The Textile Planet

The Textile Planet, Sue Lange, 2010, B0041VYMUS (Kindle e-book)

Marla Gershe is a middle-level supervisor on the Textile Planet, an entire world devoted to textiles and the making of clothes. It's a high-stress job; Marla has daily production quotas that must be met. One day, Marla's boss takes away half of her staff to put them on anothdr project, but Marla still has to make her daily production quota. Marla has had enough, and organizes a strike among the employees. In the confucion, Marla is shot in the stomach, and is rushed to the hospital.

Wherever Marla is, it is not exactly a hospital. She undergoes several months of experiments, like someone is doing psychological warfare on her. BAC, the consortium that runs the Textile Planet, would very much like Marla back at work, but Marla would rather be anywhere else. She gets out of the hospital, and immediately hops a spaceship to the most distant planet, a place called Ansonia.

Ansonia is said to be the "end of the line." Think of an 1800s American frontier town. It's a planet with a severe employment shortage; as long as you have two arms, two legs and a semi-functioning brain, you're hired. Marla finds herself doing data entry, locked into a cubicle for several hours a day, entering rows of numbers that come to her off of pieces of paper that come out of a chute. Marla has no idea what the numbers mean. At lunch, her fellow workers talk about the usual lunchtime topics, and about much deeper subjects, like the roles of men and women. After a year, Meko, Marla's boss, tells her that people have been asking about her, so a fast departure is a very good idea.

Marka ends up on an unexplored, desolate rock called XKJ-10. If Ansonia is the end of the line, XKJ-10 is much farther out than that. Marla meets Sam, a human who has been living on the planet for several months. He has a beard down to his waist, he has quite a mansion (made up of a number of different tents) and he claims that he can talk to the local ants. A major scientific discovery is made several million miles away (next door in astronomical terms), so XKJ-10 goes from being a desolate planet in the middle of nowhere to the most popular spot in the galaxy. Marla and Sam plan all sorts of construction, including a spaceport and hotel, to take advantage of all those scientists who will be coming their way.

Here is an interesting story that moves very quickly, perhaps too quickly. It's well done, and it will keep the reader's attention.

Paul Lappen is a freelance book reviewer whose blog, http://www.deadtreesreview.blogspot.com, emphasizes small press and self-published books.

Planet Dinosaur

Planet Dinosaur - New Documentary Series

It was last year that the BBC (British Broadcasting Company) announced plans to collaborate with a number of other broadcasters and partners to produce a new documentary series focusing on dinosaurs. In 1997, the BBC produced the seminal "Walking with Dinosaurs" television series and this six-part documentary series went on to become the most commercially successful of all BBC programmes to date. Over the last two years or so, the BBC and its partners have been working on a follow-up television series, one that builds on the "Walking with Dinosaurs" legacy and shows some of the latest findings and research into the Dinosauria by palaeontologists.

The new documentary series entitled "Planet Dinosaur" utilises the very latest computer generated images and graphics plus some of the techniques that were pioneered by the early dinosaur themed programmes. But why a new television show devoted to dinosaurs? The answer is quite simple, the huge sums generated by the first series has had a lot to do with it, as have the new dinosaur discoveries that have taken place over the thirteen or so years after "Walking with Dinosaurs". Interestingly, with the development of new research methods, the revision of dinosaur cladistics and the opening up of new parts of the world to explore such as eastern Europe, northern China and Angola, more discoveries about dinosaurs have been made in the last decade than in the preceding one hundred years.

Planet Dinosaur will take the same format as the previous BBC dinosaur series. It will consist of six half hour programmes and it will be supported by a book release and a DVD. We have received a request to review the book when it comes out, the front cover features our old friend Spinosaurus and the DVD will also have a similar cover.

Planet Dinosaur - Programme Details

This new television series focuses on prehistoric animals that lived during the Jurassic and the Cretaceous geological periods. The Triassic Period does not really get a look in. The opening episode is called "Lost World" and takes viewers to North Africa in the early part of the Cretaceous. This programme explores the coastal ecosystem that was dominated by two apex predators, namely the huge meat-eater Carcharodontosaurus, a relative of the better-known predator Allosaurus from the Late Jurassic. The second apex predator is Spinosaurus, arguably the largest Theropod known to science, with an estimated length in excess of seventeen metres. Scientists have postulated that this particular dinosaur was a specialist fish-eater, filling the niche that is filled today by the extant Grizzly Bear.

The second episode, due to air a week after the first is entitled "Feathered Dinosaurs" and focuses on the amazing feathered dinosaur discoveries from Liaoning Province in northern China. Episode three concerns the emergence of the super-predators during the last years of the Cretaceous. This is the part of the documentary series that features the Tyrannosaurs along with their southern hemisphere cousins the Abelisaurids - bizarre, light-skulled predators.

Over the rest of the six-part series new prehistoric animal discoveries will be covered such as the giant marine reptile known as "Predator X". The huge Cretaceous crocodile Sarcosuchus (Sarcosuchus imperator) an animal capable of attacking large dinosaurs. The television programmes are certainly going to be a highlight of the autumn schedule and we look forward to reviewing more of the series.

Everything Dinosaur is run by parents, teachers and real dinosaur experts. Visit our website http://www.everythingdinosaur.com/models-and-inflatables.html to view the very latest dinosaur and prehistoric animal models.

To learn more about the products and services we offer at Everything Dinosaur visit Everything Dinosaur http://everythingdinosaur.com/

Polar Shift of Planet Earth in 2012

Many prophecies have been made concerning the end of the world as we know it happening in the year 2012. One possible occurrence that NASA has been conducting studies about is a possible polar shift of the planet. The earth seems to be going through changes that are creating more and more disastrous events in both extreme weather and earthquake intensity. Although indirectly, NASA conducts research in many areas of earths make up as well as our solar system. Some of this research gives us clues as to possible reasons that these disastrous events are unfolding on earth today. Could a massive dwarf star, (Nibiru or Planet X) be aligning with other astral bodies in our solar systems that are causing this effect on the planet? There are many who think that this is indeed happening, and this is the cause of the end of world 2012 prophecies. At this time there is no scientific data that supports this theory and as such cannot be regarded as true or correct. There are many factors that one has to look at before claims of planetary a shift in the magnetic poles happening in 2012 is possible. The scientists have presented the following information on this particular topic:

Our north and south poles are determined by the direction of spin of the earth's inner core. The inner core is made up of iron and hot magma that spins creating a magnetic action that defines our geomagnetic poles. Our planets polarity, of north and south as remained in a constant state for quite some time now. There have been indications that polar shifts have occurred in the past and it is possible that the earth could be past due for a shift in the poles. The last time a polar shift occurred on the earth was over three hundred thousand years ago. Studies have indicated that the earth shifts on its polar axis about every three hundred thousand years. This does tend to indicate the earth is past due for a polar shift. Is 2012 the year this occurs? Will 2012 be the year the new polar shift occurs? Will this be the end of the world? The planet could have a polar shift quite suddenly and unexpectedly as it is overdue.

NASA does state that a shift in the poles are indeed possible, they do not believe that these shifts may occur as abruptly as others are claiming. NASA has been studying earth as well as all other heavenly bodies and is considered to be trusted experts in this area. Any doomsday prophecies or end of the world statements are deemed to be lacking the scientific evidence to be considered or proven as solid truth. Further research needs to be conducted before claims that an immediate destruction of the earth cause by a polar shift can be considered possible. Catastrophic effects causing the end of the world in 2012 by a polar shift or even the sun is very unlikely to occur.

Raising Adolescent Daughters

 This is for all mothers, or parents, 'going though' adolescence with their daughters. You might have heard about it being a tricky phase - now you can 'phew' in agreement! It calls for special nerves to handle the on-set of this metamorphosis.

The 'sugar and spice and all things nice' goes for a toss as turbulent hormones shift bringing on physical changes. 'These' are easy to deal with, and you might even have your daughter elated about the fact that she'll soon be a young girl, like her favorite icon. It's the psychological changes that take you for a spin and call for your best tack!

Relax your hold

Suddenly, you feel your control slipping away as she begins to assert her new found reason. The situation might be as simple as why she cannot wear a dress that you feel is inappropriate for a place or occasion: or why it is that she has to eat what you make at meal times.

However, unless 'her way' is completely beyond parental standards, it is fine to let her try her terms. You have to remember - your child is emerging as an individual. It requires for you to release your hold (and saves you washing out energy on a pointless argument!).

