity."
                                                           - Sahih Muslim, Hadith 496 

Global Pink Hijab Day

Salam,

This WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 27th is GLOBAL PINK HIJAB DAY!

 Pink Hijab day  is designed to encourage Muslim women and men to participate in breast cancer awareness activities. The event also encourages the curious to ask Muslim women about their Hijabs, or Islamic headscarves. All over the world, Muslims participated by wearing pink hijabs, pink ribbons, and donating to breast cancer foundations.

How did Pink Hijab Day Start?

Pink Hijab Day began in 2004 in a small high school in Columbia, Missouri. A group of girls decided to wear pink hijabs one day to encourage others to ask questions about their hijabs and about Islam. After more and more people began participating, the Susan G. Komen Foundation was conacted and Pink Hijab Day had its start.

What is the purpose of Pink Hijab Day?
1) To raise awareness and funds for cancer foundations across the globe.
2) To encourage the curious to ask questions about Hijab to better understand Muslim women
3) To encourage Muslims to participate in activism that reaches beyond religious, ethnic, and national borders

Who can participate in Pink Hijab Day?
Anyone! Anyone can wear a pink item, whether it's a pink Hijab, a pink ribbon, or pink socks. In 2008, a group of students in Canada dyed kufis and wore pink kufis. Even if you don't wear anything pink, you can donate to any local cancer foundation to make a difference

What can I do for Pink Hijab Day?
The list is endless! Here is a list of a few ideas:

•Wear a pink hijab, ribbon, shirt, shoelace...ANYTHING!
•Donate to a local cancer research organization
•Organize a walk, or join a local walk for cancer
•Encourage the Imam at your masjid to focus his khutba on issues related social activism, health, and breast cancer
•Send the press release to local media outlets
•Organize a panel discussing women in Islam, Hijab, and/or Islam and social activism
•Contact your local Islamic School or MSA to participate in the project
•Distribute information about breast cancer prevention and general health
•Text/email all of your friends about Pink Hijab Day!

How can I start a Pink Hijab Day movement in my area?
Click on the "In Your Neighborhood" link on the website and see if your area is already participating. If not, fill out a form and become a representative for your area. Then start rounding up participants to join you in healing with Hijabs!

CHECK OUT http://www.pinkhijabday.net/ for more information!

Saturday, September 11, 2010

Eid Mubarak!

SubhanAllah,
It seems like just a few days ago Ramadan started, but it's actually the second day of Eid ul Fitr.
Alhamdullilah the month of Ramadan holds so much barakah, and even though the days were supposed to be long, they passed in the blink of an eye.

We wish you, your family and Muslims all around the world a very blessed Eid. May Allah swt accept all your prayers, hopes and dreams. And may Allah swt give us all guidance and Iman, and keep us away from shaytan and the punishment of the hereafter. Ameen.

Eid Mubarak to all!
with love, MYGA

Thursday, August 12, 2010

Ramadan Mubarak!

Asalamualaikum,

Yesterday, August 11 2010, was the first official day of Ramadan Alhamdullilah! As a Muslim you see your home go into a wonderful transition for Ramadan, everyone prepares themself and their homes in their own way. You feel much closer to Allah, and your love for Islam grows. Dinners are even more joyous than ever and going to the Masjid for Taraweeh is like sealing every day of your fast.

During this month we need to remember that fasting is not only abstinence from food and water, but it is much more. During this month Muslims all over the world practice self control, over their desires and physical needs during the daylight hours. The eyes must restrain from seeing bad things, the ears must restrain from hearing bad things, the tongue must restrain from saying bad things, and the hand must restrain from doing bad things.

By doing this, we learn to have control over our bodies and our desires. We put these things aside to become closer to Allah. And our bodies and desires, no longer have control over us.
We also learn how it feels to be not able to eat and drink for long periods of time like poor people. And we learn to respect them and willingly give our share of zakat (charity) or even more.
During this month we also go through a cleanse, a bodily and spiritual cleanse. We spiritually go through a cleanse because we restrain from bad things and we strive to become better Muslims. We let go of our worldly desires to be closer to Allah. We are also cleansed from our toxins when we fast.

We got this from the article Benefits of Fasting, by Rukhsana Badr
"In Fasting and Eating for Health, Joel Fuhrman, M.D., states that an important element of fasting detoxification is mobilizing the toxins from their storage areas. He notes that superfluous tissue such as fat, abnormal cells and tumors are broken down and these toxic materials are released into the circulation for elimination."

