Liberal Arts Forum

Contemporary Styles in Islamic Art by Faraz Khan
The images display a collage of classical Arabic script intertwined with bright color scheme and modern, single stroke curvilinear approach.

Support for Toxics Reform – Islamic View:

By Faraz Khan

Islam requires an ethical life with consideration for others. God is the Giver and Sustainer of all goods. The Quran declares, “He provides for you all that you ask for. But if you count the favors of God, never will you be able to number them” (14:34). An individual is obliged to God and fellow human beings to live a righteous life. The Quran confirms “God does command you to render back your trusts to those to whom they are due. When you judge between two people, deal with justice. Verily, how excellent is the teaching which He gives you (4:58).

Humans are seen as being created “in the best of forms” (95:4) and honored by God as His vicegerent or stewards on this planet. However, this honor is attributed with a great responsibility and accountability to God. Any action away from the right path can be a cause for oppression. Thus, Quran declares that “whoever does an atom’s weight of good shall see it and whoever does an atom’s weight of evil shall see it” (99:7-8). The verse confirms the importance of moral obligation.

Social justice is central to Islamic teachings. Prophet Muhammad once declared, “Help your brother whether he is an oppressor or he is an oppressed one”. People asked, “O Messenger of God, We understand that an oppressed person should be helped but how can we help the oppressor?” The Prophet Muhammad replied “By preventing the oppressor from committing acts of injustice” (Sahih Bukhari 45:4). The Quran calls people to task by reminding them they should deal with others with care and humility as God has been good to them. It is a call to help alleviate pain and sufferings especially of the downtrodden and poor who are marginalized in their own society. It is a call to seek God by helping one’s brother, “do not forget your portion in this world but do good as God has been good to you and seek not mischief in the land. God does not love those who do mischief” (28:77). Thus according to the teachings of Islam, environmental justice and social equity is a sacred act that needs our immediate and utmost attention.

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Madagascar bird declared EXTINCT
Last seen 25 years ago, alaotra grebe.

It has been reported that introduction of non-native fish species and nylon nets led to the extinction of a water bird in Madagascar.

“Obviously the suspicion that it has disappeared has been there for some time,” said Martin Fowlie, a spokesman for BirdLife, compiler of the “Red List” of threatened bird species.

99 Names of Allah by Faraz Khan

Audio: Planting Figs & Olives in this Land (((audio))) 14 min.
By Faraz Khan

Lawrenceville, NJ – A talk on tafsir of Surah al-Teen.

5 Axioms of a Beautiful Conversation – (((audio)))- Darul Islah Khutba, Teaneck, NJ By Faraz Khan.

1. Think of others as Partners

2. Listen Attentively

3. KISS – Keep it Short & Sweet

4. Think Before You Speak

5. Lose an Argument but don’t lose a Friend