 Guide tactfully

With that said, this is the 'cannot-escape' time in your life as a parent, when you have the huge responsibility of navigating your daughter to her right route with the right attitudes and principles. She might not appear to pay much heed to your experience, thoughts, and counseling, but rest ensured that it is all being stored in her memory data. Haven't we done the same as we were growing up? The firmest of principles that we hold today are ones that we shirked from hearing while our Moms talked.

However, the right time to guide your daughter about the right conduct or values is when she is in the 'talk mode' and wants to share. Be the friend that she wants you to be and share but not dictate your beliefs.

Listen to what she has to say

Their intellect has reached the stage of measuring, evaluating, and judging their world. Grown out of the 'why and how' phase of childhood, your daughter now is full of ideas and beliefs that she wants to share. This is also the time when her self esteem is at its vulnerable best. Your reaction to her individual thought has more capacity to impact her self esteem than you know. Positive statements and attitudes work wonders to help her in developing a healthy outlook, and are definite confidence boosters.

Despite the havoc she might stir asserting her own, she needs you more than ever. Find ways to ward away confrontations. If it means giving up on your long-held opinions to give way to hers, do it. That is the first step up in creating a healthy friendship with your daughter.

Professional Children's Entertainers

 The general most popular entertainment comes in the form of; clowns, ball pits, magicians, face painter, balloon models, bouncy castles, party games and live animals.

Clowns are a very good choice as they are funny and their main aim is to keep the children laughing. It's usually a single entertainer working alone, which means it is a cheaper option that can have very good results. A common problem with clowns is that some children really aren't fond of them, and this could create a bad atmosphere with children at the party or event.

Children's magicians are able to create a great atmosphere in parties as the children are usually too young to understand what happens behind the illusions. Pretty much all kids will find this type of children's entertainers very interested and as long as you hire one of the quality magicians they will have enough tricks to keep your children entertained for hours. If you're looking for someone who can do balloon modelling most magicians will kill two birds with one stone; although there are specific balloon modellers available.

 Looking for something extra to keep your children entertained and give the professional a break?
Ball pits and bouncy castles are very fun, however hours of the same thing could make the event very boring in the eyes of a child. Children get bored easy, so you want something that changes into a different act when needed. If you combine one of these methods with another such as a clown or magician you can easy keep switching between the two or use the pit or castle as a breaking point for the entertainer. Either way they are sure to keep your children satisfied for a good amount of time. They are usually relatively cheap and can be rented out for the day at a private or public location.

Party games are a classic method of entertainment, as at some point in our lives all of us have done them. Games include pass the parcel and musical chairs, and usually incur some sort of prize for the winner. Games like these are sure to take a sufficient amount of time whilst keeping children fully entertained.

Live animals are a more expensive option, but most kids really do enjoy the chance to touch and see live animals. You can usually get horses along with various other farm animals. Usually a professional entertainer will come along with the animals to ensure goes as planned and the environment stays safe.

Finding professional children's entertainment in your local area usually isn't very hard. The paper and the internet are great places to start looking, although most entertainers have their services advertised around town and on their own transport.

The author runs Children's Entertainers the online resource for finding the perfect professional kids party entertainment.

Custom Made Flower Girl Dresses For Your Little Girl

 In this day and age of RTW's (ready to wear), everything instant and ready to eat, the businesses of tailoring and custom made dresses as well as shoes are still thriving. Gowns and dresses as well as suits for men to be worn on special occasions such as weddings, christenings, dedications, gala nights and other important formal occasions are treated with such respect that off the rack clothes are simply unacceptable.

When you are thinking of having your dress or gowns tailor made there are a couple of things you should be thinking about. Just like your concerns when you are thinking of having your little girl's flower girl dress custom made because you are simply concerned about how your precious little girl would look the moment she walks the isle ahead of the bride. Let us take a look at some consideration and reasons why parents like you would opt to have your girl's flower girl dress custom or tailor maid.

Size
There is a certain age in children when you just can't get the right size for them specially in gowns or formal clothes. This is one reason parents and brides opt to have their flower girl's dresses custom made. For little girl's who are slim, the problem lies in the fitting on the shoulders and waist line.

 Style and Design
It is hard to find the right color and design of wedding gowns and dresses that is why gowns and dresses on this occasion are usually custom made or tailor fit to satisfy the special style and design of the bride's gown and the rest of her entourage including the flower girls' dresses.

Fabric
When you decide to have your daughter's flower girl dress custom made, you also have a say on the fabric that you prefer which is good because you know which fabric your daughter is more comfortable in.

When choosing the right tailoring company of dress maker, there are also some things you should consider. It is not an easy task to find somebody who can both sew, listen to what you really want and create the perfect dress that you have envisioned for your flower girl.

Reputation
The reputation of a good dress maker is like a juicy gossip in town. Everyone knows a good dress maker, a great baker or a fine cook; all you have to do is ask around and they'll point you to the right direction. But of course you have to try it out for yourself and really see if what they are saying is true or not.

Budget
A good dress maker or tailor doesn't come cheap. Their rates are usually a bit higher than buying ready to wear clothes in a good boutique or shop. You have to ask right away how much a flower girl's dress would cost including the fabric if you want them to buy the fabric as well. Sometimes it is good idea to let the dress maker buy the fabric for you. They are regular customers of fabric shops and they get a lot of discounts most of the time. Just make sure you tell them exactly what you want. Better yet, shop first and ask for sample swatches of the fabric you want and give it to your tailor or dress maker and they'll buy it for you.

Being a flower girl in a wedding could be really exciting for your daughter. That is why it is very important for her to look her best on that day. From her hair down to her shoes most specially her dress should be perfect. After all, she'll be in front of the bridal procession and everyone's eyes will be focused on her first and then the bride.

Go to the links to discover the best assortment of boys tuxedo, boys ties and other apparels. Order from discounted items and maximize complimentary shipping when you go to the website today.

Fun and Versatile Children's Furniture

 Smart moms love multi-functioning furniture. It's because kids' rooms are almost always the smallest rooms in the house and furniture can take up so much floor space. And we all know that kids' may be tiny, but they sure have a lot of stuff. No matter how much we edit their books and toys, there is always a need for storage. It's a good thing that there are many multi-functioning children's furniture.

Parents are afraid to invest on children's furniture that last only a few short years. However, there are pieces worth the money. For example, there are soft benches that are safe and fun for kids. Most of these soft benches are made of nontoxic materials. Those which are made especially for kids are also sturdy enough to withstand rough play. Kids can literally play with its soft pieces. Because soft benches have no hard edges, even the small ones can safely climb on them, flip them, or take the pieces apart easily. Don't let the lightweight materials fool you- it is sturdy enough for adults to sit on. After all, moms and dads like to spend time playing with their kids, too. And the decidedly modern design is an attractive addition to a kid's room.

 Another piece of multi-purpose furniture is the ottoman. Most of kids' ottomans have now incorporated storage. You can get one that will match the modern and colorful design of your soft benches. There are ottomans that have reversible lids. When you turn the lid on its wooden side, it can be used as a play table for toddlers. Underneath the lid is a convenient storage space. You can also use a space divider to further organize what you store inside. Space dividers will help segregate toys. We all know how frustrating it is when small toys mix with large ones. Another great feature of this small wonder is that they can be safely piled up to form a colorful tower and free up precious floor space. Don't forget that it is actually an ottoman, so it is the perfect resting spot for tired feet.

There you have it. Your kids can have a pleasant and organized environment to play in even in their tiny rooms. They can now say goodbye to missing toys, rest their tired feet on comfortable ottomans, and sit and play on soft benches that double as toys. By carefully choosing versatile children's furniture, you can reduce clutter and have cool, colorful furniture that you and your children can enjoy.

Mosques in Palestine - A New Endangered Species!

 Palestinian Cultural Heritage is not limited to a specific religious group or chronological framework like most source countries of the Mediterranean and the Middle East. It encompasses an incredible diachronic and multi-cultural spectrum of cultural expressions. This ranges from tangible cultural heritage, which includes:

movable cultural heritage (paintings, sculptures, coins, manuscripts)
immovable cultural heritage (monuments, archaeological sites)

And also encompasses intangible cultural heritage expressed through:
oral traditions, performing arts, rituals

As well as natural heritage seen in:
natural sites with cultural aspects such as cultural landscapes, physical, biological or geological formations

This cultural wealth is embedded in Palestinian identity through the ages. Its rich past can be visualised as a mosaic of colourful little stones, each with its function and place; it is the result of religious variety and a strong diachronic and omnipresent multi-culturalism.