These acts of sacrifice and self control help strengthen our mind, body, soul and Iman.

Narrated Abu Huraira(r.a): The Prophet said:"... whoever fasts during Ramadan out of sincere faith and hoping to attain Allah's rewards, then all his past sins will be forgiven." (Sahih Al-Bukhari).

"Oh you who believe! Fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you, that you many learn piety and rightousness" (Qur'an, al-Baqarah, 2:183)

There is no month in comparison to Ramadan. This is a month where you can be rid of all your past sins, a month where you can be promised paradise, and a month where you become closest to Allah. So please take full advantage of it and do anything that makes you feel like a better Muslim.


Salam and Ramadan Mubarak,
MYGA

Friday, July 30, 2010

Hadith: Importance of Sha'ban

The blessed companion Usama ibn Zaid, Radi-Allahu anhu, reports that he asked Prophet Muhammad, Sall-Allahu alayhi wa sallam: "Messenger of Allah, I have seen you fasting in the month of Sha'ban so frequently that I have never seen you fasting in any other month." Prophet Muhammad, Sall-Allahu alayhi wa sallam, replied: "That (Sha'ban) is a month between Rajab and Ramadan which is neglected by many people. And it is a month in which an account of the deeds (of human beings) is presented before the Lord of the universe, so, I wish that my deeds be presented at a time when I am in a state of fasting."

Training Season: Ramadan

Athletes train hard to win. They base their entire schedule - including sleep, meals and social life - around their training.
Getting up early mornings and forgoing get-togethers with friends and family due to the demand of their sport becomes a routine sacrifice for them. All of this stems from the burning desire to win, to succeed, to surpass. An athlete knows well that winning is not usually a matter or working hard; it is a matter of working harder. Thus every devote athlete strives to reach above and beyond the limits of his or her competitors, knowing that this extra exertion will bear fruit at the finish line.

When someone signs up to participate in a race, they know that they have to prepare well ahead of time. Let's say there is a race participant who does not practice during the training season, when asked how he expects to win the race without training and practising like other competitors, he says that when the race begins he will exert more energy and run harder than everyone else, and that is how he plans to win.
This person needs to be explained that training and practice is what enables a person to work harder at the time of the competition. To dream about running faster without training accordingly is fruitless.

Ramadan is the ultimate season of competition for beleivers - The Spiritual Olympics, if you will. The competition is global and the stakes are high. But the bar of excellence set by Islam is much higher and far more noble than the standard maintained in worldly competitions. This competition is based on attaining spiritual perfection, which is much higher an achievment than mastering the feat of jumping, throwing, or the like.

Seocndly, the aim of a Muslim is not to achieve recognition of his or her devotions in this world, but to receive acknowledgment of his or her success at the ultimate and absolute awards ceremony held on the Day of Judgment.

With such a noble event drawing near, it makes sense for all registered participants (Muslims) to start limbering up their spiritual muscles and working on the speed, endurance, and technique with which they preform their deeds.

Aisha (ra) narrates: I never saw the Prophet (pbuh) fasting more frequently in any month than the month of Sha'ban - Bukhari.

The Prophet (pbuh) - also used to pray: O Allah! Bless the months of Rajab and Sha'ban for us, and enable us to reach Ramadan.

These Prophetic actions and prayers indicate the importance of due preparation for the month of Ramadan before it arrives.
Let us start our own preperations from now by paying attention to our religious obligations. We need to assess the condition of our Salat, Zakat, recitation of Quran, dealings and behaviour. Sincere repentance for our short comings throughout the year (or throughout our lives in general), and the resolution to gain the nearness and friendship of Allah for once and for all is the minimum training required to acheive a winning position in this great event.

Let us train hard today, and be ready to compete when the time comes (Inshallah).

- Mufti Aasim Rashid (As seen in Al Ameen newspaper)

Saturday, June 19, 2010

DAS Collection

Salam

We recently found this amazing abbaya line while watching videos of Fashion week in Dubai. It's called the DAS Collection, a line started in 2008 by the Bejafla sisters, who live in the UAE

The abayas are gorgeous. Thankfully they are for sale! Each is made individually to fit your body type. The sisters take into account that the designs should not go against their religion by being too tight or revealing. Here are some pics to show you what we are talking about.

