Abd al-Wahhab al-Sha’rani and His al-Minan al-Kubra

Al-Minan al-Kubra is a fascinating text that can almost be placed in a genre of its own. Not only is the book bursting with beneficial advice and specific examples of the manifestations of various virtues, but it is also a glimpse into al-Sha’rani’s own life. From the beginning he speaks of his own lineage, and throughout the text he mentions countless occurrences in his own life and the lives of his teachers, companions, and students. Continue reading Abd al-Wahhab al-Sha’rani and His al-Minan al-Kubra

Gott ist keine Bank

Einer der Fallstricke der gegenwärtigen Religiosität ist ein Missverständnis gegenüber Gottes Beziehung zu den Menschen. Unser Verständnis von Gott ist wesentlich dafür, wie wir mit religiösen Verpflichtungen und dem Leben im Allgemeinen umgehen. Gott als einen gleichgültigen „Uhrenmacher“ zu verstehen, der sich nicht für unser tägliches Leben interessiert, führt zu Apathie gegenüber der Frage, ob er überhaupt Gebote aufgestellt hat, denen die Menschen folgen sollten, … Continue reading Gott ist keine Bank

Al-Sha’rawi and the Neglect of Judgment Day

It is clear from the words of al-Sha’rawi that discussion and observance of the signs of Judgement Day are an essential component of a healthy Muslim consciousness. Most Muslims who have made a slight effort to learn a thing or two about their religion have heard the narration known as Hadith Jibril, wherein the Messenger of Allah ﷺ dedicates a significant portion of his moments in a physical sit-down with the Messenger-Angel to emphasize the importance of knowing the signs of Judgment Day’s approach.  Continue reading Al-Sha’rawi and the Neglect of Judgment Day

An Introduction to Postmodernism and its Implications

One of the most convoluted paradigms of thought to emerge throughout recorded intellectual history is postmodernism. Postmodernists themselves take pride in Jacques Derrida’s elusive and difficult writing style, presenting it as a protest against elitist standardization of writing. [1] Derrida is considered the founding father of deconstructionist philosophy and one of the main figureheads of postmodernism. A French Jew born and raised in Algeria, his … Continue reading An Introduction to Postmodernism and its Implications