Monday, November 7, 2011
Sunday, November 6, 2011
Eid-Ul-Adha (a.k.a. the Feast of Sacrifice or Day of Sacrifice) is observed after the Hajj -- the annual pilgrimage to Makkah (Mecca) in Saudi Arabia.
A duty of each Muslim, as described in the Five Pillars of Islam, is to go on Hajj at least once once during their lifetime, unless they are prevented by finances or ill health. "The Hajj consists of several ceremonies, meant to symbolize the essential concepts of the Islamic faith, and to commemorate the trials of prophet Abraham and his family...The pilgrimage also enables Muslims from all around the world, of different colors, languages, races, and ethnicities, to come together in a spirit of universal brotherhood and sisterhood to worship the One God together."
Eid-Ul-Adha is observed after the conclusion of the Hajj. The first day of this celebration is held on the 10th day of Duhl-Hijja, which is the last month of the Muslim year. In most areas, the Feast of Sacrifice is celebrated over several days. 2
Islamic months begin at sunset on the day when the lunar crescent appears after the new moon, and can be sighted by the unaided eye . "Visibility depends on a large number of factors including weather condition, the altitude of the moon at sunset, the closeness of the moon to the sun at sunset, the interval between sunset and moonset, atmospheric pollution, the quality of the eyesight of the observer, use of optical aids etc." 3 As a result, although the phases of the moon can be predicted accurately, the moon's visibility at a given place on Earth cannot be estimated in advance. Thus, the feast day has always been celebrated on different days in various areas of the world.
| Year | Id al-Adha |
| 1417 H | 1997-APR-17 |
| 1418 | 1998-APR-07 |
| 1419 | 1999-MAR-28 |
| 1420 | 2000-MAR-16 |
| 1421 | 2001-MAR-05 |
| 1422 | 2002-FEB-22 |
| 1423 | 2003-FEB-11 |
| 1424 | 2004-FEB-01 |
| 1425 | 2005-JAN-21 |
| 1426 | 2006-JAN-10 |
| 1427 | 2006-DEC-31 |
| 1428 | 2007-DEC-20 |
| 1429 | 2008-DEC-08 |
| 1430 | 2009-NOV-28 |
| 1431 | 2010-NOV-17 |
| 1432 | 2011-NOV-07 |
"The celebration of Eid-Ul-Adha is in commemoration of the command give by Allah to Prophet Abraham (may Allah be pleased with him) to sacrifice his first born son Ishmael to Him. The fulfilment [sic] of this noble command of Allah by Abraham signifies his faith in Allah...."
According to the website TheEid.com:
"Eid-Ul-Adha is a day of remembrance. Even in the most joyful times, the Muslim makes a fresh start of the day by a session of congregational prayers to Allah in an open space. Muslims use the occasion to pray to Allah and to glorify His name to demonstrate the remembrance of His grace and favours. Muslims also remember the deceased by praying for their souls to rest in peace. The needy and vulnerable in society are also remembered by showing them sympathy and consolation." 4Muslims around the world celebrate
"this feast of commitment, obedience and self-sacrifice to Allah. They wear their nicest clothing and attend Salatul-Eid (Eid Prayer) in the morning. This is followed by a short sermon, after which everyone socializes. Next, people visit each other's homes and partake in festive meals with special dishes, beverages, and desserts. Children receive gifts and sweets on this happy occasion. In addition, like the pilgrims in Makkah (Mecca), the Muslims, who can afford to do so, offer domestic animals, usually sheep, as a symbol of Ibrahim's sacrifice." 4,5Some of the meat is given to the poor -- often one third. The rest is shared among the family, relatives and friends.
In addition, Eid-Ul-Adha is a time when Muslims pray for forgiveness from God and strength of faith. They, in turn, forgive others, releasing any feelings of enmity or ill feeling towards others. 2 Many Muslims exchange greeting cards at this time.
