They say first impressions are everything. In those first moments of meeting someone new, psychologists say you’ll both be scoping out the same four facial features. For example, you’ll…
25 Parenting tips backed by Science With the help of many sources online, here are some tips to get your started. Don’t be fooled by their height No matter how tall they get or how grown-up…
Eggs, eggs, eggs! You can have them scrambled, fried or even raw. I think the way you like them says something about you! Scrambled? Very untrustworthy—pray that the eggs are soft-scrambled at…
Common Mistakes in Ramadan For many of us Ramadan has lost its spirituality and has become more of a robotic exercise than a form of Ibaadah (worship); we fast from morning to night like zombies…
EU Referendum UK This is the one of the most difficult questions this country has faced in the last decade, do we stay or do we leave the EU? To begin with the only reason we are having the EU…
Muslim Moon Wars How moonsighting is established islamically Using Modern equipment Local vs Global Problem with Saudi Necessary to follow local mosque Solutions Misc Intro Muslim moon wars –…
‘I’m intelligent’ This simple statement can be perceived in many ways. How often are we quick to assume. Pride This is a feeling of deep pleasure in one’s own achievements or qualities…
What is Hijab To some this may be yet another Hijab post but this one is different, I want to look at the Hijab in the modern world. I also want to explore the emphasis of the word Hijab, how it’s…
Islam and the Tolkien’s Narrative Lord of the Rings and Islam – Many of you have seen the Tolkien series of films, there’s Lords of the Rings and The Hobbit. I’ve seen each of the…
Haircuts in Islam An unusual topic for me to discuss, but one Muslims generally overlook. Although not the strictest of rulings, there are hadith that stress keeping an adequate hair style. You can…
British Politics Political parties in the UK are more level-headed than ever and with the rise of the UKIP party, the two-party system is ceasing to exist. I’ve decided to explore the parties…
Oppressed or in Serenity? So who are these women covered from head to toe, are they oppressed and burdened as depicted in the morning paper or are they women who embody serenity? Are they enslaved…
Yesterday evening, before you went out, you’re pretty sure you looked real good. So who the hell is this schlub in the Facebook album from last night, tagged with your name? It’s a phenomenon nestled somewhere between universal annoyance and urban legend: People see something different in the mirror than they do in photographs and better yet, you don’t even look like what you see in the mirror, other people see a whole different you. More often than not looking in the mirror is controlled, predictable and palatable, while seeing your pictures is an endless source of nasty little surprises; Its why we subconsciously rush to see how we look in the picture. So, why the disparity? The answer is complicated, but it boils down to this: Your eyes, your brain, your mirror and your camera are all conspiring to sabotage your body image.
Pictures
It’s the camera, The camera does actually add ten pounds! Camera sensors may be absorbing the same photons as our eyes, but they’re doing so through a complex lens that can actually change the way you look. People see us in a “3D Perspective”. A camera sees in 2D while the human eye in 3D. This means that when we see with our eyes we see height, width and depth. With a camera we only see height and width. There is no way to have the depth in the picture as a photograph is a flat medium. With two eyes, the human brain is able to see the three dimensional aspects of someone’s face, even when viewed directly from the front, and it gives much more information than cameras. The face may appear to be fuller than it actually is in real life. The lens seems to bloat the centre by a fraction, but that fraction is sometimes a little too much. Since the lens-bloating isnt easily identifiable, people will instantly assume you’ve put on abit.
Lens distortion isn’t the only way a camera can screw with your visage. Flash illuminates subjects harshly, turning elegant faces normally accented by soft shadows into a flat, shadowless, cadaveric horror shows. Your make up will look pretty good in real life but once the flash hits it, it fails to bring out the texture the eyes see so often it will look overdone.
Whether these effects are annoying or used to advantage, they mean that what you see in photos is different than what you really look like.
Mirrors
I don’t mean to imply that the camera is the only liar, here, because mirrors are just as guilty. For one, they flip your image. The You you’re most familiar with, then, is actually an exact opposite of how you look to others. Granted, it’s an intuitive reversal, so it doesn’t bother us when we see it, but it implants a self-image that’s intrinsically wrong. On top of that, there’s the problem of perspective. People stand close to mirrors, but see their whole selves. Just because you look a certain way from three feet away doesn’t mean you’ll look the same from 15. You actually look better when looking from further away though, both in pictures and in the mirror and in real life!
You will always be looking slightly down at the rest of your body. You will pose for yourself, to achieve the most flattering look. You will hide fat behind folds of clothes, or minimize a strange facial feature with a tilt of the head. Other people, including photographers, don’t see this version of you. They see a version that you are rarely privy to. It’s a bit like how people hate their own voices on tape. Lenses may distort, but in a powerful way, these uncomfortable photographs are closer to reality than our careful image in the mirror.
How to actually look better
Well in the mirror, its what you make of it for that moment, theres no way your hair is gonna stay like it was whilst looking in the mirror. And its impossible to keep the same pose whilst out, throughout the whole day! but when taking pictures you can make sure you’re giving it your best after all it only makes sense to bring out your best in pictures for the world to see.
OH MY GOD SO THAT’S WHY MY WONDERFUL BUTT LOOKS SO FAT ON FILM!Mr. WordPress
Do you dislike having your picture taken because you always seem to come out looking hideous? Have you ever felt jealous of your friend who always comes out flawless in photos? What’s the deal with pictures? While being photogenic just comes naturally to some people, there are a few things that anyone can do to look better in photos.
Understand that being photogenic refers to the ability of appearing very attractive in photos. It is important to grasp that being naturally beautiful or striking does not necessarily translate to being photogenic in photos. Being photogenic is about awareness of how to put your best self forward, and knowing how to express your charisma for the camera. These are learned techniques, including applying your knowledge of the best backgrounds, lighting, and positioning for a good photo.
