Ali Khamenei, A Scholar committed to Demystifiying Islam

Ali Khamenei, A Scholar Committed to Demystifying Islam

By Jan Freidun Taravosh December 2nd 2009

Introduction: 

Sayyid Ali Khameni, Supreme  leader and guide of the Islamic Revolution and former President of the Islamic Republic of Iran. since a very young age, has been very committed to Islamology studies. He was a student in Qum, and also around the time of the 60’s and mid  70’s he was a frequent lecturer in Mashad and under places. His lectures raised the politically interested students, yet his commitment to lecturing the youth on the revolutionary aspects of Islamic Thought. While theses lectures were popular among youth, students and common people in general.  they were not appreciated by the Imperialist, pro U.S and notoriously  fascist Shah Regime, and thus Khamenei was imprisoned by the Shah’s secret service SAVAK no less than 6 times, while in prison he was often tortured.  this didn’t stop Khamenei from lecturing with zeal, with the aim of sending a clear message of Islam to the People of Iran and especially to the youth. 

 The publishing of “The General Pattern of Islamic Thought in the Qur’an” - a review

One of his profound lectures is known as “The General Pattern of Islamic Thought in the Qur’an” it’s a thesis which was first written in 1972, was published in the time of the fifth anniversary of the victory of the Islamic Revolution  the founding of the independent state The Islamic  Republic of Iran, which was celebrated in the mid 80’s. In this pamphlet which is only 78 pages long, Khamenei still succeeds in proving a deep understanding to the reader on the concept of Islamic thought, by bringing clarity to a selection of Qur’anic verses and demystifying Islam and always keeping a clear perspective correlating the concept of thought with social environment and practical reality of regular human beings.

Khamenei speaks with clarity from start, pointing out that: “Islamic learning's, teachings and system of thought, should rid of abstraction [...] Islam like other schools of thought, should apply to practical responsibilities and social life of man moreover.”

Faith arises from understanding, intellect and knowledge

Khamenei also explains how the concept or Islam thought appeals in particular to the human intellect, and in one stroke he thus explains how Islamic Thought is incompatible with ignorance. 

“Faith arises from understanding, intellect and knowledge” (see page 19) and furthermore that ““true faith is inseparable from action” 

(see page 21)

Khamenei also shows how spiritual awareness can be a powerful driving force in the transformation of society, and Khamenei furthermore clarifies that Islam,   contrary to the general belief in the west, is indeed relevant in today’s world:

“ in this school of thought(Islam) battle against man’s domineering commands. class privileges, exploitation and tyranny in any form is something natural in the same way that in an ideal social system it is natural to care about freedom, man’s reverence, social justice, public welfare and abolishment of tyranny and oppression. Therefore the direction and the aim of the prophets’ school of thought is quite clear.”

A Perfect Introduction to The Holy Qur’an

Although “The General Pattern of Islamic Thought” is a relatively short Pamphlet Reading it, provided me with a most dynamic understanding of Islamic Thought and  indeed this work really succeeds in getting rid of abstraction and serves everyone well.  The language is not complicated and everyone can relate to the social character of the published text. 

For anyone who is curious in reading the Qur’an, the above mentioned work is a perfect introduction and I think the Pamphlet is as relevant today as it was when it was published - if not more. 

Khamenei’s commitment to demystifying and revitalising the true core concepts of Islam, is well appreciated and works well as a means for dispelling Islamophobic sentiments among people in general. 

An Essential Read for Muslims and non Muslims alike 

It’s an essential read for Muslims and non Muslims alike. I am  especially convinced that  anti imperialist youth and progressive students will be positively surprised, as this book clarifies the true dynamics of Islamic Thought, which is genuinely unheard of in the west. 

The quest for clarity and the  aim to dispel all sorts of confusion is ever present in this Pamphlet, or as Khamenei himself explains it: “To get rid of confusion and anxiety is one of the most important characteristics of the faithful, the Qur’an promises to provide the faithful with this valuable spiritual state.”

Don’t let prejudice or Islamophobia scare you, “The General Concept of Islamic Thought in The Qur’an” is as easy accessible as it is profound, My advice is that you should go and ask you local library for it!

Dr Ali Shariati clarifies the Progressive nature of Shi’ism.

Dr Ali Shariati clarifies the Progressive nature of Shi’ism.

 By Jan Freidun Taravosh December 1st 2009

Introduction: 

I was introduced to the works of Dr. Ali Shariati by my father, who told me that I if wish to learn more about Islam, studying the works of Dr. Shariati will provide me with a greater understanding about the  subject than anything else.