Heres the link to their website http://www.dascollection.com/










Saturday, May 29, 2010

Hadith: Religion Is Very Easy

Religion is Very Easy

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Religion is very easy, and whoever overburdens himself in his religion will not be able to continue in that way. So you should not be extremists, but try to be near to perfection and receive the good tidings that you will be rewarded.”
-- Sahih Al-Bukhari, Volume 1, Hadith 38

Friday, May 28, 2010

Halal Recipes: Summer Salad

Salam,

With summer right around the corner, people are starting to look for more fresh and light dishes for those hot days. And nothing gets better than a cool and refreshing yogurt salad to go with your meal. So we have decided to write up the recipe for you to enjoy with your family and friends :)


Ingredients:

  • Mint (handfull, chopped finely)
  • Cilantro (handfull, chopped finely)
  • Cucumbers ( small crisp cucumbers, 5, diced)
  • Tomatoes (small, hard tomatoes, 2, diced)
  • Corn (handful of defrosted corn bits)
  • Yogurt (3 tablespoons, enough to generously coat salad)
  • Green Onions (3, diced finely)
  • Broccoli (half a small head, bite size peices)
  • Dell Peppers (optional, desired amount, chopped in small peices)
  • Salt (3 tea spoons, more or less)
  • Pepper/red or black/optional
  • Lemon/a splash/ optional

Directions:

Make a salad as you usually would, coat it with yogurt, salt it, and splash some lemon on it if you wish.

Enjoy!

Friday, May 14, 2010

Square Hijab Vs. Wraparound Hijab

Salam,

As hijabi's, there are countless options as to color, fabric and even design for our scarf choices. But in General; there are only two hijab shapes, the square and the rectangle. Sometimes you can find a triangle scarf that does not need to be folded in half, or a pull on..but very few people use them and even fewer are found.

If you are unsure of which hijab type may suit your face shape best or which one is better in general for use, continue reading our pro's and con's article about square vs. rectangle hijabs.

The Square Hijab:
This hijab shape is suitable for everyone; but when it comes down to either square or rectangle, the square scarf better suits round shaped heads. This is because, when worn, the square scarf has a pointy tip at the top, elongating the face. If your face is already long in shape, this will only help exxagerate the length. And if you have a rounder,shorter, face this will help give some length. But this does not mean that people with long faces should stray from this style, because it is very simple to wear and can easily be adjusted at the top to help suit your face shape. Tucking in the corners, of the scarf, at your jaw line, will help shorten the tip at the top of your scarf and in return create a better shape for longer faces. Tying the scarf without any folds near the jaw will elongate the tip at the top, making your face seem longer, creating a better style for shorter faces. The square hijabs are very easy to wear and take virutally no time at all to put on. They are very neat, light weight and have many ways to wear them, such as the "tie back style" or the "wrap one side up style", "knot the two ends style" and even the "side bow style". The one problem with square scarfs is that if you have bangs and dont clip them back securely, they can start coming out after a while from the top and the sides, and become very irratating.

The Rectangle Hijab:
Most of the rectangle hijabs are known as pashminas and are worn in the Shayla style (wrap around). Again, anyone can wear this style, but it is preffered for people with longer faces. This is because the wrap around hugs your face nice and snug, and the cap worn underneath (to hide mini hairs), covers some of your forehead, creating an illusion that your face is a bit shorter than it actually is. If a round faced person were to wear this style, then their face would just be more shortened. But because this is a very popular style, especially for more formal outfits, to help elongate your face, you can wear the scarf without an undercap, folding the front of the scarf to curve the part that goes across your forehead and fold small creases near your jaw line to help create a pointed tip at the top of the scarf. This way, you can wear the wrap around style and still help keep it to a style that benefits your face shape. The wrap around scarf takes a bit more time to wear in general, so if you are opting for something super fast and easy, not so formal and bulky, the wrap around isn't as ideal. But, after wearing it a few times, you can get pro at it and do it faster. But I still doubt that anyone can get it on faster and neater than they can a square style.

There is no better hijab shape between rectangle and square...when it comes down to it, it all depends on your face shape. But even then, you can adjust your scarf to have it fit and suit your face shape the best it can. So anyone can wear any style, all you need to do is make sure of some things. Here is the list of those things in case you're confused:

Short/Round Face:

  • Have a bit of a tip at the top to help keep your face from looking really small
  • To do so, tuck in the corners of your scarf at the jaw line
  • Fold the front of your scarf so it is curved and easier to create a tip
  • Dont wear bulky scarfs (keeps your face from looking fat/heavy)
  • Lighter scarves are recomended

Longer/Thinner Face:

  • Fold a bit of the scarf inward towards your jawline to help decrease the pointed tip, this will help keep your face from looking too long
  • wear a hijab cap or bandana under your scarf to cover a little bit of your forehead (to give an illusion your face is a bit shorter than it really is)
  • Light scarves are okay to wear, but you can wear a bulky scarf to give some weight to your face and balance out your frame.