Don’t look at the camera; look through it.Mr. WordPress
Here’s a few tips from me. Get rid of a double chin. Tilt your head up slightly and try to position yourself so that the camera is a little above, or at, your eye level. This will hide a double chin effectively. You can also put one hand under your chin as though you’re resting your head on your hand (keep the thumb side of your hand out of the camera’s view, if possible). Don’t actually rest any weight on the hand, however, or you will push the skin into an unflattering position. Also, try resting your tongue against the roof of your mouth.
Think happy thoughts. An unnatural, forced smile can make you look stiff and weird. When people are smiling and waiting for a photo to be snapped, their facial muscles can be caught in all sorts of strange positions. To remedy this, try to time your smile so that you don’t have to hold it for too long. Also, imagine something funny (don’t be afraid to chuckle a bit, even) or think of someone—your spouse or child, for example—who makes you happy. By doing so, you’ll get a genuine smile. Regardless of how you choose to smile, the happier and more relaxed you are, the better.
Smile with your eyes. Nothing projects happiness and beauty like smiling eyes: a happy, somewhat mischievous expression of the eyes. To achieve this effect, imagine that the camera is a person you have a crush on walking into the room. This will create wider open eyes and a relaxed, three-quarter smile. Chances are you unconsciously do this all the time; the trick is to be able to bring it out on demand, so practice the smiling eyes in front of a mirror, and creating a smile “trigger”.
The more opportunities you have to practice in front of the camera, the better.Mr. WordPress
You want to bring out a glow! when seeing pictures, we only say wow or leave comments when we’re intrigued. Its the eyes we see first then the smile and then rest follows. Fake it till you make it. People are often photogenic because they like having their picture taken. They are therefore relaxed and happy when the camera appears. They know exactly how to stand, know their good features and always hide the bad side. You need to practice!
For a few moments before the picture, fill your cheeks full of air – really try to inflate them stretched like a trumpet player, then slowly exhale through your mouth. This relaxes the facial muscles and gets rid of jaw-tension. Another technique is to inhale then put your head down onto your chest, closing your eyes and slowly exhale. when you lift your head up, it will get rid of ‘the stare’. When stretching your neck, tilt the chin down a little bit to avoid the up-the-nose shots. Nobody wants to see them buggers!
Photoshop It!Mr. WordPress
Depending on the situation, always enhance your pictures with an editor. If you really are bothered, you can even use spot/blemish removal tools but I’d avoid them. This’ll only lead to depression! I like adjusting the brightness, contrast and saturation to help bring out your features so always use this, its only medaling with the light so what the camera has captured remains you!
Humans pick out confidence instantly! If your not confident then forget it, your picture wont be true enough to say its beautiful. If you don’t like others looking at you whilst taking pictures just forget them. Imagine your all alone in your room and being open and sexy. Once the pictures are up on Facebook, everyone will notice you first! On a final note, its bad practice to constantly look at your own pictures, you’ll lose confidence in yourself. No one is perfect. No one has a perfectly symmetrical face. You are you and you are beautiful.
With the increase of selfies, can you guys leave a comment below, tell me your opinion about looks and what we see
Other Posts:
*A short movie I made, where I’ve two minutes to pick up a curry. Features the Ferrari Scuderia and a near-miss accident, definitely a MUST WATCH for the lads. Enjoy!: Quick_Curry
*Palmistry is popular, everyone wants to know what their hand says. But is there any truth to it? Check out my post on Palmistry
They say first impressions are everything. In those first moments of meeting someone new, psychologists say you’ll both be scoping out the same four facial features. For example, you’ll assess how much they look like a baby. Wait, what?
Don’t Judge Me
While you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover, we can’t help but do it. And not to put pressure on you or anything, but first impressions kind of are pretty important and they tend to really stick with people (especially if they’re… not great). When people decide in less than a second of meeting someone if they’re trustworthy or not, you better make that blip in time count. Despite all of this, humans aren’t very good at make quick, initial judgements about people. Putting your best face forward means understanding what parts of your face are actually being judged so quickly. But, hey, when in doubt, just smile.
Time To Face The Facts
According to psychologist Leslie Zebrowitz of Brandeis University, you judge a person by reading four facial cues. Her research, published in Current Direction in Psychological Science in June 2017, these are the four cues:
Babyfaceness. People with “baby faces” will have large eyes, short chins, round faces, and large foreheads. Seeing a more baby-like face could make us treat that person more kindly, given our evolutionary soft-spot for youngins.
Familiarity. People like what’s familiar, so seeing a familiar face is preferred. Don’t believe it? This experience even happens for babies.
Fitness. There is a general understanding about what features we find attractive in a face, and healthy people look attractive. When we see a healthy, fit-looking face, we see someone who’s likable, intelligent, and capable.
Emotional resemblance. Humans are pretty good at reading emotional expressions in the face, so we’re going to pick those up right off the bat to try to judge someone. For instance, low eyebrows will make someone appear angry. An up-turned mouth will make someone seem happy, regardless of how they really feel.
Date Visited: 28/05/2016 Location: Leeds, LS10 1PJ
Website: www.mumtazleeds.co.uk
Average Price: Meal for two – £35 Approx
The Mumtaz franchise has expanded over the last few years, but sadly it’s only the Bradford restaurant that is doing well. The brand Jaldi Jaldi failed miserably with their pre-heated food and the current establishment ‘The Chandelier’ seems to be heading in a similar way.
The restaurant is located on a river bank and is a delight to walk in too. Mumtaz have carefully attempted to raise their standards, from velvet couches to chandeliers but on second inspection, the restaurant is actually themed like a bedroom, especially the wallpaper. But unlike a bedroom, the main eating area is big, empty and cold. Still you’re welcomed in with subtle music from a pianist, it’s just a shame he is a student. Terrible!
