This article was first published in Sail e-Magazine May 2011 issue
http://sailemagazine.com/?p=1064
If you are a UAE national or an expatriate resident of the UAE, you must be very familiar with the term Emiratization, a topic that has received a great deal of positive hype in the media ever since its inception. Never specifically defined, Emiratization is generally any initiative by organizations (both public and private) to employ, develop, and retain Emirati employees.
Over the years, Emiratization has manifested itself in companies in the form of diploma programs, intensive classrooms, and on-the-job training for the “fresh-graduate” employees that are “fit” to be placed in the work field. In addition, some Emiratization programs have also secured entry-level positions for Emiratis giving them exclusivity and priority over non-nationals.
So you must be thinking, why does the title here say “detrimental”? Although Emiratization may have been very helpful to some fresh graduates and new employees, it has had the opposite effect on young Emirati professionals and middle managers, specifically those who have undergone the highest standards of education as well as gained foreign and local experiences. Below are some of my observations with regards to this matter.
First, for organizations to establish these development programs, enormous efforts and significant monetary investments had to be made. Some of these efforts include making the commercial case, developing processes, allocating space, and much more. As a result, like any private educational institution, a minimum number of Emirati enrollees has to be met to prove the success of these programs. Keep in mind that in most cases, the same people who devise these programs are the people who hire Emiratis. Therefore, many talented and experienced Emiratis, who are qualified to join at more senior levels, get placed in entry-level positions.
Second, having exclusivity of entry-level positions for Emiratis causes Emiratis to remain in their positions for longer periods of time without any clear progression. This is mainly due to the fact that higher employee positions are filled with expatriates to introduce diversity and experience into the team. In many cases, these expatriates are less qualified and less experienced! Then why does this happen? With a high paced work environment and a shortage of skilled employees in the region, it is incumbent to hire an expatriate workforce. However, due to Emiratization, the organization has no choice but to employ them at higher levels, which sometimes comes at the expense of qualified and experienced Emiratis.
Third, I believe that all of the above causes Emiratis in organizations to be viewed as “special” cases that require “special” attention. The entire nature of the programs creates a perception that Emiratis are not qualified and cannot be trusted with real tasks. Qualified and talented Emiratis are then given trivial administrative tasks and deprived from responsibility they deserve in building their own nation. This in turn can lead to severe demotivation and as a result a lack of performance from Emirati employees.
Last but not least, I believe that with the current educational infrastructure and foreign exposure of Emiratis, Emiratization programs should cease to exist in their present nature and Emiratis should be given the opportunity to compete side by side with expatriate talent. However, Emiratization can take an alternate form. For example, Emiratis who feel they require enrolling in training programs should have the option to do so in the areas of their choice.
In summary, although I may have used extreme examples and generalizations to prove some points, I believe that Emiratization has proven to be detrimental for young, qualified, and talented Emiratis. Not only has it slowed their career progression through lengthy training programs and grounding in entry level positions but also it has led to severe demotivation. I believe this can be reversed by allowing Emiratis to compete with expatriates equally and giving them the option to enroll in development/training programs should they deem it necessary. This would not only save organizations millions of Dirhams annually but also create a more competitive, collaborative, and productive workforce.
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Manners? What Manners?!
This article appeared in my column "To the Point" in Sail e-Magazine April 2011 Issue
http://sailemagazine.com/?p=975
On a recent rafting excursion in Nepal, my friend and I met two flight attendants who had remembered us from our flight the day before. What surprised me though is that the reason they remembered us is because we were of the few UAE Nationals they had met who actually said “please” and “thank you”.
Although this did not come as a surprise, it did however stir resentment, given that the region was known for its hospitality and good conduct. I could not help but think why is it that we have lost our good manners and esteemed moral conduct. Is it because of a language barrier or is it simply a result of negligence and lack of importance?
Why does it matter? Well, manners are the set of guidelines that determine the methodology of communication. They are usually the first line of interaction and consequently the first base of judgment on individuals as well as societies. Through manners a society’s dynamics are greatly affected. For example, politeness and tolerance can harvest creativity, whereas rudeness and disrespect can bring out negativity. In addition, relationships, whether between companies or people, are also governed by manners. Families are built on relationships and societies are built on families. Therefore, manners, to an extent, could influence a country’s success or failure.