Saturday, October 29, 2011
സഞ്ജീവ് ഭട്ട് പ്രകടിപ്പിക്കുന്ന ധൈര്യം
| ഗുജറാത്ത് മുഖ്യമന്ത്രി നരേന്ദ്രമോഡിയെ പ്രശംസിക്കാന് നിഷ്പക്ഷമതികളെന്നു നടിക്കുന്ന ചിലര് തുടര്ച്ചയായ ശ്രമങ്ങള് നടത്തിക്കൊണ്ടിരിക്കുന്നതിനിടെയാണ്, ആ സംസ്ഥാനത്തെ മുതിര്ന്ന എെ.പി.എസ് ഉദ്യോഗസ്ഥനായ സഞ്ജീവ് ഭട്ട് വാര്ത്തകളില് നിറയുന്നത്. ഗുജറാത്ത് വംശഹത്യയുമായി ബന്ധപ്പെട്ട് നരേന്ദ്രമോഡിക്കെതിരെ മൊഴി നല്കിയതോടെയാണ് സഞ്ജീവ് ഭട്ട് ദേശീയ ശ്രദ്ധയാകര്ഷിക്കുന്നത്. ഇതഃപര്യന്തമുള്ള സര്വീസ് ജീവിതം കൊണ്ട്, നീതിബോധമുള്ള ഉദ്യോഗസ്ഥനാണെന്ന് സഞ്ജീവ് ഭട്ട് തെളിയിച്ചിട്ടുണ്ട്. ഗുജറാത്തില് മുസ്ലിംകളെ കൂട്ടക്കുരുതി നടത്തിക്കൊണ്ടിരിക്കുന്നതിനിടെ, 2002 ഫെബ്രുവരി 27ന് ഉന്നതോദ്യോഗസ്ഥരുടെ യോഗം വിളിച്ചുചേര്ത്ത മുഖ്യമന്ത്രിയായിരുന്ന നരേന്ദ്രമോഡി ഹിന്ദുക്കളെ പ്രതികാരം ചെയ്യാന് അനുവദിക്കണമെന്ന് ആവശ്യപ്പെട്ടുവെന്നാണ് സഞ്ജീവ് ഭട്ട്. സുപ്രീം കോടതിയെ ധരിപ്പിച്ചത്. ഇതിനു ശേഷം ക്രൂരമായ അവഗണനയും അധിക്ഷേപവും നേരിടേണ്ടി വന്നു. സഞ്ജീവ് ഭട്ടിന് പ്രധാന സ്ഥാനങ്ങളൊന്നും അദ്ദേഹത്തിന് നല്കിയില്ല. ഇതിനെല്ലാം ഒടുവിലാണ് ഒരു കള്ളപ്പരാതിയുണ്ടാക്കി ഭട്ടിനെ ജയിലിലടക്കുക എന്ന സാഹസത്തിനൊരുമ്പെടാന്പോലും മോഡി തയാറായത്. 17 ദിവസത്തെ ജയില്വാസത്തിനു ശേഷമാണ് സത്യസന്ധമായ ഈ മുതിര്ന്ന എെ.പി.എസ് ഉദ്യോഗസ്ഥന് ജാമ്യം ലഭിച്ച് കോടതിക്ക് പുറത്തുവരുന്നത്. ഭട്ടിനെതിരെ ചുമത്തിയ ജാമ്യമില്ലാക്കുറ്റങ്ങളെല്ലാം അസാധുവാക്കിക്കൊണ്ടാണ് കോടതി ജാമ്യം നല്കിയത്. അത്രയും ആശ്വാസം. അന്വേണവുമായി സഹകരിക്കണമെന്നും ആവശ്യപ്പെടുമ്പോള് ഹാജരാകണമെന്നുമുള്ള ഉപാധിയോടെയാണ് സെഷന്സ് ജഡ്ജി വി.കെ വ്യാസ്, ഭട്ടിന് ജാമ്യം നല്കിയത്. പൊലീസ് കോണ്സ്റ്റബിള് കെ.ഡി പാന്ത് ഫയല് ചെയ്ത എഫ്.എെ.ആറിനെ തുടര്ന്ന് ഇക്കഴിഞ്ഞ സപ്തംബര് 30നാണ് ഭട്ടിനെ അറസ്റ്റ് ചെയ്ത് ജയിലിലടച്ചത്. സുപ്രീം കോടതിയില് തന്നെയാണ് ഭരണഘടനയുടെ അന്തഃസത്ത പരിപൂര്ണമായും ഉള്ക്കൊണ്ട് പ്രവര്ത്തിച്ചു എന്നതിന്റെ തെളിവാണ് സഞ്ജീവ് ഭട്ട് എന്ന സര്ക്കാറുദ്യോഗസ്ഥന്റെ മഹത്വമായി ഇത് ചൂണ്ടിക്കാട്ടാം. അനുകരണീയ മാതൃക സൃഷ്ടിച്ച സഞ്ജീവ് ഭട്ടിന് പിന്നില് ഗുജറാത്തിലെ എെ.പി.എസ് ഓഫീസേഴ്സ് അസോസിയേഷനും ഭട്ടിന്റെ വിപുലമായ ബന്ധുസുഹൃദ് വലയവും ഉറച്ചുനിന്നുവെന്നതും അഭിനന്ദനാര്ഹമാണ്. നീതിക്കു വേണ്ടിയുള്ള പോരാട്ടം തുടരുമെന്ന് ജാമ്യം നേടി പുറത്തു വന്നയുടന് ഭട്ട് പ്രസ്താവിച്ചു കഴിഞ്ഞിട്ടുണ്ട്. തന്നേക്കാള് വലുതാണ് താനുയര്ത്തിയ നീതിക്കു വേണ്ടിയുള്ള സമരമെന്ന ഭട്ടിന്റെ പ്രസ്താവം ഇനിയെങ്കിലും മോഡിയെപ്പോലുള്ളവരുടെ മനസു മാറ്റാന് പര്യാപ്തമാവട്ടെയെന്ന് പ്രത്യാശിക്കാനേ കഴിയൂ. ആയിരങ്ങളുടെ ചോരവീണപ്പോഴും തന്നിലര്പ്പിതമായ ചുമതലകള് നിര്വഹിക്കാതെ അഭിനവ നീറോമാരെപ്പോലെ പെരുമാറിയവര്ക്ക് എത്രയും വേഗം ശിക്ഷ ലഭിച്ചാലെ ഭട്ടിനെപ്പോലുള്ളവരുടെ പ്രസക്തി വര്ദ്ധിക്കൂ. രാജ്യത്തെ നീതിപീഠങ്ങളില് നിന്ന് ഗുജറാത്ത് കലാപവുമായി ബന്ധപ്പെട്ട് അടിക്കടി വന്നുകൊണ്ടിരിക്കുന്ന നിരീക്ഷണങ്ങള് നീതി