In this article, I present a collation of concerns on the situation of Palestinian Cultural Heritage at Hebron al-Khalil with a focus on the Ibrahemi Mosque. This city boasts remains from the Canaanite culture of the Bronze Age ca. 3,500 B.C.E, through the early historic ages, the Roman and Christian periods, the Middle Ages, and all the way to our era. Yet, this diachronic multi-cultural past is denied and treated with selectivity with regard to its value and identity, both in theory and in practice. Selectivity mostly effects restrictions to its current Muslim identity and religious practices as linked to the Ibrahemi Mosque.

 Today, the story of Hebron and its monuments is attempted to be re-written through a number of events and actions, which constitute violations of the full spectrum of Cultural and other Fundamental Human Rights related to the existence of Palestinian Identity and Palestinian Cultural Heritage. The recent decision of Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, declares that the Cave of the Patriarchs in Hebron and Rachel's Tomb in Bethlehem, both of which are in the Palestinian Territories and under the auspices of the PNA and the Palestinian Antiquities Authority, though under Israeli control according to Oslo accords, are to be added to the list of Israel's 'national' heritage sites that the government plans to promote. It is reported and useful to retain that this decision was promulgated during a cabinet meeting in the northern town of Tel Hai, where the Prime Minister precise that rightist religious party Shas persuaded him to add the two sites to the list. The process and motivation for these actions is recounted in Mr. Netanyahu's words:

"Our existence depends not only on the IDF or our economic resilience - it is anchored in...the national sentiment that we will bestow upon the coming generations and in our ability to justify our connection to the land,".

Similar intense religious and nationalistic statements, supported by the annexation and physical intervention on key cultural and archaeological sites, are by no means new for Israel. Its systematisation, as reported by Israeli archaeologists begins shortly after the 1967 war and the annexation of the Palestinian Territories, including East Jerusalem. The Palestinian Territories are interesting 'culturally' and Israel has heightened awareness and appreciation on the potential of culture. The most recent statistics on the number of archaeological sites mapped within the Palestinian Territories, record the identification of 5400 archaeological sites. Already, 900 sites have been excavated by Israel implementing on the ground the policy of cultural appreciation.

The case of the Cave of the Patriarchs and the Ibrahemi Mosque in al-Khalil merits special attention. This is due to its perception, state and use as an 'active monument' since 1206, of cultural and religious importance, which elevates it to the status of 'living heritage'. This is to be differentiated from other types of heritage, such as the local archaeological site of Tell Rumeida whose activities seized with the end of the Canaanite culture.

Tradition holds that the Cave of the Patriarchs is was the first plot of land that Abraham the Patriarch bought, and where he and his family tomb lies today. The first enclosure to the caves was built under the auspices of Herod the Great. Under the Byzantine Empire, a basilica was built on the spot, later ruined by the Persians in 614 C.E. Upon the remains of the Christian Basilica, the Ibrahemi Mosque was built in 637. The Ummayads equally contributed significantly to its restoration after severe earthquakes. The Crusaders recaptured the site in 1100 and turned it into a Church and in 1188 Salâh Ad-Dîn Al-Ayyûbî recaptured it and turned it into a Mosque with limited access for Christians to worship. In the Mamluk period, important works were undertaken to turn it into a proper Mosque and Jews were hence forbidden to enter. As known to date, a Jewish synagogue has never existed on the spot. Since 1967 around 3/4 of the Mosque was confiscated and benches and other ornaments were added gradually to transform it into a synagoguial space. Although to the Jewish faith it constitutes a Holy Place, the investment is limited and only recent.

From this very brief outline of major activities, it is seen that there have always been shared and conflicting interests in the maintenance and preservation of the character of this site, claimed by all three monotheistic religions in their efforts of self-presentation. Its status has followed that of the two major occupying religions, Christianity and Islaam both of which were eager to impose a specific religious character. The most tolerant period was the Mamluk with limited Christian access inside the Mosque. The Mamluks forbade Jews from entering the site, only allowing them as close as the 5th step on a staircase at the southeast, but after some time this was increased to the 7th step.

Yet, proportionately, most works and expenses undertaken, as well as 'duration' past and current with regard to religious heritage is strongly in favour of the Muslim community as attested to by 14 centuries of history. The mosque also acquired further importance during time as a community charitable centre. It came to include a school, a dike, a drinking fountain, a hospital for the mentally disabled and a mail centre on its grounds that were constructed during the Mamluk period. Hebron today is a city which boasts a strong Muslim population and the Ibrahemi Mosque is under the auspices of the Islamic Waqf, as other holy sites in Palestine.

Israel continues to deny the cultural and religious significance of the Mosque, in its efforts to assimilate it to its national agenda. This situation in Hebron today with regard to Muslim monuments and holy places is in constant deterioration. It reminds us of the events of 2007.

As reported:

'The settlers, under the protection of the Israeli army, stormed the two places then took the furniture out in the street and threatened to burn it during a coming Jewish holiday. Aqtab mosque and the nearby Islamic Waqf offices are closed by the army since five years were the army do not allow the Palestinian residents from praying in the at mosque in the same time soldiers allow Israeli settlers from attacking and destroying the mosque in order to take it and turn it into a Jewish synagogue.'

The current agenda of Israel is to create a national sentiment through ground actions of presence to justify its connection to the land under occupation. This misallocation of force and active cleansing of targeted cities and sites that preserve its local character are assaults against Cultural Heritage and the Right to Culture. This further inhibits the practice of fundamental Human Rights, such as the Freedom of Religion and the Right to Development. This applies to both the Christian and Muslim populations of Palestine. From the example of al-Khalil it is demonstrated that the targeting of Cultural Heritage is a burning Humanitarian issues for the Palestinians which merits action and we encourage that the preponderant culture of impunity that Israel benefits from is levered so that the damages are halted and that Palestinian Cultural Heritage may survive.

Lydia Evdoxiadi Verniory is a Cultural Heritage Consultant. She advises states on promoting and protecting their national cultural heritage.

Jama Masjid - Delhi, India

 Jama Masjid or Masjid-i-Jahan Numa as in Urdu is one of the largest and oldest mosques in India. This mosque was specially built in 1656 AD on the order of Shah Jahan, the Mughal Emperor who has the famous Taj Mahal to his fame.

A grand and remarkable example of the Mughal architecture, the Jama Masjid has a huge spacious courtyard which can house about twenty five thousand individuals at a time. The mosque outlooks the Red Fort at the east and is situated at the beginning of the busy streets of Chandni Chowk or Old Delhi.

 The Masjid-i-Jahan Numa refers to the mosque that commands a view of the entire world. It took a period of six years and about 5000 odd workers to complete this magnificent structure, which includes three gateways, two minarets, and four towers. A wonderful piece of architecture, this mosque is built on a 10-m platform from the ground level and extends along 1200 sq m in area. Open arched arcades cover the west-facing mosque on three sides. Three domes alternately striped in white and black marble form the roof of the 80-m long and 27-m wide mosque. The domes are lined on either side by two huge 41-m tall minarets containing 130 steps. Red sandstone and white marble stripes are present on these minarets. Four similar minarets also adorn the backside of the mosque.

A flight of 39 stairs on the northern side, and 33 stairs on the southern end lead their way into the courtyard. The main gate or the royal entrance lies on the eastern front has a staircase of 35 steps. These stairs are made up of red sandstone, the primary material used in the ancient times. The royal entrance on the east usually remains closed during most of the week. As the name suggests, this entrance was mainly used by the emperors and members of the royal families. Ancient relics of Prophet Muhammad are entrenched in a marble slab and displayed on a high pulpit at the northern gate of the mosque, so as to enable a splendid view for all around. These include the famous Khuran inscribed on deerskin, the prophet's sandals, his red beard-hair, his sandals, and footprints. Shops and food stalls used to line these steps once upon a time. A poultry bazaar also used to spring up during the evenings. The eastern gate used to therefore buzz with activities.

The Blue Mosque, in Istanbul, Turkey

 Massive and magnificent, the Blue Mosque dominates Istanbul's skyline. Six minarets, shining silver in the sun, pierce the air like expectant rockets. Built four hundred years ago, 1603-17, by Sultan Ahmet I, it was designed to rival the great church of Haghia Sophia, just a stone's throw to the north.

Not content with challenging one of Christendom's most sacred shrines, the Blue Mosque even vied for supremacy with Islam's holiest mosque at Mecca, the only one at the time to have six minarets. To quash the scandal a seventh minaret was added in Mecca.

Stroll into the vast courtyard and you are engulfed by arches, domes, and semi-domes on every horizon. Walk into the hushed inner sanctum, and you'll see that these architectural cascades weren't just built to impress. They have the practical purpose of creating a vast interior with giant columns, stained glass windows, and thousands of tiles whose blue hue gives the mosque its moniker.