After a lot of observation and understanding the driving forces of the UAE’s society, I came to the conclusion that good manners may have slowly eroded due to a lack of emphasis by members of the society. However, I believe that they can be restored if the following 3 dimensions are properly understood.
First of all, it must be known that good manners and moral conduct are from Islam’s main objectives for mankind.
“And indeed, you are upon a noble conduct, an exemplary manner” -The Holy Quran (68:4)
“I have been sent to perfect righteous and honorable manners (noble virtues)” -The Prophet Muhammad (Al Bukhari, Al-Adab Al-Mufrad, No.273)
Islam has supported good manners as well as pleasant qualities and described those who are characterized by them as being of the highest caliber of believers. Islam has reiterated, in multiple divine commands, the use of ease and politeness in preaching, acts of kindness towards the young, and respect towards elders. It has also promoted uttering the truth, showing appreciation, serving a neighbor, and even simply smiling at a fellow citizen.
“The best among you are those who have the best manners and character” -The Prophet Muhammad (Sahih Bukhari, Volume 8, Book 73, Number 56)
Not only has Islam encouraged good character and manners but it has also condemned the opposite (rude and immoral behavior). It has prohibited cursing and foul language, cheating, hypocrisy, backbiting, acting in anger, lying, and causing any form of inconvenience to a fellow citizen.
“ Those who avoid vain talk” (speaking of traits of the believers) -The Holy Quran (23:3)
“… And surely Allah hates one who utters foul or coarse language.” -The Prophet Muhammad [Tirmidhi]
Second, being characterized by good manners and noble virtues should be seen as a social responsibility and duty towards the nation and the religion. The UAE has over 202 nationalities living and working in different sectors that make up above 80% of the nation’s population. This consequently makes every UAE national an ambassador to his/her culture and nation. Given the high level of Emiratis’ patriotism, it is important that the effect of bad manners on people’s perceptions of them and their country is vividly understood. I believe that this will instill a sense of representation that will drive people to better conduct and nobler virtues.
Last but not least, I trust that none of the above can be achieved if it is not supported at a family level. Many good traits and noble virtues are engrossed in one’s character at a personality development stage in one’s life (usually early years and upbringing). At this stage, an individual’s observations can influence his/her values and as a result their manners. Parents should be mindful of how their conduct is portrayed. In other words, parents should lead by example and take a proactive approach in shaping their children’s moral awareness.
Although there are many variables that can affect the manners of an individual from the region, I believe the main reason for the absence of good manners is a lack of importance and interest towards a proactive approach. However, with understanding the Islamic significance of good manners, viewing it as a social responsibility, and making sure it is carefully taught to our children, there may be hope to bring back what once made us the best of nations.
“….Verily never will Allah change the condition of a people until they change it themselves…” -The Holy Quran (13:11)
http://sailemagazine.com/?p=975
On a recent rafting excursion in Nepal, my friend and I met two flight attendants who had remembered us from our flight the day before. What surprised me though is that the reason they remembered us is because we were of the few UAE Nationals they had met who actually said “please” and “thank you”.
Although this did not come as a surprise, it did however stir resentment, given that the region was known for its hospitality and good conduct. I could not help but think why is it that we have lost our good manners and esteemed moral conduct. Is it because of a language barrier or is it simply a result of negligence and lack of importance?
Why does it matter? Well, manners are the set of guidelines that determine the methodology of communication. They are usually the first line of interaction and consequently the first base of judgment on individuals as well as societies. Through manners a society’s dynamics are greatly affected. For example, politeness and tolerance can harvest creativity, whereas rudeness and disrespect can bring out negativity. In addition, relationships, whether between companies or people, are also governed by manners. Families are built on relationships and societies are built on families. Therefore, manners, to an extent, could influence a country’s success or failure.
After a lot of observation and understanding the driving forces of the UAE’s society, I came to the conclusion that good manners may have slowly eroded due to a lack of emphasis by members of the society. However, I believe that they can be restored if the following 3 dimensions are properly understood.
First of all, it must be known that good manners and moral conduct are from Islam’s main objectives for mankind.
“And indeed, you are upon a noble conduct, an exemplary manner” -The Holy Quran (68:4)
“I have been sent to perfect righteous and honorable manners (noble virtues)” -The Prophet Muhammad (Al Bukhari, Al-Adab Al-Mufrad, No.273)
Islam has supported good manners as well as pleasant qualities and described those who are characterized by them as being of the highest caliber of believers. Islam has reiterated, in multiple divine commands, the use of ease and politeness in preaching, acts of kindness towards the young, and respect towards elders. It has also promoted uttering the truth, showing appreciation, serving a neighbor, and even simply smiling at a fellow citizen.