വൈകില്ലെന്ന സൂചനയാണ് നല്കുന്നത്. ഇതിനിടയിലാണ് ഭട്ടിനെപ്പോലെയൊരു ഉദ്യോഗസ്ഥന് 17 ദിവസം തടവില് കഴിയേണ്ടിവന്നത്. ഇത്തരം സംഭവങ്ങള് ഇനിയൊരിക്കലും നമ്മുടെ നാട്ടില് ആവര്ത്തിക്കപ്പെടരുത്. നീതി ശരിയുടെ പക്ഷത്താവുമെന്ന ജനാധിപത്യവിശ്വാസികളുടെ പ്രതീക്ഷക്ക് കോട്ടം തട്ടരുത്. അറസ്റ്റിലായി നാലാം ദിവസം ജാമ്യാപേക്ഷ നല്കിയെങ്കിലും ഗുജറാത്ത് സര്ക്കാറിന്റെ കഠിനമായ എതിര്പ്പുകാരണം അനുവദിക്കപ്പെട്ടില്ല. എന്താണ് ഇത്തരം സംഭവങ്ങളില് നിന്ന് മനസ്സിലാക്കേണ്ടത്? ഗുജറാത്തിനെ ഒരു സ്വകാര്യ ഭുപ്രദേശമാക്കി മാറ്റി അവിടുത്തെ നിയമവും നീതിയും നീതിനിര്വഹണവുമൊക്കെ മോഡിയെന്ന അഭിനവ നീറോ സ്വയം നിശ്ചയിക്കുമെന്നാണോ? അങ്ങനെയെങ്കില് അതവസാനിപ്പിക്കാനുള്ള സമയം അതിക്രമിച്ചിരിക്കുന്നു. മുതിര്ന്ന ഒരു എെ.പി.എസ്. ഉദ്യോഗസ്ഥന്റെ അവസ്ഥ ഇതാണെങ്കില് സാധാരണക്കാര്ക്ക് എത്ര "സംശുദ്ധമായ' നീതിയായിരിക്കും മോഡി നല്കുക എന്ന് ചിന്തിക്കാന് പോലുമാകില്ല. അടുത്ത പ്രധാനമന്ത്രി സ്ഥാനാര്ത്ഥിയാവാന് പാര്ട്ടിയില് അഡ്വാനിയുമായി മത്സരിച്ചു കൊണ്ടേയിരിക്കുന്ന മോഡി, പ്രതിച്ഛായ നന്നാക്കാനുള്ള തരികിട പബ്ലിക് റിലേഷന് പരിപാടികളും ഇപ്പോള് നടത്തിക്കൊണ്ടിരിക്കുന്നുണ്ട്. മോഡിയുടെയും സില്ബന്തികളുടെയും തനിനിറം പതിയെയാണെങ്കിലും പൂര്ണമായി രാജ്യം മനസ്സിലാക്കിക്കൊണ്ടിരിക്കുകയാണ്. അത് മാത്രമാണ് ആശ്വാസത്തിന് വക നല്കുന്നത്. സഞ്ജീവ് ഭട്ടിനെപ്പോലുള്ള മാതൃകകള് മോഡിയുടെ തേര്വാഴ്ചക്കിടയിലുംനിരന്തരം ആവര്ത്തിക്കുന്നുവെന്നതാണ് ജനാധിപത്യ ഇന്ത്യയുടെ ഭാഗ്യം. ഒന്നു വഴങ്ങാന് തയ്യാറായിരുന്നെങ്കില് ഗുജറാത്തിലെ ഏതു സിംഹാസനവും സഞ്ജീവ് ഭട്ടിന് മോഡി നല്കുമായിരുന്നു. ഇരിക്കാന് ആവശ്യപ്പെട്ടാല് അതിലേറെ വഴങ്ങാന് തല്പരരായവര് ഏറെയുള്ള ഇന്നാട്ടില് നട്ടെല്ലു നിവര്ത്തിപ്പിടിക്കാന് ഒരു ആണ്കുട്ടിയുണ്ടായത് നമ്മുടെ നാടിന്റെ പുണ്യമാണ്. |
|
| കൃഷ്ണയ്യര് സമിതി പ്രോത്സാഹിപ്പിക്കുന്ന ഭ്രൂണഹത്യ | ||
|
| വി.എസിനും ഗണേഷ് കുമാറിനും രണ്ടു നീതി | ||
|
1. ലിബിയയില് കറണ്ട് ബില്ലില്ല .. എല്ലാ പൌരന്മാര്ക്കും വൈദ്യുതി സൌജന്യമാണ്
2. ലിബിയന് ബാങ്കുകളില് ലോണിന് പലിശയില്ല.. ലിബിയയിലെ എല്ലാ ബാങ്കുകളും സര്ക്കാര് അധീനതയിലാണ് .. ഒരു പൌരന് പോലും പലിശയടക്കേണ്ടതില്ല
... 3. വീട് ലിബിയില് ഓരോ പൌരന്റേയും പരമമായ അധികാരമായി കണക്കാക്കപ്പെടുന്നു .. ഓരോ പൌരനും സ്വന്തമായി വീടൂണ്ടായതിനു ശേഷമേ സ്വന്തം കുടുമ്പവും ഒരു വീട്ടില് താമസിക്കുള്ളൂ എന്ന തീരുമാനമായിരുന്നു ഗദ്ദാഫിയുടേത് .. ഈ തീരുമാനത്താല് ഗദ്ദാഫിയുടെ അച്ഛനും അമ്മയും മരിച്ചത് ഒരു ടെന്റില് കിടന്നാണ്
4. പുതുതായി വിവാഹം കഴിഞ്ഞവര്ക്ക് ലിബിയന് സര്ക്കാര് 60000 ലിബിയന് ദിനാര് അതായത് 50000 യു എസ് ഡോളര് നല്കും .. സ്വന്തമായി ഒരു വീട്ടില് ദാമ്പത്യം തുടങ്ങാന് വേണ്ടിയാണിത്
5. ലിബിയയില് എല്ലാ പൌരന്മാര്ക്കും വിദ്യാഭ്യാസവും ചികിത്സാ ചിലവും സൌജന്യമാണ് .. ഗദ്ദാഫിക്ക് മുന്പ് 25 ശതമാനം മാത്രമായിരുന്ന രാജ്യത്തിലെ സാക്ഷരതാ നിരക്ക് ഇന്ന് 83 ശതമാനമാണ് .