Saturday, May 8, 2010

Hadith Of The Week: Belief

Volume 1, Book 2, Number 12:

Narrated Anas r.a:

The Prophet (saw) said: "None of you will have faith till he wishes for his (Muslim) brother what he likes for himself."

-Sahih Bukhari

Wednesday, May 5, 2010

Top 5:Gym Class Hijabi Tips

Salam,

We know. We've been there..Gym class. If it wasnt hard enough being in public highschool, handling the summer heat and trying to keep your hijab on right..Now you have to face Phys Ed.
Of course, its easier when you are a fan of sports and constant activity, but it can get hard when you dont.

Although PE is a good course for your physical health and well being, there are some downsides to it. Here are some tips and instructions on how to help you live happily through it all :)

1) Change Rooms and Privacy
If you are a shy one, then PE change rooms arent ideal for you. Tip: change in the larger washroom stall. It has a lot of space, and a door and lock for privacy. If that is crowded or unavailable, go into the normal stalls and have your friend stand in front of you. If you are still uncomfortable, check your PE schedule, and get ready before hand. If its after lunch, change during lunch when the room is empty, if its in the morning wear your PE clothes from home and if it is at the end of the day, wear your sweats all day for a casual look during class and be ready for PE without the hassle.

2) Bad Hijab Day
Have you played football with a silk scarf? Do you sweat a lot and have your scarf stick all over your face and head? Does your hair start coming out and insisting on not going back in? Has any of your scarfs slid all over your head and even fallen off during class? If you answered yes to any of the above questions, read the following tips: Wear a wrap around scarf with a head band under. The head band keeps all your hair in place and prevents your scarf from moving all around. Stick with a cotton fabric so its durable and soaks up any perspiration. Secure it tightly with new pins so that its less likely to break or fall apart. Make sure to bring an extra change of scarf incase it gets dirty or if you dont plan on wearing that scarf before or after PE.

3) Summer Outfit Problems
During winter, PE outfits are easy to put together. A hoodie and a pair of sweatpants. But as summer begins to arrive, the weather around you signals heat and hoodies don't go well together. Heres some tips to overcome these problems: Loose and Baggy T-shirts or Long sleeve T-shirts. These are good because they allow some air to travel in and out allowing your body to breathe. Make sure you wear sleeves under short t-shirts though. Cargo sweatpants are also a great alternative to thick cotton sweatpants. They are light and airy and stand far from your body. If you want a good pair, Nike is sure to have some. As for your hijab, a 2 peiece wraparound might not be ideal so try a one peice slip on like this picture. This is actually 2 pieces, but the one im talking about is basically the same thing but in 1 piece. They are also cotton so they soak up perspiration well and dont move around, but they are light so you wont go crazy with the heat.

4) Intermixing and Square Dancing

If you thought running 5K was the worst thing that could happen in PE..Its not. Most schools have seperated girls and boys classes; and offer them even if its not regular. But some dont, that means on several occasions you'll have to have a guy partner and play the weirdest sports you've ever heard of with them (hand in hand). Or you will have a dancing course in between the semester with the guys PE class (again, hand in hand and even worse). Realistically thinking these courses dont make any sense, they dont coordinate with physical education at all, but somehow it is still in there. Tip: talk to your PE teacher about it, bring a note from home or even talk to the principal. If it doesnt go hand in hand with your religion, it shouldnt go hand in hand with you. If they insist on you taking part, dont, stand up for yourself and your religion, it is your right and with it you can never be wrong, especially legally. If you feel nervous, dont, many Muslim kids do this in every school, every semester and every year; you are not alone. You could offer to have your PE credits completed in a womens only Gym. Or you might get a project to do instead of that one lesson, on the plus side, your getting ommited an entire lesson while you chill in the library :)

5) Clean up

Phew! Class is finally over, but now im all sticky and sweaty and smelly. What do I do? Make sure you avoid these situations by having the following items in your gym bag: A Hijab for use before or after class with extra pins. Extra set of clothes for before or after class (dont wear your PE clothes to your other classes after you have PE, you can wear them before only). Keep a body spray, a deoderant and extra socks. These handy items prevent unwanted smells and keeps you dry and smelling good. Make sure you have moist towelettes in a ziploc. Use them after PE to wipe your face, neck and underarms. It instantly freshens you up, cleans perspiration and keeps you odour free. Theres nothing worse than a stinky gym class student; so keep your self odour free and super clean :)

This article may have made PE seem like a bad thing; it's not. PE is a good course to take because it keeps you fit and healthy, allows you to get fresh air and excercise in between your hectic schedule. We highly recommend you take it; we just pointed out a few of it's downsides and gave you tips on how to keep clear of them. So dont be afraid of it; now that you have the skills on how to go through PE happily; welcome it!