“The best among you are those who have the best manners and character” -The Prophet Muhammad (Sahih Bukhari, Volume 8, Book 73, Number 56)
Not only has Islam encouraged good character and manners but it has also condemned the opposite (rude and immoral behavior). It has prohibited cursing and foul language, cheating, hypocrisy, backbiting, acting in anger, lying, and causing any form of inconvenience to a fellow citizen.
“ Those who avoid vain talk” (speaking of traits of the believers) -The Holy Quran (23:3)
“… And surely Allah hates one who utters foul or coarse language.” -The Prophet Muhammad [Tirmidhi]
Second, being characterized by good manners and noble virtues should be seen as a social responsibility and duty towards the nation and the religion. The UAE has over 202 nationalities living and working in different sectors that make up above 80% of the nation’s population. This consequently makes every UAE national an ambassador to his/her culture and nation. Given the high level of Emiratis’ patriotism, it is important that the effect of bad manners on people’s perceptions of them and their country is vividly understood. I believe that this will instill a sense of representation that will drive people to better conduct and nobler virtues.
Last but not least, I trust that none of the above can be achieved if it is not supported at a family level. Many good traits and noble virtues are engrossed in one’s character at a personality development stage in one’s life (usually early years and upbringing). At this stage, an individual’s observations can influence his/her values and as a result their manners. Parents should be mindful of how their conduct is portrayed. In other words, parents should lead by example and take a proactive approach in shaping their children’s moral awareness.
Although there are many variables that can affect the manners of an individual from the region, I believe the main reason for the absence of good manners is a lack of importance and interest towards a proactive approach. However, with understanding the Islamic significance of good manners, viewing it as a social responsibility, and making sure it is carefully taught to our children, there may be hope to bring back what once made us the best of nations.
“….Verily never will Allah change the condition of a people until they change it themselves…” -The Holy Quran (13:11)
Aligning Interests in the UAE’s Diverse Environment
This article appeared in my column "To the Point" in Sail e-Magazine March 2011 Issue
http://sailemagazine.com/?p=872
Watching a promotional video about Dubai in an Emirates Airlines flight gave me goose bumps to say the least. From breathtaking views of the modern skyline of Dubai to smiling faces portraying traditional hospitality as well as diversity, the message was impactful. To the outside world, the UAE is a place where diverse people from all parts of the globe work together efficiently. The UAE’s success in establishing a robust infrastructure, foreign direct investment, tolerance of different religions, and diverse demographical population, are used as evidences of that very statement. In addition, promotional videos, written media, and global forums repeatedly portray that this diversity acts collectively towards the shared goal of the country’s progress
While this statement may be true in many cases, the UAE also faces a unique challenge in achieving certain objectives due to its diverse nature. The latter may often lead to an inability to act as a single body towards shared goals; this has created a level of inefficiency that comes at a significant price. In reality, records have showed that the UAE has witnessed a great amount of inefficiency in processes, decisions, and as a result in growth. This is realized on a daily basis by entrepreneurs, employees, policy makers, as well as social servants.
Whether it be different nationalities, organizations, or contracted parties working together, there will always be some factors contributing to the resistance of each party to work with the other. Some examples of the inefficiency that has negatively impacted progress in the UAE include lost revenue from licensing delays, brand weakening due to inappropriate customer care, and disregard for local processes and customs. Although the list can continue forever, what is important to focus on is transforming these inefficiencies to productivity and managing the UAE’s diversity wisely. In my opinion, the inefficiency in businesses may be caused by the country’s diversity and it can be addressed through aligning the interests of all involved parties. In order to do so, 3 factors need to be met:
First, there needs to be a clear goal defined by the parties working together and roles should be explicitly defined. When the goal is unclear, the sense of creating value is lost. In a diverse environment, this lack of clarity and absence of a common drive can create different perceptions of what the end result should be. Therefore, having a shared clear goal and explicitly defining roles can significantly transform inefficiency to productivity.
