By definition, a Nikkah is an Islamic contract between two people consenting to marriage. Growing up in the fast-paced world of America, I realized that there are many difficulties when coming to terms with practicing Islam and trying to “fit in” with the crowd. Having a boyfriend, going out on dates, and having your first…
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Is Dr. Oz a ‘Pick Me’ Muslim?
Dr. Oz, known for his popular television show, recently ran as a Republican in the U.S. Senate. (Spoiler alert: He lost.) His campaign received much attention from the Muslim and non-Muslim communities, with some excited about his nomination, and others wary of his intentions. What made Dr. Oz’s campaign so important was that if he…
As a Child, the Quranic Education System Made Me Feel Like a Bad Muslim
7-hour detentions. Documented abuse in madrasahs. After school sessions and no homework completed. Learning the Quran as a child can be challenging for so many reasons. To be frank, one main reason is the pedagogy. As Yasmin Mogahed once mentioned in a lecture, “We teach our kids what to fear. This is halal and this…
10 Instaworthy Mosques to Visit in Malaysia
It was over 1400 years ago when mosques were established as a place of congregation for Muslims. It is a center for Muslims to practice their acts of worship, engage in intellectual and theological discussions, and a sanctuary to foster spiritual growth in the community. Mosques were built with simplicity, especially during the times of…
Why We Need Women Leaders
There is a story in the Quran that I find very liberating. The Quran tells us about a time when Abraham, peace be upon him (PBUH) asked, “Lord, show me how You revive the dead. Lord replied, “Have you not believed?” to which Abraham said, “Yes, but to reassure my heart.” The Quran tells us…
4 Stylist-Approved Modest Winter Essentials
We spoke to Forough Piroozi, a certified stylist and fashion designer, for some fashion recommendations this winter season and we’re here to spill the tea!
5 Things to Know About Women’s Rights In Islam
“Do women in Islam have any rights?” This is a question lingering in the minds of many people around the world. We cannot blame them entirely as the modern media often portrays Muslim women as controlled and dependent people, restricted from showing their faces in public. Is it true that Islam demands to kill girls…
3 Muslim Girls Share Their Thoughts About Halloween
Carved pumpkins, dark evenings, and horror movies — it’s officially Halloween! For many people, Halloween is just another excuse to dress up and have a good time but for others, it’s avoided at all costs for religious reasons. Inspired by the ancient Celtic festival ‘Samhain’, Halloween dates back 2,000 years ago. The Celts mostly lived…
Islam Honors Daughters & Gives Them Special Status
A true Muslim’s life is full of virtues. Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala creates several ways for us to do good deeds and get a reward. Even a husband spends on his family from his halal earning is considered as a reward for him. Abu Mas’ud reported Allah’s Messenger (صَلَّى ٱللّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ) as saying: إِنَّ…
How Beauty and Sexuality Are Conflated in Muslim Arab-American Culture
The present scholarship of sexuality in Muslim Arab-American (MAA) culture is minimal and even more is the conversation of sexuality. I want to reintroduce this discussion with a focus on beauty, as I believe beauty is a major contributor to how we currently define and express our sexuality. For this reason, I redact my previous…
On Growing Up Indian Muslim
I grew up with my heritage meticulously arranged in a crystal snow globe Hum Saath Saath Hain and a warm bowl of Haleem alike Surrounded by endless fields of mango trees Framed by the piercing of a macague-filled mountain That gives way to carelessly paved roads of intricately adorned lorries and fresh street-side nariyals The…
What Is Eid? Here’s Everything You Need To Know About The Muslim Holiday.
This article was published on Muslim on 5/24/2020, and has been republished with permission of Muslim. Whether you are Muslim or not, the celebration of Eid-al-Fitr is acknowledged around the world by many of all faiths. Eid is a time for blessings and joys throughout the Muslim community, but because it is a day of charity,…
Why the Media Still Has a Long Way to Go to Get Representation Right
The year is 2020, and although changes are happening, why are they happening so slowly? When you watch a show or a movie, listen to music or view fashion, what is one thing that you notice? There are few people of different cultures, races, religions, and sizes. I am just one of the many Muslim…
This Ramadan, I Prayed for the First Time in Two Years
Author’s note: This personal essay is based on my own experiences. This is not me preaching from a soapbox. Instead, this is my attempt to muddle through some incredibly complex feelings and experiences. Perhaps along the way, I’ll be able to offer a relatable moment to anyone who may share my experiences. Three days ago,…
Why South Asian Cultures Need to Embrace Public Displays of Affection
Did the title intrigue you enough to read further? Let’s talk about one of the scenarios which might be familiar if you come from a South Asian background. It is very common in departure lounges of airports while families are seeing their loved ones off that there’s an emotional exchange of hugs and goodbyes that…