Islam

King Charles III, pictured on 19 November 2021, next to the ‘mahmal’, the palanquin formerly used to transport the ‘kiswah’, the cover that engulfs the Kaaba, during a visit to Egypt’s Alexandria (AFP)   The king, who once studied Arabic to better understand the Quran, has long spoken about Islamic history and theology   In 1996, the grand mufti of …

This historic photo shows the location of the Zamzam (Arabic: زمزم‎‎) Well in the Mataf area. The Zamzam Well has provided some 4000 years of almost continuous water supply, a living miracle. Note that the entry to the well and this marking was removed in 2003. The origin of the Zamzam Well Ebrahim (عليه السلام) took his son Ismail (عليه السلام) and the child’s …

Pomegranates are a holy food for Muslims and Jews The princely pomeganate, ar-Rumm in Arabic, is mentioned in the Koran as one of the many delicious rewards awaiting in Paradise. Its numerous uses in cooking and medicine, as well as its beautiful structure, make the fruit a wonder for Muslims who believe that each pomegranate seed is a sign of the sustainer. Pomegranates …

The Day of Ashura is the 10th day of Muharram, which is the first month in the Islamic calendar, and translates to ‘the tenth’. On this day, Muslims are encouraged to fast, as well as increasing other forms of worship. While it is advised to fast on this day, it is also recommended to fast on the day before it or …

by Mufti Muhammad Ismail *Please note: the word ’Arafah refers to the Day of ’Arafah, while the word ’Arafat refers to the Plains of ’Arafat outside Makkah.  What is the Day of ′Arafah? The Day of ’Arafah is the ninth day of Dhul-Hijjah – this year, it is on 8th July 2022. The first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah are the …