Second, after the goal has been established and clearly defined, there needs to be clear incentives that motivate individuals to work towards the goal. These incentives can be pertaining to personal beliefs or preferences or the incentives can be financial. I recently witnessed this when working with the health authorities to establish a medical center in the UAE. At first, the employees I was interacting with were unwilling to cooperate with me. However, after I highlighted the projects’ benefits to the nation and as a result to their families and friends, I had their full commitment. Furthermore, financial incentives can also be a good way to ensure compliance and timeliness. For example, if licensing authorities or government entities were responsible to reimburse companies for the lost revenue caused by delays, the situation would be very different. Having such fair incentives or disincentives helps align diverse environments’ interests hence transforming inefficiency to productivity.
Last but not least, there needs to be recognition. This is often forgotten about by most corporations or individuals trying to achieve team work. The effort put in by each individual needs to be appreciated and the appreciation needs to be shown. This factor is especially valid in diverse environments where Fair appreciation needs to be maintained to avoid the perception of prejudice. Appreciation can be expressed in the form of a simple thank you or tokens such as gifts, promotions, etc. It is crucial to maintain a standard level of recognition. The existence of such a system may ensure the maintenance of productivity.
Although the UAE is a place of opportunity that attracts people from all around the world to its fruitful environment, we have witnessed that the diversity could also be a serious cause of the expressed above inefficiency. We can choose to either live with this inefficiency and proceed or strive to improve to produce even greater results that will benefit not only companies but also the society and the nation. In order to improve, I believe this inefficiency can be transformed to productivity through aligning interests by clearly defining the goal, placing the correct incentive schemes, and recognizing efforts.
http://sailemagazine.com/?p=872
Watching a promotional video about Dubai in an Emirates Airlines flight gave me goose bumps to say the least. From breathtaking views of the modern skyline of Dubai to smiling faces portraying traditional hospitality as well as diversity, the message was impactful. To the outside world, the UAE is a place where diverse people from all parts of the globe work together efficiently. The UAE’s success in establishing a robust infrastructure, foreign direct investment, tolerance of different religions, and diverse demographical population, are used as evidences of that very statement. In addition, promotional videos, written media, and global forums repeatedly portray that this diversity acts collectively towards the shared goal of the country’s progress
While this statement may be true in many cases, the UAE also faces a unique challenge in achieving certain objectives due to its diverse nature. The latter may often lead to an inability to act as a single body towards shared goals; this has created a level of inefficiency that comes at a significant price. In reality, records have showed that the UAE has witnessed a great amount of inefficiency in processes, decisions, and as a result in growth. This is realized on a daily basis by entrepreneurs, employees, policy makers, as well as social servants.
Whether it be different nationalities, organizations, or contracted parties working together, there will always be some factors contributing to the resistance of each party to work with the other. Some examples of the inefficiency that has negatively impacted progress in the UAE include lost revenue from licensing delays, brand weakening due to inappropriate customer care, and disregard for local processes and customs. Although the list can continue forever, what is important to focus on is transforming these inefficiencies to productivity and managing the UAE’s diversity wisely. In my opinion, the inefficiency in businesses may be caused by the country’s diversity and it can be addressed through aligning the interests of all involved parties. In order to do so, 3 factors need to be met:
First, there needs to be a clear goal defined by the parties working together and roles should be explicitly defined. When the goal is unclear, the sense of creating value is lost. In a diverse environment, this lack of clarity and absence of a common drive can create different perceptions of what the end result should be. Therefore, having a shared clear goal and explicitly defining roles can significantly transform inefficiency to productivity.
Second, after the goal has been established and clearly defined, there needs to be clear incentives that motivate individuals to work towards the goal. These incentives can be pertaining to personal beliefs or preferences or the incentives can be financial. I recently witnessed this when working with the health authorities to establish a medical center in the UAE. At first, the employees I was interacting with were unwilling to cooperate with me. However, after I highlighted the projects’ benefits to the nation and as a result to their families and friends, I had their full commitment. Furthermore, financial incentives can also be a good way to ensure compliance and timeliness. For example, if licensing authorities or government entities were responsible to reimburse companies for the lost revenue caused by delays, the situation would be very different. Having such fair incentives or disincentives helps align diverse environments’ interests hence transforming inefficiency to productivity.
Last but not least, there needs to be recognition. This is often forgotten about by most corporations or individuals trying to achieve team work. The effort put in by each individual needs to be appreciated and the appreciation needs to be shown. This factor is especially valid in diverse environments where Fair appreciation needs to be maintained to avoid the perception of prejudice. Appreciation can be expressed in the form of a simple thank you or tokens such as gifts, promotions, etc. It is crucial to maintain a standard level of recognition. The existence of such a system may ensure the maintenance of productivity.