As you take a seat, the furniture is royal in its essence, the view to the right is scenic and the cutlery is first-class. We were greeted by a waiter which was pleasant but then asked for our order, I replied, ‘But we’ve only sat down?’, and to his amazement, he replied, ‘Oh’, and then awkwardly smiled and pretended to look busy. I presumed it’s part of the training.
“Cold draft coming in no matter where you sit, several flickering lights, bad service, toilets falling apart”
Food
When we finally did order and were served 20 minutes later, the food was well plated, and the curries came on a heated stove. I liked the idea of food off-the-hob, but infact it tasted warmed up. Rubbery chicken and rock hard naan. Usually with fresh food comes an aroma, but sadly the food was as bland as it smelt.
Salad plates were first placed, just the one for a family of 10, as I requested for one more, my sister noticed the yellowing of the cucumber. Before I could even enquire, we were told ‘you should have come earlier’, to which I replied, ‘So you either come in earlier or you’re given a plate of left over salad?’ I asked for the manager and only then a fresh plate of salad was served.
The starters were such a small portion but costed dearly. And with the Mango Lassi at 10 pound a jug, I could see the bill mounting. The lassi was plain yogurt with a slight hint of mango and 6 spoons of sugar. At this point, we started to realise the chairs are actually uncomfortbale, and the seating arrangements were cramped. We tried the following curries: Lamb Karahi, Chicken Karahi, Chicken Jalfrezi, Lamb Dhansak and Dhaal. All the lamb dishes tasted the same. and All the chicken dishes tasted the same. Infact I don’t think they were too much different.
Overall, the meal wasn’t the best but I can’t say it was completely unpleasant either. We skipped dessert in favour of Krispe Kreme Donuts.
Service
It was the manager who took our order since the waiter had made a disappearance act, and he was well aware for the various dishes. This was a thumbs up from me as I like staff who know their food. The manager was attentive at all times and on the ball but the staff were slow and confused. In a restaurnat with maybe 20 tables, only 3 or 4 waiters could be seen and to top it up, every waiter approached our table every five minutes to ask if everything was alright. There clearly are logistic problems.
‘..our main meal came after numerous reminders, 1 hr 45 minutes after the starter!! I dared to complain to the woman manager who couldn’t understand my grievance! Eventually she said “just stop arguing and eat your food! I am the manager and Im telling you our service isn’t poor!” We left at that point.’
Finally, to seal the nail in the coffin, the bill was extortionate, I’ve eaten in central London for cheaper than this, so was rather shocked. Considering we did not order any alcohol, the final bill came to £180; For a family of 10 who eat healthily that is fairly pricey.
So here is the verdict: Mumtaz has a lovely location and much potential, I highly recommend a SWOT analysis.
P.S for the managment, I have a Masters in Business Strategy, feel free to get in touch, I can recommend you the best asp .net cms software for your business, for those asking about insurance, the toronto business insurance is my go to.
Mental illness is often invisible. Do you ever wonder what it may feel like? The stigma needs to stop. Depression Anxiety –…
12 colourful cities Pachuca, Mexico Guatapé, Colombia Copenhagen, Denmark Sighisoara, Romania St. John’s, Newfoundland, Canada Willemstad…
A video I made of The Cat and Mouse playing. (Click The Pic)
A rotee i made not so long ago. What do you think?
Survival of the Fittest Darwin has wrote about the ‘Survival of the Fittest’, I’ve realised its not only that, that is necessary. Those who survive, succeed, get ahead or gain victory are…
The Money Flower Here is a flower made from bank notes and a coin. It is metaphorical of life. Without plants, humans can not survive, without money humans can not survive. Money is like Oxygen in…
Many people seem to misunderstand this pillar of Islam, either because of the numbers involved or simply because it is not taught anymore. This comprehensive guide will help you work out whether Zakat is fardh upon you or not.
Zakat is the term used for the obligatory charity in Islam. It means to purify, i.e. the giving of wealth, purifies wealth. It helps people let go of the world, provides financial support to others, and is a form of showing gratitude to Allah (SWT).
Zakat is fardh on every Muslim who is sane and has reached maturity and has complete ownership of wealth above the level of nisab (threshold). They must also hold this wealth for one lunar year.
The nisab can be calculated based on Gold or Silver.
The nisab on the Gold standard is measured at 87.48g, 3.09oz or 7.5 thola
The nisab on the Silver standard is measured at 612.36g, 21.6oz or 52.78 thola
Therefore using the following (updated) values for Gold and Silver at today’s rate, this means the current nisab of the Gold standard is:
£994.51oz x 3.09oz = £3073.03
And for Silver it is:
£14.07oz x 21.6oz = £303.91
Now every individual can choose the standard the wish to go by. However most scholars argue that if we go by the Silver standard, more people will be eligible to pay Zakat, therefore more will go to the poor. Whereas others state the Gold standard is better to ensure that the actual wealthy pay, and this also raises the benchmark for those who will be eligible to receive Zakat too, i.e. someone with £2700 in the bank will be considered eligible.
The choice is yours.
In order to fulfil one’s obligation, one must intend (i.e. specify) that they are paying the Zakat. Zakat is also only payable to Muslims.
The Holy Qur’an (Surah Tawbah:Verse 60) tells us who may receive Zakat payments:
The poor – Those whose wealth is below the level of nisab. Priority should be given to relatives, neighbours and then the wider community
The destitute – Those who have nothing at all – food, clothes nor shelter
Administrators/collectors of Zakat
New Muslims – Scholarly differences whether abrogated on not. Used to reconcile with Muslims during advent of Islam, some scholars claim this still is the case with new disenfranchised Muslims
To free slaves
Those who are unable to pay their debts
In the path of Allah (swt) – this can be towards someone’s studies or marriage
Travellers who cannot afford to return home
The method of working out Zakah is:
Record when you first reached Nisab (pick Gold or Silver)
Wait one lunar year
Calculate all assets
Minus liabilities and debts owed to others
See if you still meet the Nisab value
If so, 2.5% of total amount of assets at this date
If not, wait until the next time you reach nisab then continue from 2.