6. ഒരു ലിബിയന് പൌരന് കൃഷി തൊഴിലായി സ്വീകരിക്കാന് ആഗ്രഹമുണ്ടെങ്കില് .. സര്ക്കാര് അവന് കൃഷിഭൂമിയും കൃഷിക്കാവശ്യമായ പണിയായുധങ്ങളും , വിത്തും എന്ന് വേണ്ട കൃഷി തുടങ്ങാനാവശ്യമായ തുകയും നല്കുന്നു ...
7. ലിബിയന് പൌരന് വിദേശത്ത് പോയി പഠിക്കണമെങ്കില് ... അതിനാവശ്യമായുള്ള എല്ലാ സാമ്പത്തിക സഹായവും സര്ക്കാര് സൌജന്യമായി ചെയ്തു കൊടുക്കുന്നതിനു പുറമേ ലിബിയന് പൌരന് 2300 യു എസ് ഡോളര് ഗാര്ഹിക അലവന്സും വാഹന അലവന്സും സര്ക്കാര് കൊടുക്കുന്നു
8.ഒരു ലിബിയന് പൌരന് സ്വന്തമായി വാഹനം നല്കുമ്പോള് സര്ക്കാര് വാഹന വിലയുടെ അന്പത് ശതമാനം സബ്സിഡി കൊടുക്കുന്നു ...
9. ലിബിയയിലെ പെട്ട്രോള് വില 0.14 യു എസ് ഡോളറാണ്
10. ലിബിയക്ക് ഒരു തുക പോലും കടബാധ്യതയില്ലെന്ന് മാത്രമല്ല .. സാമ്പത്തിക കരുതലായി യു എസ് ഡോളര് 150 ബില്ല്യണുമുണ്ട് .. ഇന്നീ പണം മരവിപ്പിച്ചിരിക്കുകയാണ് .
11. ബിരുദധാരിയായ ഒരു ലിബിയന് പൌരന് ജോലി ലഭിക്കുന്നത് വരെ ലിബിയന് സര്ക്കാരില് നിന്ന് നിശ്ചിത തുക ശമ്പളമായി വാങ്ങാന് അര്ഹനാണ്
12.ലിബിയന് ക്രൂഡൊയില് വിറ്റ് ലഭിക്കുന്ന തുകയുടെ ഒരു ഭാഗം എല്ലാ ലിബിയന് പൌരന്മാരുടെയും ബാങ്ക് എക്കൌണ്ടിലേക്ക് കൃത്യമായി വിഭജിച്ച് സര്ക്കാര് ട്രാന്സ്ഫര് ചെയ്യുന്നു...
13. ഒരു സ്ത്രീ അമ്മയായാ ലിബിയന് സര്ക്കാര് അവര്ക്ക് $5,000 നല്കുന്നു
15. 25 % ലിബിയന് പൌരന്മാരും ബിരുദധാരികളാണ്
16. ലോകത്തിലെ ഏറ്റവും വലിയ ജലപദ്ധതി ലിബിയന് ഗവണ്മെന്റിന്റേതാണ് .. ലോകത്തിലെ ഏറ്റവും വലിയ മനുഷ്യ നിര്മ്മിത നദി പണീത് കൊണ്ടാണ് മരുഭൂ പ്രദേശമായ ലിബിയില് ഗദ്ദാഫി ജലമെത്തിച്ചത്
ഇനി പറയൂ ഗദ്ദാഫി ഇത്തരമൊരു മരണം അര്ഹിച്ചിരുന്നോ .. ഗദ്ദാഫി മരിക്കേണ്ടത് ആരുടെ ആവശ്യമായിരുന്നു .. ലിബിയന് ജനതയുടേയോ അതോ മറ്റു പലരുടെയുമോ ..