 Come and you'll marvel at this Ottoman masterpiece, but remember this is no ruinous relic of the past. Listen to the call to prayer, watch the pilgrims wash themselves, and you'll see this is a living, breathing building, still filled by the faithful.

HIGHLIGHTS

Count the tiles. There are tens of thousands of them; the finest money could buy from the celebrated kilns of Iznik. Lilies, tulips, trees, and abstract patterns swirl in bright blues and greens.

Go at night. During the summer months there is a free 'son et lumiere', where the story of the mosque's construction is told in different languages on different evenings. A multicoloured marvel under a starry sky.

Walk from the west. To best appreciate the building, approach from the Hippodrome side, slowly. Walk through the first portal and into the courtyard. The mosque's epic roof comes into sight, and your perspective of the domes cascading down changes with every step.

Raise your eyes to heaven. Marvel at the six slender and elegant minarets soaring into the blue sky.

TRAVEL INFO

When to go: Spring and Autumn. Mid April to early June, and September to October are the best times to avoid the intense summer heat and crowds.

How long: Take your time. The courtyard is a glorious place to sit and soak up the atmosphere. Walk around the outside to get a measure of the building, then investigate the interior. It's worth going back when it's busy so you can see the mosque at work, with hundreds or thousands of people carrying out their ritual ablutions. A night time visit offers a wonderfully different perspective.

Planning & Inside Information: The mosque is closed to non-worshipers for about half an hour for the five daily prayers. Lunchtime prayers on Friday, the Muslim holy day, are busiest of all, and the mosque can be closed for an hour or more. Dress modestly, although shawls can be provided by the mosque. The building is very cold in winter, so wrap up warm and wear extra socks since you need to remove shoes to go in.

Other suggestions: Combine a few days exploring Istanbul with a visit to some of Turkey's other cultural wonders. Visit Cappadocia, a geological wonderland, go walking on the Lycian Way, one of the world's best hiking routes, or charter your very own private gulet and take a gulet cruise along the beautiful turquoise coast.

An archaeologist and award winning filmmaker, Peter Sommer runs a travel company, Peter Sommer Travels, offering cultural tours and family holidays in Turkey, Greece, and Italy. This family run tour operator particularly specialises in gulet cruises and gulet charters.

Peter has worked on many acclaimed BBC/PBS/CNN TV series including In the footsteps of Alexander the Great, and Commanding Heights: the battle for the world economy. His most recent series, Tales from the Green Valley, about life on a Welsh farm in the year 1620, was shown to rave reviews on BBC2 in the UK in 2005.

He has had travel articles published in newspapers incl. The Times(UK), The Brisbane Sunday Mail & The South China Morning Post, & magazines incl. Cruise Magazine, Good Holiday Guide, Yacht Vacations Magazine, The Travel Magazine, The European Magazine etc. He is a member of the Outdoor Writers' Guild, the UK's best established guild of professional outdoor & travel writers.

The Grand Mosque Oman

 The Grand Mosque of Oman is the creation of the current ruler of Oman, Sultan Qaboos. In the early 1990's, the Sultan decided that his country should have a grand mosque to compete with those of other Muslim countries. A nationwide competition was held for its design in which hundreds of applicants submitted their designs for the building of the mosque. After the winner and a building site were chosen, construction on the mosque commenced in 1995. It took almost six and a half years for the project to be completed. However, in May of 2001, it was completed and christened by the Sultan. Constructed from Indian sandstone, the mosque cuts an imposing figure. However, it is a beloved house of worship for many Muslims.

 The main prayer hall, which is called a musalla, can house up to seven thousand worshippers at once. There is also a woman's musalla which can hold almost seven hundred and fifty worshippers. In addition to these prayer halls, there are also covered passageways, meeting halls, and a library. The library is currently filled with almost 20,000 books. All in all, the mosque can house 20,000 worshippers at any one given time. The outer courtyard of the mosque allows for the accommodation of 8,000 worshippers alone. The passageways and the inner courtyard also offer room for pilgrims to practice their religious faith.

 The craftsmanship and detail that cover the interior of the mosque is truly astounding. The interior is constructed almost entirely of marble in colors of gray and off white. Tile work, in various floral patterns, adds a sense of elegance to the many murals that are found in the hallways of the mosque. Verses from the Koran, framed in gold, adorn the walls of the two prayer halls. Two of the most prominent, and most famous, features of the Grand Mosque are its Persian carpet and its chandelier. The Persian carpet is used as a prayer carpet. It is the largest hand-woven carpet in the world. Weighing over 21 tons, it took four years to complete. Over six hundred women from various provinces in Iran were involved in its making.

The chandelier in the men's prayer hall is another point of interest to visitors. It is comprised mostly of gold plated metal work, and it also is covered in Swarovski crystals. The chandelier is over fourteen meters tall. In addition to its primary purpose as a house of worship, the Grand Mosque is also used as an epicenter of Islamic learning. It has built a reputation as a prominent institute of advanced Islamic studies, with educational facilities and housing accommodations available onsite. The primary form of Islam that is studied at the Grand Mosque is Ibadi. One of the most ancient sects of Islam, Ibadi is tolerant of many other religions and it shows respect towards women, elevating them even to the highest levels of government available. Because of this religious toleration, people of all faiths are welcome to worship at the Grand Mosque of Oman.

Mariyah is an online business woman, who writes fulltime. She loves to travel, and the country of Oman is close to her heart. You can read more about Oman at - http://omanstyle.com/ a site set up to help connect business owners in Oman with visitors to the country.

Mecca Masjid - A Pilgrimage

 Mecca Masjid is one of the oldest masjids in the city and easily the biggest. Muhammed Quli Qutub Shah began building it in 1617 under the supervision of Mir Faizullah Baig and Rangiah Choudhary. Mughal emperor Aurangzeb completed the construction in 1694. It took 77 years to come up as the magnificent edifice we see today. Like many other ancient buildings in the city, the mosque is a granite giant with awe-inspiring innards. The main hall of the mosque is 75 feet high, 220 feet wide and 180 feet long, big enough to accommodate ten thousand worshippers at a time.

Mecca masjid is just a hundred yards southwest of the historic Charminar. Between Muhammed Quli Qutub Shah and Aurangzeb, Abul Hasan Tana Shah of Golconda also continued the task launched by the Qutub Shahi kings. It is believed that Muhammed Quli commissioned bricks to be made from earth brought from Mecca and inducted them into the construction of the central arch of the mosque, which explains the name of the mosque.

Fifteen graceful arches support the roof of the main hall, five on each of the three sides. A sheer wall rises on the fourth side to provide mehrab. The three arched facades have been carved from a single piece of granite, which took five years to quarry. More than 8,000 masons and workers were employed to build this grand mosque. Mohammed Quli Qutub Shah himself laid the foundation stone of the mosque, when he failed to find one person who had never missed his prayers. The king seemed to be the only person who never missed on his prayers ever since he was 12 years of age.

 "It is about 50 years since they began to build a splendid pagoda in the town which will be the grandest in all India when it is completed. The size of the stone is the subject of special accomplishment, and that of a niche, which is its place for prayer, is an entire rock of such enormous size that they spent five years in quarrying it, and 500 to 600 men were employed continually on its work. It required still more time to roll it up on to conveyance by which they brought it to the pagoda; and they took 1400 oxen to draw it," says Tavernier in his travelogue.

As the tourist gets past the main gateway and enters a huge plaza, a large man-made pond of bluish waters greets him. On the edge of the pond are two stone and slab benches and whoever sits on them, according to legend, returns to sit on them again. A room in the courtyard is presumed to house the hair of prophet Mohammed. At the peak of the minarets flanking the masjid is an arched gallery and above that a smallish dome and a spire. Inscriptions from Quran adorn many of the arches and doors. The majesty of the façade of the grand mosque is somewhat obscured by huge walls of wire mesh erected to prevent pigeons from entering the prayer spaces and ruining them.

The main structure of the mosque is sandwiched between two massive octagonal columns hewn out of a single piece of granite. The cornices running around the entire mosque structure and the floral motifs and friezes over the arches remind the tourist of the great attention paid to detail in Qutb Shahi architecture. They have a close resemblance to the ones the tourist sees on the arches at Charminar and Golconda fort.