Example (Gold standard)
Ahmed starts a new job, he gets paid £1500 per month but is left with £200 at the end of the month. At this point he is below the nisab. After 5 months, he manages to save £3500. He notices he has met the nisab.
Ahmed will make a note of the date he saved £3500 (lunar date). This is the 12th Rajab. From then on Ahmed saves monthly, but when he reaches Muharram (6 months later), he uses his savings of £8000 to buy a car valued at £7500. This leaves him with £500, at this point no Zakat is due by Ahmed. However he continues counting towards the 12th Rajab. After further savings, on the eve of 12th Rajab, he manages to save £4000. Ahmed considers his liabilities and notices he doesn’t owe anyone money but has £400 of bills and insurance to pay this month.
At this date he calculates whether he is above the nisab value, which he is (£3600). So he must pay 2.5% of that (£90) in Zakat. Ahmed should look to make immediate payment as it would not be permitted to delay payment to Ramadhan.
Zakat Calculator
I’ve created a Zakat Calculator below for your convenience. I’ve entered random numbers as examples. Just click download.
FAQ
What happens if someone is below the nisaab after one year?
If a person comes to know they are below the nisab after one lunar year then they wait till the next time they meet the nisab. This is their new nisab date, for which Zakat may be due after one lunar year.
Is Zakat payable on valuable stones and jewels?
If these valuable stones and jewels [i.e., other than gold and silver] are for the purpose of trading, then they are liable for Zakat. If however, they are used for one’s personal use, Zakat does not need to be paid on it, irrespective of their value.
During the year, can the Zakat be paid in advance through small installments?
Yes, someone who is legally responsible to pay the Zakat can pay through monthly instalments throughout the year, with the intention of paying the Zakat. When the lunar year comes to an end, the Zakat should be calculated, and whatever remains outstanding should be paid off. In similar fashion, the outstanding amount can also be paid through installment.
Should the Zakat and Sadaqa be paid only in Ramadan?
It is obligatory (wajib) to pay the Zakat as soon as the lunar year has passed, and its payment should not be deferred till the month of Ramadan. However, if Ramadan is drawing near, such as a week away, then there is no harm in waiting till Ramadan to pay it.
Can a husband and wife give their Zakat to each other?
No, a husband and wife cannot give their Zakat to each other. Nor father to son, as the welfare of these people is inherent.
Can a husband pay a wife’s Zakat
No, the wife must pay her own Zakat. This should preferably be from the wealth she holds however the husband can gift her money. And from that money she can uses it to pay her Zakat. However note, this will become an asset and count towards her nisab.
Children savings
If the money belongs to the children, then the children do not pay zakat on the wealth. This is because, by the time, they are mature the majority of money may get eaten up by the zakat payments. If however its your money but set aside for children’s needs, and is at your discretion then this will be part of your assets.
Is Zakat to be paid upon property or land?
Zakat is not due on residential properties however, if one rents out a house, flat, or shop for the purpose of making profit, then this will count as an asset. Zakat must also be paid on the value of one’s house, flat, or land which was bought originally with the purpose of re-sale (i.e., for business or trade purposes). The Zakat should be paid on the current market value, and not the purchase price.
Zakat is compulsory on trade goods and merchandises (i.e., items which are bought with the intention of re-sale), but not on tools or equipment used in trade or business. However, the profit gained by their use, if it reaches the nisab and a year has passed, it becomes compulsory to pay the Zakat on this.
Is a mortgage a liability?
As a mortgage comes with a term, the total value can not be considered a debt, as immediate payment is not required. However one may deduct the monthly payments as liabilities.
Pensions
For personal pension funds, one should calculate the amounts accrued for the full lunar year. However if one has a work pension, they do not have to pay zakat on it, till they are paid out.
Hashimis
The recipient should not be from the lineage of the Prophet
Zakat-ul-Fitr
Zakat-ul-Fitr is universal amongst all Muslims, regardless of individual income and age. Therefore it is due on every member of the household. It is based on the average consumption of members of the household, to which there is a cash equivalent (£3-£5). This money is then given to those in need (the poor and needy, captives, debtors, travelers and so on) before commencing Eid-ul-Fitr Salaah (Eid-ul-Fitr prayer). This is also known as Fitrana and Sadaqatul Fitr.
If you have any questions, leave a comment below and I will get them answered.
Eggs, eggs, eggs! You can have them scrambled, fried or even raw. I think the way you like them says something about you! Scrambled? Very untrustworthy—pray that the eggs are soft-scrambled at…
Future Technology has been a thing in the movies, now we are closer sci-fi as ever. With the advent of space travel, personal computers and mobile phones, technology revolutionised the way we live…
Bathing Have you ever wondered whether you wash your self properly or at least adequately? We’ve all heard of the many cleansing products but what do they actually do and how beneficial are…
Power naps Unlike 85% of all mammalian species, humans sleep just once a day. According to medical professionals people in the UK are struggling to get enough sleep which is leaving them tired during…
Archery – A Sunnah Sport Full of Secrets Wondering how to do ibadah (worship) while playing a sport? A few years ago a friend and I followed our beloved Prophet’s (peace and blessings of…
Polygamy Should we allow Polygamy Bigamy – having two wives Polygny – having more than two wives Polyandry – having more than one husband Polygamy in England was first declared…
Quick Curry Here is a short movie I made, My first short movie. I took out a week to create a short movie as I’ve had a sudden interest! 2 days of filming and 3 days of editing. Happy…
How moonsighting is established islamically
Using Modern equipment
Local vs Global
Problem with Saudi
Necessary to follow local mosque
Solutions
Misc
Intro
Muslim moon wars – Year after Year, Muslims vary on when to start fasting and celebrate Eid. There have been instances of 28 fasts in total and at other times protests in mosques. There are various approaches scholars take on moon sighting. The most prominent ones being a local sighting, following Saudi Arabia, a physical sighting anywhere in the World or using a predefined calculation.