Friday, April 30, 2010

99 Names Of Allah


1. Allah

The One Who has the Godhood, which is the power to create the entities

2. Ar-Rahman

The One Who has an abundance of mercy for the believers and the blasphemers in this world and exclusively for the believers in the Hereafter.

3. Ar-Rahim

The One Who has an abundance of mercy for the believers.

4. Al-Malik

The One with absolute Dominion, and the One Whose Dominion is clear of imperfection.

5. Al-Quddus

The One Who is pure from any imperfection and clear of children and adversaries.

6. As-Salam

The One Who is clear of every imperfection.

7. Al-Mu'min

The One Who witnessed for Himself that no one is God but Him; and Who witnessed for His believers that they are truthful in their belief that no one is God but Him.

8. Al-Muhaymin

The One Who witnesses the saying and deeds of His creatures.

9. Al-Aziz

The Defeater Who is not defeated.

10. Al-Jabbar

The One for Whom nothing happens in His dominion except what He willed.

11. Al-Mutakabbir

The One Who is clear of the attributes of the creatures and of resembling them.

12. Al- Khaliq

The One Who brings everything from non-existence to existence.

13. Al-Bari'

The Creator Who has the Power to turn the entities from one state to another.

14. Al-Musawwir

The One Who forms His creatures in different pictures.

15. Al-Ghaffar

The One Who forgives the sins of His slaves time and time again.

16. Al-Qahhar

The Subduer Who has the perfect Power and is not powerless over anything.

17. Al-Wahhab

The One Who is Generous in giving plenty without any return.

18. Ar-Razzaq

The One Who makes the Sustenance reach His slaves. Sustenance is everything that benefits, whether halal or haram.

19. Al-Fattah

The One Who opens for His slaves the closed worldly and religious matters.

20. Al-^Alim

The Knowledgeable; the One for Whom nothing is hidden from His Knowledge.

21-22. Al-Qabid, Al-Basit

The One Who constricts the sustenance by His Wisdom and expands and widens it with His Generosity and Mercy.

23-24. Al-Khafid, Ar-Rafi^

The One Who lowers whomever He willed by His Destruction and raises whomever He willed by His Endowment.

25-26. Al-Mu^izz, Al-Mudhill

The One Who gives esteem to whomever He willed; hence there is no one to degrade him. The One Who degrades whomever He willed; hence there is no one to give him esteem.

27. As-Sami^

The One Who Hears all things that are heard by His Eternal Hearing without an ear, instrument, or organ.

28. Al-Basir

The One Who Sees all things that are seen by His eternal Sight without a pupil or any other instrument.

29. Al-Hakam

He is the Ruler, and His judgment is His Word.

30. Al-^Adl

The One Who is entitled to do what He does.

31. Al-Latif

The One Who is kind to His slaves and endows upon them.

32. Al-Khabir

The One Who knows the truth of things.

33. Al-Halim

The One Who delays the punishment for those who deserve it and then He might forgive them.

34. Al-^Adhim

The One deserving the attributes of Exaltment, Glory, Extolement, and Purity from all imperfection.

35. Al-Ghafur

The One Who forgives a lot.

36. Ash-Shakur

The One Who gives ample reward for a little obedience.

37. Al-^Aliyy

The One Who is clear of the attributes of the creatures.

38. Al-Kabir

The One Who is greater in status than everything.

39. Al-Hafidh

The One Who protects whatever and whomever He willed to protect.

40. Al-Muqit

The One Who has the Power.

41. Al-Hasib

The One Who gives the satisfaction.

42. Al-Jalil

The One Who is attributed with greatness of Power and Glory of status.

43. Al-Karim

The One Who is clear of abjectness.

44. Ar-Raqib

The One from Whom nothing is absent. Hence its meaning is related to the attribute of Knowledge.

45. Al-Mujib

The One Who answers the one in need if he asks Him and rescues the yearner if he calls upon Him.

46. Al-Wasi^

The Knowledgeable.

47. Al-Hakim

The One Who is correct in His doings.