  Dr. Ali Shariati was a noted progressive Muslim scholar in the days of the revolution, and his works are considered some of the most important, in shaping a revolutionary outlook in  Iran. the  following article I am presenting, focuses on my reflections concerning   his thesis “Where Shall We Begin”.  obviously, there must surely be many great works worth mentioning from this great thinker, yet as the above mentioned thesis was one of the first works of his I ever got to read myself - It’s natural for me to focus on this particular thesis in this article. 

 

“Where Shall We Begun gives  clear outline of the Progressive nature of Shi’ism and the true dynamics of Islamic thought. Generally speaking I guess most people can agree that  in truth the general concept of Islam  remains quite vague to most westerners - even within the progressive movement.

 Within the Progressive Movement people  seem to be quick in judging religion as the opium of the people, without  showing much  interest, for the concept of religion in the broader sense in general or for the concept of Islamic thought in particular.  

I think that people who sincerely study the teachings of Islamic thought in detail may happen to be surprised when the full scope of the Islamic thought is revealed. The true dynamics of Islamic thought, in general and Shi’ism as described by Dr Shariati in particular is very different   from the average stereotyped, and abstract definition of Islamic thought that is more common in the west.

 

In the aforementioned thesis, Dr. Shariati gives the reader a most dynamic view of the Shi’ist faith, and it’s social principles the thesis rightfully sheds more light, on the progressive nature of Shi’ism and identifies it as an important  driving force  which enables  the attaining of true human dignity. 

 Other than that the thesis also brings the uplifting sides of spirituality, to the fore, which  are naturally common knowledge in the Islamic Republic of Iran, yet are as good as never heard of in the west. 

The progressive dynamics of Shi’ism is appearing early on in this thesis, and I think it is clearly demonstrated in the following quote:

“All the relevant dimensions of the process.

of generating movement and awareness, 

have been adopted as the symbolic essence of Shi'ism.”  

One, thing that stays with the reader through out the thesis is the sense of clarity, and familiarity of Dr Shariati’s words. 

Dr Shariati and the Specific Characteristics of the Enlightened Muslim Culture

 After  presenting some basic characteristics of Sh’ism. Dr Shariati develops the readers understanding of the basic concept further  by also drawing up the specific characteristics of the enlightened Muslim culture:

“An enlightened Muslim, thus, should not be easily deceived. He should be fully aware 

of the fact that he has a unique culture which is neither totally spiritual, as is the 

Indian culture nor totally mystical, as is the Chinese, nor completely philosophical, as 

is the Greek, and nor entirely materialistic and technological, as is the Western 

culture His is a mixture of faith, idealism and spirituality and yet full of life and 

energy with a dominant spirit of equality and justice, the ideology that Islamic 

societies and other traditional societies of the East are in desperate need of. [...]”

 Thus in  the one and  same In the same thesis, Dr. Shariati also speaks with clarity of the social pathos that walks hand in hand with the Islamic thought:

“unlike other religions, which justify poverty, Islam condemns it”

Dr. Shariati, clarifies the dynamic concept of Islamic thought, in very few words really - and thus he  deals a definitive blow to the stereotyped view of the Muslim community as an “isolated” community, a community often portrayed as “turned away from the modern world”, and even  more importantly Dr Shariati  gets rid of any misconceptions of Islam as “an abstract school of thought - not concerned with the life of the modern human being”

  Most westerners associate Muslim fate with ignorance and/or backwardness but Dr Shariati explains in simple terms  that in fact it’s  quite the contrary.

 For Dr. Shariati   spirituality, in  Shi’ism leads not to separating the human being from the world she lives in but rather to further enlightenment, i.e. spirituality serves as a means of transport in  taking political awareness to a higher state:

 

“I, as a conscientious teacher who has risen 

from the depth of pains and experience of his people and history, hope that the 

enlightened person will reach a progressive self-awareness. For whereas our masses 

need self-awareness, our enlightened intellectuals are in need of "faith."

Spiritual Enlightenment as Dynamic Driving Force for Social Progress

Dr Shariati, clarifies that spirituality in it’s honest form is a dynamic driving force or  public motivation for social progress, and in his thesis he explains further: 

“No society will be mobilized and obtain 

its freedom merely because of the existence of class difference or tragic disparity 

between rich and poor. Poverty and class conflict may exist in a society for thousands 

of years without causing any structural transformation. Dialectic has no intrinsic 

motion. “

 Significant for Dr. Shariati is  the way he always speaks of spiritual enlightenment in direct correlation to the mature  human intellect, and likewise in correlation to social development. 