Although the UAE is a place of opportunity that attracts people from all around the world to its fruitful environment, we have witnessed that the diversity could also be a serious cause of the expressed above inefficiency. We can choose to either live with this inefficiency and proceed or strive to improve to produce even greater results that will benefit not only companies but also the society and the nation. In order to improve, I believe this inefficiency can be transformed to productivity through aligning interests by clearly defining the goal, placing the correct incentive schemes, and recognizing efforts.
Saturday, February 5, 2011
Tribalism, Marriage, & Socierty
This article appeared in my column "To the Point" in Sail e-Magazine February 2011 Edition
http://t.co/yRF8r3X
One of the most interesting features of the countries that are located along the coast of the Arabian Gulf, also knows as the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, is that they share the same language and religion. This similarity serves as a wonderful foundation for cooperation in various aspects of life, be it at a socio-political level or at an individual level. However, the discovery of oil and the drastic shift in people’s lifestyles due to the sudden emergence of wealth, I believe, led to a shift in people’s mentalities. Rather than focusing on things that united the region as people, factors that differentiate the region were actively sought in an effort to create artificial ranks that satisfy each subgroup’s ego. These ranks are numerous and range from boasting ethnic backgrounds and tribal descent to financial status and even skin color.
The importance of a united society has been recognized since the early days of Islam which emerged in Arabia during a time of severe segregation. Islam united the different sub-groups of people (tribes, ranks, gender, etc) under the flag of monotheism.
“ And hold fast, all together, by the rope which Allah (stretches out for you), and be not divided among yourselves; and remember with gratitude Allah’s favor on you; for ye were enemies and He joined your hearts in love, so that by His Grace, ye became brethren ,,,”
-The Holy Quran (3: 103)
Although the “post-oil segregation” in society has manifested itself in many forms, I believe the strongest impact has been on marriage which is the building block of any society. The introduction of tribalism in marriage (making the pre-requisite for marriage to be an individual of a similar tribal descent or ethnic background) has had the largest impact in segregating people in a region that shares both a language and a religion.
First, the mere disqualification of a potential candidate for marriage due to his/her tribal descent creates subgroups in society. Each subgroup begins to believe in the superiority of their tribe against the other. This disqualification leads to negative sentiment in society towards members of different tribal or ethnic backgrounds. The upbringing of children in this segregation leads to the formation of tribally prejudiced mentalities in the long run and affects the way a society functions. An example of this in modern day within the GCC countries can be witnessed in certain companies that are dominated by employees of a particular tribe. In essence, this creates opportunities for one tribe and bars them from another.
The Prophet Mohammed uttered to Abu Dharr who had called a man “O son of a black woman”: “O Abu Dharr, you are a man who still has Pre-Islamic Ignorance (Jahiliyya)”
– The Prophet Mohammed (Sahih Muslim: Book of Oaths: 4092)
Second, tribalism in society has led to marriage for incorrect reasons. Marriage, as deemed sacred by religion, always had pre-requisites for approval. Things such as a person’s character, religious commitment, and financial capacity would be examined traditionally in order for marriages to proceed. These factors would ensure the security of a person’s son/daughter and the establishment of a family based on principles that would allow for greater benefit of the society. Unfortunately, with tribalism and ethnic profiling, people began focusing entirely on a person’s tribal background. Due to this, families started turning a blind eye towards any flaws in an individual’s characteristics and religious commitment. A person characterized by domestic abuse and alcoholism suddenly began to have more value than a person who was hard-working and God fearing solely for the reasons of his/her ethnic or tribal background.
“….Choose the one who is religiously-committed, may you prosper”
– The Prophet Mohammed (Sahih al-Bukhaari: Book of Marriage: 27)
Last but not least, the above mentioned points, in their illogical and irrational nature, have in many cases led to unhappy marriages, cheating spouses, broken homes, and high divorce rates. Given the nature of the family as the building block of society, any impact on marriage can lead to much greater social phenomena such as unemployment, injustice, terrorism, and oppression of women. All factors that lead to the loss of a society’s integrity and the loss of a society’s value universally.
“If there comes to you a man whose religious commitment and character you approve of, then [give your daughter’s hand to him] in marriage, and if you don’t there will be tribulations in the land and great corruption.”