48. Al-Wadud

The One Who loves His believing slaves and His believing slaves love Him. His love to His slaves is His Will to be merciful to them and praise them: Hence its meaning is related to the attributes of the Will and Kalam (His attribute with which He orders and forbids and with which He spoke to Muhammad and Musa. It is not a sound, nor a language, nor a letter)

49. Al-Majid

The One Who is with perfect Power, High Status, Compassion, Generosity, and Kindness.

50. Al-Ba^ith

The One Who resurrects His slaves after death for reward and/or punishment.

51. Ash-Shahid

The One from Whom nothing is absent.

52. Al-Haqq

The One Who truly exists, i.e., the One Whose Existence is confirmed.

53. Al-Wakil

The One Who gives the satisfaction and is relied upon.

54. Al-Qawiyy

The One with the complete Power.

55. Al-Matin

The One with extreme Power which is un-interrupted, and Who does not get tired.

56. Al-Waliyy

The Supporter.

57. Al-Hamid

The praised One Who deserves to be praised.

58. Al-Muhsi

The One Who knows the count of things.

59. Al-Mubdi'

The One Who started the human being, that is, He created him.

60. Al-Mu^id

The One Who brings back the creatures after death.

61. Al-Muhyi

The One Who took out a living human from seminal fluid that does not have a soul. He quickens the dead by giving the souls back to the decayed bodies on the Resurrection Day and He makes the hearts alive by the light of knowledge.

62. Al-Mumit

The One Who renders the living dead.

63. Al-Hayy

The One Who is attributed with a life that is unlike our life and is not that of a combination of soul, flesh, and blood.

64. Al-Qayyum

The One Who remains and does not end.

65. Al-Wajid

The Rich Who is never poor. Al­Wajd is Richness.

66. Al-Majid

The One Who is Majid.

67. Al-Wahid

The One without a partner.

68. As-Samad

The Master Who is relied upon in matters and is resorted to in one's needs.

69. Al-Qadir

The One Who is attributed with Power.

70. Al-Muqtadir

The One with the perfect Power from Whom nothing is withheld.

71-72. Al-Muqaddim, Al-Mu'akhkhir

The One Who puts things in their right places. He makes ahead whatever He wills and delays whatever He wills.

73. Al-'Awwal

The One whose Existence is without a beginning.

74. Al-'Akhir

The One whose Existence is without an end.

75-76. Adh-Dhahir, Al-Batin

The One above Whom nothing exists and underneath Whom nothing exists; hence He exists without a place. His Existence is obvious by proofs. He is clear of the delusions of bodily attributes.

77. Al-Wali

The One Who owns things and manages them.

78. Al-Muta^ali

The One Who is clear of the attributes of the creation.

79. Al-Barr

The One Who is kind to His creatures, Who covered them with His sustenance and specified whomever He willed among them by His support, protection, and special mercy.

80. At-Tawwab

The One Who grants repentance to whomever He willed among His creatures and accepts his repentance.

81. Al-Muntaqim

The One Who victoriously prevails over His enemies and punishes them for their sins. It may mean the One Who destroys them.

82. Al-^Afuww

The One with wide forgiveness.

83. Ar-Ra'uf

The One with extreme Mercy. The Mercy of Allah is His Will to endow upon whomever He willed among His creatures.

84. Malikul-Mulk

The One Who controls the dominion and gives dominion to whomever He willed.

85. Dhul-Jalal Wal-'Ikram

The One Who deserves to be Exalted and not denied.

86. Al-Muqsit

The One Who is Just in His judgment.

87. Al-Jami^

The One Who gathers the creatures on a day there is no doubt about, that is, the Day of Judgment.

88. Al-Ghaniyy

The One Who does not need the creation.

89. Al-Mughni

The One Who satisfies the necessities of the creatures.

90. Al-Mani^

The Supporter Who protects and gives victory to His pious believers.

91-92. Ad -Darr, An-Nafi^

The One Who makes harm reach to whomever He willed and benefit to whomever He willed.

93. An-Nur

The One Who guides.

94. Al-Hadi

The One with Whose Guidance His believers were guided, and with Whose Guidance the living beings have been guided to what is beneficial for them and protected from what is harmful to them.

95. Al-Badi^

The One Who created the creation and formed it without any preceding example.

96. Al-Baqi

The One for Whom the state of non-existence is impossible.

97. Al-Warith

The One Whose Existence remains.

98. Ar-Rashid

The One Who guides.

99. As-Sabur

The One Who does not quickly punish the sinners.