UPDATED: 06 June 2016 – The moon has been reported to be sighted in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Jordan, Yemen and Nigeria. Moonsighting.com, an independent organisation, also claim the moon being sighted in Saudi Arabia. Therefore people of these nations will pursue fasting on Monday 6th June. And those in the UK who ascribe to a global sighting or consider Saudi as ultimate authority will also begin fasting on Monday 6th June.
On the other hand According to British Muslim Forum Moon Sighting Board no sighting of moon was reported and according to observatory reports it was impossible for the moon to be sighted. Also, Morocco have confirmed no sight of the moon, therefore will complete 30 days of Sha’ban. Due to its proximity to the UK, many Sunni communities will also bind themselves to this verdict. Thus fasting will begin on Tuesday 7th June 2016.
A New Moon occurs where the moon has completed its cycle around the earth and is about to begin another cycle. During the New Moon phase, the moon is not visible from the earth. It’s only about 17-23 hours after a new moon, we are able to verify it, due to the thin crescent appearing. It is the sighting of this crescent that marks the new month.
Determining the new month in Islam
Although the Qur’an does not directly relate the methods of how to sight the moon, it nevertheless highlights the importance of sighting the moon.
Allah ﷻ states:
The month of Ramadhan [is that] in which was revealed the Qur’an, a guidance for the people and clear proofs of guidance and criterion. So whoever sights [the new moon of] the month, let him fast…Quran 2:185
The new moon is established by witnessing the crescent. This argument can be supported by the following verse.
The Sahaba asked the Messenger of Allah ﷺ the following:
What is the state of the moon? (At first) it becomes apparent and rises thin as a thread; then it increases (in size) until it becomes large and it reaches its zenith; it then turns and begins to decrease and becomes small (in size) until it returns to how it was upon the first state?
Upon this question being asked, verse 189 of Surah al-Baqarah was revealed.
They ask you, (O dear Prophet Mohammed ﷺ), regarding the crescents; say, ‘They are indicators of time for mankind and for Hajj (the pilgrimage)’…Quran 2:189
The Sunnah further establishes the method of determining the month of fasting where sighting is difficult due to adverse conditions.
Sayyiduna Abu Hurairah (Allah is pleased with him) that the Messenger ﷺ said: Observe fast on sighting it (i.e. the new moon) and break (fast) on sighting it (i.e month ends), but if the sky is cloudy for you, then complete the number (of thirty).Sahih al-Muslim
This outlines the need to sight the crescent to determine the new month but also the end of the month. Where the crescent cannot be sighted, to complete fasting for 30 days.
In practical terms the method is to go out to witness the moon on the eve of the 29th day of the month of Shabaan, if the moon is sighted then Shabaan has been completed and Ramadan commences the next day. This means Monday 06 June 2016. But if the moon is not sighted, Shabaan is deemed to be 30 days long and Ramadan will start the day after on Tuesday 07 June 2016.
The Hanafi’s have established methods of sighting and confirming the month – See Moon Sighting in Accordance with Hanafi Fiqh.
Why aren’t there 28 days or 31 days in a month?
The moon revolves around the earth in an elliptical orbit, therefore, this cycle either takes 29 or 30 days to complete. This is why there is always only a dispute over 2 days, because no lunar month lasts more than 30 days or less than 28 days. However, if say, Saudi confirm moon sighting on a Monday where there’s some doubt and 29 days later, it’s confirmed that Shawaal has started due to cler moon sighting, it means that those who started fasting on the Tuesday will have only fasted 28 days. I’m not sure what scholars advise in this situation, presumably to make up the fasts, but even then, the ego finds it difficult to accept mistake.
Another problem that may persist is the Night of Qadr, depending on when you class as the 1st of the month, the 27th night will fall on a different day, i.e the 27th odd night will be an even night for others. It begs the question whether its the 27th night from the beginning of the month determined, or a night set that can fall on various days. I suppose this supports the argument of pushing prayer to a fuirther level in the last 10 days of Ramadhan.
Naked Eye vs Modern Scientific Instruments
There are three positions here:
Using the naked eye only
Using the naked eye to establish but allowing the use of instruments like a telescope
Using modern more accurate methods and calculations
Some jurists stick to the letter of the text whilst others try to implement the text in spirit.
Sayyiduna Abu Hurairah (Allah is pleased with him) that the Messenger ﷺ said: Observe fast on sighting it (i.e. the new moon) and break (fast) on sighting it (i.e month ends), but if the sky is cloudy for you, then complete the number (of thirty).Sahih al-Muslim
There is some disagreement among scholars in relation to this hadith. The Arabic word for sighting – mentioned in the hadith – is ru’yah. Some state that ru’yah here refers ru’yah basri, which is to sight the moon physically with the ‘naked eye’. Whereas other scholars state that ru’yah here refers to ru’yah ilmi, which is to have knowledge of the moon being above the horizon and visible, without the need to physically sight it.
The first set of scholars argue that in fact Muslims were capable of calculating the moon’s birth centuries ago to a highly accurate degree. They used sophisticated charts to determine when and where the moon could be sighted. The astronomer, mathematician, engineer, and jurist all had methods of calculation, yet the method of physical sighting took precedence. It is not befitting for this to change now.