Sunday, October 23, 2011
islamic3
| Beneficial Foods Mentioned in the Qur'an One who thinks deeply upon the Qur'an's verses will realize that Allah has provided all sorts of explanations in His Book and shown people several ways to make life easy in both this world and the next world. Another subject that attracts the attention of people of understanding is the Qur'an's mentioning of specific foods that are good for human health. FRUITS The Qur'an mentions several fruits that modern science has shown to have a preventive effect on several diseases. Fruits, which benefit the human body in many ways, also taste very good. In the Qur'an, Allah draws attention to their diversity and beauty and calls people to ponder upon their miraculous creation: He sends down water from the sky from which We bring forth growth of every kind, and from that We bring forth the green shoots and from them We bring forth close-packed seeds, and, from the spathes of the date-palm, date clusters hanging down, and gardens of grapes and olives and pomegranates, both similar and dissimilar. Look at their fruits as they bear fruit and ripen. There are signs in that for people who believe. (Surat al-An'am: 99) Allah creates various kinds of fruit, each of which have a different taste and smell although they grow in the same soil and are watered with the same water. As well as their creation, the fact that fruits and vegetables are great sources of vitamins and essential nutrients also leads people to think. Fruits, which grow in black mud extract from the soil only those essential nutrients (minerals) that are beneficial to human health. But how could the soil know what nutrients to provide? Similarly, could the fruit have the ability and intelligence to break down the soil into its component parts in order to absorb from it the exact amount of what it needs? However, this system operates in such a perfect order that every plant species has a specific and unique color, taste, and smell and contains a fixed amount of minerals and vitamins. For instance, a watermelon is never blue or sour, nor does it smell like soil instead of the special and unique smell that we associate with it. Allah, the sole owner and governor of the universe, created this order and displayed it to humanity so that people can reflect upon it and thank Him. The Qur'an mentions so many kinds of fruit, which will be available for believers in Paradise. In this section, we will briefly discuss their benefits of the fruits that are referred to in the Qur'an. BANANAS Bananas are also mentioned in the Qur'an as one of the fruits of Paradise: Amid thornless lote-trees, and banana-trees (with fruits), one above another. And extended shade, and water flowing constantly, and abundant fruit, neither intercepted nor forbidden. (Surat al-Waqi'a: 28-33) As with all other blessings, the bananas enjoyed by believers in Paradise will be far more perfect than any bananas we can imagine in this world. After all, the bananas will never become rotten and will have a taste and smell that we cannot now imagine. However, in this world too, Allah has created a fruit very similar to that of Paradise and has placed it at our disposal. Bananas, a very nutritive fruit, consists of water (75%), protein (1.3%), and fats (0.6%). Each banana also contains carbohydrates and a considerable amount of potassium. Besides helping to cure many diseases, bananas are especially recommended for fever, digestive system disorders, cramps, and muscle slackness. The vast amount of potassium that it contains (0,24%) facilitates the excretion of waste products from the body.15 Bananas decrease blood pressure and are used to treat allergies. Their potassium functions together with sodium, promotes cell and muscle development, and regulates the body's water equilibrium and heartbeat. Any change in the sodium-potassium balance causes various disorders in the nervous and muscular systems. This is why a person must maintain his or her body's potassium equilibrium. Besides, since a potassium deficiency leads to edema and decreases the amount of sugar circulating in the blood, it is essential to maintain this balance.16 Bananas, which are rich in vitamin B6, also play a significant role in triggering the chemical reactions of proteins and amino acids, and are instrumental in keeping the brain's functioning normal. They promote red cell production, keep the chemical balance among bodily fluids, help energy production, and provide endurance against stress. Their carbohydrates function as helper enzymes in the metabolic processing of fats and proteins. In addition, bananas cure anemic diseases (a deficiency in the number of red blood cells or in their hemoglobin content), are instrumental in developing cells and muscles, maintain the body's liquid balance, and cure heart diseases. On the other hand, a deficiency in one's vitamin B6 may result in fatigue, affect one's ability to concentrate, and result in irritability, insomnia, anemia, kidney calculi, skin diseases, and so on.17 The Creator of mankind has created this beneficial fruit and drawn our attention to its benefits. Allah states that He has given people everything that they desire and need, and has warned them not to be among the ungrateful: He has given you everything you have asked Him for. If you tried to number Allah's blessings, you could never count them. Man is indeed wrongdoing, ungrateful. (Surat Ibrahim: 34) GRAPES By means of it We produce gardens of dates and grapes for you, in which there are many fruits for you and from which you eat. (Surat al-Mu'minun: 19) Grapes, which are highly nutritive and rich in vitamins and metallic substances, are an important food. About 20-25% of their content is sugar, which quickly enters the bloodstream. Therefore it is good for those who make physical and mental efforts, for it removes physical and mental weariness and fights anemia. The plentiful amount of iron and sugar contained within each grape also fosters blood production and acts as a natural medicine for liver, kidney, and digestive system diseases. They stimulate the kidneys and help them excrete such waste matters as urea. By discharging the body's excess water, grapes lower high blood pressure.18 Patients with stomach ulcers, gastritis, joint inflammations, small intestines inflammation, rheumatism, tumid liver or spleen, as well as those who have been poisoned, are recommended to drink grape juice.19 Grapes also strengthen the heart's muscles, are instrumental in treating bronchitis and coughing, and enhance the skin's beauty by purifying the blood.20 Since it increases the secretion of milk, nursing mothers are advised to drink grape juice. Some chemicals found in grapes even decrease the probability of skin cancer.21 POMEGRANATES He produces gardens, both cultivated and