Famous Muslim Converts

Monday, April 19, 2010

Stories: Better to Give

Salam,
This is a great story we found about giving instead of taking. You will feel much better doing something good, than you will feel in hurting someone.
A young man, a student in one of the universities, was one day taking a walk with a Professor, who was commonly called the student’s friend, from his kindness to those who waited on his instructions.

As they went along,they saw lying in the path a pair of old shoes, which they supposed to belong to a poor man who was employed in a field close by,and who had nearly finished his day’s work.
The student turned to the professor, saying: “Let us play the man a trick: we will hide his shoes, and conceal ourselves behind those bushes, and wait to see his perplexity when he cannot find them.”

“My young friend,” answered the professor, “we should never amuse ourselves at the expense of the poor. But you are rich, and may give yourself a much greater pleasure by means of this poor man. Put a coin in each shoe, and then we will hide ourselves and watch how this affects him.”
The student did so and they both placed themselves behind the bushes close by. The poor man soon finished his work, and came across the field to the path where he had left his coat and shoes.

While putting on his coat he slipped his foot into one of his shoes, but feeling something hard, he stooped down to feel what it was, and found the coin. Astonishment and wonder were seen upon his countenance. He gazed upon the coin, turned it around, and looked at it again and again.
He then looked around him on all sides, but no person was to be seen. He now put the money into his pocket, and proceeded to put on the other shoe; but his surprise was doubled on finding the other coin.

His feelings overcame him; he fell upon his knees, looked up to the heavens and uttered aloud a fervent thanksgiving in which he spoke of his wife who was sick and helpless, and his children without bread, whom this timely bounty, from some unknown hand,would save from perishing.
The student stood there deeply affected, and his eyes filled with tears. “Now,” said the professor, are you not much better pleased than if you had played your intended trick?”
The youth replied, “You have taught me a lesson which I will never forget. I feel now the truth of these words, which I never understood before: “It’s more blessed to give than to receive.”
Abdullah bin Abbas (radi Allahu anhu) reported that the Prophet (sallAllahu alaiyhi wassallam) said that encouraging good, prohibiting evil, lifting the burden of the weak person and removing an offensive thing from a path are all acceptable prayers to Allah.[ibn Majah]

Halal Recipes: Rice Krispie Squares

Salam

Krispie Treats are delicious, but it's hard to find them halal regularly (halal grocery stores are exceptions). So we have decided to write up a good recipe thats fast and easy for you on how to make halal krispie treats at home.
Ingredients:

6 Cups Rice Krispies Cereal
1 Bag of Halal Marshmellows
3 Tbsp Butter

Instructions:

Melt Butter in a large saucepan, then add the marshmelleows. Stir until all of it is melted. Turn off stove. Add Rice Krispies Cereal and stir till it is fully coated. Pour onto a tray and shape into a large square. let it cool then cut it into desireable size of squares.


Ta Dah!
your done :)

Saturday, April 17, 2010

Modern Hijabi: Spring Trench

Salam,

This Spring Trenches are in, they are long, classy and beautiful. There are different trenches, sporty trench, fashion trench, business trench, casual trench.. We have made you an outfit thats classy, professional and even party wear! Its more of a gold and white look, but you can mix and match it with different colors like brown, black, red etc.


Tell us what you think :)




Saturday, April 10, 2010

Hadith: Dua Before and After Bed

Volume 9, Book 93, Number 492:

Narrated Abu Dharr:

When the Prophet went to bed at night, he used to say: "Bismika namutu wa nahya." And when he got up in the morning, he used to say, "Alhamdu lillahi al-ladhi ahyana ba'da ma amatana, wa ilaihi-n-nushur."

-Sahih Bukhari

Wednesday, April 7, 2010

Proud to be a Muslim

PROUD TO BE A MUSLIM


Im Proud to be a Muslim

Wallah I am

I don my scarf

And stay far from ham



Im Proud to be a Muslim

You know its true

When you hear me talking

Or see me making wudu



Im Proud to be Muslim

Yeap, thats right

I pray 5 times a day

Asking Allah to show me the light



Im Proud to be Muslim

You bet I am

I love my Lord

I spread Salam



Im proud to be a Muslim

Wallah I am

But I guess I can only show my true pride

Through the strength of my Iman


Saturday, April 3, 2010

Q&A: Islam and Muslims

Salam,

Welcome Q&A as the newest addition on our blog! Every week for "Question and Answer" we will pick 3 hot questions about Islam and Muslims and answer them. Feel free to send or ask any question, we'll try our best to answer it for you :)

1) Why is Arabic the Language of the Quran?