Ibn Hajar, said, ‘This (completing thirty days of Sha’bān) is an indication that we should not refer to calculations or astronomy. The Prophet guided us to completing thirty days of Sha’bān while he could have guided us to consider other means that enable us to know the beginning of the astronomical month’.
There is also a position that holds sighting is also worship since it is a means of establishing the month of fasting. It is classed as a declaratory law assigned by Allah to determine the beginning of Ramadan. The classical scholars were profoundly well-versed in science, especially geography and astronomy, and capable of making calculations of moon sightings but did not do so, as they considered it an abandonment of prophetic practice.
The latter set of scholars argue some earlier jurists literally applied the Prophetic words and connected the five times daily prayers with the poles, shadow and movements of the Sun. They categorically prohibited use of astronomically calculated clocks in determining prayer timings. Then clock timings were made of use and currently a norm. Likewise calculations were not permitted to determine Qiblah directions, i.e. the modern compass. So it is only a matter of time, when we establish scientific methods to determine the true beginning of the lunar month. That in fact the whole purpose of witnessing is by using the best means possible, as times have changed, the means have changed too, and so we would in fact be acting in accordance with Islamic doctrine.
Furthermore, although the use of astronimcal calculations are not used on the whole when determining the new month, it does not go to say they are incorrect. Where there are instances from labs and stations that moon visibility is impossible from the earth but have been confirmed by people, do we take the report of the expert in to account? Do we doubt the Muslim or do we continue with traditional methods? Is it not time we verify sight using modern technology to ensure the begining of the month.
Regardless of the arguments, most scholars resume the position of physical sighting but allow the use of telescopes to ease sighting, just as we wear glasses to ease seeing. Morroco, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and other Muslim Majority states hold this opinion.
Unity – All on one day or not?
Unity does not equate to doing the same thing at the same time; those who present this argument only advocate dictatorship and control. Unity in the Muslim world will not come from starting Ramadhan or celebrating Eid on the same day across the entire planet. How can the whole world began Ramadhan on the same day when it is not even the same calendar day in every location on the earth? Unity comes from the members of the same family, Mosques in the same city, Muslims in the same country living in harmony and working for the common good. But yes there should be unity in looking to find a balance, looking to celebrate Eid together if in the same city. It is evident that when people in Saudi Arabia are performing their Fajr prayers, those in North America may still have not completed their Isha prayers of the previous day. Similarly, when Muslims in Los Angeles offer their Fajr prayers, those in India and Pakistan are offering their Maghrib or Isha prayer of the same day.
Should there be global Eid or local Eid
According to the majority of all four Madhhabs, with the exclusion of some Shafi scholars, the difference of the horizons is not considered between cities/countries. This therefore means that if a valid sighting of the moon is established in one city, the Judge of a second city can accept this ruling if the sighting can be established and confirmed in accordance with the Shari’ah (i.e. any one of the methods described previously). On the other hand can reject it, based on the hadith of Ibn Abbas.
Imam Ahmed Raza Khan (Allah shower His Mercy upon him) writes about a personal experience of a global moon sighting:
Here neither the crescent of Ramadan was sighted on Tuesday, nor the crescent of Eid on Thursday, as it was extremely cloudy. On Friday night (i.e. Thursday evening – Islamically the day begins after Maghrib, and the night thus comes before the day) I prayed Salah at-Traveeh, and decided to fast the next day. Then all a sudden the news of some people coming from Egypt reached me, and it was said that they saw the crescent of Ramadan on Tuesday night. They were called (to us), and they then testified (in accordance with the Shari’ah). After further investigation took place, Eid was announced at 1.00am.
This means a Global fast or Eid is possible however, does not negate the use of local sightings. Even if we depend on or can prove a sighting from another city or country, a local sighting (whether positive or negative) is a must.
As Saudi Arabia have declared the witnessing of the moon, many communities in the UK have accepted this and will fast on Monday 6th June. However some communities will take this in to account but also what other Islamic states declare, especially Morocco who use a local method, i.e. Morocco won’t follow the sighting of Saudi. Therefore Muslims in the UK may also take this position.
Saudis Recent Miscalculations
The Umm al-Qura calendar is the official lunar calendar system of Saudi Arabia and is used in the Middle East and by many Muslims across the world to establish the start of the Islamic month. Contrary to popular belief, the Umm al-Qura calendar system is not established on actual moon sighting but the certainty that the moon will be seen somewhere in the world within a given period.
In 2012, Ramadhan was announced by Saudi Arabia for Friday 20th July 2012 on the basis that Muslims in Chile would see the moon. According the all scientific data and subsequent observation reports, the moon was not visible anywhere else in the world. Independent reports and official announcements by Islamic organisations in Chile showed that the moon was not seen in Chile and the first official day of Ramadhan in Chile was Saturday 21st July 2012. The Umm al-Qura calendar had committed Muslims across the world to being Ramadhan on Friday 20th July when not a single Muslim in the world had seen the moon.
Eid al Fitr: Did Saudi Arabia Mistake Saturn for the Shawwal Moon?
Saturnine faces as astronomers query moon sighting over Saudi Arabia
Due to this large Muslims are reluctant to follow Saudi.
Do you have to follow your local mosque even if you disagree?
Much of the discussion above relates to Ramadhan/Eid occurring on different days due to differences in calculation and time zones however in the west, it is common to see Muslims in the same neighbourhood celebrating on different days.
The standard position of determining the months still stands in the UK, however due to our location, we are not able to see the crescent even with optical aids. So due to this, there are some who follow the verdict passed by the Saudi Government as they are the ‘centre of Islam.’ Others take on the Hanafi position of accepting the verdict of another judge, this being from the state of Morroco. As Morocco is the nearest Muslim country in distance and time zone, it is befitting that Muslims follow their verdict.