Though an overview of the masjid yields a picture of a massive rectangular granite monolith, closer scrutiny discloses the sculptural excellence of this axis of Muslim faith and of the parts that constitute its sum. If the tourist can deflect his gaze from the sheerness of the façade, everything from the cornices, the alcoves, the balconies to the parapets and the sundry, reveals an unparalleled aesthetic brilliance. Look at the cornice running on the four sides of the mosque, you will find 25 windows positioned between the consoles. These windows have awnings, not very different in their lineage from Hindu temple architecture.

On the four sides of the roof of the main mosque are ramparts made up of granite planks in the shape of inverted conches perched on pedestals. From the cornice of the mosque, its minarets are not as high as the minarets on the mazaar (Nizams' tombs) haven from their cornice. The octagonal columns have arched balconies on level with the roof of the mosque with an awning for a canopy above which the column continues upwards till it is crowned by a dome and spire.

On the four sides of the roof of the main mosque are ramparts made up of granite planks in the shape of inverted conches perched on pedestals. From the cornice of the mosque, its minarets are not as high as the minarets on the mazaar (Nizams' tombs) haven from their cornice. The octagonal columns have arched balconies on level with the roof of the mosque with an awning for a canopy above which the column continues upwards till it is crowned by a dome and spire.
As the tourist enters the great courtyard of the mosque, to his left he will find an exquisitely graceful, rectangular, arched and canopied building housing the marble graves of Asaf Jahi rulers from Nizam Ali Khan to Mehboob Ali Khan and their family. It is possible that this structure came up during the rule of the Asaf Jahs because it contains the tombs of the Nizams and their family. At both ends of this resting place for the Asaf Jahs and very much a part of it, are two rectangular blocks with four minarets each.

These minarets have elegant and circular balconies with low ornamental walls and arches. Above them is an octagonal inverted platter from which the rest of the minaret soars till it is arrested by a dome and a spire. This mazaar sanctuary is in reality a far greater specimen of architectural sophistication than the principal masjid and proclaims the artistic penchant of the Asaf Jahis.
The Mecca masjid is a listed heritage building crying for constant supervision and maintenance. Stains and patches can be seen disfiguring the exterior of this majestic structure and cracks are appearing in the octagonal columns. The mosque received a chemical wash in 1995. The tourist is also irritated by the growth of foliage in the crevices of the facade.

Great Mosque, Xian Trip

The Great Mosque may be hard to find but it is worth seeking out which by the way is half the fun in visiting it. It is one of the oldest and most renowned mosques in China.

Reasons to go there

It is a beautiful mosque. It is really well worth a sightseeing trip to see the Great Mosque, not only for its centuries-old history but also for its particular design of mixed architecture - traditional Muslim and Chinese styles. The architecture is amazing and the courtyards are very charming.

The mosque is located in a narrow alleyway that is filled with vendors selling souvenirs of all sorts. It is one of the most interesting sights in Xian.

Helpful Tips

The Great Mosque is the only open to visitors from 8 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Non-Muslims, however, are not admitted to the main prayer hall or during times of prayer.

I recommend to compare hotel prices very well in Xian.

How to get there

The Great Mosque of Xian is located near the Drum Tower (Gu Lou) on Huajue Lane. It is nestled between alleyways behind the Muslim Street. It usually takes some time to find it. But we found it without a guide, though.

Additional Infos

Occupying an area of over 12,000 square meters, the Great Mosque (also known as Grand Mosque) is divided into four courtyards, 250 meters long and 47 meters wide with a well-arranged layout. Landscaped with gardens, the further one strolls into its interior, the more serene one feels.

The Great Mosque was added to the UNESCO Islamic Heritage List in 1985.

Photos of the Great Mosque

We posted all our photos of the Great Mosque of Xian [http://www.findoutwheretogo.com/search.php?cat_id=45&search_keywords=xian%20AND%20grand_mosque]. Travel Xian! You will always remember your trip to Xian.

How to find a hotel in Xian

Prices vary a lot for the SAME hotel in Xian!

It is very important to compare different booking sites for a specific hotel to get a good hotel deal in Xian [http://hotels.findoutwheretogo.com/city/xian.htm].

Shah Jahan Mosque

 Mosque has always been a vital part in world's Islamic history, not only it is a place of worship, but also represents Mughal architecture and glory of that era. Our whole history speaks through the magnificent architecture of mosques built during Mughal period. Their massive vaults, embellished ceilings and corridors, glorified minarets, subtle motifs, ecstatic calligraphy all these add touch of grandeur and beauty to these adorable, mosques, amidst them is Shah Jahan Mosque, matchless in its beauty and magnificence.

This mosque, is made up of heavy brick structure with simple construction built upon a stone plinth, with big square pillars and gigantic walls, is centered on a courtyard 169' X 97'. The prayer hall is same in magnitude; both are enclosed by large domes. On the north and south two aisled galleries open by means of cloisters onto the courtyard. Ninety three domes cover the entire structure, and are probably the cause of a remarkable echo, which enables the prayers in front of the Mihrab to be heard in any part of the building. This mosque encloses the most detailed display of tile-work in the Indo-Pakistan sub-continent. The two main chambers, in particular, are entirely covered with them. Their domes have been exquisitely laid with a mosaic of glowing azure and white tiles. Stylish floral patterns, similar to the seventeenth century Kashi work of Iran, embellish the spandrel of the main arches and elsewhere geometrical designs on square tiles are disposed in a series of panels.

Architecturally matchless, the Jami mosque is distinct in its layout as well as its materials. This is the first mosque in the region to be erected, according to Mughal architectural pattern, quite different from other mosques in certain aspects, the edifice is extended along the east-west rather than the usual north-south axis. Instead of pink sandstone and marble mostly used in Mughal buildings, it is adorned with red bricks. The decision of using brick was made owing to practical concerns of cost and availability, since Thatta does not have much stone. The facade is festooned with glossy tiles.

 Mughal emperor Shah Jahan laid the foundation stone for this mosque to show gratitude towards the people of Thatta for giving him refuge during his youthful exile from Delhi at the hands of his father, Emperor Jahangir. Several Persian inscriptions are found dating the foundation of the mosque to 1644 and its completion to 1647. The floor was paved with stone in 1657. Renovation was done during the seventies by the Endowment (Awqaf) Department with an addition of orchard to the eastern side of mosque. For this new garden, a detached foyer was fabricated, defined by a triple arched formation that imitates the Mughal style of arches enclosed in rectangular frames, the central portion being projected higher than the other, built on axis with the main entrance to the mosque. The garden is an endeavor to imitate the four-quadrant charbagh technique, one walks through it to reach the mosque.

Other equally remarkable modifications and experiments with Mughal style are to be explored in this work. There is no minaret, instead of the classic three rounded domes; only one main dome in the prayer hall. Ablution pond is not located in the center of the courtyard, rather it is in a square courtyard located within the eastern portion of the mosque, could be accessed from an arched opening in the domed entrance chamber but now is reachable only from the passageway of the eastern part.

Shah Jahan mosque stands for the loftiness of Sindh's tile work. The influence of mosaic on tile work is seen in the ceiling adornment of semi domed and domed chambers; as well as in the fillings of interlaced arches; and at the panels at the level of squinches. The technique of soft glazed tile paneling had been in use since the Tarkhan period. Various shapes of tiles - square, rectangular and hexagonal - were manufactured and joined to complete a design in a given panel. The tile work is not related to imperial Mughal style but to the Timurid School. Various shades of blue on white, and some yellow or purple background produce a very soothing effect in the hot climate of Thatta.

The mammoth core entrance capped with, innermost vaulted chamber is approached through a rectangular vestibule. Mosque is structured along an open middle patio that measures 164' x 97'. Arcades of red brick arches highlighted with bands of white surround the square and present a conspicuous reflection. Main entrance, from the eastern portion and the secondary entrances are from the north and south portion. On the west side is the prayer hall housing the mihrab that determines the direction of prayer. The prayer hall three bays deep on either side of the central mihrab chamber. The other three sides are only two bays deep on either
The gleaming star pattern is the most important one that replaces the rosette of other buildings on Makli hills.

These stars mingle to make a floral pattern and when arranged in circles around an inner round motif (usually representative of a sunflower), they actually portray a starry sky with all the stars moving round the sun. This new concept reveals Mughal influence in the types of f arithmetical lines that enfolds these stars to make diverse patterns. An essential Thatta landmark, this mosque has been reinstated and renovated, as a conscious endeavor has been made in the process of tile reinstatement to preserve the original style. This mosque remains a major paradigm of colonial architectural form that is regionalized with the use of brick and tile work connected with Sindh. The enthralling site of this mosque beckons its visitors beyond all geographical boundaries; it's not only the reflection of days of yonder but also depicts the present day t scenario of tourism in Pakistan.