wild, and palm-trees and crops of diverse kinds, and olives and pomegranates, both similar and dissimilar. Eat of their fruits when they bear fruit, pay their due on the day of their harvest, and do not be profligate. He does not love the profligate. (Surat al-An'am: 141) Pomegranates, another fruit mentioned in the Qur'an, contain a plentiful supply of potassium as well as such minerals as phosphorus, calcium, iron, and sodium, and vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, and C. Acting together with sodium, potassium regulates the body's water equilibrium and ensures that the heart beats normally. By maintaining the body's potassium-sodium balance, it also helps the nervous and muscular senses to function regularly, prevents edema, and decreases the amount of sugar circulating in the blood. Pomegranates revive tired muscles and enable them to move easily,22 and also strengthen the heart.23 OLIVES He sends down water from the sky. From it you drink, and from it come the shrubs among which you graze your herds. By it He makes crops grow for you, as well as olives and dates and grapes and fruit of every kind. There is certainly a Sign in that for people who reflect. (Surat An-Nahl: 10-11) Recent studies have revealed that olives are not only tasty, but also are a healthy source of food. Their linoleic acid is especially useful for breast-feeding mothers. Any deficiency in this acid slows a child's development and contributes to some skin diseases. Health organizations, among them the World Health Organization, recommend that people living in societies with high arteriosclerosis and diabetes rates consume oil that contains at least 30% linoleic acid. And this raises the olive's worth.24 Olives' benefits are not limited to linoleic acid. For example, the chlorine that they contain promotes the liver's functioning and thus facilitates the body's discharge of waste products. Since it also contributes to the body's skeleton, olives help to give the body strength and long life. They also are good for healthy cerebral arteries.25 Apart from these benefits, olive oil is a very important source of human nourishment. Contrary to solid butters, olive oil does not increase the level of cholesterol in the blood; rather, it keeps it under control and thus is the oil that doctors most recommend. Meanwhile, whether hot or cold, it reduces the amount of digestive acids and thus protects the stomach from such diseases as gastritis and ulcers.26 Activating bile secretion, it ensures that bile's composition develops into its perfect state. Furthermore, it regulates the gall bladder's evacuation and reduces the possibility of gall bladder calculi.27 Research also has revealed that olive oil has some ability to prevent the development of coronary artery disease by reducing the level of LDL, a cholesterol detrimental to health, while increasing the level of beneficial cholesterol HDL in the blood.28 Vitamins E, A, D, and K in oil are essential for bone development and mineralization in children and adults. It strengthens bones by stabilizing calcium. Olive oil is vital for developing organisms. Such antioxidant elements and fatty acids as linoleic acid, which is of great importance to people, promote hormones and biological cell membrane synthesis. Since these vitamins renew cells, they also are used to treat problems associated with ageing and to feed and preserve the skin. Since it contributes to the natural development of the infant's brain and nervous system before and after birth, the only oil recommended to mothers by specialists is olive oil. Aside from having a level of linoleic acid very close to that of mother's milk, it functions as a natural source of nourishment as mother's milk when mixed with non-fat cow's milk. Still, olive oil's most significant health property is its effects upon cardiac and arterial diseases. Due to all of these features, olive oil has attracted the attention of specialists in recent years.29 DATES In the earth there are diverse regions side by side and gardens of grapes and cultivated fields, and date-palms sharing one root and others with individual roots, all watered with the same water. And We make some things better to eat than others. There are Signs in that for people who use their intellect. (Surat ar-Ra'd: 4) Dates, a fruit mentioned in Surah Maryam , grow in dry soil in warm climates and have many benefits. Allah indicates their healing power by telling Maryam, who was in labor, to eat dates: A voice called out to her from under her: "Do not grieve! Your Lord has placed a small stream at your feet. Shake the trunk of the palm toward you, and fresh, ripe dates will drop down to you. Eat and drink and delight your eyes …" (Surah Maryam: 24-26) Allah draws our attention to dates for a purpose. Examining its properties gives us a better grasp this purpose. Dates, which are more than 50% sugar, are extremely nourishing, for they contain fructose and glucose that are high in calories, and can be digested easily and quickly.30 Its sugar calms frazzled nerves and ensures psychological security. Giving birth involves the loss of blood, which obviously reduces the amount of blood sugar. As that sugar must be restored, dates are quite useful. In addition, dates prevent any reduction in blood pressure. Although meat is very beneficial, it may not be as beneficial as fresh dates in all cases. Eating too much meat, which contains an abundant amount of protein, at such a time may even cause poisoning. Thus, such light foods as vegetables and fruits, which are easy to digest, should be preferred. In light of this verse, we see that dates are especially beneficial for pregnant and breast-feeding women. They promote healthy fetal development in the mother's womb, prevent the mother from weakening, and make her milk abundant and nourishing.31 At the same time, they are of great benefit to the brain. Dates, which consist of 2.2% protein, also contain vitamins A, B1, and B2. These proteins protect the body against disease and infection, enable body cells to regenerate, and balance bodily fluids. Vitamin A increases eyesight and bodily strength, as well as the strength of bones and teeth. Vitamin B1 facilitates the nervous system's healthy functioning, helps the body convert carbohydrates into energy, regulates appetite and digestion, and enables the metabolism of proteins and fats. Vitamin B2 facilitates the burning of those proteins, carbohydrates, and fats required for supplying energy and cell renewal. Apart from these, dates contain minerals that are essential to the body (e.g., potassium, sodium, calcium, iron, manganese, and copper). When potassium and sodium act together, they regulate the heart's pulsation rhythm. By facilitating the transfer of oxygen to the brain, potassium enables clear