Thus Dr. Shariati reveals the progressive nature of Sh’ism. 

Shi’ism and the Quest for Knowledge and Human Development

 

For Dr Shariati, Islamic faith is always bound together with the noble quest for knowledge and furthering the cause of human development. 

Dr Shariati always encouraged the general public, and academics alike to embrace spiritual enlightenment, yet this does not contradict his consistent call for the masses to rid themselves from abstraction.  

 It serves the curious reader well to keep in mind  how Dr Shariati also criticised the negative sides of Religion with a reasoning quite  similar to that of Scientific Socialist Karl Marx.  In Where Shall We Begin, Dr. Shariati points out how (and I quote): 

“The intellectuals erroneously fought Islam and the reactionaries used it to 

“narcotize the masses and to maximize their own gains.” 

Yet before ending my article  I would just want to clarify, that his does not mean that Dr. Shariati contradicts his own reasoning presented in the above mentioned thesis.

 The  above  statement  only serves the reader as a means  to explain the Islamic attitude against the abuse of power, the same statement also explains  how Islam shuns corrupt behaviour and despotism.  i.e.  it is not to be confused with criticism of religion per se. The above statement does not contradict the endorsement of the positive effects that spiritual enlightenment can have  among the masses - mentioned earlier. 

Dr. Shariati also clarifies this misconception elsewhere in the above mentioned thesis, I think the above gives the reader the general idea.

A worthwhile read for anyone

I would like to end this article by saying I wholeheartedly recommend  reading “Where Shall We Begin” to   anyone interested learning more about the dynamics or social development - regardless if you are familiar with the concept of Islamic thought or not. 

On the whole the thesis is 23 pages long.   Contentwise the thesis never looses track of the main theme which is  give some insight of the role of spiritual enlightenment can play in society in general 

as well as further enhancing the readers understanding of the general idea of social development in society, as a whole. 

Because of the above stated, the thesis remains a worthwhile and most accessible read, to Muslims and non Muslims alike, and don’t you worry - you do not have to be an Iran expert to understand this thesis, I have Iranian roots, but I do not claim to be an expert.

There is More to the People’s Republic of Bangladesh than heavy rain, cheap commodities and George Harrison

                                                        

pictures above: 1. Former Cheif advisor in government (2007-2009) and former central bank governour in the Bangladesh Bank Dr. Fakhuruddin  Ahmed.   2. Hon Prime Minister  Her Excellency Sheikh Hasina of the People's Republic of Bangladesh. Both have made important adresses to the UN. General assembly in recent years, which deserve more attention.  

At the top we have a picture of the national flag

There is more to the People’s Republic of Bangladesh,

 than heavy rain, cheap  commodities and George Harrison

 by Jan Freidun Taravoh 30th of november 2009

Introduction: 

In the West, what is generally  known about the People’s Republic of Bangladesh? I tend to think that when most people think about Bangladesh, they  think  of either A) Heavy Rain, B) George Harrison's world famous charity concert in the 70’s and C) Poverty and Under-development

 

But there is certainly more to this fascinating country than the above.

I personally became more familiar with Bangladesh as a follower of the Look East policy of The Zimbabwean Government. Under the  auspice of  this progressive foreign policy the two independent nations have founded a dynamic partnership in many fields of society development. Like Zimbabwe, The People’s Republic of Bangladesh is an independent republic. (an independence that was achieved after years of protracted struggle.). Infrastructure wise  it is also mainly  based on agriculture and as the 16th paragraph of the constitution of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh states  “The State shall adopt effective measures to bring about a radical transformation in the rural areas through the promotion of a agricultural revolution, the provision of rural electrification, the development of cottage and other industries, and the improvement of education, communications and public health, in those areas, so as progressively to remove the disparity in the standards of living between the urban and the rural areas”

Addressing the UN. General assembly last year, the People’s Republic’s then Chief Advisor in government Dr. Fakhuruddin  Ahmed, (former central bank governor of the Bangladesh Bank)  reached out to the world community with the following message:

 “Bangladesh in the midst of a profound change, that we believe is highly relevant to people all around the world, especially those fighting corruption poverty and under development. As with any progress of change it is not without setbacks, and will take time to complete but in the end, we remain confident of our success. Our goal is to strengthen democracy in Bangladesh”

“In the end we remain confident in our success” now take special note of this  because my point is this: the general perception of Bangladesh around the world can no longer remain that of an “Orphan country” of a people unable  to make it’s own decisions. 