Badshahi Mosque

 The Badshahi Mosque or Emperor's Mosque was built in the year of 1673 by the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb in the city Lahore, Pakistan. Badshahi mosque is one of the largest mosques in the world. There is no doubt that the Aurangzeb was well-known for his piety, was fulfilling an urge in order to pay the most impressive tribute to God in the form of a grand Badshahi masjid; which was made after inspiring from the Jamia Mosques of Delhi and Agra. Mosque is even more massive than these mosques; it is Lahore's most famous landmark as well as major tourist attraction; epitomizing the grandeur and beauty of the Mughal era.

 Badshahi Mosque is capable of accommodating about 100,000 worshipers in its porticoes and courtyard, and a further 10,000 worshippers in its main prayer hall. The Mosque remained one of the largest mosques in the world from the year of 1673 to 1986; this was a period of about 313 years. Today, it is second largest mosque in Pakistan and in South Asia and fifth largest mosque in the world after the the Al-Masjid al-Nabawi in Medina, Masjid al-Haram of Mecca, the Hassan in Casablanca and Faisal Mosque in Islamabad.

The architecture of the Masjid slightly resembles with the Jama Mosque in Delhi, India. The steps leading to Main Prayer Hall of mosque and its floor are in variegated marble and the Main Prayer Hall is further divided into seven sections by using multi-foil arches which are supported on heavy piers, four sections are roofed with the flat domes. The interior of the Main Prayer Hall is embellished with inlaid marble, stucco tracery and fresco work.

Building a Mosque at Ground Zero

 Being mindful in his choice of words, President Obama stated that Muslims have the right to build a Mosque in order to practice their religious beliefs - even if the mosque is to be built near Ground Zero. Although Obama did not say if he thought this was a good idea, or even an appropriate one, according to a poll taken by Quinnipiac University 52% of New Yorkers are against it, 31% are in favor of it, and only 17% are undecided on the matter. According to the poll director, Maurice Carroll, New York is one of the most tolerant places in America yet most New Yorkers find this to be a bad idea and do not support it.

Whether or not this infringes on the rights of people to exercise the religion of their pleasing, it is easy to understand why some see this as a sign of disrespect and even mockery. However, there are two sides of this story that must be observed.

 The first idea that we should observe, and perhaps the one shared by those who are in favor of building the mosque, is that we should move on, honor those that lost their lives, and learn to live together in a peaceful world. The fact that a group of people committed such terrible crimes does not mean that everyone is like that. It's like saying that all Muslims are the same, when in fact we all know that nobody is ever the same.

The second idea is that Muslims should recognize that a terrorist group supposedly representing them killed almost 3,000 people in terrorist attacks. Should Muslims, especially those supporting the building of the Mosque in New York, realize that "yes, our people messed up" and for that reason they should be a little more considerate to those who lost loved ones in the attack?

Edgar is a writer for [http://www.smorgasbuzz.com/]. Smorgasbuzz.com is a blog in which people can express their feelings, ideas, and knowledge about social topics, technology, entertainment and current events. To post your thoughts about building a mosque at ground zero post your comments here [http://www.smorgasbuzz.com/current-events.html]

Verses of the Holy Quran About Peace

* Wishing peace is the way of greeting in Islam

The Muslims when they meet and part with each other say Assalam-o-Alaikum. It means peace be upon you. Consider the following two verses of Quran about the greetings of peace.

"Salâmun 'Alaikum (peace be upon you) for that you persevered in patience! Excellent indeed is the final home!" QuranAr-Rad [13:24]

And verily, there came Our Messengers to Ibrahim (Abraham) with glad tidings. They said: Salam (greetings or peace!) He answered, Salam (greetings or peace!) and he hastened to entertain them with a roasted calf. Quran Hud [11:69]

    * Peace is the ultimate reward in the hereafter

Allah Almighty has made heaven a home of the peace. In the first verse given below, it is explicitly mentioned that the people who do good deeds will be rewarded with peace. In the second verse given below Allah Almighty calls the heaven a home of peace!

"(It will be said to them): 'Enter therein (Paradise), in peace and security.' Quran Al-Hijr [15:46]

Allah calls to the Home of peace (i.e. Paradise, by accepting Allah's religion of Islamic Monotheism and by doing righteous good deeds and abstaining from polytheism and evil deeds) and guides whom He wills to a Straight Path. Quran Yunus [10:25]

    * Prophet Ibrahim (A.S) prayed for peace

All the Muslims know that Makkah is the city of peace. Few people know about the prayer of prophet Ibrahim (A.s) in this regard.

And (remember) when Ibrahim (Abraham) said: "O my Lord! Make this city (Makkah) one of peace and security, and keep me and my sons away from worshipping idols. Quran Ibrahim [14:35]

    * Prophet Noah (A.S) was also rewarded peace

The reward for Prophet Noah (A.S) was also peace.

It was said: "O Nûh (Noah)! Come down (from the ship) with peace from Us and blessings on you and on the people who are with you (and on some of their off spring), but (there will be other) people to whom We shall grant their pleasures (for a time), but in the end a painful torment will reach them from Us." Quran Hud [11:48]

    * Allah Almighty appreciates the one who strives to make peace

Some people say that Islam promotes violence. However if they read the three verses of the Quran given below, their perception might be changed.

But he who fears from a testator some unjust act or wrongdoing, and thereupon he makes peace between the parties concerned, there shall be no sin on him. Certainly, Allah is Oft Forgiving, Most Merciful.Quran Al-Baqara [2:182]

Say: "If there were on the earth, angels walking about in peace and security, We should certainly have sent down for them from the heaven an angel as a Messenger." Quran Al-Isra [17:95]

But if they incline to peace, you also incline to it, and (put your) trust in Allah. Verily, He is the All-Hearer, the All-Knower. Quran Al-Anfal [8:61]

If you want to read more Articles regarding to Islam and Quran you can find all here: Quran Recitation is an online Islamic School which offers Quran teaching services online. The school also teaches Quran Recitation and Quran Reading with Translation.

Female Rights in Islam

Certain female rights in Islam which can be discussed broadly are

   1. The right and duty to education: Islamic women have been provided with the right to gain education with equal stature of men. They can attend any school they wish or hall in Madarasaa some of which are specially started for the women or can seek education along with men in these madarasaa.
   2. Right to independent property: there are some issues related to this tight in some Islamic countries where Women are forbidden to have their independent property but this right was originally provided to all Islamic women considering their social position.
   3. The right to earn: earning money for family or for herself is a prime constituent of female rights in Islam. As when she can get education she can implement her education to get employed and to earn money.
   4. Right to Express and be Heard: Islam has provided equal right to women among men to express their views and the Prophets or maullavis are ordered to listen them before giving any verdict so the faulty will be prosecuted. This law has proved helpful in talaaq where both the parties are heard before giving any statement.
   5. Right to obtain divorce: females in Islam have given equal rights for getting divorce from their better halves on any moral grounds. Although this part is always dominated by the men but women have equal share or rights.
   6. Custody of children after divorce: she has granted to keep the children after divorce which is considered minor. Although if husband wish to keep children mutual understanding is necessary or the option of court case is open for both the parties.
   7. Right to keep her property; in case of divorce she is allowed to keep the property which is on her own name, not by any means husband has right to ask a share in the property unless she voluntarily agrees to part with some of the property.
   8. To refuse marriage: in most of the cases Islamic women have not left choices to refuse the marriage but female rights in Islam states that women can refuse or deny any marriage which she thinks is again her consent.
   9. Right of election and Political rights: any Islamic women can participate in any political parties, public affairs and rallies and can apply for nominations as well can propose her candidature for election.

Islam and Science

 Since the inception of the modern age, science and technologies had developed and innovated millions of things to change our living standards as it has always inspired our lives. From education to luxuries, science has played the significant role in improving our lives. Whereas, science had played a vital role in changing our views, thoughts and lives, Islam has also played its part. Today, many scientists and astrologers are of view that what ever was been said, taught and told about centuries ago by the Muslim's Prophets (PBUH) are now showing there presence through the big pictures in our new innovations.

Science has inspired our lives through the means of Education. It is the knowledge of putting one's potentials to maximum use. Islam has also paid the importance in acquiring and spreading the education. Seeking and delivering education through any means of resource's are emphasized both in Islamic and Scientific world. It is said that Education makes man a right thinker and also enable's man to receive information from the external world. Both of the quality significance has been taught and emphasized in Islam and Science as well.