There is the principle of following the masses, a hadith metions:
The fast is the day you all fast; the breaking of fast is on the day that you all break fast; and the day of sacrifice is on the day that you all sacrifice.Al-Tirmidhi
Al-Tirmidhi says, ‘Some scholars explained this hadith to mean that fasting and breaking the fast should be done with the Muslim body [jama’ah] or the majority of people.’
This means that the lay man does not have his own sighting of the moon or follow his own decision. The matters of beginning Ramadān and confirming ‘Īd are not private affairs; they are decisions which affect the ummah and therefore have to be taken on that level. None can do this except the leader of the Muslims. When there is no leader then the majority of Muslims represent the opinion of the ummah.
So it will be incorrect for Muslims to celebrate alone, or where it is EID. It is important to remember the essence of the day is celebration, this is with one’s family and the Muslims, and so it would be inappropriate to be single oneself out due to one’s opinion.
Solutions
It is not possible to begin the fast on the same day across the world however I do believe it is important to do so in local communities. So in the UK an option is to set up an independent committee who determine and pass verdicts for the beginning of each Islamic month, just like we have committees who establish the Juma prayer in communities.
Or to appoint an official Qadi in Morroco who can relay the verdict of the Moroccon courts to the UK. This will help in starting the month on a single day in the UK, as we don’t have an issue of sighting, but of following an authority.
To summarise, we can employ one of two methods.
The first is to sight the moon with the eye. The basis for this doctrine is numerous Prophetic traditions [ahadith]; Abu Hurayrah relates that the Prophet, may Allāh praise and send peace and blessings upon him, said, ‘Fast when you see it (i.e., the moon) and cease fasting when you see it, and if it is hidden or cloudy, complete the counting of Sha’bān as thirty days.’ This hadith is agreed upon by Al-Bukhari and Muslim; similar authentic ahadith are also recorded.
The second principle applies only in the absence of the first, which is to complete thirty days for the month of Sha’bān. The basis for this is also the previous hadith and many other similar statements. Furthermore, the overwhelming majority of scholars also agreed not to consider astronomy or calculations as a tool to confirm the beginning of Ramadān or ‘Īd.ā.
Misc
Importance of sighting
Pre Islam – The Jews and Makkan polytheists used to synchronize their lunar calendar with the civic solar calendar by arbitrary intercalations. The lunar year consisted of 354 days while the solar year was 365 days. The Hajj would fall sometimes in winter and on others times in spring or summer. The Polytheists wanted Hajj to fall during specific seasons for political and economic reasons. That is why they intercalated a thirteenth month after each three or four years to synchronize the lunar with the solar year. That changed the Hajj from its original sacred timing of Zil Hajjah to other months like Muharram, Safar or Rabi’ al-Awwal. The Qur’an abolished that practice and brought the time back to its original form. (Qur’an 9:36–37) The Prophet (PBUH) commanded Muslims to connect the sacred months of worship back to their original timings. The only mean available at that time to determine the month was either by physical moon sighting or completing 30 days in case of climatic obscurities such as clouds. That is why the Prophet (PBUH) emphasized either actual moon sighting or completion or counting.
Prayer calculations vs. moon-sighting calculations
It is allowed for us to rely on scientific facts that can provide accurate information in deciding the prayers times; we are allowed to use watches, computer programs and other technologies to decide these times. Why is this not the case for deciding the start and end of Ramadān?
There is a major Islamic difference between the prayer timings and the timings for the beginning and ending of Ramadān and the Hajj day. Allāh says in the Qur’ān, Establish the prayer from midday till the darkness of the night (i.e.. the Thuhr, ‘Asr, Maghrib and ‘Isha’ prayers)’16 and He also said, ‘So glorify Allāh , when you come up to the evening (i.e., offer the Maghrib and ‘Isha’ prayers), and when you enter the morning (i.e., offer the Fajr prayer).’17 Allāh has commanded us to pray in those specific times and hence we are commanded to determine the time by any means.
In contrast, Allāh never commanded us to begin Ramadān in a specific time or due to the birth of the new moon rather he commanded us to fast once we ‘witness’ the new moon. Therefore, our concern is not in the actual time or the birth of the new moon which is identified by the moon leaving the conjunction; rather we are concerned with ‘witnessing’ the new moon.
Timing of Sahoor in the UK
Over the last few years due to the Summer months in the UK, the timings of sahoor have varied from mosque to mosque. All have valid opinions. I ‘ll explain briefly.
The beginning time for the Fajr prayer is the start of the time for fasting according to all Muslim scholars. The basis of this consensus is the verse,
And eat and drink until the white thread (light) of dawn appears to you distinct from the black thread (darkness of night), then complete your Saum (fast) till the nightfall.Quran 2:187
The Prophet (sall Allāhu ʿalayhi wa sallam) instructed the Companions,
The athān (call to prayer) of Bilāl should not prevent you from eating Sahūr (predawn meal) because he gives athān at night, therefore keep eating and drinking until you hear the athān of ʿAbdullāh b. Umm Makktum. He (ʿAbdullāh b. Umm Makktum) gives athān when the fajr comes out.Tirmidhi
The Fajr referred to in the ḥadīth is the true Fajr: al-Subh al-Sadiq. Samrah ibn Jundub related that the Prophet stated, “The vertical light (al-Fajr al-Mustateel which is the false Fajr) should not prevent you from eating (Sahoor). You can eat and drink until the light appears to spread (al-Fajr al-Mustateer – the true Fajr).
Scholars differ on what is the Subh Sadiq in the summer months. Generally, sahoor is established when the ‘white thread’ appears in the night sky, this is known as true dawn and is established when the Sun is between 12- 18 degrees below the horizon. However in the Summer as the night is so short, experts claim that the Sun does not set beyond 18 degrees and enter the period of ‘night’ i.e. where there is total darkeness.