The Non alignment movement recognise the country as an equal member of the multilateral organisation founded on the principles of respect and peace, and co-operation based on mutual benefit. 

Considering the above it’s strange how the rest of the world, still tend to look down on the country and it’s people for no apparent reason. 

The colonial perspective remains in the west

 - but the Government of the People’s Republic have other plans

Here in the west the country Bangladesh is known more or less only for the supply of fabric, fabric which is bought by western companies way under the actual value of the particular product - and it’s a shame really. The western government strive to make the people’s republic dependant on exports and foreign trade, but  the Government of The People’s Republic have other plans.

  Recently at The World Food summit in Rome (mid November 2009) the Government of the People’s republic issued a statement as presented by Her Excellency the Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. 

The Honourable Prime Minister spoke with sincere clarity when she said.

 “Only food production alone can guarantee food security, available food must be accessible particularly to the marginalized and vulnerable. For which an equitable and fair food governance system is required at both national and international level.”

Her Excellency the Prime Minister also pointed out: “ We are striving  for fair prices for the farmers and removing bottlenecks in the marketing chain” 

  in the speech presented by The Hon. Prime Minister  effective criticism was also launched at the developed countries concerning the handling of the financial crisis of global capitalism.

“If developed countries could provide trillions of dollars to save collapsed financial markets, should they not feel an obligation to feed the starving millions?”

Speaking with clarity also on the effects on climate change Sheikh Hasina made a clear statement showing that the People of Bangladesh are not to be looked down upon,  quite the contrary they are a force to be reckoned with when it comes to  the social development of the world at large. 

considering the  long and diverse experience in agricultural development that exist in the nation - the people of Bangladesh have the means to play an active role in working for sustainable  development and food security, on the national level as well as on the international level. 

The People’s Republic of Bangladesh, is not a colony

This should be fully recognised by the international community, and Western countries must realise that The People’s Republic of Bangladesh is not a colony or a free market open for exploitation by multi national companies who seek only to acquire cheap commodities for selfish reasons.

The leaders Western powers and leaders of the Western business community thus have a moral obligation to  endorse fair trade in the region, and must trust that the people of Bangladesh themselves can decide for themselves which socio-economic measures are most beneficial in order to achieve social progress, and sustainable development in the long run.

 

The People’s Republic of Bangladesh is a sovereign state and must accordingly be treated equally within the international community and thus  receive  the same amount of respect  any country  deserves whether  big or small. 

The dynamics of Chinese society as explained by Jiang Zemin

The picture above: 

 Jiang Zemin, the former mayor of Shanghai 1984-1987 Chairman of the Communist Party of China 1989 – 2002  President of the People's Republic of China 1993-2003. Jiang also served as Chairman of the Central military comission  1989-2004  

The dynamics of Chinese society as explained by Jiang Zemin

By Jan Freidun Taravosh

30th November - 1 december 2009

Introduction: 

Jiang Zemin the former President of the  Central People’s Government of the People’s Republic of China, is according to me one of those persons of the our  world today that always seem to have something interesting to say. 

Other than being famous for  developing the concepts of Socialism with Chinese Caractheristics in the new era by the formulating of the important thought of the Three Represents, President Jiang is also famous for his academic background and for being well educated. President Jiang is educated not only in Chinese history   culture and linguistics - President Jiang is also known for having a broad  knowledge of  the history and culture  of the western hemisphere.

  

President Jiang provides a deeper understanding 

of the dynamics of development in China P.R. and beyond

On the subject of exchange of eastern and Western culture, President Jiang held a lecture on the intriguing  subject Enhance Mutual Understanding and Build Stronger Ties of Friendship and Cooperation   On the occasion of visiting the united states in 1997, this lecture was held at Harvard university. In this speech President Jiang explained: 

“Mutual understanding is the basis for state-to-state relations. Without it, it would be impossible for countries to build trust and promote cooperation with each other. Since the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and the United States, the exchanges and mutual understanding between our two peoples have broadened and deepened steadily. However, this is not enough. To promote the development of China-U.S. relations, China needs to know the United States better, and vice versa.”