– The Prophet Mohammed (Sunan Al-Tirmidhi: 1090-1091)
Although a very complex topic and many extreme examples, I hope it is clear from the above that tribalism is a trait of pre-Islamic ignorance and that its impact on marriage and society as a whole is detrimental. Society, wealth, and peer pressure in the GCC countries have begun to alter decisions and introduce characteristics that are not Islamic nor have any basis in the native culture. Wouldn’t it be great if authentic principles were adhered to and segregation was abolished? Wouldn’t it be beneficial if society’s demands were disregarded and Divine demands considered? These decisions are for the region’s inhabitants to make.
“….Be ye not afraid of them, but fear Me, if ye have Faith.”
-The Holy Quran (3: 175)
http://t.co/yRF8r3X
One of the most interesting features of the countries that are located along the coast of the Arabian Gulf, also knows as the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, is that they share the same language and religion. This similarity serves as a wonderful foundation for cooperation in various aspects of life, be it at a socio-political level or at an individual level. However, the discovery of oil and the drastic shift in people’s lifestyles due to the sudden emergence of wealth, I believe, led to a shift in people’s mentalities. Rather than focusing on things that united the region as people, factors that differentiate the region were actively sought in an effort to create artificial ranks that satisfy each subgroup’s ego. These ranks are numerous and range from boasting ethnic backgrounds and tribal descent to financial status and even skin color.
The importance of a united society has been recognized since the early days of Islam which emerged in Arabia during a time of severe segregation. Islam united the different sub-groups of people (tribes, ranks, gender, etc) under the flag of monotheism.
“ And hold fast, all together, by the rope which Allah (stretches out for you), and be not divided among yourselves; and remember with gratitude Allah’s favor on you; for ye were enemies and He joined your hearts in love, so that by His Grace, ye became brethren ,,,”
-The Holy Quran (3: 103)
Although the “post-oil segregation” in society has manifested itself in many forms, I believe the strongest impact has been on marriage which is the building block of any society. The introduction of tribalism in marriage (making the pre-requisite for marriage to be an individual of a similar tribal descent or ethnic background) has had the largest impact in segregating people in a region that shares both a language and a religion.
First, the mere disqualification of a potential candidate for marriage due to his/her tribal descent creates subgroups in society. Each subgroup begins to believe in the superiority of their tribe against the other. This disqualification leads to negative sentiment in society towards members of different tribal or ethnic backgrounds. The upbringing of children in this segregation leads to the formation of tribally prejudiced mentalities in the long run and affects the way a society functions. An example of this in modern day within the GCC countries can be witnessed in certain companies that are dominated by employees of a particular tribe. In essence, this creates opportunities for one tribe and bars them from another.
The Prophet Mohammed uttered to Abu Dharr who had called a man “O son of a black woman”: “O Abu Dharr, you are a man who still has Pre-Islamic Ignorance (Jahiliyya)”
– The Prophet Mohammed (Sahih Muslim: Book of Oaths: 4092)
Second, tribalism in society has led to marriage for incorrect reasons. Marriage, as deemed sacred by religion, always had pre-requisites for approval. Things such as a person’s character, religious commitment, and financial capacity would be examined traditionally in order for marriages to proceed. These factors would ensure the security of a person’s son/daughter and the establishment of a family based on principles that would allow for greater benefit of the society. Unfortunately, with tribalism and ethnic profiling, people began focusing entirely on a person’s tribal background. Due to this, families started turning a blind eye towards any flaws in an individual’s characteristics and religious commitment. A person characterized by domestic abuse and alcoholism suddenly began to have more value than a person who was hard-working and God fearing solely for the reasons of his/her ethnic or tribal background.
“….Choose the one who is religiously-committed, may you prosper”
– The Prophet Mohammed (Sahih al-Bukhaari: Book of Marriage: 27)
Last but not least, the above mentioned points, in their illogical and irrational nature, have in many cases led to unhappy marriages, cheating spouses, broken homes, and high divorce rates. Given the nature of the family as the building block of society, any impact on marriage can lead to much greater social phenomena such as unemployment, injustice, terrorism, and oppression of women. All factors that lead to the loss of a society’s integrity and the loss of a society’s value universally.
“If there comes to you a man whose religious commitment and character you approve of, then [give your daughter’s hand to him] in marriage, and if you don’t there will be tribulations in the land and great corruption.”