First off, we'd like to mention that in Islam no one person or kind is better than another. Sometimes people feel that because Arabic is the chosen language of the Quran that perhaps being Arab is a privilidge, but in Allahs eyes, everyone is the same. So this leaves people wondering, why is Arabic the chosen language? well, here are some reasons:

Arabic is a rich and highly developed language, it has perfect grammer and is complete and whole - in fact, it is the only language in the world with perfect grammer. Another fact worthy of pointing out is that the Middle East is located in the crossroads of the world, making it easier to spread in every direction. And because of the Middle East's vast trade business, Arabic, the Quran and Islam has spread all over the world Alhamdullilah.


2) What is Islam's biggest Miracle?

Islams biggest miracle is the Quran.

No other book in the world has been read or memorized more than the Quran...Including the Bible which was sent down way before it. You may be wondering, how is that a miracle? Well..its not, but the following facts are.

The Quran contains scientific statements which no one could have known in the time of the Prophet such as: Salt water and fresh water do not mix easily. There is a "barrier" between them - (27:61;55:19-22) another one would be The moon is reffered to as "Munir" or a light reflector, while the sun is referred to as a "Siraj" or light producer -(25:61;71:15-16; 78:12-13). These are just two of the many scientific facts noted in the Quran, others include information on how pregnancy occurs, the fact that life is made up of water, how clouds work, about the plant bodies and even outer space.

The Quran is a book of healing, power, guidance and direction. No human could have possibly written it, especially 1400 years back. And to prove this fact even more so, the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) was illiterate. He did not know how to read or write..so how could he have written such a powerful book?


3) Why do Muslim women cover themselves and wear the scarf?

This question is asked so often, but sometimes people are still confused and dont understand even after an explanation.

The "Hijab" or full body covering of a muslim women is fard meaning compulsory because it guards her modesty, protects her dignity and keeps her from becoming an object in the eyes of strange men.

Men dont wear the Hijab because they are known from the begining of time for not always being able to control their animalistic desires while women can..women have been created as more beautiful then men and their beauty is not meant for every eye to see.

When a women wears the hijab her level of class is much higher than a women who wears skimpy clothing.. people take her more seriously, people assume she is smart, professional, has the same capabilites as the man standing next to her, and is not looked at as an object. When a women who is covered is given a compliment for her work she knows it not for any other reason whereas a women who is not covered has to think twice as to what her compliment really was for.

If you still dont understand as to why Muslim women cover themselves think of this:

Two women (friends) are walking down an alley. One of the friends is fully clothed and covered while the other is wearing tight jeans and a tank top. At the end of an alley, there is a pervert. Who do you think the pervert is going to harrass? The women covered? Or the women who has tight jeans and almost nothing for a top?

Heres another scenario to consider:

You walk into a jewelry store. You see a really nice pair of earrings. There are two sets of the same earrings, one is a tester that everyone gets to try on to see if it fits or not, and the other is brand new, cased and behind the shelf. Although they are both the same set, the one behind the shelf is more expensive...which one would you prefer?

The hijab is not oppression done to a women by man..on the contrary, it liberates a woman. It makes her free to be not looked at as an object, free to voice her own opinion, and free from the societies idea of what a women should look like. Its not about hiding your self from the world.. In fact, its about being able to express more without being treated as an object or an un-equal being.

Tuesday, March 16, 2010

Modern Hijabi: Spring and Summer 2010

Salam

This spring and summer there are a lot of trends to look out for. Animal prints, vintage pieces, jeans, leather, bold colors, neutral colors, geometric shapes, floral patterns, boyfriend fit clothes, and my favorite blazers. Although the styles out there right now contradict each other, (i.e bold prints vs. neutrals), theres something out there for everyone! Not to mention a lot of the stuff is loose and baggy.

So sisters, go and take advantage A lot of the stuff you purchase now will always be in because there are so many styles to choose from.

Heres a few pics with this spring and summers in style outfits for hijabis :)

This is a casual outfit - Trends you can spot would be the leopard prints and the leather


This is a bit more fancy than the last outfit - choose your own color of hijab, pick a color that would bring out the flowers on the skirt..like a deep purple. Trends you can spot here are vintage floral patters, leather and the blazer

This outfit is very chic. It can be casual or fancy, depends on the way you dress it up. Trends you can spot here is the blazer, layered top, ankle boots, vintage clutch bag and even the armor ring :)