Thus with these words President Jiang gave the listeners a dynamic perspective on the neccisty of Mutual understanding As Jaing continued his speech, having already laid a great foundation on the basis of state to state relations he came over to the part of the speech where he in a very humble, open nature, described the correlation between culture and human development. President Jiang spoke with openness and was also willing to share with the audience the essence of  the rich experience of the Chinese people. At the same time President Jiang to the opportunity to describe how the perception and dynamics culture is diverse and multi-facetted:

“Sunlight is composed of seven colors; so is our world full of colors and splendor. Every country and every nation has its own historical and cultural traditions, strong points and advantages. We should respect and learn from each other and draw upon others' strong points to offset one's own deficiencies for achieving common progress. In the prolonged course of development, China has formed its fine historical and cultural traditions, which have been either developed or discarded with the changes of the times and social progress. These traditions have exerted a profound impact on the values and way of life of the Chinese people, and on China's road of development today. I would like to make the following observations, which I hope will help you to know China better.” 

I choose to quote the above as the The above makes it clear that social development and human relations in general is  never a one way road - which is usually the most common misconception concerning the true nature  People’s Republic of China in the West.

President Jiang continued to explain the particular characteristics of Chinese culture and society in the following passage:  

“First, the tradition of solidarity and unity. The Chinese nation is a big family composed of 56 nationalities. Since time immemorial, people of all nationalities have established closely-knitted political, economic, and cultural links and joined hands in developing the vast land of our country. China became vast unified country more than 2,000 years ago. The deep-rooted Chinese culture has become a strong bond for ethnic harmony and national unity. Solidarity and unity have been inscribed in the hearts of the Chinese people as part of their national identity. Despite occasional division in the Chinese history, ethnic harmony and national unity have remained the main stream in the history of the Chinese nation, and an important guarantee for China's development and progress. The founding of the People's Republic marked an unprecedented great unity of the Chinese nation. A new type of relationship of equality, solidarity, and mutual assistance between different nationalities has been established. People of all nationalities enjoy full rights and freedoms provided for by the law. In places where there is a high concentration of minority-nationality people, regional autonomy is in practice. All these have laid a solid political foundation for consolidated national unity.”

As noted in the above statement, the essence of unity is a caractherised not only by togetherness but also by  dynamic diversity. This concept reflects itself in all feilds of chinese society in different ways, and serves as proof that stereotyped view of “Red China” as a one sided,  society is most inaccurate. 

President Jiang also took time to explain how  to cherish independence does not have to mean isolation:

“Second, the tradition of maintaining independence. Our ancestors always regarded the spirit of maintaining independence as the foundation of a nation. China has all along maintained its cultural tradition without letup in the history of several thousand years. In modern times, the frequent bullying and humiliation by imperialist powers once weakened China. However, after 100 years of struggle, China has stood up again as a giant. This fully testifies to the indestructible strength of the spirit of the Chinese people. Today, in finding a road to development suited to us, we will proceed from our own national conditions to address the issue of how to conduct economic construction and political and cultural advancement without blindly copying other countries' models. In handling international affairs, we decide our positions and policies from an independent approach. The Chinese people cherish its friendship and cooperation with other countries, as well as their right to independence they have won through protracted struggles.”

The vast dynamics of China'S social development, diverse culture and society building is hard to sum up in all it’s angles in one article. This was never my aim with this article - however I hope this article spurs the reader to see beyond the stereotyped view of the people’s Republic of China which is all too common in the west.

What about the LAO PEOPLE’S DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC?

Picture above: FLAG OF THE LAO PDR 

What about the LAO PEOPLE’S DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC?

By Jan Freidun Taravosh November 30th 2009

In the west, the nation known as Lao People’s Democratic Republic, is simply know as Laos. the type of government in LAO PDR is a genuine People’s Democracy, but it is often written off without much knowledge as a “Communist Dictatorship” in the west.

 For some reason, even within the progressive movement people tend to accept the demeaning portraying of this nation as nothing more than a small developing country that is considered poor, and if people show any interest in the history of Lao PDR, it’s taking note of the fact that the country was heavily bombed during the U.S. invasion of Indochina. To be frank - It seems no one has cared much about what has happened in this country since the mid 70’s and it’s nothing but baffling to me. When the anti imperialist movements are more than happy to endorse any positive development in Cuba, then why should the people of Lao PDR be treated any differently? Really?

Dr. Ty Phommasack vice minister of agriculture in the people’s government attended the world food summit in Rome some weeks ago. and he presented the following statement which I wish to quote.

“Ladies and gentlemen, 

 

The agriculture and forestry sector is the main contributor to the GDP and overall 

economic development, and in particular to the government’s food production and 

poverty reduction targets. 