Faith and believe on death after being birth into this materialistic world, exists in both Islam and Science. In both of the scenarios it is greatly emphasized that everyone has to leave this materialistic place. No one can ever claim to be existed forever. In medical science, death is the permanent and irreversible cessation of all vital functions. Islam defines death as a mandatory transitional event in between the 'life before death' and 'life after death'. So if we integrate the scientific aspect with the description, the definition of death for a Muslim would be the absolute disappearance of the functions for the time period in between the two lives.

 Science has created new innovations and has exceptionally changed our lives to a great extend. Science can provide evidence that will often provide satisfactory explanations for something's, but science can't disprove the existence of God/Allah or any other invisible force that makes plants, animals and children grow. They also now believe that everything in this world that a man has created is the innovation of its kind and can be seen and felt. But what about those things that men has not created or has no involvement whatsoever in those creation which do exist in this world, which can only be seen or felt but can't be sure as of who is the creator of those things like spinning of the world, gravity, physics, psychology and sociology, generation of new plantation, birth process of the new beings (Humans & Animals), solar systems and much more. These are the facts of consideration which demands the Non-Muslims or the scientist to think over this issue. This inspires their thoughts to believe the existence of God/Allah.

If the Islam's Empiricism would have failed, Science would have definitely and absolutely blocked its Ears. This is one of the truths, which now has been accepted by every mode or any grounds of the practices as it is the divine and ultimate truthful-authority.

There are several Social-Scientific topics such as human rights, equality, justice; rights of the women, educations are some of the discussable topics which are completely relevant and identical in the practices and teachings of Islam. What ever was been told by Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) or has been revealed by Allah Almighty in the form of Qu'ran are now been practiced in the today's world both either by Muslims or Non-Muslims.

Hijab - Islam & the West

 There is no uniform approach to terminology for Islamic dress. HIJAB is an Arabic word, originally referring to a curtain or partition, which later came to refer to Islamic dress in general, but is now commonly metonymically reduced to the headscarf.

In the recent years, Islamic dress has been emerged as abiding sites of the contention in the relationship between Muslim communities and the State. Specifically, the wearing of Islamic headscarves by women in public places has raised questions about secularism, women's rights and national identity. It has always been seen by the Western feminist as oppressive and as a symbol of a Muslim woman's subservience to men. As a result, it often comes as a surprise to Western feminists that the veil has become increasingly common in the Muslim world and is often worn proudly by college girls as a symbol of an Islamic identity, freeing them symbolically from neo-colonial Western cultural imperialism and domination. For well over two decades, Muslim women have been positioned in the Australian popular media in opposition to the values of liberal democracy and the feminist agenda. Muslim women, as if the act of "unveiling" will somehow bestow the "equality" and "freedoms" that Western women enjoy. While 'HIJAB debates' occur in various guises in France, the Netherlands, Germany, the UK and elsewhere, questions of gender, race and religion have a particular pertinence in Australia, where a combination of recent events has generated unprecedented public and scholarly attention on sexual violence, 'Masculinist protection', and ideas of the nation. It was against this historical backdrop that the Australian popular media developed an interest in the HIJAB-the traditional veil worn by some Muslim women. The first Gulf War in 1991 marked the beginning of the veiled symbolism in the Australian popular media.

 Recently FIFA said in a letter to the Iranian Football Federation that the Iranian women's team is not allowed to participate in the games in Singapore while wearing HIJAB, or head scarves.
FIFA says on its website that "the player's equipment must not carry any political, religious, or personal statements," and that "all items of clothing or equipment other than the basic must be inspected by the referee and determined not to be dangerous."

In 2007, an 11-year-old girl was not allowed to play in soccer game in Canada because she was wearing the HIJAB. The Quebec Soccer Association said the ban on the HIJAB is to protect children from being accidentally strangled. The secretary-general of Iran's National Olympic Committee has called on Muslim countries to protest the world soccer body's ban on head scarves for women during the Youth Olympic Games this summer.

On March 14, 2004, the French legislative council voted the ban on "religious symbols" in public schools. This uncommon law, which mainly targets Muslim young girls, was widely supported in France. After four years of the enactment of the law, one can hardly measure its consequences among the French Muslims. People still observe the case without real understanding.The French Muslims failed to build a unanimous strategy toward the crisis of hijab. They failed to make their voices heard through the media. The normal outcome was that their management of the crisis proved to be ineffective. Now, after four years of the enactment of the anti-hijab law, the situation appears to be the same.

The western media does not show the countless western women who have reverted to Islam, adopted the HIJAB, and are happy with it. Born, raised and educated in the west, they experienced freedom and spent life as they wanted. Then they studied Islam and reverted. What did Islam give them that they were missing? It filled the vacuum in their souls.

Should we listen to the western media or the western women who accept Islam after experiencing the so called freedom?

West think that the belt of freedom is held by them. NO. Islam is first to gave freedom to women. Islam gives women right to vote 1400 years ago, in America it is given in early 1900. Islam gives the right of property inheritance 1400 years ago, but in America laws for the inheritance are were rewritten in 1950's to give right of inheritance to women. How bad the status of women in west? We have given the rights 1400 years ago that the women of west dreams until this generation. It's amazing.

State has to make laws and we obey them, but they don't have the right to tell us what to wear and how to wear, this is our freedom. Veiling is not against west, veiling is against imperialism. There is a difference between west and imperialism. West is a culture and it's like a civilization just like any other culture or civilization. Imperialism is that when west tries to tell the world that we are the standard and everybody is ethnic. No, the west is as ethnic as Arab culture. HIJAB, scarf and covering body is also in other religions. Christianity also shows strength to wear it. Merry in the church wears scarf. Also in Hinduism ladies cover their body. If the nuns can wear the scarf then why the Muslim women is banned of wearing HIJAB?
We must show uniformity in our religion and culture. HIJAB is a mean source of perfection and achieving our goals. HIJAB is a choice for the women not a compulsion or oppression. It is on the will of the women not the by the enforcement of men. It's all by faith. It's what we are so there is no shame or hindrance to wear it. Covering is a sign of purity and dignity. A woman is not a sex object that she is turned out to be in the west. She is not an object of lust for every stranger. Just look at how the west treats women. Porn industries are thriving, filthy DVDs are sold everywhere, magazines of semi-nude women decorate even grocery stores, filthy magazines are sold even in corner stores, strip clubs are in abundance, and I can go on and on.
The west has left no stone unturned in shattering the dignity of a woman, and then they are ready to give lectures to others on how to treat women with dignity.

In your opinion, will the ban on hijab at French schools remain the same? How do you see the future of Muslims in France? How can they withstand the challenges they face in the French society?

Finally, why is the west so scared of the HIJAB? Is it a threat to their beauty and fashion industries or to their religion?

original link to article

[http://www.pakcolours.com/blog/hijab-islam-west/]

Writeen By

Mehran Hassan Khan Niazi

Islam: Religion of Peace and Love

"Say ye: 'we believe in God and the revelation given to us and to Abraham, Ismail, Isaac, Jacob, and the Tribes, and that given to Moses and Jesus, and that given to (all) Prophets from their Lord. We make no difference between one and another of them, and we bow to God.' "Chapter 2, Verse 136.

Weekly, I get many forwarded e-mails from fellow travelers who are very fearful, reading the headlines about Muslim extremists. These extremists are using their religious beliefs to justify deadly action against others of their own faith; and others who they have designated as non-believing or westerners. In America and across the world, this is a real, growing threat to the way we live and maintaining our personal freedoms. These Muslim extremists would tell us how to live, what to believe, and kill any who deviate from their view.

Sadly remember, this is the not the first time that religious belief has been used to justify action and war against others. History is full of examples and it is such a powerful tool and motivator, follow what God wants, that it is continues to be used today. Just read the Old Testament or follow the accounts of the Crusades; Jewish and Christian history is full of examples where deadly force was used to protect and further a cherished belief system. Today in this matter, there is little choice; all freedom loving people must stand their ground, raise their voice and fight against those who would take from us. It is clear that we are long past solving this problem only with words.

When I studied the Koran and reread it many, many times; I found no personal call to spread Islam throughout the non-believing world. To me the Koran was a timeless revelation, filled with love, hope, and the importance of fighting the inner Jihad. The inner Jihad being, perfecting your self and helping others reach higher. Many people over look historical context and timeliness of this Revelation; this religion and final Message was proclaimed at a time when the desert Arabs were exactly like the extremists of today. Taking, killing innocents and justifying their action with a philosophy of many Gods who supported their murderous activities. Then along comes a Redeemer, Mohammed who spreads the true message of love and surrender; calling all people throughout the world to change their ways and accept the higher call. In order to spread this new way of living, Mohammed takes-up arms, defeat his enemies and offers Islam to all people.

