Afghan Women’s Voices Silenced: A Conversation with Nobel Peace Prize Nominee Mahbouba Seraj

In a chilling new development, the Taliban regime in Afghanistan has barred women from speaking aloud in the presence of other women, further tightening its grip on female freedoms. This ban has sparked global outrage and raises serious concerns about the future of women’s rights in the country. In an exclusive interview with Firstpost, Afghan women’s rights activist Mahbouba Seraj sheds light on the devastating impact of this latest restriction, expressing deep concern about the regime’s interpretation of Islam and the mental well-being of Afghan women.

Amsterdam’s Fatih Mosque: A Bridge Between Cultures and Religions

Amsterdam’s Fatih Mosque, a former church transformed into a mosque, is now a key participant in the ‘Largest Museum of the Netherlands’ initiative. This program, spearheaded by the Catharijneconvent National Museum, aims to showcase diverse religious sites across the Netherlands and foster interfaith dialogue. The mosque welcomes visitors with multilingual materials and offers a unique glimpse into Islamic culture within a Dutch setting.

Ashura 2024: Significance and History of the Holy Month of Muharram

Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar, holds immense significance for Muslims worldwide. This month marks the beginning of a new year and is considered sacred, particularly for the commemoration of Ashura, the tenth day of Muharram. This article delves into the historical context and importance of Muharram, focusing on the tragic events of Karbala and the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, grandson of Prophet Muhammad.

Ancient Inscription May Link to Companion of Prophet Muhammad

A newly discovered Paleo-Arabic inscription in Saudi Arabia, possibly carved by a companion of the Islamic prophet Muhammad, is shedding light on the early days of Islam. Researchers believe the inscription, found near an abandoned mosque in Taif, was created by Hanzalah bin Abi ʿĀmir, a prominent figure in early Islamic literature. The inscription, dating back to the late sixth or early seventh century, provides a rare glimpse into the pre-Islamic Hijaz and the religious landscape before Islam’s rise.

Over 1.5 Million Pilgrims Begin Annual Hajj Pilgrimage in Mecca

Over 1.5 million Muslim pilgrims from around the world have gathered in and around Mecca for the annual Hajj pilgrimage, with expectations of surpassing 2 million this year. The pilgrimage commences in Mina, followed by a daylong vigil on Mount Arafat, where Prophet Muhammad delivered his Farewell Sermon. Pilgrims will then move to Muzdalifa and return to Mina for three days to symbolically stone pillars representing the devil. The Hajj culminates with a final circumambulation in Mecca, known as Farewell Tawaf. Despite the ongoing war in Gaza, Palestinian pilgrims traveled to Mecca on direct flights from Damascus, marking a thaw in relations between Saudi Arabia and Syria.

Eid ul-Adha: A Celebration of Faith, Sacrifice, and Obedience

Eid ul-Adha, also known as the Feast of the Sacrifice, is a significant occasion celebrated by Muslims worldwide. It commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham in the Judeo-Christian tradition) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God’s command. However, God provided a ram to sacrifice instead, symbolizing Ibrahim’s unwavering faith and obedience. Celebrated on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah, the twelfth and final month of the Islamic lunar calendar, Eid ul-Adha marks the end of Hajj and is associated with prayers, feasting, and the exchange of gifts.

1.5 Million Pilgrims Gather in Mecca for Annual Hajj Pilgrimage

Hundreds of thousands of Muslim pilgrims have arrived in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, for the annual Hajj pilgrimage, which begins today, Friday. Pilgrims will perform circumambulation around the Kaaba before moving to Mina, a desert plain outside the city, on the first day of Hajj. The number of pilgrims is expected to grow in the coming months, with hundreds of thousands of Saudis and other residents joining the pilgrimage after it officially begins on Friday.

Scroll to Top