 

Lao PDR’s agriculture was impacted by the global downturn, especially supply of key 

imported inputs require for agriculture and encountered relatively severe disasters in 

2008 and in 2009 which had damaged a large number of irrigation scheme and destroyed 

agriculture areas of approximately 42,000 ha. However, agriculture and fisheries production has recorded satisfactory performance in the last few years. This is, to a great 

extent, due to gradually increasing and well-programmed investment in the agriculture 

and rural development sector. It is estimated that total rice production will reach 3.2 

metric tons in 2009 and thereby meet its rice requirement and self-sufficiency. “

despite the unfavourable conditions described above for this landlocked country, the reaching of self sufficency, is a great achievement!. Lao PDR might be seen as a poor country by western standards, but how many of the western (capitalist) nations have ever strived for self sufficiency or sincerely cared about agricultural and Rural development. In Lao PDR agriculture is the life blood of the nation, in western countries such as the Kingdom of Sweden, good soil is wasted for golf courts while the general populace become increasingly dependant on food imports for no reason. The people of Lao PDR, are aware that development is no easy task, yet they highly esteem their independence and sovereignty, and they get together to make the best of what they have got.

 

this is a source of inspiration , if you ask me. Despite various setbacks the people are united in a common vision to work together for the development of the independent society.  Dr. Sisoulith, the deputy prime minister of Lao PDR, who delivered a statement to the 63 session of the UN General Assembly, last year explained: The Lao PDR continues to enjoy a solid political and social order. Thus our socio-economic has registered significant achievements as reflected in high and sustained GDP growth. Notwithstanding these achievements the the Lao PDR still faces impediments. rising oil prices, inflation and a global economic slowdown all stand in the way of our path to economic prosperity. This year, we are also experiencing a severe flood, inflicting huge material loss nation-wide. Yet despite all of this, by improving the quality of basic infrastructure, human resources and co-operation with international partners we are determined to pursue our twin strategies of poverty eradication and regional integration. At this pace we hope to extricate our country from the shackles of underdevelopment by the year 2020. “  

Hopefully the above clears up a few myths about Lao PDR to people who have not been aware of the true dynamics of the developments in the country, and I hope this article will help people interested in social development to see the Lao PDR in a different light. one should respect the sovereignty of the Lao PDR, and stop seeing it as a helpless orphan country, which it obviously is not. one thing it certainly is - a progressive country in development- this is true. The Lao PDR is by no means that “isolated hell on earth” as often portrayed in western media - more over it is in fact a popular tourist destination. The nations capital Vientiane  also has The Swedish bakery - I would go there if I had the money.

The plight of the Palestinians is out in the open: Why won’t the western powers within international community react?

The plight of the Palestinians is out in the open: 

Why won’t the western powers within  international community react? 

By Jan Freidun Taravosh  30th of November 2009

I find no reason that accurately makes me convinced of why the international community should not act with more commitment concerning the Palestinian question. 

It is not like people all over the world are uninformed on the matter, quite the contrary: 

Let us for instance, take a look at the clear statement made by Mr Abbas, The current PLO chairman to the United nations general assembly last year:

“As for attacks by Israeli settlers, on Palestinian civilians, these have become daily occurrences, where the law of the jungle, and the methods of racial terrorism prevail.”

This account made by Chairman Abbas, should not be anything that would be difficult for anyone to relate too. people and leaders of the east as well as the west acted without delay to put pressure on the apartheid regimes of Southern Africa , in the past, and despite pressure from the non Alignment movement, the western powers chooses not to act. The plight of the Palestinians is out in the open, it’s no secret.

A matter of paramount importance, for peace loving people worldwide

The subject was up for discussion once more at the 64th session of the General Assembly. I.R.I President DR. Ahmadinejad  spoke with clarity on the matter:

 “How can one imagine that the inhuman policies in Palestine may continue; to 

force the entire population of a country out of their homeland for more than 60 years 

by resorting to force and coercion; to attack them with all types of arms and even 

prohibited weapons; to deny them of their legitimate right of self-defense, while much 

to the chagrin of the international community calling the occupiers as the peace- 

lovers, and portraying the victims as terrorists. How can the crimes of the occupiers against 

defenseless women and children and destruction of their homes, farms, hospitals and schools be supported 

unconditionally by certain governments, and at the same time, the oppressed men and 

women be subject to genocide and heaviest economic blockade being denied of their 

basic needs, food, water and medicine. “

Now for those people who shrug their shoulders, those who are contemplating that this is only an issue for the Muslim community. - Dr. Ahmadinejad dispelled such misconceptions by declaring the following in the same statement: 

“In my opinion, we have several important agendas in front of us. 