In the spreading of the new religion, throughout the Koran there are admonitions to leave those people alone who have accepted God and live a good life. Pointing out, that among the Christians and Jews there were those who loved God and they were to be left in peace. The Call to spread the faith- Islam- was to those who did not believe this way and benefited by hurting others; this was the original targeted group: Arabs of the desert who plundered and killed; taking what they wanted. Some Islamic scholars would argue the following quote simply means to leave this people alone, until God deals with them. However, we would argue the point God has accepted their faith and were not to be treated as non-believers.

Those who believe (in the Qur'an), those who follow the Jewish (scriptures), and the Sabians and the Christians, - any who believe in Allah and the Last Day, and work righteousness, - on them shall be no fear, nor shall they grieve. (5:69).

At the heart of any moral teaching is how to improve your self and become a better person; thereby making the world a little bit better. Since, the beginning, there have been those who have used religious belief to kill and take. These people have in fact become the enemy of their faith and if the Redeemer were alive today, the Prophet would be the first to call them out.

In this matter, one must keep an open mind. We in the West have for a very long time, joined with the takers in these Middle Eastern countries and have helped create some of the tremendous poverty and oppression. Over the years, our government has long supported dictators who would take from the people and sell it to the west at a bargain price. Now by the terrorists, we are painted as the enemy and in our destruction, Islam will triumph.

The worst of guardians is a cruel ruler. Beware of becoming one of them.
--- Prophet Muhammad (s) as reported in Sahih Muslim, Hadith 846.

In dealing with extremists, the Israeli's have long held: an eye for an eye and there can never be peace with those who wish to destroy them. Also, in maintaining military strength it minimizes fear and helps ensure survival.

Where do we go from here?

o It is time for moderate Arabs to speak out and condemn the actions of their extremist brothers; Muslim moderates must join in the fight against those who would harm and destroy in the name of their faith.

o The United States and other nations must help correct the poverty and lack of education that is the breeding ground for this extremist view point. People must have enough food and a future; then they can listen to reason.

"We believe that poverty does not belong in a civilized human society. It belongs in museums [...] A poverty-free world might not be perfect, but it would be the best approximation of the ideal."
--- Muhammad Yunus, 2006 Nobel Peace Prize Winner.

o Across the world, dictators and governments cannot be tolerated who will take from the people and spread death and destruction. All nations must step-up and fight this oppression.

o There must be a world wide acknowledgement and education that Islam is a religion of peace and love; while it calls all people to submit to God, people must remain free to make their own choice. Religion cannot be forced upon anyone and people must be free to live their life.

Let there be no compulsion in religion. (2:256).

o Each person should become familiar with the teachings of the Koran and other world religions. Discussions must be publicly held where these faiths are examined for their common beliefs; so we may again join together as one family.

o Clearly, there must be dialog about the difference between using a belief system as a cover for harmful activity, and what the belief system actually says and purports to do. Religious beliefs do not kill people; people, their personal agendas and weapons do the killing. To kill in the Name of God, is a personal choice people make.

They are the losers, those who make the religion hard and tough. They imperil themselves who enforce tough practices of Islam. They destroy themselves, those who are extremes.
--- Prophet Muhammad (s) as reported by Ibn Masud in Sahih Muslim

Women in Islam

 Women in Islam don't get the same treatment as their western counterparts do and Islam's treatment of women has been a subject of immense controversy of late. Some feel that Islam's treatment of women is not really unfair or even that its the correct way to treat women (I've even heard a Muslim woman say that she wears the Hijab/Burqa to in fact protect men because obviously men are powerless against a woman's beauty) while others agree that Islam does treat women unfairly sometimes even inhumanly but they hold the Koran and the 'fundamentals of Islam' responsible for this. My belief is that yes women are treated unfairly in Islam but the reason for that is not the teachings of the Koran or even brainwashing by the Muslim clergy. It is in fact the conformist and gang mentality that permeates Islamic society today, more on this later. There are several verses in Islam where women are observed as being as lesser creatures than men for example: "men are in charge of women because Allah has made one of them (men) to excel the other (women), thus man's superiority over women... good women are the obedient ones... admonish the rebellious women and banish them, and scourge them (whip them severely to inflict pain) (4:34) OR Your women are your fields, so go into your fields whichever way you like.... (MAS Abdel Haleem, The Qur'an, Oxford UP, 2004) both of the above passages implying without ambiguity that Men are to be the masters of women and women are to be their slaves meant just for procreation and physical arousal. There are also passages where the Qur'an prescribes punishment for women who have strayed: If you fear highhandedness from your wives, remind them [of the teaching of God], then ignore them when you go to bed, then hit them. If they obey you, you have no right to act against them. God is most high and great. (Haleem, emphasis added).

 On a side not, the people who say that these verses don't really say what they seem to say to everybody can be ignored as the Idiots they really are. These are the people who will say such lines as 'Islam is in fact a religion of peace" when clearly it isn't; verses like these amply make obvious this: "Whoever changes his Islamic religion, kill him." (Hadith Al Buhkari vol. 9:57) Or Sura 5:51: OR "O you who believe! Take not the Jews and the Christians for your friends and protectors: they are but friends and protectors to each other. And he among you that turns to them for friendship is of them." This friendship makes any Muslim an enemy of their own and deserving of the same fate as the unbeliever. This is because God does not guide an unjust people." This advises Muslims to be untrustworthy of Christians and Jews and to hate them. I hasten to add it was in fact similar sort of messages coming from the Church back in the day that made a lot of Christians go crusading. But I'll admit Christian society does not seem to be in a mood to go on crusades for a long time the way things are as of today.

Coming back to Islam, what perplexes me is that even though other major religions like Christianity infer lesser status on women, most Christian societies around the world don't dole out an unequal status to women today. In fact there some who joke laws have now become unfair to men and men are the new women.

But why do the western and other societies don't and Islamic societies do treat women unjustly? As this article about Islam's treatment of women points out, why demean women by saying that their testimony is half as worthy as a man's in court? Why does she (the daughter of a Muslim) inherit only half as much as a son? Why does Islam accept polygamy but then not accept polyandry? Why have Muslim Generals in the past sent 15000 rape victims to jail while freeing their rapists saying they ( the women who were raped) provoked the rapes in some way and charging them with fornication? Why have Muslim women been stoned to death for showing their faces? Why are so many Muslim women still kept covered from head to toe day and night? Why do Muslim women have virtually no political rights in half of the Islamic states?

The reason for all this is not the 'wrong interpretation of Islam' as so called Secularists and some Muslims would want us to believe. When billions of people interpret something the same way then there is no doubt as to the meaning of it. No the wrong interpretation of Islam is not the reason. The reason for all of this is simply the dogmatic and fanatic belief in the rhetoric that permeates the religion of Islam. Most people in the world today would laugh if you tried to say to them that when you have to wipe yourself with pebbles (after answering the call of nature) you must make use of an odd number and when you perform ablution you must snuff in his nose water and then clean it OR that the devil resides in your nose while you sleep. This does not mean that we're all Atheists, while many of us are repulsed by aspects of organized religion, we will believe in some form of a higher power that keeps watch over us.

In the case of Muslims however, you are met with militant opposition and threats of death even if you so much as murmur a disagreement with any tenets of Islam and publish it in a book. They react not unlike some college or even jail gangs who like criticism be it from within or from outside. No other society in the world does that. If you take a look at the recent death of Pakistani Politician Salman Taseer who spoke out against the draconian blasphemy laws of Pakistan as per which a Christian woman has been given the death penalty and what followed after his death, you'll see a glimpse of the true reason Muslims still soldier on with their barbaric beliefs of which their treatment to women is no small part. Salman Taseer was killed by one of his bodyguards Malik Mumtaz Qadri who shot him 26 times. What followed the killing was even more tragic, the extremists in Pakistan hailed the assassin as a hero while the so called 'moderate' and 'the elite' sections of society refused to condemn the killing or to speak out against the hailing of Qadri as a hero. This demonstrated the unwillingness and maybe even the incapability of an Islamic society to recognize something as being wrong which by all means is wrong for example, the Blasphemy laws of Pakistan. This is the reason Muslims it seems will never find the will to change their behavior. As I pointed out at the start of this post, most religions do have failings but in the west and even in many eastern religions, people are willing to joke about these things and recognize them as being wrong while in Islamic society anything mildly against Islam or its ways makes you the villain and the whole gang turns against you. Looking at this, it seems that their deplorable treatment to women will continue on for some time.