– The Prophet Mohammed (Sunan Al-Tirmidhi: 1090-1091)
Although a very complex topic and many extreme examples, I hope it is clear from the above that tribalism is a trait of pre-Islamic ignorance and that its impact on marriage and society as a whole is detrimental. Society, wealth, and peer pressure in the GCC countries have begun to alter decisions and introduce characteristics that are not Islamic nor have any basis in the native culture. Wouldn’t it be great if authentic principles were adhered to and segregation was abolished? Wouldn’t it be beneficial if society’s demands were disregarded and Divine demands considered? These decisions are for the region’s inhabitants to make.
“….Be ye not afraid of them, but fear Me, if ye have Faith.”
-The Holy Quran (3: 175)
Friday, January 21, 2011
I Believe
A testimony I've taken I'd like to share
of a belief within of a great affair
of a day for which we should all prepare
when deeds shall be weighed on a scale so fair
when the trumpet shall be blown and we reappear
anticipating judgement at the skies we stare
The day our ablution will make us glare
The day high mountains like cotton will flair
alone... each on his own,, that day will bear
glad tidings and peace for those who care
those Who single Him out in worship sincere
To take partners with Him they do not dare
Obedience and respect their parents hear
In every good deed they want to have a share
Fornication and adultery they do not near
portions of their wealth for orphans volunteer
O Allah my Lord you are I proudly declare
the creator of the heavens and earth without wear
no rest did you take nor problems bare
The Bestower of bounties The Manifest The Near
The Creator of Adam from clay austere
The Lord of Noah and his arc which you did steer
The Lord of David and Solomon the extraordinaire
The Lord of Lot and Jonah who was punished severe
The Lord of Abraham who told his people to beware
the idols they worshipped brought no joy or despair
The Lord of Isaac and Ishmael who you did spare
The Lord of Joseph the handsome who was judged unfair
The Lord of Moses and Aaron the magnificent pair
The Lord of Jesus the son of the virgin, I swear
The Lord of Muhammad the honest and trustworthy heir
of the message preceded by thy prophets here
The Most Merciful to whom no other can compare
The All Hearing All Seeing who does not err
In You I believe and in your path I ware
Your assistance I seek in every situation and every lair
Your mercy your guidance: salvation here and there
I testify O Protector i'm aware i'm aware
O Most High O Enricher O Expediter O Delayer
Protect me O Allah from the evil of Satan's snare
Save me from the torment of hellfire's flare
and grant me heavens and trees that fruits they bear
To Muhammad thy prophet I send my peace and my prayer
Praise to you alone O Majestic King O Source of all care
-Mohammed Kazim
of a belief within of a great affair
of a day for which we should all prepare
when deeds shall be weighed on a scale so fair
when the trumpet shall be blown and we reappear
anticipating judgement at the skies we stare
The day our ablution will make us glare
The day high mountains like cotton will flair
alone... each on his own,, that day will bear
glad tidings and peace for those who care
those Who single Him out in worship sincere
To take partners with Him they do not dare
Obedience and respect their parents hear
In every good deed they want to have a share
Fornication and adultery they do not near
portions of their wealth for orphans volunteer
O Allah my Lord you are I proudly declare
the creator of the heavens and earth without wear
no rest did you take nor problems bare
The Bestower of bounties The Manifest The Near
The Creator of Adam from clay austere
The Lord of Noah and his arc which you did steer
The Lord of David and Solomon the extraordinaire
The Lord of Lot and Jonah who was punished severe
The Lord of Abraham who told his people to beware
the idols they worshipped brought no joy or despair
The Lord of Isaac and Ishmael who you did spare
The Lord of Joseph the handsome who was judged unfair
The Lord of Moses and Aaron the magnificent pair
The Lord of Jesus the son of the virgin, I swear
The Lord of Muhammad the honest and trustworthy heir
of the message preceded by thy prophets here
The Most Merciful to whom no other can compare
The All Hearing All Seeing who does not err
In You I believe and in your path I ware
Your assistance I seek in every situation and every lair
Your mercy your guidance: salvation here and there
I testify O Protector i'm aware i'm aware
O Most High O Enricher O Expediter O Delayer
Protect me O Allah from the evil of Satan's snare
Save me from the torment of hellfire's flare
and grant me heavens and trees that fruits they bear
To Muhammad thy prophet I send my peace and my prayer
Praise to you alone O Majestic King O Source of all care
-Mohammed Kazim
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