The Secretary- General and the UN General Assembly can take the lead by undertaking necessary 

measures for the fulfilment of our shared goals on the basis of: 

1 - Restructuring the United Nations in order to transform this world body to 

an efficient and fully democratic organization, capable of playing an 

impartial, equitable, and effective role in the international relations; 

reforming the structure of the Security Council, specially by abolishing the 

discriminatory privilege of veto right; restoration of the inalienable rights 

of the Palestinian people by organizing a referendum and free elections in 

Palestine in order to prepare a conducive ground for all Palestinian 

populations, including Muslims, Christians and Jews to live together in 

peace and harmony; putting an end to all types of interferences in the 

affairs of Iraq, Afghanistan, Middle East, and in all countries in Africa, 

Latin America, Asia and Europe. 

As our great Prophet said, a government may survive with blasphemy,

 but never with oppression.”

 They point of the above is clear - one does not have to be a Muslim scholar, to understand the the Palestinian quest for peace and self - determination is justified, one does not have to be a Muslim scholar to understand that peace is beneficial to all mankind. 

Yet Islamophobia seems to scare away most westerners from looking at the matter at hand with sincerity.

The same can not be said about the African community: On the matter of Palestinians right for self determination  the Namibian President Comrade Pohamba said the following to the 63rd session of the assembly. “The people of Palestine have an inalienable right to self­determination.  “Namibia is concerned 

about the lack of progress in negotiations on the question of Palestine.  We call for the immediate 

implementation of all United Nations resolutions on Palestine and the establishment of an 

independent state of Palestine, living side­by­side with Israel.” 

 Now take note: The SWAPO led, Government of Namibia is not an Islamic Government, Comrade Pohamba is neither an Arab nor a Muslim scholar, yet he is nevertheless as passionate about the question of self determination as Chairman   Abbas or Dr Ahmadinejad.  

 Thus, the Palestinian question remains a matter of paramount importance to all peace loving people world wide.

Solidarity with Palestine within the NAM

it is no surprise that the Zimbabwean Government headed by Comrade Mugabe welcomed  former PLO Chairman Arafat with open arms on in 2001 as reported in the magazine  the people’s daily, in may 2001.

 The two liberation movements PLO and ZANU have A fraternal bond dating back for decades - and more over Zimbabwe is an active member in  The NAM Palestine Committee, as is the People’s Republic of Bangladesh, The Republic of Cuba, The People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria, the Republic of India, Senegal and Indonesia. 

 The ANC led Republic of South Africa, stated clearly in their election manifesto of 2009 their pledge to: “Commit to the peaceful resolution of all conflicts in Africa, 

the Middle East and rest of the world. We support a two state 

solution as a model of peace between Israel and Palestine.” 

To be frank, The ANC is only underlining  a decade old position of solidarity with the Palestinian people  which in it self is nothing new to them. Considering the fact the South Africans, like the Zimbabweans  share a revolutionary history of struggle against apartheid  For them it’s  only natural.

Solidarity with Palestine within the African Union

 In fact the entire African Union is not at all shy in condemning the apartheid policies of the present day Israeli regime, and rightfully so. In other words let me put it this way:

 What is natural for every progressive, humanist, and peace loving  person in the post colonial world, seems very distant to the self serving narrow-minded and islamophobic western establishment. In the west the bizarre reasoning of portraying victims of oppression as no good, savage terrorists is a common tale. The Apartheid regime in Israel is hence used as convenient tool in trying to maintain imperialist dominance in the Middle East.

What I am saying The question is not about “raising awareness about the conflict” any longer, we are far beyond that today - it’s about demystifying the shameful policies of apartheid in occupied Palestine, where to speak with the words of Chairman Abbas  “the law of the jungle, and the methods of racial terrorism prevail”

In Conclussion:

 I think Leaders of the western powers should act against The Israeli settlers ,  In the same way in  as they acted against the settler governments of Southern Africa. i.e. they should exercise decisive  pressure on the Zionist regime. They should also rid themselves from Islamophobia, only then can they look at the conflict without prejudice and fully realise the plight of the Palestinian masses. 

In this article I have tried to describe how The Palestinian masses self determination and lasting peace is a just cause and how it is not a matter   of interest only to the Muslim community,  lasting peace in the middle east is beneficial to all mankind.