As a result scholars have varied opinions on when the Subh Sadiq shall occur. Some say we should estimate the time based on the last best known time of Subh Sdiq, i.e. follow the 18 degree principle. Others say, since there is no night, an estimation should be made on the typical length of the ‘night’ and Fajr begins during 12 degrees. This in reality is about a difference of about an hour. Finally some mosques in the north remain strict on their interpretation and hold the time for Fajr to be where the sun returns to rise. Typically this is 45 minutes before the more common 18 degree prciniple.
All opinions are valid and you are free to follow one and stick by it.
Date Visited: 14/09/2017
Location: Bradford, BD7 3HS
Website: www.Mumtaz.co.uk
Average Price: Meal for two – £35 Approx
Mumtaz set up in 1979 as a street stall and now is one of the most popular restaurants in the UK. The brand has slowly franchised out and has also developed ready meals and baby food. I remember going to Mumtaz as a young boy, it was big, fun and delicious, but over the years as it has started looking more and more majestic, only for the civilised working class and not screaming kids. When you first walk in you’re unsure where to go, and who to see. Once a waiter notices you, you’re shown to a table. But although the layout and seating is very jumbled and there’s a staircase down the middle, it’s in fact very lively inside, Asian music in background, and curry house feeling. People are clearly having a good time.
It’s biggest achievement to date is serving the Queen dinner. I personally don’t think the Queen will visit again.
Once you sit down for a bit, all you can hear is chair rattling, there’s definitely too much rattling, the metal gives Mumtaz a cold feeling.
‘Vast range of Asian food to cater to all taste buds, great range of desserts and starters mainly, chicken shawarma was lovely, quite a small place inside so wouldn’t recommend going with a group of friends or family, not much of an atmosphere also as it is more of take out than a restaurant’
Food
Every time I visit Mumtaz, the prices have gone up. But the food is the same, infact in some cases worse. The Salad is always discoloured, cheap tomatoes and cucumbers, or maybe even left overs from another customer. I can’t discredit the food, because it was edible but its not 10/10. When the food did arrive, it was hot and sizzling, there was a fresh aroma, and it was presented well. Its just a shame it didn’t taste like that. The masala fish was cheap and full of bones, the pani-puri was burned and tasteless and the lamb chops in the mixed grill had actually gone off. I informed the waitress who shrugged her shoulders and said she’d tell the chef. That’s it, didn’t hear back from her again. £9 odd for a veggie curry! £5 for a glass of mango lassi. The Veg curry tasted ok but was very oily and the vegetables were definitely frozen.
‘Horrendous delivery, 2 hours to get a simple order delivered, especially considering that they are only 5 minutes away. I could have picked it up myself if it wasn’t for their misleading “he’s on his way”‘
Service
When looking out towards the rest of the restaurant, its like a circus, waiters ducking and diving. And why is the menu endless, same curries with a slight difference, just another way to exploit white people I guess. The staff were present but very robotic, obviously getting paid below minimum wage, so dreading their job. Its important to look smart and appear pleasant, the staff here obviously hated their job.
Mumtaz at this point can be seen to really drop standards. You don’t get one waiter or a personal service you get random waiters walking past and with poor hygiene!
So here is the verdict: Mumtaz has an international brand, don’t screw it up by saving a few pennies. Quality salad, Quality ingredients and Quality service. Provide your staff with a clean shirt and a name badge.
This simple statement can be perceived in many ways. How often are we quick to assume.
Pride
This is a feeling of deep pleasure in one’s own achievements or qualities or possessions. Where one is excessively conceited or absorbed in oneself; self-centred. Feeling they are the best of a group, class, society, etc. Where someone stands up tall and feels on top of the world because of their achievements and skills. This is known to corrupt, not being able to humble yourself in your manner leads to further corruption, i.e. arrogance.
Arrogance
This is to exaggerate one’s own worth or importance often by an overbearing manner. The feeling of being better than others and that they owe something to you.
Narcissism
This can be described as extreme selfishness, with a grandiose view of one’s own talents and a craving for admiration.
High self-esteem
Self-esteem is your overall opinion of yourself — how you feel about your abilities and limitations. When you have healthy self-esteem, you feel good about yourself and see yourself as deserving the respect of others.
Although narcissists feel superior to others they do not necessarily feel that good about themselves. In contrast, people with high self-esteem naturally feel good about themselves but do not feel superior to others.
Vanity
This is excessive pride in or admiration of one’s own appearance i.e. fancying oneself. Those who can’t admiring themselves in the mirror and those who constantly take selfies.
Obnoxious
A feeling of honour and self-respect; a sense of personal worth, where sopme people they are ‘it’. This closely relates pride but usually shown in any given moment, and triggered off by something. Whereas ride is a constant feeling of achievement and self-worth.
Boasting
One boasts when he talks with self-satisfaction about one’s achievements, possessions, or abilities or otherwise, blowing one’s own trumpet. This can be expressed by achievement, confidence or proudness, just because someone is boasting, doesn’t mean they are doing so arrogantly.
Confident
This is the feeling or showing confidence in oneself or one’s abilities or qualities. This is being aware of one’s skills and abilities and expressing them respectively. It does not mean the person is arrogance nor full of pride.
Now look back at the statement I am intelligent and think of people who may use this term, are they actually arrogant?
of deep pleasure in one’s own achievements or qualities or possessions. Where one is excessively conceited or absorbed in oneself; self-centred. Feeling they are the best of a group, class, society, etc. Where someone stands up tall and feels on top of the world because of their achievements and skills. This is known to corrupt, not being able to humble yourself in your manner leads to further corruption, i.e. arrogance.