thought. Furthermore, it provides the appropriate alkaline property for bodily fluids, stimulates the kidneys to excrete toxic metabolic wastes, helps to lower high blood pressure, and promotes healthy skin formation.32 It is also interesting to note that a date's content is especially beneficial for people who live in areas where it is generally grown. Its protein and sugar are the most nourishing nutrients for desert people. MOTHER'S MILK We have instructed man concerning his parents. Bearing him caused his mother great debility, and the period of his weaning was two years: "Give thanks to Me and to your parents. I am your final destination." (Surat Luqman: 14) This verse draws our attention to the importance of breastfeeding a baby for 2 years. As is known, a mother's milk is the only source of food that meets all of a baby's needs. At the moment of birth, Allah places each baby under His protection and provides him or her with a nourishing drink that has no counterpart in any source or type of external nourishment. This is vital for the baby, because from the moment a baby opens its eyes to this world, its body must adapt to a new life. To facilitate this adaptation, the baby needs to be nourished and grow in the best way possible. Mother's milk is a perfect source of nourishment and increases both the baby's and the mother's resistance to disease. Doctors agree that artificially produced baby foods should be used only when the mother's milk is insufficient, and that the baby must be breastfed, especially during its first months, because no other nutrient material can fully substitute for a mother's milk. It is also miraculous that every mother's milk, as regards its density and quality, is produced according to her baby's specific and unique needs. For example, the milk of a mother who gives birth prematurely is quite different from that of a mother who completes a full-term pregnancy. A mother's milk is also antibacterial. Kept at room temperature for 6 hours, bacteria start to develop in cow's milk. However, this is not the case with mother's milk. A mother's perfect milk, which a baby can digest easily, cannot be matched by any man-made baby food. |
| |
islamic2
FISH: A VALUABLE SOURCE OF NUTRITION
Anything you catch in the sea is lawful for you, and all food from it, for your enjoyment and that of travellers… (Qur'an, 5:96)
The fact the average age of people developing and dying from heart disease is constantly decreasing has considerably increased the importance attached to coronary health. Although a great many advances have been registered in the treatment of heart disease, experts in the field basically recommend that careful precautions be taken before such diseases ever arise. Experts also recommend one important foodstuff for the healthy functioning of the heart and the prevention of disease: fish.
The reason why fish is such an important source of nutrition is that it both provides substances necessary for the human body and also reduces the risk of various diseases. For example, it has been revealed that when fish-which acts as a shield in terms of health with the omega-3 acid it contains-is consumed on a regular basis, it reduces the risk of heart disease and strengthens the immune system.
The fact that fish, the health benefits of which have only newly been scientifically registered, is an important nutritional source is revealed in the Qur'an. Almighty Allah makes the following references to seafood in the Qur'an: "It is He Who made the sea subservient to you so that you can eat fresh flesh from it..." (Qur'an, 16:14), "Anything you catch in the sea is lawful for you, and all food from it, for your enjoyment and that of travellers…" (Qur'an, 5:96) Furthermore, particular attention is drawn to fish in Surat al-Kahf, in which it is revealed that the Prophet Musa (as) set out on a long journey with his servant and that they took fish along with them to eat:
But when they reached their meeting-place, they forgot their fish which quickly burrowed its way into the sea. When they had gone a distance further on, he said to his servant, "Bring us our morning meal. Truly this journey of ours has made us tired." He said, "Do you see what has happened? When we went to find shelter at the rock, I forgot the fish…" (Qur'an, 18:61-63)
It is noteworthy that in Surat al-Kahf fish should be specially chosen as a foodstuff after a long, tiring journey. Therefore, one of the pieces of wisdom in this tale may well be an indication of the nutritional benefits of fish. (Allah knows best.)
In fact, when we examine the nutritional properties of fish, we encounter some very striking facts. Fish, given to us as a blessing by our Lord, are a perfect food, particularly in terms of protein, vitamin D and trace elements (certain elements found in minimal quantities in the body but which are still of great importance to it). Due to the minerals they contain-such as phosphorus, sulphur and vanadium-fish encourages growth and enables tissues to recover. Fish meat also assists in the formation of healthy teeth and gums, benefits the complexion, makes the hair healthier and contributes to the fight against bacterial infection. It also plays an important role in the prevention of heart attacks as it beautifully regulates the level of cholesterol in the blood. It helps the body to break down and use starch and fats, making it stronger and more energetic. On the other hand, it also influences the functioning of mental activities. In the event that the vitamin D and other minerals contained in fish are not consumed in sufficient quantities, disorders such as rickets (bone weakness), gum disease, goitre and hyperthyroid may all arise.124
In addition, modern science has also discovered that the omega-3 fatty acids in fish also occupy an important place in human health. These fats have even been described as essential fatty acids.
The Benefits of Omega-3 in Fish Oil
There are two kinds of unsaturated fatty acid in fish oil which are particularly important for our health: EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). EPA and DHA are known as polyunsaturated fats and contain the important omega-3 fatty acids. Since the fatty acids omega-3 and omega-6 are not manufactured in the human body, they need to be taken in from the outside.
There is a large body of evidence relating to the benefits to human health of fish oil, the actual benefit stemming from its omega-3 fatty acid content. Despite being present in vegetable oils, these omega-3 fatty acids are less effective in relation to human health. However, marine plankton is very effective at turning omega-3 into EPA and DHA. When fish eat plankton, their constitution becomes much richer in EPA and DHA. That, in turn, makes fish one of the richest sources of these vitally important fatty acids.