The Estranged Attitudes Towards the Muslim Community in the West are Uncalled for

Picture above: a photo of Ali Khameni

The Estranged Attitudes Towards the Muslim Community in the West are Uncalled for

By Jan Freidun Taravosh November 30th

Introduction: I am of the opinion that in the west, the misconceptions concerning Islamic thought creates an estranged attitude towards the Muslim Community which I think is un called for even within the progressive movement.

 The greatest prejudice among the western establishment concerning Islam in today world has more to do with how Islam has always been and remains a reliable force for the abolishment of imperialism and colonialism and exploitive behaviour.

  Now - with that said - Much of the Islamophobic attitudes which remain in western society has more to do with islams anti capitalist and anti corruption sentiments Thus many  profound writings of Muslims scholars, are either hard to find or ridiculed in the west . or in a few cases, they are being studied half heatedly,  more or less for novelty purposes.  

Western prejudice against Muslim scholars  a priori 

Now what causes me frustration is that lots of prejudice, harsh words, and rude statements are being hurled at Muslim scholars,  simply only because they happen to be Muslim. 

The western media is narrow-minded in this sense, as they try to portrait the Muslim world as isolated and  as ignorant, and anti scientific.

Such  statements,  described above tell the reader more about the  generally limited understanding of Islamic thought in the west than anything else. It doesn’t tell you much about the actual teachings of Islamic thought.   More over I think that isolated, anti scientific description is in fact more apt to the history of western colonialism which conquered nations hand in hand with the Catholic Church. (during the dark ages in western Europe, the Islamic world encouraged,  science culture and stood up for human dignity, and still does this). 

The western establishments freight of allow people to think for themselves effects the general populace  in judging Muslim scholars a priori, I.E. even before they even get a chance to acquaint themselves with the general concept of Islamic thought. 

To have a clear example of the above, Let us look at the stereotyped western view of Imam Sayyid Ali Khamenei.

Who is Ali Khamenei? 

 

Ali Khamenei is The Islamic Republic of Iran's former President and elected Supreme spiritual leader in the revolutionary council since 1990 (taking office after the passing of  Ruhollah Khomeini)- In the west he is known for opposing the U.S and more or less that’s it. In the west, his points of view , his degree of knowledge, experiences and literary scholarships - it’s is not important, not worth even considering.

 The western liberalists they talk often about openness and embracing different cultures. But this is nothing more than empty words - to them the Islamic Republic is nothing more than “an axis of evil” type of country, and with that said, the western establishment are trying to scare people away, from studying Islamic thought, and for what reason? The claim is that Islamic scholars pose a threat the existence of  the western life style, because they “impose a negative influence on “our way of living” (whatever that means)

 Yet to be frank, the only thing treathening the existence of the western lifestyle is the negative sides of the western lifestyle itself.

 and more over  - You don’t see, imam Khamenei, occupying Afghanistan or Palestine or Iraq, you don’t find him endorsing excessive use of natural resources for selfish reasons, and you won’t find him rejoicing over ruinous commercialism - and you won’t find him seeking world supremacy.

 Now I am not the one to tell you if you should agree with the Imam or not, yet all I am trying to say is that before you decide perhaps you should try to listen to what he actually says, free from all prejudice, and when we get down to what is really the core of Islamic thought, I am certain you will find nothing to be afraid of - perhaps even you will have found a new outlook at life and the world, which wasn’t that strange after all.   

“One of the most pitiful events of our days is the distorted concept of Tawhid; and 

this should be regarded as a tragedy by all those who have a say in emancipation 

of man, because of the bearing of this distortation on the common and most 

fundamental concept of all the religions, as there cannot be found any other 

concept in the expanse of history that could have been so efficacious in the course 

of emancipation of man besides its being a harbinger of redemption for the 

oppressed masses. 

In history, as far as we have known, the divinety prophecies were movements 

momentous towards the benefit of mankind, freeing the oppressed ones against 

atrocities, discriminations and encroachment”

The above quoted was an extract from Ali Khamenei’s essay “The Essence of Tahwid”  to be found on the web-site Khamenei.Ir.

 Of course now of course I must admit, that I have both Muslim and Iranian roots, but read the text once again then, and you will find that, you don’t have to be particularly educated either in Iranian politics, culture or Islamic thought to understand the main concept of the above stated. Islam by the way teaches that the prophets, were modest, regular human - beings, so with an open  pious frame of mind it’s easy to understand that the above stated concept is accessible to anyone.