Vital Benefits of the Fatty Acids Found in Fish
One of the main features of the fatty acids in fish is the contribution they make to the body's energy production. These fatty acids carry out electron transfers by attaching themselves to oxygen in the body and permit energy to be produced for various chemical processes within it. There is therefore considerable evidence that a diet rich in fish oil helps combat fatigue and increases mental and physical capacity. Omega-3 increases the individual's powers of concentration as much as it does his or her energy levels. There is a scientific foundation to the old saying "fish is good for the brain": The main compound in brain fat is DHA, which contains omega-3 fatty acids.
The Importance of Fish for a Healthy Heart and Arteries
The omega-3 fatty acid in fish is acknowledged to protect against cardiovascular disease by reducing blood pressure and the cholesterol and triglyceride in the blood.125 Triglyceride is a form of fat and resembles LDL (bad cholesterol) which is high in fat and low in protein content. A raised triglyceride level, especially together with high cholesterol, increases the risk of heart disease. In addition, fish oils reduce life-threatening post-heart attack abnormal heart rhythms.
In one study by the American Medical Association, it was observed that heart attack levels in women eating five portions of fish a week fell by one-third. This is thought to stem from the omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil causing less blood clotting. The normal speed of blood in our veins is 60 kmph (37.3 mph) and it is of vital importance for the blood to be of the right viscosity and for the density, quantity and speed to be at normal levels. The worst danger for our blood-apart from normal conditions of bleeding-is for it to clot and lose the ability to flow properly. Fish oils are also effective in reducing blood clotting by preventing the thrombocytes in the blood (blood platelets that concentrate the blood in the event of bleeding) from adhering to one another. Otherwise, blood thickening can lead to narrowing of the arteries. In turn, this can lead to many organs in the body-especially the heart, brain, eyes and kidneys-receiving an inadequate blood supply, function deceleration and eventually, loss of function. For example, when an artery is totally blocked on account of clotting this can lead to heart attack, paralysis or other disorders, depending on the location of the artery.
Omega-3 fatty acids also play an important role in the production of the molecule haemoglobin, that carries oxygen in the red blood cells, and in controlling the nutrients passing through the cell membrane. They also prevent the damaging effects of fats harmful to the body.
Importance for the Development of New Born Babies
Being an important component of the brain and eye, omega-3 fatty acids have been the subject of research, especially over the last 10 years, in connection with the needs of new born babies. There is a considerable body of evidence relating to the importance of omega-3 to the development of the foetus in the mother's womb and of the new-born baby. Omega-3 is of the greatest importance for the proper development of the brain and nerves throughout pregnancy and in early babyhood. Scientists emphasise the importance of mother's milk since it is a natural and perfect store of omega-3.Benefits for Joint Health
The major risk in rheumatoid arthritis (a painful joint condition linked to rheumatism) is that of wearing of the joints, leading to irreparable damage. It has been proven that a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids prevents arthritis and reduces discomfort in swollen and sensitive joints.
Benefits Regarding the Healthy Functioning of the Brain and Nervous System
A large number of studies have revealed the effects of omega-3 fatty acids on the healthy functioning of the brain and nerves. In addition, it has been shown that fish oil reinforcement can reduce symptoms of depression and schizophrenia and prevent Alzheimer's disease (a brain disease which causes loss of memory and hinders day-to-day activities). For example, reductions in such problems as anxiety, stress and sleeping difficulties have been observed in individuals suffering from depression who took 1 gram of omega-3 fatty acid over a period of 12 weeks.126
Benefits against Inflammatory Disorders and Strengthening of the Immune System
At the same time, omega-3 fatty acids have an anti-inflammatory (infection preventing) function. Omega-3 can therefore be employed in the following diseases:
- Rheumatoid arthritis (joint infection linked to rheumatism),
- Osteoarthritis (a form of arthritis gradually degenerating the functions of joints)
- Ulcerative colitis (ulcers linked to the inflammation of the colon), and
- Lupus (a disease which causes patches on the skin).
- It also protects myelin (the material surrounding nerve cells). It is therefore used in the treatment of
- Glaucoma (an eye disorder marked by abnormally high pressure within the eyeball that may even lead to blindness)
- Multiple sclerosis (a serious progressive disease resulting from tissue hardening in the brain and spinal cord),
- Osteoporosis (a disease leading to structural weakening in the bone structure)
- Diabetes patients.
- In addition, it is also reported to be useful in the treatment of
- Migraine patients,
- Anorexia (a possibly fatal eating disorder)
- Burns
- Problems concerning skin health.
There is also wide-ranging evidence that societies such as the Greenland Eskimos and Japanese, who eat a lot of fish, rich in omega-3 fatty acid, have a much lower incidence of heart and artery disease, asthma and psoriasis. Fish is therefore recommended as a form of treatment and is particularly recommended by nutritionists on account of its proven benefits for coronary health.
Additional benefits to those outlined above are emerging every day. Moreover, it has only been possible to reveal the health benefits of fish by a great many scientists working in well-equipped research laboratories. The fact that such a valuable source of nutrition is indicated in the Qur'an, and especially that it is described as a fatigue eliminator in Surat al-Kahf, is nothing short of awe-inspiring. All the benefits provided by fish are a great blessing given us by our Lord. As with all foods, it is Allah, the Lord of the Worlds, Who has created the superior structure in fish for our benefit.
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)